Pueblo of Isleta website: www.isletapueblo.co (2024)

Volume 19 Issue 9

Isleta Pueblo News

Pueblo of Isleta website: www.isletapueblo.co

September 2024

Governor’s Report

Maguwam,

We hope this newsletter finds our community

in good health and spirits. We would like

to welcome back staff and students for this

upcoming school year. As a reminder we ask

everyone to be cautious during this time

with bus stops and construction around the

reservation. Parent and students, we wish

you all a safe and blessed school year.

or MRGCD staff. If you are found to be

tampering with or lifting a check gate

without proper authorization, you may be

charged with trespass or misuse of public

property.

As we continue to celebrate in honor of

St. Augustine, Isleta’s Patron Saint, the

Mayordomos would like to extend this invite

to join them for Vespers Mass on September

3rd at 7pm with precession, traditional

dances, food, and a live band. The feast day

to continue on September 4th with Mass

at 9am, procession, traditional dances and

food. We would like to recognize and thank

our Mayordomos for hosting this feast day:

Tribal administration would like to extend

our gratitude to the departments, directors

and employees for all the events that have

taken place. We would like to continue to

encourage the community to participate in

these events, as these are for you!

We would like to thank the community

who attended in the community meeting on

August 24th at the Isleta Resort and Casino.

Our office has collaborated with our POI

departments to hold the 2nd Youth Summit

and extended the invitation to families, as

well. We look forward to hosting the next

summit, more information forthcoming.

We would like to remind everyone, exercise

caution around the drainage canals and

ditches. During irrigation and monsoon

seasons, the water levels and pressures in

the drains can change rapidly and become

very dangerous. Swimming in the ditches is

strictly prohibited. All tribal members and

residents are required to respect check gates

and locks. Check gates may only be lifted

by authorized personnel, mayordomos,

Mayordomos:

Michael Eastman and Theresa Montoya

Robert and Laura Eddakie

Joe and Wilberta Lucero

Tristen and Dawn Kasero

Ami Riley and Loretta Mojica

Mayordomos

September 3rd: Jacob Valdez

September 4th: Terrance Lujan

We would like to take this time to recognize

and thank our Mayordomos for hosting the

St. Augustine Feast Day on Wednesday,

August 28th. We thank the families, and

friends who helped make this feast day

special. I would also like to thank the POI

Departments in assisting with the set up

to make our feast day special! HAWU,

everyone and many blessing to you in

return.

We have issued a memo regarding no fishing

or swimming in the Rio Grande River on

the West and East side. We ask that you

follow all signs posted regarding this order,

we are working on re-opening the North

side of the river soon. We appreciate your

patience.

Last, we want to send my condolences to the

families of those who have lost their family

members during the month of August.

Ha-Wuh

Max A. Zuni

Governor Pueblo of Isleta

Page 2

Isleta Pueblo News

September 2024

LETTER FROM THE EDITOR

DEADLINE for October Newsletter articles is set for

Wednesday, September 18, 2024, at 4:30 pm. Articles

may be dropped off at the Library or emailed to Nathaniel.

Lujan@isletapueblo.com. Should you email your article,

expect a confirmation email. If you do not receive a

confirmation email, odds are it never made it to me and

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

People who wish to submit an article or flyer are responsible

for generating their own article or flyer. Should you need

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

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

will help you throughout the process. The Library will NOT

accept notes dropped off at the Library or information over

the phone to generate your article.

PROBATES need to be published in the Newsletter for

two consecutive months. Probates are considered court

documents, therefore, all submitters must provide: 1)

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

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

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

com/newsletters.html .

CLASSIFIED ADS: The new administration has requested

that the Newsletter start a Classified Ad section for Tribal

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

farm equipment. Leasing of houses and mobile homes will

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

flea markets or weekly yard sales will NOT be accepted.

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

houses, and mobile homes must be within the reservation

boundaries. Ads must meet the 160 character limit. Ads

that exceed the 160 characters will NOT be submitted into

the Newsletter. A single picture may be submitted with

the ad. Submitters of classified ads are responsible for

generating their own ads as this is a FREE service.

As a reminder, Tribal business owners may submit a small

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

are responsible for generating their own flyers as this is a

FREE service.

Classified ads and business flyers will be posted no

more than two consecutive months. In the event where

the Newsletter may exceed the 24-page limit, classified

ads and business flyers will be “bumped” for newsletter

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

The Isleta Newsletter is owned and operated by the Pueblo

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

has the final say of all articles and contents within the

Isleta Newsletter.

For additional questions, you my call the Library and

speak with Nate or Diane at 505.869.9808.

Thank you,

Nathaniel Lujan

Newsletters may be found at the fifteen distribution

locations listed below. Remember, Digital copies of the

Newsletter may be obtained from the Newsletter archive

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

The fifteen Newsletter distribution locations are:

1.

2.

3.

4.

5.

6.

7.

8.

9.

10.

11.

12.

13.

14.

15.

TR 2 & TR 22 - Chical SE of Community Hall

TR 10 - Behind the old 47 Sales

TR 1 & TR 5 – Ranchitos / Bosque Farms

Reservations Line

Ranchitos Park

Post Office - Big Tree

TR 82 & TR 84 - Teller Road

TR 78 & TR 82 - Carlos Trujillo Sr.

TR 90 @ Y - CF Padilla

Mouse Town Park –

Health Center – South end of Health

Center Parking lot

Library Sunlight & Moonlight Intersection

TR 6 - 47 Intersection

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

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

Railroad Tracks

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

DEPARTMENT OF CULTURAL & HISTORIC

PRESERVATION

Isleta Pueblo and Our Little Island Lecture Series

Isleta Pueblo Cultural Center will be hosting our Fall

Lecture Series with Councilman Randy Jiron. He will

speak on the history of Isleta’s past and how Isleta was

given the name “Little Island”.

Beginning September 19th 6:00pm to 7:30pm

Isleta Pueblo Cultural Center

71 Tribal Road 40

Isleta Pueblo, New Mexico

Come and Enjoy Our History and Camaraderie

from Past to Present

Contact the Isleta Pueblo Cultural Center

at 505-869-9767

September 2024

Isleta Pueblo News

Page 3

Thank You From

The Pueblo of Isleta Environment

Department

We would like to thank everyone who attended the 2024

Environmental Fair! This year’s Environmental Fair

marked the 10th annual fair. We had over 60 exhibitors

participate including a combined event with Department of

Education’s Back-to-School Supply event. We were excited

to combine these two events as it brought more children and

their families to the fair. We would like to give a huge shout

out to Department of Ed. staff members for their assistance

and collaboration. There were a variety of table displays

ranging from environmental educational materials, parrots,

live snakes, and so much more! We hope you enjoyed the fair

and learned something from all the environmental experts

and exhibitors. If you missed this event, do not worry

because the Environmental Fair will return next year!

ENVIRONMENT

Monthly surface water quality results

Albuquerque Bernalillo County Water Utility Authority reported an exceedance in

the concentration of E. coli at its outfall, which is where treated wastewater flows

into the Rio Grande at the Southside Water Reclamation Plant (SWRP) located

south of Rio Bravo Blvd. On August 5, 2024 a grab sample measured over 2,519

CFU per 100 ml. The following day, on August 6, 2024, the compliance E. coli grab

sample at the same point of collection was 4.1 CFU/100 ml. The UV system was

inspected for deficiencies by the SWRP and none were found. POI Environment

collected water quality samples from the Rio Grande at NM 147 and west of Isleta

Lakes:

Special thanks to the Following POI Departments

and Programs: Department of Education, Animal Control,

B’ee-K’oo-ee Wellness Center Prevention Program, Forestry

Department, Isleta Head Start, Isleta Health Center, Isleta

Police Department, Public Works, Parks & Recreation

Department, Social Services, Victim Services, Water

Resources Department, and WIC.

LAND FOR SALE

•

•

•

4.782+ Acres

Tribal Road 10

Call, Text, or Voicemail

Kimo @ (505) 506-3432

*Water quality samples are collected on a monthly basis from the Rio Grande

except Indian Interior Drain at 240 Wasteway, Albuquerque Riverside Drain, and

the irrigation locations.

- Dash in data table indicates sample not collected.

“MPN” is a unit of measure that stands for most probable number. MPN is equivalent

to colony forming units (“CFU”).

The Pueblo of Isleta’s most stringent surface water quality standard for E. coli

bacteria is 88 MPN/100 ml at all times and at all flow rates.

Please continue to watch signage at the NM 147 bridge for surface water quality

advisory

No fishing or swimming is allowed on the east and west side of the Rio Grande

River nor ditches by Order of the Governor; please follow all signs posted regarding

Governor’s order.

If you have questions about surface water quality, contact Ramona Montoya, Water

Quality Control Officer, at 505-869-7565.

Isleta Pueblo News

Page 4

Job Postings

Visit us online at http://

www.isleta.com/career-opportunities.aspx

Fax: 505-244-8232

September 2024

OUR LOCATION

Isleta Resort and Casino is located 7 minutes south of downtown Albuquerque at

Interstate 25 and Hwy 47, exit 215. The Human Resources office can be found

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

The New Beginnings Job Search

We are looking for someone to assist in community integration

to help an individual to enhance their personal, social, and

vocational experience successfully in the community by attending

several functions within the surrounding communities and

local Albuquerque, Los Lunas, Belen areas. Focusing on, but

not limited to broadening possibilities in the community and

general population activities. Individual support is based on

the identified needs and desires of the person served who has a

disability daily. Individuals are active partners in determining

the activities they desire to participate in and identifying their

most meaningful experiences.

Job Qualifications

- Must be 18 years of age

- Ability to read and carry out the requirements of the job

- Ability to communicate in the language that is

functionally required by the individual

- Must complete all state required competencies

- Must have a valid driver’s license and insurance

- Must have own vehicle to transport to and from activities

- Must have a high school diploma or equivalent

- Will receive mileage reimbursement

- 60 hours per bi-weekly/paid every two weeks

- Salary negotiable

Please contact if any questions or concerns:

Christian Satterfield

505-363-6421

The New Beginnings, LLC

Goodwill

Goodwill Goodjobs! Serving Albuquerque south valley/

Isleta Pueblo, and Valencia County

We offer individual free assistance with job search,

interview skills, and resume assistance.

Contact : Vicki Herring

Career Specialist at

505-944-0289

Vicki Herring

Career Specialist

Goodwill Industries of New Mexico

_____________________________________

vherring@goodwillnm.org

505-944-0289 or 505-881-6401 x4097

201 Desert Willow Rd, Los Lunas, NM 87031

www.Goodwillit.org

September 2024

Isleta Pueblo News

Page 5

Pueblo of Isleta Career Opportunities

Position Posting Office Location

Closing Date

Position Posting Office Location

Closing Date

Page 6

Isleta Pueblo News

September 2024

CURTIS GARCIA

Our family would like to

congratulate Curtis Garcia

for completing Marine Corps

bootcamp on August 16, 2024.

He is the son of Christine

(Renee) Anzara and Ben

Garcia.

Curtis signed up for the Marine

Corps on May 5, 2023 while he

was a junior in high school. He

would meet with his recruiter

every Wednesday, where he

would prepare for bootcamp

and learn what is expected to

be a marine. He graduated Los Lunas High School on May

18, 2024 and two days later he shipped out to MCRD San

Diego for 13 weeks.

During his time at bootcamp, he endured rigorous training

and learned more about the Marine Corps history. Since he

was in JROTC in high school, he graduated bootcamp as

Private First Class. He is currently back home for little over

a week. During his break, he plans to visit family, eat all the

food he missed, and relax as much as he can, but more then

likely you will probably find him at the gym.

He reports back to Camp Pendleton on August 28, where he

will start Infantry training. This training will not be as strict

as bootcamp, but he will be in training for 14 weeks. Once he

completes this training, he will be notified of his duty station.

Words cannot express how proud we are of Curtis. He chose

his career path and continues to push his way through. We

all are looking forward to see where his journey will take

him. Curtis has had a great support system during this time,

not just including his family and friends, but also from other

military personnel who have encouraged him to chase his

dreams.

Please join our family to congratulate and pray for him to

give him strength and motivation in his military career.

Thank you to everyone who has supported and guided him.

We are so proud of our Marine! Also, thank you to all our

other service men and women who have served and continue

to serve our country!

We love you hetu!

Thank you from the family of PFC Curtis Garcia, United

States Marine Corps!

Isleta Pueblo News

Editor:

Nathaniel Lujan

Asst. Editor:

Diane Abeita

Published By:

Valencia Express

September 2024

Isleta Pueblo News

Page 7

PUBLIC WORKS DEPARTMENT

ENVIRONMENTAL PROTECTION AGENCY

CHANGES LEAD RULE

On October 16, 2024, the revised requirements for

the Lead and Copper rule go into effect. One major

requirement is taking a community wide inventory

of lead service lines. Public Works has been out and

about in the community working on this inventory

BUT we need your help.

There are gaps in the data. Even with the use of records

provided by Indian Health Services (IHS), Google

maps and as-builts, the inventory isn’t complete.

Public Works would appreciate community members

calling in to let us know if your home was constructed

before or after 1990. Prior to 1990, lead may be present

in the fixtures, piping or wiring used to solder pipes.

Even if the homes were constructed in 1990 or later,

they must be included in the inventory and shown to

be lead free.

Below are years to keep in mind:

Possible traces of lead in home builds: 1986 and prior

years

Confirmed use of lead in home builds: 1986-1988

Lead ban: 1988

1988-current: all water related products manufactured

cannot have lead used in the manufacturing process

Research done so far has shown the Pueblo has not

ever utilized lead piping as a service line. The records

show water main lines were constructed of AsbestosClay (AC), PVC or poly. Service lines from the main

to your home shut-off have been polyethylene (PE)

or back in the 1970’s it could have been galvanized

or copper pipe. Depending on how your home was

originally plumbed, the line going from the water

shut-off into the home could be copper, galvanized, pvc

or pex.

The concern is if your galvanized piping was ever

downstream from a lead service line.

Information to call in:

1.

2.

3.

4.

Address

Type of service line installed at your residence

Year of home construction

Number of service lines- one or two

Your help is greatly appreciated. Homes with no

information will be reported as “unknown” to EPA

and at intervals set by EPA, educational materials

regarding lead will be disseminated.

NM Poison Control

We should be cleaning and

disinfecting more often.

It is

important that you do not inject or

ingest these chemicals into your

body. Please remember to keep ALL

chemicals out of children’s reach. If

any cleaning or disinfectant solution

is swallowed or injected, please

contact the NM Poison Control

immediately.

1-800-222-1222

Page 8

Isleta Pueblo News

September 2024

September 2024

Isleta Pueblo News

Page 9

TRUANCY

Greetings,

The first month of school has come and gone and before you know

it, it will be winter break. Make sure you are not only on time

to school in the mornings, but to each of your classes, as some

teachers might not change the status of your attendance and you

will stay marked as absent and those absences do add up. Also,

be sure to turn in all your work on time and completed so that

you can receive a grade.

The Truancy Department was happy to be a part of the annual

National Night Out that was hosted by the Isleta Police

Department at the recreation center. We were happy to see so

many community members that attended this event, participating

and walking away with various small incentives. We were also

invited to participate at the Isleta Elementary School for Open

House. We were so glad to see the returning students and many

new faces. We obtained signed Release of Information forms

from many of our families. Please remember to fill out a Release

of Information (ROI) and be sure to agree to Isleta Elementary

sharing information with the Truancy Department so that we can

provide your child with perfect attendance incentives throughout

the school year, and if any issues arise Truancy will be able to

assist you and your child.

Several Truancy Department staff attended the Innovative

Schools Summit during the month of July which was held in Las

Vegas, Neveda. It is held annually in different states throughout

the year. Multiple conferences included in the summit included:

Helping At-Risk Students, Innovative Teaching Strategies,

School Discipline, Wired Differently Trauma Informed; each

conference included mini conferences related to each of the four

topics. We were not able to attend all conferences, but the ones

that we attended did have a lot of useful information that we

can’t wait to implement. We hope to attend other conferences in

the future so that we can strengthen the services and supports

that we provide to our Pueblo of Isleta families and students

Please remember we are here to support and assist you and your

child to ensure that they gain a successful education. We are here

to show positive encouragement and to cheer on our students as

they achieve their goals at the schools they attend. If you would

like additional information on any of the services we provide,

please do not hesitate to contact our office or drop by our office.

(We are located at the Tribal Complex).

Thank you,

Isleta Truancy Department

Page 10

Isleta Pueblo News

September 2024

September 2024

ST. AUGUSTINE PARISH

IT TAKES A VILLAGE…

Our St. Augustine Parish and community has been

blessed with a new ministry called ITHIRST. This

ministry is an addiction and recovery program

supported by the Archdiocese of Santa Fe. It is an

international ministry of Missionary Servants of the

Most Holy Trinity.

The ministry is designed for clergy, religious, and

laity who desire to accompany the addicted and offer

faith based companionship and support. We have

recently certified 6 individuals from our community

who have been trained, received certification and

are qualified to assist individuals suffering from

addiction and their families.

They are called

Spiritual Companions and are now available to

begin the ministry. Anyone struggling with addiction

and their loved ones are invited to reach out to the

Spiritual Companions at this number 505-750-0226

or by contacting the St. Augustine Parish Office.

Our iTHIRST ministry will offer:

•

Masses for recovery, healing and special

intentions

•

Group meetings utilizing the AA 12-Step

Program with a spiritual component

•

Gatherings for family and friends with

frequent guest speakers

•

Spiritual Companionship on an individual

basis

•

Rosary recitation and Holy Hour

“Addiction isn’t just a physical and psychological

illness; it’s also a spiritual disease that requires

a spiritual remedy.” (Keaton Douglas, Executive

Director of the ITHIRST Initiative)

We must crush the stigma of addiction and embrace

individuals that are struggling to remain sober, we

follow Christ’s teachings….

When one encounters situations that are disturbing

to your peace, this is the place to come! All are

welcome!! iTHIRST was created with the desire to

quench God’s thirst for love. They were among the

last words Jesus spoke from the cross (Jn 19:28).

Yours in Christ,

Spiritual Companions

and

Father Thomas Milton

St. Augustine Parish

Purchased Referred Care

Did you know?

Did you know Isleta Health Center is

your payor of last resort?

Payor of last resort means if you have primary

insurance, Isleta Health Center would be your

secondary insurance. If you have a primary and

secondary insurance, Isleta Health Center would be

your Tertiary insurance. Please list Isleta Health Center

as your last payor.

Did you know you have to call PRC to inform them of

all appointments?

This includes all ER/urgent care visits, any follows

ups, any secondary referrals, telemed appointments,

rescheduled appointments. Not calling in for

appointments will delay payment

Did you know if you receive a bill from a provider, you

have to bring it in to PRC, even if you have a referral?

Some facilities will send a bill to the patient but not Isleta

Health Center. It is best to bring all bills in received by

mail to make sure PRC contacts the facility to bill Isleta.

Isleta Pueblo News

Page 11

Page 12

Isleta Pueblo News

September 2024

PARKS & RECREATION DEPARTMENT

Hello Isleta Pueblo! I hope you are all doing well!

Believe it or not, another month has passed and

here we are in September 2024. This year is just

flying by. Halloween, Thanksgiving, Christmas

and the New Year are all just around the corner,

so keep your eyes open for upcoming holiday

activities and events that are associated with

those holidays.

Quick Department Overview – The

department is doing well and continues to

plug away. The weather is changing a little

and it is getting to be that time when the

Parks Crew starts to prepare our grounds

for the winter months. The Aquatic center

is doing their thing, swim classes are still

available, you can call the center to find

out what swim times are available during

the day. Unfortunately, we recently lost

some lifeguards and we are in the process

of trying to get them replaced. In our sports

section we just finished our men’s and

youth basketball leagues games and we are

getting ready for our youth cross country

meets. Other sports activities will be coming

soon. Our Recreation Section is busy with

our youth after school recreation program.

We currently have 35 plus children enrolled

in this program and all is going well there.

This year we’ve been able to pick up

students like we used to in the past, this

has given us the opportunity to serve more

participants/children in the program this

year so far. Our Fitness sections (Old Rec

and New Rec) are busy and doing well, both

facilities serve quite a few tribal members,

POI employees and Casino employees on a

daily basis and we are hoping to serve even

more in the future. New Rec Fitness is

offering various fitness classes as well, and

we are hoping to expand those classes and

add even more classes in the future. For

more detailed information about any of this

general information, please call the Main

Recreation Center at (505) 554-7232.

FITNESS SECTION - Isleta Recreation

Center would like to thank all of the

participants that exercise and with that,

improving their health. These individuals

that have been consistent with their

workouts and their commitment to their

health goals have been entered into

monthly drawings and many of them

have won some pretty cool health and

wellness related prizes. Come workout on

a consistent basis and enter yourself into

these monthly drawings. Each month,

we (Isleta Recreation) give our 2 monthly

prizes that are fun and exciting and best of

all its something that you can benefit from.

Be on a look out for our information flyers

advertising classes and drawings so that

you can see what is our next give away, but

don’t just come for the drawings, come for

your health and workout. We look forward

to seeing you here. For more information,

please call 505-869-9777.

SPORTS SECTION – This section just

finished up with the Men’s Basketball

League and it really went well. The

tournament was very competitive, everyone

was geared up to make a run at the title.

In the first round in this double elimination

tournament we had Gentlemen vs Evolution

on the top side of the bracket and on the

bottom side we had No Bodies from Laguna

squaring off with Los Crudos from Isleta.

The Gentlemen won and moved on to square

off against defending champs Mudd Doggs

and the No Bodies also won and went on to

play the runners-up from last year’s tourney

the Timberwolves. The Isleta Eagles were

a surprise team this year, they went on

to win 4 games from the loser’s bracket.

This put them in the position to play the

defending champs (Mudd Doggs) from

last year. Their game against the Mudd

Doggs actually went into double overtime,

it took them that long to decide who was

going on to play the Timberwolves in the

Championship game this year. Despite

the heroic efforts from the Isleta Eagles,

unfortunately they came up short and lost a

very good game to the Mudd Doggs. So, the

game helped decide who would be playing

for this year’s championship game and

those teams were the Timberwolves and

Mudd Doggs. The Timberwolves went on

to defeat last year’s defending champs and

they were crowned the champions of the

2024 Men’s Basketball League.

We have also started our youth Cross

Country team and we are still signing

up children, if your child is interested in

joining the team, please call the Rec Center

for more information, you can reach us at

(505) 869-9777. We have practice every

September 2024

Isleta Pueblo News

Page 13

Wednesday and Thursday afternoon from

5:30 pm to 6:30 pm here at the Rec center.

Season (first meet) will be on August 31st

at Zia Pueblo. We are very excited to see

what our kids can accomplish this year.

RECREATION SECTION – Welcome

back to the After School Recreation

Program, students!! We are extremely

excited to have our students back at the

center for our Afterschool program. Right

now, we have over 30 students enrolled in

the program and we still have openings

for more children. We are still accepting

applications but we are extremely limited

in our transportation, but we have plenty

of room for more students, especially if you

are able to bring your child to the program

after school. Transportation is provided

only for

Isleta & Sundance schools,

because our Bosque Farms transportation

is at full capacity at this time and on hold

until further notice. The program provides

services from 3:00pm to 5:30pm every day

and Recreation Staff provides services with

homework help, craft activities, gym play,

swimming, sports activities and much more.

Parents if you are interested in the After

School program, call the Recreation Center

for more information at 505-869-9777.

AQUATIC CENTER SECTION – We

hope Back to School has gone smoothly for

parents and students alike! Isleta Aquatics

is still hiring Lifeguards! If you know

anyone interested in becoming a lifeguard,

please call or visit the POI website for the job

posting! We do provide all training on site

and work with school and extracurricular

Students and Rec. staff making coasters and stepping stones with Plaster of

Paris and designing them with gem stones.

activities’ schedules. We do still have 7:30pm from Monday through Thursday

penings for the fall swim lesson session and 4:30-5:30 on Fridays. We will still have

and are currently taking registration a Saturday Session from 8:30am-11:30am!

forms. Registration forms are available at Morning Lap swim can also be scheduled

the Recreation Center front desk or email through the Aquatics office at 505-869Joshua.roybal@isletapueblo.com and we 9783 and is available from 5:30am-8:30am

can send you over a printable version to M-F. For anyone interested in information

fill out at home. Registration forms can about Lifeguard certification, child or adult

be turned into the Aquatics Office or the swim lessons, groups and other aquatic

Front Desk here at the Recreation Center. programming, please call Josh or Jayna at

Open Swim will be open from 5:30pm until 505-869-9783.

Sports Physicals

By Dr. Ray Kelley

It’s sports physical season!

Summer is flying by, and soon parents

and student athletes will need to complete

their sports physical forms. Please contact

IHC sooner rather than later to set up

your appointment. We are saving a few

appointment slots a week to get these

done for our students, so we encourage

you to take advantage of this and don’t

procrastinate until the last minute!

Sports physicals are an important part

of preventing sports-related injuries and

making sure our student athletes are

able to participate fully in their seasons.

We focus especially on the heart, bones,

joints, and muscles at these visits. For

tween and teen athletes, we also check

in on topics like body image, nutrition, and

emotional and mental health.

If your young ones are not playing sports

this year, we would still love to see them!

An annual check-up is a good idea for

most kids. Not only does it teach them

the habit of taking care of their health,

it also is a good opportunity to check

up on their physical growth curve, their

emotional development, their vision and

hearing, and make sure they are up-todate with their childhood immunizations.

Dr. Sapien, our pediatrician, is here every

other week, and doctors Nelson, Pope,

Kistin, and Kelley are family doctors also

trained in pediatric primary care.

See you soon!

Isleta Pueblo News

Page 14

September 2024

Pueblo of Isleta Public Library

Hello September! For many, September signals the end of summer and the beginning

of autumn. With autumn vibes in the air, it’s time for hoodies, books and football. Let’s

goooo! Of course, we cannot forget the upcoming Feast Days and all the delicious

food. The library’s calendar is filling up fast with programs to fit the season.

News

the front entrance as you drive in on your

A staff meeting will be scheduled sometime right side. It is a small blue wooden box

during the first week of September. We of books. The library has been donating

will be planning upcoming programs for gently used children’s books to add to the

children, teens, and adults. The library library. We hope the community stops by

will remain open during this time so don’t and picks up a book or two for their little

hesitate to come on in and check out any learners!

library material.

Library staff will be going over to Isleta

The library will be closed on Saturday, Elementary School (IES) to help with

August 31st, Monday, September 2nd library services. Currently IES does not

and Wednesday September 4th in have an active librarian so library staff will

observance of Labor Day and Isleta be going over in the afternoons so students

Feast Day. We understand that even can have a set scheduled to include

though we are closed, school is still in library time. During our time there we will

session. With that said, we ask parents/ be going over library etiquette, checking

guardians to please make the necessary in & out material, reading comprehension,

arrangements for after school so students cataloging and organizing the library. We

are not left outside the library. All library are excited to help get IES Library up and

media checked out on August 29th and running once again for students to utilize.

30th will be due on September 5th. We

apologize for any inconvenience this may

cause. Enjoy your Labor Day weekend

and Isleta Feast Day!

We would like to send out a big Thank

You to our Summer Intern Jayden Zuni

for all your help this summer. During her

time at the library Jayden helped with

the Summer Reading Program, Summer

Meal Program, cataloging library material,

and working the front desk. We would like

to wish her the best of luck as she starts

her semester at UNM.

School is back in session which means

students are everywhere. With that said,

the library would like to remind you all to

PLEASE be aware of flashing school zone

lights and obey posted speed limits as we

have students walking, riding bikes, and

so on. The Head Start Story Time will also

be starting soon so that means they will

be walking to the library, so keep a look

out for them as well.

Family Story Time is back after taking a

break during the summer to focus on the

Summer Reading Program. Please join

us every Thursday at 11:00am, no sign

ups required so just come on in. Library

Staff member Abbey will read a story

and engage toddlers and families in an

activity. This program gives parents and

caregivers the opportunity to introduce

reading to their children. If you have any

questions, please give Abbey a call at the

library at 505-869-9808 or by email at

Abbey.Whitaker@isletapueblo.com.

The library and Head Start have

collaborated to start up a “Little Free

Library” located at the Head Start. What is

a Little Free Library you may ask? A Little

Free Library is a free book sharing box

where anyone may take a book or share

a book, and you do not need to share

a book in order to take one. The Head

Start’s Little Free Library is located at

Upcoming

Join us on Wednesday, September

18th from 5:30pm to 7pm as library staff

member Cheyenne brings in the start of

Autumn by teaching participants Wood

Soldering in crafting a wooden pumpkin.

Unleash your inner artist with a wood

burning tool to carve out a design to

add to your fall décor. This program is

for adults 18 and older and open to the

first 8 patrons to sign up. Sign ups begin

September 3rd. For more information,

please contact Cheyenne at 505-8699808 or by email at Cheyenne.Castillo@

isletapueblo.com.

A message from library staff member

Astrid.

To my Dearest Reader,

The Pueblo of Isleta Public Library will be

hosting a book club from September to

Mid-October. Join Astrid for a frightening

experience reading Mexican Gothic. After

we conclude the book club sessions, we

will go to an Escape Room and experience

the mystery of the Blackwell Manor. Dates

for sign up will be announced soon. Don't

hesitate to call for more information.

Sincerely Your Dearest Friend,

Astrid Q.

September 2024

For more information on Astrid’s program

please call 505-869-9808 or email Astrid.

Quintana@isletapueblo.com.

The library will be planning programs for

children, teens and adults in the upcoming

weeks and months. Please keep your

eyes and ears open. We are excited to

share our knowledge with you. You can

always refer back to our library website,

library social media, Isleta Newsletter, and

library flyers throughout the community. All

our programs are open to the community

and public.

Recap

It’s Open House Season and library staff

have been busy attending Open Houses

at the following schools…

•

•

•

•

•

•

•

•

•

•

Los Lunas Middle School

Valencia Middle School

Sundance Elementary

Bosque Farms Elementary

Native American Community

Academy (NACA) High School &

K-8th

Isleta Elementary

School of Dreams (SODA)

Santa Fe Indian School (SFIS)

Valencia High School

Isleta Head Start and Child Care

Library staff drew in different audiences

promoted library services and resources

to students, parents and family members.

We would like to thank those who visited

Students trying out the keyboard

that we just set up in the back of

the general area of the library.

Isleta Pueblo News

our booth, gave suggestions or stopped

by for some library swag. We would also

like to thank the schools for allowing us to

promote our services to everyone.

Intern Jayden Zuni has been busy

adding Accelerated Reader labels to the

Children and Teen Books. The library

has implemented this system to coincide

with Bosque Farms Elementary library

books. The goal being students can still

utilize the Accelerated Reader System to

follow their school’s protocol with reading

comprehension. Accelerated Reader

helps teachers/librarians guide students

to books that are geared towards their

grade or reading level. Students can take

a short quiz after reading a book to check

if they’ve understood it.

On August 14th the library hosted

a Financial Literacy Night featuring

Jeremiah Esson as the presenter. The

event covered a range of financial topics

aimed at assisting attendees in planning

for their future. Topics included retirement

planning, business owner solutions,

infinite banking and creating generational

wealth. We would like to say think you to

everyone who attended.

We’re off to a great start with our After

School Program with students from Isleta,

Sundance and Bosque Farms Elementary.

We currently have 20 students enrolled in

our program, with transportation to the

library after school for Bosque Farms

Page 15

students. Library staff members have been

helping students with homework, reading,

crafts and activities. We already have an

incentive field trip planned for September

and students have been coming in and

earning their points to attend the field trip.

Incentive field trips are a great way to get

students motivated to do their homework

and encourage them to read. If you have

any questions or concerns regarding the

After School Program, please give us a

call and speak with a staff member at

505-869-9808.

The first Learning Outside the Classroom

field trip for the new school year took place

on Monday, August 19th and was led by

library staff member Abbey. This program

was an approach to an “All Learners Day”

that Los Lunas School District conducts

one day a month throughout the school

year. The idea being that students can

make the most of their day and learn

outside the classroom. Library staff

members Abbey and Diane, along with 10

students went to the Petroglyph National

Monument for a morning of hiking at the

Boca Negra Canyon and after enjoyed

lunch at Main Event. We are currently

planning our next field trip to Main Event

Play Academy. For more details, check

out the flyer. If you have any questions or

would like more info about this program,

please feel free to give us a call at 505869-9808.

First Learning Outside the Classroom field trip to The Petroglyph

National Monument!

After School Program students on their daily crafts!

Page 16

Isleta Pueblo News

September 2024

ISLETA POLICE DEPARTMENT NEWSLETTER

SEPTEMBER - 2024

The time is flying by for this year with the youngsters back in school, fall is fast approaching with Halloween around the

corner and followed too quickly by Thanksgiving and Christmas.

The Fifth Annual National Night out was held August 9, 2024 and it appears it was a huge success. Sponsored by by the

Isleta Police Department with the help of the many departments from the Pueblo as well as outside agencies. Donations

were received by not only Pueblo merchants, departments and individuals but outside businesses as well. Many thanks

to:

Public Works, Truancy, Governor’s Office, Lente’s Painting, Census, Isleta Rec Center, IRAC, Housing, the Elderly Center, Pick-ADilly, Isleta Dispatch, C.F. Padilla, LLC, Transportation Department, Treasury, Truancy, Rec Center, IPHA, Social Services, Isleta

Elementary, Prosecutor’s Office, Isleta EMS, Headstart, Realty, B’eeh K’oo-ee Wellness Center, Public Works, DOE, HR, Coalition to

Stop Violence, CHR, and Victim’s Advocates.

Buffalo Wild Wings, Home Depot, Top Golf, Starbucks, Starlight Movie theatres, Friends of Valle de Oro, NM United, Fiesta Tents,

Dions, NM Escape Room, Isotopes, Niagara Water, Gold Streeet Pizza, NM Army National Guard, MADD, Los Lunas High School

Cheer, FBI, BIA Fire, YDI, and POP Warner Cheer.

My apologies if anyone was left off the list, but as you can see there were so many and we are forever grateful for you participation

and donations.

September 2024

Isleta Pueblo News

Page 17

This is truly what NNO

is all about. Building

Community and Law

Enforcement/Public

Safety Partnerships

WELCOME

The department would like to introduce

you to the newest employees who have

joined the family:

Charles D. Eaton -- Code Compliance

Officer - Pueblo of Isleta Police Department

Charles is life long resident of Valencia

County and has 25 years of experience

in County and City Government. He has

worked with Valencia County and the City

of Belen. His work experience has been in

Code Compliance and Fire Safety. In Code

Compliance he has addressed everything

from nuisance complaints to property

management issues. In Fire Codes, he

performed life safety inspections for homes

and businesses in the Community. He

prides himself in serving the community

and protecting the environment, and most

importantly making a difference in the

community and serving the people. He

really looks forward to getting out and

meeting the residents of Isleta Pueblo.

RESIDENCY

As many may be aware, the Isleta Police

Department in conjunction with Census

have been responding to complaints of

residency non-compliance and taking

action. As a reminder, the Residency

requirements are listed in the Law and

Order Code and have been in effect for

quite some time. Just a reminder, prior

for anyone who is a non-tribal member of

the Pueblo of Isleta, an application must be

submitted (application forms at Census).

You must have a sponsor who is enrolled

and that sponsor must reside in the

home. Once submitted, together with the

required application fee, the applicant will

go through a background check and once

completed, the packet is submitted to the

Governor’s Office for review and approval

or denial. Please keep mind, per the Law

and Order Code, until the application is

approved and/or denied, the non-tribal

member cannot reside on the Pueblo.

There is also now a charge of harboring

a non-tribal if the Non Compliance is not

addressed by the party responsible for the

residence.

The new Code Compliance Officer and a

police officer are keeping up with these noncompliant individuals and a list is reviewed

weekly. If you have questions please do not

hesitate to contact the Census Office, Code

Compliance Officer Eaton or Officer Sharon

Mitamura (505-869-3030/IPD Dispatch) as

we are happy to help.

IHSP TRAFFIC DIVISION

The Traffic Division is always conducting

traffic enforcement for the safety of all

who travel on the roadways of the Pueblo

and are conducting special operations

throughout the year. Saturation patrols,

DWI roadblocks, detection of DWIs, seatbelt

enforcement, etc. are a constant focus of

this division as well as patrol officers.

We ask all to ensure you and your

passengers are always in proper restraints,

buckling up the moment you are seated in

your vehicle. Make sure your children are

in appropriate childseat safety seats and

always check your backseat before leaving

your vehicle during inclement weather,

i.e., heat or cold, as the interior of a vehicle

will quickly heat up or quickly cool off

respectively. This advice is also for your

pets as well.

WELLNESS SUMMIT AND

COMMUNITY MEETING

The Police Department was also a

participant at the Wellness Summit and

Community Meeting held on August 24

at the Isleta Resort and Casino. There

was information presented in the three

breakout sessions held regarding Mental

Health Awareness by Behavioral Sciences

Clinician C. Massey and narcotics and their

effects as well a demonstration with K9

Officers L. Lujan and Rollo. Information

was available for dissemination as well.

FENTANYL

Narcotics in the surrounding area and

unfortunately on the Pueblo has been

recognized. One of the more prevalent

narcotics being found is that of fentanyl.

Below is an article published by the Drug

Enforcement Administration:

Top Local Drug Threat

Local DEA officials have identified

illicit fentanyl as the top drug threat in

Albuquerque, New Mexico. Fentanyl is a

potent synthetic opioid drug approved by

( CONTINUED NEXT PAGE )

Page 18

the Food and Drug Administration for use as

an analgesic (pain relief) and anesthetic. It is

approximately 100 times more potent than

morphine and 50 times more potent than

heroin as an analgesic.

Drug Facts

The DEA laboratory has found that, of

the fentanyl-laced fake prescription pills

analyzed in 2023, seven out of ten pills now

contain a potentially lethal dose of at least 2

mg. This is an increase from DEA’s previous

announcement in 2022 that six out of ten

fentanyl-laced fake prescription pills were

found to contain a potentially lethal dose.

•

Criminal drug networks are massproducing fake pills and falsely marketing

them as legitimate prescription pills to

deceive the American public

•

Fake pills are easy to purchase,

widely available, often contain fentanyl or

methamphetamine, and can be deadly

•

Fake prescription pills are easily

accessible and often sold on social media

and e-commerce platforms, making them

available to anyone with a smartphone,

including minors

•

Many fake pills are made to look

like prescription opioid such as oxycodone

(Oxycontin®, Percocet®), hydrocodone

(Vicodin®), and alprazolam (Xanax®); or

stimulants like amphetamines (Adderall®)

NOTE:

In 2023, it was noted that “tranc” was

identified in the Albuquerque area and is

fentanyl with Xylazine

Xylazine is a medicine given to animals

to sedate them for surgery or relieve pain.

It is a strong synthetic alpha2-adrenergic

agonist, synthesized in 1962 as an analgesic,

hypnotic, and anesthetic. Xylazine is not

approved for human use, but is now being

used as a recreational drug. It is often mixed

with heroin, fentanyl and other opioids

that are taken illegally. Xylazine can cause

drowsiness, amnesia, and can also slow

breathing, heart rate, and blood pressure to

dangerously low levels.

One of the alarming factors regarding

this narcotic which has surfaced is

the fact that Narcan (Naloxone) is not

effective or may use multiple doses

and is becoming a great concern as

there have been fatalities regarding

this. Please be aware of “street”

fentanyl or “fake” fentanyl.

Isleta Pueblo News

September 2024

September 2024

Isleta Pueblo News

Page 19

Anyone. Any struggle. Any time.

This is the English version of the Tiwa article published

in the August POI Newsletter and the IHC Summer

Newsletter

Did you know that NM Native American youth who

have a trusted adult in their lives are less likely to

experience mental health distress and engage in risky

behaviors? Unfortunately, for many people when

they experience mental health distress, they do not

feel that they have the support and care they need,

making the bad situation worse, sometimes resulting

in suicide or overdose. Studies have shown that in

New Mexico, suicide is the leading cause of death for

Native Americans.

However, there is hope.

Regardless of someone’s current situation or who

they are, they deserve to feel heard and met with

compassion and understanding. The National Suicide

and Crisis Line- more frequently referred to as 988- is

that support for a lot of New Mexicans and could be a

good support for you or someone you know. The lifeline

is not only free, confidential and available 24/7, but it

also provides the support from trained professionals

who are equipped to handle a variety of situations

quickly. 988

Some reasons to call, text or chat with 988 include:

●

●

●

●

●

●

Worried about safety

Hard time managing strong emotions

Relationship troubles

Worried about substance use

Need information about local community

services

Or any other reason, you need to talk to

someone

For more information about 988: visit 988nm.org.

Page 20

Isleta Pueblo News

September 2024

September- Newborn Screening

Awareness Month

Newborn Screening Awareness month aims to

educate families about newborn screening. About four

million babies each year are screened for disorders

that are present at birth. Newborn screening is free.

There are programs in all 50 states and territories

ensuring children in the US are tested within 24-48

hours of being born. This screening has identified

over 12,000 infants annually with a condition that, if

left untreated, would cause disability or death. The

test only takes a few drops of blood from a heel prick

and a simple hearing test. Newborn screening saves

lives and prevents future health complications.

WIC NEWS

Thank you everyone who participated in our World

Breastfeeding and WIC Turns 50 event!

Thank you to all our donors! New Mexico

Breastfeeding Task Force, Isleta Tribal Council,

Isleta Resort and Casino, the Isleta Recreation

Center, Albuquerque Isotopes, NM United, Dion’s,

Albertsons, Whole Foods, Sam’s Club, Jerry’s

Market, Zuni Smoke Shop and Randy’s DJ Services!

Congratulations to all of our raffle winners!

Nick Trujillo

Amberrose Papuyo

Patricia Charlie

Audrena Abeita

Andrea Pesina

Rachel Chapen

Keanna Lucero

Travis Jaramillo

Autumn Abeita

Joanne Sanchez

Judy Abeita

FeliciaPapuyo

Michelle Chavez

Jerri Peace

Monica Saucedo

Marla Zuni

Mayra Perez

Cheyenne Montoya

SEPTEMBER 2nd

September 2024

Isleta Pueblo News

Page 21

ASK THE CLINIC

Isleta Health Center Provider,

Dr. Ray Kelley, 505-869-3200

It is normal to have low blood pressure?

Great question! Blood pressure measurements have

two numbers – the top number is the systolic pressure,

and the bottom number is the diastolic pressure. The

goal for most people is about 120 to 130 systolic, and

about 80 to 90 diastolic. Many people have a blood

pressure lower than 120/80, and they are perfectly

healthy. For example, children’s blood pressures

are supposed to be lower than adults’ -- their goal

blood pressures change with age. Adults with great

cardiovascular fitness – like runners and swimmers –

often have blood pressures below 120/80. It is common

that people with certain health conditions such as

cirrhosis have lower yet normal blood pressures.

When is low blood pressure a problem?

Most of the time, low blood pressure is not a problem

(see above). Lower blood pressure measurements are

only a problem when the person is having symptoms.

Someone could have a blood pressure of 110/70

and feel 100% normal – that’s no problem! However,

someone else could have a blood pressure of 110/70

and feel dizzy, light-headed, or sick – that’s a problem!

Sometimes low blood pressure is related to being

sick, being dehydrated, or certain medications. If you

or a loved one have symptoms alongside low blood

pressure, get checked by a health professional.

Ask the Clinic, is a new section in the POI

Newsletter, where you can ask the Clinic

ANY Question and we will answer it in

future newsletters. If you have a Question

for the Isleta Health Center, please contact

Stephanie Barela at 505-869-4479 or email

her at Stephanie.Barela@islclinic.net.

Page 22

Isleta Pueblo News

September 2024

Health Beat: Cholesterol Education Month (September)

~CHECK, CHANGE, CONTROL

Stephanie Barela, Health Educator

Phone: 505-869-4479 |

stephanie.barela@islclinic.net

www.heart.org www.cdc.org

September is National Cholesterol Education Month. Cholesterol

is a waxy substance that your body actually needs to build cells,

however, too much of it can be a problem. It comes from either

your liver or from the food we eat that comes from animals, for

example, meat, poultry and full-fat dairy products. These foods

are high in saturated and trans fats and cause your liver to make

more cholesterol than it otherwise would. Another thing that

can trigger your liver to make more cholesterol is some tropical

oils, such as palm oil, palm kernel oil and coconut oil.

Cholesterol circulates in the blood and when the amount of

cholesterol increases, so does your health risk. That is why it

is important to have your cholesterol checked. Make it a point

this month to learn your numbers and know your risk. The next

time you are at the clinic, ask your provider if you need to get

a lipid profile, which is a measurement of your cholesterol and

triglyceride levels. According to the heart association, all adults

over the age of 20 should have a lipid profile.

There are two types of cholesterol: LDL cholesterol, which is bad,

and HDL, which is good. Too much of the bad kind, or not enough

of the good kind, increases the risk that cholesterol will slowly

build up in the inner walls of the arteries that feed the heart

and brain. When it builds up, it can form a thick, hard deposit

on the inside of the arteries, which can narrow the arteries and

make them less flexible (atherosclerosis). If a blood clot forms

and blocks one of these narrowed arteries, it can cause a heart

attack or stroke.

When it comes to cholesterol, this is what to remember: check,

change and control. That is:

•

•

•

Check your cholesterol levels. It’s key to know your

numbers.

Change your diet and lifestyle to help improve your

levels.

Control your cholesterol, with help from your doctor if

needed

Here is what your cholesterol numbers mean:

Total cholesterol(mg/dL):

Less than 200 is desirable

200-239 is borderline high: Depending on your other risk

factors, you may be at a higher risk for heart disease.

talk to your provider about your overall risk for heart disease.

240 or higher is high: You are at risk for clogged arteries

and a heart attack. See your doctor to determine your

risk for heart disease.

LDL Cholesterol is BAD cholesterol. KEEP IT LOW!!

•

Less than 100 is optimal or

ideal.

•

100-129 is near optimal/

above ideal

•

130-159 is borderline high

•

160-189 is high

•

190 and above is very high

HDL Cholesterol is GOOD cholesterol. THE HIGHER THE

BETTER!

•

Keep it above 40

Triglycerides are another type of fat in the blood. They come

from fat that you eat and are made in the body. Here is what

your triglyceride numbers mean:

Less than 150 is NORMAL.

150-199 is borderline-high. You may be at an increased risk

for heart disease. To lower your level, aim for a healthy

weight and be more physically active.

200-499 is high. Weight control and physical activity are very

important to lower your level. Watch out for other heart

disease risk factors such as overweight and obesity,

diabetes, low HDL and high blood pressure.

Over 500 is VERY HIGH!! ALERT! See your doctor immediately.

This level requires attention to prevent severe problems with

your pancreas.

Contraception

There are many different types of contraception (also known as

“birth control”). These include pills, shots, implants, intrauterine

devices (IUDs), among others. These are all available from the

doctors at Isleta Health Center. Certain types of contraception such

the implant/Nexplanon and the IUD work for a long time and can

be removed by a provider whenever the patient desires. These are

called, “Long Acting Reversible Contraception” or “LARCs.” There

have been some updates regarding how long these are effective, so

they may last longer than you think!

Copper IUD/Paragard:

•

•

•

Effective for 12 years

When it was placed, you may have been told it was effective

for 10 years

If you have an IUD and you still have a regular period, you

likely have the copper/Paragard IUD

Hormonal IUD/Mirena:

•

•

•

•

Effective for 8 years

When it was placed, you may have been told it was effective

for 5-7 years

If you have an IUD and you do not have a period, or you

just have light spotting, you likely have the hormonal IUD

Bleeding pattern may change over time, but it is still

effective at preventing pregnancy

Implant/Nexplanon:

•

•

Effective for 5 years

When it was placed, you may have been told it was effective

for 3 years

•

If you have a small rod in your arm, you likely have the

implant/Nexplanon

•

Bleeding pattern may change over time, but it is still effective

at preventing pregnancy

None of these methods affect long-term fertility. Make an

appointment with one of the Isleta Health Center doctors if you

have any questions about birth control.

September 2024

Isleta Pueblo News

Page 23

Community Engagement Initiative:

Opioid Settlement Funds

for Isleta Pueblo

The Pueblo of Isleta is embarking on an important

journey to address the impact of the opioid crisis

within our community. As recipients of opioid

settlement funds, we have a unique opportunity

to channel these resources into initiatives that can

bring lasting, positive change. To ensure that these

funds are used effectively and align with the needs

of the community, we will be hosting several town

hall meetings to gather your input.

The opioid crisis has affected communities across

the nation, including Isleta Pueblo. Families have

been torn apart, lives lost, and the ripple effects

have touched all aspects of our society. The

settlement funds are a form of restitution, offering

a chance to heal, rebuild, treat, and prevent.

Our primary goal with these town hall meetings

is to engage directly with community members.

We believe that the best solutions come from

those who are most affected. By listening to your

voices, we can develop initiatives that are not only

effective, but community-driven.

During the town hall meetings, we will cover several

key topics, including:

1. Prevention Programs: How can we prevent

opioid misuse in our community, especially

among our youth?

2. Treatment and Recovery Services: What types

of treatment and recovery services are most

needed, and how can we make them accessible

to everyone?

3. Support for Affected Families: What support

systems can we establish for families dealing

with the fallout of opioid addiction?

4. Education and Awareness: How can we raise

awareness about the dangers of opioids and

promote healthy, drug-free lifestyles?

We invite all community members to attend these

town hall meetings. Your insights, experiences,

and suggestions are invaluable. Together, we

can create a comprehensive plan that reflects our

collective wisdom and meets the unique needs of

our community.

Meeting Schedule

The town hall meetings will be held at various

locations across Isleta Pueblo to ensure

accessibility for all residents. Specific dates,

times, and venues will be announced through the

Pueblo of Isleta Newsletter, social media, and the

electronic message board outside of IHC.

Let's work together to make our community a model

of resilience and recovery. Your voice can help

transform these settlement funds into a powerful

force for positive change. Join us at the town hall

meetings and be part of this crucial conversation.

Please contact Nancy Gonzales, IHC Public

Health Director at (505) 869-4462 or nancy.

gonzales@islclinic.net with any questions or for

more information about the town hall meetings.

Page 24

Isleta Pueblo News

September 2024

ISLETA ELDER CENTER - ADULT DAY CARE SERVICES

It is common knowledge that elder care is one

of the fastest-growing areas in the healthcare

industry, with a demand that skyrocketed

in the last five years. And the country will

continue to see an increasing demand for

elder care services in the coming years due

to a rapidly growing elder population.

Adult day care centers provide participants

with services such as meals, basic health

care and health assessments, assistance with

appointments and activities of daily living

(ADL). Adult day care centers also provide

for transportation, care coordination as well

as therapeutic, recreational and socialization

activities. In a nutshell, it is a comfortable

place where the elders can spend the day

participating in health-seeking activities,

while their caregivers are at work, running

errands, or enjoying a well-deserved rest and

relaxation. It is a compassionate and safe

environment for the elders and is considered

as a home away from home for some elders.

Father’s Day Celebration at

Isleta Lakes

A glance at what elders may enjoy while attending

the Isleta Adult Day Care Services.

A game of concentration/

coordination

Come join us at Adult Day Services and

see what the FUN is all about!

Nutrition Education/Bingo with medical interns and Karen Roop, Dietitian

Fire Safety by Isleta Fire Department

We are very thankful for our Summer

Interns; they made our days bright

and full of cheer!

Songbird Music by Sayushane

Mother’s Day Fundraiser, Bouquet

Cookies

Educational Sessions by Nevaeh

September 2024

Isleta Pueblo News

Page 25

Ceramic painting at the Santa Ana

Senior Center

Fresh pickings from

ADS garden

For more information contact:

Outreach Manager Isleta Elder

Center (505) 869-9770

A fun day at the ABQ Zoo

Page 26

Isleta Pueblo News

September 2024

Health Beat:

TEMPERATURES AND FOOD SAFETY

Karen Roop, Isleta Diabetes Programs Dietitian

Phone: 505-869-4093

Improper handling of food affects millions of people

each year. According to the Centers for Disease

Control (CDC), 48 million Americans become sick

from food every single year.¹ This is about 14% of

the population or 1 in 7 people. Of those 48 million

people, “128,000 are hospitalized and 3,000 die.”¹

One way to help reduce foodborne illnesses is to be

mindful of the role temperature plays in food safety.

How long can I keep food out of the fridge?

According to the CDC, foods can be kept out of

the fridge at room temperature for two hours.²

This refers to the temperature of the environment,

not the food itself. Once a food is cooked or taken

out of the fridge or freezer, you have two hours to

consume it before putting it back into the fridge or

freezer. If the food is kept at a temperature over

90°F, you only have one hour before putting it into

the fridge or freezer.² If you want to let the food

cool down before putting it in the fridge to prevent

dropping the fridge’s temperature, that is okay.

However, keep in mind you will need to put the food

away within the 1- to 2-hour time limit.

Why is it important to not leave foods at room

temperature or high temperatures for too long?

Bacteria grow rapidly in a temperature range called

the “Danger Zone.”³ The danger zone is between

40°F and 140°F.³ This is why refrigerators are kept

at 40°F or below. Hot-holding foods at a temperature

above 140°F are also okay for feasts or gatherings.

To learn more about food safety and to take your food

handlers training online through IHS, you can reach

the course at https://www.ihs.gov/foodhandler/.

Visit these websites for more information:

¹.

².

³.

https://www.cdc.gov/foodsafety/foodbornegerms.html

https://www.cdc.gov/foodsafety/ten-

dangerous-mistakes.html

https://www.fsis.usda.gov/food-safety/safefood-handling-and-preparation/food-safetybasics/danger-zone-40f-140f

What to do if you find a used needle

outdoors

People, especially children, must

never touch or pick up needles found

on the ground. Discarded needles can

be harmful. Needles or hypodermic

needles are also known as syringes or

sharps.

Cleaning up discarded needles must be done carefully

to protect human health and the environment.

If a used or discarded needle is found on Isleta tribal

land, please call Isleta Police Dispatch at 869-3030 to

report the location so that a qualified tribal employee

can safely collect and dispose of the discarded needle.

Individuals who use needles for insulin shots or

other medical uses are expected to dispose of their

used needles appropriately in sharps containers that

individuals have to purchase themselves.

An exclamation mark within a triangular border is the

international symbol for caution. Always exercise caution

if you see a discarded needle.

If you have any questions about this article, please

contact Environment Department at 869-7565.

September 2024

Isleta Pueblo News

Page 27

Ask the Clinic, is a new section in the

POI Newsletter, where you can ask

the Clinic ANY Question and we will

answer it in future newsletters. If you

have a Question for the Isleta Health

Center, please contact Stephanie

Barela at 505-869-4479, email her

at Stephanie.Barela@islclinic.net, or

scan the QR Code below.

Page 28

Isleta Pueblo News

September 2024