Pueblo of Isleta website: www.isletapueblo.com (2022)

Volume 17 Issue 11

Isleta Pueblo News

Pueblo of Isleta website: www.isletapueblo.com

Governor’s Report

Ma-gu-wam,

I hope this newsletter finds you all well and

in good spirits. We are moving forward

however, still battling the COVID-19 virus.

Fortunately, the positive cases have been

low within the community. The COVID

team has the new COVID booster shot

available and taking appointments. Please

call the COVID line at 505-869-9720. As

we enter the fall and winter months, the

Flu season is upon us, and the Flu vaccine

is available at the Isleta Health Center.

Please schedule your appointment with the

Health Center staff at 505-869-3200.

I attended the National Tribal Health

Conference in Washington, DC in October.

Many topics were discussed about

healthcare and services provided. Many

nations have issues with Behavioral Health

and substance abuse. I want to report,

services the Pueblo of Isleta provides is

very good in comparison to other nations.

Our crisis team made up of Isleta Social

Services, B’ee K’oo-ee Health Services,

and Isleta Police Department are services

that other tribes and nations are looking to

build with in their communities. I had a

discussion with an individual from Alaska

Health Services who has developed a

virtual reality program for individuals who

are struggling with fentanyl abuse. It was

November 2022

very interesting to see the affects within

the brain and the physical disconnect that

happens. This program is a new concept

however; this program may be good with

the services provided here at the pueblo

such as the Ripple effect program and the

Healing to Wellness Court. We will meet in

the future with the Alaska services to see if

we can get these services to the pueblo.

The mountains are open again. We had a

rockslide with all the wonderful rain we

had. The rockslide has been cleared up

and all the roads are open. Just a reminder

that the Deer Hunts are happening in

the month of November on the weekends.

Woodcutting and wood hauling will not

be allowed during the scheduled hunts in

the mountains. Wood and burn permits

are available at the Governor’s Office,

Wildland Office at the Complex and the

Police Substation on the west side. Please

call Isleta Police Dispatch for the current

burn day status and notification that you

will be burning.

1st Lieutenant Governor Lucero along

with staff from the Isleta Head Start and

Department of Education are attending

the total immersion initiative which

was established in Hawaii. Lt. Lucero

has met with Jemez Pueblo which had

implemented a similar program that

the Hawaiian community has put in

place to continue their language. Jemez

Pueblo staff has initiated this process

within their community and have shown

progress within their community members

learning their language. As we assess the

language situation within our community

and understanding that total immersion

is how we have learned our language, we

feel that this is an avenue that needs to be

researched.

2nd Lt. Governor Sanchez was invited

to speak at the 67th Annual NM Water

Conference in Las Cruces, October 25-26,

2022. In the session topic “A Reflection

Between Indigenous Communities and

Their Water Resources,” he discussed his

involvement in water issues for Isleta in

his position. This will be 2nd Lt. Governor

Sanchez’ sixth time participating as a

speaker and/or conference moderator in

the Annual NM Water Conference. You

can find his presentations at the NM Water

Resources Research Institute webpage

under Water Conference Proceedings.

May the creator bless every one of you with

good health and a long life.

Haw-wooh,

Vernon B. Abeita

Governor

TRIBAL COUNCIL

Early Voting for the General Election shall be

held Monday, November 21st and Tuesday,

November 22nd, 2022 from 1p.m. to 7p.m. daily,

at the Isleta Recreation Center Gymnasium.

General Election Voting for Governor and Tribal

Council will be held on Saturday, November

26th, 2022 from 8 a.m. to 7 p.m. at the Isleta Rec

Center Gymnasium.

Curbside Service will be provided for the Voting

events noted above for the elderly, disabled, and

COVID-19 positive individuals in designated

areas. All Voters must wear a mask.

(If you participate in Early Voting, you do not

have to return to vote on November 26th, 2022)

PUEBLO OF ISLETA

VETERANS ASSOCIATION

Pueblo of Isleta Veterans Association/Veterans

Service Officers

Due to lack of interest, the Pueblo of Isleta

Veterans Association Veterans Service Officers

will no longer be at the Isleta Health Clinic

on Tuesdays. Instead, beginning on Thursday,

November 3, 2022, the POIVA/VSO's will be

at the POIVA Veterans Center located in Los

Charcos from 10 AM - 2 PM. We will be there

every Thursday.

If you have any questions on Veterans issues,

i.e., Benefits, Health, Pensions, Search for

Military Records, Funerals (flags, headstones),

etc., we will be there to help. If you have it, bring

your DD-214. If anything, just come by and have

coffee with us.

For any questions, please call Ulysses at 505264-4110, Marcus at 505-514-7332, or

Fred at 505-573-7332.

Page 2

Isleta Pueblo News

LETTER FROM THE EDITOR

DEADLINE for December Newsletter articles is

set for Wednesday, November 16, 2022, at 4:30 pm.

Articles may be dropped off at the Library or emailed to

Nathaniel.Lujan@isletapueblo.com. Should you email

your article, expect a confirmation email. If you do not

receive a confirmation email, odds are it never made it to

me and then it’s time to panic, so call Nate at 505.869.9808.

People who wish to submit an article or flyer are responsible

for generating their own article or flyer. Should you need

help, please call the Library at 505.869.9808 and set up a

date and time to sit down with a Library staff member who

will help you throughout the process. The Library will NOT

accept notes dropped off at the Library or information over

the phone to generate your article.

PROBATES need to be published in the Newsletter for

two consecutive months. Probates are considered court

documents, therefore, all submitters must provide: 1)

Name of Deceased, 2) Date of Deceased 3) Court Case #

and 4) Date of Court Date. A Probate form can be found on

the Newsletter Archive page at http://www.isletapueblo.

com/newsletters.html .

CLASSIFIED ADS: The new administration has requested

that the Newsletter start a Classified Ad section for Tribal

members selling land, houses, mobile homes, vehicles, and

farm equipment. Leasing of houses and mobile homes will

be accepted. Smaller items which can be sold at the local

flea markets or weekly yard sales will NOT be accepted.

Currently, this service is FREE to Tribal members. Land,

houses, and mobile homes must be within the reservation

boundaries. Ads must meet the 160 character limit. Ads

that exceed the 160 characters will NOT be submitted into

the Newsletter. A single picture June be submitted with

the ad. Submitters of classified ads are responsible for

generating their own ads as this is a FREE service.

As a reminder, Tribal business owners may submit a small

flyer at no charge. Like the classified ads, business owners

are responsible for generating their own flyers as this is a

FREE service.

Classified ads and business flyers will be posted no

more than two consecutive months. In the event where

the Newsletter may exceed the 24-page limit, classified

ads and business flyers will be “bumped” for newsletter

articles. Again, this is a FREE service for Tribal members.

The Isleta Newsletter is owned and operated by the Pueblo

of Isleta. Therefore, the Governor of the Pueblo of Isleta

has the final say of all articles and contents within the

Isleta Newsletter.

For additional questions, you may call the Library and

speak with Nate or Diane at 505.869.9808.

Thank you,

Nathaniel Lujan

Newsletters may be found at the fifteen distribution

locations listed below. Remember, Digital copies of the

Newsletter may be obtained from the Newsletter archive

at http://www.isletapueblo.com/newsletters.html

The fifteen Newsletter distribution locations are:

1.

2.

3.

4.

5.

6.

7.

8.

9.

10.

11.

12.

13.

14.

15.

TR 2 & TR 22 - Chical SE of Community Hall

TR 10 - Behind the old 47 Sales

TR 1 & TR 5 – Ranchitos / Bosque Farms

Reservations Line

Ranchitos Park

Post Office - Big Tree

TR 82 & TR 84 - Teller Road

TR 78 & TR 82 - Carlos Trujillo Sr.

TR 90 @ Y - CF Padilla

Mouse Town Park –

Health Center – South end of Health

Center Parking lot

Library Sunlight & Moonlight Intersection

TR 6 - 47 Intersection

TR 12 - 47 & 147 intersection (Old Smoke & Save)

TR 71 & TR 54 @ Y - Holiday Robot / Paved Road /

Railroad Tracks

TR 45 & TR 40 @ Y - Tata Mel (POI Signage)

November 2022

November 2022

My name is Jonna Toledo and I work out of the Goodwill

store in Los Lunas. What I do is help people find jobs in

the community. This is a FREE service that Goodwill offers.

I do work by appointment. The first appointment I just get

the information to help with your job search. Example: What

you are looking for, your availability, experience, etc…we

do meet weekly until you find a job. Just because you find

a job does not mean we are finished! I will stay in touch

with you about once a month for 3 months just to make

sure everything is going well. We want to make sure you

are being treated well and that the job is a good fit for you.

I can give job leads, help fill out applications electronically,

make resumes, and we can also practice interviewing skills

so you feel comfortable in an interview. I do know lots of

hiring managers in the area to help set up interviews. We

participate in job fairs as well as organize them and set them

up at Goodwill in Albuquerque and Los Lunas. Because

we are a non profit there is no charge for this service. It

is FREE to the community. Not a lot of people realize that

Goodwill does FREE services because they are not really

advertised. They just know that the store is a good place to

go and get good deals on merchandise. It doesn’t matter

what type of job you are wanting, I can help! There are

several different fields in the area including administrative,

custodial/janitorial, retail, daycare, eldercare, warehousing,

production, retail and food services. Soon landscaping and

outdoor type positions will be opening up. Please contact if

you need help. It is always my pleasure to help with your job

search. Just call me to set up an appointment!

Thank you!

Isleta Pueblo News

Page 3

Isleta Pueblo News

Page 4

November 2022

Job Postings

Visit us online at

http://www.isleta.com/career-opportunities.aspx

Fax: 505-244-8232

OUR LOCATION

Isleta Resort and Casino is located 7 minutes south of downtown Albuquerque at Interstate 25 and Hwy 47, exit 215. The Human Resources office can be

found on the east side of the building through the Employee Entrance doors.

November 2022

Isleta Pueblo News

Page 5

Higher Education Reminder

If you are thinking of attending school in the Spring of 2023 for

a certificate, associate’s or bachelor’s degree, be sure to fill out

the Pueblo of Isleta Higher Education application by November

1, 2022 (11:59pm). You can find information on our webpage,

to include our policies: https://www.isletapueblo.com/tribalprograms/educational-services/isleta-higher-education/

(Note: Students who applied for the full academic year (20222023) do not need to apply again for Spring. These students

need to submit supporting documents by January 15, 2023)

Or you can fill out the application

using the following link or QR Code:

Department of Education Scholarship

Application - Formstack

If you have questions or need

assistance, please do not hesitate to

call our office at 505-869-9790.

E-Cigarettes:

Things Everyone Should Know

Stephanie Barela | Isleta Health Educator | 869-4479

From Journeyworks Publishing

Nicotine in E-Cigarettes is Addictive

•

Most e-cigarettes have nicotine, just like regular

cigarettes and other tobacco products. Nicotine is

very addictive, once you start it is very hard to stop.

Nicotine Poisoning Risk

•

Nicotine is a poison that can KILL.

•

There are no rules for safety labels or child

proofing on e-cigarettes or the liquid refill packs, which

can really put children and pets at risk.

Chemicals in E-Cigarettes Can Harm Your Health

•

Some e-cigarette liquids have toxins such as

antifreeze and other chemicals that are may cause

cancer.

E-Cigarettes are Not Regulated

•

Studies have shown nicotine is in some

e-cigarettes that claim to be nicotine-free. People who

buy them do not know what they are really getting.

Health Effects are Not Known

•

E-cigarettes are very new and no one really

knows how harmful they are.

•

Long term studies on the health effects have not

been done.

•

There is no proof that the vapor is safe for

the people smoking, or for those who breathe the

secondhand vapor.

•

E-cigarettes contain nicotine, which changes

your heart rate and raises your blood pressure.

Can E-Cigarettes Help you Quit Smoking?

•

People who sell e-cigarettes claim they can help

a person stop smoking, but there is no proof this is

true.

•

In fact, some studies suggest they may keep

smokers hooked.

•

They may also cause people who have quit

smoking to start again.

•

E-Cigarettes are not regulated, so no one really

knows if they are a safe quitting aid.

•

Nicotine is NOT harmless.

•

Studies show it may increase problems with

diabetes.

•

Nicotine replacement therapy (NRT) has been

proven to help people stop smoking. NRT includes

nicotine patches, inhaler, nasal spray, lozenges and

gum.

You may be eligible to receive nicotine replacement

therapy from the Isleta Health Center Pharmacy if

you attend the “Thinking About Quitting” Program.

To learn more about the quit smoking program, “Thinking About

Quitting”, please contact the Isleta Health Center’s Health Educator.

Stephanie Barela at 869-4479

Page 6

Isleta Pueblo News

November 2022

Pueblo of Isleta Career Opportunities

Position Posting

Office Location

Closing Date

ACTIVITIES COORDINATOR

Elder Center

10/31/2022

ACCOUNTANT Treasury Open Until Filled

ADMINISTRATIVE ASSISTANT I

Department of Education

Open Until Filled

ADMINISTRATIVE ASSISTANT I

Recreation Center

Open Until Filled

ADMINISTRATIVE ASSISTANT II

Tribal Administration

Open Until Filled

ADMINISTRATIVE ASSISTANT II

Elder Center

Open Until Filled

AGRICULTURAL IRRIGATION TECHNICIAN

Agricultural Division

Open Until Filled

BOSQUE RESTORATION TECHNICIAN

Natural Resources

Open Until Filled- Within Only

BOSQUE AND RIVERINE RESTORATION MANAGER

Natural Resources

Open Until Filled

BUS DRIVER (Part Time)

Head Start

Open Until Filled

BUSINESS MANAGER II

Public Works

Open Until Filled

CARPENTER I, II or Ill (3 Positions)

Housing Authority

Open Until Filled

CERTIFIED CODER

Health Services

Open Until Filled

CERTIFIED POLICE OFFICER

Police Department

Open Until Filled

CHILD CARE PROVIDER

Head Start

Open Until Filled

CLINICAL THERAPIST

Health Services

Open Until Filled

COMMUNITY HEALTH NURSE

Health Services

Open Until Filled

COMMUNITY SERVICE WORKER COORDINATOR

Tribal Courts

10/31/2022

COMPUTER IT SPECIALIST

Department of Education

Open Until Filled

COMPLIANCE INSPECTOR SUPERVISOR

Gaming Regulatory

Open Until Filled

COOK I

Elder Center

Open Until Filled

COOK I

Head Start

Open Until Filled

CUSTODIAN

Public Works

Open Until Filled

DIRECTOR, CONSTRUCTION OPERATIONS

Construction Operations

Open Until Filled

DIRECTOR, PUBLIC HEALTH SERVICES

Health Services

10/20/2022

EMT INTERMEDIATE

Health Services

Open Until Filled

EMT INTERMEDIATE- PRN

Health Services

Open Until Filled

ENVIRONMENTAL MANAGER / LAND

MANAGEMENT PLANNER

Natural Resources

Open Until Filled

FACILITIES WORKER

Head Start

Open Until Filled

FARM EQUIPMENT OPERATOR

Conservation

10/21/2022 - Within only

GROUNDS KEEPER

C-Stores

Open Until Filled

GROUNDS MAINTENANCE WORKER

Public Works

Open Until Filled

HEAD START STAFF ASSISTANT

Head Start

Open Until Filled

HEALTH INFORMATION CLERK

Health Services

Open Until Filled

HIGHWAY SAFETY POLICE OFFICER

Police Department

Open Until Filled

HOME CARE ATTENDANT

Elder Center

Open Until Filled

IN-HOME SERVICES PROGRAM MANAGER

Elder Center

10/31/2022

INSTRUCTIONAL COORDINATOR

Department of Education

Open Until Filled -Within Only

INVESTIGATOR

Police Department

Open Until Filled

IRRIGATION SUPERVISOR

Natural Resources

Open Until Filled

JR. SYSTEMS ADMINISTRATOR

MIS

Open Until Filled

LIFEGUARD

Parks & Recreation

Open Until Filled

MAINTENANCE TECHNICIAN

Public Works

Open Until Filled

MAINTENANCE TECHNICIAN

Housing Authority

Open Until Filled

NATURAL RESOURCES MANAGER

Natural Resources

Open Until Filled

OPTOMETRIST ASSISTANT

Health Services

10/31/2022

PARKS & MAINTENANCE WORKER

Parks & Recreation

Open Until Filled

PERSONAL CARE SERVICE AIDE (2 Positions)

Elder Center

Open Until Filled-Within Only

PHYSICIAN

Health Center

Open Until Filled

PLUMBER

Housing Authority

Open Until Filled

POLICE CADET

Police Department

10/31/2022

POLICE CADET - OPEN SPACE (2 Positions)

Police Department Open Space

10/31/2022

POLICE OFFICER I - CERTIFIED

Police Department Open Space

Open Until Filled-Within Only

POLICE SERGEANT

Police Department

Open Until Filled

PRE K-12 EDUCATION COORDINATOR

Department of Education

Open Until Filled

PROCUREMENT ASSISTANT

Procurement

Open Until Filled

PURCHASED/REFERRED CARE MANAGER

Health Services

11/03/2022

RANGELAND MANAGEMENT SUPERVISOR

Natural Resources

Open Until Filled

RANGELAND MANAGEMENT TECHNICIAN

Natural Resources

Open Until Filled

RECORDS CLERK

Tribal Administration

Open Until Filled

REGISTERED NURSE

Health Services

Open Until Filled

SALES ASSOCIATE

C-Stores

Open Until Filled

SECURITY OFFICER

Police Department

Open Until Filled

SEPTIC TRUCK DRIVER

Public Works

Open Until Filled

SHIFT LEAD

C-Stores

Open Until Filled

SHIFT LEAD

C-Stores

Open Until Filled

TIWA LANGUAGE EDUCATION ASSISTANT

Department of Education

Open Until Filled

UTILITY FOREMAN

Public Works

10/18/2022

VETERAN SUPPORT SERVICE MEMBER

Elder Center

Open Until Filled -Within Only

WATER RESOURCES MANAGER

Water Resources

Open Until Filled

WATER RESOURCES SPECIALIST

Water Resources

Open Until Filled

W-WW APPRENTICE - W-WW OPERATOR IV

Public Works

Open Until Filled

November 2022

Isleta Pueblo News

Page 7

Mental Health Awareness

Orion Zuni, Experiential Educator

Isleta Behavioral Health Services

(505) 869-5482

“You don’t have to struggle in silence. You can be

Un-silent. You can live well with a mental health

condition, as long as you open up to somebody

about it.”

~Demi Lovato

Mental Health Awareness was established to bring

attention to the importance of mental health and

wellness in American lives, and to celebrate recovery

from mental health illness. Although we may not

realize it, mental health is an essential aspect of a

person’s overall health.

What is mental health?

Mental health is focused on our emotional,

psychological, and social well-being. It is very impactful

to the way we think, feel, and act. Mental health is

very important at every stage in life, from childhood

and adolescence through adulthood into our elder

years. It helps determine how we handle stress, relate

to others, and when making choices. Throughout our

lives we may face mental health problems that could

impact our thinking, mood, and behavior.

There are many factors that can contribute to mental

health problems, and could include:

•

Life experiences, such as abuse or trauma

•

Family history of mental health problems

•

Biological factors, such as genes or brain

chemistry

Mental health problems affect everyone and are very

common within our community. Typically, mental

health problems are clinically diagnosable and are

products of our experiences, biology, psychology

and social factors. There are many various types

of treatments for mental health problems and are

dependent on the individual. Treatments can include

therapies (talk, trauma, EMDR, etc), medication, or

both depending on the individual’s needs that will

target specific mental health problems.

While it is important to consider mental health as a

part of our overall health and wellbeing, it still holds a

lot of stigma behind it. Many people with mental health

problems can be highly productive members of our

community. You probably know someone who struggles

with mental health problems but does not show it. Even

very young children may show early warning signs of

mental health concerns. Unfortunately, less than half

of children and adolescents with diagnosable mental

health problems receive the treatment they need.

Mental health support early in a child’s life can help

before problems interfere with other developmental

needs.

While there are many factors that play into mental

health problems, there are also positive ways of

maintaining positive mental health and can include:

•

Getting professional help if you need it

•

Connecting with others

•

Getting active physically

•

Helping others

•

Maintaining a healthy sleep schedule

•

Developing healthy coping skills

Positive mental health allows us to realize our full

potential, cope with the stress of everyday life, work

productively, and make meaningful contributions to

our community.

While mental health problems are very common, help

is available. People with mental health problems can

get better and many recover completely. If you or

someone you know is struggling with mental health

feel free to reach out to the Isleta Behavioral Health

Clinic at 505-869-5475 and set up an appointment

with one of our counselors.

Page 8

Isleta Pueblo News

November 2022

TRUANCY

Happy Fall,

Cooler mornings, shorter evenings. The colors of

leaves changing. It’s time for Fall. There are so

many fun things to do in the month of October with

your families, such as going to the pumpkin patch, a

hike, football games, decorate for Fall, and of course

Thanksgiving. We know that this time of year is a

very happy time for all with the holidays and all the

fun activities that can be done.

With the holidays coming up, always remember to

be kind and respectful to others, not just during this

time of year but all year around.

Bullying does not just happen to our youth, but to

adults as well, and it has so many negative effects.

There is so much that everyone can do to help stop

the rise of bullying.

Parents, be sure to talk to your children about

bullying and the negative effects it will have. These

effects can range from depression and anxiety, a drop

in grades and missing school more often, as well as a

person’s eating habits and sleep which can then lead

to health problems. The effects of bullying most likely

will follow a child into adulthood.

Types of bullying:

Verbally

•

Teasing,

•

Name calling,

•

Threating to cause harm to that person.

Social

•

Telling other kids not be friends with someone,

•

Spreading rumors so no one will talk or be

around them,

•

Making fun of someone in front of others or

in private (texting, calling, messaging on

social media).

Physical

•

Hitting/kicking/pinching,

•

Breaking/stealing someone’s belongings,

•

Spitting,

One important way to stop bullying is by setting an

example for your children, as they watch and repeat

what adults do. If they see or hear you being rude or

hurtful to someone they will think that it is ok for

them to do it too. If you have any concerns that your

child or other children may be victims of bullying,

please reach out to the school or POI service providers

to report this behavior. Remember that your voice can

support many others.

We are glad to announce that the Truancy Department

has a new Truancy Coordinator. We would like to

welcome Christine Abeita into your department.

Christine comes to us from the Tribal Court with

experience in working with our community.

Thank you,

Truancy Department

November 2022

Isleta Pueblo News

Page 9

ISLETA ANIMAL CONTROL

Hello fellow Tribal Members

and Happy Fall!

Isleta Animal Control hopes everyone had a fun

and safe summer this year. As summer draws

to an end and the cooler months start coming

in, we want to remind everyone to make sure

their pets are still secured on their property.

During these cooler months, pets are more

active outside and will wander more than they

would in the hot summer months. Isleta Animal

Control has dealt with a substantial increase

in pets being struck by vehicles recently due to

them Running at Large.

We would like to take this time to inform

everyone about the public services we offer.

There will NOT be another spay/neuter clinic

for the rest of the year. If you need your pet

to undergo the surgery, or are required to do

so, you can contact your normal veterinarian,

or you can contact Isleta Animal Control

and we will provide you with different “low

cost” services you may qualify for. Our next

Vaccination clinic is being planned for the

early parts of next year (2023). If your pet

needs the Rabies Vaccine or if you are required

to get it for your pet, you can contact Village

Veterinary Hospital in Bosque Farms. A one

year Rabies Vaccine is $21.00 plus tax. We are

planning on bringing a microchip clinic back

early next year as well. One last thing is the

food donations. We may be getting another

shipment of various pet foods again soon, so

please keep your eyes open for advertisements.

Isleta Animal Control would like to close out

with an important section from our Animal

Ordinance.

Section 5.B. Animal Bites. When a person/

animal is bitten by an animal, without notice

or warning and outside the residence of the

owner, it is the responsibility of the owner of the

animal to provide proof of rabies vaccination. If

an owner fails to show that the animal is current

on the rabies vaccination, the animal will be

impounded for ten (10) days for a mandatory

quarantine period. Any expenses incurred by the

confinement of the animal for the quarantine

is the responsibility of the owner. If after ten

(10) days no rabies is found, the animal may be

released to the owner after obtaining a release

form from the Pueblo of Isleta Animal Control

and payment of any fines and fees. In addition,

the owner may be fined up to $500.00.

If your canine/feline bites someone off of your

property unprovoked, and there is failure to

show the animal is up to date on the Rabies

Vaccine, your animal WILL be taken to the

Valencia County Animal Shelter where you

will be charged $25.00 per day per animal.

Please be sure your animals are secured on

your property at all times. Thank you for your

cooperation and everyone stay safe!

Isleta Pueblo News

Editor:

Nathaniel Lujan

Asst. Editor:

Diane Abeita

Published By:

Valencia Express

Page 10

Isleta Pueblo News

November 2022

November 2022

Isleta Pueblo News

Page 11

WHAT IS GRIEF?

Grief is the natural reaction to loss. While everyone

experiences some form of grief and loss, it is also

an intensely personal experience. It is the emotional

suffering we feel when we lose something or someone

we love. The pain of the loss can feel overwhelming

and we may suddenly experience unexpected

emotions from shock or anger to disbelief, guilt, and

deep sadness. The pain of grief is not limited to our

emotional suffering but our physical health can also

suffer, making it difficult to sleep, eat, or even think

straight. These are common reactions to loss—and

the more significant the loss, the more intense our

grief will be.

Many are enduring losses during this challenging

time of the Pandemic. While we usually associate

grief with the death of a loved one, any loss can

cause grief, including:

•

Divorce or relationship breakup

•

Loss of health

•

Loss of a job

•

Loss of financial stability

•

A miscarriage

•

Retirement

•

Death of a pet

•

Loss of a cherished dream

•

Serious illness of a loved one

•

Loss of a friendship

•

Loss of safety after a trauma

•

Selling or moving away from the family home

Whatever the cause of the grief, there are healthy

ways to cope with the pain that, in time, can ease our

sadness and help us come to terms with our loss,

find new meaning, and eventually move on with our

lives.

Seek help if you:

1. Feel like life isn’t worth living

2 Wish you had died with your loved one

3. Blame yourself for the loss or for failing to

prevent it

4. Feel numb and disconnected from others for

more than a few weeks

5. Are having difficulty trusting others since

your loss

6. Are unable to perform your regular daily

activities

Call Isleta Behavioral Health Clinic at 869-5475

Have you been Thinking About Quitting?

Now is the time to act and

Quit your Nicotine Habit for Good!

Take this 1 time, 1 on 1, 90 minute

session over the phone or in person at

the Isleta Health Center, to increase

your motivation to quit and to get

some Tips and Tricks to help you do

Quit for Good!

Call Stephanie, Health Educator

@ 869-4479 to learn more

Page 12

Isleta Pueblo News

November 2022

NEWSLETTER ISLETA POLICE DEPARTMENT

NOVEMBER - 2022

The eleventh month of the year has arrived, putting Thanksgiving just around the corner, with Christmas

close behind, and before you know it, 2023 will be here! Where has the year gone?

WELCOME

Please welcome our new Chief of Police

Vincent Rodriguez.

Chief Rodriguez has been a New Mexico

resident for approximately 22 years where

he and his wife, Eunice have raised their

family. Throughout the last 22 years,

Chief Rodriguez has held various law

enforcement and detention leadership

positions in state, county, and municipal

public safety organizations. Most recently,

Chief Rodriguez served the City of Truth or

Consequences as their police chief.

Chief Rodriguez’s educational background

includes a bachelor’s degree in Criminal

Justice Administration, a master’s degree

in Business Administration, and a master’s

degree in Criminal Justice Administration

with an emphasis in Law Enforcement

Organizations/Security from University of

Phoenix. Chief Rodriguez is also a proud

graduate of the Northwestern University

Center for Public Safety School of Police

Staff and Command Class #445, a staple

in executive law enforcement leadership

education.

Chief Rodriguez holds an Executive

Advanced Law Enforcement Certification,

the highest level of advanced certifications

awarded by the New Mexico Law

Enforcement Academy. Chief Rodriguez

has a wide range of experience in the areas

of community policing relations, patrol,

criminal investigation, civil court services,

school

resource,

gambling,

tobacco/

alcohol enforcement, narcotics, detention,

emergency

telecommunications,

and

mental health de-escalation.

Throughout his law enforcement career,

Chief Rodriguez took an immediate interest

in teaching, which led him to obtain his

General Police Instructor certification

allowing him to teach various policing

subjects to hundreds of law enforcement

officers. Chief Rodriguez has also taught

at two area higher education institutions

where he introduced hundreds of local

college students including many students

from the Pueblo of Isleta to the inner

workings of the criminal justice and

business professions.

Chief Rodriguez is excited and committed

to serving the residents of the Pueblo of

Isleta as their police chief.

Chief Rodriguez has not allowed the “grass

to grow under his feet” as he has set up a

Facebook page for the Police Department

and has assigned a committee to plan

“town hall” style community meetings to

name a couple of projects. These meetings

are already in the planning stages and

will hopefully start them this month. The

Pueblo residents attending can meet with

the Command Staff and officers to discuss

issues and/or concerns they have. The

Department will address these and discuss

with the residents possible solutions/plans.

At each of the meetings short presentations

will be a part of the program and could

include Crime Stoppers, Critical Response,

Mental Health, Drug Awareness, Animal

Welfare, Elder Fraud Awareness, Child

and Elder Abuse etc. Please watch for

announcements which are forthcoming.

The link for the Police Department’s

Facebook page is: https://www.facebook.

com/profile.php?id=100086226116534

The purpose of the Department’s Facebook

page is to keep the community aware of

the many projects undertaken, sending

out community reminders (getting drivers

to slow down, DWI prevention campaigns,

getting the community to take the

initiative to watch for burglars and assist

in identifying suspect[s]), Animal Control

and any other police events occurring.

We want to also welcome our new School

Resource Officer Richard Yzquierdo

Hello my name is Ricardo Yzquierdo, my

friends and family call me Rick or Ricky.

I started my career in 2001 as a dispatcher

for the Belen Police Department. I also

enlisted in the New Mexico Army National

Guard. My position as a dispatcher

inspired me to want to help people and

in 2003 I became a certified police officer.

I worked as a Patrol Officer for the Belen

Police Department until 2005 when I

was deployed with the Army National

Guard during Operation Iraqi Freedom. I

returned from deployment in late 2006 and

continued my duties as a Patrol Officer.

In 2008 I lateralled to the Santa Fe Police

Department in search of advanced training

so that I could not only better myself as

a Patrol Officer but also provide a better

service to the community. During my time

in Santa Fe I was fortunate to have the

opportunity to join the Crime Scene Unit in

2011. I remained with the Santa Fe Police

Department and Crime Scene Unit until I

retired in December of 2021.

My hobbies are being with my family,

cooking, watching football, and most

recently gardening with my kids.

Thank you for the opportunity and I

look forward to being of service to this

community.

IHPS TRAFFIC DIVISION

The division’s new grant, reviewed and

approved, began October 1, 2022. The

division will also begin to utilize the TRAX

program allowing Traffic Officers to use

digital E-tickets and will improve and

enhance officers enforcing traffic laws in a

more expedient manner.

It was also announced the Traffic Division

does have a vacancy in the Division and

those interested should apply. For further

details please go to the Human Resources

website.

November 2022

Isleta Pueblo News

2022 HALLOWEEN CARNIVAL

The Department was also a participant in the

Halloween Carnival with their theme “Harry

Potter”. The carnival seems to have been a

huge success and a great time was held by

all.

Winter is approaching, the monsoon season

is apparently not completely done and the

roadways may become hazardous so we are

asking drivers to be particularly observant

and cautious when traveling in inclement

weather conditions to include wind and dust.

If you have no need to venture out during bad

stormy days, please stay home.

We hope all had a safe and Happy Halloween

and are now preparing for the Thanksgiving

holidays.

Page 13

Isleta Pueblo News

Page 14

November 2022

Pueblo of Isleta Public Library

Greetings, Pueblo of Isleta Readers! Don’t forget to set your clocks back an hour because it’s time

to fall back to shorter days and longer nights. The library would like to wish you all a Happy

Thanksgiving & Black Friday Holiday. Enjoy your time with your family as the end of the year is

approaching faster than we expected. The library has been planning programs to end out our year

and to start the new calendar year. So, come in and see what programs and services the library

has to offer.

News

The library will be having a staff meeting

on Wednesday, November 2nd. The library

will remain open during this time so feel free

and come in and use the library as normal.

During this time, we will be discussing

upcoming programs for the remaining

months of the 2022 as well as planning for

the beginning of 2023. We apologize for any

inconvenience this may cause.

With the Holiday Season, the Library

will be CLOSED on the following dates,

also keep in mind times and days are

subject to change as we get notices from

administration:

Friday, November 11th in observance

of Veterans Day. We would like to thank

all that have served our country past and

present. All library media checked out on

Wednesday, November 9th will be due on

Monday, November 14th.

Library Staff at the Halloween Carnival at the Rec.

Thursday, November 24th, Friday,

November

25th

and

Saturday,

November 26th in observance of the

Thanksgiving Holiday. All library media

checked out on Wednesday, November 23rd

will be due on Monday, November 28th.

With the weather quickly changing and with

unpredictable weather patterns, please

keep in mind that unexpected closures may

occur. Notices will be posted throughout

the library and up to the minute, notices

will be posted on the library’s social media

accounts.

The library now has laptop checkouts for in

house use only for library patrons with a

valid ID. Laptops are available on a firstcome, first-served basis. Wi-fi is available

and laptops will automatically connect to it

for easy internet access. Laptops must be

returned to the checkout desk after each

session or before the end of the business

day. Laptop checkouts are only for use

inside the library and cannot be taken

home. If you would like to learn more about

this service or have any questions, please

give the library a call at 505-869-9808.

Join us every Wednesday at 10:30am with

library staff member Renetta. Renetta will

read a story and do a small activity with the

families and children who attend. Family

Story Time is geared towards children

16 months to 5 years old, but everyone

is welcomed! No sign up is required and

monthly calendars will be available for

story time here at the library. For more

information on the story and activity for

that day, please call Renetta at 505-8699808 or email Renetta.Jojola@isletapueblo.

com.

Upcoming

The After School Program has a lot of fun

activities and crafts planned for this month

and the upcoming holiday seasons there is

even an incentive field trip in the works.

All our After School students are doing so

good coming in getting their homework and

reading done. They have the routine down

Library Booth featuring Battleship and Pirates of the Caribbean

McCall’s Scream Fest participants and library staff enjoying a night out

at the Haunted Farm!

and often come in after school wanting to

know what the craft or activity is for the

day. Half the school year is almost done

and we will soon be ready to start the second

half. Our After School Program is currently

full but we do have a waiting list for anyone

that wants to sign up their student. If you

have any questions or concerns about this

program, please feel free to give us a call at

505-869-9808.

more information please contact Cheyenne

at 505-869-9808 or by email Cheyenne

Castillo@isletapueblo.com.

Recap

Mark your calendars this November because

the library will be hosting an Autumn

Paint Night on Wednesday, November

9th from 5:00pm to 6:30pm. Relax and sip

some hot tea while painting at the library!

Bring your friends and/or family to enjoy a

relaxing evening painting before the rush

of the Holidays. This program is open to

the first 10 patrons 18 & over, all supplies

will be provided. Registration starts on

Monday October 24th, to sign in please

come into the library or give us a call. For

The library participated in the Rec’s annual

Halloween Carnival on Friday, October

14th. The library is excited to announce

that our booth came in second place for

best booth and costumes within the POI

departments. This year we wanted to

do a life size game of Battleship with a

Halloween Twist of incorporating Pirates of

the Caribbean. It was an epic dual between

the East India Trading Company and

Jack Sparrows Pirates. We called on

participants to come and join in on the fun

More program announcements to come! For

up to the minute info on the library follow

us on our Social Media accounts where we

will be promoting upcoming programs and

events.

November 2022

Isleta Pueblo News

Page 15

and help us sink ships between the two

opponent teams. Participants were given

two paint balls to throw over and have their

chance at sinking the opponent’s ship. We

had so much fun and it was nice to see the

community having a great time. Thank

you to everyone who came out and stopped

by our booth. Until next year!

During the month of October, the library

did a promotion of Spooky Snack Packs

where patrons would come in and check

out a Halloween movie or book and receive

a Spooky Snack Pack Filled with popcorn,

candy and drinks. This promotion was

done every Friday for the month of October

and was our second year doing the Spooky

Snack Packs here at the library.

The library hosted a series of Financial

Education Nights in collaboration with

Tiwa Lending and Social Service. Session

included Saving & Budgeting, Credit &

Collections and Homeownership that was

presented by Miranda Lente from Tiwa

Lending. The library provided child care

during these sessions with activities for the

children that included Pumpkin Carving,

Solar Bugs and a Movie Night where Hocus

Pocus 2 was shown and popcorn was served.

We had a great turn out and we would like

to thank everyone who participated.

Thank you for Victims’ services for donating

Halloween Goody Bags to our Program kids

and to our After School Program students!

On Tuesday, October 25th the library

hosted a Pumpkin Cheese Ball Program for

the first ten adults to sign up. Participants

got to come in and learn how to make

a pumpkin shaped cheese ball for their

Halloween and Thanksgiving events. As

a special surprise participants also got to

Library Staff member Kim instructing the

After School Students on a fall craft!

After School Program students working hard on their fall crafts,

pumpkin carving and crispy treats!

make an easy Carmel apple dip that only Participants came into the library and

took three ingredients to put together. We checked out 2 books from our designated

would like to thank everyone who signed selection of Halloween books and wrote

up and participated in this program. We a review per book. The first 10 to submit

hope you enjoyed making a holiday treat their book reviews earned their ticket to

McCall’s Haunted Farm. Transportation

to take home and share with family and was provided to McCall’s as well as dinner

friends. During this program the library’s from Dion’s. It was a scary night, but

cook books were on display for participants library staff and participants made it out

and patrons to check out for the upcoming safe and sound. We would like to thank

holiday season.

everyone who participated in our library

Scream Fest at McCall’s Haunted Farm program.

took place on Saturday, October 22nd.

ST. AUGUSTINE

PARISH ONLINE GIVING

St. Augustine Parish is now offering

online giving services to better serve

our parishioners.

We are providing

this option in addition to cash or check

donations. You can still give through

traditional methods, but now you can

make recurring or one-time gifts online

with a credit/debit card or electronic

check.

To give online through our new platform,

visit our giving page on our website

https://www.isletachurch.org/.

You

can also give through text message by

sending “Give” to (505) 207-4077.

This program is beneficial to you, in that

you do not need to worry about having

cash or a check on hand at Mass, and it

benefits the Parish by reducing the time

needed to process donations and run

financial reports.

Page 16

Isleta Pueblo News

November 2022

PARKS & RECREATION DEPARTMENT

Believe it or not the Holidays are already

here! Thanksgiving Day will be here before

you know it and if you are like me, you will

probably eat way too much and feel awful

afterwards. If that is you, please make

sure to read the tips in this article that our

Fitness staff has to offer to help you get

through the holidays in a healthy manner.

Great tips and great information!

For those of you that did not get a chance

to come out for our Halloween Carnival last

month you missed a great event! Many

POI departments had booths and, boy, do

they get in the spirit. Their booths were

awesome, some of the themes were Jurassic

Park, The Smurfs, Coco, Catwomen, Harry

Potter, Carnival Theme, Battleship: Pirate

of the Caribbean Edition , Stranger Things,

Golf Theme and Disney Halloween to

name a few. We had a few other themes

as well, I’m sorry if I didn’t mention your

departments theme, believe me it was

done inadvertently not on purpose. When

you get as old as me you have tendency to

forget things sometimes (lol). Everyone

who attended seemed to have lots of fun,

especially the children and this event is

mainly for the children like always. We

could not have asked for a better night,

the weather was great! Over all it was

an awesome event and everyone had an

awesome time! Thank you all for making

this event successful once again.

Aquatics Section

We hope everyone has had a good fall so

far! Isleta Aquatics would once again

like to invite all of you to come check out

our facility! Although the temperature is

dropping outside, our pool area as well as

the pools themselves stay just as warm

as they are in the summer! The Lap Pool

is 80 degrees, Wading Pool is 90 degrees,

and the Jacuzzi is 102 degrees! We will

have sessions available from 6:00am8:30am as well as 2:30pm-7:30pm Monday

through Thursday, and 6:00am-8:30am

and 2:30pm-5:30pm Fridays. We will

close mid-day to accommodate swim time

for youth programs Isleta has to offer as

well as daily pool maintenance. We are

also offering our adults only lap swim on

Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays from

12pm-2:00pm. All three types of swim

session can be reserved in one and two hour

increments at the front desk of the Rec

Center. Swim lesson registration forms

are available at the front desk at the Rec

Center or contact Josh or Connie at 505869-9783 for more details on availability

and registration. Isleta Aquatics is still

looking for Lifeguards! Previous experience

is welcome but we can train and certify

those that need it and qualify. Schedules

are flexible and work around school and

extracurricular activities. If you know

anyone interested in becoming a Lifeguard

please call or visit the POI website for

the job posting! For anyone interested in

information about Lifeguard certification,

child or adult swim lessons, water aerobics

and other aquatic programming please call

Josh or Connie at 505-869-9783.

Parks Management Section

The weather has changed and our parks

crew is or has already started to winterize

our parks, so you’ll see less watering or

no more watering for a while. Leaves are

falling so they will be out there picking up

the leaves and trying to get the rest of the

left over weeds from the grounds and parks.

We are also asking for residents to keep an

eye out for graffiti, we have noticed some

playground equipment and different areas

in some parks that have been tagged with

graffiti. If you happen to see any graffiti

please let us know so we can get it removed

as quickly as possible.

The Parks and Recreation Department

would like to thank Mr. Ron Abeita for his

many years of dedicated service to the Parks

Department. Ron came to the department

from the Isleta Eagle Golf course 10 years

ago as an Irrigation Tech. Over the years,

Ron’s job was to assure that all grass and

vegetation was kept green, healthy and

beautiful and as you can tell, he did his job

very well. He was also an equipment operator

and performed all the duties required from

a Parks maintenance crewmember, so he

wore many hats for us in our Parks Division.

Ron was recently promoted to the Parks

field Foreman where he oversaw the Parks

Maintenance Crew, Ron did a great job

for us. Not only did he excel in this area

but he also taught and gained the respect

from the parks/weed and litter crew.

November 2022

Ron has always had a passion for the game

of Baseball, he was a coach for many of the

youth here in the Pueblo, and he talks about

how much he enjoyed teaching the game to

the youth. Unfortunately, for us Ron’s last

day with us was on October 14, 2022. He

officially retired from POI on that day and

his expertise, commitment, dedication, and

professionalism will be missed. We wish

Ron and his family well for the new future

that lies ahead. I have a feeling we will still

be seeing him a lot around our fields, he

loves Baseball and Softball way too much

to not be around the game. Good Luck Ron

and we will definitely see you around!

Sports Section

From the sports desk! We just finished up with the

Hitting Challenge in October at Chical Baseball

Fields and like always, it was a good turnout.

In the Adult Division, we had David Lucero,

Michael Abeita, Michael Toya, Brain Lente, Izzy

Lujan, and Nate Lujan. Winning it all this fall was

Michael Abeita, in 2nd place, we had Isidor Lujan;

and our 3rd place winner was Michael Toya.

Isleta Pueblo News

The holidays are coming and ‘tis the season to eat,

and eat, and eat. As fitness professionals, this is

the time of year when we start to see a drop off in

attendance at gyms and weight rooms around the

country—mainly due to time spent planning for or

attending holiday gatherings. Then, it is no surprise

that the biggest uptick for gym memberships is in

January of each year when people set resolutions

to come in, lose the weight they gained for the

holidays, and start the year off right. That is all

well and good—but hey, that’s where we come in.

As your trusted fitness professionals at the Isleta

Recreation Center, we are here to help you make

time to continue with your fitness regimes and, if

this is you, beat the food obsessions that overtake

you during the Holidays. Trust us, we understand.

After all, food is frickin’ awesome, right?! Each

of us, Matt, Thomas and Anne, have our own ways

for not overdoing it and meeting our respective

fitness goals during the Holidays. Here’s what

usually works for us:

Page 17

Two words: portion control. As hard as it

is when we’re surrounded by good food all

season, we can cut back and still enjoy it by

putting just a “little bit of everything” on our

plates as opposed to piling high. However,

make sure to watch the amount of servings!

For moving, I recommend walking after a

meal—this is also a great way to bond with

friends and family, including pets! If you

have mobility issues, simply march in place

in your chair or do arm exercises to burn

some calories. In addition, research shows

that Yoga “‘rewires’¹ the brain and reduces

stress-related habits,” this includes eating. So

come to the New Rec Center and get started

on taking Yoga as we head into the holidays!

Thomas Zuni – Fitness Coordinator (ACECTP):

Matt Jaramillo – Fitness Instructor (NETACPT):

In the Youth division we had Michael T. Jr., Curtis

J., Cody J. Isiah C., and Peyton J. competing this

year. Winning it all this fall was Michael T. Jr. in

the division, in 2nd place we had Isiah C., and our

3rd place winner was Curtis J. We want to thank

all the participants in this year’s Hitting Challenge

and we look forward to seeing all of you next year

as well.

We started our Pueblo Harvest Run/Walk on

October 19th, 2022, this run will go through Nov

19th, 2022, the goal this year is to run, walk, or

both for at least 75 miles. We want to wish all the

participants good luck and good health.

Our Co-Ed Volleyball League sign-ups end

November 4, 2022, so if you haven’t signed

up your team there still might be time to do so.

This season will start this year on November 14,

2022, and all games will be held on Monday and

Wednesday evenings at 6:30pm and 7:30pm.

We are trying to start a Pickle Ball League as well,

we have had some people ask about Pickle Ball, so

we have put together an introduction to the game,

so if you would like to learn how to play Pickle

Ball we will teach you. We are having classes on

Wednesdays from 11am to 4 pm. Pickle Ball is a

fun activity/sport that all age groups can compete

in and have fun doing so.

Keep a look out for an upcoming Corn Hole league

Flyer as well.

For more information on Sport Activities or to

offer suggestions on new Sport Activities feel free

to contact Coach George Waquie at (505) 8699777.

Fitness Section

Beat the Food Obsession this Holiday Season – By

New Recreation Fitness Staff

When you are out with family gatherings,

know your limits. It is okay to not give into

peer or family pressure. I know it is hard

when not in your home to say “no” when you

are offered something. But it is okay to say

“no.” Also, maybe do a half and half when

you are eating—half “junk food” and halfhealthy—when fixing a plate. In addition,

I recommend doing the maintenance work

before the holidays hit. Work out hard leading

into Thanksgiving, as opposed thinking you

will do it after, then you can enjoy holiday

eating more. Check out my Bootcamp class as

a way to help you get there.

Anne Asmen – Fitness Instructor (ACECPT, RYT-200):

Water, water, water! During the holidays, it is very

easy to pick the sweet drinks along with all the

delicious food but drinking a glass of water before

your meal will help reduce the risks of overeating.

In addition, no other beverage has proven to be

better than water. Water is life! Drinking sodas

along with food could lead to sugar overload—it

increases the glycemic index of the meal that can

cause spikes in your blood sugar levels and blood

pressure. Truth be told, drinking a soda during

a meal increases the desire for overeating, so try

drinking water this holiday. Take the challenge!

If the Cokes and food win this holiday, your Isleta

Recreation fitness staff are here for each and every

one of you. Each Recreation personal trainer

possesses a certain set of skills to help you achieve

your health and fitness goals—flexibility, strength

training, toning, weight loss or just encouragement

to keep you motivated. We are here and hope

you take advantage of these beneficial services

provided to you free of cost. If you have never

visited us, try it; come see what you have been

missing and what others are benefiting from.

Happy Holidays from Isleta Recreation fitness

staff!

References

1 “How Yoga Can Help You Recover from Food

Addictions,” Elizabeth Kovar, June 1, 2015,

American Council on Exercise

Youth Recreation Program

The Youth Afterschool Program is going strong

and here are a few of the activities that the program

is doing or has done:

Photo Credit: Tim Samuel from Pexels via

Canva

•

Fun Science: The youth were able to make

their own Hovercraft Racers! They build their

craft using balloons, compact discs and lids

from empty water bottles. The youth learned

how the friction of the air from the bottom

of the bottle cap could make it slide over the

surface.

Page 18

•

Step-by-Step Painting: Youth love to paint.

Their recent painting projects were painting a

sea life silhouette and a Halloween pumpkin

with spiders. During their painting class,

the youth really listen to all the step-by-step

instructions and are amazed at their finished

artwork at the end.

•

Snack Making: The youth have made

some yummy snacks in the program such as

Ants on a log on celery or apple slices, S’mores,

and decorated Halloween cookies. Children also

learned facts about S’mores. Did you know that

Americans buy 90 million marshmallows a year

and 50% of it is used during the summer for

S’mores!

•

Crafts Activities:

For Halloween, the

youth decorated the Game room by making

construction chains to hang, black cat

ornaments, made Fall Acorns faces and made

magnets using pearl beads.

•

Fun Time: The youth do an assortment of

gym play such as basketball, playground time,

running laps against each other’s, minute to

win games or play a selection of board games.

Parents if you are interested about the After

School Program for your child or children, please

call the Recreation Center for more information at

505-869-9777

Isleta Pueblo News

November 2022

November 2022

Isleta Pueblo News

Page 19

ISLETA HEALTH CENTER

Know Your Numbers, You Are

Important, You Are Worth It

Weight, BMI, and Waist

Circumference

Andrea Wilson, Fitness Instructor

Phone: 505-869-4595

References: cdc.gov nhlbi.nih.gov

uofmhealth.org

Weight, waist measurement, and/or BMI are

different measurements used to measure the

health of an individual. Being overweight or

obese increases your risk for developing health

diseases such as type 2 diabetes, high blood

pressure, high blood cholesterol, and many

others. If you are overweight and/or obese,

losing a small amount of weight (between 5-10%

of your current weight) will help you lower your

risk for developing these health diseases. The

best way to lose weight is by eating a healthy

and balanced diet, and by exercising at least

150 minutes per week.

Weight

The ideal weight for males and females can

differ. It also depends on factors such as: age,

height, fat and muscle composition, frame size,

etc. It is important to know how much we weigh,

that way we know our risk for developing health

diseases. If you are overweight and/or obese,

you are at a higher risk for developing health

diseases such as diabetes, heart disease, stroke,

and some types of cancer. You can maintain

a healthy weight by exercising regularly, and

eating a healthy and balanced diet. One way to

determine a healthy weight is calculating your

BMI.

BMI

BMI is known as Body Mass Index. BMI is a

measurement of body fat based on an individual's

height and weight. It is important to note that

BMI does not consider muscle mass, and for

this reason individuals with a high muscle mass

may have a high BMI. In this specific case, the

individual would have a high BMI, but have a

healthy-looking physique. There are different

BMI categories, which include: Underweight=

<18.5, Normal weight= 18.5-24.9, Overweight=

25-29.9, and Obesity= BMI of 30 or greater.

For example, if you are 5'5" and you weigh 170

pounds, your BMI would be 28. A BMI of 28 would

place you in the overweight category. In order to

move into the normal weight BMI category, you

would have to lose about 30 lbs. Let's say you

lost 30 lbs. and you now weigh 140 lbs. Your

BMI would be 23, which is considered a normal

weight. You can calculate your BMI through

various websites, InBody, handheld body fat

analyzers, body fat scales, bod pods, and

skinfold calipers. You can decrease your BMI by

exercising and eating a healthy and balanced

diet in order to lose weight. A decrease in weight

results in a decreased BMI.

Waist Circumference

Your waist size is also another way in which

you can measure your health. A large waist

circumference is associated with an increased

risk for type 2 diabetes, high cholesterol, high

blood pressure, and cardiovascular disease.

You can measure your waist circumference

by placing a tape measure at the top of your

hip bone, then bringing the tape measure all

the way around your body, level with your

belly button. A healthy waist measurement for

males is less than 40 inches, and a healthy

waist measurement for females is less than

35 inches. You can decrease inches from your

waist measurement through calorie deficit and

exercising often.

Page 20

Isleta Pueblo News

November 2022

TRANSPORTATION

Upcoming Project for Replacement and Upgrade

of Roadway Luminaire Heads on NM 47 from

TR-2 to TR-15

The Pueblo of Isleta has been awarded a Local

Government Road Funds (LGRF) grant from

the New Mexico Department of Transportation

for replacement of the existing incandescent

luminaires on NM47 with state of the art LED

luminaires. Installation of the luminaires will

be performed under a contract with MWI for an

estimated cost of $73,268.85 including $18,317.21

of American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) matching

funds. There will be an estimated 12 week lead

time for delivery of materials. Construction is

anticipated to begin Mid-December and require

two weeks to complete. There will be no lane

closures, but a rolling arrow board will be used to

protect traffic and the shoulder work zones. The

LED luminaires will reduce energy consumption

and provide perpetual future operational and

maintenance cost savings. Quality LEDs have an

expected lifespan that is an order of magnitude

longer than typical incandescent bulbs. LEDs

do not have filaments or glass enclosures and

are therefore breakage resistant. LEDs use 50%

less electricity than traditional incandescent

lights, resulting in a substantial reduction in

energy consumption and associated cost savings.

This project was conceived by James Weldon,

Transportation Manager and advanced by the

Construction Operations Department with the

support of Tribal Administration and Tribal

Council.

November 2022

Isleta Pueblo News

Page 21

What to do if you find a

used needle outdoors

People, especially children, must never touch

or pick up needles found on the ground.

Discarded needles can be harmful. Needles

or hypodermic needles are also known as

syringes or sharps.

Cleaning up discarded needles must be done

carefully to protect human health and the

environment.

If a used or discarded needle is found on

Isleta tribal land, please call Isleta Police

Dispatch at 869-3030 to report the location

so that a qualified tribal employee can safely

collect and dispose of the discarded needle.

Individuals who use needles for insulin shots

or other medical uses are expected to dispose

of their used needles appropriately in sharps

containers that individuals have to purchase

themselves.

An exclamation mark within a triangular

border is the international symbol for

caution. Always exercise caution if you see a

discarded needle.

If you have any questions about this article,

please contact Environment Department at

869-7565.

Page 22

Isleta Pueblo News

November 2022

Health Beat

Keeping our People Safe Suicide Prevention

Orion Zuni,

Experiential Educator

B’eeh-K’oo-ee Wellness Center

(505) 869-5482

orion.zuni@ISLCLINIC.net

This time of year brings many things including

seasonal change, the start of a new educational

year, and for many people it can be a major

change in our mental wellbeing.

According to the Centers for Disease Control,

suicide is considered a death caused by injuring

oneself with the intent to die. While a suicide

attempt is when someone harms themselves

with any intent to end their life, but they do not

die as a result of their actions. Suicide can be

the product of violence, trauma, and even injury.

This is a major public health issue that severely

impacts Native American populations across the

United States, especially those who identify as

lesbian, gay or bisexual. CDC data shows that

90% of individuals who attempt suicide and

survive will never go on to die by suicide.

Although suicide is a stigmatized and often

taboo subject, it is still preventable and we can

all play a role in saving someone’s life. It isn’t

always obvious if someone is in distress, but

most individuals who are suicidal will show

some signs that they are considering harming or

killing themselves. Unfortunately, adults are not

the only populations that are at risk of suicidal

inclinations. Today we are seeing younger

generations experiencing hardships that lead to

suicidal behaviors.

Signs of suicide within older and younger

populations may differ in some instances

depending on the individual’s environment.

Signs can include speaking about death or

suicide, seeking methods of self-harm, and/or

talking about being hopeless or having no reason

to live. Other potential signs could also include

an increase in alcohol or drug use, increase

in reckless behaviors, uncontrollable anger,

changes in sleep schedules, social withdrawal,

and obtaining lethal weapons (guns, sharp

objects, etc.). If one or more of those warning

signs is observed, especially if they are new

behaviors, or seem to be in relation to a painful

event, loss, or change, please step in or speak up.

Intervening in these types of situations isn’t

easy, and can be very concerning for all involved.

But, you are not alone! If you or someone you

know is in an emergency call 911 immediately.

There are also other free options for those who

may find themselves in crisis, and may include

dialing 988 which is an active suicide and crisis

lifeline that provides 24/7, free and confidential

support for people in distress. Sometimes it takes

just one person to take action and save a life.

If you find yourself or someone you know that

is struggling with their mental health please

feel free to reach out to B’eeh-K’oo-ee Wellness

Center (AKA Isleta Behavioral Health) at 505869-5475 and set up an appointment with one of

our counselors.

November 2022

Isleta Pueblo News

Page 23

Isleta Pueblo News

Page 24

November 2022

PUEBLO OF ISLETA ADULT DAY SERVICES

There comes a point in an elder’s life when

the family must decide whether their

loved one should be placed in a long-term

facility such as an assisted living facility

or a nursing home. Signs of when the

elder may need Adult Day Services: when

safety becomes an issue (e.g., leaving

the stove/range on, leaving the water

on, unable to make a 911 call, memory

loss, experiencing numerous falls and/or

unable to cook for themselves, etc.).

An Individualized Elder Care Plan is

developed to ensure specific needs are

taken into consideration and met on a

daily basis. Clients are transported daily

to and from the Elder Center to participate

in a day starting with breakfast followed

with daily activities, snacks, special

projects, exercising and lunch. In addition,

a variety of field trips are planned

throughout the month to include grocery

shopping, outings, field trips, medication

pick up and transportation to medical

appointments within the Pueblo of Isleta.

Periodic home visits are made to ensure

fire and safety hazards are addressed on

behalf of the elder and to work closely with

family members for other needed services.

Before an elder is placed in a long-term

care facility an option may be enrolling

the elder in the POI Adult Day Service

Program (60+ years and older). This

supports the family in the care of their

loved one Monday through Friday 8:30am

to 3:30pm.

Here are some of the activities that the clients have participated in:

Field trip to Snake Ranch Farms to

purchase roasted green chile which was

peeled, chopped and bagged. They also

enjoyed green chile stew and fry bread for

Indigenous Day.

The clients made supa for the Advisory

Board Meeting. They were proud to

show off their talents.

They enjoy going to the Pueblo of Isleta

Library to check out books. They also

enjoyed the Isleta Housing Authority Open

House event.

The clients enjoy socialization, arts and crafts, word search, puzzles, coloring and sewing

projects. They also attend informational meetings at the Elder Center.

The clients held a fund raiser event and made 67 pies, which

included cherry, blueberry and lemon. It was a huge success!

November 2022

They enjoyed a field trip to Constanza

Apple Orchard, afterwards, they made

apple butter and baked apples for a nice

warm treat.

Isleta Pueblo News

Page 25

Participated in the Housing Fair where the clients were able to showcase their arts

and crafts. They were able to sell some of their wonderful art pieces.

Isleta Health Center

Optometry Department

Eye Health for Adults Over 60

See your eye doctor regularly!

First and most important, it is recommended

that you have your eyes examined by an

optometrist or ophthalmologist at least once per

year. You will be screened for eye diseases such

as glaucoma or macular degeneration. If these

are identified early, you can work with your eye

doctor to preserve your vision for many years to

come.

Maintain a healthy lifestyle!

Conditions such as Diabetes and High Blood

Pressure can affect your eyes. It is very

important to work with your Primary Care

Doctor to maintain healthy blood sugar and

blood pressure. A healthy lifestyle not only

helps the body, but also helps the eyes.

Use the right eye drops!

Dryness of the eyes is very common with age.

It is recommended that you use eye drops for

lubrication, also known as “artificial tears”.

Avoid drops that say, “get the red out” as these

can actually make the eyes feel more dry.

Instead, look for drops that say “lubricating” or

“moisturizing”. If you are not getting sufficient

relief, talk to your eye doctor about other

options.

Be aware of normal aging changes to your

vision!

The eyes change with time. Driving at night and

moving from dimly lit to well-lit areas become

more difficult. Be extra cautious while driving,

especially at night. You may also find that good

quality lighting will improve your ability to read

and do other near tasks.

Wear Sunglasses!

Good sunglasses with UVA/UVB protection

will help to slow the progression of cataracts

and other eye damage that can be caused by

UV light. Wide-brimmed hats can also help to

decrease the UV light that enters the eyes.

Page 26

Isleta Pueblo News

November 2022

NEWS FROM ISLETA SOCIAL SERVICES & K’EA-WAH

SUPERVISED VISITATION & SAFE EXCHANGE PROGRAM

We want to take some time to thank

our biggest supporters and community

partners for their contributions to our

recent Grocery Bingo to support victims

and survivors of domestic violence as well

as silent witnesses-or children who witness

domestic violence in the home or family.

Lil Island: (1) Self-care/Spa basket; (1) Auto

cleaning basket (donated money to create

baskets)

Special thanks to the following individuals

who helped during this first in-person

awareness event:

April Abeita-Scentsy Representative: (1)

Scentsy Gift basket

Isleta Recreation & Fitness Center staff:

Rochelle Zuni, and George Waquie

B’eeh-K’oo-ee Wellness Center: Orion Zuni,

Katelynne Johnson, Kaylee Chavez, and

Lisa-Kaye Cherino

Pueblo of Isleta Youth volunteers: Jared

Jojola, Payton Jaramillo, Timothy Panteah,

Ali Panteah, and Aaron Jiron

Coalition to Stop Violence Against Women

staff: Rufina Abeita, Tiffany Jiron, Ryder

Jiron, and Delaney Thiele

We would also like to thank the following

departments for their generous donations

and contributions that supported many

winners throughout the evening:

Pueblo of Isleta Human Resources: (2)

tickets to McCall’s Pumpkin Patch; (1)

Gaming basket with Hulu Gift Card

Pueblo of Isleta Public Works: (1) Coffee

basket with department promotional items

Pueblo of Isleta Governor’s Office: (2)

Baking baskets

Pueblo of Isleta Truancy: (1) Crockpot w/

cooking utensils; (1) Laundry/cleaning

basket

Pueblo of Isleta Public Defenders Office:

(1) Pizza Basket (donated money to create

basket)

Pueblo of Isleta Department of Natural

Resources/Environmental Department: (1)

Movie basket

Pueblo of Isleta Procurement Department:

(2) Gift baskets

Pueblo of Isleta Department of Education:

(1) Gift basket

Pueblo of Isleta Treasurer’s Department:

(4) Pumpkin pies w/ whipped cream

Pueblo of Isleta Travel Center & One Stop:

(1) Snack Basket

Pueblo of Isleta Veteran’s Association:

$100.00 donation

Pueblo of Isleta Social Services: (1) Laundry

basket; (1) House cleaning basket; (1)

Halloween Themed basket; *Grand Prize:

(4) Tickets to UNM Lobo v. Wyoming,

UNM Lobo spirit wear, grill, charcoal, grill

utensils.

Sopas: (1) $25.00 Gift Card, T-shirt, Rosary

Terri’s Sweet Garden: (3) $20.00 Gift Cards

Sichler Farms: (1) $50.00 Gift Card

Clayton & Felicia Padilla- CF Padilla: (1)

Movie Night basket

Gretchen Jiron-Zuni’s Store: (1) Grocery

basket

Pueblo Resurgent’s: (6) Fresh veggie bags

Sheryl Jiron-Queenfeens Custom Creations

(1) Promo Gift bag

Most of all, we want to Thank all of our

participants who attended this fun-filled

event. We appreciate all of your donations,

participation and commitment to being a

source of support for victims and survivors

of domestic violence. We are proud to say we

had 115 people playing rounds of BINGO!

Together--Let us ALL take a stand and

put an end to the cycle of domestic violence

behaviors. We encourage and support

healthy relationships within the Pueblo of

Isleta.

If you or someone you know is in an

unhealthy relationship, and would like

help, please call the Domestic Violence

Resource Center at 505-248-3165.

Social Services, in collaboration with

Tiwa Lending Services, and Pueblo of

Isleta Public Library hosted Financial

Education Nights at the Library. The

resources provided from Miranda Lente

with Tiwa Lending Services were: Savings

& Budgeting; Credit & Collections, Home

Ownership & Maintenance, followed with

activities for the children provided by

Pueblo of Isleta Library staff: Halloween

Pumpkin Carving, Solar Bugs, and Movie

Night-Hocus Pocus 2.

The information provided by Isleta Social

Services was focused on financial abuse

that can stem from perpetrators of domestic

violence. Domestic violence can be confused

with just physical abuse only. This is a

myth. Domestic violence also includes

financial abuse. Housing is very limited

and can be a cause for a family to be forced

to remain in an unhealthy environment.

Because of housing limitations, not only

within the Pueblo of Isleta, but throughout

the State of New Mexico we hope that these

Financial Education Workshops provided

the education and resources to community

members, perhaps empowerment and

support can be planted to those who may

suffer in silence or information can be

spread by word of mouth of the types of

resources within the Pueblo of Isleta and

throughout the State of New Mexico.

November 2022

Isleta Pueblo News

Page 27

ISLETA SOCIAL SERVICE

Hello Everyone. Domestic Violence Awareness

Month is upon us. Because domestic violence can be

considered a taboo subject that is rarely discussed in

native communities, we are opting to take a stand in

solidarity with victims, survivors, and silent witnesses

associated with intimate partner violence and/or

domestic violence on a macro scale. We truly value

and appreciate those who choose to step forward and

allow the healing to begin within our own community.

We would like to take the time to share space with

you...

You may ask yourself, what is domestic violence?

What does that mean for my family members and

my community? How can I become an ally and an

advocate to support those who are or have been living

in an unsafe and uncomfortable situation?

Domestic violence falls under one of the categories

from the Adverse Childhood Experiences (ACEs). The

legal definition of domestic violence in New Mexico is

defined as “an incident of stalking or sexual assault

whether committed by a household member or any

one else; or an incident committed by a household

member against another household member that

involves:

•

•

•

•

•

•

•

•

•

Physical harm;

Severe emotional distress;

A threat causing imminent fear of bodily

injury by any household member;

Criminal damage to property;

Repeatedly driving by a residence or

workplace;

Telephone harassment;

Strangulation;

Suffocation;

Harm to children or threatened to harm

children”

After reading the domestic violence legal definition,

you may be asking yourself, what is harassment?

Harassment is defined as “knowingly pursuing a

pattern of conduct that is intended to: annoy, seriously

alarm, or terrorize another person and that serves

no lawful purpose. The conduct must be such that it

would cause a reasonable person to suffer substantial

emotional distress.”

With all this information, you may be asking yourself,

how can I be a source of support to my family member,

neighbor or community members? The answer is…

listening, reporting any unsafe or alarming behaviors

to law enforcement.

https://www.womenslaw.org/laws/nm/restrainingorders/protection-orders-domestic-violence/basicinformation/what-legal

If you are in an unhealthy relationship and would like

to speak to someone confidentially, please call the

National Domestic Violence Hotline at 1-800-7997233 or visit https://www.thehotline.org/

Page 28

Isleta Pueblo News

November 2022