more ground fundraising efforts for breakings st. …gilariver.org/grin/grin_sept2012_final.pdf ·...
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GILA RIVER INDIAN NEWSSEPTEMBER 2012 WWW.GILARIVER.ORG/NEWS VOL 15, NO. 9
Gila R
iver Indian New
sP.O
. Box 459
Sacaton, AZ 85147
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SERVING ALL SEVEN DISTRICTS OF THE GILA RIVER INDIAN COMMUNITY
Inside The GRIN
Culture & History........Page 6
Health & Wellness.....Page 7
Education............Page 16-17
Announcements &Notices......................Page 21
Action Sheets.....Page 18-19
Continued on Page 5
Youth & Elder........Page 9
Letters & Opinions.....Page 3
Continued on Page 20
NFL Season Preview 2012 Page 14
Continued on Page 8
‘George Webb Village’ dedicated to authorGround breaking ceremony celebrates newest housing project in District 4
By Mikhail SundustGila River Indian News
Mikhail Sundust/GRIN
Ground breaking for the George Webb Village in District 4 on Aug. 17, 2012.
Plans to construct a new housing development have fi nally come together for the people of District 4. One cool, gray-cloud-covered morning earlier this month, the people of D4 gathered on a vacant plot of desert land off State Route 587 to celebrate. With
the desert at his back, Melvin Webb Sr. stood up and thanked the community for honoring his father’s memory by naming the new D4 housing development “George Webb Village.”
“Our family’s greatest appreciation goes out to all of those who have made this project possible,” said Webb Sr., George Webb’s youngest
and last surviving son. The George Webb Village
groundbreaking ceremony was held on Friday, Aug. 17. A number of Webb family members attended the event. Construction will begin this month on the west side of State Route 587 near Goodyear Road.
The District 4 Service Center arranged the ceremony
celebrating the community’s newest housing project and paying homage to its namesake.
According to Wilfred Brown, Director of the GRIC Tribal Projects Development / Building Safety Division (TPD), the anticipated completion date of the neighborhood is September 2013.
Robert Johnson of the Huhukam Heritage Center – and George Webb’s grandson – delivered a speech entitled “Remembering George Webb.” He noted that, “George Webb Village is located not too far from where George and Hattie Webb lived their golden years and shared their happy lives with their family.”
George Webb was born in Gila Crossing in 1892. His Akimel O’odham name was Buzzing Feather. He was a rancher, a farmer, a Gila River Indian Community Associate Judge and one of the fi rst Gila River Tribal Council Representatives.
Today he is best known for his book “A Pima Remembers,” which is in its tenth printing with the University of Arizona Press in Tucson and has reached people across the United States. In the book, Webb refl ects
Tribal com-munities rally around Sioux elderBy Roberto A. JacksonGila River Indian News
Tribal communities around the country are condemning the media’s coverage of Vern Traversie, a tribal elder from the Cheyenne River Sioux Tribe. Traversie, who is a Cheyenne River Sioux tribal member, is suing the Rapid City Regional Hospital (RCRH) for violations of his patient rights and human rights that occurred during his stay at the hospital one year ago.
Before being released from the hospital on Sept. 9, 2011, a hospital staff member told him to have his family look at his abdomen and photograph it as soon as he returned home.
At home on Sept. 10 a visiting nurse, family members and friends alerted the Lakota elder that he had many questionable wounds on his abdomen. These markings resembled the Ku Klux Klan symbol of “KKK.”
On July 16, 2012 Traversie fi led a civil suit in U.S. District Court of South Dakota against the hospital. Federal investigations by the FBI and the United States Department of Health and Human
Cooking Channel brings show to Indian CountryHost Eden Grinshpan learns Chumuth recipe for TV audiences
Photo courtesy of Cooking Channel
From left: Cindy Washington, Cher Thomas and Eden Grin-shpan on episode of “Eden Eats” on Cooking Channel.
By Mikhail SundustGila River Indian News
Cher Thomas is a former Miss Gila River (2004), former Miss Indian ASU (2010) and a member of Yelp.com’s Elite Squad four years running. That last accolade earned her a spot in an episode of “Eden Eats”, a TV show that visited the Salt River Pima Maricopa Indian Community and Gila River Indian Community earlier this year to sample authentic O’odham cuisine.
Eden Grinshpan, who has a Grande Diplôme from Le Cordon Bleu in London, England, is the host of “Eden Eats” – a new show on the Cooking Channel. “Eden Eats” is a traveling show that explores the hidden culinary hot spots of American cities in search of eclectic cuisine from around the globe proving on a weekly
MORE GROUND BREAKINGS PAGE 10
FUNDRAISING EFFORTS FOR ST. ANTHONY’S MISSION p. 6
A message from Miss Gila River 2012-2013 Raeging Storm Miles Page 9
basis that, “you don’t need a passport to taste the world.”
Recently, the show has visited Austin, Texas; Nashville, Tennessee; and Tampa, Florida. In her “Phoenix, Arizona” episode, Eden and her crew made their way around the sunny desert city meeting local chefs and sampling dishes from far away lands such as India, Poland, Bosnia, Lebanon and Cambodia.
Eden ended her Phoenix world tour with her new friend Cher Thomas back in “Native” America – on the Salt River and Gila River Indian Reservations.
Thomas says that when the show producers called her for the fi rst time, she was surprised and thought it might be a prank. They asked her to be their “Cultural Liaison” for Native American communities in the Arizona
valley. Show scouts found her through Yelp.com, the popular social networking and restaurant review website. Thomas attained high status on the website for her honest, insightful, well-written and often humorous
reviews of local eateries. “On Indian reservations,
food stands are very common and offer homemade delicacies that cannot be found in the city,” wrote
GRIN Kids................Page 11
September 2012Page 2 Gila River Indian News
Robert Keller, Tribal Treasurer Linda Andrews, Community
Council Secretary
Material published in the Gila River Indian News may not be reproduced in any form
without consent from the Gila River Indian Community
LETTERS POLICY: GRIN welcomes letters and columns from readers. Let-ters should be limited to 200 words and be in good taste. Material that could be libelous or slanderous is not acceptable. All letters or columns should be signed with the writer’s true name, address and telephone number in the event GRIN may need to contact the writer. Only the name of the writer will be printed in the paper. Letters or columns without a complete signature, name, address or phone number will not be acceptable to GRIN for publication. GRIN reserves the right to edit submitted materials for grammar, spelling and content.
Write to: Editor, GRINP.O. Box 459
Sacaton, AZ 85147Published letters or columns do not nec-
essarily refl ect the opinion of theEditor or
Gila River Indian Community.
Zuzette [email protected]
CPAO Acting Director(520)562-9851
Roberto A. [email protected]
Managing Editor(520)562-9719
Gina [email protected]
GRIN Secretary II(520)562-9715
www.gilariver.org/index.php/news
September 2012 Page 3
Gila River Indian CommunityP.O. Box 459
Sacaton, AZ 85147(520)562-9715
www.gilariver.org/grin
GovernorGregory Mendoza
Gila River Indian News
LETTERS & OPINIONS
Matthew Marley Lewis
Mikhail [email protected]
Community Newsperson(520)562-9717
District #1Arzie Hogg
Cynthia Antone
District #2Jewel Whitman
District #3Dale G. EnosMyron Schurz
District #4Barney B. Enos, Jr.
Jennifer AllisonChristopher Mendoza
Monica Antone
District #5Brenda RobertsonFranklin Pablo, Sr.Annette J. Stewart
Janice Stewart
District #6Anthony Villareal, Sr.
Albert PabloTerrance B. Evans
District #7Martha Miller
Community Council Representatives
Lt. GovernorStephen Roe Lewis
In Loving Memory
The GRIN encourages com-ments and suggestions about content that warrants correction or clarifi cation. To report an er-ror call (520)562-9719 or email [email protected]
CORRECTIONS
This year’s 5th Annual Senior Summer Bash Chair Volleyball and Games was a huge, huge success. The event was held at the Sacaton Wellness Center on Friday, August 3. We had 32 Senior teams from all different tribes and nations within the state of Arizona, competing this year. I would like to take this time to express my sincere gratitude to the following individuals and groups who worked extra hard to make this event the best it could be for our seniors. Thank you to Amber Childs, Fera Wapaha, Ali Walkingbadger, Gila River Tribal Rec. & Wellness Center Staff, Talia Antone, Myrna Allen, Ina Lyons, Sylvia Enos, GR Communication & Public Affairs Offi ce, Dist. 2, 4, 6, Elderly Coordinators, District 2, 3, 4, 5, 6 Recreation Departments, Phillip Morris, Vinnie Thomas, Kane Marrietta, and The WIA Group. The seniors’ lunch was graciously donated by Dist. 3 councilmen – Dale Enos & Myron Schurz, Dist. 7 councilwoman Martha Miller, Rodney Jackson and Thobi Landscapers, Dist. 2, 3, 4, 5, 6 Elderly Kitchens, Salt River Seniors, Gila River Casino and Picnic Specialties. Thanks to Joellen Kinnamon for making this year’s gourd trophies. It was a pleasure to work along side of you and complete this goal. I am already looking forward to next year’s event and I hope that you will be willing to step up again… Positive teamwork! Handshakes and Smiles for a job well done,
Tammy HistiaDistrict 3 Elderly Coordinator
Elderly Coordinator thankful for teamwork at Senior Summer Bash
March 27,1990- August 21, 2011
It’s hard to believe that a year has passed since you left our lives and went to be with our great Creator. Each and every day we think about you and miss you even more and we love you so much. It’s hard to believe that you are gone and always expect you to walk in through the front door and wanting something to eat. Your sons Sidney and Ian miss you the most. They always talk about you and say that you live in their hearts.
That’s a comfort for them. They are so young but understand that you have left their lives. You would be so proud with both of them going to school and doing very well.
Ian couldn’t wait to go to school and this year was his time to start and they both take you to school with them every day. We had so many friends and relatives help the family during our loss that I would like to thank them at this time. Uncle Harold of Gospel Road, Courtney Moyah, Ike and Poppy, Larry Porter Jr., Tracey Thompson and Jasmine Ortega, Father Ed (you were a great inspiration to me) Sylvester and Michelle Osife-Chelle thank you for all your help in coming and being with us and cooking meals for us.
I also want to especially thank the Gila River Tribal Court and the Probation Department for your generous help with the donations, it was a great help. I thank each and everyone of you.
I know I failed to mention every one but you were a great help and thank you very much. God bless each and every one of you.
Again thank you and God bless, Karen, Alfred, Christina Moyah, Sidney and Ian Lewis, brothers, sisters, cousins, Reyes Family, Rodriguez Family.
In Loving Memory
Marvin Blackwater Jr 06/01/63 – 08/12/12 In loving memory of our son, brother,and uncle Marvin Blackwater, Jr. We would like to extend our sincere thank you to all who assisted us during our time of grief and sorrow as we prepared for Marvin’s final journey home. Thank you to Alan and the District 1 staff and crew for all your assistance. Thank you Holy Family church and congregation. To our relatives and friends, thank you for everything you did, to everyone helped with preparing the food for the grave diggers, the wake service and to those who stayed all night after the wake preparing the meal; the pallbearers and D-‐1 crew for your help with digging the grave; Paul Jr and Mark for preparing the cross and script; Kevin and Pancho for gathering the shugoi (greasewood); Rodney and crew for cleanup of the yard; thank you friends & family from San Carlos who came to the wake; all those who brought food throughout the preparation; everyone who helped clean up after the feeding and finally for all who expressed words of encouragement and condolence to our families, we thank you. Marvin is deeply missed but will forever be in our hearts. We ask our Creator to continue to bless those who are grieving the loss of their loved ones.
So long as we live, they too shall live and love for they are a part of us, as we remember them ~ Gates of Prayer
Carmelita & Jasper Marrietta & Bryce Connie & Arzie Hogg and family Mary Cruz & family
Marvin Blackwater, Jr.
06/01/63 – 08/12/12
In loving memory of our son, brother, and uncle Marvin Blackwater, Jr. We would like to extend our sincere thank you to all who assisted us during our time of grief and sorrow as we prepared for Marvin’s fi nal journey home. Thank you to Alan and the District 1 staff and crew for all your assistance. Thank you Holy Family Church and congregation. To our relatives and friends, thank you for everything you did, to everyone who helped with preparing the food for the grave diggers, the wake service and to
those who stayed all night after the wake preparing the meal; the pallbearers and D-1 crew for your help with digging the grave; Paul Jr and Mark for preparing the cross and script; Kevin and Pancho for gathering the shugoi (greasewood); Rodney and crew for cleanup of the yard; thank you friends & family from San Carlos who came to the wake; all those who brought food throughout the preparation; everyone who helped clean up after the feeding and fi nally for all who expressed words of encouragement and condolence to our families, we thank you. Marvin is deeply missed but will forever be in our hearts. We ask our Creator to continue to bless those who are grieving the loss of their loved ones.
So long as we live, they too shall live and love for they are a part of us, as we remember them ~ Gates of Prayer
Carmelita & Jasper Marrietta & Bryce
Connie & Arzie Hogg and family
Mary Cruz & family
Happy 3rd Birthday MiaJust want to wish you a very Happy Birthday. We love you very much! Love Dad and Mom
Dear Sir,During the candidate forum
held in Casa Grande on July 26, a question was asked of the three candidates running for the District 3 County Supervisor seat. That question was of particular interest to me as a member and former Governor of the Gila River Indian Community. The question asked of the candidates was what they thought of the Ak-Chin Indian Community’s proposal to convert some land owned by the tribe into trust status.
Candidate Steve Miller’s answer was shocking and left me wondering if he knows anything at all about his Native American neighbors. To say he opposes the conversion of tribally owned land to trust is no small thing but then to continue on and say that he thinks the county ought to take tribal reservation land and arbitrarily remove it from trust status is quite another. The principles of tribal sovereignty were established in the Treaty of Guadalupe Hidalgo (1848) and the Gadsden Purchase (1853)
– and have been reinforced with a century and a half of litigation and treaties with the Native American Tribes of this country.
My people are neighbors and residents of this county; we go to your schools, buy products and services in your businesses, work in Pinal County businesses and employ Pinal County residents. Mr. Miller’s answer is not the response of a good neighbor. Supervisor David Snider’s answer to that same question was thoughtful and based on his eight years of work and partnership with the Gila River and Ak-Chin Indian Communities as well as the Tohono O’odham Nation.
I urge the voters of Pinal County and District 3 to re-elect Supervisor David Snider to the Board of Supervisors. He listens and, in my book, experience does count.
Respectfully,Thomas White, Former
Governor, Gila River Indian Community
Letter from former GRIC Gov. Thomas White
The Juan Family would like to thank the following D3 assistants for burial of our brother Richard Juan on 8/18/12: District 3 Service Center man power, the District 2 community, where our brother Richard grew up in Olberg, Gila River Police Department.
Richard took a big step into the unknown as others do. It was just yesterday I was talking to him. I think of the football we played at the old hospital. We will miss him but I know that he is close to our hearts with many memories he left with us. It was good to see everyone together and all the help from the community.
Thank you much,Juan Family
Brother, Uncle, Father, Friend
In Loving MemoryJuan Slaton
12/28/67 - 8/13/12
A correction on the “Right to Vote” event held on July 14, 2012- The Gila River Indian Community Voter Registration Board was awarded the Frank Harrison and Harry Austin Citi-zenship award sponsored by the Inter-Tribal Council of Arizona along with the Ft. McDowell Indian Community, not NCAI. Also, the 1928 Porter lawsuit was also fi led with Rudolph Johnson.
Joshua [email protected]
Community Newsperson(520)562-9715
Annie [email protected]
Community Newsperson (WIA)(520)562-9715
Page 4 Gila River Indian News September 2012
Your Per Capita Corner
www.mygilariver.com/percapita
2012 Per Capita Schedule
Quarterly Deadline * Payment Date September 17 October 31 (Wed) December 17 January 31, 2013 (Thurs)
* Next Quarterly deadline: for per capita applications, forms, and
updates (always 45 days prior to Payment Date).
There are many checks and payment earnings statements that are returned to the PCO due to outdated addresses. So please visit or call the Enrollment Department as soon as possible to update your address.
Reminder Every time you change your address, remember to complete
a new W-9 with the PCO. Always keep your check stub/statements for verifications.
PCO does not do income verification.
Taxes Please take special note that all per capita payments are considered taxable income, even in cases when payment is garnished. For tribal payments of $600 or more, there will be a 1099 IRS tax form sent to you by January 31st of the following year. Please consult with your personal tax advisor regarding the tax implications of per capita payments. PER CAPITA TRUST ACCOUNTS – FOR YOUR CHILD The per capita trust for your child is accessible for health, education, and/or welfare funds. Only two (2) early disbursements per beneficiary are allowed per year.
WHAT CAN I SPEND IT ON? Early distributions are limited to the uses identified below. In addition to clothing (Welfare category):
Education: tutors, private tuition (includes cost of books & tuition), academic summer school/camp, enrichment programs (academic-based; includes school supplies and activities), and computer purchases (for academic use only.) Health: orthodontics, certified counseling services, glasses, dental or medical emergencies, and special care-givers, facilities, and/or equipment. There is no annual limit on health requests. However, the amounts approved will be counted towards the annual dollar maximum allowed.
WHAT ARE THE DOLLAR LIMITS? (Per calendar year) Age Group Annual Maximum Clothing Limit *
1-6 $200 total $100 7-13 $350 total $200
14-21 $500 total $300
* Approved clothing funds are deducted from the annual maximum. To ensure you get your check or letter from Providence, make sure the GRIC Enrollment Dept. has your child’s current address.
PROVIDENCE VISIT Providence First Trust Company will have a representative at the PCO on Friday, September 28 and Monday, October 1, 2012 from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. to answer questions and accept trust distribution request forms.
Providence First Trust Company (800) 350-0208 or (480) 282-8812.
Per Capita Office P.O. Box 338 Sacaton, AZ 85147 (520) 562-5222 or (866) 416-2618
(PCO = Per Capita Office)
Page 5GILA RIVER INDIAN NEWSSeptember 2012
Mikhail SundustCommunity Newsperson
Joshua JovanellyCommunity Newsperson
Annie GutierrezCommunity NewspersonCollege Intern
Hello Gila River, I am Mikhail Sundust.
I was raised in Casa Grande, Arizona by my mother, Barbara Sundust, and father, Michael Sundust. My family hails from Districts 6 and 7. My paternal grandparents are the late Eugene Sundust (he was Pii Posh) and Rose Sundust (née Shelde . . . she was Akimel O’odham). My maternal grandparents are Emil (deceased) and Eleanor Nelson (still kicking).
Outside of work, I enjoy reading, watching movies, running and learning new things. I especially enjoy spending time with my family; my brother and his wife, Noah and Meagan Sundust; and my baby niece Anna. She’s so cute!
In May 2007, I graduated from Casa Grande Union High School. My college career began that August.
On December 17, 2011, I got my B.A. in Linguistics
from the University of Arizona with minors in Spanish and American Indian Studies. I am eternally grateful to the Gila River Indian Community and the Student Services Department for fi nancially supporting me throughout my undergraduate
years via the higher education grant program. In the future, I hope to take advantage of the Higher Education Program again to attain my Master’s Degree.
I started out with the GRIN on April 2 of this year as an intern with the Workforce Investment Act program. During this time, Roberto Jackson and the Communication & Public Affairs Offi ce staff mentored me in journalism, photography and public relations.
On August 13, the Community hired me full time as a Community Newsperson. I love writing and taking photos for the Gila River Indian News. Every day is a learning experience. I enjoy meeting new people and hearing their stories from around the reservation. I look forward to being a positive infl uence in the Community during my time with the GRIN.
I hope to see you around,Mikhail Sundust
My name is Josh Jovanelly and I am the newest member of the Gila River Indian News staff. I recently moved to Chandler, Ariz., from California, where I had lived since my birth in 1989. I grew up in a tight-knit community called Eagle Rock, a small town on the northeast side of Los Angeles.
I am the fi fth child of Mark and Ronda Jovanelly. My three brothers, two sisters and I ensured that we grew up in a lively household always full of activity. I benefi tted (and continue to benefi t) from having older siblings who served as positive role models when I was growing up. I also gained valuable experience being an older brother myself.
The Jovanelly family traces its roots back to Italy. In the early 1900s, my great-grandparents emigrated through Ellis Island, New York, where the traditional Italian spelling of their last name — Giovannelli — was Americanized (likely because of a misinformed immigration offi cial). Eventually both my mother and father’s families ended up in Los Angeles.
I accepted a scholarship to the University of Southern California in 2007 where I attended the Annenberg School of Journalism and began my training as a journalist. I worked for four years on the Daily Trojan, the school paper. During this time, I did freelance work for the Los Angeles Daily News and contributed to the USC
Hola! My name is Andra Gutierrez. I like to be called Annie because it is not diffi cult to pronounce, but if you can roll your r’s then give Andra a try.
I am Akimel O’odham, Tohono O’odham and Chicana. I am the daughter of Valenda Catha and the late Roberto Gutierrez Sr. My grandparents are Donald Catha and Claudette Lewis. My mother’s family is from Vah-Ki, District 5 and my father’s is from San Fernando, Calif. I grew up in both places my entire life and to this day I still live in both. I have three wonderful sisters named Desiree, Nicole and Rosalinda and two brothers; Roberto Jr. and the late Kelvin Burnette.
I attended many schools throughout my childhood and Sacaton Middle School happens to be the middle school I was promoted from. I graduated from Sherman Indian High School in 2008. At Sherman, I was involved with both the Tohono O’odham and Pima Club. I was also an honor student there and I had the privilege of living in the honor dorms which is pretty cool because only a few are selected. I’m currently starting my third year at Central Arizona College. I am very determined to fi nish my CIS 120 course
sports magazine SC Playbook.Through the wealth of
knowledge and resources at USC as well as the experience of working in the journalism business, I graduated from USC ready for the next challenge in my life. Through my lifelong friend Stephen Culver — a Gila River Community Member and current EMT for Gila River EMS — I heard about the opening at this paper.
The kindness of Stephen’s family and the friendliness of my colleagues at GRIN have already made me feel welcome in my new home. I look forward to working in this organization, to meeting the challenges that lie ahead and to serving the Community as best I can.
by the end of this year so I can receive my A.A. in Liberal Arts. This year, I made it on the Dean’s List at the college so Yay!
Alongside the GRIN, I write for CAC’s newspaper, The Cactus, which I enjoy very much. After CAC, I plan to transfer to a local university. There is so much I want to do in my life but there is very little time to explore everything. I enjoy writing, reading, learning and interacting with people, so if you see me out and about say “Hola!”
New Staff Introductions for the GRIN Our staff is growing. Here is the latest information on who is working for the Gila River Indian News.
In order to better serve the Gila River Indian Community (GRIC), the Gila River Indian News (GRIN) recently added three key individuals to our staff. They are excited to work for our organization and to cover GRIC stories for all of our valued readers.
Mikhail Sundust was our intern since May and was hired
as Community Person in August. Along with Mr. Sundust,
we added Joshua Jovanelly, a journalism grad from the University of Southern California.
Joining this fi ne pair is Annie Gutierrez, our intern from Central Arizona College. She is a full time student and a contributor to her school paper
as well as the GRIN. Managing Editor Roberto
A. Jackson and Secretary II Gina Goodman are very enthusiastic to have these multi-talented individuals as part of the staff.
Roberto, a community member whose family is from District 6, has been Managing Editor since March 2012. He’s been with the GRIN since
January 2009. Gina, Tohono O’odham, is
our longest tenured employee. She has worked for the GRIN since April 2008.
As always we encourage our readers to pour forth their suggestions to the GRIN. Your input is valued with openness and distinction.
- GRIN Staff
Roberto A. JacksonManaging Editor
Gina GoodmanSecretary II
Thomas in a recent Yelp post. “In the Salt River Reservation, just east of the city of Scottsdale, is The Stand, which was named by the community and frequent guests.”
In the show, Thomas and Eden head over to The Stand on the corner of “school and school” (Indian School Road and Alma School Road) on the Salt River Indian Reservation. There, they met owner Cindy Washington, who Thomas has known for years.
Washington showed Eden how she prepares her famous red chili stew with beef and chilies but maintained a fair deal of mystery over her secret spice recipe. While the stew cooked, they move on to chumuth. Thomas taught Eden how to
mix, toss and cook the traditional O’odham bread – which looks like a tortilla – on Washington’s tractor-blade-turned-chumuth-cooker and included a little history lesson for viewers. O’odham people have always been farmers, cultivating a variety of crops including cotton, squash, corn and grains; chumuth made from ground wheat is a traditional part of the O’odham diet.
Eden wound down her day of travel and eating at Thomas’s house in the Gila River Indian Community’s District 6. Thomas and the “Co-op Village Pima Basket Dancers” invited Eden to participate in a traditional O’odham springtime dance (the show was shot in March).
Thomas, who is now a student at ASU, has been dancing with this group since she was a teenager. As the sun set over the Estrella Mountains, Eden thanked Thomas for her hospitality and continued on her journey across America.
“Eden Eats: Phoenix” aired for the fi rst time on Friday, Aug. 31 at 10:00pm eastern. It is scheduled to re-air on Oct. 19 and 21. For more information about the show and for recipes from the exotic homelands of the cooks Eden visited, go to www.cookingchanneltv.com. You can read Cher Thomas’s restaurant reviews at www.cherished.yelp.com.
From Page 1Gila River featured on Cooking Channel
Page 6 September 2012
A'agaSomething to be told or talked about
SPECIAL SERIES BY BILLY ALLENCULTURE & HISTORY
Huhugam Heritage Center
Massacre on the Gila
Solutions on page 20
Imagine running, jumping, swinging a club in fi ghting for your survival in late summer. Without water! On September 1, 1857, such a battle took place on O’otham jeved. Inter-tribal confl icts between Yuman-speaking Colorado River bands led some to move upstream along the Gila River. Eventually these bands settled in two Piipash (Maricopa) villages at the west-end of the Gila River Indian Community. The move didn’t end the confl icts. A combined force of Quechan, Cocopah, Mojave and Yavapai came to battle the Piipash.
When the Piipash were attacked, riders and runners spread the alarm to Casa Blanca and eastward. Akimel O’otham warriors responded. As the warriors approached on horseback, it looked as if a jegos had been unleashed. The fi nal battleground was between Pima Butte (“M” Mountain) and the Gila River. Antonio Azul was the young headman of the Akimel O’otham, but stepped aside to allow one more experienced to command.
Keeping the enemy away from the water was a tactical maneuver. The Yuman warriors were blocked in on three sides by mounted forces. The north, east and south fl oodplain had horsemen led by experienced leaders: Candela, Cuchillo del Mundo and Juan Chevereah. Hawk, the leader of the Quechan, was not going to retreat westward. Numbers differ on how many warriors took part, ranging from 400 to 2000.
The San Diego and San Antonio mail line had a contract to deliver mail between these two cities. Maricopa Wells, just south of “M” Mountain was the stagecoach relay station. After breakfast, Isaiah Woods, who was in charge of the stageline, saw smoke to the northeast. He didn’t know the Quechan force attacked the Piipash. Soon an old Piipash appeared on horseback out of the mesquite thicket coming towards the stagecoach station. The Piipash asked the whitemen for help, but none was given. It would remain all-native confl ict. When Mr. Woods arrived in San Diego seven days later, the battle was noted in the September
12 edition of the San Diego Herald. There are also native accounts of
this battle. Tcokut Na:k or Owl’s Ear was a “keeper of the stick” visited by Frank Russell in 1901-02. Tcokut Na:k’s account was recorded only 44 years after the battle and tells of only one Quechan survivor.
The Piipash also kept calendar sticks. In 1929-30, Kutox told his version to Leslie Spicer. Kutox was nine years old in 1857, and remembered the battle. “The Yuma came to Sacate to fi ght,” began Kutox. Sacate was a Maricopa village. Kutox’s version had no survivors.
In 1921, Joe Homer, Quechan, was interviewed by Edward W. Gifford. By Homer’s account, the Piipash focused their fury upon the Quechan, letting other bands escape. Homer said the Piipash allowed seven survivors to return and tell of this battle.
A Mohave version recorded by Alfred Kroeber in 1925 states survivors marched eight days and 160 miles through the desert in retreat to the Colorado River.
Michael Burns was a 70-year old Yavapai interviewed by Mr. Gifford in 1929-30. An incident interpreted as a bad omen limited the participation of the Yavapai. The few who did participate made it back to their villages.
A Piipash elder said because of the bodies strewn in the area, the villagers did not want to be close to this ground. The villages were relocated.
Historical records show at least 21 battles between the Quechan and Piipash from 1832 to 1857. This last battle led to the “Treaty of Peace” of 1863. The treaty was bought to light in 1940 when the daughter of Juan Jose, a Piipash sub-leader, shared it with others. Today, the 5 Tribes Peace Treaty of 1863 is a celebration of life and harmony. If you visit this area, please be respectful of the sacred ground.
Most of the information in this article is taken from “Massacre on the Gila. It was co-authored by Clifton B. Kroeber and Bernard Fontana.
Vashai Gakithag MashathThis month marks the beginning of fall with the occurrence of the Autumn Equinox.
We watch as the sun slowly starts to travel toward the south with each sunset. This month the land starts to dry out from the heavy summer rains and most summer crops are ready to be picked. The heavy summer rains this year have produced a second cropping of vihog (mesquite bean pods), called a tho:mdag. This month we celebrate Chikpantham Thash (Labor Day) and Ve:s na:nko ma:s O’otham Hemachkam ha-Thash (American Indian Day). This month’s word match features some of the reptiles that can be seen in our community on any given day. Community members should practice caution when working in their yards or taking walks. The heavy rains this summer hav produced tall brush and grass that can provide good cover for many types of snakes. We encourage you to practice the O’otham names of the reptiles and use them every day.
Solutions on page 20
Since the tragic destruction of our church through arson, our parishioners have been working very hard donating their time, supplies and income in efforts to raise enough funds to rebuild the church. The parishioners of St. Anthony’s Mission in Sacaton, Ariz. would like to ask the community to actively participate in the fundraising efforts taking place every month in which to rebuild the old historical church.
A few years ago, St. Anthony’s Mission had to take a loan out to build a multipurpose building to hold church service in. Although to many people it looks like a warehouse and is hard to identify as a church, to the people who attend church services there it is a building to share God’s word through many weddings, religious classes, meetings, funerals, baptisms, and many fundraising events. This building brought joy to the parishioners after the fi re, so it is with great
pride and gratitude to the parishioners to have paid this loan off and now move forward in the next phase of building a church.
In August, we had a steak fry and bingo that I hope you all attended and enjoyed. It was a great turnout and we thank
the community and surrounding communities who attended for their support. We would like to inform the community of the following fundraising events:
September 30th: On Saturday at 11:30am – a Breakfast Burrito sale.
October 20th: On Saturday at 11:00am – our Fundraising Bazaar. This is St. Anthony’s biggest annual event, which includes many arts & crafts vendors, food, children’s games, dancing and music entertainment, raffl es, and much more.
November: A Thanksgiving basket worth over $100 will be raffl ed off for the purchase of a $1.00 ticket.
December: The church will be selling luminaires, 6 for $5.00.
January: Bingo and 50/50 cash raffl e.
So, as you can see, St. Anthony’s is very busy in moving forward in their goal of a new church. With many prayers and assistance from everyone, we feel this can be accomplished. This is an open invitation to all that everyone is always welcome to attend our fundraising events. We look forward to seeing you there. If you wish to support our mission, we always accept monetary donations, services and prayers from anyone who wishes to help in the rebuilding of St. Anthony’s Indian Mission.
Please write us or send donations to:
St. Anthony’s ChurchP.O. Box 783Sacaton, AZ 85147Thank you and God bless
Fundraising efforts for St. Anthony’s MissionBy Regina Antone-SmithFund Raising Coordinator
Page 7September 2012 HEALTH & WELLNESS
Health Resources Department Updates
As we move forward through the season, everyone is encouraged to continue to take preventative measures to protect themselves and their loved ones from the West Nile virus (WNV), a disease/ infection transmitted to humans through the bite of WNV infected mosquitoes. WNV affects humans, horses, birds, and other animals. The symptoms of WNV may include: fever, headache, swollen glands, muscle aches, fatigue and sometimes rash, stiff neck, muscle weakness or paralysis, seizures, confusion and/or disorientation.
Here is a list of preventative steps that you can easily take:
• Eliminate standing water where mosquitoes can breed.
• Check for items outside your home such as: cans, bottles, jars, buckets, old tires, boats, kid pools, ceramic pots or any items which can collect rain water and
dispose of or turn these items upside down.
• Remove unused old tires from your property.
• Change water in fl ower vases, birdbaths, planters and animal watering pans at least twice a week.
• Repair leaky pipes and outside faucets, and move air conditioner drain hoses frequently.
• Wear lightweight clothing that covers the arms and legs such as: shoes & socks, long pants and a long-sleeved shirt.
• Minimize outside activity at dusk and dawn, which are peak hours for mosquito activity.
• Use a mosquito repellent with DEET, according to instructions, when outdoors.
There is no treatment or
vaccine specifi c for human WNV infection. Please contact your health care provider immediately if you experience a high grade fever, stiff neck, muscle weakness
or paralysis, seizures, confusion and/or disorientation.
Since the weather has warmed up in April, the Gila River Indian Community Environmental Health Services (EHS) in coordination with the Community Health Education program has been implementing prevention activities throughout GRIC which includes the following:
• Information on West Nile Virus and a Mosquito Borne Illnesses brochure was included in the packet handed out in the Door-to-Door campaign by the Community Health Education program (March – June).
• Community Health Education program hand outs on West Nile Virus & Mosquito Borne Illnesses were distributed throughout the Districts – health information booths, health fairs, health conferences and monthly community events.
• Notifi cations to the
District Services Centers of scheduled fogging activities.
• 2,528 postcards on WNV were sent to Community members in the Bapchule and Sacaton areas.
• Posters have been posted at various public places throughout the Community and the GRIC Intranet.
During routine adult mosquito surveillance GRIC’s Environmental Health Services will identify populations of mosquitoes which exceed a threshold and pose an elevated health risk to the Community; the EHS - Vector-borne Disease Program will apply pesticide in the form of a fi ne mist or fog during evening or early morning hours. Fogging can only be conducted with calm winds and no rain. There are approximately 200 locations throughout GRIC which are routinely monitored (example: fl ood basins, sewage lagoons, etc.).
Please keep in mind that introducing any chemical into the environment poses some level of risk, whether to the land, water or to the residences within the Community. Therefore, the risk of contracting WNV must outweigh the risk of utilizing pesticides.
This year for the state of Arizona a total of 12 WNV human cases have been reported. No WNV cases have been reported in GRIC this current year. However, the EHS Laboratory has identifi ed WNV positive mosquitoes within the Community.
REMEMBER: please take every precautionary measure to prevent WNV.
If you have any questions or if you need to report an area which may need to be investigated, please contact the GRIC Environmental Health Services program @ (520)562-5100.
Protecting Yourself and Loved Ones from Mosquito Bite(s) within the Gila River Indian Community
To Restaurant/Retail Food Owners and Operators:GRIC Ordinance GR-02-12: Food Code
On July 18, the Gila River Indian Community (GRIC) adopted the 2009 FDA Model Food Code, Annex, and Supplement. This Food Code replaces the previously adopted 1962 FDA Food Code and its subsequent amendments.
There are signifi cant updates to the standards within this Code, however many of these standards have been previously introduced to your establishment over the previous fi ve years during the course of Environmental Health Service’s (EHS) routine compliance inspection of your food establishment.
Some notable changes which have been made:
• Defi nitions: Many new defi nitions are included within the Food
Code with additional defi nitions specifi c to the GRIC detailed in
the Ordinance.• Facility: Many updates
have been made to plumbing and structure requirements, mobile food establishments, and others.
• Temperatures: Holding and cooking temperatures have been updated.
• Cooking processes: Standards for various cooking processes have been included / updated.
• Foodborne Illnesses: Details on foodborne illnesses and their risk factors are included.
• Allergens: Details on food allergens are included.
• Due process: Included within the Code and Annex are standards and guidelines for permitting, hold orders, inspections, reporting and appeals.
• Training requirements: Included in the 2009 FDA Food Code and Supplement are training requirements
for the Person-in-charge (PIC).• Home-based Food Vendors
(HBFV): Specifi c to the GRIC and detailed in the Ordinance, properly designated HBFVs are exempt from these adopted standards and must provide public notice stating such.
Our offi ce understands that signifi cant time will be necessary to fully implement this new Code. Our offi ce is committed to working hand in hand with your establishment to assure that all compliance and training concerns are met and the risk of foodborne illness is minimized. Our Sanitarians will also be working closely with your designated PIC during their regularly scheduled compliance inspections.
Over the course of the next few months, EHS will be sending additional information to your establishment. These mailings are important as they will include a digital copy of the Ordinance and adopted standards, permitting applications, guidelines and educational outreach on various topics included in the new Code.
In addition, notices, forms and outreach will be available on the GRIC Government Informational webpage for Tribal employees, the GRIC Newspaper, and on MyGilaRiver.com. We ask that you check back regularly as these internet sites will be routinely updated.
An online version of the 2009 FDA Food Code, Annex, and Supplement can also be found at:
http://www.fda.gov/Food/FoodSafety/RetailFoodProtection/FoodCode/FoodCode2009/
We look forward to working with all of you during this time of transition.
By Laverne R. DallasHealth Resources Department Gila River Indian Community
To Restaurant/Retail Food To Restaurant/Retail Food Owners and Operators:Owners and Operators:GRIC Ordinance GR-02-12: Food CodeGRIC Ordinance GR-02-12: Food Code
On July 18, the Gila River Indian On July 18, the Gila River Indian Community (GRIC) adopted the 2009 Community (GRIC) adopted the 2009 FDA Model Food Code, Annex, and FDA Model Food Code, Annex, and Supplement. This Food Code replaces Supplement. This Food Code replaces the previously adopted 1962 FDA Food the previously adopted 1962 FDA Food Code and its subsequent amendments.Code and its subsequent amendments.
There are signifi cant updates to the There are signifi cant updates to the standards within this Code, however many standards within this Code, however many of these standards have been previously of these standards have been previously introduced to your establishment over introduced to your establishment over the previous fi ve years during the course the previous fi ve years during the course of Environmental Health Service’s of Environmental Health Service’s (EHS) routine compliance inspection of (EHS) routine compliance inspection of your food establishment.your food establishment.
Some notable changes which have Some notable changes which have been made:been made:
• Defi nitions: Many new defi nitions • Defi nitions: Many new defi nitions are included within the Foodare included within the Food
Code with additional defi nitions Code with additional defi nitions specifi c to the GRIC detailed inspecifi c to the GRIC detailed in
the Ordinance.the Ordinance.• Facility: Many updates • Facility: Many updates
have been made to plumbing and have been made to plumbing and structure requirements, mobile food structure requirements, mobile food establishments, and others.establishments, and others.
• Temperatures: Holding and • Temperatures: Holding and cooking temperatures have been updated.cooking temperatures have been updated.
• Cooking processes: Standards for • Cooking processes: Standards for various cooking processes have been various cooking processes have been included / updated.included / updated.
• Foodborne Illnesses: Details on • Foodborne Illnesses: Details on foodborne illnesses and their risk factors foodborne illnesses and their risk factors are included.are included.
• Allergens: Details on food • Allergens: Details on food allergens are included.allergens are included.
• Due process: Included within • Due process: Included within the Code and Annex are standards and the Code and Annex are standards and guidelines for permitting, hold orders, guidelines for permitting, hold orders, inspections, reporting and appeals.inspections, reporting and appeals.
• Training requirements: Included • Training requirements: Included in the 2009 FDA Food Code and in the 2009 FDA Food Code and Supplement are training requirements Supplement are training requirements
for the Person-in-charge (PIC).for the Person-in-charge (PIC).• Home-based Food Vendors • Home-based Food Vendors
(HBFV): Specifi c to the GRIC and (HBFV): Specifi c to the GRIC and detailed in the Ordinance, properly detailed in the Ordinance, properly designated HBFVs are exempt from designated HBFVs are exempt from these adopted standards and must these adopted standards and must provide public notice stating such.provide public notice stating such.
Our offi ce understands that Our offi ce understands that signifi cant time will be necessary to signifi cant time will be necessary to fully implement this new Code. Our fully implement this new Code. Our offi ce is committed to working hand in offi ce is committed to working hand in hand with your establishment to assure hand with your establishment to assure that all compliance and training concerns that all compliance and training concerns are met and the risk of foodborne illness are met and the risk of foodborne illness is minimized. Our Sanitarians will also is minimized. Our Sanitarians will also be working closely with your designated be working closely with your designated PIC during their regularly scheduled PIC during their regularly scheduled compliance inspections.compliance inspections.
Over the course of the next few Over the course of the next few months, EHS will be sending additional months, EHS will be sending additional information to your establishment. These information to your establishment. These mailings are important as they will mailings are important as they will include a digital copy of the Ordinance include a digital copy of the Ordinance and adopted standards, permitting and adopted standards, permitting applications, guidelines and educational applications, guidelines and educational outreach on various topics included in outreach on various topics included in the new Code.the new Code.
In addition, notices, forms and In addition, notices, forms and outreach will be available on the GRIC outreach will be available on the GRIC Government Informational webpage for Government Informational webpage for Tribal employees, the GRIC Newspaper, Tribal employees, the GRIC Newspaper, and on MyGilaRiver.com. We ask and on MyGilaRiver.com. We ask that you check back regularly as these that you check back regularly as these internet sites will be routinely updated.internet sites will be routinely updated.
An online version of the 2009 FDA An online version of the 2009 FDA Food Code, Annex, and Supplement can Food Code, Annex, and Supplement can also be found at: also be found at:
http://www.fda.gov/Food/http://www.fda.gov/Food/http://www.fda.gov/Food/http://www.fda.gov/Food/FoodSafety/RetailFoodProtection/FoodSafety/RetailFoodProtection/FoodSafety/RetailFoodProtection/FoodSafety/RetailFoodProtection/FoodCode/FoodCode2009/FoodCode/FoodCode2009/
We look forward to working with all We look forward to working with all of you during this time of transition.of you during this time of transition.
By Laverne R. DallasBy Laverne R. DallasHealth Resources Department Health Resources Department Gila River Indian CommunityGila River Indian Community
By Laverne R. DallasHealth Resources Department Gila River Indian Community
September 2012Page 8 Gila River Indian News
on life on the reservation and traditional O’odham culture.
Webb’s legacy will carry on in George Webb Village, which will serve up to 81 families. TPD is working with George Cairo Engineering, Inc., contractor Pimmex/Blucor, GRIC Public Works, GRIC Land Use, Planning & Zoning, and a number of other tribal entities to complete the tribally funded infrastructure project.
At the ground breaking, Lt. Gov. Stephen Roe Lewis read some passages aloud from “A Pima Remembers.” He commented on how the book has influenced him personally as well
as the role it played in bringing O’odham tribal history, culture and character to the forefront of American Indian Literature.
Pamela Pasquale thanked Tribal Council, Tribal Projects Development and everyone at the ceremony. “This has been a long time coming,” she said. Talks on the project began in 2003.
Melissa Sotomayor, a representative of the University of Arizona Press, drove all the way from Tucson to show the Press’s respect for George Webb and his family. His was one of the first books ever published by the U of A Press in 1959.
Johnson closed his speech by
commenting on his grandfather’s character and how it shaped their family and influenced our society: “He valued formal education as a way out of poverty and ignorance and also understood that we should remain rooted in our Himdag.”
As the clouds opened up and the sun began to shine, members of the Webb family and those involved in the project donned construction hard hats and took up their shovels. All at once and each smiling with pride, they dug their spades into the earth and broke ground on the new George Webb Village.
From Page 1George Webb Village
Governor’s Employee of the Month for June & July
From left: Gov. Gregory Mendoza, Juan Martinez, Dave Thomas and Lt. Gov. Stephen Roe Lewis. Mikhail Sundust/GRIN
Juan Martinez, our June 2012 Governor’s Employee of the Month, has served GRIC with genuine passion and compassion for over 16 years within Tribal Social Services. As a Youth Services Coordinator with RPY, he currently serves Community children and youth who have experienced much trauma, grief and losses in their young lives.
He comes to us from his father’s plantation in Puerto Rico where, as a young boy, he learned early on to work very hard. It is because of his rock-steady beginnings that he brings the gifts of hard work, integrity, enthusiasm, joy, commitment, passion and humor to us all, the Gila River Indian Community.
Through his younger days, he was an avid and outstanding baseball player. After college, he worked in behavior health until he was hired by TSS as a CPS worker in 1996. He was promoted to Child Sexual Abuse Liaison, again to CPS Supervisor and then to the Youth Services Coordinator position with RPY.
He shows his loyalty to GRIC by being early to work, and not leaving until his two-page, daily to-do list, is complete. He says goodnight by asking his supervisor, “Do you need me to do anything else before I leave?” In return, his supervisor announces “If every employee had (his) work ethic and passion, imagine what it’d be like, awesome!”
He is a hard worker but balances his work life with family life. He loves his fiancé Gloriana and takes his family to see relatives in Puerto Rico every year. In the case of his daughter, Brianna, he made sure to teach her to drive in the Phoenix traffic so that she could attend college. And for his daughter Jessica, he makes sure school needs are met.
This nominee has served our community well and displays the qualities of someone we believe to be an Employee of the Month. His staff holds him in high esteem and his cheerful self is missed when he is gone. We should all be proud to have an employee who treats individuals and families with the dignity and respect they deserve. He is a dedicated worker who quietly goes about his work to ensure children are in a safe and caring environment.
It is with great pride that we have selected Juan Martinez to be the Governor’s Employee of the Month for June 2012.
Dave Thomas began his journey green. As Gilbert Sabori recalls, “he was greener then the wonder of a green pasture”. With no sense of what was expected of him as a laborer, he learned and persevered, and did everything in the skilled trades that one needs to know.
“Every time there is a new project, he’s all business,” his crew recalls, “making sure that it gets done quickly.” He’s worked on pretty much all areas of the construction trade, his specialty being in carpentry and electrical work.
“He is all about safety first!” His co-worker called out. “And he makes sure that his job site and crew members stay safe while out on the field. He speaks up when he notices unsafe work practices.”
In his special way of communicating, he does everything he can to please the Elders and the members of the D6 Community. “Because of his deep respect for the elders, they call him first when putting in their work-orders.”
And because he is encouraged and supported by his family, wife Andrea and beautiful daughter Brianna, he is always eager to learn and try new ways of improving his skills.
He’s extremely hard-working and dedicated to his job and he is always at work and can be depended on. This is why his journey with D-6 has brought him from a laborer back in 2004 to a Custodial Facilities Maintenance Worker in 2006 to his current positions as a Building Maintenance Worker.
Without the understanding and excellent work habits of his phenomenal crew, being our top “go-to” guy and a wonderful role model to those around him would not have been possible.
For all these reasons and those too numerous to mention, it gives us, The Gila River Indian Community, great pleasure in announcing the July Governors Employee of the Month: David Thomas!
Juan MartinezGovernor’s Employee of Month, June 2012 Governor’s Employee of Month, July 2012
Dave Thomas
As we celebrate your anniversary on Saturday, September 8, 2012 at La Familia, I will be happy to see your family and friends from Gila River and T. O Nation join us once again. This day will also be celebrated with your nephew Flaviano’s surprise 7th birthday. Flavi’s laughter sounds so much like you Possum. We still accidently call him your name.
Every year your favorite chicken scratch bands still play for your memorial: Native Creed, P-Dub, and Group Familia.
The Memorial necklaces were once again prepared by Kristy Jose, Jaylene and Delaiah
Woods from north Komelik.A huge thank you to our
family and friends for what they will provide for this memorial: food, punch, water, etc. Big thanks to aunties Van, Dodi, Kitt, and cousins Nita and Alex Martinez. Also, brother Mykey for their monetary donations.
Next year, 2013, will be our final memorial. I say to everyone from my family: “Possum’s memory would not be kept alive” if it was not for your presence at these memorials. Thank you all and God Bless. We miss and love you Possum. Rest in peace . . . Love Bernella, Karen, and Mykey Lewis.
3rd Year Anniversary for Bernell F. Lewis Jr. “Possum”
4/18/91- 9/08/09
Brenalee Sakiestewa named 2nd Attendant at Miss Native American USA Pageant
Anthony “Thosh” Collins
Brenalee Sakiestewa, District 6, was named 2nd Attendant at the Miss Native American USA Pageant on Aug. 25 at the Tempe Center for the Arts. Sakiestewa was also named Miss Congeniality. “It was really something special,” she said.
According to Sakestewa all the contestants were very supportive of each other. “We were just happy to be there and we felt really connected at this one moment in our lives.”
Shaylin Shabi, Navajo, is Miss Native American USA 2012-2013 and Sage Honga, Hualapai/Navajo is 1st Attendant.
-GRIN Staff
September 2012 Page 9YOUTH & ELDER
Andra Gutierrez/GRIN
Andra Gutierrez/GRIN
Fun and games for elders at Summer Bash
Elders show good sportsmanship during the 5th Annual Chair Volleyball & Games.
Tyler Owens, right, addresses tribal leadership during the Four Tribes meeting.
On Aug. 3, the elders stretched their limbs and showed their game face at the 5th Annual Summer Bash Senior Chair Volleyball & Games.
Two hundred fifty pumped up seniors in matching team shirts filled the District 3 Wellness Center for a day of fun and games. This year’s bash is the first to include games and the first to invite local Arizona tribes to participate in the event. Elders competed in two types of games: the adaptive and non-adaptive. The adaptive games accommodate seniors with physical limitations.
They played archery, Frisbee, beanbag toss and newspaper crunch.
Although the weather was boiling hot, it didn’t stop the elders from having a good time. “I played archery and the beanbag toss but I had to come inside, it was too hot,” said Donna Lewis, District 5.
Thirty-two teams competed in a two-bracket, single-elimination chair volleyball tournament. Elders from the sidelines cheered and laughed as they watched their opponents play. “Some of them really get into it and some elders are competitive,” said
Tammy Histia, District 3, elder coordinator.Some of the older gentlemen balanced
on the back legs of their chairs reaching the beach ball midair. Some of the women hung on the edge of their seats, hands in the air ready to make a serve. “It was fun. I had fun,” said Lewis. Lewis plays for the District 5 Judum volleyball team. “Judum and the other District 5 team, the Eagles, practice all the time,” he added.
The winning teams of the tournament received a trophy gourd with a volleyball painted in the center. In the individual adaptive games, winners won Olympic-style medals, donated by District 3 Recreation.
The District 5 Eagles won first place in the chair volleyball tournament, followed by Stowa A’an White Feathers from Tohono O’odham, and Wa:k San Xavier.
The 5th Annual Summer Bash for the elders wouldn’t be possible if it weren’t for the numerous donations from councilmen, tribal recreation, Rodney Jackson and Thobi Construction and Picnic Specialties, who donated 100 plus sandwiches to the event. In Histia’s words, the event “was a great success.”
By Annie GutierrezGila River Indian News
GRIC hosts ‘Four Tribes’ at Wild Horse Pass Hotel & Casino
By Annie GutierrezGila River Indian News
The Gila River Indian Community (GRIC), Salt River Pima-Maricopa Indian Community (SRPMIC), the Tohono O’odham Nation and the Ak-Chin Indian Community gathered at the Wild Horse Pass Hotel and Casino for a regular quarterly meeting.
The Four Tribes meeting, hosted by Gila River, gathers tribal leaders, elders
and youth council members from Tohono O’odham, Ak-Chin, SRPMIC, and GRIC to discuss cultural issues, new projects and updates from the four youth councils.
After the meeting was called to order, Brenda Robertson opened the meeting with a prayer. Governor Gregory Mendoza and the Akimel O’odham/Pee Posh Youth Council (AOPPYC) sang the morning star song.
Each tribe informed leaders about their communities. Ak-Chin is in the process
of renovating some of its buildings, the runway at the Ak-Chin Regional Airport, and the Ak-Chin Southern Dunes. Salt River also plans to renovate and build houses for different uses in Lehi D2.
New projects are in progress with each tribe. Ak-Chin plans to build a new movie theatre adjacent to the Ak-Chin Harris Casino, and reopen the Ak-Chin Community Vekol Market. Mendoza updated the tribes on the new premium outlet mall by the Sheraton Resort and the new Vee Quiva Hotel and Casino. Both projects are to be completed in the spring and summer of 2013. The projects will bring many construction and full/part time employment to the community. “We are always trying to find ways to diversify our funding other than gaming,” said Mendoza.
Tohono O’odham Chairman Ned Norris gave a brief update of the Rosemont Copper project and asked where the tribes stand in the process. Salt River passed resolution to Rosemont Copper. Ak-chin and Gila River are still in the process of passing resolution.
On the agenda, former mayor Paul Johnson and Joe Yuhas stood before the four tribes and discussed the ballot initiative. The initiative is for voters of different political affiliations to choose their candidate in a non-partisan election. The two men asked the tribes for support of their effort and financial assistance. Mendoza
responded saying “the concept sounds good … for Gila River I will definitely take this to our process to generate comments from our council to make sure we’ve done our analysis on this. I believe all the other tribes will probably do the same as well.”
Last on the agenda, the four youth councils updated the tribes on their projects since the last meeting. They each shared their experience at the 2012 Unity and Gila River Youth Conference and the National Building for Native Youth. “We do see each other [four youth councils] a lot. We have a really great relationship . . . we always come together and we are all equal. It’s great that we have that type of relationship,” says Lisa Hendricks, 19, of District 2 and president of the AOPPYC.
The young leaders also informed the tribes of their upcoming events. For Gila River, the youth are planning to take part in the National Congress of American Indians (NCAI) and they are also ready to introduce new members to the council in the upcoming inauguration this October. The meeting ended with a lunch and gift bags for the youth and adults.
The next Four Tribes meeting will be hosted by Salt River Pima- Maricopa Indian Community.
Skeg Tash! My name is Raeging Storm Miles. I am 18 years old, and the daughter of Ernest and late Gracie Miles. I come from the village of Stotonic, District 4. This fall semester, I am attending University of Arizona aspiring to get into the College of Pharmacy here at the “U.”
I hope all community members are having a safe, wonderful, and an insightful year. For myself, I am definitely having a great year. There are so many honors I have been granted with this year. The main privilege I have received is to serve as an ambassador for the Gila River Indian Community (all of you!) in so many ways, whether it is events taking place on the Gila River or, at another community.
There is a major event taking place in which I ask for the Community’s support as a whole, along with advice. I will be representing the Gila River Indian Community as a contestant for the upcoming Miss Indian Arizona Pageant in the next couple of months. The Miss Indian Arizona Scholarship Program will be held at 6:30 p.m. on Saturday, October 13 at the Chandler Center for the Arts in Chandler, Ariz.
I know I have been absent in the
Community these past months, please forgive me, but throughout the next month I hope to be attending schools to speak to the young ones. You older ones will be my focus after I have aimed attention toward the younger ones. Since my platform is “higher education;” not many K-5th graders will know what that is if I have talked to them first.
By the time I hit 6th grade, I had my faults and that is when I knew for sure FOR A FACT, I would be attending college. I wasn’t even in high school yet, but that is when it hit me. I know most of you are completing at least your third week in school, I hope you are on top of everything! What I mean: doing your homework, asking questions if you are unsure about a topic, and of course, having some fun. For all our preschool, kindergarten, and 1st grade Parents (je’e & o’og), please, please, help your children with their homework. They’ll be grateful of it, and down, far down the road (where I’m at today), they will be appreciative for your support, help, and love that you instilled into them to make them a greater human being.
Me being new to college, coming from Seton Catholic Preparatory High School, it is not too bad. August 20th was my first official day as a college student and the only weird thing is that I do not have class every day. It’s amazing. Which gives me time to rest and do my homework. I have a longer time period to eat and even workout. For my high school seniors, if you haven’t already, sign up for the college SAT or ACT, start working on college applications, as well as finding other scholarships to sign up for. If you have a Facebook, do not be ashamed to ask questions either on the Miss Gila River Facebook page or even, my own personal Facebook page. This is what I’m here for, I am here to help all of you in any way I can!
Sapo’Raeging Storm MilesMiss Gila River 2012-2013
By Raeging Storm MilesMiss Gila River 2012-2013
A message from Miss Gila River
GILA RIVER INDIAN NEWS September 2012Page 10
By Roberto A. JacksonGila River Indian News
Ribbon cutting and open house for homes in District 6
Roberto A. Jackson/GRIN
Maria Parada, right with scissors, cuts the ribbon to her new home in District 6.
In 1972 the average gallon of gas cost 55 cents and the average cost of a home was $27, 000. For those that recall these sentimental details of the early 1970s then you might also remember a neighborhood of rental units constructed in the area adjacent to 51st Avenue, Tashquinth Drive,
and Pecos Road. Fast forward 40 years and now District 6 has added 24 new houses to the same area. “We’ve come a long way,” said Jeff Jordan, project manager GRIC Department of Community Housing (DCH).
Department of Community Housing commemorated the event with an orientation for the tenants followed by a ribbon cutting and
a review of the Residential Lease Agreement and Policies. “You’ll begin to see the turnaround,” said Anthony Villareal Sr., District 6 council representative, of the housing improvements.
The project was funded by the Native American Housing Assistance and Self Determination Act of 1996 (NAHASDA).
The tenants gathered at
the District 6 Learning Center on Aug. 17 for a continental breakfast before Housing Services Supervisor James Cutter opened the orientation portion of the agenda.
Villareal addressed the tenants followed by Albert Pablo, District 6 council representative.
Pablo extended credit to Tina Notah-Enas, GRIC Division Manager/Acting DCH Director. “Ms. Notah-Enas has done a lot for the district,” said Pablo.
Following the council representatives, Jordan described the new homes to the tenants as well as thanked other entities such as Land Use Planning and Zoning, Public Works, Contracts and Finance. “A lot of thanks should go out to them as well,” Jordan said.
Jordan said the houses have tremendous upgrades compared to the old units. The houses have better smoke detection, ceiling fans in every room, improved insulation and solar window screens to reduce energy costs.
Anthony Herrera, of Amerind Risk Management, did a presentation on insurance and the Native American Protection Plan (NAPP).
The orientation focused
on safety and how to maintain the quality of the homes.
Benedict Makil Jr., District 1 Block Watch coordinator, gave a presentation on organizing a neighborhood watch. “It’s our responsibility,” Makil said, “to protect what is ours.”
Gila River Fire Department, GRIC Animal Control and Pest Control were also on the orientation’s agenda.
The daylong event hit a high note when everyone moved from the Learning Center to West Tashquinth Drive for the ribbon cutting on one of the new homes. Department of Community Housing set up chairs, balloons, a podium and a bright red ribbon across the new house.
Maria Parada and her family had the honor of cutting the ribbon. The Paradas were selected as the tenants to move in to that particular house. “This is a dream that finally came true,” Parada said.
Parada was excited for her family and was overjoyed about moving into a spacious new home. “We have so much room now,” she said.
Similar to District 6, 25 new rentals units are on schedule to open in District 7.
The Sacaton Head Start Program has been searching for years to move into a new building. The old Sacaton elementary school that houses them now is 50 years old, has original Plexiglas windows that you can no longer see through and not near enough room to handle the mass of children trying to get their own head start each year. A brand new District 3 Head Start Facility will fix that.
The ceremonial groundbreaking for the new facility was held on Friday, Aug. 24 on the corner of Seed Farm Road and Cholla Avenue in Sacaton. Currently, that lot is nothing but dirt and one large, lonely tree with the Boys & Girls Club in the background. A year or so from now that tree will be the center of the new Head Start Facility. Construction on the new Head Start is set to begin this September.
“It started with the parents,” said Pat Foster, Director of Gila River Head Start, “They felt that their children needed a better center than what we had here in District 3.” Often times, parents help lead classes and interact with the children. “The families are very important to Head Start . . . they’re the ones who support the school,” said Patrick Luther, Sacaton Head Start Family Advocate. Head Start holds regular family meetings that keep the parents informed and up to date.
Head Start is a federally funded program for pre-school-age children of low-income families that promotes establishing solid educational foundations by “enhancing
their cognitive, social, and emotional development,” according to its website.
Mario Molina, Director of the Education Department, spoke about the importance of the new facility. “Head Start is crucial [because] there are so many kids,” he said, “The waiting list is huge . . . we just don’t have enough spots for them. A facility like this is really going to help us out.”
Ginger Robinson is the Administrative Assistant for the Head Start Main Office. She has been with the Education Department for over 20 years and Head Start since 2003. She sees this project as the fulfillment of past promises to education. “Education is really becoming a priority [in Gila River],” she said.
Gov. Mendoza spoke to that point at the groundbreaking. He said that after seeing the condition of the current Sacaton Head Start in a tour shortly after taking office, he made it a priority to get this project off the ground. He said, “When it comes to our children, they should be given number one priority.”
He went on to say that this groundbreaking “represents a new beginning in that it will be the first of a few Head Start Centers that we hope to see
coming in the next few years.” Head Starts in Districts 4, 5 and 6 may look forward to renovations or new facilities in the near future.
For this project, Gila River Indian Community Tribal Projects Development (TPD) worked with architect John Carr of DLR Group to design the campus around the tree, according to Project Manager Garry Melton, TPD. Rock Gap Engineering is the General Contractor that TPD chose to carry out the construction of the facility.
The new building will include taller classrooms, a multi-purpose meeting area, kitchen facilities, an infant nursing room, an arts & crafts room and adequate office space to house the Head Start Administrative Staff.
“One of the best things about this community is the way all the families come together,” said Director Foster. The forthcoming Head Start structure will be good for all the new students next year and the staff is particularly excited. Head Start employees and supporters Luther, Robinson and former councilman Rodney Jackson, who emceed the groundbreaking, are all former students of the program and have fond memories of when it was just starting out in the 1960s.
A summer breeze and a cloudy sky started the morning of August 14, as Gila River members and W.E O’Neil Construction broke ground on the new multi-purpose building in Vah-Ki, District 5.
Guests gathered at 6 a.m. on the west field of Vah-Ki ballpark to commence a project that has been in the planning for quite a while.
The groundbreaking ceremony started with a welcome and introduction from District 5 representative Franklin Pablo Sr. followed by a blessing from Annette Stewart, District 5 council representative.
The development of the building is, as Governor Gregory Mendoza says “a long time coming.” The District 5 service center has been, at the time, part of the capital projects, which is a long-term investment project paid under the community’s budget. The project was finally initiated back in 2006. Now, it is in the building phase as contractors start construction this month. Laurie Enos, D5 coordinator, who has been with the department seven years, gave her appreciation saying, “We look forward to the new facility. We
look forward to making things go in a positive manner for the district. We thank Governor and Lt. Governor for making us a priority and insuring that we get our facility in a timely manner.”
W.E O’Neil construction, established in 1925, has worked with Gila River on past projects. They also built the multi-purpose building in District 1. In fact, District 5’s building will have the same layout as district one.
The new single story building will be approximately 35,000 square feet and will include administration space, kitchen facilities, wellness/fitness area and other amenities. The new addition to the community will allow opportunities for its members to host meetings and socialize. Lt. Governor Stephen Roe Lewis expressed his thoughts on the new addition, “This building is more than a building . . . it is a coming together, a strengthening for this community to gather and problem solve and discuss the critical issues of this community.”
Governor Mendoza thanked all the guests and employees for attending the early ceremony as we celebrate yet another milestone in the community. The facility is due for completion by July 2013.
Community breaks ground on D5 multi-purpose building
By Annie GutierrezGila River Indian News
Photo courtesy of Michelle Hudspeth
Official ground breaking of the new D5 multi-purpose facility.
Sacaton Head Start gets new beginningBy Mikhail SundustGila River Indian News
Mikhail Sundust/GRIN
Ground breaking for new Head Start on Aug. 24 in Sacaton.
GILA RIVER INDIAN NEWSSeptember 2012 Page 11
GILA RIVER INDIAN NEWS September 2012Page 12
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September 2012 Page 13GILA RIVER INDIAN NEWS
September 2012GILA RIVER INDIAN NEWSPage 14
We don’t need Hank Williams, Jr. to ask us if we are ready for some football because we’ve been ready since Eli Manning’s déjà vu performance against the New England Patriots in Super Bowl XLVI. Two hundred fourteen days separate the end of last season to the kick off of the new regular season. So put on your imitation jersey, and look up new ways to wrap bacon around another meat because football is back.
Football made big headlines over the offseason, but they were not all pleasant. The Bounty-gate saga was as salacious as any Spanish soap opera. You had the NFL Commissioner Roger Goodell doling out big-time suspensions to those players, coaches and personnel affi liated with the bounty system employed by the New Orleans Saints.
What about the around the clock Peyton Manning watch? How surreal was it to see him meeting with the Arizona Cardinals? That carousel spun around for a couple of weeks until it landed in John Elway’s back yard.
During the offseason the NFL lost a legend when Hall of Fame linebacker Junior Seau was found dead of a self-infl icted gun shot wound at his home in California.
And, by the way, a growing list of former players is suing the league for, “intentional tortious misconduct, including fraud, and intentional misrepresentation and negligence,” according to the master complaint against the NFL.
So much for an “off-season.”Even though my picks
from last year were less like Nostradamus and more like Harold Camping, let’s see if I can make up for it.
I’ve crunched the numbers and evaluated every possible aspect about all 32 NFL teams. I’ve taken into account statistical data and I even tested all the team’s colors for the best feng shui. So without any further delay here are the GRIN’s infallible and absolute picks for the new football season.
AFC East winner – New Eng-land Patriots
I wish I didn’t have to pick these guys every year but I just don’t see the other teams in this division unseating the AFC Champions. The Dolphins invested a lot in rookie QB Ryan Tannehill but Snowfl ake the dolphin would have a better chance taking the Fins to the playoffs. Last year the Buffalo Bills started out 5-2 but fi nished 1-8. Ruff Buff might make some noise after revamping their defense with sack master Mario Williams rushing off the edge. For some reason the New York Jets have been in the news more than the Super Bowl Champion New York Giants. But all those headlines won’t add up in the win column and the Jets can “Tebow” from home during the playoffs.
AFC North winner – Pitts-burgh Steelers
The black and gold might not reach last year’s 12-4 mark but I still see them outclassing the rest of the fi eld. Baltimore Ravens defensive wizard Terrell Suggs blew out his Achilles while the rest of their D gets a year older. The Cincinnati Bengals were a surprise playoff team last year with rookies Andy Dalton and A.J. Green making big contributions. But they were 0-4 against the Steelers and Ravens, and only one of their nine wins came against an opponent with a winning record. I think this year they will be battling the sophomore slump and take a step back. The Cleveland Browns are in this division on paper and that’s about it. By the end of the year the Dawg Pound will turn into the Pound Puppies once again.
AFC West winner – San Diego Chargers
This is one of the most interesting divisions to break down. No one ran away with this division last year. Three of the teams fi nished 8-8 and one fi nished 7-9. Phillip Rivers had a down year in 2011. He did throw over 4,600 yards, but toss in 20 interceptions and an 88.7 QB rating and you have an up and down year for the former Pro
Bowl player. Ten of his 20 picks occurred during a brutal six-game losing streak in the middle of the season. But they fi nished the season 4-1 and had the same record as the Denver Broncos. I think Rivers bounces back into form and he takes the Chargers to another playoff berth, which saves Norv Turner’s hide another year.
The Denver Broncos pulled off a major coup by landing Peyton Manning. As hard as it is to imagine him in blue and orange, you can bet that he will give them the best chance to make a run for the title since John Elway and company won back-to-back Super Bowls.
The Oakland Raiders and the Kansas City Chiefs have a lot to prove this year and I think they will be in a good position to play spoiler at the end of the season.
AFC South winner – Houston Texans
This is Houston’s division to lose, but health remains a factor. Quarterback Matt Schaub went down for the year in Week 10 and Andre Johnson is coming off a surgery of his own. Arian Foster will put up big numbers and despite the loss of Mario Williams I think the defense will build off of last year’s turnaround. The Tennessee Titans remain the only legitimate threat to the Texans while the Jacksonville Jaguars and the Indianapolis Colts will battle for last place. However all eyes will be on Colts QB Andrew Luck as he takes his fi rst snaps in what should be a long and productive career.
Wild Card Teams – Denver Broncos, Buffalo Bills
NFC East winner – New York Giants
The boys in blue snuck into the playoffs last year and once again played their best football on the way to another Super Bowl victory. The Philadelphia Eagles and Dallas Cowboys had high hopes but their champagne is still on ice. I don’t think the Giants can pull off a run like last year but they will outlast the rest of the bunch. The Eagles have the most room to improve and I think they will challenge
the Giants late in the year. The Cowboys had a good draft and are looking to rebound from last year’s late season meltdown. The Washington Redskins are starting a rookie at QB. Although Robert Griffi n III is no ordinary rookie, it would be hard for him to survive this tough division.
NFC North winner – Green Bay Packers
Everything was going right for the Green Bay Packers until the playoffs started. The Giants stunned the top-seeded Packers spoiling, the Super Bowl dreams of Cheese-heads everywhere. If they are able to put 2011 to bed then the Packers will be the team to beat in the North behind MVP Aaron Rodgers. One team you can’t overlook though is the Chicago Bears. They started 7-3 last year and the only thing that could have kept them out of the playoffs would have been a monumental collapse and injuries to key players. Wait, that’s exactly what happened. They showed a lot of promise before the injuries and they will right the ship this year. The Detroit Lions are too immature to take the big leap forward and the Minnesota Vikings are hoping that Adrian Peterson recovers from blowing out his knee.
NFC West winner – San Fran-cisco 49ers
Are the San Francisco 49ers going 13-3 again? No. Are they still the team to beat? You bet. They had a perfect opportunity to get to the Super Bowl last year until Kyle Williams fumbled a crucial punt late in the NFC Championship game. Arizona State fans remember him doing the same thing against U of A. But they bring back their lights-out defense and a revamped receiving corp. However, a tougher schedule will make their ride to the playoffs a little bumpy. The Seattle Seahawks will improve from last year but not by much. Jeff Fisher is the new coach in St. Louis as the Rams try to put it all together. I think they are still a year away but they might surprise some people. As for the Arizona Cardinals, they turned around what could have
been a disastrous season in 2011. Defensive Coordinator Ray Horton had the defense playing with more confi dence and it showed on the fi eld. But in the NFL it’s all about the QB and the Cardinals are still trying to fi nd the right guy. It is John Skelton for now but I’m sure Kevin Kolb will see some action. Hopefully there are enough pieces on offense and defense to give this season ticket holder something to cheer for.
NFC South winner – Atlanta Falcons
The Atlanta Falcons are contenders every year but now it’s just a question of them getting over the hump. They played poorly in the NFC Wildcard Game and have yet to win a playoff game in the Mike Smith/Matt Ryan era. The Georgia Dome is going to be rocking this year as the Dirty Birds win the South. The New Orleans Saints went from league darlings to league villains and the commissioner made sure they paid the price for their bounty system. Coaches and players were giving money to players who hurt their opponents. The Saints are crying foul but no one is listening. Expect this to be a down year for the Who Dat Nation. Carolina Panthers QB Cam Newton electrifi ed the league with the best rookie season of any quarterback. He is a one-man fantasy team and it’s only a matter of time before he turns around the whole team. The Tampa Bay Buccaneers couldn’t have played worse last year and I don’t see them raising the “Jolly Roger” anytime soon.
Wild Card Teams – Chicago Bears, Philadelphia Eagles
Champions – Houston Texans
If the Cardinals are unable to fulfi ll my hopes for a dream season then I think the Houston Texans have all the pieces to win the Super Bowl. The offense has a set of triplets that will represent the state of Texas like the trio from Dallas in the 1990s. Wade Smith will keep the defense dialed up to another stellar season. It won’t be easy but they can bring home the hardware and have a Texas-sized celebration.
By Roberto A. JacksonGila River Indian News
Page 15September 2012 GILA RIVER INDIAN NEWS
(SitNews) Metlakatla, Alaska - This month Metlakatla celebrates its 125th anniversary and emerging cultural traditions are on the rise in this Alaska Native community founded in 1887. The Tsimshians of Alaska have been learning of their Tsimshian culture by returning to their original homeland and learning songs and dances from their relatives of northern British Columbia. What is needed among the Tsimshian Nation is maintaining our Tsimshian way of life, our Sm’algyax (our Tsimshian Language).
Terrance H. Booth, Jr., Great-great-grandson of Adolphus Calvert, Neesh wil gum, of the Wolf Clan, born in Port Simpson, British Columbia has been learning, experiencing, and fi nding out about late relatives especially on their clans and the “house” that they belonged to. Terrance H. Booth, Jr. studies the true meeting of this adoption and has busied the proper way of putting his regalia together that refl ects his three cultures within him being Tsimshian/ Pima/ Thono O’odham tribes. His Pima/Tohono O’odham relatives put together part of his regalia. Pima women elders of Gila River Indian Community gave him the
name Eagleboy and he carries that proudly for it is highly incorporated within his artwork.
Terrance had the privilege of being in the presence of his late grandfather, Ira C. Booth, Tsimshian historian, tribal judge, boat builder, builder, and infl uential tribal member of Metlakatla, Alaska. Ira C. Booth was a great inspiration to his grandson, telling many Tsimshian stories, history and the great leaders of the past of Metlakatla. From his own relatives he gains and learns much from the people of Metlakatla. Terrance is an up-and-coming young man. Thanks to Sealaska Heritage Institute both he and Kandi McGilton of Metlakatla were hired to do pictures of Southeast Alaska Regalia that will displayed at Sealaska Heritage Institute and archived.
Terrance has been an artist participant with the Heard Museum in Phoenix, which each March has an International Native Art show last one had over 600 Native artists. It is noted in his artwork he is highly infl uenced by the three cultures within him and noted the Tsimshian infl uence. His return to Metlakatla, Alaska his mentors and a former Tsimshian Art teacher, Mr. Jack Hudson who was Tsimshian art instructor for nearly 40 years in Annette Island School District, this writer thinks the only school district with a Master Native Art Instructor. Terrance now is collaborating with his teacher/mentor to further
perfect Tsimshian Art. Terrance is one of the Native Art Instructors putting his training and artwork to full use for future generation of Tsimshian Artists.
This adoption has full cultural meaning for his regalia from his Pima side of the family. It all started with family prayer and four days of remembrance of his Pima Relatives. He refl ects on his three cultures within him and this clan adoption deeply roots him in the Tsimshian cultural ways and will make a marked impression upon his traditional way of life, especially being among other noted Tsimshian Artists.
His exposure to other Southeast Alaska Natives, namely Haida, Tlingit and Tsimshian will even have more of an impact upon the rich heritage of each of these tribes. The adoption into the Wolf Clan (Laxgibuu) means to this family lies an awakening of being among the ancestors and reconnecting with our ancestors of the Tsimshian. To this writer and father it is an acknowledgement giving full remembrance to Tsimshian relatives keeping the Tsimshian traditions alive and maintaining the clans of our ancestors. Along with the adoption is the making or acquiring the gifts to give away as a remembrance that we become keepers of our Tsimshian traditions and keep our Tsimshian ways alive.
Our family is proud family of Terrance as he establishes his rightful place among the Tsimshian Peoples and keeps
alive his great-great-grandfather’s Adolphus Calvert’s Clan alive. His accomplishments will be more noted as he gets completely rooted into the Tsimshian traditional ways of life.
His accomplishments:◦ Artist – presenting
Tsimshian/Pima/Thono O’odham artwork at two Heard Museum Native Art shows.
◦ Showcasing his art at the Cultural Center & Museum is located Topawa, AZ.
◦ Art Work Featured on Fine Art http://fi neartamerica.com/profi les/terrance-h-booth-jr.html
◦ Pending Publication of “Sullivan Art Collection” 14th Edition, by Vicki and Ron Sullivan, Art collectors of Native Art work, Terrance traded and bartered for Pueblo Zuni Necklace and matching Earrings (both of pieces will be gifted at adoption celebration).
◦ Hired at Annette Island School District as Native Graphic Art Instructor for school year 2011-2012
◦ Winning Tsimshian Artist for Annette Island School District Elementary School by creating a new school logo refl ecting school is Tsimshian school.
◦ Mentored under Mr. Jack Hudson for many years and now is collaborating with his teacher/mentor on art pieces making full use of his graphic arts training.
On August 10th, Terrance H. Booth, Jr. gets clan adoption into the Wolf Clan.
O’odham with Alaskan Native ties is adopted into Wolf Clan of Metlakatla, AK
By Terrance H. Booth, Sr.Tsimshian Tribe
Photo Courtesy of Terrance H. Booth, Jr.
Page 16 September 2012EDUCATION
Tribal Education Department "Maschahamdud a Jeniktha"
8th Annual Reservation Wide Teacher In-Service‘Self-Reliance through Culture and Education’
IRA H. HAYES HIGH SCHOOL
The new school year kicked off this month with a visit to Gila River schools from – well, a kicker. Nick Lowery, retired National Football League seven-time All-Pro Kicker and Kansas City Chiefs Hall of Famer, visited Ira Hayes High School and Vechij Himdag Mashchamakud on Aug. 14th to speak with students about identity, character and persistence.
“Focus...Focus on what you love doing,” said Lowery to a room full of students at Ira Hayes High School. Lowery wore his famous #8 Kansas City Chiefs jersey and tossed a football back and forth with the kids. Don’t worry about trying to be who “they want you to be,” he said, fi nd who you are and be true to that. “Choose greatness,” he said.
The football star told of a Pro Bowl game in which he kicked the game-winning fi eld goal but his success felt empty. He said he was lonely because, “I didn’t have my family with me.” It is important to surround yourself with positive infl uences, Lowery told the students, and to keep your family close.
Lowery is an experienced
motivational speaker and active proponent of Native American youth empowerment. He uses his experiences with the NFL to illustrate how one can rise above life’s challenges. Lowery was cut 11 times from eight different NFL teams; despite these setbacks he rose to become the league’s most accurate kicker and still holds the Chiefs’ record for the most fi eld goals ever.
Lowery is also a recipient of the Byron White NFL Man of the Year Award for his philanthropic work. He has established and
been involved in numerous youth programs, most notably the Native Vision Youth Football Camp and the Nation Building for Native Youth program.
Lowery closed his dialogue with the students by reminding them that talent does not lead to success. “Lot’s of the most talented football players never make the team . . . because they give up.” Lowery gave away the autographed football they had been passing around with his take-home message written on it in bold, “NEVER give up.”
‘Choose greatness’ says former NFL starBy Mikhail SundustGila River Indian News
Mikhail Sundust/GRIN
Former NFL place kicker Nick Lowery gives a motiva-tional speech to students at Ira H. Hayes High School.
In July 2011, the Community Council appointed the Education Standing Committee to assume control of Casa Blanca Community and sit as the School’s Interim Board of Trustees. Since then, ESC has investigated various community concerns brought to ESC prior to Council’s July 2011 action. ESC discovered that many of the issues raised were unfounded, but in sitting as the CBCS Interim Board, ESC has had the opportunity to work with administrative to hire and retain highly qualifi ed teachers, to improve fi nancial management and responsibility, and to address other administrative issues.
In tasking the ESC to sit as the CBCS Interim Board, the Community Council directed the Board to revise the School’s Corporate Charter to add a recall provision. The current version of the Charter contains no such provision and, therefore, there is no mechanism by which eligible Community voters can remove sitting Board members. The Interim Board has worked diligently to revise the Charter. The Board started by adding a recall provision – it allows voters in Districts 3, 4, and 5 (the School’s attendance Districts) to fi le a petition to recall a Board member. The Tribal Elections Offi ce will evaluate any such petition and, where appropriate, set a recall election. Other changes to the Charter are also being proposed, including the following:
• Clarifying the attendance boundaries;• Adding language to strengthen the requirement that Board mem-
bers have no felony convictions and have committed no offenses involving children;
• Strengthened language on Board members’ fi duciary duty to the School and Community;
• New language allowing Board members to be removed by the rest of the Board for cause; and
• New language strengthening sovereign immunity.
The Board has presented the Charter revisions to each of the three Districts the School serves, and is seeking letters of support before the Charter goes forward from ESC to the Council for consideration. Anyone interested in seeing a draft of the Revised Charter can contact the School at (520) 315-3489.
In fi nalizing a revised draft Corporate Charter for the School, the Interim Board has nearly completed all its assigned tasks. Accordingly, Board elections will be held for new Board members. Elections are tentatively set for September 24, 2012 (updated information will be provided to the Districts soon). There will be polling places in District 3, 4, and 5. More details will be forthcoming, but anyone wishing to run for the Board, or needing more information, should contact the School at the number above.
It has been ESC’s pleasure working with CBCS, its administration, its teachers and staff, and, most of all, its students. We are proud to announce that the student body made signifi cant jumps in test scores in all areas last year, and we expect that to continue. We thank the Community for its support during our term as the Interim Board.
For further questions regarding the Revised Charter or elections please feel free to contact Principal Eric James at (520) 315-3489 or Terrance B. Evans at (520) 562-9720.
Casa Blanca Community School Board Revises School’s Corporate Charter, Sets Elections
CASA BLANCA COMMUNITY SCHOOL
Submitted by the Casa Blanca Community School Board
Roberto A. Jackson/GRIN
Six lucky winners walked away with new iPads at the Teacher In-Service. The iPads, won dur-ing the Final General Assembly, will be used for educational purposes and to enhance the learn-ing experience for GRIC students. The In-Ser-vice was held at the Sheraton Wild Horse Pass Resort & Spa and featured several informative breakout sessions for school teachers and staff.
Page 17EDUCATION
Tribal Education Department "Maschahamdud a Jeniktha"September 2012
By Joshua JovanellyGila River Indian News
Joshua Jovanelly/GRIN
A few generations ago, parents could feel secure if they focused on keeping their kids away from alcohol, tobacco and marijuana. Nowadays, these are just a few substances in an ever-growing and ever-more dangerous list of drugs being used by teenagers.
“We are in a new era of drugs,” said Stephanie Siete, who on Aug. 30 spread awareness and urged parental involvement at the fi rst Family Meeting of the school year titled “Protecting Gila River Youth: A Closer Look at Underage Drinking and Drug Abuse.” “Drugs today are nowhere near what they were fi ve years ago or 20 years ago,” she added.
More than 50 parents and children fi lled the Family Meeting Room of Sacaton Elementary School to hear Siete’s 90-minute presentation on new drugs to be wary of, including spice, bath salts and prescription painkillers like oxycodone. Spice, made up of synthetic chemicals that mimic THC — the active compound in marijuana — is sold as incense,
while bath salts are crystal-like substances that have effects similar to amphetamine and cocaine.
Siete works for the Day Treatment Center at Community Bridges, Inc., a statewide facility that offers rehabilitation and outreach education and has provided Gila River school resource offi cers with drug awareness training. She stressed the importance of spreading awareness about drugs as early as possible.
“My goal is to prevent
what we treat,” she said. “This information needs to start in elementary school. That is the prevention age.”
With a slideshow presentation behind her, Siete encouraged families to talk to their kids about drugs and alcohol and reminded parents that they are their child’s most important role models. She said parents should raise standards and realize the powerful impact they have on their children.
“It’s very important for you, the adult, to be knowledgeable
about this stuff,” Siete told the attendants. “I’m here talking to your kids for one hour, but you’re in their life for life.”
Henry Jackson, whose 6-year-old son attends Sacaton Elementary, said he would be taking the message home.
“It gives us more of an outlook on what’s attainable for our children,” Jackson said. “It makes me more aware of what to look out for, and what to draw my kids away from.”
“It’s scary,” added Jackson’s wife, Kristin.
Despite much of the focus being on new drugs, Siete did not want to give the impression that alcohol prevention had diminished in importance. In Arizona, kids on average start drinking six months after their 12th birthday. Of particular concern are the alcohol-energy drink combinations, which mix caffeine and other stimulants all in the same can.
“The problem is the alcohol because it leads to poor decisions,” Siete said. “The goal is to push back that fi rst drinking experience.”
Donna Morago, whose
5-year-old granddaughter just started at the elementary, agreed that children getting exposed to family members who are alcoholics was a major problem.
“They see their family members on it and it’s not a good picture,” Morago said. “It’s scary to see.”
Siete warned parents that drug dealers are not providing the most harmful drugs anymore. These substances can be found in the medicine cabinet or under the sink, or can be purchased for a cheap price at smoke shops.
“We are in a different time of technology,” Siete said. “Some of the most dangerous highs are coming from houses.”
Boredom is the top reason teenagers start using drugs. Siete suggests that parents fi ll kids’ free time with activities their kids are passionate about, like sports or art classes, to prevent them from fi lling that space with dangerous alternatives.
“Drugs are a community concern,” Siete said. “People need to take off their blinders and realize drugs affect everyone. Congrats to a small community doing something about it.”
Stephanie Siete during the fi rst Family Meeting of the school year at Sacaton Elementary on Aug. 30.
New era of drugs discussed at Sacaton Family Meeting
Sacaton- The Sacaton Elementary School District № 18 is proud to announce that Mrs. Leatrice Mannie, a third grade teacher at Sacaton Elementary School, has been selected as the 2012 Pinal County Rural Teacher of the Year by the Arizona Rural Schools Association. Mannie grew up in
Ganado, Arizona on the Navajo Nation where she is an enrolled member. When asked why she became a teacher, Mannie replied, “I chose to become a teacher because there is a great need for highly qualifi ed Indian educators to serve the American Indian population. My mother is also a teacher who in turn
inspired me to become a teacher, as well”.
This school year marks Mrs. Mannie’s 6th year as a teacher and 4th in the Sacaton School District. She attributes becoming a skilled and effective teacher to the phenomenal mentor she had during student teaching who was a Rodel Exemplary
Teacher. Future plans for Mannie include pursuing a doctorate in Educational Policy and working at the college level in helping American Indian students attain their degrees.
Mrs. Mannie holds a bachelor’s degree in Elementary Education from Arizona State University and
a master’s degree in Educational Leadership from Northern Arizona University.
Sacaton Teacher Selected County Teacher of the Year
Right: Mrs. Leatrice Mannie, the 2012 Pinal County Rural Teacher of the Year and a Saca-ton Elementary School teacher, works one-on-one with a student
Page 18 September 2012GILA RIVER INDIAN NEWS
Community Council Action Sheets Wednesday, August 1, 2012
ACTION SHEETCommunity Council; PO Box 2138; Sacaton, Arizona 85147; Phone (520) 562-9720; Fax (520) 562-9729CALL TO ORDER The First Regular Monthly Meeting of the Community Council held Wednesday, August 1, 2012, in the Community Council Chambers at the Governance Center in Sacaton, Arizona was called to order by presiding Chairman Governor Gregory Mendoza at 9:05 a.m.INVOCATIONCouncilwoman Brenda RobertsonROLL CALLSign-in Sheet CirculatedExecutive Offi cers Present: Governor Gregory MendozaExecutive Offi cers Absent: Lt. Governor Stephen R. Lewis Council Members Present:D1- Cynthia Antone, Arzie Hogg; D2-Jewel Whitman; D3- Myron G. Schurz (9:15), Dale G. Enos; D4-Monica Antone, Jennifer Allison, Christopher Mendoza, Barney Enos, Jr.; D5-, Annette J. Stewart, Janice F. Stewart, Brenda Robertson, Franklin Pablo, Sr.; D6-Anthony Villareal, Sr., Albert Pablo, Terrance B. Evans; D7- Martha MillerAPPROVAL OF AGENDAAPPROVED AS AMENDEDPRESENTATIONS/INTRODUCTIONS1. Pinal County Republican Party Presenter: Myron Brown, Jr.Mr. Myron Brown, Jr. provided a brief biogra-phy and introduced each of the candidates: Mr. Jonathan Paton, Mr. Frank Pratt, Mr. TJ Shope, and Mr. Lando Voyles. Each of the candidates provided a brief introduction and overview of their platforms. Mr. Douglas Wolf was not in attendance; Mr. Brown, Jr. provided his brief biography. Various Council members and Governor Gregory Mendoza expressed their concerns and words of encouragement. 2. New Offi cer & Graffi ti Abatement Unit Presenter: Edward AlamedaChief Edward Alameda provided a brief overview of the program and introduced each of the offi cers: Ms. Caroline Brown, Mr. Justin Doucet, Mr. Jose Garibay, Mr. Andrew Spurgin, Mr. Aaron Werner, and Graffi ti Abatement Team member Mr. Todd Tate. Various Council members expressed their concerns and words of encouragement.[GOVERNOR GREGORY MENDOZA CALLED FOR A 10-MINUTE BREAKRECONVENED AT 10:54AM]REPORTS1. Off-Reservation Boarding Schools End of the Year Report Presenter: Christopher BanhamREPORT HEARD2. Gila Crossing Community School Tribal Allocation 2nd Quarter Report-Middle School Campus Presenter: Jeff WilliamsonREPORT HEARD[MOTION MADE AND SECOND FOR 2-HOUR LUNCH BREAKRECONVENED AT 2:06PM]3. Water Code – Offi ce of General Counsel (OGC) Presenters: Jason Hauter & Offi ce of General CounselTABLED AT APPROVAL OF AGENDA4. Health Resource FY11-12 Semi Annual Report Presenter: Laverne DallasREPORT HEARD5. Pee Posh Veterans Association-Third Quar-ter Report For FY 2011-2012 Presenter: Danny JenkinsREPORT HEARDMOTION MADE AND SECOND TO ENTER EXECUTIVE SESSION6. Gaming Internal Audit –Third Quarter Report April 1, 2012-June 30, 2012 (Executive Ses-sion) Presenter: Robert T. RussinREPORT HEARD IN EXECUTIVE SESSION7. Gila River Gaming Commission-General Report For Month of July 2012 (Executive Ses-sion) Presenter: Serena Joaquin REPORT HEARD IN EXECUTIVE SESSION8. Gila River Gaming Enterprises, Inc. Monthly Report June 2012 (Executive Session) Presenters: John James, Kenneth Manuel & Board of Directors
REPORT HEARD IN EXECUTIVE SESSION9. Monthly Financial Report For The Nine Months Ended June 30, 2012 (Executive Ses-sion) Presenter: Robert KellerMOTION MADE AND SECOND TO EXIT EXECUTIVE SESSION[MOTION MADE AND SECOND FOR A 10-MINUTE BREAKRECONVENED AT 4:47PM]RESOLUTIONS*1. A Resolution Approving The Relinquish-ment Of Stephanie Loyola Chiago A.K.A.: (Stephanie L. Rubio) From The Membership Roll Of The Gila River Indian Community (LSC forwards to Council with recommendation for approval) Presenters: Gwen Thomas & Enrollment DepartmentAPPROVED*2. A Resolution Approving And Authorizing Amendment No. 1 To The October 1, 2011 Agreement Between The Gila River Indian Community And Akin, Gump, Strauss, Hauter & Feld, LLP (G&MSC forwards to Council with recommendation of approval) Presenter: Linus Everling Presenter: Linus EverlingAPPROVED3. A Resolution Approving And Authorizing An Agreement Between The Gila River Indian Community And The Center For Applied Research, Inc. For Fiscal Year 2012 (EDSC forwards to Council with recommendation of approval; NRSC and G&MSC concurs) Presenters: Ron Rosier, EPROW Negotiation TeamAPPROVED4. A Resolution Rescinding GR-23-10 Which Approved A Fifty (50) Year Homesite Assign-ment Agreement, And Approving An Amended Fifty Year Homesite Assignment Agreement For Gordon Reams, Located In District Six Of The Gila River Indian Reservation And Designated As Draw-ing No. 30612-0063 (NRSC forwards to Council with recommendation for approval) Presenter: Pamela PasqualAPPROVED5. A Resolution Amending The August 2011 Gila River Indian Community Transportation Plan And Adopting The Updated Plan As The Commu-nity’s 2012 Long Range Transportation Plan (NRSC forwards to Council with recommendation for approval, G&MSC concurs) Presenter: Sasha SaliegoAPPROVED 6. A Resolution Approving And Designating 9.6248 Acres, More Or Less, Of Reservation Land Within District Three Of The Gila River Indian Com-munity In Order To Expand, Operate And Maintain The East Cemetery For The Purpose Of Providing Additional Space For Ceremonial And Cultural Activities As Shown In Drawing No. 30312-0145A (NRSC forwards to Council with recommenda-tion for approval, with corrections) Presenter: Dante NashAPPROVED7. A Resolution Approving And Designating A Parcel Of Reservation Land Within District Four Of The Gila River Indian Community To The Department Of Community Housing For The Purpose Of Constructing, Maintaining And Operating A New Elderly Housing Complex As Shown In Draw-ing No.30412.-0245B (NRSC forwards to Council with
recommendation for approval, with correction) Presenter: Dante NashAPPROVED8. A Resolution Authorizing The Offi ce Of Environmental Health Services Interim Author-ity To Inspect And Permit On – Reservation Public And Semi-Public Swimming And Other Water Recreation Facilities (HSSC forwards to Council with recommendation for approval, G&MSC concurs) Presenters: Tana Fitzpatrick & Laverne DallasAPPROVED9. A Resolution Approving The Removal Of Leon E. Manuel From The Gila River Indian Community Membership Roll (LSC forwards to Council with recommendation for approval) Presenters: Gwendolyn Thomas & Enrollment DepartmentAPPROVED10. A Resolution Approving The Relinquish-ment Of Roland Soos A.K.A.: (Clarence Roland Soos) From The Membership Roll Of The Gila River Indian Community (LSC forwards to Council with recommendation for approval) Presenters: Gwendolyn Thomas & Enrollment DepartmentAPPROVED11. A Resolution Authorizing And Approving An Agreement Between Applied Forensic Solu-tions, LLC And The Gila River Indian Community (LSC forwards to Council with recommendation for approval; G&MSC concurs) Presenter: David WhiteAPPROVED12. A Resolution Authorizing And Approving The Termination Of Interests In The Per Capita Trust And Directing The Distribution Of Trust Assets To Certain Benefi ciaries (G&MSC forward to Community Council with recommendation of approval) Presenter: Robert KellerAPPROVED13. A Resolution Approving And Amendment To The Fleet Management Services Section V. Vehicle And Equipment Acquisition And Disposal Procedure Of The Fleet Management Policies And Proce-dures As Approved By Resolution GR-109-04 (G&MSC forward to Community Council with recom-mendation of approval) Presenter: Henry PeralesAPPROVED14. A Resolution Approving And Authorizing The August 1, 2012 Agreement Between The Gila River Indian Community And Pietzsch, Bonnett & Womack, P.A. (G&MSC forward to Community Council with recommendation of approval) Presenters: Employee Benefi t Board Of TrusteesAPPROVED15. A Resolution Approving The Capital Projects Budget For The Gila River Telecommunication, Inc., For The Period October 1, 2012 Through September 30, 2013 (G&MSC forward to Community Council with recommendation of approval) Presenter: Robert KellerAPPROVEDORDINANCESUNFINISHED BUSINESS1. Confi dential Press Release (LSC forwards to Council with recommendation
to disseminate a Press Release through the CPAO) Presenter: Chelsea DurkinMOTION MADE AND SECOND TO ENTER EXECUTIVE SESSIONMOTION MADE AND SECOND TO EXIT EXECUTIVE SESSIONMOTION MADE AND SECOND TO AUTHO-RIZE THE DISSEMINATION OF A PRESS RELEASE REGARDING THE FORMER CHIEF OF POLICE MR. DEREK ARNSON THROUGH THE COMMUNITY PUBLIC AFFAIRS OFFICE AND TO FORWARD TO AZ POST A TERMINATION REPORT; FURTHERMORE, THE GILA RIVER INDIAN COMMUNITY THROUGH THIS MOTION DOES NOT SUP-PORT THE CURRENT CAMPAIGN OF MR. DEREK ARNSONNEW BUSINESS1. Cross-Reservation Nuclear Waste Transpor-tation (NRSC forwards to Council for discus-sion and action) Presenter: Amy MignellaMOTION MADE AND SECOND TO PRO-CEED WITH THE RECOMMENDATIONS OUTLINED BY THE LAW OFFICE2. Tribal Consultation with the US EPA Re-garding Curis Resources (AZ), Inc./Florence Copper Project (NRSC forwards to Council to have the Council designate the Litigation Team as the consultation body for the Community; G&MSC concurs) Presenter: Thomas MurphyMOTION MADE AND SECOND TO DESIG-NATE THE LITIGATION TEAM 3. Recommendation of Individuals to Serve on the Department of the Interior Secretarial Election Board (LSC forwards to Council with the recommendation of the fi rst option) Presenter: Javier RamosMOTION MADE AND SECOND TO APPROVE AND ADOPT OPTION #14. Declare Vacancy on Gila River Sand & Gravel Board of Directors Presenter: Linda AndrewsDECLARED5. Vacancies On The Litigation Team (G&MSC forwards to Council with recommendation of identifying one position as an LSC representa-tive and the second position to be selected and appointed by the Community Council) Presenter: Thomas MurphyDECLAREDAPPOINTED COUNCILWOMAN JENNIFER ALLISON – LEGISLATIVE STANDING COM-MITTEE MEMBERAPPOINTED COUNCILWOMAN JANICE STEWART6. Tribal Allocation Quarterly Reports (Ex-ecutive Session) (ESC forwards to Council; G&MSC concurs) Presenter: Mario MolinaMOTION MADE AND SECOND TO DE-CREASE THE TRIBAL ALLOCATIONS BY 15% TO VHM AND IRA HAYES SCHOOL [Addendum to Agenda]7. Community Council Concerns – Re: Com-munity Budget Process Presenters: Community CouncilITEM DISCUSSED MINUTES1. May 2, 2012 Regular MeetingAPPROVED WITH CORRECTIONSANNOUNCEMENTS>REQUEST FOR COUNCIL DISTRIBUTION OF INFORMATION>CONCERNS EXPRESSED REGARDING MINUTES AND COUNCIL SECRETARY EVALUATION>EXECUTIVE/COUNCIL WORK SESSION RESCHEDULED TO NEXT MONTH>REQUESTS FOR COUNCIL CALENDAR DISTRIBUTION>REQUEST FOR DISTRIBUTION OF BUD-GET CALENDAR>TRIBAL TEACHERS’ IN-SERVICE FRIDAY, AUGUST 10, 2012ADJOURNMENTMEETING ADJOURNED AT 7:23PM* Denotes TABLED from previous meeting(s)
September 2012 Page 19GILA RIVER INDIAN NEWS
Community Council Action Sheets Wednesday, August 15, 2012ACTION SHEETCommunity Council; PO Box 2138; Sacaton, Arizona 85147; Phone (520) 562-9720; Fax (520) 562-9729CALL TO ORDER The Second Regular Monthly Meeting of the Community Council held Wednesday August 15, 2012, in the Community Council Chambers at the Governance Center in Sacaton, Arizona was called to order by presiding Chairman Governor Gregory Mendoza at 9:06 a.m.INVOCATIONProvided by Councilwoman Monica AntoneROLL CALLSign-In Sheet CirculatedExecutive Offi cers Present:Governor Gregory MendozaExecutive Offi cers Absent:Lt. Governor Stephen R. Lewis Council Members Present:D1-Cynthia Antone; D2-Jewel Whitman; D3-Myron G. Schurz, Dale G. Enos; D4- Jennifer Allison, Christopher Mendoza, Barney Enos, Jr.; D5-Brenda Robertson (9:30), Franklin Pablo, Sr.; D6-Anthony Villareal, Sr., Albert Pablo, Terrance B. Evans (9:08); D7- Martha MillerCouncil Members Absent:D1- Arzie Hogg; D5- Annette J. Stewart, Janice F. StewartAPPROVAL OF AGENDAAPPROVED AS AMENDEDPRESENTATIONS/INTRODUCTIONS1. Brenalee Sakiestewa - Miss Native Ameri-can USA ContestantPresenter: Brenalee SakiestewaMS. BRENALEE SAKIESTEWA INTRO-DUCED HERSELF TO THE COUNCIL AND PROVIDED A BRIEF OVERVIEW OF HER CANDIDACY PLATFORM. VARIOUS COUN-CIL MEMBERS AND GOVERNOR GREGORY MENDOZA PROVIDED WORDS OF EN-COURAGEMENT AND SUPPORT.2. Life Saving Award To Cletus Thomas Presenter: Thomas C. KnappTABLEDREPORTS*1. Water Code – Offi ce of General Counsel (OGC) Presenter: Jason Hauter & Offi ce of General CounselTABLED2. Head Start Federal Review Follow-up Report Presenter: Pat FosterTABLED AT APPROVAL OF AGENDA3. Gila River Telecommunications, Inc. 2Q2012 Update & Subsidiaries Gila River Asset Management 2Q2012 Update, Alluvion Communications 2Q2012 Update, Native Technology Solutions, Inc. 2Q2012 Update Presenters: Bruce Holdridge & GRTI BoardREPORT HEARD 4. FY12 Semi-Annual Tobacco Tax Report Presenters: Richard Narcia & GRHC BoardREPORT HEARD[GOVERNOR GREGORY MENDOZA CALLED FOR A 10-MINUTE BREAKRECONVENED AT 11:23AM]5. Educational Information – AHCCCS/ Other Benefi ts Presenters: Richard Narcia & Ginger FliggerREPORT HEARD6. Strong Heart Study Report Presenters: Barbara Howard & Darren Cal-houn TABLED AT APPROVAL OF AGENDA7. GRHC Dialysis Action Plan Update Presenters: Richard Narcia & Amish PurohitREPORT HEARD[MOTION MADE AND SECOND FOR 90-MIN-UTE LUNCH BREAKRECONVENED AT 1:59PM]8. Defense Services Offi ce ReportPresenter: Cecilia VacaREPORT HEARD9. Per Capita Trust Summary Report Presenter: Robert KellerREPORT HEARDMOTION MADE AND SECOND TO ENTER EXECUTIVE SESSION10. Monthly Financial Activity Report (Execu-tive Session) Presenter: Robert KellerREPORT HEARD IN EXECUTIVE SESSION11. ITCA Audit (Executive Session) Presenter: Mario MolinaREPORT HEARD IN EXECUTIVE SESSIONMOTION MADE AND SECOND TO EXIT EXECUTIVE SESSION
[GOVERNOR GREGORY MENDOZA CALLED FOR A 10-MINUTE BREAKRECONVENED AT 4:10PM]RESOLUTIONS1. A Resolution Approving Funding To The Gila Crossing Community School To Provide Early Literacy Pre-School Program To Three & Four Year Olds In Joint & Equal Partnership With First Things First Gila River Indian Community Regional Partnership Council Grant Funding (ESC forwards to Council with recommenda-tion for approval; G&MSC concurs) Presenter: Mario MolinaAPPROVED2. A Resolution Granting A Utility Easement To The Salt River Agricultural Improvement And Power District For The Purpose Of Accessing, Oper-ating and Maintaining A 12KV Electrical Distribution Line Within The Exterior Boundaries Of The Gila River Indian Reservation And More Specifi cally Upon Community Trust Land In District 6 Of The Gila River Indian Reservation And Described Within Drawing No. 20609-0136-EA-01(NRSC forwards to the Council with recommendation for approval, with the correction) Presenter: Rod TuttleAPPROVED3. A Resolution Amending GR-170-09 By Recognizing And Approving A Boundary Adjustment For The Gila Crossing Community School Totaling 11.9006 Acres Of Reservation Land Within District Six Of The Gila River Indian Community For The Operation And Maintenance Of The Gila Crossing Community School As Shown In Drawing No. 40612-0063B (NRSC forwards to the Council with recommendation for approval, with the changes)Presenter: Dante NashDISPENSED AT APPROVAL OF AGENDA4. A Resolution Authorizing And Approving The Memorandum Of Agreement Between Arizona State University School Of Social Work, Offi ce Of American Indian Projects And The Gila River Indian Community (H&SSC forwards to Council with recommendation of approval, G&MSC con-curs) Presenter: David WhiteTABLED AT APPROVAL OF AGENDA5. A Resolution Approving The Relinquishment Of Jason James Loretto From The Gila River Indian Community Membership Roll (LSC forwards to Council with recommendation for approval) Presenter: Gwendolyn ThomasTABLED AT APPROVAL OF AGENDA6. A Resolution Approving The Grant Applica-tion To The United States Department Of Health And Human Services For A Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program For The Gila River Indian Community (G&MSC motioned to forward to Council with recommendation of approval) Presenter: Pamela ThompsonAPPROVED7. A Resolution Approving The New Gila River Indian Community Travel Policy And Rescind-ing The Travel Policy Authorized Under Resolution GR-215-02 (G&MSC motioned to forward the revised copy to Council with recommendation of ap-proval) Presenter: Robert KellerAPPROVED8. A Resolution Modifying The Use And Distri-bution Of Monies From The Gila River Indian Com-munity Water Settlement Fund For The Operations of The Gila River Indian Irrigation And Drainage
District And For The Purchase Of Central Arizona Project water In Fiscal Year 2013 (G&MSC motioned to forward to Council with recommendation of approval) Presenter: Robert KellerAPPROVED9. A Resolution Establishing A Capital Projects Carry-Over Fund (G&MSC motioned to forward to Council with recommendation of approval) Presenter: Robert KellerAPPROVED10. A Resolution Approving Modifi cation No. 30 To The Gila River Indian Community Capital Projects Fund Budget (G&MSC motioned forward the recommendations that are going forward in changes to the Capital Budget to forward to the Council) Presenter: Robert KellerAPPROVED11. A Resolution Authorizing And Approving A Limited Waiver Of Sovereign Immunity For The Caring House To Enter Into A Custody Agree-ment With Charles Schwab Bank For An Employee Retirement Plan (G&MSC motioned to forward to Council with recommendation of approval) Presenter: Rebecca HallAPPROVEDORDINANCESUNFINISHED BUSINESSMOTION MADE AND SECOND TO ENTER EXECUTIVE SESSION1. Off-Reservation Gaming Update (Execu-tive Session) (G&MSC forwards to Council for discussion and possible action) Presenter: Scot ButlerITEM HEARD IN EXECUTIVE SESSIONMOTION MADE AND SECOND TO EXIT EXECUTIVE SESSIONMOTION MADE AND SECOND TO AUTHO-RIZE AND APPROVE THE RECOMMENDA-TION2. Department Of Community Housing Narra-tive Report Through June 30, 2012 (G&MSC forwards to Council) Presenters: Tina Notah-Enas & Lori FranciscoMOTION MADE AND SECOND DIRECTING THE COMMUNITY NOT TO AWARD ANY CONTRACT THAT WILL PROFIT OR ENRICH ANY PERSON OR ENTITY WHICH HAS PRE-VIOUSLY HAD A GRIC BUSINESS LICENSE REVOKED OR SUSPENDED3. Department of the Interior Secretarial Election Board Appointments (LSC forwards
to Council, under Unfi nished Business, the recommendation to approve Option 1; recom-mending District Four Council Representative-Monica Antone and Option 2; Governor’s choice of Council Representative) Presenters: Legislative Standing CommitteeCOUNCILWOMAN MONICA ANTONE AP-POINTED MOTION MADE AND SECOND TO AUTHORIZE THE GOVERNOR GREGORY MENDOZA TO APPOINT AN ADDITIONAL COUNCIL MEMBER GOVERNOR GREGORY MENDOZA AP-POINTED COUNCILWOMAN CYNTHIA ANTONENEW BUSINESS1. Gila Crossing Community School Request Funding To Rent Two Modular Buildings for Preschool Programs (ESC forwards to Council with recommendation for approval, G&MSC concurs) Presenter: Mario MolinaAPPROVED2. Patient Care at the Caring House (H&SSC forwards to Council as FYI) Presenters: Health & Social Standing Com-mittee ITEM HEARD AS FYI3. Request For Work Session With Community Council Regarding Property & Supply Process (G&MSC forward to Council to propose a work session on September 14, 2012 at 9:00 a.m. with Property & Supply here at CCSO) Presenter: Geneva GoodenDISPENSED AT APPROVAL OF AGENDA[ADDENDUM TO AGENDA]4. Gila River Sand & Gravel Overpayment Presenter: Robert KellerMOTION MADE AND SECOND TO APPROVE OPTION #2 OF MEMORANDUM5. District 4 Housing Advisory Committee Ap-pointment Presenter: Linda AndrewsSHARON LEWIS APPOINTEDMINUTES1. June 6, 2012 - RegularAPPROVEDANNOUNCEMENTS>DINNER MEETING WITH SALT RIVER, ROADRUNNER ROOM, THURSDAY, AU-GUST 16, 2012 AT 6:00PM>THURSDAY, AUGUST 16, 2012 AT 6:00 AM D5 MULTI-PURPOSE GROUND BREAKING>GOVERNOR GREGORY MENDOZA PRO-VIDED A UPDATE OF THE STORM DAMAGE IN DISTRICT 4>PRAYERS REQUESTED FOR THE FAMILY OF PRICILLA LEWIS-PRATTADJOURNMENTMEETING ADJOURNED AT 5:54PM* Denotes TABLED from previous meeting(s)
What is a CASA? A CASA is a Court Appointed Special Advocate. We are volunteers who are male or female of any age over 21. We come from all walks of life. What we have in common is the desire to make a difference. We receive training, submit paperwork, have a background check done, and are sworn in by the Gila River Indian Community Tribal Courts. What we advocate for is a child who is in the court system. We are an additional set of eyes and ears for the courts. We are the voice for the child who has been a victim of abuse or neglect. We talk to teachers, counselors, doctors, caregivers, and parents. We get to know the child. We speak up and let the judge know how the child is doing, what the child needs and are asked to give our opinions.
What is it like to be a CASA? It is a responsibility. It is giving of your time to help another. It is the hug of a child and the tug of your arm leading you to see something important. It is the trust the child
gives to you that pushes you further. It is the disappointment and the sadness in their eyes as they experience confusion to their situation. It is a sense of protection for the child. It is the desire to make sure abuse and neglect never touch this child again. It is attending court and having the judge look to you for additional information in the case. It is getting input from every source you can think of to make sure you are recommending the best and most informative information to the court. It is boldly speaking up using your voice and advocating for what is in the best interest of a child. It is an immeasurable, important and fulfi lling position to be in.
There are more children in the court system than CASAs in Gila River Indian Community. It is our goal to have a CASA for each child. If you would like more information in joining us in making a difference, please contact Irene Patino, Acting CASA Coordinator at [email protected].
Children still in need of advocatesSubmitted by CASA
What is a CASA? A CASA is a What is a CASA? A CASA is a Court Appointed Special Advocate. Court Appointed Special Advocate. We are volunteers who are male or We are volunteers who are male or female of any age over 21. We come female of any age over 21. We come from all walks of life. What we have from all walks of life. What we have in common is the desire to make in common is the desire to make a difference. We receive training, a difference. We receive training, submit paperwork, have a background submit paperwork, have a background check done, and are sworn in by the check done, and are sworn in by the Gila River Indian Community Tribal Gila River Indian Community Tribal Courts. What we advocate for is a Courts. What we advocate for is a child who is in the court system. We child who is in the court system. We are an additional set of eyes and ears are an additional set of eyes and ears for the courts. We are the voice for for the courts. We are the voice for the child who has been a victim of the child who has been a victim of abuse or neglect. We talk to teachers, abuse or neglect. We talk to teachers, counselors, doctors, caregivers, and counselors, doctors, caregivers, and parents. We get to know the child. We parents. We get to know the child. We speak up and let the judge know how speak up and let the judge know how the child is doing, what the child needs the child is doing, what the child needs and are asked to give our opinions.and are asked to give our opinions.
What is it like to be a CASA? What is it like to be a CASA? It is a responsibility. It is giving of It is a responsibility. It is giving of your time to help another. It is the your time to help another. It is the hug of a child and the tug of your hug of a child and the tug of your arm leading you to see something arm leading you to see something important. It is the trust the child important. It is the trust the child
gives to you that pushes you further. It gives to you that pushes you further. It is the disappointment and the sadness is the disappointment and the sadness in their eyes as they experience in their eyes as they experience confusion to their situation. It is a confusion to their situation. It is a sense of protection for the child. It sense of protection for the child. It is the desire to make sure abuse and is the desire to make sure abuse and neglect never touch this child again. It neglect never touch this child again. It is attending court and having the judge is attending court and having the judge look to you for additional information look to you for additional information in the case. It is getting input from in the case. It is getting input from every source you can think of to make every source you can think of to make sure you are recommending the best sure you are recommending the best and most informative information and most informative information to the court. It is boldly speaking up to the court. It is boldly speaking up using your voice and advocating for using your voice and advocating for what is in the best interest of a child. what is in the best interest of a child. It is an immeasurable, important and It is an immeasurable, important and fulfi lling position to be in. fulfi lling position to be in.
There are more children in the There are more children in the court system than CASAs in Gila court system than CASAs in Gila River Indian Community. It is our River Indian Community. It is our goal to have a CASA for each child. goal to have a CASA for each child. If you would like more information If you would like more information in joining us in making a difference, in joining us in making a difference, please contact Irene Patino, Acting please contact Irene Patino, Acting CASA Coordinator at Irene.Patino@CASA Coordinator at [email protected].
Children still in need of advocatesChildren still in need of advocatesSubmitted by CASASubmitted by CASA
September 2012Page 20 GILA RIVER INDIAN NEWS
Pictured from left to right: JoAnn Bojorquez-Administrative As-sistant/Board Secretary, April “superwoman” Childs-HR tech-nician, Kevin Allen-Director of facilities, Phil Morris-Training Specialist, Carrie Jackson-HR Technician, Richard Weschrob-Training Specialist, Amber Mix-HR Assistant, and Talia An-tone-HR Summer Intern. Not pictured: Kim Dutcher-Division Manager with the offi ce of Community Managers, Lucinda Rhodes-HR Director and TeriLynne Kisto-Asst. HR Director.
If it were not for the same spirit of communication, organization and cooperation that our ancestors, the Akimel O’otham showed the Pee Posh so many years ago, the GRIC Human Resources “10 Amendments” training would not have been the success it was.
The “10 Amendments” training included providing information and a reading of those amendments added to the
previous version of the Employee Policies and Procedures Reference Guide. During the training, each participant received a Policy Guide signature card, a questionnaire form to complete if any questions are needed to be answered by Human Resources and a training survey in which responses indicate how much the participant understood before the training and how well they will be able to use the information received in the training.
Under the direction of
Submitted by Human Resources Department
‘10 Amendments’ training a success for HR Dept.
Roberto A. Jackson/GRIN
Services (HHS) remain open. Lakota Elders, Lastrealindians, and the American Indian Movement held the Vern Traversie Justice Rally & March in Rapid City, S.D. on May 21.
The controversy was played out in the media and on the internet. And much to Traversie’s disappointment, the media coverage has been misguided and prejudiced according to Kara Briggs, a former president of the Native American Journalists Association. Pyramid Communications, where she works, is providing pro bono communications support to Traversie.
In recent months media depictions of Traversie’s competency and the severity of his wounds have gone from bad to worse.
In May MSNBC said that neither Traversie, who is visually impaired, nor investigators could see the wounds.
On May 23, Associated Press reporter Kristi Eaton compared Traversie’s supporters to, “those spotting the Madonna in a water stain.”
The Long Beach Post asserted that Traversie falsely reported his hate crimes.
In the Los Angeles Times, John M. Glionna also likened Traversie’s scars to Virgin Mary sightings on taco shells.
“The effect of this religious
reference has been dehumanizing, minimizing the real tragedy that happened in terms of a Native American man who has reason to believe that he was the victim of a hate crime,” Briggs said.
On Aug. 6 the South Dakota attorney general’s offi ce issued a statement on Vern Traversie’s case saying, “It was found that the allegations of mistreatment were not supported by the evidence.”
Cheyenne River Sioux Tribe’s chairman Kevin Keckler countered by saying, “Attorney General [Marty] Jackley has no business rendering conclusions about our Tribal Government’s law enforcement investigation.”
Briggs also released a statement saying, “In fact, neither the FBI nor HHS has rendered any conclusions about Mr. Traversie’s mistreatment.”
The Great Plains Tribal Chairman’s Association issued a proclamation called, “Support of Vern Traversie and Request for Justice.” The Facebook page, “Justice for Vern,” has over 5,300 followers.
Vern Traversie is coping with his health ailments while awaiting the fi ndings of the two federal investigations, and the beginning of his civil suit. “This is tremendously taxing on him, not only what happened at the hospital but subsequently what has happened in the media and on the internet,” Briggs said.
our own HR Director Lucinda Rhodes, session introductions were performed by Kim Dutcher, Division Manager and TeriLynne Kisto, Assistant Human Resources Director. The presenters for each of the trainings 15 in Sacaton and 4 at the Wild Horse Pass location switched off between Richard Weschrob, Phil Morris, Amber Mix, Carrie Jackson, April Childs and Talia Antone. Altogether, 38 sessions (including make-up sessions) have been scheduled that begin on July 17 and will be completed by August 18. It encompassed almost 1,700 GRIC line employees. Prior to this training, almost 300 management employees undertook 16 hours of intense and exhausting policy training focusing on various aspects of the Employee Policies and Procedures Reference Guide.
With the same spirit of generosity, we, the management and staff of the Gila River Indian Community, give thanks and recognition to the Sacaton Middle School administration and in particular, JoAnn Bojorquez, Administrative Assistant/Board Secretary, and Kevin Allen, Director of Facilities, for their hard work, organization and kind involvement to help ensure the training was successful.
From Page 1Sioux elder claims mistreatment and hate crimes at S.D. hospital
Word Match Solutions from Page 6
BIA PIMA AGENCY: PUBLIC NOTICEPage 21September 2012 ANNOUNCEMENTS & NOTICES
1. EULALIA MADRIDCivil Complaint HearingCase#: C-12-0036Court Date: October 16, 2012 at 11:00 a.m. in Courtroom #4, 2ND FLOOR.LOCATION OF COURT:SALT RIVER PIMA-MARICO-PA INDIAN COMMUNITY COURT10,005 E. Osborn Road Bldg. 23Scottsdale, Arizona 85256PLEASE SUBMIT YOUR IN-VOICE PAYMENT TOCarol Baptisto and/or Lynelle TrujilloSALT RIVER PIMA-MARICO-PA INDIAN COMMUNITY COURT10,005 E. Osborn Road Bldg. 23Scottsdale, Arizona 85256Carol Baptisto Administrative ClerkOFFICE#: 480-362-6348SRPMIC COURT 10,005 E. OSBORN RD.SCOTTSDALE, AZ. 85256EMAIL: [email protected]
CIVIL SUMMONS
The Bureau of Indian Affairs (BIA) Pima Agency (Agency) is releasing a Public Notice for a proposed Programmatic Environmental Assessment (PEA) to evaluate the potential impacts of approving easements for transportation projects on the Gila River Indian Community (GRIC), Maricopa and Pinal counties, Arizona. Preparation of the PEA is intended to improve the environmental review process for transportation projects on the GRIC.
The PEA would provide a general baseline of environmental resource data, impacts analysis, and resource protection measures on which future environmental review for individual easements may be tiered.
Subsequent transportation easement applications would be reviewed as individual
actions in accordance with the National Environmental Policy Act (NEPA) of 1969. Tiered NEPA documentation will evaluate critical resources on an application-specific basis prior to an easement being approved.
Project DescriptionNumerous existing public
roads (paved, chip seal, and dirt) on GRIC do not have recorded easements.
Increased commercial and residential development across GRIC has increased the number of transportation easement applications for new construction being submitted to the Pima Agency. In addition, applications for homesite locations may not be processed by the Pima Agency until legal access is demonstrated. Therefore, this PEA is designed to improve the process by which transportation easements are
approved for (1) existing roads with no recorded easement, (2) access to homesite lease areas (existing and proposed), and (3) new road construction. GRIC policy is to apply for multi-use easements such that transportation routes include space for utilities, such as electricity, water, gas, fiber optics, etc. Although the term “transportation easement” is used, the easements would truly be multi-use.
Purpose and NeedCurrently, in order for
BIA Pima Agency to approve a transportation easement, NEPA requirements must be satisfied on a case-by-case basis. The BIA proposes that future, project-specific environmental analyses for transportation easements would tier off of the analysis conducted in the PEA, and thereby allow the project-
specific analyses to focus on the critical, site-specific issues of concern. The preparation of this PEA would make the process of granting an easement more efficient for the applicant and the BIA.
Public Comment PeriodAs part of the NEPA process,
you are invited to provide written comments on this proposed action. No public meetings are currently planned. Please provide written comments on the project to the following individual within 30 days or by close of business on October I, 2012:
Ms. Cecilia Martinez, Superintendent
Bureau of Indian Affairs, Pima Agency
P.O. Box 8, Sacaton, Arizona 85147
Telephone Number: (520) 562-3326; Fax: (520) 562-3543
Programmatic Environmental Assessment for Transportation Easements
(Chandler, AZ) – Arizona’s largest 1880s Western-themed family entertainment town is proud to announce our newest retail venue to the family, The Silver Spur Tobacco Emporium at Rawhide Western Town. The Silver Spur Tobacco Emporium at Rawhide is a one of a kind cowboy cigar and tobacco shop which offers southwestern gifts, dia de los meurtos art and folk art. Complete with a cigar humidor, the Silver Spur Tobacco
Emporium is a man’s man retail venue, making any trip to Rawhide Western Town a truly Western experience. The Silver Spur Tobacco Emporium features Rawhide’s very own brand of cigar, Connecticut Shade, discounted cigarettes, leather wallets, cigar cases, knife selection from Morey’s knifes, art by Rob Richards, and much, much more.
Make your trip to complete and visit Rawhide’s Western attractions, which
include shows, rides, a petting zoo, four other retail venues, four dining options, an ice cream shop and much, much more. Join us for dinner at the world-famous Rawhide Steakhouse for Arizona’s style of steak, or try Rawhide’s own beer on tap at Belle’s Saloon. Rawhide can accommodate corporate and meeting groups of any size, offering seasonal and special packages to meeting planners locally and internationally.
Silver Spur Tobacco Emporium Joins the World Famous Rawhide Western Town
JUVENILE PROCEEDINGS:
1. GAIL BROWNReview HearingCase#: J-10-0121/0122Court Date: November 27, 2012 at 9:00 a.m. in Courtroom #4, 2ND FLOOR.
LOCATION OF COURT:
SALT RIVER PIMA-MARICO-PA INDIAN COMMUNITY COURT10,005 E. Osborn Road Bldg. 23Scottsdale, Arizona 85256
CIVIL SUMMONS
September 2012Page 22 GILA RIVER INDIAN NEWS
September 2012 Page 23GILA RIVER INDIAN NEWS
Gila River Telecommunications, Inc.“Proudly serving the Gila River Indian Community since 1988”
Box 5015, 7065 West Allison Road, Chandler, Arizona 85226-5135 (520) 796-3333 • www.gilanet.net • fax (520)796-7534
Enhanced Lifeline & Link-Up Program
A Federal Program
Elderly Concession Program
A GRTI Program
Who is it for?
What it does
Can you be on both programs
at once?
Do you need to re-apply?
• Anyoneovertheageof18• Accountmustbeintheirname• Incomeeligible• Anyonewhoparticipatesin1of10selectedfederal
programsandprovidesproof(Seelistbelow)
• Anypersonovertheageof55withanactiveGRTIphoneline
• Accountmustbeintheirname• Mustprovideproofofage
• Enhanced Lifeline pays for your monthly basicphoneservicecharges, leavingabalanceof58¢,fifty-eightcents
• Doesnotcoveranylongdistanceorcallingfeatures• Link-upcanonlybeusedoncetopartiallypayfor
initialinstallationfees
• Elderly Concession pays for yourmonthlybasicphoneservicecharges
• Does not cover any long distance orcallingfeatures
• Yes,ifyouqualifyforEnhancedLifelineandareovertheageof55
• Enhanced Lifeline will be applied to the accountfirst,thentheElderConcession
• Yes,ifyouqualifyforEnhancedLifelineandareovertheageof55
• TheElderConcessionProgramwillpayfor the remaining 58¢ that EnhancedLifelinedoesnotcover
• Yes,youneedtorecertifyeveryyearinJuly • Yes,youneedtorecertifyeveryyearinJuly
GRTI offers these two programs that assist in making phone service affordable, here is some information that will better help you understand the difference between the two programs.
Programs that qualify you for Enhanced Lifeline
Only one needed to qualify
___BureauofIndianAffairsGeneralAssistance
___FederalPublicHousingAssistance(FPHA)orSection8
___FoodStamps
___HeadStart(incomeeligible)
___LowIncomeHomeEnergyAssistanceProgram(LIHEAP)
___Medicaid(AHCCCSforArizonaresidents)
___NationalSchoolLunchProgram’sfreelunchprogram
___SupplementalSecurityIncome(SSI)
___TemporaryAssistanceforNeedyFamilies(TANF)orTribalTANF
___Incomeatorbelow135%oftheFederalPovertyGuidelines
GRTI offers these two programs that assist in making phone service affordable, here is some information GRTI offers these two programs that assist in making phone service affordable, here is some information
Understanding GRTI Programs
Sept. 3 - Labor Day
Sept. 21 - Gila River’s Native American Day
GRTI Closures For SeptemberJust to make you aware these are the dates that we will be closed in September, Don’t worry we will resume normal Business hours the following day or in the case of Native American Day the following Monday!
Thank You again for your continued support of GRTI!
VOTER REGISTRATION DEADLINES
Voter Registration Board Members
Voter Registration Forms are available at your District Service Center, the US Postal Service, Community Council Secretary’s
Office, or from your Voter Registration Board Representative
GENERAL ELECTIONRegistration Closes
Tuesday, October 9, 2012
Early Voting BeginsThursday, October 11, 2012
Last Day to Request an Early BallotFriday, October 26, 2012
General ElectionTuesday, November 6, 2012
District 1 Mary Blackwater, Joyce McAfeeDistrict 2 Joella Pasquale, Dennis PancottDistrict 3 Jane Johnson, Rebecca Kisto
District 4 Annette Tsosie, Daniel NishDistrict 5 Bonnie Lyons, Joseph StoneDistrict 6 Joyce Lopez, Jackie ThomasDistrict 7 Theresa Donahue
Note: If you registered after July 30,
2012 you are eligible to cast your
vote only in the general election
EXERCISE YOUR NATIVE RIGHT TO VOTE