Message from the Governor (2014)
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Isleta Pueblo News
Volume 9 Issue 9
September 2014
Message from the Governor
I want to take this opportunity to thank
all community members who attended the
community meeting on Saturday, August
16, 2014 at the Isleta Resort and Casino.
Although the entire agenda wasn't covered,
very relevant information on the State/
Tribal Summit; Charter School Initiative;
BIE School Conversion to POI Operated
School; Internship Pilot Program; Assisted
Living Facility and Transportation Projects
were presented and discussed. I am planning
for an end of the year community meeting
at which time I will report on the state of
our tribal affairs. The date and time of the
meeting will be announced in an upcoming
edition of the Isleta newsletter.
I also want to extend my appreciation to
our traditional leaders and community
service workers who participated in the
Community Clean Up on Saturday August
16, 2013, in preparation for the Annual St.
Augustine Feast planned for August 2728th, and September 4, 2014. A very special
"Thank You" to the Mayordomos and their
families for their dedication and hard work
in hosting the St. Augustine Feast days.
Valle de Oro National Wildlife Refuge
ALBUQUERQUE, NM - Secretary of the
Interior Sally Jewell joined local elected
officials and community partners to celebrate
the positive economic impacts and successes
of the Land and Water Conservation Fund
as it approaches its 50th anniversary on
September 3rd. On Friday, August 8th,
as part of the celebration, the Secretary
joined New Mexico Senators Tom Udall and
Martin Heinrich, Representative Michelle
Lujan Grisham, U.S. Fish and Wildlife
Service Regional Director Dr. Benjamin
Tuggle and Governor Eddie P. Torres to
celebrate this important anniversary and
make an announcement regarding Valle de
Oro National Wildlife Refuge. At the site
of the Wildlife Refuge, U.S. Senators Tom
Udall, Martin Heinrich and Representative
Michelle Lujan Grisham stood with Interior
Secretary Sally Jewell to announce that a
diverse group of federal, state, local partners
and conservation groups have acquired
the lands needed to complete the 570-acre
Valle de Oro National Wildlife Refuge, the
Southwest's first urban national wildlife
refuge. Governor Torres announced that
the Pueblo of Isleta stands in support of
the endeavor which will benefit all New
Mexicans and visitors to this first southwest
urban national wildlife refuge.
Secretary of the Interior Sally Jewell, Representative Michelle Lujan Grisham, New
Mexico Senators Tom Udall, Martin Heinrich, U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service Regional
Director Dr. Benjamin Tuggle and Governor Eddie P. Torres
parishioners gathered in Isleta to accept a
sculpture of Sor Maria de Agreda donated
to the St. Augustine Church. The sculpture
of the Sor Maria de Agreda was created by a
world renowned sculpture and artist Sonny
Rivera which will now be on permanent
display in our St. Augustine Church.
The presentation of the sculpture to the
Pueblo of Isleta reinforces the over 400
year old association of the Roman Catholic
Church in America with the Native
Americans of the southwest, in particular
the Jumano Indians and their early 1600
visits to the Pueblo of Isleta where they
sought out the Catholic missionaries.
Legend has it that Sor Maria de Agreda
contributed to the evangelization of the
Jumano Indians in what is today known
as Texas. Between 1620 and 1623, she was
reportedly “transported by the aid of the
angels” to settlements of a people called
Jumanos while she physically remained in
the convent at Agreda, Spain.
continuously occupied Native American
community known as Isleta Pueblo with the
world-wide followers of Sor Maria de Agreda.
With all the recent attention focused on the
canonization of Sor Maria, pilgrims from
Europe and across the world who have heard
her story, continue to travel to southwest
United States and specifically to our Isleta
Pueblo to embrace the magnificent story of
this saint in the making.
Native American Scholarship Program
— July 27, 2013
I am again proud to announce that Miss Lia
Abeita-Sanchez, daughter of Ms. Caroline
Abeita and Blane Sanchez from the Pueblo
of Isleta is a recipient of a New Mexico Gas
The legend of Sor Maria de Agreda has
placed worldwide attention to this small
ISLETA PUEBLO, NM
Through the local efforts of our tribal
leaders, Governor Eddie Paul Torres;
Former Governor Frank Lujan, Father
George; Jerry Lujan (Jumano Apache
Tribe), and the St. Augustine Kateri
Circle members along with a multitude of
Sculpture of Sor Maria de Agreda pictured
with Governor Eddie Paul Torres and
Artist Sonny Rivera
NMGC Scholarship recipient; Miss Lia
Abeita-Sanchez and 2nd Lt. Isador Abeita
Page 2
Company, Inc. (NMGC) Native American
Scholarship. In a NMGC 2014 Awards
Ceremony held on August 9, 2014 at the
Indian Pueblo Culture Center, Albuquerque,
NM, Miss Lia Abeita-Sanchez was awarded
her scholarship. Miss Lia Abeita-Sanchez
is attending the University of New Mexico
and majoring in Political Science.
The New Mexico Gas Company, Inc. (NMGC)
Native American Scholarship Program
(NASP) is a program that is intended to
assist Native American students in pursuit
of a post-secondary education that may
result in an Master, Bachelor, or Associate’s
Degree; certification from a trade school or
specialized technical training associated
with a license or certificate. Congratulations
to Miss Lia Abeita-Sanchez, we are very
proud of your educational achievements.
2014 POI Summer Intern Program
I am proud to announce the Pueblo of Isleta
2014 Summer Intern Pilot Program was
a huge success this initial year as noted
during a recent report to the Isleta Tribal
Council and the Governor’s Community
Meeting held at the Isleta Resort & Casino
on Saturday, August 16, 2014. The Summer
Intern Program was initiated this year to
allow student recipients of POI scholarships
Isleta Pueblo News
September 2014
to gain valuable documented work
experience here at the Pueblo during their
summer recess within their fields of study.
This work experience will hopefully provide
them with the desire to seek employment
within any of the numerous offices and
businesses now located here on the Pueblo
after graduation. This work experience
is also vital to college graduates who are
seeking employment after graduation but
have little or no actual work experience to
include in their applications and resumes.
This year’s students were placed in positions
at the Isleta Health Center (Diabetes
and Behavioral Health Departments),
the Public Defender’s Office, Office of the
Treasurer, Isleta Recreation Center, Isleta
Business Center, Isleta Resort & Casino,
Isleta Housing Authority, Isleta Police
Department, Department of Education,
Tewa Lending Corporation and our Natural
Resources Office. In all, 18 students
participated this initial year and we plan
on doubling, if not tripling that amount
next year. Based on the favorable comments
received from this year’s participants, as
well as their mentors and parents, the
Program plans on being very popular with
scholarship recipients again next year.
The Isleta Human Resources Office will be
notifying all POI Scholarship recipients of
next year’s Summer Intern Program which
will be expanded to hopefully include intern
position with the City of Albuquerque, State
of New Mexico, Sandia National Labs, and
private companies such as Merrill Lynch.
Notification letters will be sent out this
November to allow students to work on their
resumes and to fill out all necessary preemployment and background applications.
This program is also open to Descendants
as well.
A Petition to Probate, with Lucy A. Zuni
being appointed as administrator, the
Estate of Jose Marcelino Zuni, deceased
November 21, 2011, Case No. CV —
PR - 0074 — 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 Clerk within thirty (30) days of
this notice being posted. A court hearing for
this matter has been has been scheduled
for
___________________________
Claims must be filed in writing with the
Isleta Tribal Court Clerk. If you have any
questions, please contact the Tribal Court
Clerk at (505) 869 — 9699.
A Petition to Probate the Estate of Joe
A. Waseta, deceased May 31, 2014,
Case No. CV — PR — 0094 -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 clerk within
thirty (30) days of this notice being posted.
A court hearing for this probate has been
scheduled for Tuesday, September 23,
2014 at 2:00 PM.
Information on the 2015 Summer Intern
Program may be directed to Mr. Richard
Garcia or Myra Garro, Human Resources
Representatives, in the POI Human
Resources Office at (505) 869-7585.
Message from Governor
Eddie Paul Torres
First and foremost, let us give Thanks to our
Creator, Mother Earth for guiding our daily
lifes to live in peace and harmony with one
another and be thankful for blessing us with
rain to help all living things flourish. Let us
remember our dearly departed brothers and
sisters in our prayers and hold in our hearts
their fond memories. May the Great Spirit
always guide you and look over each one of
you.
PUBLIC NOTICE
SECOND NOTICE — A Petition to
Probate the Estate of Jose Edward
Jojola, deceased March 30, 2010,
Case No. CV — PR — 0925 -2013, has
been filed in the Pueblo of Isleta Tribal
Courts. Any person claiming an interest in
the Estate is hereby requested to notify
the Pueblo of Isleta Tribal Court Clerk
within thirty (30) days of this notice being
posted. A court hearing for this probate is
pending.
Claims must be filed in writing with the
Isleta Tribal Court Clerk. If you have any
questions, please contact the Tribal Court
Clerk at (505) 869 — 9699.
SECOND NOTICE — A Petition to
Probate the Estate of Rey Louis R.
Chiwewe, deceased Case No. CV —
PR — 0918 -2013, has been filed in the
Pueblo of Isleta Tribal Courts. Any person
claiming an interest in the Estate is hereby
requested to notify the Pueblo of Isleta
Tribal Court Clerk within thirty (30) days of
this notice being posted. A court hearing
for this probate has been scheduled for
Wednesday, October 22, 2014.
Claims must be filed in writing with the
Pueblo of Isleta Tribal Court Clerk. If you
have any questions, please contact the
Tribal Court Clerk at (505) 869 — 9699.
A Petition to Probate the Estate of Juan
Phillip Chewiwi, deceased November
13, 2008, Case No. PR — CV — 0072
— 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 Clerk within thirty (30) days of
this notice being posted. A court hearing
for this matter has been scheduled for
Wednesday, October 29, 2014.
Claims must be filed in writing with the
Isleta Tribal Court Clerk. If you have any
questions, please contact the Isleta Tribal
Court Clerk at (505) 869 — 9699.
Claims must be filed in writing with the
Isleta Tribal Court Clerk. If you have any
questions, please contact the Tribal Court
Clerk at (505) 869 — 9699.
Take Notice that in accordance with
Pueblo of Isleta Tribal Court requirements,
the Petitioner, Brittanie Lucero, has
applied to the Isleta Tribal Courts for an
Order for Change of Name, for minor
child, from Elfonzo Fermin Chavez
to Elfonzo Fermin Perea. Any person
claiming an interest in this matter may
notify the Pueblo of Isleta Tribal Court
Clerk in writing and/or attend a hearing
which has been scheduled for August 28,
2014 at 1:30 PM.
If you have any questions, please contact
the Pueblo of Isleta Tribal Court Clerk at
(505) 869-9699.
Isleta Pueblo News
September 2014
Page 3
Tribal Court Taking
Requests for Per
Capita Withholdings
The Isleta Tribal Court is taking requests for per
capita withholdings for the December 9, 2014
distribution. In July 2014, the Tribal Council
issued a resolution allowing withholdings of up
to 75% of the second per capita distribution in
December. The Resolution allows withholdings
for outstanding Tribal Court judgments for
unpaid housing payments, court fines, child
support, civil restitutions, ditch dues, or
incarceration bills, as of October 31, 2014.
Deadline and Procedure
Individuals who have a court judgment for
child support or civil restitution must submit
their request to the Court by the deadline of
Friday, October 3, 2014 at 4:30 p.m. with
no exceptions. You can pick up the form at
the Court or the Court can send it by e-mail
upon request. A request will not result in
an automatic withholding. The Court will
schedule hearings to address the requests and
to hear from both parties.
The Court will uphold notice requirements,
which means that the Petitioner must
personally-serve the Respondent with the
Notice of Hearing, copy of the Request and
any other documentation. Personal service
is required because it ensures that the
Respondent gets notice of the hearing. With
proof of personal service, the Court could enter
a default judgment against the Respondent
if he/she fails to appear for the hearing. A
"default judgment" is a judgment entered
against a defendant (respondent) who fails to
answer a complaint or fails to appear at the
trial (hearing). Without proof of proper service
the Court cannot enter a default judgment.
Orders to Withhold Future Per Capita
If you were involved in a case and the Court
issued an order stating that future per capita
payments would be withheld, you must contact
the Court to ensure that the withholding takes
place. You must file a Withholding Request to
ensure that your case is not overlooked.
Fines and Costs Owed to the Court
The Court will send letters to individuals
who owe money to the Court for SCRAM,
GPS and Soberlink costs and other fines and
fees. This letter will inform defendants about
the current balance reflected in the Court's
records. Defendants must contact the Court if
they disagree with the amount. If a defendant
does not contact the Court the amount in the
Court's records will be deducted from per
capita.
If you have any questions please contact
Isleta Tribal Court at (505) 869-9699.
Isleta Pueblo News
Editor:
Ulysses Abeita
Asst. Editor:
Beverly Piro
Published By:
Valencia Express
PUBLIC RELEASE
The Isleta Elementary School
( NAME OF INSTITUTION)
today announced its sponsorship of the USDA Food Program. Meals will be available
at no separate charge or at a reduced charge to enrolled persons at the participating
institution(s) listed below. In accordance with Federal law and the United States Department
of Agriculture policy, this institution is prohibited from discriminating on the basis of race,
color, national origin, sex, age, or disability. To file a complaint of discrimination write
USDA, Director, Office of Civil Rights, Room 326-W, Whitten Building, 1400 Independence
Avenue SW, Washington DC 20250-9410 or call (202) 720-5964 (Voice and TDD). USDA
is an equal opportunity provider and employer.
(INSERT LIST OF CENTERS HERE)
Center(s):
Address:
Isleta Elementary School
1000 Moonlight Drive
Albuquerque, NM 87105
GUIDELINES FOR FREE AND REDUCED MEALS
EFFECTIVE FROM JULY 1, 2014 TO JUNE 30, 2015
Free Meals
Reduced Priced Meals
Household
Size
Annual
Month
Week
Annual
Month
Week
1
12,7
1,062
245
18,130
1,511
349
2
17,1
1,430
330
24,420
2,035
470
3
21,5
1,799
415
30,710
2,560
591
4
26,0
2,167
500
37,000
3,084
712
5
30,4
2,535
585
43,290
3,608
833
6
34,8
2,904
670
49,580
4,132
954
7
39,2
3,272
755
55,870
4,656
1,075
8
43,6
3,640
840
62,160
5,180
1,196
For each additional
Family member add
+ 4,420
+ 369
+ 85
+ 6,290
+ 525
+121
Page 4
Isleta Pueblo News
September 2014
CONSTITUTION
FOR
THE PUEBLO OF ISLETA, NEW MEXICO
PREAMBLE
We, the Indian people of the Pueblo of Isleta, in order to preserve
our customs and traditions, to make the government established by
the original constitution approved March 27, 1947, more responsive
to our needs and the general welfare, to secure the blessings of
liberty to ourselves and our posterity, to provide for our economic
and social betterment through cooperative effort, industry, and
enterprise, to promote security and provide for law and order, do
establish this constitution for the Pueblo of Isleta.
ARTICLE I - JURISDICTION
This constitution shall apply within the exterior boundaries of the
Isleta Pueblo Grant and within the exterior boundaries of such
other lands as are now or may in the future be added by purchase,
grant, lease, or otherwise acquired for use by the Pueblo of Isleta.
No such lands shall ever be alienated from the pueblo by action of
any member of the pueblo.
ARTICLE II - MEMBERSHIP
supported by oath or affirmation, particularly describing the
place to be searched and the persons or things to be seized.
c) Subject any person in any criminal case to be twice put in
jeopardy.
d) Compel any person in any criminal case to be a witness
against himself.
e) Take any private property for public use without just
compensation.
f) Deny to any person in a criminal proceeding the right to a
speedy and public trial, to be informed of the nature and cause
of the accusation, to be confronted with the witness against
him, to have compulsory process for obtaining witness to his
favor, and at his own expense to have the assistance of counsel
for his defense.
The following persons shall be members of the Pueblo of lsleta,
provided such persons shall not have renounced, or do not hereafter
renounce their membership by joining another tribe or pueblo, or
otherwise.
g) Require excessive bail, impose excessive fines, inflict cruel
and unusual punishment and in no event impose for conviction
of any one offense any penalty or punishment greater than
imprisonment for a term of six months or a fine of $500.00 or
both.
Section 1. Persons of one-half (1/2) or more degree of Isleta Indian
blood and Isleta parentage shall be members of the Pueblo of Isleta,
provided they have not renounced their right to membership.
h) Deny to any person within its jurisdiction the equal
protection of its laws or deprive any person of liberty or property
without due process of law.
Section 2. All persons of one-half (1/2) or more degree of Isleta
Indian blood whose names appear on the official census roll
maintained by Southern Pueblos Agency, as of January 1, 1970.
i) Pass any bill of attainder or ex post facto law.
Section 3. Any person of one-half (1/2) or more degree of Isleta
Indian blood born after January 1, 1970.
Section 4. Any person of one-half (1/2) or more degree of Indian
blood who is hereafter naturalized or adopted in conformity with
an appropriate ordinance of the council or according to the laws
and traditions of the Pueblo of Isleta.
Section 5. No person shall be or become a member of the Pueblo
of Isleta who is an enrolled member of any other Indian tribe or
pueblo.
Section 6. Non-Indians shall never become members of the Pueblo
of Isleta.
Section 7. The council shall have the power to adopt ordinances
consistent with this constitution, to govern future membership,
loss of membership and the adoption or naturalization of members
into the Pueblo of Isleta, and to govern the compilation and
maintenance of a tribal roll.
Section 8. No decree of any non-tribal court purporting to determine
membership in the pueblo, paternity or degree of Isleta Indian blood
shall be recognized for membership purposes. The council shall
have original jurisdiction and sole authority to determine eligibility
for enrollment for all tribal purposes except where the membership
of the individual is dependent upon an issue of paternity, in which
case the courts of the pueblo shall have authority and exclusive
jurisdiction.
ARTICLE III - RIGHTS OF MEMBERS
Section 1. The Pueblo of Isleta, in exercising its power of selfgovernment, shall not:
a) Make or enforce any law prohibiting the free exercise of
religion; or abridging the freedom of speech, or of the press, or
denying the rights of members peaceably to assemble and to
petition the council of the pueblo for a redress of grievances.
b) Violate the right of all members to be secure in their persons,
homes, papers, and effects against unreasonable search
and seizures, nor issue warrants, but upon probable cause,
j) Enact any ordinances discriminating against individuals
specifically named.
Section 2. The enumeration in this constitution of certain rights
shall not be construed to deny or limit other rights possessed by
the people.
ARTICLE IV - EXECUTIVE BRANCH
Section 1. The Executive Branch of the Pueblo of lsleta shall consist
of the following named executive officers.
a) Governor
b) First Lieutenant Governor
c) Second Lieutenant Governor
d) Sheriff
e) Undersheriff
Section 2. The council may establish such other appointive offices
and positions as it deems in the best interest of the Pueblo of
Isleta.
Section 3. No persons shall be eligible for election or appointment
to any executive office of the pueblo unless:
a) He shall be an enrolled member of the Pueblo of Isleta.
b) He shall have lived on the lands of the pueblo continuously
for not less than five (5) years immediately preceding his
candidacy or selection for office.
c) He shall never have been convicted of a felony.
d) He shall be at least thirty-five (35) years of age at the time
of his election or appointment to the offices of governor and first
and second lieutenant governor; and he shall be at least twentyfive (25) years of age at the time of his selection or appointment
to the offices of treasurer, sheriff, or undersheriff.
Section 4. The executive officers shall be paid such compensation
as the pueblo council may from time to time establish; provided,
however, that the compensation for any executive officer shall not
be increased or diminished during his term of office.
September 2014
Isleta Pueblo News
Section 5. Duties of the Governor: The duties of the governor shall
include the following:
a) To direct and administer the civil affairs of the pueblo in
conformity with applicable ordinances, procedures, and policies
enacted by the council.
b) To represent the pueblo in negotiations and relationships
with other governmental agencies, individuals, and entities.
c) To co-sign with the treasurer all checks authorized
by the council to be drawn against the accounts of the pueblo.
d) To attend all meetings of the council.
e) To supervise and direct all employees of the pueblo
government.
f) To act as contracting and certifying officer with reference to
all contracts, agreements, and payment vouchers approved by
the council.
Section 6. The first and second lieutenant governors shall function
under the direction of the governor and shall assist him in the
performance of his duties. They shall attend all meetings of the
council.
Section 7. Succession. The first lieutenant governor shall assume
the governorship in the event of the absence, incapacity, death,
resignation or removal of the governor, and the second lieutenant
governor shall succeed to the governorship in the event of the
absence, incapacity, death, resignation or removal of the governor
and the first lieutenant governor. In event of the absence,
incapacity, death, resignation or removal of the governor and the
first and second lieutenant governors, the president of the council
shall assume the governorship.
Section 8. Sheriff and Undersheriff. The sheriff and under-sheriff
shall enforce the laws of the pueblo and perform other duties
traditionally associated with their offices. They shall be subject to
direction by the governor.
ARTICLE V - LEGISLATIVE BRANCH
Section 1. The Legislative Branch of the Pueblo of Isleta shall
consist of a council of twelve (12) members, selected as hereinafter
provided.
Section 2. Subject only to limitations imposed by the laws of the
United States and the restrictions established by this constitution;
the powers of the council shall include the following:
a) To employ legal counsel, the choice of counsel and fixing of
fees to be subject to the approval of the Secretary of the Interior,
so long as said approval is required by Federal law.
b) To prevent the sale, disposition, lease or encumbrance of
the Pueblo of Isleta lands or interests in lands or other pueblo
assets; to execute leases, contracts, and permits, provided that
where the leasing, contracts, and permits or encumbering of
pueblo land is involved, the approval of the Secretary of the
Interior shall be required so long as such approval is required
by Federal law.
c) To negotiate and enter into agreements with the Federal
Government, State and local governments and with the
duly recognized governing bodies of such other Indian tribes
or pueblos, private persons, partnerships, corporations,
associations or other private non-profit or profit entities.
d) To advise the Secretary of the Interior with regard to all
appropriation estimates, or Federal projects of interest to or
for the benefit of the pueblo prior to the submission of such
estimates or projects to the Bureau of the Budget and the
Congress.
e) To enact ordinances, subject to approval by the Secretary
of the Interior, to protect the peace, safety, property, health,
Page 5
and general welfare of the members of the Pueblo of Isleta; to
provide for the appointment of guardians for minors and mental
incompetents; and to provide for the removal or exclusion from
the lands of the pueblo of any nonmember whose presence may
be found by the council to be injurious to the peace, safety or
welfare of the members of the pueblo.
f) To levy and collect taxes, fees, and assessments on the
members of the pueblo and, subject, to approval by the Secretary
of the Interior, upon nonmembers of the pueblo living or doing
business on the lands of the pueblo.
g) To prescribe and establish necessary rules and regulations
for the conduct of pueblo elections in accordance with this
constitution.
h) To prescribe compensation for the executive officer, employees,
and members of the council.
i) To appropriate such funds as are necessary for the health,
safety, and general welfare of the pueblo, for other public
purposes and per capita payments to members of the pueblo;
provided the amount distributed per capita in any one year
shall not exceed one-half of the net income received during the
preceding pueblo fiscal year.
j) To appoint or authorize such committees, commissions,
boards, pueblo chartered organizations or corporations, officials
and employees not otherwise provided for in this constitution.
k) To regulate trade, inheritance of personal property, land
assignments, and private dealings in pueblo land among
members within the pueblo.
l) To otherwise manage and control the lands and resources of
the pueblo for the best interest of the pueblo.
Section 3. The term of office of all members of the council shall
be two (2) years, coinciding with the term of governor and other
elected officers of the pueblo.
Section 4. Any enrolled member of the pueblo aged twenty-five
(25) years or over at the time of this election, and who has lived
continuously on the lands of the pueblo for at least five (5) years
immediately preceding his election, shall be eligible for membership
on the council; provided that residence requirements shall not
apply to persons otherwise eligible whose absence resulted from
military service or attendance at an institution of learning.
Section 5. The council shall at the first meeting of the council
elect amongst themselves a president and vice-president of the
council and designate one of its members as council secretary as
hereinafter provided, whose duty it shall be to keep the minutes of
council meetings, maintain the records, files, and membership roll
of the pueblo, and supervise the conduct of all general and special
elections of the pueblo.
Section 6. The president of the council, or in his absence or
incapacity, the vice-president, shall preside over meetings of the
council
Section 7. The president of the council, or in his absence or
incapacity, the vice-president, shall call meetings of the council
at the request of the governor or at the request of any three (3)
members of the council.
Section 8. Eight (8) members of the council shall constitute quorum
for the transaction of official business. and all issues shall be
decided by majority vote of those members present and voting,
except as otherwise provided in this constitution.
ARTICLE VI - NOMINATIONS, ELECTIONS
AND APPOINTMENTS
Section 1. A general election shall be held on the Saturday
following Thanksgiving of each even numbered year for the purpose
of electing a governor and council members.
Page 6
Isleta Pueblo News
Section 2. Any enrolled member of the Pueblo of Isleta aged twentyone (21) years or more on the date of election shall be eligible to
vote in any general election of the pueblo, provided that he or she
has registered to vote in accordance with Article V, Section 2.,
paragraph g.
Section 3. The council shall designate a polling place at a public
location within the pueblo and, during the hours of 8:00 a.m. to
7:00 p.m. on the last consecutive Saturday and Sunday of October
shall register eligible voters of the pueblo to vote in the general
election. An announcement of the forthcoming dates and place of
registration shall be posted in one or more public places at least
ten (10) days in advance of the registration.
Section 4. Any eligible member shall register their candidacy for
the position of governor or council with the Secretary of the council
ten (10) days prior to registration and nominations. No persons
shall run for both positions during the same election. Any ballot
cast nominating a person who has not declared their candidacy
shall be deemed invalid.
Section 5. At the time he or she registers each eligible voter shall
cast a secret ballot, nominating an eligible enrolled member of the
pueblo as a candidate for governor and one different nomination
for council member. The three (3) eligible persons receiving the
greatest number of votes shall be certified by the council secretary
as the only candidates for the office of governor, and the top twenty
four (24) persons receiving the greatest number of votes shall be
certified by the council secretary as the only candidates for the
twelve (12) positions for council members in the next general
election of the pueblo.
Section 6. Not less than ten (10) days preceding the date of each
general election of the pueblo, the council secretary shall post, in
one or more public places, an announcement of the forthcoming
election, including a list of the candidates whose names will appear
on the ballot and the location of the polling place designated by the
council.
Section 7. Voting shall be by secret ballot, the form of which shall
be established by the council.
Section 8. The polling place shall be open between the hours of
8:00 a.m. and 7:00 p.m. on election day for any general or special
election of the pueblo.
Section 9. All elections of the pueblo shall be conducted under the
supervision of the council secretary with the assistance of such poll
clerks as the secretary may require and the council may provide.
Section 10. Immediately following the closing of the polling place
on any election day the council secretary, together with the poll
clerks, shall open the ballot box and count the ballots. The council
secretary shall thereupon certify the results of the election. At
general elections of the pueblo the candidate receiving the greatest
number of votes for the position of governor shall be certified as the
winning candidate. Of the votes for council members the top twelve
(12) person receiving the greatest number of votes will constitute
the council.
Section 11. On January 1, following any general election of the
pueblo the council at its first meeting shall elect amongst themselves
a president and vice-president of the council.
Section 12. The term of all executive officers and council members
shall be two (2) years beginning on January 6 following each general
election at the pueblo, or immediately upon certification of the
winning candidate in any special election held to fill a vacancy.
Section 13. At the first council meeting following each general
election of the pueblo, the council shall appoint one of its members
as council secretary and shall appoint a qualified member of the
pueblo as treasurer. The treasurer of the pueblo shall serve at
the pleasure of the council and he may be removed from office by
majority vote of the council.
Section 14. Treasurer. The Treasurer shall:
a) Keep the financial records of the pueblo and make
disbursements from pueblo funds in conformity with the annual
budget of the pueblo or at the direction of the council.
September 2014
b) Co-sign with the governor all checks authorized by the council to
be drawn against the accounts of the pueblo.
Section 15. The offices of first lieutenant governor, second lieutenant
governor, sheriff and undersheriff shall be filled by qualified
members of the pueblo appointed by the governor-elect following
his election to office and prior to his inauguration
Section 16. Any elected or appointed official of the pueblo or council
member may resign his office by tendering his written resignation
to the council at any regular or special meeting thereof.
Section 17. Controversies and disputes growing out of any election
of the pueblo shall be decided by the incumbent council of the
pueblo.
ARTICLE VII - REMOVAL AND RECALL
Section 1. Any elected or appointed officer of the pueblo and any
member of the council who, during the term for which he is elected
or appointed, is convicted of a felony, shall thereupon forfeit his
office.
Section 2. Any elected or appointed officer of the pueblo, member
or officer of the council, found guilty in any court of a misdemeanor
involving misconduct reflecting on the dignity and integrity of the
tribal government, or found guilty by the council of malfeasance
in office, or gross neglect of duty, may be removed or recalled from
office in the following manner:
a) The council shall present the accused officer or council
member with a written statement of the charges against him
and, within ten (10) days thereafter, the council shall hold a
hearing at which the accused shall be provided an opportunity
to appear and be heard in his own defense.
b) Any appointed officer of the pueblo or council member may
be removed from office following such hearing by an affirmative
vote of not less than two-thirds (2/3) of the full council.
c) Any elected officer of the pueblo, including the governor,
president, and vice-president of the council shall be removed
from office following such hearing, by an affirmative vote of not
less than two-thirds (2/3) of the full council, the council shall
vote to hold a referendum election on the question of such recall,
and provided that a majority of the registered voters who cast
their ballots in the preceding election vote in favor of recall.
d) The council shall call and hold a special election for the
recalls of any elected officer of the pueblo within twenty-five (25)
days following receipt of a petition for recall signed by at least
twenty-five percent (25%) of the voters registered voting in the
last preceding general election of the pueblo. If the majority of
those voting in such a recall election cast their ballots in favor
of such recall the office shall be declared vacant, provided that
not less than fifty percent (50%) of the registered voters of the
pueblo vote in the recall election.
ARTICLE VIII - FILLING VACANCIES AND
SPECIAL ELECTIONS
Section 1. In the event of the death, resignation, removal or
incapacity of any member of the council, the position may be
declared vacant by the council and filled for the remainder of the
unexpired term by an eligible member of the pueblo by special
election to the position thus vacated.
Section 2. In the event of the death, resignation, removal or
incapacity of the president of the council, the office may be declared
vacant by the council, and the vice-president shall thereupon
assume the presidency. The office of vice-president may be declared
vacant by the council and filled at a special election as hereinafter
provided.
Section 3. In the event of the death, resignation, removal or
incapacity of the vice-president of the council, the office may be
declared vacant by the council and it shall be filled at a special
election to be called by the council and held within thirty (30) days
following the date upon which such vacancy is declared. The person
so elected shall serve for the remainder of the unexpired term.
September 2014
Isleta Pueblo News
Section 4. In the event of death, resignation, removal or incapacity of
both the president and the vice-president of the council, the council
may declare the offices vacant and they shall be filled at a special
election to be called and held by the council within thirty (30) days
following the date upon which such vacancies are declared.
Section 5. In the event of a vacancy for any cause in the offices
of first lieutenant governor, second lieutenant governor, sheriff
or undersheriff, the governor shall select a successor to serve the
unexpired term.
Section 6. Special elections to fill vacancies created by the death,
resignation, removal or incapacity of any elected officer of the pueblo
not filled by succession as herein provided shall be conducted under
the supervision of the council secretary:
a) The eligible voters in such special elections shall be those
members of the pueblo who registered to vote in the last
preceding general election.
b) Each such registered voter shall re-register to vote in the
special election on a date and at a place to be designated by
the council, at least ten (10) days before the special election. At
the time such voter re-registers he or she shall by secret ballot,
nominate an eligible member of the pueblo as a candidate
for the vacant office or offices. Persons receiving the greatest
number of votes will fill these positions vacant at the special
election.
Section 7. In the event of a tie vote in any general or special election
of the pueblo the winner shall be decided by lot before the council.
ARTICLE IX - THE JUDICIAL BRANCH
Section 1. The Judicial Branch of the government of the Pueblo
of Isleta shall consist of the tribal and appellate courts of the
pueblo.
Section 2. The tribal court of the pueblo shall be presided over by
one or more judges appointed by the governor with the concurrence
of a two-thirds (2/3) majority of the council.
Section 3. The number, salary, qualifications, and term of office
of the judge or judges of the tribal court shall be prescribed by
ordinance of the council; provided that the salary of any judge
shall neither be increased or decreased during the term in office;
provided further that no person be a judge who has been convicted
of a felony.
Section 4. Any judge of the tribal court may be removed from office
in the same manner and for the same reasons as set forth in Article
VII, Section 2 (b) with reference to council members and appointed
officers of the pueblo.
Section 5. The tribal court shall have jurisdiction over all criminal
and civil cases included in the approved Code of Laws of the Pueblo
of Isleta, or otherwise lawfully brought before it. In addition, the
tribal court shall determine the constitutionality of enactments of
the council submitted to the court for review.
Section 6. The council of the Pueblo of Isleta shall constitute the
Appellate Court for the Pueblo of Isleta. Appeals shall be granted as
a matter of right. The council may delegate its appellate authority
to such appeal committee, appellate judge or judges or other
appellate body as the council may from time to time establish by
ordinance duly enacted by the council. The decisions of the council
or delegated appellate body shall be final in all appeal cases.
ARTICLE X - APPROVAL OF ORDINANCES
AND RESOLUTIONS
Section 1. Any ordinance, resolution, or other enactment of the
council which, by the terms of this constitution or in conformity with
applicable Federal law, is subject to approval by the Secretary of
the Interior, shall be presented to the Superintendent of Southern
Pueblos Agency within ten (10) days following its enactment. The
Superintendent shall, within ten (10) days following receipt of
such ordinance or resolution, transmit it to the Secretary of the
Interior with his recommendation for or against approval. Such
enactment shall become effective when approved by the Secretary
of the Interior, provided that if the Secretary of the Interior shall
not disapprove an enactment of the council within one hundred
and twenty (120) days following the date of its receipt by the
Page 7
Superintendent, it shall thereupon become effective.
Section 2. All enactments of the council shall show the date of
passage and the number of council members voting for and against
the enactment, and shall bear the certification of the governor or
president of the council and the council secretary. Resolutions and
ordinances shall bear an identifying number and a title.
ARTICLE XI - REPEAL OF PREVIOUS CONSTITUTION
AND SAVINGS CLAUSE
Section 1. The constitution of the Pueblo of Isleta approved March
27, 1947, is hereby repealed and superseded by this constitution.
Section 2. All ordinances and resolutions heretofore enacted by the
Pueblo of Isleta Council shall remain in full force and effect to the
extent that they are not inconsistent with this constitution.
ARTICLE XII - RATIFICATION
This constitution, when adopted by a majority of the voters at a
special election authorized by the Secretary of the Interior in which
at least thirty (30) percent of the pueblo members entitled to vote
cast ballots, shall be submitted to the Secretary of the Interior, or
his authorized representative, for approval and shall be effective
from the date of such approval.
ARTICLE XIII - AMENDMENTS
This constitution may be amended by a majority vote of the
members of the pueblo twenty-one (21) years of age or over, voting
for that purpose in an election authorized by the Secretary of the
Interior or his authorized representative, provided that at least
thirty percent (30%) of those entitled to vote shall vote in such
election; but no amendment shall become effective until it shall have
been approved by the Secretary of the Interior, or his authorized
representative. It shall be the duty of the Secretary of the Interior
or his authorized representative to authorize an election on any
proposed amendment at the request of a majority of the council or
upon receipt of a petition signed by at least one-third (1/3) of the
voters eligible to vote on said amendment.
PUEBLO OF ISLETA, NEW MEXICO
SPECIAL ELECTION
FEBRUARY 23 , 1970
CERTIFICATE OF ADOPTION
Pursuant to an election authorized by the Commissioner of Indian Affairs,
under delegated authority, on December 29, 1969, the attached Constitution
of the Pueblo was submitted for ratification to the qualified voters of the
Pueblo of Isleta of New Mexico, and was on February 23, 1970, duly adopted
by a vote of 347 for and 29 against, in an election which at least thirty percent
(30%) of the 502 members entitled to voted cast their ballots in accordance
Section 16 of the Indian Reorganization Act of June 18, 1934 (48 Stat. 984),
as amended by the Act of June 15, 1935, (49 Stat. 378),
Date: 3-4-70
/s/Kenneth L. Payton
Chairman, Election Board
Pueblo of Isleta, New Mexico
Date: 3-4.70
/s/Bart Montoya
Member, Election Board
Pueblo of Isleta, New Mexico
Date: 34-70
/s/Diego Abeita
Member, Election Board
Pueblo of Isleta, New Mexico
PUEBLO OF ISLETA, NEW MEXICO
SPECIAL ELECTION
AMENDMENT TO CONSTITUTION
ARTICLE VI - NOMINATIONS, ELECTIONS AND
APPOINTMENTS
OCTOBER 20, 1990
CERTIFICATE OF APPROVAL
I, Robert F. Delaware, Deputy to the Assistant Secretary - Indian Affairs (Tribal
Services), by virtue of the authority granted to the Secretary of the Interior by
the Act of June 18, 1934, (48 Stat. 984) as amended, and delegated to me
by 230 D.H. 2.4 do hereby approve Amendment No. 1 to the Constitution of
the Pueblo of Isleta, PROVIDED, that nothing contained in this approval shall
be construed as authorizing any action under the Constitution that would be
contrary to Federal law.
Date: 11/27/90
/s/Robert F. Delaware
Deputy to the Assistant Secretary
Indian Affairs (Tribal Services)
Isleta Pueblo News
September 2014
FOR USE IN THE SECRETARIAL ELECTION TO BE HELD September 20, 2014
PROPOSED AMENDMENTS TO THE CONSTITUTION OF THE PUEBLO OF ISLETA
Page 8
United States Department of the Interior
Bureau of Indian Affairs
Southern Pueblos Agency
1001 Indian School Road, NW Albuquerque, NM 87104-2303
EXHIBIT 1
Article XIII — AMENDMENTS
July 24, 2014 version — Revised BIA Approved
This constitution may be amended by a majority vote of the members
of the pueblo eighteen (18) twenty one (21) years of age or over,
voting for that purpose in an election authorized by the Secretary of
the Interior or his authorized representative.....
ARTICLE III — RIGHTS OF MEMBERS
EXHIBIT 3
The purpose of this amendment is to increase the authority of Pueblo
of Isleta Tribal Court to sentence defendants up to the maximum
allowed by federal law, the Indian Civil Rights Act.
Draft Amendment 3
to Pueblo of Isleta Tribal Constitution
Amendment 1
to Pueblo of Isleta Tribal Constitution
CURRENT LANGUAGE IN CONSTITUTION:
Section 1. The Pueblo of Isleta, in exercising its power of selfgovernment, shall not:
g) Require excessive bail, impose excessive fines, inflict cruel and
unusual punishment and in no event impose for conviction of any
one offense any penalty or punishment greater than imprisonment
for a term of six months or a fine of $500.00 or both.
July 24, 2014 version — Revised BIA Approved
REMOVE SECRETARIAL APPROVAL
The purpose of this amendment is to remove Secretarial (BIA)
approval when Tribal Council hires legal counsel, enacts ordinances,
and assesses taxes on non-Isleta tribal members.
Article V — LEGISLATIVE BRANCH
PROPOSED AMENDMENT LANGUAGE:
CURRENT LANGUAGE IN CONSTITUTION
Section 1. The Pueblo of Isleta, in exercising its power of selfgovernment, shall not:
Section 2. Subject only to the limitations imposed by the laws of the
United States and the restrictions established by this constitution, the
powers of the council shall include the following:
g) Require excessive bail, impose excessive fines, inflict cruel and
unusual punishment and in no event impose for conviction of any
one offense any penalty or punishment greater than imprisonment
for a term of one year six months or a fine of $5,000.00 $500.00
or both or, in the case of a defendant who has been previously
convicted of the same or a comparable offense by any jurisdiction
in the United States or in the case of a defendant being prosecuted
for an offense comparable to an offense that would be punishable
by more than one year if prosecuted by the United States or any of
the States for a term of three years or a fine of $15,000 or both, as
authorized by the Indian Civil Rights Act, 25 U.S.C. & 1301 et seq.,
as may be amended from time to time.
EXHIBIT 2
Draft Amendment 2
to Pueblo of Isleta Tribal Constitution
July 24, 2014 version — Revised BIA Approved
CHANGE VOTING AGE FROM TWENTY ONE (21)
TO EIGHTEEN (18) YEARS OF AGE
The purpose of this amendment is to change the voting age for general
and special elections of the Pueblo from twenty-one (21) to eighteen
(18) years of age and to clarify the voting age of eighteen (18) years
of age for elections to amend the Constitution.
CURRENT LANGUAGE IN CONSTITUTION:
Article VI — NOMINATIONS, ELECTIONS AND APPOINTMENTS
Section 2. Any enrolled member of the Pueblo of Isleta aged twentyone (21) years or more on the date of election shall be eligible to vote
in any general election of the pueblo, provided that he or she has
registered to vote in accordance with Article V, Section 2., paragraph
g.
Article XIII — AMENDMENTS
This constitution may be amended by a majority vote of the members
of the pueblo twenty-one (21) years of age or over, voting for that
purpose in an election authorized by the Secretary of the Interior or his
authorized representative.....
PROPOSED AMENDMENT LANGUAGE:
Article VI — NOMINATIONS, ELECTIONS AND APPOINTMENTS
Section 2. Any enrolled member of the Pueblo of Isleta aged eighteen
(18) twenty one (21) years or more on the date of election shall be
eligible to vote in any general election of the pueblo, provided that he
or she has registered to vote in accordance with Article V, Section 2.,
paragraph g.
a) To employ legal counsel, the choice of counsel and fixing of fees
subject to the approval of the Secretary of the Interior, so long as
said approval is required by Federal law.
e) To enact ordinances, subject to approval by the Secretary of the
Interior, to protect the peace, safety, property, health, and general
welfare of the members of the Pueblo of Isleta;
f) To levy and collect taxes, fees, and assessments on the members
of the pueblo and, subject to approval by the Secretary of the
Interior, upon nonmembers of the pueblo living or doing business
on the lands of the pueblo.
PROPOSED AMENDMENT LANGUAGE:
Section 2. Subject only to the limitations imposed by the laws of the
United States and the restrictions established by this constitution, the
powers of the council shall include the following:
a) To employ legal counsel, the choice of counsel and fixing of fees
subject to the approval of the Secretary of the Interior, as long as
said approval is required by Federal law.
e) To enact ordinances , subject to approval by the Secretary of the
Interior, to protect the peace, safety, property, health, and general
welfare of the members of the Pueblo of Isleta;
f) To levy and collect taxes, fees, and assessments on the members
of the pueblo and subject to approval by the Secretary of the Interior,
upon nonmembers of the pueblo living or doing business on the
lands of the pueblo.
EXHIBIT 4
Draft Amendment 4
to Pueblo of Isleta Tribal Constitution
July 24, 2014 version — Revised BIA Approved
CREATE TERM LIMITS
FOR TRIBAL COUNCIL MEMBERS
The purpose of this amendment is to create limits on the number of
terms that a Tribal Council member can serve on Tribal Council. There
are two options to choose from, or you may choose to keep the current
language which contains no term limits.
Article V — LEGISLATIVE BRANCH
CURRENT LANGUAGE IN CONSTITUTION:
Section 3. The term of office of all members of the council shall be
two (2) years, coinciding with the term of governor and other elected
officers of the pueblo.
September 2014
Isleta Pueblo News
PROPOSED AMENDMENT LANGUAGE:
OPTION 1:
Section 3. The term of office of all members of the council shall be
two (2) years, coinciding with the term of governor and other elected
officers of the pueblo. No member of council shall serve for more than
two (2) consecutive terms as a member of council. After serving two
(2) consecutive terms, such member of council shall be ineligible to
serve as a member of council until the council member has been out
of office at least one full term.
Page 9
Article VI, Section 10. Of the votes for council members the top twelve
(12) persons receiving the greatest number of votes will constitute the
council.
Article VI, Section 5. ..... and the top twenty four (24) persons receiving
the greatest number of votes shall be certified by the council secretary
as the only candidates for the twelve (12) positions for council members
in the next general election of the pueblo.
PROPOSED AMENDMENT LANGUAGE:
OPTION 1: Reduce to Seven (7) Members
OPTION 2:
Section 3. The term of office of all members of the council shall be
two (2) years, coinciding with the term of governor and other elected
officers of the pueblo. No member of council shall serve for more than
three (3) consecutive terms as a member of council. After serving
three (3) consecutive terms, such member of council shall be ineligible
to serve as a member of council until the council member has been
out of office at least one full term.
EXHIBIT 5
Draft Amendment 5
to Pueblo of Isleta Tribal Constitution
July 24, 2014 version — Revised BIA Approved
CREATE TERM LIMITS FOR THE GOVERNOR
The purpose of this amendment is to create limits on the number of
terms that an individual can serve as Governor. There are two options
to choose from, or you may choose to keep the current language
which contains no term limits.
Article IV — EXECUTIVE BRANCH
NO CURRENT LANGUAGE IN CONSTITUTION
PROPOSED, NEW LANGUAGE:
OPTION 1:
Section 9. The term of office of the governor shall be two (2) years,
coinciding with the term of council members and other elected
officers of the pueblo. No governor shall serve for more than two (2)
consecutive terms as a governor. After serving two (2) consecutive
terms, such governor shall be ineligible to serve as governor until he
has been out of office at least one full term.
OPTION 2:
Section 9. The term of office of the governor shall be two (2) years,
coinciding with the term of council members and other elected
officers of the pueblo. No governor shall serve for more than three
(3) consecutive terms as governor. After serving three (3) consecutive
terms, such governor shall be ineligible to serve as governor until he
has been out of office at least one full term.
Article V, Section 1. The Legislative Branch of the Pueblo of Isleta
shall consist of a council of seven (7) twelve (12) members, selected
as hereinafter provided.
Article V, Section. 8. Five (5) Eight (8) members of the council shall
constitute a quorum for the transaction of official business, and all
issues shall be decided by majority vote of those members present
and voting, except as otherwise provided in this constitution.
Article VI, Section 10. Of the votes for council members the top seven
(7) twelve (12) persons receiving the greatest number of votes will
constitute the council.
Article VI, Section 5. ..... and the top fourteen (14) twenty (24) persons
receiving the greatest number of votes shall be certified by the council
secretary as the only candidates for the seven (7) twelve (12) positions
for council members in the next general election of the pueblo.”
OPTION 2: Reduce to Nine (9) Members
Article V, Section 1. The Legislative Branch of the Pueblo of Isleta
shall consist of a council of nine (9) twelve (12) members, selected as
hereinafter provided.
Article V, Section. 8. Seven (7) Eight (8) members of the council shall
constitute a quorum for the transaction of official business, and all
issues shall be decided by majority vote of those members present
and voting, except as otherwise provided in this constitution.
Article VI, Section 10. Of the votes for council members the top nine
(9) twelve (12) persons receiving the greatest number of votes will
constitute the council.
Article VI, Section 5. ..... and the top eighteen (18) twenty four (24)
persons receiving the greatest number of votes shall be certified by
the council secretary as the only candidates for the nine (9) twelve
(12) positions for council members in the next general election of the
pueblo.
EXHIBIT 7
Draft Amendment 7
to Pueblo of Isleta Tribal Constitution
July 24, 2014 version — Revised BIA Approved
EXHIBIT 6
Draft Amendment 6
to Pueblo of Isleta Tribal Constitution
July 24, 2014 version — Approved by Tribal Council
REDUCE TRIBAL COUNCIL COMPOSITION AND
QUORUM REQUIREMENT
The purpose of this amendment is to reduce the composition of Tribal
Council. If the composition is reduced, then the quorum requirement
will also be reduced by this amendment. There are two options to
choose from, or you may choose to keep the current language which
contains twelve (12) Council seats. Note that one of these provisions
to be amended below (Article VI, Section 5) is also proposed to be
amended in Amendment 11, but for a different purpose (to reduce
number of candidates for Governor).
CURRENT LANGUAGE IN CONSTITUTION
Article V, Section 1. The Legislative Branch of the Pueblo of Isleta shall
consist of a council of twelve (12) members, selected as hereinafter
provided.
Article V, Section 8. Eight (8) members of the council shall constitute a
quorum for the transaction of official business, and all issues shall be
decided by majority vote of those members present and voting, except
as otherwise provided in this constitution.
SECRETARY OF COUNCIL TO BE ELECTED,
ARTICLES V AND VI
The purpose of this amendment is to clarify that the Council Secretary
is to be elected through vote by the Tribal Council members, not merely
designated or appointed by Tribal Council. Note that this provision
(Art. VI, Sec. 13) is also proposed to be amended by Amendment 9
and Amendment 10, but for different purposes (both related to the
appointment of Tribal Treasurer).
CURRENT LANGUAGE IN CONSTITUTION:
Article V, Section 5. The council shall at the first meeting of the
council elect amongst themselves a president and vice-president of
the council and designate one of its members as council secretary
as hereinafter provided, whose duty it shall be to keep the minutes
of council meetings, maintain the records, files, and membership roll
of the pueblo, and supervise the conduct of all general and special
elections of the pueblo.
Article VI, Section 11. On January 1, following any general election
of the pueblo the council at its first meeting shall elect amongst
themselves a president and vice-president of the council.
Article VI, Section 13. At the first council meeting following each general
election of the pueblo, the council shall appoint one of its members as
council secretary ....
Page 10
Isleta Pueblo News
PROPOSED AMENDMENT LANGUAGE:
Article V, Section 5. The council shall at the first meeting of the council
elect amongst themselves a president, and vice-president of the
council and a designate one of its members as council secretary as
hereinafter provided, whose duty it shall be to keep the minutes of
council meetings, maintain the records, files, and membership roll
of the pueblo, and supervise the conduct of all general and special
elections of the pueblo.
Article VI, Section 11. On January 1, following any general election
of the pueblo the council at its first meeting shall elect amongst
themselves a president and vice-president of the council and a council
secretary.
Article VI, Section 13. At the first council meeting following each general
election of the pueblo, the council shall appoint one of its members as
council secretary...
EXHIBIT 8
Draft Amendment 8
to Pueblo of Isleta Tribal Constitution
July 24, 2014 version — Revised BIA Approved
AUTHORIZE EARLY VOTING FOR GENERAL
AND SPECIAL ELECTIONS
The purpose of this amendment is to authorize early voting for general
and special elections, which the Constitution does not currently
authorize. If this amendment passes, Tribal Council will need to create
an ordinance prescribing the rules and procedures for early voting
before it exercised this new authority.
CURRENT LANGUAGE IN CONSTITUTION:
Article VI, Section 7. Voting shall be by secret ballot, the form of
which shall be established by the council.
Article VIII, Section 6(b). Each such registered voter shall re-register to
vote in the special election on a date and at a place to be designated
by the council, at least ten (10) days before the special election. At the
time such voter re-registers he or she shall by secret ballot, nominate
an eligible member of the pueblo as a candidate for the vacant office
or offices. Persons receiving the greatest number of votes will fill these
positions vacant at the special election.
PROPOSED AMENDMENT LANGUAGE:
Article VI, Section 7. Voting shall be by secret ballot, the form of which
shall be established by the council. Notwithstanding the foregoing
provisions, early voting shall be authorized for elections in conformity
with an appropriate ordinance of council and this constitution.
Article VIII, Section 6(b). Each such registered voter shall re-register to
vote in the special election on a date and at a place to be designated
by the council, at least ten (10) days before the special election. At the
time such voter re-registers he or she shall by secret ballot, nominate
an eligible member of the pueblo as a candidate for the vacant office
or offices. Persons receiving the greatest number of votes will fill
these positions vacant at the special election. Notwithstanding the
foregoing provisions, early voting shall be authorized for special
elections in conformity with an appropriate ordinance of council and
this constitution.
September 2014
Article VI, Section 13. At the first council meeting following each
general election of the pueblo, the council ... shall appoint a qualified
member of the pueblo as treasurer.
PROPOSED AMENDMENT LANGUAGE:
Article VI, Section 13. At the first council meeting following each
general election of the pueblo, the council ... shall appoint a qualified
individual member of the pueblo as treasurer.
EXHIBIT 10
Draft Amendment 10
to Pueblo of Isleta Tribal Constitution
July 24, 2014 version — Revised BIA Approved
ADD A 30-DAY TIMEFRAME TO APPOINT
TRIBAL TREASURER
The purpose of this amendment is to create a thirty (30) day timeframe
for Tribal Council to appoint a Tribal Treasurer. Note that this provision
(Art. VI, Sec. 13) is also proposed to be amended by Amendment 7
for a different purpose (related to Tribal Council Secretary) and also
by Amendment 9 for a different purpose (to delete of tribal member
requirement).
CURRENT LANGUAGE IN CONSTITUTION:
Article VI, Section 13. At the first council meeting following each general
election of the pueblo, the council ... shall appoint a .... treasurer.
PROPOSED AMENDMENT LANGUAGE:
Article VI, Section 13. Within thirty (30) days after At the first council
meeting following each general election of the pueblo, the council ...
shall appoint a .... treasurer.
EXHIBIT 11
Draft Amendment 11
to Pueblo of Isleta Tribal Constitution
July 24, 2014 version — Revised BIA Approved
REDUCE TOP CANDIDATES FOR GOVERNOR
FROM THREE TO TWO
Pursuant to the rules in the Constitution for general elections, during
the last weekend in October in an election year, people register to
vote and also nominate an individual to run for Governor (Art. VI, Sec.
5). The three (3) nominees with the greatest number of nominations
are then certified by Tribal Council Secretary to be candidates for
Governor. The purpose of this amendment is to reduce the number of
candidates to be certified from three (3) candidates to two (2). Note that
this provision (Article VI, Section 5) is also proposed to be amended
in Amendment 6, but for a different purpose (to reduce Tribal Council
composition).
CURRENT LANGUAGE IN CONSTITUTION
Article VI, Section 5. The three (3) eligible persons receiving the
greatest number of votes shall be certified by the council secretary as
the only candidates for the office of governor, ...
PROPOSED AMENDMENT LANGUAGE:
Article VI, Section 5. The two (2) three (3) eligible persons receiving
the greatest number of votes shall be certified by the council secretary
as the only candidates for the office of governor, ...
EXHIBIT 9
EXHIBIT 12
Draft Amendment 9
to Pueblo of Isleta Tribal Constitution
July 24, 2014 version — Revised BIA Approved
Draft Amendment 12
to Pueblo of Isleta Tribal Constitution
July 24, 2014 version — Revised BIA Approved
REMOVE “TRIBAL MEMBER” REQUIREMENT
FOR TRIBAL TREASURER
CLARIFY REMOVAL AND RECALL PROCEDURES FOR
ELECTED OFFICIALS
The purpose of this amendment is to remove the requirement that the
Tribal Treasurer must be a Pueblo of Isleta Tribal Member. Note that
this provision (Art. VI, Sec. 13) is also proposed to be amended by
both Amendment 9 for a different purpose (related to Tribal Council
Secretary) and also by Amendment 10 for a different purpose (to
create a thirty-day timeframe for Tribal Council to appoint the Tribal
Treasurer).
CURRENT LANGUAGE IN CONSTITUTION:
The purpose of this amendment is to amend this Article, which contains
procedures for removal and recall of an elected official from office.
The current language in this Article does not conform to the significant
changes made to the Constitution in 1990 concerning the election of
tribal officials. Prior to 1990, the individual with the highest number of
votes was elected Governor; the individual with the second highest
number of votes was elected Council President; and the individual with
the third highest number of votes was elected Council Vice President.
Each of these elected officials then appointed individuals to serve
September 2014
Isleta Pueblo News
on Tribal Council (Governor appointed four; Council President and
Vice President each appointed three). In 1990, the Constitution was
amended to require a vote and election of all Tribal Council members,
not just the President and Vice President. This Article (Art. VII) should
have also been amended in 1990 to reflect these changes but was not
proposed to be amended until now.
CURRENT LANGUAGE IN CONSTITUTION
ARTICLE VII — REMOVAL AND RECALL
Section 1. Any elected or appointed officer of the pueblo and any
member of the council who, during the term for which he is elected or
appointed, is convicted of a felony, shall thereupon forfeit his office.
Section 2. Any elected or appointed officer of the pueblo, member
or officer of the council, found guilty in any court of a misdemeanor
involving misconduct reflecting on the dignity and integrity of the tribal
government, or found guilty by the council of malfeasance in office, or
gross neglect of duty, may be removed or recalled from office in the
following manner:
(a) The council shall present the accused officer council member
with a written statement of the charges against him and, within ten
(10) days thereafter, the council shall hold a hearing at which the
accused shall be provided an opportunity to appear and be heard
in his own defense.
(b) Any appointed officer of the pueblo or council member may be
removed from office following such hearing by an affirmative vote
of not less than two-thirds (2/3) of the full council.
(c) Any elected officer of the pueblo, including the governor,
president, and vice-president of the council, shall be removed from
office following such hearing if*, by an affirmative vote of not less
than two-thirds (2/3) of the full council, the council shall vote to hold
a referendum election on the question of such recall, and provided
that a majority of the registered voters who cast their ballots in the
preceding election vote in favor of recall.
(d) The council shall call and hold a special election for the recall
of any elected officer of the pueblo within twenty-five (25) days
following receipt of a petition for recall signed by at least twenty-five
percent (25%) of the voters registered voting in the last preceding
general election of the pueblo. If the majority of those voting in
such a recall election cast their ballots in favor of such recall the
office shall be declared vacant, provided that not less than fifty
percent (50%) of the registered voters of the pueblo vote in the
recall election.
* Note: The word “if’ was mistakenly omitted from the 1991 published
version of the Constitution but exists in the original.
PROPOSED AMENDMENT LANGUAGE:
Section 1. Any elected or appointed officer of the pueblo who, during
the term for which he is elected or appointed, is convicted of a felony,
shall thereupon forfeit his office. An elected officer includes the
Governor and members of council. An appointed officer includes the
Tribal Court judges.
Section 2. Any elected or appointed officer of the pueblo who, during
the term for which he is elected or appointed, is found guilty in any
court of a misdemeanor involving misconduct reflecting on the dignity
and integrity of the tribal government, or found guilty by the council of
malfeasance in office, or gross neglect of duty, shall be removed or
recalled from office in the following manner: The council shall present
the accused elected or appointed officer with a written statement
of the charges against him and, within ten (10) days thereafter, the
council shall hold a hearing at which the accused shall be provided an
opportunity to appear and be heard in his own defense.
a) Removal and Recall of an Elected Officer. Any elected officer
of the pueblo shall be removed from office following such hearing,
by an affirmative vote of not less than two-thirds (2/3) of the entire
council. In the event a member of council is the accused, such
council member shall not take part in the vote. The council shall
then vote whether to hold a referendum election to recall the
elected officer by an affirmative vote of not less than two-thirds
(2/3) of the entire council. In the event a member of council is the
accused, such council member shall not take part in the vote. Such
elected officer shall then be recalled, provided that not less than
fifty percent (50%) of the registered voters of the pueblo vote in the
Page 11
recall election and provided that the majority of those voting cast
their ballots in favor of such recall. In the event that the majority of
the voters do not vote in favor of the recall, the removal shall be
overturned and the accused shall resume office. In the event that
less than fifty percent (50%) of the registered voters of the pueblo
do not vote in the recall election, the elected officer shall resume
office. Council shall not declare an elected officer’s seat vacant
until a referendum election for recall has been held and the elected
officer has been recalled pursuant to the recall election.
b) Removal of an Appointed Officer. Any appointed officer of the
pueblo shall be removed from office following such hearing by
an affirmative vote of not less than two-thirds (2/3) of the entire
council. The decision by council shall be final and not subject to a
recall election.
Section 3. Recall of an Elected Officer by Petition of the people.
Notwithstanding Section 2, an elected officer of the pueblo may be
recalled by petition of the people without being removed by council.
The council shall call and hold a special election for the recall of any
elected officer of the pueblo within twenty-five (25) days following
receipt of a petition for recall based on malfeasance or gross
neglect of duty in office that is signed by at least twenty-five percent
(25%) of the voters registered voting in the last preceding general
election of the pueblo. Such petition shall conform to procedures
enacted by council. If the majority of those voting in such a recall
election cast their ballots in favor of such recall the office shall be
declared vacant, provided that not less than fifty percent (50%) of
the registered voters of the pueblo vote in the recall election.
Isleta Pueblo News
Page 12
September 2014
Pueblo of Isleta Public Library
To all you “Feast Beast” of the Little Island, Happy Feast Time and a quick reminder, do not
forget to save a dollar or two for the Dancers. As for all you Dancers, do not forget your dollar for
when you visit the Saint because it is a bit awkward when you forget your dollar and you got the
watchful eye on you.
Now, onto another serious topic of Dove
season and careless hunters shooting toward
residential areas such as Ranchitos from
the riverbanks. The last three consecutive
years, shotgun BBs have rained down on
my family and I while outside during the
evening. Last year, we had stray bullets
zooming over our heads while we are doing
yard work. Moms, Aunts, Grandmothers,
please remind your hunters to be more
careful and do not be under the influence of
alcohol or drugs while hunting. Hopefully,
someone from the Isleta Police Department
and Range Patrol are reading this, you have
an advance notice of this on going issue
that puts community members in danger of
these stray bullets.
NEWS
Isleta Pueblo Feast Days will fall on
Thursdays, August 28 and September 4.
Therefore we will be closed both those
days. Please be aware of when your library
material is due so you do not acquire late
fees for you or your children. Remember
you may call the Library to renew library
material or if you set up a password for
your library account online, you can also
renew library material on there. Please
make prior accommodations for children
that attend our Homework Help Program.
Monday September 1st the Library will be
closed due to the Labor Day holiday. Enjoy
your three-day weekend and be safe!
The Library will have a booth set up at
the Isleta Head Start Orientation Monday
September 8th. We will be giving out
information about our upcoming programs
as well as giving out some awesome library
gear. Stop by our booth and say hi.
This year’s Annual Red Ribbon Run will
be taking place in Isleta September 3rd.
The Library will be collaborating with
Behavioral Health and giving out gift bags at
a roadblock for the runners and spectators.
We will have information on the books we
carry on everything related to Behavioral
Health. Support this event and get your
running shoes ready. For more information
you can contact the Isleta Behavioral Health
program at 505-869-5475.
Upcoming
Book club?? For the month of September
the Library will be having an Adult book
club dedicated to the Award Winning book
“Wicked” the Untold Stories of the Witches
of Oz. This program will officially start
Wednesday August 27th and continue
every Wednesday from 5:15pm-6:00pm
until September 24th. As an incentive,
participants that attend 4 of the 6 book
discussions will attend dinner and a showing
of Wicked the musical at Popejoy Hall
October 3, 2014 at 8:00pm. This program
is open to first 10 participants, 18 and
over. Registration is required! Please call
Diane at the Library for more information
at 505-869-9808 or email us at poi02006@
isletapueblo.com
Our Homework Help Program is in full effect
and is keeping the Library staff on our toes.
As our first incentive field trip students
ages 3-18 of any school can earn points by
completing homework and/or reading for
30 minutes and earn their way to a Lobo
Football game. The Lobos will be playing
against San Diego State University on
October 10th at 7:30. The first 10 students
to earn 35 points will enjoy this game
complimentary of the Library for all of their
hard work! If you have questions about this
incentive program please call Valeri at the
Library at 505-869-9808 or you may also
email poi02009@isletapueblo.com.
Do you believe in ghosts? Join the Library
in our Ghost Tour through Old Town
Albuquerque October 17th at 10pm. Open
to the first 15 adults, 18 and over. To earn
your way on this fun ghost tour, come
check out a Ghost Book from our Library
collection, Read 4 ghost stories from the
book, and write 4 short synopsis (forms
available at the library). Dinner provided
and transportation. Last year we took
approximately 12 adults on this Ghost Tour
during a full moon and they all had a fun
experience even though it was pretty cold
that night. If you have any questions please
call Tara at the Library at 869-9806 or
email poi02005@isletapueblo.com.
Halloween is just around the corner and
we all know what that means. Right?
Halloween Costumes! Save your money by
attending and participating in the Library’s
Halloween Costume Making Class every
Tuesday and Thursday starting September
16th through October 16th. This program
is open to 10 adults, 18 and over. Learn
the basics of sewing, pattern making and
of course, creating Halloween masks and
much more. With the Library staff, each
other’s and the help from our library books
you will create a one of a kind costume. All
supplies including sewing machines and
fabric will be provided. The Library will be
taking participants to purchase fabric and
supplies from Hancock Fabrics and Savers
Thursday, September 18th. You may sign
up starting Tuesday, September 2nd. For
more information you may call to speak
with Dianna or Tara at the Library at 505869-9808 or email poi02005@isletapueblo.
com.
Recap
Kutz for Kidz was a huge success and gave
fresh haircuts to all the children in Isleta.
Thank you to the Isleta Casino for hosting
a great event for our community. The
Library’s booth included a golf putting game
and as prizes we gave away Cd’s, Dvd’s and
Blu-Rays. We also signed up new Library
patrons and gave them their new library
card. Thank you for everyone who visited
our booth and got a sneak peek of our new
Darth Vader and Hulk cut outs that were
posted in front of our booth.
The Library visited the Isleta Elementary
on August 21st and set up a booth at their
open house. We handed out information
on our Homework Help Program and our
upcoming programs. We would like to
thank Isleta Elementary School for giving
us a booth and giving us the opportunity to
promote our programs for the children and
parents.
We are excited to be collaborating with the
Isleta Diabetes Program in the upcoming
months with programs that will benefit
the community and bring awareness to our
health. Please stay tuned, as we will bring
you more information as programs develop.
The Isleta Elder Center came to visit the
Library for an hour as one of their monthly
trips. We were excited to have them here as
we showed them our southwest collection
of books and movies. They also shared with
us what their interests were in hopes of
expanding our library collection. We hope
they come visit us every month to relax and
enjoy what our Library has to offer them.
Thank you Isleta Elder Center for visiting
us!
Pueblo of Isleta Public Library
Hours of Operation:
Library Hours
Mon-Thurs - 8:00 a.m. - 6:30 p.m.
Friday 8:00 a.m. - 4:30 p.m.
Saturday 9:00 a.m. - 1:00 p.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
Fax: 505-869-8119
Email: poi02002@isletapueblo.com
Facebook Page:
www.facebook.com/IsletaPuebloLibrary
Web Address:
www.isletapueblo.com/library2.html
YouTube:
www.youtube.com/user/poilibrary
September 2014
Isleta Pueblo News
Page 13
ISLETA ELEMENTARY SCHOOL NEWS!
Dear Parent(s) and Guardian(s),
On behalf of the Isleta Elementary School staff, I would like
to welcome the children and families to Isleta Elementary
School. School Year 2014-2015 promises to be an exciting
year for everyone. We are looking forward to working with
students and their parents. The teachers are ready to teach
and the students are ready to tackle the rigorous curriculum
of Isleta Elementary School.
As in the past, communication will come in the form of our
school calendar, phone blasts, Isleta Newsletter, and flyers.
Please check your child’s agenda/backpack daily, so that you
may be aware of upcoming events, changes, or requested
items.
Information regarding our 21st Century after school program
will be provided as soon as dates have been confirmed.
If you have any questions, please come by the school or give
us a call at 869-2321.
Respectfully,
Victoria Johnson, Acting Principal
Isleta Elementary
LOS LUNAS TITLE VII NEWS
Amy Mendez…English Teacher, Los Lunas High School
Amy Mendez is a teacher at Los Lunas High School who
teaches English II and English II Pre-AP. She graduated
from University of New Mexico with a Bachelor’s Degree in
Secondary Education.
Be an Election Worker
for the 2014
General Election
The Bernalillo County Clerk's office is recruiting
Poll Officials (election workers) to work Early
Voting and on Election Day. You must be a
registered voter in Bernalillo County.
Early Voting starts Oct. 18 to Nov. 1st and
shifts are 7:30 to 8 p.m. every other day, except
Sunday. Election Day is Tuesday, November
4. These are paid positions. All Poll Officials
must attend mandatory training and are paid
for training. Payment is made 30 days after the
election. Those assigned to Isleta work Tuesday
thru Saturday, 8 am to 5 pm during Early Voting
and 7 am to 7 pm Election Day. If you are fluent
in Tiwa, we encourage you to apply for the site
located in Isleta. In addition, we encourage those
in the community to apply to be a Poll Official to
work throughout the County. Please visit: www.
bernco.gov/clerk-poll-worker to learn more about
who can apply, see payment information, and to
apply online. In addition, students 16 to 17 years
of age are also eligible to work. Learn more about
the student program online at the site above. For
more information, visit the Clerk's Web site or call
(505) 468-1291, option 4.
Ms. Mendez began teaching for Albuquerque Public Schools
as a 7th grade Language Arts teacher. As a resident of Los
Lunas, she is happy to begin her school year with Los Lunas
High School.
Ms. Mendez is currently starting this semester on a master’s
degree from the University of New Mexico in Language and
Socio – Cultural studies. She is a member of the AVID site
team and believes strongly in creating a culture of college
readiness for all her students.
Ms. Mendez comes from a family of teachers. They have
been positive role models for her throughout her career. Her
grandmother was an excellent math teacher. Her mother is
a middle school language arts teacher, and her sister also
teaches English at Los Lunas High School. Several members
of her extended family are also educators.
Ms. Mendez is happily married to Freddie Mendez. The
couple just celebrated their one year anniversary this past
July.
Counselor Assignments for 2014 – 2015
A–G
Ms. Saiz
H – N Ms. Flores
O–Z
Ms. Macaferri – Rodrigues
Registrar
Ms. Cindy
Secretary Ms. Sandi
LOCATED IN ROOM 921
Ext 6007
Ext. 6016
Ext. 6006
Ext. 6008
Ext. 6144
Secondary Report Card Grading Periods 2014 – 2015
GRADING
PROGRESS
PERIOD
REPORT
END OF
GRADING
PERIOD
TEACHER
DEADLINE
REPORT CARDS
ISSUED
G-1
9/3/14
9/3/14
9/24/14
9/30/14
G-2
10/15/14
11/4/14
11/5/14
11/12/14
G-3
12/19/14
12/19/14
1/5/15
1/12/15
G-4
1/27/15
2/18/15
2/19/15
2/25/15
G-5
3/11/15
4/09/15
4/10/15
4/16/15
G-6
4/30/15
5/21/15
5/21/15
5/28/15
For any further information call Ben Analla, Title VII Indian
Education. Monday, Wednesday & Friday at Los Lunas High
School @ 865 – 4646, or Tuesday & Thursday at Valencia
High School @ 565 – 8755.
Isleta Pueblo News
Page 14
September 2014
Johnson-O’Malley Program
First off, a big hello from the J.O.M Program!
It has been a busy summer and start of the
school year here. We hope that this article
finds everyone healthy and adjusting to the
new school year. I’d like to take a moment to
share with you a recap of our latest events
before letting you know what is in store for
the new school year.
SUMMER PROGRAM
The J.O.M Summer Bridge Program came
to an end on July 25th and had a total of
24 students enrolled. More than half of the
students completed their Summer Bridge
Workbooks and one student worked very
hard and finished TWO workbooks! We
were very proud to see students learning
and participating in all of the lessons and
activities. It was both a joy and a privilege
to get to know the students, and for that, I
thank you parents for enrolling them.
and your students. This month (September)
please look for me at your schools’ Open
Houses. I plan to attend almost all of them!
If you are reading this, and your student
attends public school in Los Lunas or APS
(Isleta students only), and you have not yet
received school supplies from our program…
please give me a call at 869-9785 and I will
be happy to schedule an appointment with
you to come in and have a meeting with me.
Our goal is to reach as many of our eligible
students as we can, so don’t be shy!
UPCOMING EVENTS
SCHOOL SUPPLY DISTRIBUTION
The week of August 4th to the 9th the J.O.M
Program gave out school supplies to more
than 450 eligible students! Students who
are attending public school in Los Lunas
School District also received backpacks
courtesy of Los Lunas Indian Education
Program, so a BIG thank you to Valerie
Otero at Los Lunas Schools. Also, I’d like
to thank all of the parents and guardians
who came and attended the mandatory
meetings. I understand that you are all
busy and that attending a meeting can
sometimes be an inconvenience, but, my
hope is that after attending you understand
why it is so important to the program. We
literally cannot do this without you. It was
very good to see familiar faces and to meet
new people! I am looking forward to seeing
more of all of you and working with both you
The J.O.M Newsletter will resume this
month and include all the details for any
upcoming events that are scheduled. Right
now, my hope is to have the first experiential
learning opportunity (field trip) of the new
school year this month. I ask for your
patience as I am still working out the details.
The first official meeting of the school year
also took place on August 26th, and a new
I.E.C. member was elected. Again, please
check with the J.O.M Newsletter for more
information on your newest representative.
A new Academic Coach will be joining us
soon and when she does, I will be sure
to send out an introduction as well as an
updated tutoring schedule and sign up
information. If tutoring is something you
are interested in for your student, keep an
eye out for the announcement OR feel free
to give me a call and I’ll put you on a list to
be contacted personally. I’m very excited for
her arrival!
As always, please let us know how we can
assist your student to meet their educational
goals. If you have any questions, suggestions,
or comments regarding your J.O.M Program
or any of the services provided, DO NOT
HESITATE to call, e-mail, or stop by. I
hope to see many of you at the schools Open
Houses, don’t forget to say hi! Take care
and have a great school year!
Bernadette Correa
Supervisory Academic Counselor
Page 16
Isleta Pueblo News
September 2014
The Disappearing Rio Grande Expedition...
... from the source in southern Colorado to
the Gulf of Mexico.
On Tuesday morning, August 19, 2014, at
about 8:00 AM, the Pueblo of Isleta Cultural
Committee members, headed by Director
Valentino Jaramillo, along with War Chief
Paul Jiron and other tribal members waited
on the east bank of the Rio Grande River,
by the Diversion Dam, for three people
floating down river on canoes...on their way
to the Gulf of Mexico. That's right, the Gulf
of Mexico. What some people will do for fun.
It's only another, maybe 1600 miles plus
from Isleta.
News reporter (The Texas Tribune) Colin
McDonald, and photojournalist Erich
Schlegal will be traveling the entire length
of the River, which begins in the Rocky
Mountains of southern Colorado .... Only
1900 miles from there to the Gulf. During
their canoe ride they will be "interviewing
those who depend on and control the River,
taking photos and videos, and cataloging
the chemistry and biology of the River." An
almost complete story about the River.
Another sometime-member of the group,
who was here on Tuesday, and on
Wednesday drove home to Austin, Texas
was Jonas Jones ... US Marine, now —
civilian adventurer, canoe racer ... and he
never said what else he was or is... He spent
time in Afghanistan and "canoed up and
down the Amazon River". The Amazon in
South America... so what's a little floating
down the Rio Grande? ... probably for Jonas
... boring... He will be, again, joining the
group somewhere in Texas sometime in
September. Did you know that breakfast in
the Amazon consists of eggs and piranha?
... and the Natives eat parakeets?
Estimated time of arrival in the El Paso area
is near the end of September, 2014. From
there for maybe 500 miles, water is scarce
and the plan is, but what else ... "walk" till
you find water.
War Captain Paul Jiron, who had never
paddled in his life, floated down the River
in one of the canoes to the Los Charcos
area from the Diversion Dam...and without
a lifejacket. Now we know why he's War
Chief. Having spent time in and along the
River "Paul knows every foot of the Rio
Grande as it flows across the Pueblo's land."
He became a valuable guide as he pointed
out the different types of vegetation and "he
knew near which bank to paddle along to
find the deepest water." From Los Charcos,
Colin would be on his own, all the way to
Belen, where Erich would join him...and
from that point...maybe 20 — 25 miles less
to the Gulf... 1,575 only more miles... By the
way, estimated time of arrival is January
25, 2015. A lot of people will be a year older
by then.
It's a great expedition, which in the end, we
can all read about in the book which Colin
will write, and look at pictures that Erich
will take ... and Jason ... maybe he will be
somewhere "having breakfast".
While in Isleta, they met and talked to a lot
of people, including the Cultural Committee
elders, of course War Chief Paul Jiron, and
Daryl Lucero, who gave them a tour of
his adobe making project southeast of the
diversion dam. Check the web site for their
story...and pictures. The below pictures are
right off the web site.
...and we bid them bon voyage ... that's what
Europeans say when going off to sea ... or
maybe river?
You can check-in with Colin and Erich,
by simply logging onto http://riogrande.
texastribune.org. "Colin will be periodically
activating a device that uses satellite
technology to share his current location."
Each day you can see where Colin and Erich
may be on the Rio Grande. On Thursday
morning, I called Colin on his cell and he
was on the River at Beeland ... no it's Belen
... he's from Texas. Erich walked into town
for food. No piranhas or parakeets in the
Rio Grande.
Colin McDonald tows his canoe down the
Rio Grande just upstream of Belen, New
Mexico. Photo by: Erich Schlegel
Isleta War Chief Paul Jiron, right, and
Colin McDonald paddle their canoe.
Photo by: Erich Schlegel
Erich Schlegel, in front, and Ulysses
Abeita haul Erich’s canoe out of the brush
along the Rio Grande.
Photo by: Jason Jones
Isleta War Chief Paul Jiron and Colin
McDonald talk to a farmer before
launching on the Rio Grande.
Photo by: Erich Schlegel
Colin wades the Rio Grande in ankle deep
water. He should stand up straight, but he
is very tired. Photo by: Erich Schlegel
Isaiah Abeita. who is eight years old,
takes his first paddle in a canoe.
Photo by: Erich Schlegel
Isleta War Chief Paul Jiron, left, and
Colin McDonald launch their canoe.
Photo by: Erich Schlegel
September 2014
Isleta Pueblo News
Page 17
Parks & Recreation
As August comes to an end we now are focusing
our attention on the after-school program.
Because our summer program closed on
August 1st and immediately thereafter we had
per capita distribution in the gymnasium we
finally closed down from August 6th through
August 15th to give the New Rec. facility a
much needed deep cleaning. Work included
sanding and varnishing the gym floor, stripping
and waxing the tile floors throughout the
facility, emptying the swimming pool tank and
doing some electrical repairs on our lighting
and doing some minor painting. Children and
parents, if you are interested in our Afterschool program either at the Old Rec. Center
under the direction of Kimberly Chiwewe
and Constance Olguin or at the New Rec.
Center under the direction of Antonio Garcia,
Derrick Jiron, and John Jojola please get them
registered as soon as possible. Although most
of our children were registered for the summer
program we do want up-dated information for
the Fall, Winter and Spring program. New Rec.
Center will have the 3 Nanas doing the Arts/
Crafts program as well. The real big difference
with both programs is the children who participate at Old Rec. at Pickle Heights get picked
up at our Elementary School and also taken home at the conclusion of the program. With
the New Rec. Program we pick them up at our Elementary School and parents must pick
them up prior to 6:00 pm. Lots of activities especially field trips may be held together
when possible. Both programs will help children with homework prior to engaging in fun
activities. Also at New Rec. those interested in the Cross-Country Running program can
contact Phillip Abeita at 869-9777. Cross Country Meets will be against the other SPA Elementary Schools in our region. Practice takes
place everyday about 6:00 pm. Pictured right are of the building and the cleanliness of the facility after the closure of the facility after
the busy summer program. Head Maintenance Technician, Mike Sarracino and several recreation leaders did an outstanding job of
cleaning up the facility.
Park Management
Because it is now starting to get dark earlier and days are now beginning to
cool, our park management staff have recently gone back to the fall, winter
and spring schedule which is coming in at 6:00 am until 2:30 pm as opposed
to the summer schedule of 5:00 am to 1:30 pm. Many folks who are out early
running/walking at our parks or on the jogging path have expressed feeling
safe knowing the crew is out cleaning and mowing the parks but as darkness
gets longer and days get cooler we go back to the 6:00 am start-up time.
Special Note: Once again, I as your Director, express my sincere gratitude to
all my park and recreation employees for doing an outstanding job this past
summer in providing programs and services at both New Rec. and Old Rec.
at Pickle Heights to our children and families and for providing our beautiful
parks which have been maintained at the highest level imaginable. This past
summer, we served the most children ever in my 14 years as your Director.
Believe me, it was not easy, and at times we did have some issues that we dealt with, but regardless the staff came through like true
professionals. I honestly believe that we have a program that is second to none in this whole State of New Mexico. Parents who have read
about or visit our programs, especially during the summer, would do anything to be part of this facility and the programs we offer. Our
parents and children are very lucky that we have an Administration and Tribal Council who have continually supported our children’s
activities. Pictured is one of our last summer activities with children and some staff standing in front of the giant obstacle course which
was set up in the gym for the children to enjoy.
Halloween Extravaganza
Cross Country Program
Although by the time everyone receives this newsletter, we will
barely be peeking into the month of September, we however will be
in preparation mode for the Halloween Extravaganza that will be
taking place on Friday, October 24th. Many folks have asked why
not have the party on Halloween Night? which is Friday, October
31st. Our employees and many volunteers have expressed the need
to be home on that night to pass out goodies to our children who
probably wouldn't come on the 31st because of their own trick or
treating which is a tradition for many. When we host the party, we
want children and parents spending the evening with us and not
just dropping in for a few minutes. An organizational meeting will
take place in early to mid September.
As I mentioned in my opening paragraph, the Cross Country
program is in full swing. At present Coach Phillip Abeita reports
that he has about 40 children participating in the program as of
right now. Practices are held everyday Monday through Thursday,
held either at the New Rec. Center or at Big Momma Hill. For those
children who will be participating in our other sports programs in
a few months, this is an excellent way to fight diabetes and obesity
and stay in shape for the next sport, which is basketball.
September 2014
Isleta Pueblo News
Page 19
Tiwa Lending Services is Recruiting New Board Members ( TLS )
Are you interested in becoming a board member of Tiwa
Lending Services?
Who is Tiwa Lending Services?
Tiwa Lending Services ("TLS") is a non-profit Native Community
Development Financial Institution (CDFI) whose mission is to
promote community development and the economic growth of the
Isleta Pueblo community by creating homeownership and small
business opportunities for the Isleta Pueblo community and other
Native Americans living within the surrounding communities.
TLS's Board of Directors consists of 5 persons. Directors
consist of two community members and three professional
members preferably with financial, lending or business
backgrounds. Board members must meet at least one of the
following criteria: 1) be Native American, 2) live or work
in the Isleta Pueblo community service area, or 3) own a
business in the Isleta Pueblo community service area.
Description of Board Duties
The Board of Directors serves as the governing body of TLS. Board
members will serve 2 year terms. The Board meets monthly.
Board members have the following roles and responsibilities:
1.
2.
3.
4.
5.
6.
Uphold the bylaws of the TLS.
Define and oversee the mission of TLS and ensure that
this mission is carried out.
Ensure that the events and programs of TLS are relevant
to its mission and monitor their effectiveness.
Provide strategic guidance to TLS.
Ensure financial solvency and help raise resources.
Ensure continuous board improvement. Each member of
the board shall commit to the following:
•
Fully attend all meetings of the board.
•
Serve on one or more committees.
•
Understand board member roles and responsibilities
and become sufficiently knowledgeable about TLS and its
operations to make informed decisions.
•
Read all materials sent to the board and come
prepared to provide meaningful dialogue at all board and
committee meetings.
•
Arrive at meetings on time and stay for the full
agenda unless notification is provided in advance to the
board or committee chair.
•
Ask for clarification on any matters or material not
understood before making a decision.
•
Listen carefully and respectfully to other board
members and staff with objectivity.
•
Actively support the policies and goals adopted by
the board, speaking with one unified voice.
•
Act as a liaison between the TLS and the
community.
Specific Board members will serve as overseers of the following:
1.
2.
3.
Overseer of Financial Management — The overseer of
TLS's financial management system. This Board
member shall work with the sub- committee to
develop and manage an annual budget.
Leader of Public Relations —This Board member will
oversee the development of all print, web, radio,
and multi-media materials pertinent to the TLS and
the events it sponsors. This board member is
responsible for ensuring that all public relations
material upholds the mission and standards of TLS.
Overseer of Fundraising — This board member will
oversee fundraising efforts. They will help
recruit and retain members for the fundraising
committee and will help manage TLS's fundraising
database, manage the creation and content of fundraising
4.
5.
material and ensure that organization supporters are
recognized for their contributions.
Overseer of Events —This board member will oversee
community events and work with committee event
chairs to ensure that the overall message of the event
is consistent with the mission of TLS. This board
member will also actively work with the communities and
other organizations to recruit partnerships for
new events.
Board and Committee Recruitment —This board member
will oversee the recruitment of new volunteers and board
members.
Board members will be expected to attend training on Native
Lending institutions and lending.
If you are interested in serving as a board member please
send a letter of interest and resume to the Pueblo of Isleta
Governor's Offices or by mail, in person, facsimile or
electronic mail to:
Sheila D. Herrera, Executive Director
Tiwa Lending Services
P.O. Box 1270
Isleta, N.M. 87022
sheila@tiwalending.org
(505) 916-0556
Facsimile: (505) 869-7596
September 2014
Car Seat Clinics
Isleta Health Center
Health Educator, Stephanie Barela
869-4479 sbarela@islclinic.net
During Child Passenger Safety Week this
year (September 14-20, 2014), in addition to
continuing to stress the vital importance of
car seat inspections and hands-on education,
the National Highway Traffic Safety
Administration is making a special effort in
emphasizing two key messages:
• REGISTER YOUR CHILD’S SAFETY
SEAT. According to NHTSA and car
seat manufacturers, far too few seats are
registered, exposing children to heightened
risk in the event of a recall. IT IS IMPORTANT
to REGISTER YOUR CHILD’S Safety Seat.
It is also quick, free and readily accessible
electronically.
• CHILDREN UNDER 13 SHOULD
RIDE IN THE BACK SEAT. This is the
safest place for them – according to NHTSA,
on average, more than 100 children in the
8-14 age group die in crashes each year
while riding in the front seat.
Why is it important to use Child Safety
Seats for your child?
Motor vehicle injuries are the leading cause
of death among children in the United
States, but many of these deaths can be
prevented. Placing children in age- and
size-appropriate car seats and booster
seats reduces serious and fatal injuries by
more than half, according to the Centers of
Disease Control (www.CDC.com). In the
United States during 2009, 1,314 children
ages 14 years and younger died as occupants
in motor vehicle crashes, and approximately
179,000 were injured. One CDC study
found that in one year, more than 618,000
children ages 0-12 rode in vehicles without
the use of a child safety seat, booster seat
or a seat belt at least some of the time. Not
only are parents not insuring the child to be
in a safety seat, but if they do put them in
a safety seat, it is usually used incorrectly.
One study found that 72% of nearly 3,500
observed car and booster seats were misused
in a way that could be expected to increase
a child’s risk of injury during a crash. Not
only do we see national studies that show a
high number of car seats being incorrectly
used, but every year at Isleta Health
Center’s Car Seat Clinic’s, we see many car
seats improperly installed and misused. The
Isleta Health Center had a Car Seat Clinic
on May 30, 2014 at the Isleta Rec Center.
There were 8 Car seats inspected, 5 of which
were incorrect for the child, which is a 63%
misuse rate. This shows how important it is
to get your child’s car seat checked, to insure
the safety of it. We will be having our next
Car Seat Clinic on October 18th from 9am
to 11am at the Isleta Health Center. Please
call with any questions - 869-4482 or 8694479.
Isleta Pueblo News
Page 21
Isleta Pueblo News
Page 22
September 2014
WIC NOTES
Assisted Living & Memory
Care Facility Update
We are getting closer to the completion of Our New Assisted
Living Facility & Memory Care Unit. Construction is on target
for completion by December 2014. Once the building is fully
constructed it will undergo numerous inspections to ensure the
facility is safe and ready for occupancy. The Tribal Planning
department has been working diligently on obtaining quotes
for the furniture, fixtures, & equipment (FF&E) for the facility
and meetings with the Tribal Planning Department continue as
needed.
The WIC staff would like to thank all of you who attended our
annual World Breastfeeding Day Celebration on August 1st. Our
WIC families enjoyed food and fellowship. Our breastfeeding moms
were awarded a "Thank You for Breastfeeding" certificate and both
our nursing moms and moms-to-be were given appreciation gifts.
Everyone enjoyed food and the kids especially liked the snow cones
and inflatable jumper.
A special “Thank You” to Dr. Chynowith who stopped by to
represent the POI health clinic providers. Dr. Chynowith
publically thanked our beastfeeding moms. We sincerely
appreciate her and her team’s support.
The policies & procedures are being reviewed by the Tribal
Attorney’s Office to ensure compliance with the NM Department
Please join us next year!
of Health’s rules & regulations for an Adult Assisted Living
Finger Foods
Facility.
Until about 9 months feeding your baby has been your job. But as
Job descriptions have been created and have been reviewed by the
your baby gets older, your little one will want to do this more and
Tribal Attorney’s Office and the Human Resources Department.
more on his or her own.
Upon approval by the Tribal Council these job descriptions will
be posted by the Human Resources Department to initiate the When babies begin feeding themselves — a new task most really
process of recruitment. A preliminary budget has been developed enjoy — they'll find that they like trying new tastes and textures.
and submitted to the Tribal Treasurer for final review. Contracts No longer are baby purees and mushy cereals the only things on the
have been obtained and provided to the Tribal Attorneys and menu.
Procurement Department for review and to establish new vendors By the time they're 9 months old, most babies have developed the
for the facility.
fine motor skills — the small movements — needed to pick up small
Currently, meetings are being scheduled with the 4 Centennial
Care MCOs (Blue Cross Blue Shield, Molina, Presbyterian, and
United Healthcare) to establish reimbursement rates for those
residents that are Medicaid enrolled or eligible.
pieces of food and feed themselves. You may notice that yours can
take hold of food (and other small objects) between forefinger and
thumb in a pincer grasp.
Allow your child to self-feed as much as possible, though you'll still
At this time, community members have been contacting the be helping out by spoon-feeding. Encouraging finger feeding helps
Administrator to obtain information about the facility and what the your child develop independent, healthy eating habits.
process is for potential residents. The Administrator is currently Finger feeding gives babies some control over what they eat and
taking contact information regarding potential residents.
how much. Sometimes they will eat the food, sometimes not, and
For more information regarding the Pueblo of Isleta Assisted that's all part of the normal process of learning self-regulation. Even
babies can tell when they're hungry or full, so let them learn to
Living & Memory Care Facility, you may:
recognize and respond to these cues. Do not encourage your baby to
► Contact the Administrator to obtain general information
eat if she is not interested in food, it just means she is not hungry.
at (505) 869-5560.
► Upon receipt of general information of the potential What are finger foods: Small pieces of safe foods that your little
resident, an appointment will be set up to discuss the Pre- one can pick up and eat by herself.
screening Admission Assessment process which includes the When to introduce them: Once your child can use her thumb and
admission criteria and the types of services offered by the fingers to pick up small things, usually around 9 months.
facility.
► The Administrator will review the facility floor plan Good foods to try. Safe foods include small pieces of banana, small
pieces of well cooked pasta and cereal like Cheerios and Kix.
including a “sneak preview” of the resident’s room.
Next Community Meeting in regards to the Facility will be:
Wednesday, September 10, 2014
Elder Center Kiva Room
6:00 pm
*Refreshments to be served*
How to stay safe: Always have your child sit up awhile eating, and
stay nearby in case she starts to choke.
Check with your pediatrician before starting finger foods.
Heidi Lanes, WIC Nutrition Coordinator
One Bowl Chocolate Cake
By making this simple cake from scratch,
you can use healthful oil, whole-wheat
flour, and no-calorie sweetener.
Ingredients:
• 3/4 cup(s) whole-wheat pastry
flour
• 2 tablespoon(s) whole-wheat
pastry flour, combined with above flour
• 1/4 cup Splenda Sugar Blend for
Baking OR 1/2 cup(s) sugar
• 1/3 cup(s) unsweetened cocoa
powder
• 1 teaspoon(s) baking powder
• 1 teaspoon(s) baking soda
• 1/4 teaspoon(s) salt
• 1/2 cup(s) nonfat buttermilk
• 1/4 cup Splenda Sugar Blend for
Baking OR 1/2 cup(s) packed light
brown sugar
• 1 large egg, lightly beaten
• 2 tablespoon(s) canola oil
• 1 teaspoon(s) vanilla extract
• 1/2 cup(s) hot strong black coffee
• Confectioner’s sugar, for dusting
Directions:
1. Preheat oven to 350 degrees F.
Coat a 9-inch round cake pan with
cooking spray. Line the pan with a
circle of wax paper .
2. Whisk flour, Splenda (or
granulated sugar), cocoa powder,
baking powder, baking soda and salt in
a large bowl. Add buttermilk, Splenda
(or brown sugar), egg, oil and vanilla.
Beat with an electric mixer on medium
speed for 2 minutes. Add hot coffee and
beat to blend. (The batter will be quite
thin.) Pour the batter into the prepared
pan.
3. Bake the cake until a skewer
inserted in the center comes out clean,
30 to 35 minutes. Cool in the pan on a
wire rack for 10 minutes; remove from
the pan, peel off the wax paper and
let cool completely. Dust the top with
powdered sugar before slicing.
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.