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Volume 18 Issue 9
Isleta Pueblo News
Pueblo of Isleta website: www.isletapueblo.com
September 2023
Governor’s Report
Maguwam,
Everyone, I hope this newsletter finds
everyone in good health. As we wrap up
summer and prepare for another school
year, I hope the children are adjusting to
schedules and school well. I want to remind
everyone to drink plenty of water, and stay
hydrated as the days continue in the high
heat. In addition, I just wanted to remind
if you are feeling sick, please stay home to
prevent the spread of any illness.
The
Governor’s
Office
met
with
Congresswoman Stansbury in-person on
August 3rd. We discussed her legislative
priorities during the meeting. Some key
issues she emphasized were education,
climate & environment, and veterans
affairs. We also discussed the need for
infrastructure funding for key projects
across the Pueblo. We look forward to
continued discussion and extend our
appreciation to Congresswoman Stansbury
and her staff for visiting the Pueblo.
community members, I called a meeting with
state, county, and city leaders to discuss the
impact of the fire and the environmental
protections in expanding development at
Mesa del Sol. I hosted that governmentto-government meeting at the Pueblo on
August 21st. The meeting was a strong start
to an open and transparent conversation
about the industrial development and
environmental safeguards in place at Mesa
del Sol. My administration will continue
to engage in ongoing consultation with
surrounding jurisdictions to provide input
in the industry moving into Mesa del Sol.
Director Clint Lente and Fire Chief Lester
Gary, I presented on important matters
to the Pueblo, including UXO clean up
and wildland fire management. I look
forward to our continued partnership with
Congressman Vasquez to address these
important public safety issues on the
Pueblo.
I also met with Isleta’s Congressman for
New Mexico District 2, Gabe Vasquez.
Together
with
Natural
Resources
Eugene and Denise Wade
I would like to take this time to thank all
the mayordomos, their families along with
our departments and staff in preparing for
The St. Augustine Feast on August 28th.
Mayordomos
Kevin and Patricia Lujan
Steven Jojola and Kaylee Jojola
As we continue to celebrate in honor of
St. Augustine, Isleta’s Patron Saint, the
Mayordomos would like to extend this
invite to join them for Vespers Mass on
September 3rd at 7pm with precession
traditional dances, food and The Daniel
Solis Live Band. The feast day to continue
on September 4th with Mass at 9am,
procession, traditional dances and food.
I would like to extend a big thank you, to
The Miguel Trujillo committee along with
tribal leaders for making this day possible.
We honored the 75th Anniversary of Miguel
Trujillo Event on August 3rd; he was the
brave civil rights advocate that paved
the way for Native Americans to exercise
their constitutional right to vote. We look
forward in preparing for next year, working,
and collaborating with other outside
departments in reaching our goals to carry
on in recognizing our tribal member!
Last, I want to send my condolences to the
families of those who have lost their family
members during the month of August.
Ha-Wuh
On, August 8, 2023, I attended President
Biden’s speech in Belen on Renewable
Energy. It was exciting to hear about the
future of renewable energy in New Mexico.
In response to concerns I received from
Max A. Zuni
Governor
Pueblo of Isleta
Brian Jiron 4 MRGCD 2023
Endorsed by Governor Max Zuni and Tribal Council
President Michael A. Lente
Good day to all and thank you for taking the time to read this
today.
My name is Brian Jiron. I am a Pueblo of Isleta member and fulltime farmer, and I am running for the Valencia County seat for
the Middle Rio Grande Conservancy District (MRGCD) Board of
Directors. Every Pueblo of Isleta member that has an address on
the Pueblo can vote for me even if you live in Bernalillo County. I
ask for your vote through mail-in voting or in person on October
3rd.
Please allow me to take a few minutes of your time to explain to
you why I am running and how you can support my candidacy. I
have lived and farmed here in Isleta my whole life and have had
the privilege of being a mayordomo on the Chical and the Ranchitos
sides. I have worked closely with the ditch riders from MRGCD
and seen a lack of communication with the farmers and a lack
of transparency in water concerns. This is exactly what I would
like to find a solution for. Water is central in our lives on so many
levels. I believe it is important that Isleta, as well as other Pueblos,
have a voice on policies that will affect the water distribution and
flow through our beautiful communities.
Voting is set to take place October 3rd. All registered Pueblo of
Isleta Tribal members that reside on the reservation are eligible
to vote, regardless of if you reside in Valencia County or Bernalillo
County. There will be a voting polling location on the Pueblo for
this special election. You can also vote by mail or vote early. For
more information, please visit my Facebook page at: Brian Jiron
4 MRGCD Valencia County 2023, website at brianjiron4mrgcd.
wixsite.com/vote or email me at brianjiron4MRGCD@gmail.com.
I hope I can count on my community to come out and vote for me,
Brian Jiron. Let me be the voice of Isleta, the voice for the other
Middle Rio Grande Pueblos, and the voice for Valencia County as
the next MRGCD Board of Director for Valencia County.
Page 2
Isleta Pueblo News
LETTER FROM THE EDITOR
DEADLINE for October Newsletter articles is set for
Wednesday, September 20, 2023, 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 may 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)
September 2023
September 2023
Isleta Pueblo News
Page 3
TRIBAL COUNCIL
Tribal Council is seeking interested candidates to fill a number of
vacant positions on boards and committees throughout POI. Tribal
members with diverse backgrounds are encouraged to apply.
Members will be compensated at the rate of $30/hour per meeting,
not to exceed $120.
Please send a letter of interest, along with a resume to:
tribal.council@isletapueblo.com.
Isleta Health Center External Health Board (Two-Year Term)
Seeking one new member with Public Health knowledge: A strong
understanding of public health principles and practices is beneficial
for developing effective strategies to address health disparities and
promote overall community wellness.
Higher Education Board (Two-Year Term)
Tribal Enrollment Committee (Three-Year Term)
Candidates must be a currently enrolled tribal member, must
be at least twenty-one (21) years of age, and may not be serving
concurrently on the Tribal Council or in any elected or appointed
position.
ISLETA TRIBAL COURT
Isleta Tribal Court is pleased to announce that we now have “Isleta
Tribal Court Rules of Civil Procedure”, published and approved
for use in Isleta Tribal Court. These are the rules that govern civil
proceedings in the Tribal Court. The rules were first adopted by
the Isleta Appellate Court and the Isleta Tribal Court, on August
18th 2023. The rules will assist litigants in properly preparing
their case to be heard in Isleta Tribal Court. The Isleta Tribal
Court Rules of Civil Procedure will assist community members
who represent themselves in civil matters, and will help with any
questions on courtroom conduct, forms, time limits, etc.
You can pick up a copy of the rules at the Isleta Tribal Court, or
you can find them on the internet at Isletapueblo.com.
Isleta Pueblo News
Page 4
Job Postings
Visit us online at
http://www.isleta.com/career-opportunities.aspx
Fax: 505-244-8232
September 2023
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.
September 2023
Isleta Pueblo News
Page 5
Tips for Parents:
• Set curfews:
Have a set curfew, but if you do
decide to extend curfew do not let
hours go by without checking on
your child. Know where they will
be and how long they will be there.
• Communicate your expectations:
Even though you might have
talked to your child about the
choices they make and how it will
affect them, it is always a good
idea to have the conversation
again especially around this time
of year.
• Trust:
Building trust with your child
is mutual; this builds a strong
relationship between child and
parent. This also allows for growth
and understanding.
• Boundaries:
Your child might want to go to a
celebration that is out of town or
at place you are not familiar with.
Allowing your child to attend
these celebrations might create
a safety risk for your child and
yourself. Make sure you discuss
your concerns and make your
decisions based on the outcome of
your conversation.
Isleta Pueblo News
Page 6
September 2023
Pueblo of Isleta Career Opportunities
Position Posting
Office Location
Closing Date
Position Posting
Office Location
Closing Date
September 2023
Isleta Pueblo News
Page 7
ALBUQUERQUE PUBLIC SCHOOLS (APS)
Greetings from Indian Education at Albuquerque Public
Schools!
Enrollment in all APS schools is open to all students who
reside in Isleta with free busing available to the following
schools:
Los Padillas Elementary School
Polk Middle School
Rio Grande High School
To register, the first step is for one parent to log in to
ParentVue, If you do not have a ParentVue account, you can
create one here:
https://www.aps.edu/students-parents/parentvue-studentvue/
create-your-parentvue-account
Registration for each of your children is completed through
your ParentVue account. There is currently a bug in the
system for many home addresses. If you have difficulty, please
use the school address for Los Padillas (2525 Los Padillas Rd
SW, Albuquerque, NM 87105) to complete registration and
then work with your child's school to fix the address when you
visit the school.
If you would like for your child to attend one of the other 145
APS schools, you can place a transfer request to the APS school
of your choosing. As a member of the Pueblo of Isleta, who
resides in Isleta, your transfer is given the highest priority.
The transfer request process can be found here:
https://www.aps.edu/schools/transfers/new-students-requeststudent-id-and-transfer
Please be sure to select the reason for your transfer as
"residing on non-taxable trust lands within a 50 mile radius
of Albuquerque" so as to ensure your transfer request receives
priority.
Phil Farson
Senior Director
APS Indian Education Department
505.884.6392 ext 80039
"BE ON THE LOOKOUT" URGES
NEW MEXICO POISON CENTER
It's snake season in New Mexico, and the New Mexico
Poison and Drug Information Center has some tips to
keep you safe:
•
Always be aware of your surroundings.
•
Walk in areas where the ground is clear so you
can see where you step.
•
Be aware of where you sit especially in shady
areas.
•
Wear protective clothing, such as long pants and
hiking boots.
•
Wear gloves when using your hands to move
brush or rocks. Don't reach into cracks in rocks,
animal burrows or under bushes.
•
Don't walk around at night or sleep on the
ground - snakes are most active at night.
•
Don't tease, kill or handle a rattlesnake.
•
If you encounter a snake, don't panic or blindly
run away. Look carefully where you are going.
•
Call the New Mexico Poison Center for
poisoning emergencies, questions about
poisons, or for information about poison
prevention, 24 hours a day, toll free at
1-800-222-1222.
•
For removal of the snake call: Animal Control at
Isleta Pueblo Wildland Enforcement Officers
Dispatch
Page 8
Isleta Pueblo News
September 2023
ST. AUGUSTINE PARISH
Dear Parents,
Greetings from St. Augustine Parish, I hope this message
finds you in good health and high spirits. As we navigate
the challenges and joys of parenthood, I wanted to take
a moment to reflect upon the importance of catechism
for our children.
Catechism, or religious instruction specifically designed
for young minds, plays a vital role in our children's
spiritual development. It provides a solid foundation,
equipping them with the knowledge and understanding
of their faith. Through catechism, our children learn
about the teachings, values, and traditions of our faith,
enabling them to form a strong connection with their
spirituality.
In this fast-paced world filled with distractions and everchanging ideologies, catechism serves as an anchor
in ensuring our children have a firm grounding in their
beliefs. It helps them cultivate a moral compass, make
well-informed decisions, and develop a sense of purpose
as they grow into responsible adults.
By participating in catechism, our children become
active members of their faith community. They learn the
importance of unity, empathy, and support, as they share
their spiritual journey with peers and mentors. Catechism
fosters a sense of belonging and surrounds our children
with individuals who share the same values, creating a
supportive environment for their spiritual growth.
Furthermore, catechism provides opportunities for
our children to build a personal relationship with God.
By getting deeper into the scriptures, teachings, and
prayers, they can develop a genuine understanding of
their faith. Catechism provides a safe space for them
to ask questions, seek answers, and explore their
spirituality in a nurturing and encouraging setting. This
connection with God not only brings comfort and solace,
but also empowers our children to face life's challenges
with resilience and courage.
As parents, we play a crucial role in guiding and nurturing
our children's spiritual journey. By encouraging and
embracing catechism, we demonstrate the importance
we place on their faith and provide them with the
tools to navigate through a world that can sometimes
be confusing and overwhelming. An investment in
catechism is an investment in their future, as it equips
them with the values and principles that will shape
their character, decision-making, and relationships
throughout their lives.
Let us take this opportunity to prioritize catechism for our
children, not only by enrolling them in religious education
programs but also by actively engaging in conversations
about their faith at home. Let us make time to pray
together, study scripture, and attend church as a family,
creating a strong foundation of shared beliefs.
May we embrace the gift of catechism, recognizing
its significance in shaping our children's spiritual wellbeing. Through catechism, we encourage in them a love
for their faith, a deep understanding of their beliefs, and
a strong connection to God and their community.
Thank you for your dedication to your children's growth
and for prioritizing their spiritual development. Together,
let us guide them on their path of faith, nurturing their
souls and helping them become the compassionate,
resilient, and grounded individuals they are meant to be.
With warmest regards,
Fr. Milton Thomas O. Praem.
Pastor, St. Augustine Parish Isleta
The catechism registration fee will be $20 per child. If
two or more children from the same family register, the
third and fourth children will be registered for free.
To register, please call Margaret Zuni at (+1 505-2647296) between 10:00 am and 01:00 pm on weekdays.
Last date to register September 10.
September 2023
Isleta Pueblo News
Page 9
CENSUS / TRIBAL ENROLLMENT DEPARTMENT
Tribal Council recently passed the new updates to the Census/Tribal
Enrollment Department By-laws and Enrollment Ordinance, which
took effect on August 01, 2023. Part of those changes were address
updates.
Address Updates:
Please make sure to update your address each time you move so
our office has the most current information on file. We have noticed
a lot of address issues within the Census and Treasury department
during the past distributions. Our office is the main source that other
departments use to verify information. You may also call our office to
verify your information regularly to avoid any issues.
New Address update policy:
Address Change
a) Tribal members are responsible for maintaining a current
address with the Tribal Census/Enrollment Department.
b) Acceptable documentation of a change of address shall include
at least two (2) of the following:
1. A valid, state issued driver’s license or government-issued
identification card listing the new address.
2. A current utility bill with the requester’s name and address
listed on the statement. Eligible utilities bills shall include propane
bills.
3. Current insurance card or bill showing the requestor’s name
and address.
4. Current real property rental agreement or purchase agreement
showing the requestor’s name and address.
5. State Medical or Public Assistance with requestor’s name and
address on card, letter from issuing agency showing requestor’s
name and address, or profile print out from issuing agency
showing the same.
6. Bank or credit card statement not more than 60 days old.
7. Employment pay stub containing requestor’s name and
address.
8. Documentation from an education institution such as a
transcript, report card, or enrollment information.
9. A notarized change of address authorization.
Tribal Identification Cards:
Tribal Identification cards will be issued every Tuesday and Thursday
by appointment.
Reminder** ALL TRIBAL IDENTIFICATION CARDS HAVE AN
EXPIRATION DATE OF FIVE (5) YEARS.
**ALL REQUIRED DOCUMENTS MUST BE ON FILE WITH THE
TRIBAL ENROLLMENT/CENSUS OFFICE PRIOR TO RECEIVING
A TRIBAL IDENTIFICATION CARD. **
Birth and Certificates:
State of NM Birth Certificates may be obtained through the Census/
Tribal Enrollment Department. We will continue to make monthly
visits to New Mexico Vital Statistics on behalf of tribal members.
An Authorization form must be signed and notarized at the Census/
Tribal Enrollment Department giving Director or Enrollment Clerk
authorization to obtain Birth Certificate on behalf of Tribal Member.
The cost for each certified certificate is $10.00 each with cash, check
or money order payable to: NM Vital Records Office. P.O. Box 25767
Albuquerque, NM 87125
Death Certificates:
There have been many questions regarding the death certificate
process. As a reminder, the Pueblo of Isleta, Census/Tribal Enrollment
Department will kindly assist family members in the completion
of death certificates of all Tribal Members. Paperwork needs to be
completed by the family before starting the process on the state
system. Paperwork can be picked up at the Census office.
Once the death certificate has been approved and registered with
the NM State Vital Office, an Authorization form must be signed and
notarized at the Census/Tribal Enrollment Department giving Director
or Enrollment Clerk authorization to obtain Death Certificate on behalf
of the family.
All Certified Death Certificate copies are $5.00 each with cash, check
or money order payable to: NM Vital Records Office. P.O. Box 25767
Albuquerque, NM 87125
Residence Ordinance:
Any non-tribal member wishing to reside on the reservation must have
a residence ordinance application on file. Applications are available
for pick up only at our office. This ordinance is being enforced by
Governor’s and IPD, please make sure your application is up-to-date.
Due to delays in background checks, this application can take up to
6 weeks or longer to complete. Note: only one non-tribal member
can be sponsored by enrolled tribal member (over the age of 18) per
household. Any minor non-tribal members do not need an application.
Please verify with our office the status of your application or any
concerns you may have.
Please contact the Pueblo of Isleta Census/Tribal Enrollment
Department at (505) 869-9766 if you have any questions.
Census/Tribal Enrollment Staff,
Nanette Coriz, Director
Ashlee Abeita, Enrollment Clerk
Linda Sue Dawn LeBeau, File Clerk
Isleta Pueblo News
Page 10
September 2023
DEPARTMENT OF EDUCATION
Academic Success Office
Michelle “Shelly” Valdez & Jolynn “Jo” Martinez
(505)869-9790
Happy September students and families,
Most of the students have completed the
first month of high school. I hope that you
are all taking your studies seriously and
staying on top of your assignments. Once you
start to miss assignments you tend to make
it a habit, and you think you cannot catch
up on them, do not make this an excuse.
Make your education a no excuse zone!
The Department of Education has tutoring
services to offer Monday – Thursday 3:00
pm – 6:00 pm, take advantage of the extra
help and sign up.
Kendra Edaakie
Los Lunas High School
This month we had the
pleasure of getting to know Kendra Edaakie,
a senior at Los Lunas High School. She is
the daughter of Laura and Robert Edaakie.
She has an older sister and one younger
brother that is in school. She describes
herself as being funny, pretty, athletic,
hardworking, and smart. This summer she
worked as an intern for Pueblo of Isleta
Behavioral Health Services.
Kendra has been an athlete since she began
playing T-ball at an early age. She plays
softball for the Los Lunas Tigers. One of
her achievements this past May was being
named to the All- Academic Team for having
the highest GPA of all varsity athletes. She
has a GPA that is over a 4.0 and ranked
15 out of 293 seniors at Los Lunas High
School. She also likes snowboarding in the
winter months when there is snow.
In her spare time, Kendra enjoys sleeping.
When she is not busy with school and sports,
she likes to spend time with her two ducks,
Millie and Bolt. A treat she likes making is
alfredo. One of her likes in school is math
or chemistry. She finds learning about
neurons and protons is interesting.
One person she attributes her motivation
to do well is her father, Robert. He too
enjoys math and his accounting skills
have rubbed off on Kendra. Her dad is her
biggest motivator. He pushes Kendra to do
her best because he knows she can do well
if she tries.
One characteristic that Kendra failed
to mention was that she is a comedian.
Working alongside her in the classroom, she
is often softly giggling with her friends. She
appears to be shy but until the interview,
we believe she is the one making everyone
in her surroundings laugh. When asked
what she plans to do after high school, she
said while laughing, “Live with my mom
and dad.” Dad looked at her in surprise.
Seriously, she wants to be working with
newborns in the hospital and maybe have a
family of her own.
A couple of
achievements
she wishes to
attain before
graduation is
to be ranked
in the Top 10
of her senior
class,
she
is
currently
top 15. Her
second
goal
is to get her
4-year letter
in National Junior Honor Society. So far,
Kendra has received the 1st year, 2nd year,
and 3rd year letter for NJHS. Her advice to
her fellow classmates to be successful and
don’t get discouraged. Work harder. Try
not to procrastinate with homework. Try
to get as much of it done in school. Kendra
learned that procrastinating has put her in
a bind a time or two and caused her to have
to work late into the evening hours. Study
and learn to make and use note cards. Some
teachers will allow you to use them for tests.
Kendra finds that studying in her room
where it is quiet helps her stay focused.
Learn to find your quiet zone. Remember
to try to complete all assignments and even
if it is not complete, turn it in because most
times you will still get a passing grade,
which is better than a zero. By studying,
you will see that it reflects
in your grades. Lastly, keep
it up! Push hard to the end,
can’t slack now….finish out
strong!
Happy September college students,
As you start a new chapter in your life
remember these few things: time is now
in your hands, make it count, practice
good habits, and remember to ask for help.
College will be fun but can be challenging
when you think times are getting tough do
not give up, step back analyze the situation
and find the solution. The Department of
Education offers tutoring services Monday
– Thursday 3:00 pm – 6:00 pm as well as
varsity tutors online at your convenience.
Once you feel that classes are getting
tough sign up and take advantage of these
services.
Our Higher Education and Academic
Success staff had a brief meet and greet
to connect our two students that will be
attending University of Hawaii in Manoa
this fall. We have Aliyah Zuni and Shontae
Abeita. Both girls are excited to start their
college years in a land surrounded by ocean.
Advice, get all applications for admissions
and dorms in as soon as possible and have
a secondary college as a backup if the first
college you choose is not an option.
Shontae is the daughter of Tanisha Reid.
She is a recent graduate from Valencia
High School. While in high school, she
academically lettered three times, was in
National Honor Society, played in honor
bands, All-State Band, and was on the
student council.
Shonae is planning to pursue a degree in
creative media. She wants to be able to
discover many different types of creative
parts of the world. She is described as being
observant. This helps her take a different
look at things from another point of view.
Shontae describes herself as a creative
person with technology savvy skills. One
day she hopes to return to the Pueblo of
Isleta and use her creative art genius for
others to see or hear whether it is in music
or print.
While in Hawaii Shontae hopes to learn
to overcome her fear of water and learn to
surf.
Aliyah Zuni is the daughter of Sara Zuni.
She is a recent graduate of Los Lunas High
School. She was in student council and
served as the treasurer. She is going to
college to obtain a degree in nursing.
She is looking forward to her new adventure
while she is away. She is going to miss
not being able to be home for traditional
ceremonies. She wants to learn how to surf
in her free time.
HIGH EDUCATION
We would like to highlight and congratulate
Warren Chewiwi, an incoming freshman
at New Mexico Tech, who was recently
a recipient of the SMA Native American
STEM scholarship. We wish you a successful
first year on your college journey.
To all POI Higher Education scholarship
recipients, we wish you a successful school
year!
Please make sure to keep us updated on any
achievements throughout the school year.
September 2023
POI Scholarship Deadline
Spring Semester- November 1st
The link for the application will open in October.
Volunteer Opportunities for
POI Scholarship Recipients
Volunteers will be needed for upcoming events
throughout the school year. As required,
each recipient of the POI scholarship must
volunteer a minimum of 10 hours per term.
We will have volunteer opportunities to help
those requirements, be on the lookout for those
opportunities.
Higher Education Team
Greetings,
I would love to extend gratitude to the community
members who attended our Back to School Fair.
Your attendance made the fair marvelous. I would
also like to express appreciation to the families
who have picked up school supplies during the fair.
If you still need to pick up your student’s school
supplies, please feel free to come to the Department
of Education located at 950 Moonlight Dr. SW
Albuquerque, NM 87105 between the hours of
8:00 am–4:30 pm. For the 2023-24 school year
the Department has distributed approximately
400 backpacks and school supply kits. If you need
additional supplies please contact the office. This
supply distribution is only one example of the
many services that the Department of Education
offers. Your participation and support help us to
understand the needs of the community.
I would like to remind parents and students of the
educational services that the Department offers.
Please remember that we have our reimbursement
program where you may be reimbursed for various
fees incurred within primary and secondary
education. To apply for this, use the link below,
you will need all original receipts, class schedule
and a W-9. The Department also offers tutoring
services which started the 21st of August. The
tutoring sessions are scheduled from 3pm-6pm
Monday through Thursday. These sessions will
feature a one hour session of enrichment where
students will apply skills learned in the classroom.
If you wish to apply for these services, please use
the QR Code provided or the formstack link found
on the Department’s website.
Sincerely,
Michael S. Cheromiah
Registration and
Contact Update
Educational
Assistance
Tutoring Services
Reimbursement
Isleta Pueblo News
Page 11
Isleta Pueblo News
Page 12
Isleta Pueblo News
Editor:
Nathaniel Lujan
Asst. Editor:
Diane Abeita
Published By:
Valencia Express
September 2023
September 2023
Isleta Pueblo News
Page 13
Page 14
Isleta Pueblo News
September 2023
TRUANCY
Greetings from the Truancy Department,
We are excited for the beginning of the 2023-2024 school
year as we continue working with our students and
parents. We also look forward to communicating working
and continue with Los Lunas and Albuquerque Public
Schools, the Native American Community Academy and
Santa Fe Indian School, and other POI Departments, as
well.
The Truancy Department was glad to take part in
events over the summer months. Events included the
school supply distribution with the Department of
Education and National Night Out with the Isleta Police
Department. It was amazing to see families from the
community participate in both events and to see that the
students all had a great time. We were also happy to
attend Santa Fe Indian School for their dorm check in
and to provide our Isleta students with back to school
items, such as snacks, toiletries, and duffel bags.
In working with the schools that our Isleta students
attend, we are communicating to ensure that our
students attend school daily and become successful with
their education. On page15 you will find the Attendance
Plan set in place by the Los Lunas Public School District
which is being utilized in meeting with any parents
regarding their child(ren).
A request has been sent to the Albuquerque Public School
District for their Attendance Plan; this information will
be shared in next month’s newsletter. Please feel free to
call the school or the Truancy Department if you have
any questions.
As always, we look forward to celebrating all the
successes that our Isleta students achieve. If you would
like assistance or have any questions, we are always
here to provide that support to you.
Have a wonderful Labor Day/Feast Day!
Isleta Truancy Department
Yolanda, Kaylee, Christine and Jared
September 2023
Isleta Pueblo News
Dr. Ryan Kettler,
Superintendent
P. O. Drawer 1300
Los Lunas, NM 87031
Attendance Plan • Requirement: All students between
the ages of 5 and 18 must attend
school daily.
• Definition: Chronic Absence is when
a student misses 10% or more of the
school year for any reason, excused or
unexcused.
• Definition: A student is absent when
not in school or a class with or without
the prior knowledge and consent
of parents, guardians, or school
personnel. A student not in class but
on a school approved activity will have
the absence recorded as “excused”
(see Verified Absence below.)
•Definition:A school-approved
extracurricular activity is when a
student not is in school or class as
a result of participation in a schoolsponsored/sanctioned event, practice,
competition, contest, meeting etc.
Students are permitted a total of fifteen
(15) school-approved extracurricular
absences per semester.
Verified Absences (excused):
• A student is absent from school
with prior knowledge and consent
of a parent and written verification
to the school. A student is absent
from school with personal illness,
doctors’ appointments, death in
the family, religious commitment,
diagnostic commitment, extenuating
circumstances, as agreed by the
administrator prior to the absence and
approved school activities. Student
must verify absences by written
method within 24 hours of returning to
school.
• Upon returning from an absence(s),
student(s) shall request makeup work
and will have one day per one day of
absence to make up work unless the
teacher and/or school administrator
allow additional time.
• Students will be expected to take
final exams and End of Course exams
on the day they are scheduled.
Students may be allowed to make up
final exams and End of Course exams
if the absence is excused.
All absences (excused & unexcused):
• TIER 1. A student will be in need
of whole school prevention when a
student has an absentee rate below
5% to include excused and unexcused
absences. Whole school prevention
strategies will be implemented to
support attendance. Attendance
supports may include activities (such
as whole school campaigns), class
attendance competitions, parental
Page 15
Bosque Farms Elementary
Deanna Herrera, Principal
Phone 505-866-0185
Fax: 505-866-0302
notification of student absence
through tele-parent or electronic
communication, positive behavioral
supports (PBIS) to create welcoming
school/classroom climates, education
nights, social contracts, extra-curricular
activities, and attendance incentives.
• Tier 2. A student will be in need of
individualized prevention when a
student reaches 5%-9.9% of absentee
rate to include excused & unexcused
absences. A phone call will be made
from the school site to the parent or
guardian to talk to the parent of the
student about attendance history,
impact of absences on academic
outcomes, interventions and services
available and consequences of further
absences.
• Tier 3. A student will be a student
in need of early interventions when a
student reaches 10%- 19.9% absentee
rate to include excused & unexcused
absences. A letter will be sent from the
school site to the parent or guardian
(date, time, place) requesting a
meeting with the attendance team to
provide intervention strategies that
focus on keeping the student in an
educational setting.
• Tier 4. A student will be in need of
intensive support when a student
reaches 20% or more of absentee
rate to include excused & unexcused
absences. A letter will be sent from the
school site to the parent or guardian
(date, time, place) requesting a
meeting with the attendance team
or principal to establish non-punitive
consequences at the school level and
to identify appropriate specialized
supports that may be needed to help
the student address the underlying
causes of excessive absenteeism.
Parent(s) and student(s) will be
advised of consequences of further
absences.
Student/Family referral to CYFD:
• The Attendance for Success
Department will after consultation with
the attendance team, administrator or
designee shall report the student to the
Valencia County Juvenile Probation
and Parole Office for investigation
as to whether the student should be
considered to be neglected or a family
in need of services.
• If JPO determines that the student is
a child in a family in need of services,
a caseworker shall meet with the
family at the school site to determine
if there are other services that may be
rovided. The meeting shall include the
principal or other school personnel,
and unless the family objects in writing,
any appropriate community service
partners that assist Valencia County
children and families. The Children
Youth & Families Department shall
determine if additional interventions,
including monitoring, will positively
affect the student(s) attendance
behavior.
Native American Students:
• Notification and referrals will be made
to the tribal attendance office in which
a tribal student resides for intervention
services.
Student Attendance Success Teams:
• Each school site will maintain a
Student Attendance Success Team
that will address attendance related
issues. The student success team will
be composed of an administrator(s),
counselor(s), teacher(s), attendance
secretary, attendance liaison
coordinator, and any other personnel
deemed necessary by the school
administrator.
• The Los Lunas Schools Attendance
Department will keep a data base of all
students that are receiving intervention
services and to ensure that the service
providers are supporting the student
and family.
• The Los Lunas Schools Attendance
Department will conduct home visits
and coordinate interventions with
families or students that are in need of
services.
Crisis Situations:
• During a crisis, the attendance plan
will be followed by the Los Lunas
School District.
• Hybrid Learning- Every student is
required by the Los Lunas Schools
and in compliance with State of New
Mexico to attend all instructional
classes daily. Teacher(s) will be
required to take attendance for each
class period of instructional learning.
The administrator(s) will ensure that all
attendance is taken by teachers and
correctly reported for each instructional
class period.
• Virtual Learning- - Every student is
required by the Los Lunas Schools
and in compliance with State of New
Mexico to attend all instructional
classes daily. Teacher(s) will be
required to take attendance for each
class period of instructional learning.
The administrator(s) will ensure that all
attendance is taken by teachers and
correctly reported for each instructional
class period.
Isleta Pueblo News
Page 16
ISLETA FIRE DEPARTMENT
3950 Hwy 47
Albuquerque NM,87105
505-869-9724
Joseph Kuziel
Luis Cardoza
Royce Waconda
Devin Chacon
The Pueblo of Isleta Fire Department would like to say welcome to
the four newest staff members of the Isleta Fire Department.
PUEBLO OF ISLETA VETERANS’
ASSOCIATION
The Federal and State Veteran Affairs Departments
were at our veteran center for six weeks every Friday
ending in May 2023.
The purpose of the veteran affairs was to assist our Isleta
veterans and their spouses on issues they might have.
We are in need of young veterans to participate with our
color guard details. Should you be interested, please call
vice commander, Mike Lucero, at (505) 288-4098.
There are several tribal members who are enlisted in the
armed forces who will eventually become veterans. We
would like to know the names and addresses of these men
and women. Please let Elaine Lucero know by calling her
at (505) 401-6250.
The storage building is almost complete. We have had
supply chain issues. The building was purchased to
house a tractor along with all the implements which
will be used to farm the 4 acres at the veterans’ field.
This building was purchased by the state of New Mexico
capital outlay funds. The Pueblo of Isleta helped with
the cost as the estimate was pre pandemic when it was
estimated.
COME JOIN THE TIWA AA MEETING
ON THURSDAYS
FROM 6:10 PM TO 7 PM
B’EEH K’OO-EE WELLNESS
TRAINING CENTER
ISLETA HEALTH CENTER COMPLEX
01 SAGEBRUSH ST. SW
ALBUQUERQUE, NM 87105
September 2023
September 2023
Isleta Pueblo News
Page 17
Construction Zone Safety Advisory
We have an important message for the Residents who
live, work, or attend school near the construction zones
on Moon Light Drive: “Stay safe by staying out."
With many projects planned and currently under
construction across the Pueblo of Isleta, we are seeing
people walking, jogging, riding bicycles, or playing in
construction areas. This puts kids and adults at risk of
serious injuries or worse.
The Construction areas have large trucks and heavy
equipment working in close quarters, deep trenches
and drop offs, uneven ground and other hazards.
Staying out of our work zones keeps us all safe and
helps us do our jobs as efficiently as possible.
We're focused on safety as our primary goal and
dedicate ·significant resources to make all projects
safe. Protective equipment is required for all workers
and site visitors. Safety performance is a key metric
for project teams and is continually monitored and
improvements are necessary to ensure that workers
are able go home safely to their families each night.
You can help us by reminding your family, friends and
neighbors to stay out of work zones. Please make sure
that your kids, especially, know not to play in work
zones or on construction equipment.
Here are some safety tips to keep in mind:
•
Don't walk, jog, or ride bikes in construction
zones.
ENVIRONMENT
Monthly surface water quality results
•
Find a different way if a construction zone
temporarily affects your walking route.
•
Don't play on or near construction equipment.
•
Obey posted warnings and never go beyond
construction fences, barriers or barrels.
•
Be careful around heavy equipment. If you
can't see the driver, he/she cannot see you.
DID YOU KNOW?
There are no substitutes for blood, platelets or
plasma—they cannot be manufactured. Patients
in need of blood or blood products must rely on
donations from people like you. Those who are
hesitant about donating blood for the first time often
find that the donation process is easy and that saving
lives is deeply gratifying.
*Water quality samples are collected from the Rio Grande except Indian
Interior Drain at 240 Wasteway, Albuquerque Riverside Drain, and the
irrigation locations.
- Dash in data table indicates sample not collected.
“MPN” is a unit of measure that stands for most probable number. MPN is
equivalent to colony forming units (“CFU”).
The Pueblo of Isleta’s most stringent surface water quality standard for E. coli
bacteria is 88 MPN/100 ml at all times and at all flow rates.
Following closure for safety reasons, fishing in the Rio Grande is allowed.
Please continue to watch signage at the NM 147 bridge.
Notes regarding surface water quality sampling:
On September 30, 2022 one sampling event was conducted to measure the
concentration of pesticides and herbicides at 4 sample locations: the drain near
NM 45 and Interstate 25, Atrisco Riverside Drain, NM 147 and the Albuquerque
Riverside Drain near the Northern Boundary. All results were non-detect.
Irrigation waters on the west side were shut off around March 22, 2023 for
flushing.
If you have questions about surface water quality, contact Ramona Montoya,
Water Quality Control Officer, at 505-869-7565.
One donation can save multiple lives. Here are
the facts:
•
Just one donation can save up to 3 lives.
•
The average red blood cell transfusion is 3
pints (or three whole-blood donations).
•
More than 1 million people every year are
diagnosed with cancer for the first time.
Many of them will need blood—sometimes
daily—during chemotherapy.
•
More than 38,000 blood donations are
needed every day.
•
Type O-negative whole blood can be
transfused to people with any blood
type, but this type of blood is rare, and
supplies of it are low.
•
Type AB plasma can be transfused to
patients with all other blood types, but it is
also in short supply.
•
While 38% of the American population is
eligible to give blood, only 2% actually
donates.
Isleta Pueblo News
Page 18
September 2023
Pueblo of Isleta Public Library
School is in full effect and summer is coming to an end with the breeze of fall
creeping its way in. We are entering the season of months that end with “ber”
which means fresh roasted Green Chile, State Fair, Balloon Fiesta, Pumpkin Spice
and of course we cannot forget the upcoming Feast Days and all the delicious food.
The library’s calendar is filling up fast with programs to fit the season.
News
The library will be closed on Saturday,
September 2nd and Monday, September
4th in observance of the Labor Day holiday.
All library media checked out on Thursday,
August 31st and Friday, September 1st
will be due on Tuesday, September 5th.
We apologize for ay inconvenience this may
cause. Enjoy your Labor Day weekend and
official end to summer!
The library will be having a staff meeting on
Wednesday, September 6th from 12:30pm
to 2pm. The library will remain open during
this time so feel free to still come in. We will
be discussing upcoming programs, and as
the holiday months are approaching keep
a look out for family programs, book clubs,
arts-n-crafts and much more!
School is back in session which means
students are everywhere. With that said,
the library would like to remind you all to
PLEASE be aware of flashing school zone
lights and obey School Bus Stop Signs as we
have students walking, riding bikes, skate
boarding and so on. The Head Start Story
Time will also be starting soon so that they
will be walking to the library, so keep a look
out for them as well.
On August 16th Family Story Time made
its return after taking a break during the
summer to focus on the Summer Reading
Program. Join us every Wednesday at 10am
with library staff member Edith. Edith 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 at
the library. For more information on this
program, please call Edith at 505-869-9808
or email Edith.Perez.Bonilla@isletapueblo.
com.
Upcoming
If you would like extra help on the computers
or would like help in a specific area such as
making a flyer, card or working on a project,
the library staff is here to help! Book a
Librarian is a FREE service offered to all
our patrons. We will do our best to help
you understand and learn something new.
Phone help, tablets, smart watches, email,
Microsoft office and so much more those are
just some examples of what the library staff
can help you with. Give the library a call to
set up a date and time which will work best
for you also giving us time to prepare for
your visit.
Looking to learn how to play a new
instrument? Library staff is in the process
of putting together a Musical Instrument
Lending service here at the library where
patrons can check-out musical instruments.
Our current selection includes bass and
acoustic guitars. All levels are welcome to
try this service from beginners to advanced,
Tnd can also pair it with our wide selection
of guitar tabs available at the library.
We are still in the early stages of getting
everything together but keep a look out for
more information to come soon!
September 2023
Isleta Pueblo News
Page 19
Once again, we will be starting our tutoring
services in collaboration with Tutor Doctor.
The Tutor Doctor will be offering one-onone tutoring services in-person here at
the library. Registration starts on Monday
September 11th, and tutoring sessions
will start on October 2nd. Space is limited
to 7 students ranging from 1st grade to
12th grade. Students will be required to
complete three assessments that will be
used to develop a customized approach to
their tutoring. A meeting will be scheduled
for all that are interested, times and dates
to be announced.
Recap
Library staff were busy for the month
of August attending back to school open
houses. That included Bosque Farms
Elementary, Valencia Middle School, Los
Lunas and Valencia High School, Isleta
Elementary and Isleta Head Start. This
was a good opportunity for staff to promote
library programs, services and resources as
well as meet the community and encourage
students and parents to come and visit the
library. During our time there we handed
out backpacks, water bottles, battery packs
and other promotional items. We would like
to thank everyone who visited our booth,
gave suggestions, or stopped by to see what
we have to offer. We would also like to thank
the schools for allowing us to promote our
services to everyone.
During the month of August library staff
member Kimberly hosted a Blue Beetle
program where participants read three
hand-picked comic books/graphic novels
and participated in group book reviews to
win their ticket to watch Blue Beetle on
Friday, September 1st. This program was
open to 10 patrons 12 years old and up.
Stay for more youth programs coming soon!
After School Program students gathering around to make an
Origami Fortune Teller!
After School Program students mixing together some Puffy Paint for a
sensory twist on painting.
We will continue to have incentive field
trips throughout the school year. At this
time our After School Program is currently
full, however we are continuously accepting
students to add to our waiting list. If you
have any questions or concerns regarding
our After School Program, please give us a
call and speak with a staff member at 505869-9808.
We’re off to a great start with our After
School Program with students from Isleta,
Sundance and Bosque Farms Elementary.
We currently have 20 students enrolled
in our program, with transportation to
the library after school for Bosque Farms
students that are enrolled in our After School
Program. Library staff members Kyle, Kim
and Elena help students with homework,
reading, reading based programs, crafts
and activities to encourage students to
read. Students from Isleta Elementary
went swimming at the rec for one of their
half days. Library staff is currently in the
process of planning an incentive field trip
for all students for the month of September
On Saturday July 22nd library staff
participated in the Back to School & Child
Find Community Event which was held at
Isleta Elementary and Isleta Head Start.
Which was a collaboration and community
event with other POI departments. The
library was there to promote our services
and resources to parents and students.
Department of Education was their doing
the school supply distribution as well as
representatives for Los Lunas Schools to
help with student registration and so much
more.
After School Program students making a tortilla cinnamon treat after
completing homework and reading!
Library staff members Cheyenne and Diane promoting library
services at Valencia Middle School’s Open House!
Page 20
Isleta Pueblo News
PARKS & RECREATION DEPARTMENT
September 2023 already, the days keep
flying by and winter is right around the
corner.
The department is doing well! The water
in the Aquatic Center is awesome and very
inviting, please come by and enjoy the water.
Parks Maintenance crew keep plugging
away and it shows, just go to one of our
beautiful Parks in the pueblo and you will
see all the blood, sweat and tears my parks
maintenance crew has put into our parks
to make them beautiful for tribal members
to use. The fitness staff is doing a great job
of trying to make all Pueblo of Isleta tribal
members healthy and the are waiting for
the rest of you that have not come by, make
it a point to stop in and workout with our
fitness staff. The recreation section didn’t
even get a break this year, the school year
started up so quickly that they jumped
right into our afterschool program almost
immediately after the summer program
ended. Finally, our Sports Section is doing
their thing; they have many new activities
planned for the remainder of the year, so
keep your eyes open for upcoming activities
and events from this section.
AQUATICS CENTER SECTION
Isleta Aquatics hopes all students and staff
have had a safe fun start to the school year!
We have lap swim available from 5:30am8:30am as well as family and group swim
from 4:30pm-7:30pm Monday through
Thursday, and 4:30pm-5:30pm Fridays.
We will close mid-day to accommodate
FITNESS SECTION
Isleta Recreation Center has begun a new
challenge. The Blender Challenge! This is
for everyone who are not part of the Silver
Eagles Challenge. Two lucky winners will
be picked weekly, for the next 12 weeks,
one Male winner and one Female winner.
You could be the next winner, but you have
to join the challenge!!!
How it works, you must come into the Main
Recreation Center, exercise for at least 30
minutes, and complete a 10-day punch card
and you will be entered into the drawing.
The more punch cards completed the more
chances you have to win. Remember you
can only win once. Yes, it is that simple.
You may be wondering, what is considered
exercise? Well any physical activity that
gets you moving, such as Basket Ball,
swim time for youth programs as well
as daily pool maintenance. We are still
offering our adults only lap swim on
Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays from
12pm-1:00pm. All three types of swim
sessions can be reserved in one and/or 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 Jayna at 505-8699783 for more details on availability and
registration. Isleta Aquatics is still looking
for lifeguards, 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, and other aquatic programming
please call Josh or Jayna at 505-869-9783.
SPORTS SECTION
The men’s basketball league double
elimination tournament went over very
well and it ended up being very exciting.
In the winners bracket the Mudd Dogz
knocked off the #1 Timberwolves to send
them to the loser’s bracket. The Ball Hogz
then faced off with the Timberwolves in the
semifinals. The Timberwolves won to get
to Championship game to play the Mudd
Dogz. In the first game the Timberwolves
came out on top to beat the Mudd Dogz by
a score of 62 - 57. The Timberwolves had to
beat them one more time to take the crown,
but they just couldn’t do it. The Mudd Dogz
would fight till the final seconds of game
September 2023
to get the Championship Crown in a very
exciting game. The final score for that
game was 68 - 70. In August, we held a
Co-Ed softball tournament with 7 teams.
It was a double elimination tournament
and it was a whole lot of fun. All the teams
were from Isleta except for one team that
came all the way from Acoma Pueblo. The
first game started at 7am at the Chical
baseball fields and the weather was perfect
all day long for this fun filled event. The
championship game started at 7:30 pm till
sundown. It was Kumandra and The Mix
from Acoma with Kumandra winning the
championship. Once again, this was a fun
event and everyone participating enjoyed
the day.
Youth Cross Country has also started, the
practices have been really good, so far and
we are looking forward to the up-coming
season. We will be hosting a meet here
at Isleta Pueblo this month and the meet
date will be announced as soon as it has
been secured. This year’s Cross Country
Coaches are George Waquie, Phil Abeita,
Kyle Wade, and Alicia Smith and as of
right now we have a total of 33 kids signedup. If you would like your son or daughter
to join, please call the Rec center for more
information at (505) 869-9777. Our Co-Ed
Volleyball Season will also be starting up
very soon and sign-ups for the up-coming
season will begin on September 1, the signup deadline for Co-Ed Volleyball will be
September 22 so if you plan on joining you
had better do it soon.
Swimming, Volley Ball, Weight Training,
Yoga or just walking the outdoor track or
the treadmill, and yes it is that simple,
so get off your couches and come join this
challenge and possibly win a blender! Once
again, it is that simple.
Call your Isleta Recreation Center (Main)
for more information at (505) 869-9777 and
ask for the fitness staff to answer any of
your questions. The Fitness Staff that will
be available to help are Anne, Elizabeth,
Marcus or Thomas.
To the Silver Eagles Club participants,
we are proud of you. We are 8 months
into this program and you all have been
so impressive and extremely active, great
job! Your progress shows in your attitude,
strength and youthfulness. Silver Eagles,
you have 3 months to go and complete any
September 2023
attendance cards before the Big Drawing.
This means you have until the end of
November. Keep up the great work and
good luck to all of you. Again, if you have
any questions call the Isleta Recreation
Center and speak with the fitness staff. 505869-9777 x 9012
RECREATION SECTION
The afterschool program is going strong and
as I mentioned earlier there was almost
no time to catch our breath because school
started immediately after the summer
program ended. Kids seem to be having fun
this year. We will have many fun activities
planned for them again this school year and
we are hoping to have more staff on board
in the program so that we can accept more
participants into the program.
NM Poison Control
We should be cleaning and
disinfecting more often. It is important
that you do not inject or ingest these
chemicals into your body. Please
remember to keep ALL chemicals out
of children’s reach. If any cleaning
or disinfectant solution is swallowed
or injected, please contact the NM
Poison Control immediately.
1-800-222-1222
Isleta Pueblo News
Here are some summer memories from this past summer.
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Isleta Pueblo News
September 2023
September 2023
Isleta Pueblo News
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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.
quality lighting will improve your ability
to read and do other near tasks.
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
*If you would like to schedule your
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.
routine eye exam appointment
please give us a call at
(505) 869-4080*
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Healthy Foods Express—2nd event
Stephanie Barela, Health Educator
Stephanie.Barela@islclinic.net
Phone: 505-869-4479
The Isleta Health Center’s 2nd Roadrunner Food Bank
Healthy Foods Express food distribution was at the Chical
Reception Hall on August 3, 2023 from 9-11am and was
a great success! The distribution provided food to at least
88 families with more than 226 people affected by the
distribution. This was an increase of 30 families and 85
more people than the last food distribution event. This
Healthy Foods Express Event provides free, fresh food to
families every first Friday of the month from 9:00am until
11:00am. Our first distribution was at the Isleta Health
Center B’eeh-K’ooh-ee Activities Center, but with such a
great turn out, we moved the event to the Chical Reception
hall for our 2nd event and it turned out great, so we plan to
keep it there in the future!
The Healthy Foods Express is set up like a farmer’s
market, with fresh produce and other food items available
for individuals to select. Staff and volunteers handed out
numbers to those who attended, in order to organize the
order in which food was distributed and as a way for us
to evaluate and keep track of the amount and ages of
people we are serving. The Isleta Health Center asked
each household to answer the questions on the back of
their # slip. During each event, we plan to have questions
for participants to answer in order to help us improve the
program, as well as, help us document the number of
people we are serving. At each event, any new participant
will filled out a Client Intake Form for their first attendance
and then in the future after the participant registers 1 time,
they will no longer have to register again. Road Runner
Food Bank needs participants to register in order to show
the need for the program and to maintain state funding.
If you have completed this form before, then you are not
required to complete this again, unless the information
was incorrectly input into the computer or your information
has changed. There is also a Pick-Up Authorization form
that is needed if we are distributing food from TEFAP (The
Emergency Food Assistance Program), in order for you
to pick up food for other households. Food from TEFAP
is not always distributed, but it would be good if you are
planning to pick up food for others, to have this form
completed in case we are distributing TEFAP food that
day. The pick-up authorization form will be provided at
each event, or you can access the form in order to fill it out
before the distribution either on our website, www.islclinic.
com or from the Isleta Health Center.
We hope to see you at the next Isleta Health Foods Express
Distribution at the Chical Reception Hall on September 1,
2023 from 9-11am, or until food runs out.
SUBMITTED POEM FROM
ANONYMOUS TRIBAL MEMBER
It’s hard to put pen to paper.
Write down a mood or a thought
Wake up happy or sad.
Change my clothes or brush my hair.
Eat a good lunch or feed my cat
Look out the window or stare at the wall.
Sometimes, I feel I am never enough at all.
-Anonymous
Isleta Pueblo News
September 2023
September 2023
Isleta Pueblo News
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September is National
Recovery Month
Don’t miss out
on attending this
month’s upcoming
c o m m u n i t y
awareness event
at the B’eeh K’ooee Activity Building
on September 14,
2023. Would like
to invite the Isleta
community and families for an evening together to
support “National Recovery Month”.
If you have any questions, please call B’eeh K’ooee Wellness Center at (505) 869-5475. Doors open
at 4:30pm and starts at 5:00pm at B’eeh K’oo-ee
Activity Center. The purpose of the event is to create
an awareness about the “Natural Consequences
in Addiction”. This is about recovery to support
sobriety and raise awareness of addiction
recovery resources.
For many in recovery from addiction may report
having ongoing challenges to their sobriety. A
person’s recovery journey can start in scary,
uncertain waters and change into a new sober
lifestyle.
National Recovery Month, which started in 1989,
is a national observance held every September
to promote and support new evidence-based
treatment and recovery practices, the nation's
strong and proud recovery community, and the
dedication of service providers and communities
who make recovery in all its forms possible.
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Isleta Pueblo News
September 2023
September 2023
Isleta Pueblo News
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Pueblo of Isleta Head Start, Early
Head Start, and Child Care
We are still accepting applications for the 2023-2024 school year. We strongly encourage pregnant
women and infants & toddlers ages 0-5 years old, to apply!! Listed below are our service hours for
each of the programs we offer to families. If you are interested in applying and enrolling, or would
like additional information, please call us at our Center at 505-869-9796.
Ages:
Prenatal to 3 years old
Ages:
3 years old to 5 years old
Ages:
16 months to 3 years old
Early Head Start Center Based Program
Head Start Program
Child Care Program
3 Classrooms M-F from 8:00am-3:00pm
Classrooms M-F from 8:15am-2:45pm
Child Care Program
2 Classrooms M-F from 8:00am-3:00pm
Early Head Start Home Based Program
An assigned teacher providing weekly
services, once a week for 90– minutes.
Child Care Wrap Around Program
2 Classrooms for before and afterschool
services begin at 7:30am and ending at
5:00pm
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Isleta Pueblo News
September 2023
WIC World Breastfeeding Week 2023
THANK YOU TO EVERYONE WHO HELPED
MAKE THIS A SUCCESSFUL WIC EVENT!
VOLUNTEERS
NAAPR
ISLETA HEADSTART
CONTRIBUTIONS
ALBERTSONS- FOOD
DION’S- GIFT CARDS
JERRY’S MARKET- WATER
ZUNI SMOKE SHOP- JEWELRY
MOM TO BE 3D4D- ULTRASOUND
ISLETA ONE STOP- ICE
SEPTEMBER is Self-care Awareness Month
Take time to manage your mental, emotional,
physical and spiritual wellbeing, Relax, Eat Well,
Be optimistic AND…Ask for help if needed!
PUEBLO OF ISLETA WIC Office 505-869-2662
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.
September 2023
ALBERTA “GHAWI” LUCERO
On August 17, 2023, Alberta left
to be with her parents Edward
and Janet Lucero; sister Marcia
Sosa and brother Eugene.
She is survived by her brother
& sister in-law, Michael B. and
Miriam Lucero; nieces and
nephew Susanna Sosa, Sharon
English, Michael Alan, Julie
Lucero and many relatives and
friends.
Alberta lived away from Isleta
for several years, residing in
San Francisco, CA and Portland, Oregon. She returned to
Isleta and resided in the family home.
Alberta was a fun-loving, happy, friendly, and loving person
with a contagious laugh who enjoyed board games,
crossword puzzles, music and movies; had a love for animals
especially her pet “Junior” who she left behind. We’ll miss
her smile, happy energy and spontaneous expressions “I
love you,” “Not yet” and “Have fun.”
Her family thanks all who visited Alberta while in hospital
and helped to honor her last day with us. Camel Lucero
for reciting the Rosary followed with songs by Yvonne
Acoya. For the beautiful mass at St. Augustine church, our
appreciation to Father Milton, Tony Jaramillo Choir, Stacy
Norvell and Brandi Lucero, Jonathon Garcia, Alan Cherino
and Denise.
Thank you to Governor Zuni and tribal staff for gravesite and
EMS transportation.
Last but not least, to ALL who helped make the reception a
joyful reunion among relatives and friends.
May God send special blessing to all for your support and
condolences.
The Lucero Family
We extend our deepest thanks to everyone in the
community during this time of loss.
Our greatest sadness.
Please know that your love and kindness
conveyed to us in many ways has brought us
great comfort and will always be remembered.
With sincere gratitude,
The family of Lugarda L. Abeita
Remember to
WEAR YOUR SUNGLASSES!
Isleta Pueblo News
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Isleta Pueblo News
September 2023
The Pueblo of Isleta
WIC Program (505) 869-2662
The end of summer is approaching, but it is never too
late to use your WIC benefits to make some summer
time pasta salad! Please see the recipe below for fresh
WIC Summer Pasta Salad. Some of the ingredients can
be purchased with your WIC benefits.
WIC Summer Pasta Salad
Ingredients:
1. 1 bag or box of spinach tomato pasta-bowtie or
spiral looks pretty
2. A small block of cheese- cubed (WIC Food)
3. Ham or turkey cubed- as much as you like
4. 1 carton of cherry or plum tomatoes (WIC Food)
5. 3 carrots-diced (WIC Food)
6. 2 bell peppers- diced (WIC Food)
7. 1 cucumber- thick slices quartered (WIC Food)
8. Broccoli – as much as you like (WIC Food)
9. Italian or Ranch low fat dressing- 2-3 squirts
Preparation:
Cook pasta according to
label. Rinse and cool.
Combine all ingredients
in a bowl and toss.
Serve chilled or at room
temperature.
Please give us a call
to check your eligibility
today
if
you
are
pregnant, breastfeeding,
postpartum, or have an
infant or a child under the
age of 5. (505) 869-2662
St. Augustine Parish
Isleta Pueblo
Ministry of Consolation
MISSION STATEMENT
We are a ministry of consolation at St. Augustine
Parish to offer spiritual comfort and support to
families who have experienced the loss of a loved
one. We will continue to honor and respect our
traditional teachings.
September 2023
Isleta Pueblo News
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Understanding Family Effects of Addiction
The family effects of addiction is a term that is
often referred to as Children of Alcoholics
(COA’s). Research theories has indicated that
children who grow up in a family with addiction
take on inadequate coping roles to survive
that is described as COA’s characteristics.
(Sources from books by Claudia Black and
Sharon Wegscheider-Cruse, 1980’s) This
creates problems in family communication and
conflict affecting all family members. The family maintains the
three dysfunctional family rules of; don’t talk, don’t feel, and
don’t trust that keeps the family from talking about the effects
of substance abuse in the family. Addiction is not your fault. You
can’t cure it, you didn’t cause it, and you can’t stop it.
When a love one begins to use alcohol or other drugs, their
relationship with others begin to change. There is lots of confusion,
misplaced emotions, and chaos that takes the focus away from
the substance user to the focus on the other family members who
are acting out. Each family member develop coping roles that are
inadequate (not helpful to cope with the family substance user).
This will keep each family member in their ineffective family roles.
The best way to improve home life is often for the addict to seek
treatment.
There are support groups in every community. Many family
members have found that joining Al-Anon (A 12-Step Program
for those worried about someone with a drinking problem), NarAnon (A 12-Step Program for Families & Friends of Addicts), or
Alateen (A peer support group for teens who are struggling with
the effects of someone else's problem drinking) call (505) 2622177 for more information about where in your local area for a
community group. Come and join me for the adult Family Group
open to the Isleta community (for anyone to attend) will be
starting September 21, 2023 from 2:00PM to 3:30PM for 6
weeks at Beeh Koo ee Activity Center building. This group
is for you to learn about family recovery and how to support your
love one’s recovery.
The Mascot: This role strategy is to use humor or
jokes about anything to make light of the situation to
cope within the family. They seem immature and might
pretend that things are “ok” while making the illusion
of normalcy to divert attention away from the chaos and
confusion.
Unhealthy Family Coping Roles with
Substance Abuse Problems
Substance abuse problems turn family members against one
another by how they cope with it. The substance abuse is the
primary problem in the family. Family will need to address their
feelings by breaking the family rules to; ok to talk, ok to feel, and
ok to trust by talking helps to practice healthy COA roles to cope
with the addict. Family members often blame the addict as the
cause of family problems while the family members are reacting to
each other’s inadequate unhealthy COA roles. No one chooses their
COA roles or behaviors intentionally. Most families are unaware of
why or what they are doing. These COA’s roles develop into family
problems as a ripple effect from the substance abuser that turn
family members against each one another. To repair relationships
is often for the addict to seek treatment. Having a family talking
circle of a family meeting in the home, and or family counseling
is helpful. This allows to talk, to trust, and to feel to change
themselves to a healthy coping role. Knowing about addiction and
how family becomes consumed in it allows for positive change and
wellness for supporting recovery of your loved one. Don’t miss
reading next article to be submitted on “How to Know When You’re
Enabling Addiction”. Article written by Lisa Kaye Cherino, MHR,
MSW, LCSW, LADAC, Therapist, Beeh Koo-ee Wellness Center
Health Beat:
Fruits & Veggies – More Matters Month
Unhealthy Family Roles
Karen Roop, Dietitian with the Isleta Diabetes Program
Phone: 505-869-3200
Family members often blame the substance
user as the cause of the family problems when
the problems comes from the family members
reacting to the other family roles. Below are the
five family roles;
September is National Fruits & Veggies — More Matters Month!
Fruits and vegetables are very important for a healthy diet. Why
is that?
The Addict: Role causes the four remaining
roles to emerge from other family members. The
addict draws untreated guilt and shame that
leads to blaming others in the family for the
substance abuse.
The Enabler (Caretaker): Who seeks to remain
feeling needed in the relationship will rescue or
cover up the addict from all responsibility.
They provide micronutrients
Micronutrients are compounds, such as vitamins and minerals,
which we need in very small amounts (hence the prefix “micro”).
However, they still play important roles in the body. For example,
some of them act as antioxidants.
When our bodies undergo natural processes, such as metabolizing
food, they produce compounds called “free radicals.” These unstable
molecules can damage the body. Antioxidants are nutrients, such
as vitamin C, that eliminate free radicals. Fruits and vegetables
are full of antioxidants and, therefore, they help prevent free
radicals from damaging the body.
They provide fiber
The Hero: This is the overachiever, a perfectionist,
the shining star of the family who feels pressure to
perform with high expectations. They feel they can fix
the family problem by looking good. They may receive
no recognition for their effort, and if it is received is
short-lived for complements.
Fiber is a type of carbohydrate that is important for digestive
health. It is important for the healthy bacteria in our digestive
systems and for preventing constipation. The recommendations for
daily fiber intake ranges from 21 to 25 grams for adult women and
30 to 38 grams for adult men. Kids need between 19 and 38 grams,
depending on their age (the younger they are, the fewer grams
they need).
Vegetables are low in calories
The Scapegoat (black sheep or trouble maker): Calories are the total energy a food provides for the body.
This role takes the blame for the family problem by
acting. This role sees perfectionism and overachieving
as unsuccessful, so become defiant, rebellious, and
or oppositional. They might find another family that
understands them.
The Lost Child: This role acts invisible being
unnoticed by the rest of the family, usually quiet, and
avoids confrontation. They might be complimented
as the “good child” because they have learned to
stay out of trouble. This role views no use in causing
trouble, talking about it, or getting involved.
Consuming more calories than your body uses may lead to weight
gain. Conversely, consuming fewer calories than your body uses
may lead to weight loss. Vegetables are low in calories and may
help people who want to reduce their overall calorie intake.
The Isleta Health Center is once again offering the “Healthy Foods
Express” Food distribution in collaboration with the Road Runner
Food Bank on the 1st Friday of September, 9/1/23, from 9-11am at
the Isleta Chical Reception Hall. Please come down to get some
fruits and veggies and help increase your intake of these important
foods.
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Isleta Pueblo News
September 2023
This is a copy of a public record, reproduced as it was published. It is not legal advice, and it may not be the version a court would rely on. Check the official source before you cite it.