Pueblo of Isleta website: www.isletapueblo.com (2015)

Volume 10 Issue 5

Isleta Pueblo News

Pueblo of Isleta website: www.isletapueblo.com

May 2015

FROM THE OFFICE OF THE GOVERNOR

MA GU WAM

Pueblo of Isleta hosts International

Visitors

April 1, 2015, the Pueblo of Isleta

Administration played host to a delegation

of Afghanistan Government Officials

sponsored through a U.S. State Department

Program for International Visitors. The

delegation of 16 Afghanistan officials were in

the States to examine effective governance

of a sovereign community under the federal

umbrella. Governor Eddie P. Torres and

1st Lt. Antonio Chewiwi responded to

questions from the delegation on various

subject matter to include;

U.S. Federal system of government,

•

division of powers and interaction

between national, state, and Tribal

Governments.

Laws and initiatives to promote

•

government accountability, transparency,

and the ethical conduct of government

officials.

Tribal member and civil social

•

engagement with tribal government and

policy development.

Tribal initiatives and trends such as

•

economic development, environmental

sustainability,

&

governmental

partnerships.

We are proud that the US State Department

Program for International Visitors views

the Pueblo of Isleta as being an example of

an effective tribal governance.

Governor E. Paul travels to

Washington, D.C.

April 21, 2015

Governor E. Paul Torres traveled to

Washington, D.C.

to meet with the

Department of Interior Officials to demand

the Pueblo’s rights concerning the Isleta

Diversion Dam pursuant to the 1983

Stipulation for Compromised Settlement

entered into by the United States and the

Middle Rio Grande Conservancy District

(MRGCD) (United States v. MRGCD, No.

80-945P (D.N.M.)).The Pueblo has long

sought to resolve not only the trespass

issue but also agricultural, operational,

and practical problems stemming from

MRGCD operation of the Isleta Diversion

Dam (IDD). Among the problems that

the Pueblo has previously brought to the

attention of the Bureau of Reclamation

(BOR) are: (1) the formation of islands and

sand bars both up and down stream of the

IDD, (2) the repeated sedimentation of the

Pueblos’ irrigation ditches, (3) the unsightly

nuisance and potential safety hazard

caused by the drying piles of silt dredged

from canals and Acequia on both the east

and west sides of the Pueblo and, (4) that

MRGCD has been operating the dam

without any formal agreement or license

from the Pueblo of Isleta. The Pueblo

recently issued a letter to the Department

of Interior officials demanding the Pueblo’s

rights under the 1983 Stipulation.

April 28, 2015

Governor Eddie P. Torres traveled to

Washington DC., to provide testimony

before

a

Congressional

Committee

regarding the National Labor Relations

Board, which ruled that tribal governments

are subject to the NLRA when acting more

“commercially” than “governmentally,”

a distinction and classification that the

NLRB has never applied to state and local

governments operating enterprises, liquor

stores, lotteries, and providing other goods

and services in the marketplace. Governor

Torres will provide testimony that supports

federal legislation that would amend the

National Labor Relations Act to clarify that

tribal governments are not subject to the

provisions of the National Labor Relations

Act.

Southwestern Indian Polytechnic

Institute, Albuquerque, NM

On April 17, 2015 the Southwestern Indian

Polytechnic Institute (SIPI), a National

Indian Community College, held their 2015

Commencement Ceremony at the SIPI

Gymnasium. The commencement speaker

for the event was Congresswoman Michelle

Lujan Grisham, representing New Mexico’s

1st Congressional District. The message

from Congresswoman Lujan Grisham was

that we will all need to work together to

lift the state out of poverty by creating

opportunities for New Mexico families. We

are all very proud and honored to recognize

all the students who have attained their

Degrees/Certificates. The Pueblo of Isleta

was represented at the Commencement

Ceremony by 1st Lieutenant Antonio

Chewiwi.

Message from Governor

Eddie Paul Torres

Thank you Great Spirits, for allowing

us to participate and live our culture and

traditions so we may endure and live in

peace and harmony with one another. Let

us remember our dearly departed brothers

and sisters in our prayers and hold in your

hearts fond memories. May the Great Spirit

always guide you and look over you.

PROBATE NEWS

FIRST NOTICE – A Petition to Probate the

Estate of Mary Isabel Cooka, deceased

November 4, 2014, Case. CV-PR-0190-2014,

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 within thirty (30) days of

this notice being posted. A hearing in this

matter has been scheduled for Wednesday,

May 13, 2015. Claims must be filed in writing

with the Isleta Tribal Court Clerk, located at

the Tribal Service Complex, 3950 Hwy. 47

SE, Building A, Albuquerque, NM. If you have

any questions, please contact the Isleta Tribal

courts Clerk at (505) 869-9699.

NOTICE OF PUBLIC

INFORMATION

MEETING

PROJECT:

TRIBAL ROAD 78

IMPROVEMENTS PROJECT

Congresswoman Michelle Lujan Grisham

at the 2015 SIPI Commencement.

A Public Information Meeting

will be held on Wednesday,

May 20th, 2015 from 5:30pm

– 7:00pm to review the design

details of the PROJECT. The

meeting location will be posted

at various locations throughout

the Pueblo well in advance of

the meeting.

Isleta Pueblo News

Page 2

May 2015

NM47 Landscape Improvements Project

The NM47 Landscape Improvements Project is

under construction as of Monday April 20, 2015.

The project includes landscaping the median

from north of the Tribal Services Complex

Intersection where the existing landscaping

ends, to the Isleta Lakes Road Intersection. In

addition, five (5) locations along the roadside

between the asphalt pavement and the rightof-way fencing will be landscaped. The Plan

Drawing provides a sample of the areas

that will be landscaped.

PLAN DRAWING SHOWING SEVERAL AREAS THAT WILL BE LANDSCAPED

The roadside landscaping will include artwork

designed by Local Artists. The Architectural Renderings provided below were developed by the Architect in collaboration

with PSD Staff and Pueblo of Isleta local Artists, Robin Teller and Ron Olguin, during the early stages of the design

process. The Design Drawings shown below are 2 of the 3 final art pieces that will be fabricated and installed during

construction.

The landscaped areas will include irrigation, lighting, maintenance-parking pads, colored concrete accents, various shrubs and trees,

boulders, gravel and seeding.

The project is scheduled to be completed by October 2015 and the Prime Contractor is Kimo Constructors. Please be aware that various

lane closures will be set up along NM47 during the day and at night at different times throughout construction of the Project.

ARCHITECTURAL RENDERING OF STEEL ARTWORK – NORTH END OF

PROJECT EAST SIDE OF NM47

RENDERING – NORTH END OF

PROJECT WEST SIDE OF NM47

DESIGN DRAWINGS FOR STEEL ARTWORK - NORTH END OF THE PROJECT

EAST SIDE OF NM47

RENDERING – SOUTH END OF

PROJECT WEST SIDE OF NM47

DESIGN DRAWINGS FOR CONCRETE/GLASS ARTWORK - SOUTH END OF THE

PROJECT WEST SIDE OF NM47

May 2015

Isleta Pueblo News

Page 3

LETTER FROM THE EDITOR

Deadline for the June Newsletter articles is set

for Thursday May 21 at 4:30pm. Articles may be

dropped off at the Library or emailed to poi02005@

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 whom 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 whom will help you

throughout the process. The Library will not accept

notes dropped off at the Library or information

other the phone to generate your article.

Newsletters may be found at the sixteen distribution

locations mentioned below. Remember, Digital

copies of the Newsletter may be obtained from the

Newsletter archive at http://www.isletapueblo.com/

newsletters.html

The sixteen Newsletter distribution locations are:

1)

Election Day for the Middle Rio

Grande

Conservancy

District

Board of Directors is Tuesday,

June 2, 2015

The Isleta Pueblo polling location for the June 2nd MRGCD Election is the New

Recreation Center on Tribal Road 40. Any qualified elector may vote at any polling

location within the Conservancy District. Polls will be open from 7:00 a.m. until 7:00

p.m.

Information about the election including the list of qualified candidates for the

MRGCD Board of Directors is available on the MRGCD website at http://www.mrgcd.

com/. Look for the red checkmark “Vote” icon on the MRGCD homepage.

Tribal members who are 18 years old or older are qualified and encouraged to vote

in MRGCD Elections. Be aware that MRGCD uses names of tribal members as they

appear on the tribal roll. MRGCD recommends that tribal members take their official

tribe identification card to the voting location.

Early voting is available:

Any qualified elector may vote early. A map and list of early voting locations is available

at the Governor’s Office and on the MRGCD website.

Early voting dates are May 18 to May 22 and May 26 to May 30th. Early voting is not

available on Memorial Day (May 25th).

Early voting locations are open Monday through Friday 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. and on

Saturday, May 30th from 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.

How to vote by Absentee Ballot:

Any qualified elector may vote by absentee ballot. The Absentee Ballot Application

form is available at the Governor’s Office and can be printed from the MRGCD website.

The application is a two-page form that must be filled out, signed and returned to

the MRGCD Election Director at Automated Election Services, PO Box 44607, Rio

Rancho, New Mexico 87174, dropped off at the MRGCD District Office or any MRGCD

Division Office.

In the box for “Legal description of qualifying property,” write: Pueblo of Isleta tribal

member.

Absentee voting began April 23, 2015. IMPORTANT NOTE: The District must receive

Absentee Ballots by Saturday, May 30th (this is not a postmark deadline).

Questions?

If you have any questions about the MRGCD Election, you may contact the Conservancy

District during business hours at 247-0234.

2)

3)

4)

5)

6)

7)

8)

9)

10)

11)

12)

13)

14)

15)

16)

The Administration Building (Governor’s

Office): Receptionist Desk

Census Office: Receptionist Desk

Health Center: Receptionist Desk

Housing Department: Receptionist Desk

Department of Education: Receptionist Desk

New Recreation Center: Newsletter Stand

Old Recreation Center: Front Desk

Tribal Service Complex: Receptionist Desk

Tribal Service Complex: I.P.D. Dispatch

Window

Tribal Service Complex: Tribal Courts

Window

Elders Center: Receptionist Desk & Lunch

Delivery

Head Start: Receptionist Desk

Library: Newsletter Stand

Ranchitos Park : Blue Box (See picture for

example)

Old Head Start Complex:

Blue Box (See picture for

example)

Intersection of Tribal

Road 82 and Tribal Road

84: Blue Box (See picture

for example)

Probate News: Since Probates are a court and

legal matter where spelling and information is

highly critical, it is best that the family member’s

submitting the Probate notice take the time

write the notice. Remember, it is the petitioner’s

responsibility to provide all information to the

Isleta Newsletter.

The Newsletter staff and Valencia Express

should not be expected to write your article as we

know nothing of the Probate Case. For questions

regarding Probates, please call the Tribal Courts at

505.869.9699. Thank you for understanding.

For more information about restocking newsletters

and newsletter articles, please call the Pueblo of

Isleta Public Library at 505.869.9808.

Isleta Pueblo News

Page 4

May 2015

Isleta Business Corporation Employment Opportunities

The following IBC subsidiaries are looking for talented and driven individuals who are seeking to work for a business corporation that

promotes, encourages, and values professional growth and development; and, who is guided by the Pueblo of Isleta’s (POI) culture,

traditions, and values of adaptability, integrity, honor, and leadership.

Isleta Travel Center/Isleta One Stop/Heisenburger Restaurant: Open Until Filled

Line Cook:

The Line Cook works in a team-oriented, high-volume, fast-paced,

guest-centric environment to fulfill our customers’ craving for a Pueblo

of Isleta and Hispanic traditional eating experience. The Line cook is

directly responsible for preparing high quality food order for guests by

way of accurately and efficiently cooking hot food products/orders and

preparing and portioning food products prior to cooking. Additional

responsibilities include, but are not limited to, following recipe and

presentation guidelines to meet or exceed customers’ expectations;

coordinating food orders to support timely and efficient delivery to each

table; plating and garnishing cooked items and preparing appropriate

garnishes for all hot and cold menu items/plates; ensuring proper food

safety and sanitation standards to ensure guest safety and meeting

special guest requests while ensuring same high quality standards.

Qualifications:

1. Must be able to perform basic mathematics to include, but is

not limited to, adding, subtracting, multiplying, and dividing in all

units of measure, using whole numbers, common fractions, and

decimals.

2. Must be able to keep abreast with updates to policies and

procedures and must be able to perform all duties and responsibilities

in a timely and professional manner, at all times.

3. Must be able to communicate, in English, in an effective

courteous manner. Must have good interpersonal skills. Second

language, preferred.

4. Must exhibit and promote good customer service skills to

include a high level of integrity, confidentiality, and respect for all

customers and IBC.

5. Must possess strong organization, time management and

planning skills and be able to take direction and feedback well.

6. Must be able to work a flexible and varying schedule to include

days, evenings, weekends, and holidays.

7. Must be able to work cooperatively and professionally both

with others and independently.

8. High School Diploma or General Educational Degree (GED),

required.

9. Associates Culinary Degree, preferred.

10. Two (2) years previous cooking experience, required.

11. Must possess and maintain or be able to obtain, within the first

30 days of employment, and maintain a valid Food Handers Card

(FHC) New Mexico Alcohol Server’s License (NMASL), or be able

to obtain a FHC and NMASL within one (1) month of employment,

required.

Sales Associate:

The general responsibility of the Sales Associate is to conduct, one-onone, sales transactions for all incoming C-Store customers in a timely

and professional manner. The Sales Associate maintains general

upkeep of the concession area and is responsible for protecting

and securing all store assets and company issues property, by way

of, adhering to all IBC established policies and Standard Operating

Procedures. Additional responsibilities include promoting a welcoming

and professional customer service atmosphere through professional,

courteous, and professional customer service interactions.

Qualifications:

1. Must be 19 years of age, or older as this is a packaged alcohol

sales position;

2. Must possess a current and valid New Mexico Alcohol

Server’s License or be able to obtain one within one (1) month of

employment, required and mandatory;

3. Minimum of three (3) consistent months of cash handling and

customer service experience;

4. Must be able to professional and tactfully communicate, in

English, in an effective and informative manner. Second language

preferred.

5. Must be able to perform basic mathematics in include, but is

not limited to, adding, subtracting, multiplying, and dividing all units

of measurements.

6. Must possess moderate computer skills and be able to operate

Microsoft applications and Passport cash register systems.

7. Must be able to work a flexible and varying work schedule to

include days, evenings, nights, weekends, and holidays

Native American Insurance Group (NAIG):

Open Until Filled

Native American Insurance Group (NAIG) offers a broad range of

insurance products to include Health, Dental, Vision, Supplemental

and Property and Causality products. NAIG is seeking qualified,

driven, team oriented, and enthusiastic Licensed Agents to promote

and develop organizational growth.

If you are interested in applying, submit your resume to IBC Human

Resources (HR) at 3950 Highway 47 SW Suite C127A Albuquerque,

NM 87105 either in person or via traditional mail, or via email at

HR@isletabc.com. If you have questions or would to obtain further

information please contact IBC HR at HR@isletabc.com, by phone

at (505) 869-7568, or in person. For a listing of all open positions for

the above subsidiaries please visit the POI career page at http://www.

isletapueblo.com/careers.html.

Velocity Build, LLC: Always Accepting Applications

IBC, doing business as Velocity Build, LLC is a Native American

owned construction company specializing in water and sewer utilities

and earthwork.

Construction Foreman:

This individual will be in charge of overseeing a 2 to 10 person

construction crew and is responsible for the day to day operations,

on assigned construction projects. Such responsibilities includes, but

is not limited to, scheduling and coordinating work, site paperwork,

grade checking, and directing employees.

Qualifications:

1. Applicants should have a good driving record and current

driver’s license; and

2. Applicants should have a minimum of 5 years of verifiable

experience as a Foreman in the water and sewer and earthwork

industry.

Heavy Equipment Operators:

This individual is responsible for operating all heavy equipment, as

needed and directed.

Qualifications:

1. Applicant should have a minimum of 2 years verifiable

experience as a Heavy Equipment operator; and

2. Applicant should be able to operate excavators, loaders,

rollers, dozers, motor graders, and scrapers as used on construction

projects.

Pipe layers:

This individual is responsible for direct installation and fabrication of

materials for construction projects.

Qualifications:

1. Applicant should have a minimum of 2 years of experience as

a pipe layer, in all types and facets of water and sewer utilities.

Laborers:

This individual is responsible for performing labor intensive work for

various construction projects, as needed and as directed.

Qualifications:

1. No prior experience necessary;

2. Applicants should possess basic skills working with hand

tools; and

3. Applicants should be willing to take and apply direction and

guidance.

IBC, through, Isleta Travel Center and Isleta One Stop

Introduces:

IBC is excited to announce Heisenburger is now open and the remodel

of the Isleta One Stop has been completed. In celebration of this, we

invite the Pueblo of Isleta Community and its many members, to come

enjoy our freshly made to order burgers, burritos, deli sandwiches,

and more at 20% off your entire purchase in honor of our Grand

Opening. Discount valid until May 31, 2015 and cannot be combined

with any other offer(s).

Isleta Pueblo News

Page 6

May

Pueblo of Isleta Public Library

Greetings earthlings! Time is flying by; can you believe it is already going to be summer soon? May

marks the halfway point between the first day of spring and the summer solstice. Now is a good time

to start “ working out”, for some of us we have been saying that since January. Happy Mother’s Day

to all the Mothers, Grandmas, Aunties, Sisters, and Fathers who also play that special role of being a

mother. Blessings to you and your family. We would also like to recognize those who have passed on

and served in the United States Armed Forces. You are not forgotten.

News

Once again, the Library will be closed

from 8:00am-12:00pm on Wednesday May

6th for our monthly staff meeting. We will

be preparing for the upcoming Summer

Reading Program and discussing future

programs.

The Library will also be closed on Saturday

May 23rd and Monday May 25th for the

Memorial Day Weekend. Friendly reminder

that Library Media material checked out on

Thursday will be due on Tuesday May 26th.

As a friendly reminder that our book drop

in front of the Library has been closed as

of last year due to vandalism and misuse

of the book drop. Please do not try to force

movies or books in the box as you might

damage them or they may be stolen and you

will be held liable for the items. Thank you!

Upcoming

We will be having a Mother’s Day Craft

open to 10 students. Come into the Library

Art Room and make a special gift for your

mom or that special person in your life that

you consider “mom”. No moms allowed

during the craft! Please call the Library to

speak to Dianna for more information on

this craft at 505-869-9808.

Summer Reading Program Registration

will be May 15th starting at 7:00am. We

have openings for 20 juniors ages 3 years

old to 6 years old, and 30 youth ages 7 years

old to 18 years old. Unlike previous years we

have had the same theme for both Juniors

and Youth. This year the juniors will focus

on Art, drama, and song, while the youth

will focus on science. Juniors will be doing

activities that are hands on, learn about

colors and shapes, and create art based on

daily readings from a book chosen for that

day. Youth will be meeting in reading groups

based on the age group for 30 minutes and

then they will be conducting experiments

within their groups while writing daily

science logs. Juniors will meet in the

morning from 9:00am-12:00pm. Youth will

meet in the afternoon from 1:00pm-4:00pm.

We will be collaborating with the Bernalillo

county summer lunch program so Lunch

will be provided for all Summer Reading

Program students as well as ANY children

ages 1-18 years old. Lunch will be served

everyday from 11:30am-1:00pm. We do

not provide transportation to or from the

library. If you have questions about the

Summer lunch program or the Summer

Reading Program, please give the library a

call to talk to a library staff member 505869-9808.

Attention all gamers!! The Library will host

a Computer Game tournament featuring

the game HALO on Friday, May 29th

starting at 1:30pm. This will be open to

16 gamers and is first come, first serve.

“Slayer” will be the game of choice, the first

person to get 25 kills wins or who has the

most kills at the end of the round. The top

10 will advance to the next round; there

will be a total of 3 rounds. Prizes will be

given to 1st, 2nd and 3rd places. Please call

Christino at the Library for any additional

questions 505-869-9808.

Breaking Bad fans, did you hear we now

have a restaurant called the Hiensburger,

which opened up at the Isleta One Stop? The

Library will take 10 adults on the Breaking

Bad RV tour! What is the catch? Come into

the Library and sign up for our book club

based off the Philosophy of Breaking Bad

and critical thinking about the motives of

Walter White and the rest of the Breaking

Bad characters. The tour will take place

on May 30th and you must attend at least

4 out of 5 book club meetings where we

discuss readings from the book, review the

seasons of Breaking Bad and share our

thoughts on the Philosophical side of the

show. Please speak with Cheyenne or Tara

at the Library 505-869-9808.

Recap

Peralta Playhouse made a visit to the

Library on Friday April 17th and Monday

April 20th. Diane Abeita read the each

group of students a story called “Elephants

can’t jump” by Jeanne Willis. After the

story was done Diane led them into the Art

room to do a craft where they made paper

sunglasses and were able to decorate them

with sequins and beads. Thank you Peralta

Playhouse for coming to visit us and hope to

see you all again!

Our Fancy Shawl Dance group has come to

an end. For the past month and a half the

girls learned about Fancy Shawl Dancing,

outfit making, and powwow etiquette led

by Library staff member Tara Abeita. The

Girls had their first and final performance

at the Los Lunas/Valencia high school

honoring the seniors of 2015 powwow held

at the Isleta Recreation Center Saturday

April 18th. The Final weeks of the dance

program the parents, grandparents and

girls worked on their Fancy Shawl Regalia.

The group was able to get some practice in

before the performance and also practiced

at home in preparation. The girls were given

two songs back to back during the powwow

and danced their hearts out and made

their families proud. The ultimate goal of

this program was to build confidence and

pride of their Native American heritage,

expression through dance, design, sewing

and to bring families together. All the girls

showed dedication and patience during

the program while being energetic during

all practices held at the library. Thank

you to the parents, grandparents, friends

and families for supporting the girls. The

girls kept their outfits and are now able to

participate in local powwows and represent

the Isleta community proudly.

Girl’s Fancy Shawl Dance Group posing before Grand Entry at the Isleta Recreation

Los Lunas/Valencia High School Powwow Saturday April 18th.

May 2015

Isleta Pueblo News

Page 7

The LORD will fulfill

his purpose for me.

Psalm 138:8

Fancy Shawl Dance Group Performance during the powwow.

Hours of Operation:

Library Hours

Mon-Thurs - 8:00a.m. - 6:30p.m.

Friday8:00a.m. - 4:30p.m.

Saturday9:00a.m. - 1:00p.m.

Closed on Sundays, all federally recognized

holidays and also Isleta traditional holidays.

Please contact library for more

information on closures.

Mailing and Physical Address:

950 Moonlight Drive

Albuquerque, NM 87105

Phone: (505) 869-9808

Email: poi02002@isletapueblo.com

Facebook Page:

www.facebook.com/IsletaPuebloLibrary

Spinning and showing her moves

during the Fancy Shawl’s Dance Group

performance.

Web Address:

www.isletapueblo.com/library2.html

YouTube:

www.youtube.com/user/poilibrary

Thank you to the Isleta Pueblo

community and the St. Augustine

Parish community for all your prayers

during the recovery of our son, Soorwhee

(Damacio Chewiwi).

From the

Zuni and Chewiwi families

Isleta Pueblo News

Editor:

Nathaniel Lujan

Asst. Editor:

Tara Abeita

Published By:

Valencia Express

Page 10

Isleta Pueblo News

Parks & Recreation

May 2015

As I prepare my final newsletter prior to my retirement from the Pueblo of Isleta Parks & Recreation Department and I do it with heavy

heart but yet with great anticipation for what is to come. For everyone’s information, I have been in the Parks & Recreation business

for over 44 years of which 14 years was here at the Pueblo of Isleta. A good friend of mine once told me, “Rick, you will know when it is

time to retire” and I honestly believe I have come to that point to hang on up my tennis shoes and let someone else carry on the torch.

As I said to Governor E. Paul Torres, I honestly know that I am leaving a department that is well set in our budget, with employees, and

in the best possible shape as far as equipment and facilities are concerned. I have had the honor to build you a park system of 8 parks

that is second to none and have a staff that is totally committed to doing the best they can for the people we served, you tribal members.

We have upgraded most of our equipment (vans, rec. equipment, tractors swimming pool, etc) and have built a Park Management staff

that is equipped to maintain and build more parks if warranted. For this I leave with pride knowing all of our divisions: Parks, Aquatics,

Old Rec. and New Rec. will continue to function at a high level because of the standards we set over the years I served as your Director.

With that said, it’s time to let you know that our April 2015 was an extremely busy one for our staff and facilities by like always our staff

was up to the challenge. April 4th, we had the Easter Egg Hunt, April 11th we had two events, The 10 year Anniversary and Grand

Opening of the Isleta Little League Program, along with the Child Abuse Awareness Event. On April, 16th, we assisted with Child

Abuse Fun Walk/Run at Cottonwood. On Saturday, April 18th we hosted the Los Lunas/Valencia High School Pow Wow and the Bernie

Jojola Memorial Run as part of the start of the Pueblo Crossroads Program in Indian Country. And on Thursday, April 23rd, we will be

hosting the Child Abuse Awareness Grocery Bingo in our gymnasium.

Easter Egg Hunt

On Saturday, April 4th we hosted our

Annual Easter Egg Hunt that had over

5000 eggs for everyone to find. The age

categories were 5 and under, 6-9 year

olds, 10-11 year olds, 12 and up along with

our newest category for any adult who

was willing and able. Governor E. Paul

Torres was on hand to welcome everyone

along with Senator Tom Udall who came

by not only to greet the children and

their parents but to read a story to all the

children about how bills are passed in the

National level of Congress. The Easter

Bunny was also on hand to take pictures

with those children who were wanting

and willing to do so. Pictured on the first

picture is that of Governor E. Paul Torres,

Senator Tom Udall along with the Easter

Bunny and one of our youngest children

here for the event. The fourth picture

is of Senator Tom Udall reading a story

book of how bills are passed in Congress.

The other two pictures are of the children

with the Easter Bunny and of the several

hundred children who were on hand for

this beautiful event.

Los Lunas/Valencia High Pow Wow

On Saturday evening April 18th we were the host site

of the Annual Los Lunas/Valencia High School Pow

Wow hosted by the Native American Club of both high

schools. School Counselor Ben Analla and coordinator

Mike Abeita of this annual event were once again at

the helm making sure all dancers, drum groups and

vendors were properly placed and taken care of for this

beautiful presentation. Pictured on the first picture is

of Coordinator Ben Analla and of ROTC Commander

Eric Hedlund. The rest of the pictures are of vendors

and a young Pueblo/Dakota Sioux dancer who was in

preparation of the Grand Entry.

May 2015

Isleta Pueblo News

Page 11

Little League 10 year Anniversary

On the morning of Saturday, April 11th

Lt. Governor Isidor Abeita and Father

George were on hand to welcome and

bless the players and fields on this the

10th Anniversary of the founding of

the Isleta Little League program. Also

on hand was League President Vernon

Abeita and many of the past Board of

Directors from throughout the years

since the league’s formation.

First

League President and founder Charlene

Lucero was also present and had a few

words to say to all in attendance about

the creation of the league in its early

years. After the parade of all the teams,

fans and families were treated to a

barbecue and four baseball games with

our children from the Pueblo of Isleta.

Pictured are

several pictures

depicting the

event.

17th Annual Social Services / Child

Abuse Awareness Event

Also on Saturday, April 11th a second event took

place at the New Rec. Center regarding Child

Abuse Awareness Activities. Many programs

from throughout the State were on hand to help

celebrate Child Abuse Awareness Month held

throughout the Country along with Lt. Governor

Antonio Chewiwi who opened up the event with a

welcoming address and prayer. Besides the many

programs on hand advertising their services

and upcoming events for our Pueblo residents

many took advantage of the Rock Climbing and

barbecue. Pictured are Lt. Governor Antonio

Chewiwi and Isleta Police Chief Kevin Mariano

prior to welcoming and addressing all those who

were in attendance for this awareness event.

Also pictured is Social Services Director, Caroline

Daily at the Social Service booth.

Bernie Jojola Memorial Run

On Saturday, April 18th we hosted the

3rd Annual Bernie Jojola Memorial

Run at Big Momma Hill. We had

over 150 runners come to our Pueblo

of Isleta to participate from some 11

different Pueblos from throughout the

State. Taos Pueblo sent the most (19)

runners to be part of this the start

of the Pueblo’s Crossroads program

where Pueblos from throughout the

State of New Mexico are working

together to promote Health and

Wellness in Indian Country. All Pueblos who are part of this series will be hosting their own run beginning with ours the “Bernie

Jojola Memorial Run”. For more information about going to the different Pueblos for these runs, please contact our Cross Country

Coach, Phillip Abeita or Vanessa Martin at 869-9777. Pictured is Bernie’s family members (Phoenix, Karly, his brother Emil Jojola,

his daughter Raeann and son Carl) who were on hand to kick off this event. The second picture is of all the runners who were here to

participate.

Page 12

Isleta Pueblo News

May 2015

Karate Program

The Pueblo of Isleta Karate One Program did great in the Region 10

Tournament. All students from our program received Gold, Silver

and Bronze medals at the Regional AAU Karate Tournament held

in Albuquerque. Pictured in front (left to right) Danyeal Blackowel

(Bronze in both Kata and Kumite), Ryan Price (Silver in Kata

and Gold in Kumite), Andrew Correa (Bronze in both Kata and

Kumite), Back row (left to right) Michael Price (Gold in both Kata

and Kumite), Instructor Mr. Chavez, and Martin Olivas (Gold in

both Kata and Kumite). Not pictured Brooke Mosteller (Gold in

both Kata and Kumite). For more information about the Isleta

Parks & Recreation Martial Arts program please contact Mr.

Chavez at 869-9777 and leave a message.

Students test for Karate Belts.

Danyeal Blackowel (center front) and Martin

Olivas, students with the Isleta Parks &

Recreation Department Karate One Program

recently tested to their next belts. The test

took over 3 hours which included both a

physical test and written test. Blackowel is

now a yellow belt and Olivas is now an orange

belt. Instructor, Mr. Chavez 7th degree black

belt in Karate 6th degree in Japanese weapons

and 2nd degree in Nihon Jujitsu pictured on

back right.

Summer Program

Registration for our busy summer program will begin May 1,

2015 for both Old Rec. and New Rec. Programs. The Old Rec.

program will house the 4 & 5 year olds and registration must be

done in person with either Connie Olguin or Kimberly Chiwewe.

There is a registration limit open to the first 26 students ONLY.

Both programs begin June 1st until July 31st. The 4 & 5 year

old program times are from 9:00 am until 2:00 pm. The 6 year

olds and up housed at the New Rec. Center begins with walkins beginning at 7:00 am until 3:00 pm. Breakfast and lunch

will be served to all children 18 years and younger. If you don’t

enroll them here in our program, please put your children in

another Department’s program. Don’t forget the Library and the

Language program will be operating as well. Don’t let them stay

home in front of a television all summer long. We will have many

exciting and fun activities for them to do. All major field trips

will take place every Friday. The first one will be on Friday, June

5th going to Cliff’s Amusement Park. To qualify for every major

field trip you must be here at least 3-times per week. The only

exception is for those children attending summer school.

Rick Giron’s Closing Statement

To all people from the Pueblo of Isleta, my last day of serving you

as your Director will be on June 1st, which will be the opening day

of our summer program. I must say farewell to all the children.

In closing my long time career of 44 years I would like to thank

Governor E. Paul Torres and the entire previous Governors, along

with all the different Tribal Councils that I had the honor and

privilege to serve. And of course, I would not have enjoyed such

an incredible run of 14 years here without the beautiful people of

this great Pueblo of Isleta. For these 14 years and the 30 years

with the City of Albuquerque, I know I will miss. These 44 years

of public service have all been in the Parks & Recreation business,

and have been the best years of my life. With time comes a new

beginning. Mine, God willing, will be enjoying my family and doing

lots of traveling. To Governor Torres, it’s been my honor to have

served under your current administration knowing you are a firm

believer in your tribal traditions and yet with the understanding

of allowing your Department Directors to run their departments as

true professionals. To me, there is no greater honor than your bosses

believing in our ability to do so. God bless your administration and

this great Pueblo of Isleta.

Congratulations to Bekah and Rachel Lovato

Congratulations to Bekah and Rachel Lovato and the Hope

Christian girls’ basketball team for winning the Class 4A Basketball

State Championship. On March 13, 2015 the Huskies defeated the

defending state champions, Portales, with a score of 47-42. The

Hope Huskies are also the 2015 4A District Champions with a

district record of 9-0. The team ended the season with a 25-6 record.

Bekah, a senior, had 16 points and 9 rebounds in the championship

game! She is one of the team captains and displayed strong

leadership on and off the court. Just recently she was selected

to: 4A All-District Girls Basketball Team, 4A All-State Girls

Basketball 2nd team, Girls Basketball 4A All-Metro Honorable

Mention and was chosen to play on the 2015 4A Girls North/South

All- Star Basketball Team.

Hope Christian Huskies - 2014/15 4A Girls State Champions

Rachel, an 8th grader was also on the varsity team. She was a

full time starter for the J.V. team and was a reserve player on the

varsity team. Rachel also led the JV in steals.

Both of them represented the Pueblo of Isleta and Santo Domingo

well this season. We are happy to see that all of your hard work

has paid off. Both of them spent countless of hours working on

their game at the Isleta Recreation Center and having access to

this facility played a huge part in their success!

A HUGE thank you to all our family and friends who came out to

support and cheer on the Huskies this season.

We are all so proud of you!

Your loving Parents,

Joe and Marsha Lovato

From Left to Right: Joe, Bekah, Rachel, & Marsha Lavato

May 2015

TEST YOUR KNOWLEDGE:

ANSWERS

How Much Do You Already Know About

Infant Immunizations?

1. A pregnant woman passes antibodies to her

unborn baby through the placenta to protect against

certain diseases. About how long does this natural

immunity last after birth?

D. 3 Months. A pregnant woman passes on

antibodies to those diseases she herself is

immune to. That may last for 1 month to one

year, depending on a number of factors. And

women cannot pass on immunity to all vaccinated

diseases. So immunizations need to begin before

natural immunity wears off and to protect a baby

from all vaccine preventable illnesses.

2. Which vaccine is given soon after birth?

B. Hepatitis B. The CDC recommends that this

vaccine be given at birth and a second dose at

age 1 to 2 months; please discuss with your child's

health care provider to see whether a possible

third dose is needed at age 6 months. This vaccine

is especially important for infants who spend time

in day-care centers or if the mother is hepatitis

B positive, in which case the newborn is given

both hepatitis B immune globulin and hepatitis B

vaccine.

3. Bacterial meningitis strikes infants more often

than any other age group. Which vaccine will help

prevent one previously common type of meningitis?

B. Hib. Hib vaccine prevents Haemophilus

influenzae, type B infections, which can cause

meningitis, pneumonia, and epiglottitis. The

number of Hib meningitis cases have dropped

dramatically since the vaccine was introduced.

A meningococcal meningitis vaccine is also

available, starting at age 11 or 12, to protect

against another kind of meningitis.

4. What type of reaction commonly occurs after the

diphtheria, tetanus, and cellular pertussis (DTaP)

vaccine?

A. Swelling and tenderness at the injection

site. A high fever, continual crying, or limp, listless

behavior is signs of severe reaction that warrant a

call to the doctor.

5. When should an infant not be given a DTaP

vaccine?

D. All of the above. A mild illness, such as a

cold with or without fever, shouldn't prevent

immunization.

6. In the combined DTP immunization used in

the past, which of the three vaccine components

reportedly caused severe reactions?

B. Pertussis. Today, the pertussis vaccine is

acellular (the whole bacteria cell is not present)

and is denoted as DTaP, a much safer form with

minimal side effects.

Adapted from http://cholesterol.about.com/od/

aboutcholesterol

Isleta Pueblo News

Page 15

Page 16

Isleta Pueblo News

May 2015

Isleta Health Center:

Behavioral Health Services

Prevention Program

Phone: 505.869.5475

Prevention Program: Mental Health Awareness Month

Back in February, 4 Isleta youth voluntarily

“Test Your Knowledge about Mental Health”

attended a 2-day Mental Health Awareness

training. Glorianna Jaramillo, Richard

“Zach” Abeita, Lucas Jiron, and Michael

Zuni learned about Mental Health and the

importance of creating awareness, as well

as learning about the stigmas associated

with mental health. The youth are now

advocates of mental health through the

“Breaking the Silence” curriculum. The

youths’ take on mental health is illustrated

in the following write ups:

“Not that many people know what ‘mental

health’ is. Mental Health is a person’s

condition with regard to their psychological

and emotional well-being. A mental illness

is a condition and or disorder that affects

our moods”, writes Youth Mental Health

Advocate Glorianna Jaramillo.

“Some

examples of mental illness are Depression,

Anxiety, and Attention Deficit Hyperactive

Disorder (ADHD). Signs of depression

are helplessness, appetite changes, sleep

changes, loss of energy, and self-loathing.

Signs of anxiety are rapid breathing, weak/

tired, nervousness, sense of impending

danger, or panic. Signs of ADHD are

getting easily distracted, poor listening

skills, restlessness, and trouble relaxing,

trouble starting tasks/finishing tasks,

angry outbursts and prioritizing issues.”

“Many people do not know what causes

mental illness, but some say it is genetic.

Warning signs of mental illness are changes

in eating or sleep, substance abuse, intense

fear of weight gain, suicidal thoughts,

social withdrawal, excessive fears of

worries, confused thinking, hyperactivity,

persistent nightmares.” Glorianna states,

“There are more common celebrities who

suffer from mental illness, such as Johnny

Depp (anxiety), so does Oprah Winfrey.

Leonardo

DiCaprio

has

ObsessiveCompulsive Disorder (OCD). Russell Brand

has Bi-Polar, Demi Lovato has eating

disorders and Bi-Polar. Lady Gaga has an

eating disorder, and Snooki, Beyonce and

Jim Carrey have Depression. Anyone can

have and get a mental illness, even a wellknown celebrity.” Glorianna was asked

what her goals to help improve community

awareness are. She stated “she wants to

share her information with others. To do a

presentation or host a summit so others can

be aware of mental health awareness and

show how it can affect anyone.” She further

states that the community should be aware

of warning signs for mental health because

it can get to anyone, even for the people we

least suspect. Her final message, “Also, if

anyone they know shows symptoms, they

can help get that person the help they need

before it gets worse. If someone has families

or individuals with a mental illness, you

should get the help you need at a clinic, or

Behavioral Health Center or a therapist/

counselor.”

1. Serious mental illness can happen to any family.

True or False

2. The suicide rate for people who suffer from mental illness is 15%.

True or False

3. Psychopath and psychotic mean the same thing.

True or False

4. The great majority of people with mental health are not violent.

True or False

5. Substance Abuse (i.e., drugs and alcohol) may be a way for people

with mental illness to medicate themselves to relieve their

True or False

symptoms.

6. Mental illness and mental retardation is the same thing.

True or False

7. People with mental illness can really pull themselves together

if they really wanted to.

True or False

8. Mental illness strikes one in five people at some point in their lives. True or False

9. Mental illness is physical biochemical illness affecting the brain.

True or False

10. All people with mental illness live in their own world and

are completely out of contact with reality.

True or False

opportunity to visit the Santa Fe Mountain

What is Mental Health?

Center where they participated in both

Mental Health, according to The National High & Low Rope activities. Some notable

Alliance on Mental Illness defines Mental sessions dealt with pueblo culture and the

Health as “Disorders of the brain that ability to look at the Isleta culture and

can often profoundly disrupt a person’s traditional ways of life. On our second day,

thinking, feeling, mood and ability to relate the youth were engaged in two session

to others”

presentations: Native American Voter’s

Alliance (NAVA) and the Native Health

Types of Mental Illnesses

Initiative (NHI). They were presented with

Anxiety Disorders, Obsessive-Compulsive information on Positive Youth Development

Disorder (OCD), Eating Disorder, Attention and Community Mapping. On Wednesday,

Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD), the youth were given the opportunity to

Bipolar Disorder, Schizophrenia, Major or head out to the Pueblo’s Lakes and do some

Clinical Depression, Personality Disorder, fishing. While there, the youth were able to

Substance Use Disorder, Mood Disorder.

reel in four fish. In the evening, the youth

Anxiety disorders are illnesses that fill hosted a Bingo fundraiser. The fundraising

people’s lives with overwhelming anxieties has been a success and has helped the

and fears that are chronic and constant. youth develop their social skills, life skills

These are different from ‘normal’ anxiety and overall development. The youth are

like before a big test, big event, or big game. solely responsible for the events and

Some anxiety disorders are generalized they have made a huge success out of the

anxiety disorder, social anxiety disorder, fundraisers they have had. On Thursday,

Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) or the youth were taught and learned handsOCD.

on with a cooking class. The participants

OCD is a form of anxiety disorder, and were taught how to make blue corn tortillas

is characterized by repeated rituals and with corn grown in the IBHS Community

behaviors with high anxiety. A person Garden. They also learned how to prepare

has the feeling of the need to check things Jemez enchiladas and cookies. With the

repeatedly, or have certain thoughts or to help of community members they were

perform routines and rituals over and over. able to make a successful lunch they could

These thoughts and/or rituals can cause all enjoy. For Easter Monday, we provided

the youth with an outing to the Santa Fe

distress and get in the way of daily life.

Community College. Again, they were able

Bipolar is a mood disorder with extreme to participate in both High and Low Ropes

highs and extreme lows characterized by Course events. The high events featured

mania and depression.

the High Y, Rock Climbing Wall and the

Substance use disorder involves the most intense one, the Free Swing. At the

dependence on or abuse of alcohol and/or conclusion of Spring Break, the youth were

burnt out and not ready to get back into

drugs.

school mode.

Prevention Program: Spring Break

The Prevention Program will continue to

Week

meet after school until the end of the school

The youth participants of the Behavioral year. The summer program will begin on

Health Prevention Program were involved June 1, 2015. Anyone who is interested in

in activities during the week of Spring joining the program please contact IBHS @

Break.

On March 30, they got the 505.869.5475.

( Continued on next page )

Isleta Pueblo News

May 2015

Page 17

Day 3: Fishing

Day 1: Santa Fe Mountain Center

“Team Journey” High Event

Joseph and Zach starting off.

Hula Hoop Contest!

First catch of the day!

Glorianna and Mia.

Day 4: Cooking Class

Day 6: S.F. Community

College

“Challenge by choice” Zoey extending her

comfort zone! Go ZOEY!!

Rock Climbing Wall!

Youth hands on learning with

cookies.

WIC Program

What is WIC?

Who is eligible?

The WIC or Women, Infants, and Children Program serves

pregnant, breastfeeding, and newly post-partum mothers, as

well as infants until age 1, and children until they turn 5 years

old. We have a food package that includes whole grains, healthy

cereals, milk, fruits and vegetables, cheese, juice, and beans.

Pregnant women, breastfeeding and newly post-partum women,

infants until 1 year of age and children until they turn 5 years

old are encouraged to apply for the WIC Program. There are

income, residency and nutrition criteria that is screened at your

first appointment and if you qualify you can get your healthy food

package benefits and head right to the supermarket.

We also provide breast pumps and extra food for our breastfeeding

moms, as well as infant formula for infants under 1 year. Our

food packages are perfect for a family on a budget that wants to

stock their pantry with healthy foods.

We also help parents and caregivers to be their very best by

providing information on healthy pregnancies, breastfeeding,

infant feeding and nutrition tips for the entire family.

How can I apply?

Call our office at 505 869-2662 and we will be happy to schedule

you for our soonest available appointment. We will tell you what

you need to bring and with our flexible scheduling times and hours

of operation you can rest assured that we value your time and

understand your busy schedule. Call us now for an appointment

and we’ll see you soon!

Isleta Pueblo News

Page 18

May 2015

PUBLIC SERVICES DEPARTMENT

UTILITIES DIVISION

(505) 869-9782

Help Protect YOUR Water Supply

In these days of bottled water it is easy to

forget that you have a source of drinking

water right in your home!

The water

coming out of your tap has been pumped

out of the ground via wells, disinfected,

stored and distributed to every home,

business and public entity on the Pueblo

of Isleta. The water is tested for various

contaminants as per the Safe Drinking

Water Act regulations on a routine basis

to ensure the water you receive is safe.

provided for individuals to use to water

a garden, fill livestock tanks, etc. If you

would like to use water to irrigate a large

area, contact Edwin Jaramillo at 8699782 and he can work with you on how to

utilize the groundwater available to you

in your area instead of using the treated

water supply we all rely on.

The Utilities division would like to remind

you that it takes everyone to protect the

water supply here at the Pueblo. The

Utilities staff is responsible for providing

each and every resident and visitor with

safe drinking water on a continual basis.

Do You Have a Septic Tank on your

Property?

We cannot do this alone however. Once

the water reaches your property, we need

your help to protect this water from any

potential contamination.

By using a

simple device called a “vacuum breaker”

on any outside faucet or frost free, you will

prevent any water in the hose from going

back into the main water line due to a low

pressure situation, a water break or any

other possible issue.

If you are using large water tanks to haul

water to livestock – remember there are

two locations available to load the water

quickly and easily into the water tanks.

A truck loading station is available on TR

2 and a second station is located by the

Conservancy on TR 40. Both of these truck

loading stations provide an ample air-gap

between the pipe supplying the water

and your tank to protect the groundwater

supply.

If you are using a liquid chemical and

mixing it with water for use in a large

tank, be sure to use water from one of the

truck loading stations available for your

use. If it’s a smaller tank and you use

your water supply available at home, DO

NOT put the hose directly into the tank

to fill it. Keep the end of the hose above

the tank and let the water flow downward

into the tank. At no time do you want the

hose near the liquid in the tank! If a low

pressure issue were to occur, the liquid in

the tank could be back-siphoned into the

drinking water supply at your house, your

neighbor’s house and all of the distribution

system. This is also true for filling up any

stock tanks you may have as well.

The water distributed throughout the

Pueblo is for everyone’s benefit. The

flush and fire hydrants are used by the

utilities division to maintain the quality

of the water in the system. They are not

ARTICLE # 2

A septic system is an approved method for

disposal of wastewater from a dwelling.

There are hundreds of septic tanks

located here on the Pueblo of Isleta and

most of them are working well to protect

the environment from contamination.

A septic system works great if properly

maintained. The sewage from your home;

which includes the used water from

showers, sinks, bathtubs, laundry and

toilets; is sent thru pipes to the septic

tank. The tank has two areas, one for

the solids to settle in and the other where

the water leaves the tank and goes out

and disperses thru the leach field.

A

leach field can be a “mounded” system

which would include a pump to get the

water from the tank to the raised field, or

a gravity system which uses gravel with

perforated pipes or infiltrators instead of

gravel to spread the water throughout the

leach field. All methods work equally well

and are installed here on the Pueblo.

Some septic tanks have a filter installed

in the tank itself. Every six months or so

the homeowner should remove the filter,

clean it thoroughly and replace it. If the

filter is forgotten it will become plugged,

causing the sewage to back-up in the

system, eventually coming up in bathtubs

or other low areas in the home. If you

are un-sure if you have a filter or not

comfortable removing and cleaning the

filter, contact the Utilities division and

help is available.

Grease is a big problem for your septic

system. Grease can clog the pipes and the

tank where the water enters it. Grease

will build-up on the inside of the pipes and

tissue or paper towels can get stuck to the

grease, creating a blockage in the lines.

Please do not put any grease down the

drains of your home! Put grease in a can

to cool and then throw the cooled grease

in the trash. Try to limit the amount of

baby wipes, hygiene supplies and tissue

flushed down the toilet. These should be

thrown into the trash as well to prevent

the possibility of the pipes being blocked.

A few guidelines for septic tank

owners:

Do NOT plant trees near your tank, leach

lines or clean-outs. The roots from these

trees love to find a continuous source of

water. The problem is, the roots can find

a way into the tank, the leach line or the

service line and cause major problems for

you. Sewer can back up into your home

due to roots blocking the pipes. Roots in

a septic tank can grow so large that the

tank needs to be replaced. Roots can

crack the septic tank causing wastewater

to leak into the surrounding ground –

and with the natural groundwater levels

being so close to the surface, this is a

major contamination issue. Roots in a

leach line cause the smaller sized pipes

located there to become totally plugged

up – requiring new pipes or an entire new

leach field to be installed.

Take a tour of your property. Do you know

where the septic tank is located? Where

are the clean-outs for your home? Where

is the leach line for the system?

You should be able to easily see the cleanouts for the sewer piping. If not, try to

locate these because if you ever have

sewer backing up into your home, you will

want to have these clean-outs available

when Utilities or Housing arrives to find

and fix the problem.

If you do not see the tank lids for your

septic tank, try to locate them. If Utilities

is called out to pump out (clean) your tank,

access to the tank has to be available. You

should not be driving over your sewer pipe,

your tank or your leach field at any time or

for any reason. The pipes can be damaged

due to the weight of your vehicle/tractor,

the tank can be cracked or the lids knocked

down into the tank and the leach line can

be destroyed due to the traffic continually

driving over it. If you see any damage to

the clean-outs, the tank (missing lids) or

leach lines, contact Utilities and someone

will respond to assess the situation.

A properly working septic system should

give you no trouble at all.

Utilities

suggests that your tank be pumped out

(cleaned) at least once a year to help

maintain a good working system. If you

see wastewater surfacing anywhere near

the tank, pipe or leach field, contact us

immediately at 869-9782 and someone

will be out to inspect the system.

May 2015

May is Food Allergy

Awareness Month

Brought to you by Pueblo of Isleta WIC

Although about 15 million people in the United

States suffer from allergies to common foods,

many people don’t know very much about this

potentially deadly condition.

You may already know someone who has to bring

a special dish to a barbecue, or you might have

gotten a letter from your child’s school about a “nut

free” classroom. It’s easy to see how inconvenient

food allergies can be, but there is much more to

what sufferers of food allergies face every day.

It’s possible for any food to cause an allergy,

however about 90% of all food allergies are caused

by peanuts, tree nuts, milk, eggs, wheat, soy, fish

and shellfish. But what happens when allergic

people eat these foods can be dangerous, and even

fatal.

Mild and moderate symptoms of food allergies

include hives, eczema, itching of the mouth and

ears, stomach pain, nausea or vomiting, diarrhea,

nasal congestion, sneezing, and cough. Severe

symptoms include swelling of the lips, tongue or

throat that can cause trouble with breathing and

swallowing, shortness of breath and wheezing.

Feeling weak and fainting, chest pain, and loss

of consciousness are also possible. If the severe

symptoms are not treated immediately, they can

result in death.

Children make up about 5.9 million of the total

food allergy sufferers in the U.S. If your child is

one of them there are steps you can take to keep

your child comfortable, happy and safe. Kids may

describe a food allergy reaction in a way that is

difficult for adults to understand. They may say

that the food they are eating is too hot or spicy,

that their tongue feels heavy or funny, or they

may complain of an itchy tongue, mouth and ears.

Sometimes they describe it as having something

stuck in their throat or a tightness of the lips

and face. Other symptoms can be much easier for

parents to notice such as rashes, eczema, vomiting

and diarrhea. If you ever suspect your child is

having an allergic reaction contact your doctor as

soon as possible if the symptoms are mild and call

911 immediately if there are any signs of severe

symptoms.

Keeping your child safe every day at home and

school will require communication between you

and your child’s caregivers and school team. Your

child may have a plan in place that allows them to

carry medicine in case of a reaction, and that tells

school staff what to do in case of an emergency.

The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA)

requires that food labels include information

about potential allergens on all packaged foods

so that you can feel more confident when food

shopping. Your health care team will also give

you instructions and tips specific to your child’s

situation.

There are many resources to help you get educated

and advocate for your child, including foodallergy.

org, kidswithfoodallergies.org, and the American

Academy of Pediatrics website healthychildren.

org. Managing food allergies can be overwhelming

but you can help your child live a full, fun and

healthy life.

Isleta Pueblo News

Page 19