Hendricks crowned as Miss Gila River 2013-14
Transcription
Hendricks crowned as Miss Gila River 2013-14
“ S e r v i n g a l l s eve n d i s t r i c t s o f t h e G i l a R ive r I n d i a n C o m m u n i t y ” B l a c k wa t e r - H a s h e n Ke h k - G u U K i april 2013 - S a n t a n - C a s a B l a n c a - Ko m a t ke - M a r i c o p a www.gilariver.org/news Vol. 16, No. 4 Owens will serve as 1st Attendant Unity runners carrying staffs during the 18th Annual Unity Run. By Joshua Jovanelly Gila River Indian News The borders that separate all O’otham people are fictional. They are products of Old World incursions and manifest destiny, imaginary outlines called reservations that have at times unsewn O’otham unity. These borders have the power to separate the Akimel O’otham from the Tohono, the Ak-Chin from the Salt River Pimas and Maricopas, or the Hia-Ced O’odham from the Mexican Pimas — only if the O’otham allow them that power. For a week in March, a group of O’otham young Continued on Page 9 By Mikhail Sundust Gila River Indian News Lisa Hohokimal Hendricks – age 20, born to Jiivik Siiki and Brenda Sekaquaptewa, originally from the village of Hashañ Kehk – is Miss Gila River 2013-14. The Miss Gila River 201314 1st Attendant, is Tyler Rene Owens – 18 years old, daughter of Marc Owens and Chrissy Stevens, from Casa Blanca. The Acacia Ballroom was packed. Five hundred seats weren’t enough. Gila River Indian Community members and guests from around Arizona filled the Wild Horse Pass Hotel grand ballroom on March 9 to witness the two courageous, young O’odham women vie for the crown at the 50th Annual Miss Gila River Pageant. For Hendricks and Owens, it was a night vivid with emotion and blurred by adrenaline. I caught up with the zealous duo about a week and a half af- Presorted Standard U.S. Postage PAID Sacaton, AZ Permit No. 25 Runners carry lessons back home GRIC scholars aiming high Mikhail Sundust/GRIN From left: 1st Attendant Tyler Owens and Miss Gila River 2013-14 Lisa Hendricks following the Miss Gila River Pageant. ter the pageant. On the other side of the table, dressed in traditional clothing, Hendricks and Owens interact like sisters. And like sisters, they share several admirable traits – ambition, intellect, bravery, a passion for their culture. Mul-Chu-Tha fun for whole family aton was honored as the Mul-Chu-Tha Parade Grand Marshall. Her float led the way down the parade route Saturday morning. “Julie always loved her people,” wrote her family in a statement, “especially the young, and dedicated a large amount of her time to community service volunteer efforts. She was actively involved with the annual MulChu-Tha, where she Mikhail Sundust/GRIN was a member of the Crowds enjoy the rides and food at the annual Mul-Chu-Tha Fair & Rodeo. fair board and assisted the Battle of the Bands for youth recreation programs and has 18 years.” By Mikhail Sundust evolved into on of the largest tribGila River Indian News The theme, “Embracing Our al fairs in Arizona,” said the Mul- Himdak,” was realized most fitLast year, a jegos rolled into Chu-Tha Committee in a welcome tingly during the course of the fair town and stole the fair’s thunder. letter to Community members and within the bounds of the “cultural This year, the 51st Mul-Chu-Tha guests. circle,” a special area set aside proceeded at full tilt with a plethThe fair and rodeo kicked off for traditional singers, dancers, ora of fun activities for the whole Friday, March 15 with a Jr. Rodeo, weavers and artists. Here, people family. a frybread contest, Quad-Nation from the O’odham, Pee-Posh and “Our Mul-Chu-Tha Fair and Team Roping and free carnival Pasqua Yaqui tribes exchanged Rodeo began fifty-one years ago rides. cultural practices and traditions as a fundraiser for the community The late Julie Jackson of Sac- IN the GRIN Gila River Indian News P.O. Box 459 Sacaton, AZ 85147 Change Service Requested Hendricks crowned as Miss Gila River 2013-14 Jaime Jackson/CPAO C o l o ny GRIN Kids..................Page 11 Letters & Opinions.....Page 3 Education.............Page 16-17 Action Sheets......Page 18-19 Health & Wellness.....Page 7 Law & Order.............Page 20 Culture & History........Page 8 Announcements & Youth & Elder..............Page 9 Notices.......................Page 22 Business man takes driving to heart Page 15 However, they differ on a number of other things. Pursuing tribal royalty, for example, wasn’t a major concern for Hendricks until last year at the 2012 Miss Gila River Pag- Continued on Page 6 through demonstrations and competitions. The circle transcended language barriers when a special delegation of O’odham leaders from Mexico stopped by to compare and contrast language use with Gila River O’odham language teachers. Clear on the other side of the fairgrounds another kind of cultural exchange was happening. Thoka sticks whipped through the air and feet kicked up dirt on the Thoka grounds. Dozens of women participated in the ancient game, which resembles field hockey. Thoka is only played in an eastwest direction and while there are no specific rules or penalties, “all women should have their traditional teachings of respect for one another when playing this game,” wrote District 4 Council Representative Jennifer Allison. There was plenty more earth moving going on in the Battle of the Bands tent. The Battle is one of the most highly anticipated events of the annual fair. More than a dozen bands compete each year for cash and glory. This year, the Papago Warriors took the top prize over the favored D Faktion Nyne, last year’s winner. Native Creed and Lopez Band took second and third place, respectively. Earth is Day Everyday April 22 2013 10 a.m-2 p.m. Ira H.Hayes Memorial Park-Sacaton Fo r a ny m o re i n fo r m at i o n p l e a s e c a l l : D E PA R T M E N T O F E N V I R O N M E N TA L Q UA L I T Y 520.562.2234 Joshua Jovanelly/GRIN Althea Walker credits AISES for her success. By Joshua Jovanelly Gila River Indian News Althea Walker didn’t grow up in the Gila River Indian Community. Neither did Victoria Humphreys. Walker grew up on the Nez Perce Indian Reservation in norther Idaho, while Humphreys, who was born in Phoenix, moved 28 times with her family until she finally settled in Akron, Ohio. Even though these young women don’t know each other, what bind them are a common GRIC heritage and an uncommon drive. They are utilizing their Gila River roots to advance the cause of Native Americans reaching greater heights in the academic and professional world. Walker, 26, is a senior at Arizona State University majoring in environmental technology management. She leads the ASU chapter of the American Indian Science and Engineering Society (AISES), serving as the Region 3 student representative. Also a senior, Humphreys, 22, attends Kent State University and is working toward a double major in applied and organizational Continued on Page 16 DEQ Spreading the Earth Day message: Page 12 Sleep Apnea in Adults Submitted bmitted by Dr. Xuong Wilkinson Chief Medical Officer Sleep apnea, or holding your breath when you sleep, is a common sleep disorder that causes an interruption of the sleep cycle and results in lack of sufficient sleep. In the United States, there are millions of people that are diagnosed with sleep apnea and many more that unknowingly have sleep apnea. This condition has a great impact on the overall health of an individual. When prolonged, it can leads to hypertension, poor control of diabetes, daytime fatigue, poor concentration, weight gain, heart failure, and kidney problems, to name a few. There are three types of sleep apnea: obstructive (the most common), central, and complex. The diagnosis of sleep apnea is based on a clinical diagnosis together with sleep studies. Signs and symptoms of possible obstructive sleep apnea are snoring, blocked nasal airway, daytime fatigue, lack of concentration, depressed mood, thick neck, and narrow or shallow oral throat and airway. The severity of this condition can be classified as mild, moderate, or severe. Based on the severity from the result of the sleep study, the doctor may treat with an assisted respiratory device, called CPAP. Life style modifications that can help include weight loss, tobacco cessation, as well as avoiding sleep medications and alcoholic beverages. In mild sleep apnea, the primary care doctor may inquire on sleep hygiene, treat conditions that cause nasal blockage, elevate the head of the bed, and suggest sleeping on your side instead of on your back. The problem is that when patients do not sleep well, they ask for sleep medications. Medications can worsen the problem. It is important for doctors to educate patients on their condition. For moderately and severely obstructive sleep apnea, a device called CPAP (continuous positive airway pressure) may aid to reduce the lack of air to the patient’s body during the time he or she is experiencing sleep apnea. The machine’s fan blows continuous air into the airway between the mouth and nose to the throat keeping it open, thus reducing low oxygen. Long- term lack of oxygen causes multi-system stress, resulting in chronic medical conditions, like those described above. Surgery is the last resort if mechanical aids do not resolve the problem. Central sleep apnea is less common and accounts for only five percent of all sleep apnea. This condition occurs when the communication between the brain and respiratory muscles is compromised. Causes include heart failure, strokes, drugs like opioids, and idiopathic causes (no known causes). If central sleep apnea is the diagnosis, improvement can be made by treatment of underlying disease. If CSA (central sleep apnea) is detected during a sleep study, the option to treat depends on whether there is hypoxia (low oxygen levels) or clinical symptoms. If there are neither, periodic observation is a reasonable option. CPAP, BiPAP (the assistance of natural breathing during inhalation/exhalation), ASV (Adaptive Servo-Ventilation), enriching the body with oxygen, and certain medications can be used to stimulate or regulate the patient’s breathing pattern. There are no single drugs of choice to treat this condition; therefore, before implementation of any medication, the causes of central sleep apnea must be evaluated thoroughly to maximize the outcome. In general, sleep apnea is a condition that leads to chronic levels of low oxygen and can result in numerous long- term chronic medical conditions. If you suspect you have or were told you have periodic and unusual breathing patterns, it is important for you to seek your primary care physician to discuss the possibility of having sleep apnea. Job Opportunities at GRHC A career at Gila River Health Care puts you in the center of one of the most sophisticated and industry-leading health care systems in Native country. We are recognized nationally for creating real value for our Native American patients. If you are serious about joining a team of engaged professionals, apply online at WWW.GRHC.ORG. GRHC Building Services Department - HUD Red Flag Projects for 2012 and 2013 GRHC is growing to meet the Community’s health care needs. Construction is indicative of a vibrant organization and sends the positive economic development message that we, indeed, are contributing to economic growth and the overall quality of life for the Gila River Indian Community. GRHC's transition to the Patient-Centered Team Model has demanded a very rigorous “building” initiative, with some projects being funded through HUD, and others designated within the GRHC Capital Improvement Plan funded by GRHC-generated revenues. Virtually all major projects for GRHC were awarded to Native American firms. 2012 proved to be a year of growth with robust construction efforts across both campuses, with many projects slated for completion in 2013. Below are listed the completed HUD Red Flag Projects for FY 2012. PROJECT STATUS HHKMH Pharmacy Expansion additional Pharmacy work space, break room, workstations, service counters & patient seating HHKMH Patient Registration Windows Renovation HHKMH Lab Department Expansion Benefits and Transportation Areas HHKMH New Environmental Services Workspace Medical Records Materials Management Komatke Health Center 17487 South Healthcare Drive Laveen, Az 85339 Phone: 520-550-6000 Fax: 520-550-6033 Accountability SCHEDULED FOR COMPLETION Completed in 2012 Design/Construction Phase began in 2012 Phase I Completed - 2012 Completed 2013 Phase II Completed - 2013 Initiated in 2012 Initiated in 2012 Completed in 2012 Completed in 2012 Hu Hu Kam Memorial Hospital 483 West Seed Farm Road Sacaton, AZ 85147 Phone: 520-562-3321 Fax: 602-528-1240 Ak-Chin Health Clinic 48203 West Farrell Road Maricopa, AZ 85239 Phone: 520-568-3881 Fax: 520-568-3884 Commitment Patients & Families Quality Self-Governance Trust Culture April 2013 Letter to Editor Governor Gregory Mendoza Lt. Governor Stephen Roe Lewis Community Council Representatives District #1 Arzie Hogg Cynthia Antone District #2 Jewel Whitman District #3 Dale G. Enos Myron Schurz Dear GRIN Editor, Publisher and readers, We the Native Americans incarcerated here at the Santa Rita Unit, would like you to know we rejoice and give ceaseless thanks and praise in deep gratitude. Revealing this now so that we are equipped to deal with these problems and whatever is thrown at us. With support from the communities we form a team, an organized spiritual organism utterly different from any secular and worldly organization. Native American Prisoners are interdependent- mutually dependent on one another, we emphatically inspire the confidence of faith to preserve in the direction and oversight from within the Bureau of Prisons. District #4 Once again, Thank you! Your humble servant, Jesse L. Chamberlain District #5 A remembrance to the late Popkoala dancers and musicians Barney B. Enos, Jr. Jennifer Allison Christopher Mendoza Monica Antone Brenda Robertson Franklin Pablo, Sr. Annette J. Stewart Janice Stewart Page 3 Letters & Opinions Special Memories A Special Memory for my Father Bernell F. Lewis Sr. and brother Possum. The day my brother was born on April 18, 1991, my Dad was a very happy and proud man. My brother never left my Father’s side when it came to traveling places. It saddens me to say now again he is up there in heaven next to his side. The 35 years my Dad was a part of my life I learned many valuable lessons. Through his teachings I would not be the person I am today. I valued his love for chicken scratch music and to speak when spoken to. I learn to help those in need like he did for the 19 years he was employed at P.I.M.C. My aunties Van, Bigsie,and Tootsie in my life give me a lot of support for me and my family. I just wish sometimes my Father was still here to see my son sing and dance his little heart out. So to my Brother Possum Happy Birthday to you and your Dear Friend John Davis who share the same birthdays! I Miss you both dearly but I know you’re in a better place .. Rest In Peace Love, Bernella Easter treat for Sacaton head start District #6 Anthony Villareal, Sr. Albert Pablo Terrance B. Evans District #7 Martha Miller Robert Keller, Tribal Treasurer Linda Andrews, Community Council Secretary Gila River Indian News Zuzette Kisto zuzette.kisto@gric.nsn.us CPAO Director (520) 562-9851 Roberto A. Jackson roberto.jackson@gric.nsn.us Managing Editor (520) 562-9719 Gina Goodman gina.goodman@gric.nsn.us GRIN Secretary II (520) 562-9715 Mikhail Sundust mikhail.sundust@gric.nsn.us Community Newsperson (520) 562-9717 Joshua Jovanelly joshua.jovanelly@gric.nsn.us Community Newsperson (520) 562-0001 Write to: Editor, GRIN P.O. Box 459 Sacaton, AZ 85147 Published letters or columns do not necessarily reflect the opinion of the Editor or Gila River Indian Community. LETTERS POLICY: GRIN welcomes letters and columns from readers. Letters 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. Gila River Indian Community P.O. Box 459 Sacaton, AZ 85147 (520)562-9715 www.gilariver.org/index.php/news Material published in the Gila River Indian News may not be reproduced in any form without consent from the Gila River Indian Community Mikhail Sundust/GRIN As my 7-year-old son Flaviano prepared for this year’s Mul chu tha Parade, he was so excited counting the days as they grew closer. When the day did arrive my Mom was so concerned for his feet hurting throughout the parade route, that we had to go buy sandals (which he never wore). He enjoyed performing for the public even towards the end when he busted his lip from going down too fast for the bills. He still continued his performance! I am very thankful for the huge support from my Mom, Aunties Kitt and Carla for helping with the decorations. Also Suzie for the use of her truck at the last minute. Also thanks to cousin Wahlean for the help with the popkola pictures of Frank Greggario, Simon Makil and Gary Davis. Flavianos performance in the parade was dedicated “In Remembrance to his great grandfather the late Linus Makil (popkoala musician), his brother the late Augustine Makil Sr. (popkoala musician), and Auggie’s son the late Richard Makil (also a popkoala dancer). Not to forget Clifford “Moody” Lewis for his talent in playing the guitar for the dancers as well. Good Job Flavi! CORRECTIONS March 2013 Issue: Under a photo, the caption should have read, “Hayes’ famous climb up Mt. Suribachi.” The GRIN encourages comments and suggestions about content that warrants correction or clarification. To report an error call (520)562-9719 or email GRIN@gric.nsn.us The Easter Bunny hopped into the Sacaton Head Start on Tuesday, March 26 with help from the elders of the District 3 Service Center, who provided homemade baskets and treats for the kids. The elders spent several hours over many days creating and preparing the baskets using everyday materials, said D3SC Elderly Coordinator Tammy Histia. They, their baskets and their fuzzy friend also visited the Sacaton Day Care that Monday. Patrick Luther, a Sacaton Head Start Family Advocate, said the D3 elders volunteer with the little ones once or twice a month – sometimes they read to them, sometimes they do arts and crafts, sometimes they tell traditional stories and sometimes they spread holiday joy to all the girls and boys. Page 4 Wild Horse Pass Substation Update: The Wild Horse Pass substation has been completed and will be energized by month end. The substation will play an integral role in the continued future development and growth of the Wild Horse Pass area. Washington Youth Tour GRICUA recently had a replacement opening for our Washington Youth Tour program. We are happy to annouce that Brandy Eschief from District 3 has been selected to participate in the program and represent the Community. Congratulations to Brandy! Summer Internship Program GRICUA will be expanding its summer internship program to include College and High School students. Please see our notice in this month’s GRIN. Line Crew Training: GRICUA’s Line Crew receives training at various times throughout the year. On this particular day, the line crew was practicing “hurt man rescue techniques”. Gila River Indian News Why Does My Electric Bill Vary from Month to Month? Everyone’s lifestyle is different, so even neighbors in identical homes will have different energy bills. But people expect to pay about the same each month for their own electricity use. One factor to consider is the number of days of service reflected by the bill. This number can vary. So even if you use the same amount of electricity every day, a bill for 29 days of service followed by a bill for 31 days would show an increase of nearly 7 percent. Look closely at the number of days a bill covers and divide the total amount of the bill by that number of days to get some idea of your daily electricity costs. Typical causes of bill amount variation are weather, vacations and lifestyles. In the Southwest deserts, temperatures and weather conditions can be extreme during certain times of the year. Electricity consumption varies as the outside temperature changes significantly, even though the thermostat April 2013 settings have stayed the same. When the outside temperature rises or drops significantly, the heating or cooling unit has to work harder to maintain the same temperature inside your home. Some people find a big surprise when their electric use does not significantly decrease when they go on vacation. A house doesn’t know it is not occupied and will continue to use power even though no one is home. So take steps to limit what is left on when you go on vacation. Many times when a customer’s historical use has changed, lifestyle has changed. Adding an entertainment system, a spare refrigerator/freezer or a fish tank all add to your electricity bill. House guests mean greater electric consumption. Similarly, if you have children leaving home, this can result in your household using significantly less electricity. Keep a log of purchases to help jog your memory when you have an apparent energy mystery. Reminders GRICUA District Days 2013 GRICUA will be at the Public Health Resource Center (433 W Seedfarm Rd in Sacaton) on the following days to accept payments from 10am to 3pm. April 8, May 9, June 6, July 8, August 8, September 5, October 7 November 7, December 5 CALL BEFORE YOU DIG GRICUA is a member of Arizona Blue Stake. Please call 1-800-782-5348 to request an underground line locate of both GRICUA and SCIP on reservation facilities. GRICUA welcomes your comments. You can email comments to gricuacomments@gricua.net. You can also go to our website at www.gricua.net. GRICUA’s Hours of Operation Monday – Friday 7:30 AM to 4:00 PM Payments are accepted on-line and by phone both during our normal operating hours as well as afterhours. If you have any questions regarding your statement or payment options please call during normal business hours. April 2013 Gila River Indian News Community Updates by GRIN STAFF Here are some monthly updates on the on-going issues pertaining to the Gila River Indian Community. Page 5 Full effects of Violence Against Women Act might have to wait The Violence Against Women Act, which gives tribes power to prosecute non-Native perpetrators of domestic violence, may not take effect until 2015. The reauthorization of VAWA that was passed by Congress in February and signed by President Barack Obama March 7 was hailed as a victory for Native American nations. But the full effects of the law won’t be fully implemented for two years. The law comes with stipulations to which tribal courts must adhere, similar to those included in the Tribal Law and Order Act. For a tribal court to try a non-Native accused of committing domestic violence in Indian Country, the defendant must have access to a licensed defense attorney and the judge must be law-trained and licensed to practice by any jurisdiction. GRIC has already been actively working toward meeting these requirements as part of the drive to enhance tribal sentencing authority under TLOA. If tribes want to implement VAWA before 2015, they must petition the U.S. Attorney General for approval. At the March 12 Legislative Standing Committee meeting, Community Council representatives discussed issues that need to be addressed so GRIC women can be fully protected under VAWA. Under its current federal funding agreement, the Department of Rehabilitation and Supervision is prohibited from housing non-Indians. This would have to be adjusted through a legislative directive by Council. Jury selection is another area to address. Non-Natives who live in the Community would need to be available to serve as jurors when a non-Native is the accused. Using non-Native GRIC employees as jurors was also discussed. Domestic violence affects Native American women at a disproportionate rate. They are 2.5 times more likely to be raped or sexually assaulted than other women in the U.S. Domestic violence is consistently among the highest reported crimes each month in Gila River. In September 2012, the most recent month on record, there were 88 reported offenses of domestic violence, according to police department data. Data on how many offenses, if any, were committed by non-Natives was not available. retary Cheryl Coppedge—to resign by Feb. 27. When they did not, EDSC sent a recommendation for the board to be removed at the next Community Council meeting on March 6. In the interim, Sun Valley presented at district meetings in D1, D3, D4 and D5 and rallied support from some Community members and when March 6 came, the vote to remove the Sun Valley board was never held and the issue was dispensed. But business has still stalled because under the 1980 resolution the company cannot make lease agreements without EDSC’s approval. A new amendment to Sun Valley’s master lease with GRIC would enhance Sun Valley’s authority to negotiate leases up to five years. The amendment was on the agenda of the March 27 EDSC meeting, but that meeting was canceled because there was no quorum. The next committee meeting is April 10. “We’re in limbo because the lease on Firebird is going to expire before we even get to the committee now,” Morago said. The lease with Firebird ends April 6. Bondurant events scheduled for April have been canceled until further notice. Sun Valley cannot hold any races until it buys safety equipment, and it can’t get a loan to buy the equipment until it can sign leases with tenants. Once the smoke clears, Sun Valley has major development plans to complement the racing infrastructure that already exists. It hopes to host at least 150 events a year. Future development projects potentially in the works include a theme park, water park and a movie theater. The Sun Valley Marina Corp. charter was approved in 1970. The property comprising Firebird and the surrounding area was recently valued at $20 million, said Arthur Felder, a consultant to Sun Valley. Eightythree allotted landowners own about one fourth of the land. Council appoints Sun Valley board members for lifetime terms. The master lease between Sun Valley and GRIC expires in 2019. Firebird races on hold Officially, Firebird International Raceway saw its final checkered flag March 30. But the Sun Valley Marina Corp., a tribal company that leases the raceway and the surrounding land from GRIC, fully intends to continue operating the raceway—just as soon as the company can break out from an unforeseen pit stop. When Sun Valley chose not to extend its 30-year sublease with Firebird president and owner Charlie Allen because of unfavorable terms, Sun Valley’s board of directors expected to maintain continuity and financial productivity immediately by signing the Bob Bondurant School of High Performance Driving to a oneyear agreement. Bondurant had already been operating as a sub- tenant under Allen for 23 years and with Allen out as a middleman, rent revenue going back to the Community would increase 500 percent. The ink was still drying on the Bondurant deal when the Sun Valley board was told it was invalid. At a Feb. 14 special meeting with the Economic Development Standing Committee, which oversees many tribal business entities including Sun Valley, a 1980 resolution was cited which canceled Sun Valley’s authority to make leases for less than a year without EDSC’s approval. EDSC then called for the Sun Valley board members—President Harlan Bohnee, Treasurer Pamela Pratt Morago and Sec- Governor’s February Employee of the Month: Agatha Apkaw Jessica Lopez/CPAO From left: Gov. Gregory Mendoza, Employee of the Month Agatha Apkaw and Lt. Gov. Stephen Roe Lewis. Submitted by Human Resources Throughout time, many cultures from the east and from the west have considered the care for elders their greatest challenge as well as their highest honor. This is one person’s story. Our February GEM Agatha Apkaw has proven herself time and time again that she cares about her Community and the people that live here. As she wakes in the morning, the only thing on her mind is getting to the service center early where she can ensure the food that is being prepared for the elderly is up to standard. On more than one occasion, she has gone above and beyond by rolling up her sleeves, throwing on her Sun Devils apron and assisting with that day’s food preparation. In those times of great need and short staff, she is always willing to take on the extra duties like dropping off the elder’s meals herself, taking the elders shopping, bringing elders to the service center to pay utility bills or even bring in documents if the elder is homebound. In addition, she has evolved her position to add more movie days, more shopping days and more activities than ever before…all in the name of that extra customer service for our most vulnerable of Community members. Because money, and sometimes the lack of it, can be a top priority for elders, Apkaw also assists with completing applications to GRTI for discounted phone services and helps them switch from SCIP to GRICUA for cheaper utility services. In short, this wonderful person is a respected and trusted advocate for the District Four Elders. By taking the time to actually talk to them, taking their health, wellness and general wellbeing to heart, and most importantly listening to them, she has become an exemplary model for D4 employees and for all employees across the districts. For all of these phenomenal customer service examples and so much more, it is our honor to present the February Governor’s Employee of the month, Ms. Agatha Apkaw. JOB OPPORTUNITIES Research Interviewers: NORC, a social science research center is seeking reliable, outgoing, persuasive people to conduct in-person interviews within the homes of residents in the Gila River Indian Community May – September, 2013. Must be able to work 20+ flexible hours per week, including late evening and week-end hours. Car, good driving record and telephone is required. $13.41 per hour plus .56 cents per mile. Interviewers must gain the cooperation of the residents of sampled households and maintain strict confidentiality standards. Census experience a plus. NORC is an affirmative action, equal opportunity employer that values and actively seeks diversity in the workforce. TO APPLY: Visit our website: http://www.norc.org/ Careers/>Click on> Current Opportunities/>Under the heading>Job Listings>Click on Field Operations>and search for Field Interviewer-NAHSG – Gila River, AZ (or call NORC Field Manager Patricia Maugherman toll free at (800)994-2325) Page 6 Gila River Indian News District 5 youth selected as ambassador for health education and research April 2013 From Page 1 Submitted By Jennifer Attoncknie Unified School District 497 Lawrence, Kansas Shaye White, a Community member from District 5, is a student at Lawrence High School in Lawrence, Kan. She was one of a few students chosen to serve as a Youth Ambassador for the AIHREA (American Indian Health Research and Education Alliance), and CAICH (Center for American Indian Community Health) at the University of Kansas Medical Center, and the Center for American Indian Studies at Johnson County Community College. While attending Lawrence High School, Shaye is involved in many activities. Although a freshman, Shaye has ran varsity crosscountry and received her varsity letter. This spring, Shaye will run track in the 800, 1600 and the 3200 meter run. Shaye was placed on the honor roll in past semesters, and continues to fulfill obligations as expected from any teenager. Shaye’s duties as an AIHREA youth ambassador are to attend events like powwows, health fairs, school activities such as a basketball games while promoting projects related to health and wellness for AIHREA and CAICH throughout northeastern Kansas. During her spare time Shaye serves as a member of Mikhail Sundust/GRIN Shaye White Photo courtesy of Shay White the “Called to Greatness Youth Ministry” with the Morning Star Church. She also attends and participates in the surrounding powwows as a jingle dress dancer. In the future, Shaye plans to run for the Miss Indian Youth of Lawrence, which is held every year in the fall. She continues to play the flute for concerts such as the marching and the pep gatherings. Her family and friends are confident that Shaye will serve as an Ambassador with great pride, dignity and gratification for not only her family but for Native Americans in the northeast region of Kansas. If you would like more information about Shaye or the projects in which she will be involved, please contact either her parent, Kris White at 602626-0398 or ouroadrunner25@ yahoo.com; or Julia White Bull at jwhitebull@kumc.edu Lisa Hendricks sings Shuug U’uhig for her traditional talent at the Miss Gila River Pageant March 9. Miss Gila River continued eant. Hendricks grew up steeped in O’odham culture, usually in the form of family and community gatherings with traditional singing and dancing. Growing up, she said, “I noticed that a lot of the youth were focusing on other things that aren’t O’odham ways.” This disappointed her and spurred her to run for Miss Gila River. “I would just like to use what helped me remember our culture, which was pretty much gatherings.” Owens is the complete opposite. She decided to run for Miss Gila River when she was about seven or eight years old. The first time she attended a pageant was in 2002. Seipe Flood was crowned. She dedicated several months of preparation to her attempt this year. “It wouldn’t have been the show [it was] if both of us hadn’t started planning way ahead of Teachings on government, culture and history for high school students Mikhail Sundust/GRIN Alexander Pablo addresses Community Council at the Governance Center with Cheyenne Jackson on the right. Pablo and Jackson were elected as governor and lieutenant governor, respectively, for the Close Up program. By Mikhail Sundust Gila River Indian News Nearly 30 high school students participated in the Gila River Indian Community Close Up program this year. Michael Preston, Akimel O’odham / Pee Posh Youth Council Coordinator, organized the annual event, which was sponsored by the Youth Council. The youth, many of whom sacrificed precious spring break hours, spent March 19 – 21 learning about GRIC’s government. Close Up facilitator Devin Redbird of District 7 is the youngest community member to have served on the Community Council and imparted first-hand knowledge to participants. The Close Up program is highly interactive. On the first day, the program appointed a mock council. The students also elected a “Close Up Governor” and lieutenant governor, Alexander Pablo and Cheyenne Jackson respectively. Lessons on legislation and executive decisionmaking are based on true-to-life scenarios using real-life financial figures to stimulate critical thinking skills in students. Students also engaged in a mock trial as prosecutors, defendants and jury members. The Close Up program also featured cultural components. Gila River Health Care’s Ginger Martin spoke to the young men and women about Gila River’s history and bifurcated cultural composition on Tuesday and on Thursday Joyce Hughes gave the students a lesson in the O’odham language. time,” she said. She said the most important thing to do in preparing for the pageant is “trying to find the people who are most supportive in your life, that’s what you have to go with.” Both Hendricks and Owens cite their fathers as being especially helpful and encouraging in preparing for the competition. The events of the week leading up to the pageant passed unseen by the 600-plus audience members in attendance that night. For the young ladies running, it was rigorous and exhausting and time-consuming. There were meetings and lessons and introductions and rehearsals, which often continued well after sunset. Rehearsal was a strange experience for Hendricks and Owens. Both contestants had singing parts, Hendricks in her Traditional Talent and Owens in her Contemporary Talent. The night of the show, both contestants were confident and well prepared. Owens got the crowd on their feet and clapping with a medley of popular songs, which included “No One” by Alicia Keys, “Where Is The Love” by the Black Eyed Peas and “I Won’t Give Up” by Jason Mraz. Hendricks’s Contemporary Talent combined poetry and photography. She recited a poem that she wrote about her ancestral lands while a slideshow of photos she took around Gila River played beside her. The poem was born of her observances on the roads that cross through Gila River. She said when she drives, she tries to “picture everything without the buildings. ‘What did it look like?’ And then, hearing stories, then you know, ‘okay this is what it must have looked like back in the day. So that’s what helped me to see the greater beauty in our Community, [writing] that poem.” Hendricks is working and attending Central Arizona College part-time. She plans to transfer to Arizona State University, where she will study public administration. Owens also works part-time and is finishing her senior year of high school and plans to attend ASU next semester. Both Hendricks and Owens said being a part of the Akimel O’odham / Pee Posh Youth Council helped them to be more comfortable with public speaking. Hendricks said, “I definitely give a lot of praise to Youth Council because I learned so much. It has just given me so many opportunities and it’s . . . really great.” Miss Gila River is a symbol of peace, prosperity and progress for the Community. “Miss Gila River,” said Owens, “is put into the Community to show there are strong women throughout our Community and it’s an example for all of them.” Hendricks is already thinking beyond the parade waves and ceremonial visits. The former Youth Council President and one-time Governor’s Assistant Intern is geared up to show the world that Gila River is, at its core, a hospitable and friendly place on political and economic levels. Hendricks looks forward to starting a cultural gathering with singing and dancing. She wants to create a Vechij Hemajkam Ha Tash, or a Youth Day, to inspire her peers and revitalize cultural practices. She got the idea from the Tohono O’odham Youth Council, which hosts a similar event each year. The ladies agreed that it helped a lot that they knew each other going into the pageant. Hendricks said, “We knew that, regardless of who won, that we would be there for each other.” (Read more at gilariver.org.) April 2013 Page 7 Health & Wellness Addressing suicide through ASIST: A Gatekeeper Training By Michael Rhinehart Prevention Specialist, Family Planning Department Gila River Health Care/ Behavioral Health Every day in Arizona, at least eight people try to take their lives, and every year nearly 3,000 individuals are hospitalized from attempted suicide; most are between the ages of 15 and 19 years old. Every year, more than 1,000 Arizona residents die by suicide. Suicide ranked as the eighth leading cause of death for American Indians/Alaska Natives of all ages. Suicide is ranked as the second leading cause of death for American Indian/Alaska Natives for those from age 10-34. Suicide rate for American Indians/Alaska Natives is 10 times higher than the overall U.S. rate. The Gila River Prevention Coalition, in partnership with Gila River Health Care Corporation, is committed to addressing the issue of suicide through various prevention efforts. One effective prevention strategy is gatekeeper training. In suicide prevention, a gatekeeper refers to someone who is a ‘safety net’ for people who may be feeling vulnerable. Gatekeepers can be parents, family members, teachers, youth workers, or any Community member who is willing to learn about the warning signs of suicide and basic suicide intervention skills. An evidence based approach to suicide prevention is a gatekeeper training called ASIST (applied suicide intervention skills training). This 2-day training is a hands-on, interactive experience that helps participants become ready, willing, and able to perform suicide first aid intervention. Some core beliefs of the asist model include the following: -Suicide is a community health problem – everyone can help. -Suicide can be prevented – it’s possible to save lives. Through role-play exercises, video presentations, and dynamic group discussions, the stigma of suicide is reduced and common misconceptions of suicide are discussed. A common myth is that “talking about suicide may give someone the idea.” The truth is that bringing up the subject of suicide gives the person a sense of relief; discussing it openly allows the person the opportunity of sharing feelings and developing hope. Through collaboration with the Gila River Prevention Coalition and its many grant partners, monthly ASIST trainings are offered, free to the community, so that everyone can become gatekeepers for suicide prevention. The goal of this workshop is that participants will leave the training with a sense of hope that suicide can be prevented, and the confidence needed to recognize someone at risk for suicide and to connect them to community resources. For more information about upcoming asist trainings, please contact the Gila River Prevention Program at (520) 562-3321x7031 some could be more harmful than others. Make sure containers are not leaking and that they are sealed tight. We want you and your loved ones safe and to have a better understanding of what chemicals are and used around your home, keeping track of what is in and around your home is key to keeping your home safe. You can find more information on how to properly dispose or recycle these items by contacting www.earth911.com or calling the Gila River Indian Community Department of Environmental Quality at 520-562-2234. Also any information regarding Bulk Trash pickup in the Community contact Gila River Indian Community Department of Public Works at 520-562-3343. Use caution around household hazards Submitted by Chemical Tribal Emergency Response Commission (CTERC) Chemical hazards are not limited to industrial facilities. Their are often dangerous chemicals in every home. They may be found in and around your home or work areas in the forms of pesticides, old lead car batteries, oil and gasoline, or paints and solvents. They may be found under the kitchen or bathroom sinks in the form of cleansers or drain openers, or stored elsewhere in the home. A leak or spill of these chemicals can pose a health hazard, especially, if a lack of ventilation causes the level of chemical fumes to rise to unhealthful levels. Remember that firefighters and emergency responders have to take special precautions and wear protective equipment (respirators and eye protection) when dealing with chemical fumes in confined spaces. Your home or work area is no different. Incompatible chemicals may also mix together and create toxic fumes, or even start a fire. Take some time to determine what chemical hazards are present in the home. Make sure that they are out of the reach of children, and that incompatible chemicals are not stored next to each other, you want to make sure that you read the labels of household chemicals being used, Knock! Knock! Who’s there? Submitted by Soyet Antone Community Educational Specialist The Community Health Education program is currently delivering blue bags of health information directly to community member’s homes by way of conducting our door-to-door campaign, which is one of our innovative approaches to increasing health awareness and health promotion throughout Gila River Indian community. Each bag contains seasonal and year round relevant health information such as the following: • Influenza Brochure • West Nile Virus Brochure • RMSF Brochure • Diabetes 101 Brochure • Diabetes Prevention Flyer & Resources • Respiratory Syncytial Virus Flyer • Asthma Flyer • Program Calendar of Events • Bed Bug Awareness Brochure • Portion Control Flyer • Smoking Flyer • Importance of Water Flyer • Nutrition Flyer • Heart Care Awareness Flyer • White Tepary Soup Recipe • Other HRD Program Information It is our hope these helpful health flyers and brochures will increase your awareness and knowledge of these health topics and help you in making informed decisions to protect yourself and your family from some of these preventable health issues. In addition, we also distribute information on program services provided by other Health Resource Department programs such as the Genesis Diabetes Prevention program, Environmental Health Services, and Animal Control program. Lastly, we encourage you to challenge your mind and body by coming out to participate in our health presentations and activities held in each district throughout the year. Do it! Just for the Health of It! If you would like more information you can contact the Community Health Education Program at our Sacaton office (520) 5625100 or Komatke office (520) 550-8000 Page 8 April 2013 Culture & History SPECIAL SERIES BY BILLY ALLEN A’AGA SOMETHING TO BE TOLD OR TALKED ABOUT During my youth, two sports ruled: basketball and baseball. The baseball season usually began with a Memorial Day tournament. We sweated through Fourth of July games, and the season ended with a Labor Day tournament. During blazing afternoon heat, GRIC “boys of summer” played on. Pete Rose of the Cincinnati Reds spoke of his love for the game, “I’d walk through hell in a gasoline suit to play baseball.” I wonder if he could have hung with us rez boys who dreamed of playing in the majors, not realizing one of our own – Burdette Morago – came very close. His father Bill was a brother to Jay, Edith, Dallas, Peggy, Gwen and Bruce Morago of Sacaton. As a child, Burdette spent summers in Sacaton, biking or walking to the old Santan Day School baseball field to find a game. At the age of 13, he played shortstop for the Ajo Braves, one of the all-Native community teams. He was a three-sport letterman for Ajo High School, earning varsity letters all four years along with All-State honors in basketball and baseball. With $400 dollars in his pocket, Burdette left to attend the University of Arizona and become part of Wildcat baseball lore. As a member of the freshmen baseball team, he watched the Wildcat varsity finish second in the 1955 College World Series. For the 1956 campaign, Frank Sancet, legendary U of A baseball coach said, “Burdette Morago is the top man at the present. He’s one of the fastest pitchers we have.” But, “You win some, you lose some.” When he pitched against the Wisconsin Badgers he gave up a school-record 19 hits and lost 14 to 7. In his sophomore year, Burdette was honored for his 8-2 pitching record and a 3.54 earned run average. As a junior, the “Bird Man” beat the Texas Longhorns 5 to 2, punching the Wildcats ticket to the College World Series. As a senior, Burdette burned my beloved Sun Devils with a shutout plus got two hits. When regional playoffs were played in Texas, Marty Hurd (African American) Masumi Ikeda (Japanese American) and Burdette (O’otham and Crow,) were not allowed to stay within Austin city limits. They had to stay in a motel outside of town, eat in cafeterias before opening hours, or were given boxed lunches to eat away from the restaurant. Burdette remembers there was a separate seating section for “dark skinned” spectators at the ballpark. Later, Burdette pitched the Wildcats to a win over Oklahoma State University at the College World Series, but 3 days later the Wildcats came in second once more when the Cowboys rallied through the losing bracket. (The Wildcats would win national titles in 1976, 1980, 1986 and 2012.) Willie Stargell, of the Pittsburgh Pirates once said, “When they start the game, they don’t yell, ‘Work Ball.’ They say, ‘Play ball!’” And Birdie could play! While pitching for the Casa Grande Cotton Kings, a semi-pro team, he got two or their three wins in the National Championship Baseball SemiPro Tournament in Wichita, Kan. and was named an All-American pitcher. This despite breaking a bone in his pitching hand five weeks earlier and having been out of the cast only three weeks before the tournament. Kwi Hiosik Mashath The name for this month means ‘mesquite tree flower month” and refers to the hio’hosig (flowers) appearing on the kwi. The trees we are most familiar with are called Velvet Mesquite and the milga:n name refers to the velvety texture of the leaf underside. In days gone by, kwi have been known to grow 30 to 50 feet in height and several old stumps can still be found that are several feet in diameter. Kwi is the O’otham tree of life because it provides food, construction material and wood that was used to make many tools. There are five stages of growth for the kwi that are named in O’otham ñeo’ok. The first stage called kwi i’ivakithag happened last month with the appearance of the new buds. This is closely followed by kwi hulkathaj, which happens when the flower buds have formed and are still green. The next stage of growth is called kwi hiosig which is when the flowers fully form on the kwi. After the blossoms are pollinated by honey bees the viohog (mesquite bean pods) form and is bith ki: kosin u:s kusal chu’i chepa kua’ag vath’o Burdette helped the Cotton Kings win 10 straight Arizona Championships. In January 1959, Burdette signed a MLB contract to pitch for the Boston Red Sox. Two weeks later, he blew out his knee and needed a year to rehabilitate. On his return try out, he was assigned to the minors. A major league career wasn’t to be. But like Pete Rose, his love for the game continued. He was a key member of the Sacaton Athletic Club baseball teams. A baseball highlight was the August Salt 1 called kwi viohog. For several weeks the viohog grow from tender green pods to full ripe maturity filled with sweet pulp, juices, seeds and plant parts. When the viohog reach maturity the O’otham call this stage of growth viohog ba:kam meaning that the viohog is ready to be harvested. Some trees produce plain yellow to almost white bean pods while others produce pods with reddish or purplish stripes. O’otham families had their own areas staked out and often harvested from the same trees year after year. After harvesting the viohog are taken home and spread on a canvas or hard ground to dry in the sun. After drying for several days the viohog is stored away as a food source for use throughout the year. Some families will wait and let the viohog fall and ripen on the ground before picking them up to take home. For this month’s crossword puzzle we look at the things that are made using the kwi and the food it provides. See how they fit together in the puzzle on the right. cheth’thondag olas ki: vav’nadag Burdette Morago circa 1950s during his baseball career. Photo courtesy of Burdette Morago and originally credited to Hunter’s from Alpine, Texas. koli ushap viohog 4 5 - River Indian Baseball tournament. Native teams throughout the southwest found out Burdette was still a formidable pitcher. Good natured Burdette resides in Santan and his good health allows him to follow all sports. When you see him around the rez, shake his hand, ask about his Wildcats, and plan on hearing something interesting. Questions, comments or mistakes can be emailed to the author at hestasp5@gmail.com. Solutions on page 12 2 3 ’ 7 ’ 6 - 8 9 - 10 ’ ’ 11 ’ 12 - Across Down 1. Sandwich House 4. House/Ramada Rafter (horizontal support) 6. Mesquite Sap 8. Fence 10. House/Ramada Beam (upright support) 12. Storage House 2. Firewood 3. Mortar 5. Mesquite Flour 7. Wooden Spoon 9. Ramada 11. Round House April 2013 Page 9 Youth & Elder From Page 1 Unity Run binds runners together during journey Joshua Jovanelly/GRIN Jonah Ray (right), one of the Unity Run founders, leads runners during a stop in District 5. and old chose instead to symbolically stitch these lands back together again by running proudly across them. The 18th annual weeklong Unity Run kicked off March 17 in San Xavier, a village in the Tohono O’odham Nation, and ended March 23 at S’vegium Tho’ag, or Red Mountain, in Salt River. The run encourages youth from all tribes with O’otham ties to hold on to traditional teachings that are in danger of slipping away by reminding them of ancient bonds impervious to artificial borders. “I would say the biggest thing that binds us together is our relationship,” said Jonah Ray of the Salt River Pima-Maricopa Indian Community, one of the founders of the run. “We were all one people at one time.” The stated goal of the event is to foster the unity of all O’otham people, despite the geopolitical separations that have come to divide them. Their himdag, or way of life, refuses to acknowledge these divisions. The vehicle for this powerful message is long-distance running, an expert skill of O’otham ancestors. The runners complete the journey in a relay. Because the distance across the reservations is long, runners step in for one another at different intervals. Resting runners travel in cars and trucks until they are ready to go on foot again. As the group made stops in villages of the four sister tribes, they received meals and hospitality from their hosts. At the end of the day, they set up camp and gathered in a circle around the campsite to listen to the teachings of their respective host nation. Each day is governed by strict rules and procedures. Wakeup is at 4 a.m., when beds and tents are rolled up and packed into the vans for storage. Cell phones, mp3 players, cameras or any other trappings of modern technology are not allowed. Respect to the teachings, to the elders and to each other is paramount. Runners carry staffs, which, according to Ray, become part of their bearers during the journey. The various staffs represent families, elders or veterans. Many were adorned with eagle feathers. “They’re like another person and that’s the reason that we take care of them,” Ray said. “They’ve run this far, so now we have to water them, feed them.” Ray held a bunch of neatly fanned eagle feathers, which carried significance similar to that of the staffs. In O’otham tradition, the eagle carries prayers to the Creator and watches from high above, as the Earth turns counter clockwise. At each Unity Run stop, the runners gathered in a circular procession, mimicking the same counter-clockwise rotation. When the group stopped at the GRIC Elderly Center in District 5, Ray led the march as the Unity runners encircled the front parking lot. Two singers stood in the middle, singing traditional songs to the rhythm of rattling gourds. More than 50 participants joined the circle, many of them teenagers dressed in running shorts and athletic shoes. Before heading inside for lunch, Ray directed those carrying staffs to lean them delicately against the building, and placed water bottles beneath them so the staffs could also be replenished from the wearisome journey. Wearing dark sunglasses and speaking behind a bushy gray mustache, Ray spoke in unrushed, soft tones about the Unity Run’s goal of reconnecting the youth with their culture. “Our young people don’t understand their tradition, their culture, their language, their songs, their stories,” Ray said. “So what’s been happening, one of these days they’re going to throw a book in front of us and say, ‘This is your language, this is how you’re going to talk, all this.’ But what’s going to happen to our stories, to our legends, our creation stories when we forget the language?” District 5 Councilmember Brenda Robertson, a major proponent of language preservation, was one of the elders to welcome the runners. She said their actions paid homage to an O’otham tradition. “I was told by my parents, long many years ago, that that’s what our people did — they ran,” Robertson said during lunch. “They didn’t have horses, they didn’t have wagons, they didn’t have anything, so they had to just run.” Billy Allen, a retired teacher who grew up nearby in D5, told the young runners: “Just remember that you’re in the heart of O’otham land.” Allen encouraged the youth to grow from the challenge of the Unity Run and utilize the lesson to persevere as their lives move forward. “Gain strength from this thing…” Allen said. “Come Monday and the rest of your life, you get up and you do things, especially when you don’t feel like it.” After being recharged by food and water, it would soon be time for the runners to move on to their next stop in District 4, and eventually on to the completion of the run a few days later. But that was not the true end of the journey. The spirit and lessons of the Unity Run are meant to carry on. “All this teaching takes place so that they can remember,” Ray said. “[They] carry that home with them, and to their homes, their schools, their community, their churches, whatever. To keep it going, because that’s who we are as O’otham.” D4 Elder remembers early days of Mul-Chu-Tha By Joshua Jovanelly Gila River Indian News The Mul-Chu-Tha Fair and Rodeo is now a cornerstone event of the Gila River Indian Community, one that Community members and surrounding neighbors eagerly anticipate each spring. It’s a big show now — a three-day festival with rodeos, barbeques, a battle of the bands, a carnival and more. The 51st annual Mul-Chu-Tha that happened in March used $160,000 of tribal funding, according to Recreation Coordinator Amber Childs. But its beginnings are much more humble. Around 1962, District 4 resident Velma Moreno — then Velma Mix then — was part of the original group that planned what became known as the MulChu-Tha fair. Seeking perspective on the history of this great Community tradition, I spoke to Velma, 79, about her recollections of what took place more than half a century ago. The following is the history of the Mul-Chu-Tha in Velma’s words (our conversation has been condensed and edited for clarity): “I wrote everything down on a paper yesterday, sitting here trying to remember. That’s way back, and I can’t rememright now is me, ber everything… Mary Blackwater “We wanted to do and Julia. something for the youth “We sent out because the youth were word that people getting in trouble — not could come by and as bad as today, but they tell us something were. that they might “We had no money like to see the fair whatsoever, no help. But named. My in-law, we all went out and solican old man, he was ited stores around us, and probably in his 70s, companies: the farms, the he’s the one that store at the time and Basaid, ‘Why don’t sha’s and all those little you guys just call stores in Chandler. And we it Mul-Chu-Tha?’ made it. Do you know what “We met, meetings that means? Races, after meetings and we did many races. That’s decide to have something what some of the like a little fair to try to Pimas called the raise money to try to build Arizona State Fair, a swimming pool. (FundMul-Chu-Tha. Being and insurance concause there were all cerns prevented the group kinds of races like Courtesy of CPAO foot from financing the pool, races, horse but Sacaton eventually Cover of one of the early Mul-Chu-Tha programs from and buggy races, built one). But our hearts 1964. and ostrich races. tee: Sam Thomas was elected were still there to do that. “We had our “I had one of my sons was a chairman; Jay Morago was the first fair at the ball field. It was baby then and I had to take him to vice chair; Rogene Jackson and the Pima Central ball field then. all the meetings because he was Julia Nasewytewa; Mitch Miles; That’s where we had our first nursing. He was probably about Isabelle Alice; me; Mary Black- fair and it was a very good fair, water; Beverly Jones; Frank it turned out real good. We had six months old. “These are the names of the Reed. Most of these people are people that had booths all around people that were on the commit- gone. The only ones that are alive there. Then we had a queen con- test. Wilma Thurman was our first Miss Gila River. That’s where Miss Gila River started. Then we had a wood chopping contest, both men and women, and a popover contest. We had horseshoe. “We thought it would be nice if we could keep it going. But we had to experience what it’s like and it was a lot of work. A lot of work. Other people got in and helped, even if they weren’t on the committee, we encouraged them to help. So we had good help at that time, people donated their time. They didn’t have to be paid like they do now. “I think we did it for, maybe four years, then the tribe started to help us or we asked for help. The tribe has been doing it now ever since. “Everybody was very glad that something like this went on. There were a lot of people at that ball field. Then they had the rodeos after that when the tribe took over and some of the contests also. “I just go to the parade [now]. It’s very different now. It’s not like when we were running it. “But it was a lot of fun. We had a lot of fun doing it. I’m glad it’s still here 51 years later.” Page 10 Gila River Indian News April 2013 April 2013 Gila River Indian News Page 11 Page 12 Gila River Indian News April 2013 GRIC DEQ spreading Earth Day Message Earth is Day Everyday April 22 2013 10 a.m-2 p.m. Ira H.Hayes Memorial Park-Sacaton Fo r a ny m o re i n fo r m at i o n p l e a s e c a l l : D E PA R T M E N T O F E N V I R O N M E N TA L Q UA L I T Y 520.562.2234 For a number of years, the Community’s Department of Environmental Quality (DEQ) has celebrated Earth Day to raise public awareness about environmental issues locally, nationally and globally. We invite you to be a part of Earth Day, and learn what the various DEQ programs are doing to protect the Community’s resources. Help write many more victories and successes into our history, and build a clean, healthy and safe environment for generations to come! Submitted by Department of Environmental Quality (DEQ) Each year, Earth Day—April 22—marks the anniversary of what many consider the birth of the modern environmental movement in 1970. At the time, Americans were pumping leaded gas into large automobiles with V8 engines. Industry belched out smoke and sludge with little fear of legal consequences or bad press, and air pollution was commonly accepted as the smell of prosperity. Although mainstream America remained oblivious to environmental concerns, the stage had been set for change. The idea for Earth Day came to founder Gaylord Nelson, then a U.S. Senator from Wisconsin, after witnessing the ravages of the 1969 massive oil spill in Santa Barbara, California. Inspired by the student anti-war movement, he realized that if he could infuse that energy with an emerging public consciousness about air and water pollution, it would force environmental protection onto the national political agenda. As a result, on April 22, 20 million Americans took to the streets, parks, and auditoriums to demonstrate for a healthy, sustainable environment in massive coast-to-coast rallies. Thousands of colleges and universities organized protests against the deterioration of the environment. Groups that had been fighting against oil spills, polluting factories and power plants, raw sewage, toxic dumps, pesticides, freeways, the loss of wilderness, and the extinction of wildlife suddenly realized they shared common values. Earth Day 1970 achieved a Baseball brought hope to internees Mikhail Sundust/GRIN Sacaton Middle School students and GRIC elders met with author Bill Staples and former internees and baseball players Tets Furukawa, Masao Iriyama and Kenso Zenimura to talk about baseball and life in the camps. By Mikhail Sundust Gila River Indian News Kenichi Zenimura was a baseball prodigy. He never played in the MLB but from the early 1900s to his death in 1968, Zeni (as his teammates called him) became a revered player, manager and scout and the leading figure who made the classic American pastime an international one. In his 2011 biography, “Kenichi Zenimura, Japanese American Baseball Pioneer,” historian Bill Staples, Jr. recounts with enthusiasm the details of Zenimura’s life and legacy. Zeni’s story stretches from Hawaii to California to Japan but the events of Staples’s book focus on his time as a detainee at the Japanese Internment Camp within the Gila River Indian Community. After the Dec. 7, 1941 attack on Pearl Harbor, the United States government decided to move thousands of American citizens of Japanese descent into internment camps in the west coast region. Within months of being transferred to Gila River, detainees built a baseball field and started playing ball. “Ultimately, these diamonds were more than just a place to play baseball,” writes Staples, “they represented the hope of internees. ‘It was a great hardship for everyone being in the camp because nobody had anything,’ said Kiyoko Zenimura (wife of Kenichi). ‘Building the ballpark really saved us. It kept the spirits of the people up and helped everyone to stay positive and not become angry and short tempered.’” Zenimura built a championship-grade team at Gila River. They competed against teams across Arizona, and some from out of state. On March 7, 1943, the baseball field adjacent to the Gila River camp’s Block 28 was renamed Zenimura Field. It has been 70 years since that dedication. Earlier this month, Zenimura’s son, Kenso Zenimura, and two other former camp internees, Tets Furukawa and Masao Iriyama, threw the ceremonial first pitch at the March 7 Oakland Athletics-Seattle Mariners Cactus League game at Phoenix Municipal Stadium. On March 15, the trio visited the Gila River Indian Community. They met Sacaton Middle School students at the Huhugam Heritage Center. Staples conducted a historical presentation and a Q&A session with the former baseball players. rare political alignment, enlisting support from Republicans and Democrats, rich and poor, urban and rural Americans. The first Earth Day led to the creation of the United States Environmental Protection Agency and the passage of the Clean Air, Clean Water, and Endangered Species Acts. In 1990 Earth Day went global, mobilizing 200 million people in 141 countries, and lifting environmental issues onto the world stage. Earth Day 1990 gave a huge boost to recycling efforts worldwide and helped pave the way for the 1992 United Nations Earth Summit in Rio de Janeiro. It also prompted President Bill Clinton to award Senator Nelson the Presidential Medal of Freedom (1995) -- the highest honor given to civilians in the United States -for his role as Earth Day founder. The fight for a clean environment continues in a climate of increasing urgency, as the ravages of climate change become more evident every day. GRIC Recycles In 2011, GRIC began offering residential recycling service to Districts 2 &3 as part of a pilot project funded by a grant from the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency. From May 2011 to January 2013, the two districts have recycled over 260,000 pounds (130 tons) of recyclable material. On average, 13,000 pounds of material is collected each month. By the end of this year the Department of Environmental Quality Recycling Program, working in conjunction with the GRIC Public Works Department, anticipates expanding recycling services to all districts within the Community. CIVIL SUMMONS 1. HAILEY ENOS Review Hearing Case #: J-11-0093/0094/0095/0096/0097 Court Date: May 10, 2013 at 9 a.m. in Courtroom #2, 1st Floor. 2. CHRIS ALLEN Review Hearing Case #: J-11-0093/0094/0095/0096/0097 Court Date: May 10, 2013 at 9 a.m. in Courtroom #2, 1st Floor. 3. ANTHONY ALLEN SR. Review Hearing Case #: J-11-0093/0094/0095/0096/0097 Court Date: May 10, 2013 at 9 a.m. in Courtroom #2, 1st Floor. 4. RILE HOWARD Review Hearing Case #: J-11-0093/0094/0095/0096/0097 Court Date: May 10, 2013 at 9 a.m. in Courtroom #2, 1st Floor. 5. GAIL BROWN Review Hearing Case#: J-10-0121/0122 Court Date: May 14, 2013 at 9 a.m. in Courtroom #2, 1st floor. HAILEY ENOS GUARDIANSHIP HEARING Case#: J-130016/0017/0018/0019/0020 Court Date: APRIL 26,2013 @9:00AM in Courtroom #2, 1st floor CHRIS ALLEN GUARDIANSHIP HEARING Case #: J-130016/0017/0018/0019/0020 Court Date: APRIL 26,2013 @9:00AM in Courtroom #2, 1st floor ANTHONY ALLEN GUARDIANSHIP HEARING Case#: J-130016/0017/0018/0019/0020 Court Date: APRIL 26,2013 @9:00AM in Courtroom #2, 1st floor RYLE HOWARD GUARDIANSHIP HEARING Case#: J-130016/0017/0018/0019/0020 Court Date: APRIL 26,2013 @9:00AM in Courtroom #2, 1st floor CONTACT: Salt River Pima-Maricopa Community Court 10,005 E. Osborn Rd. Building 23 Scottsdale, Arizona 85256 Phone: 480-362-6315 Crossword Puzzle Solutions from Page 8 1 b 4 v a 8 k 5 v i t h - 2 k ’ n a d a i ’ o a h g o l i g c c g 6 u e t h u ’ ’ o u: s e h u h ’ t h 11 o s n d l 12 k l a o s k i: a i n a p a k a h h 7 9 h i 3 v - 10 i: u g April 2013 Gila River Indian News Page 13 Page 14 Gila River Indian News April 2013 April 2013 Gila River Indian News Page 15 Driver takes pride in his work Roberto A. Jackson/GRIN Bonaventure Pablo parlayed his work experience into a thriving business. By Roberto A. Jackson Gila River Indian News Bonaventure Pablo walked into Pima Leasing & Financing Corp. in 2012 with a business plan and 20 years experience in tow. He had the connections to start his business in non-emergency medical transportation but needed structure, financing and capital. The non-emergency medical transportation industry is, according to Pablo, “fast-paced,” and it serves a critical need in the community. “The main goal is to get the clients on time from home to their appointment and also the return trip,” he said. Pablo’s experience as a nonemergency driver goes back two decades. He’s driven clients all over Arizona and accumulated knowledge of the business along the way. “I was anxious to get started,” said Pablo, District 2. Pablo’s outlook on business isn’t always about the proverbial “bottom line.” Pablo sees the other side of the dispatch. Pablo does his best to keep their focus on their health so they don’t have to worry about a ride. “There’s a lot of heart in this business,” Pablo said. Pablo’s vision as an entrepreneur was simple: “My main goal was to come back and start a business to help my people.” Pima Leasing & Financing Corp. Executive Director Stephen Puhr was impressed by Pablo’s expertise and genuine compassion. “Bonaventure takes an awful lot of pride in the work he does,” said Puhr. Pablo and his business partner Terrance Johns were working with an outside company but felt compelled to strike out on their own. An advertisement in the Gila River Indian News led them to the Pima Leasing office near the Wild Horse Pass Hotel & Casino. Pablo explained his goals to Puhr. Then Puhr and his staff outlined a plan for Pablo to obtain a loan. “It was nothing but professionalism from their end,” said Pablo of his first encounter with Pima Leasing. Pablo had the connections with health care caseworkers and clients but he needed his own vehicle and he needed to register as a provider with the Arizona Health Care Cost Containment System (AHCCCS). A non-emergency medical transportation business requires licenses and insurance that Pablo was able to obtain with the help of Pima Leasing. After helping Pablo with his business plan and other financial services, to Pablo’s surprise the loan process went relatively quick. Within a month and a half Pablo and his partner secured a two-year loan. Pablo is one of many transportation providers for Gila River Behavioral Health Services. He provides transportation for clients to Behavioral Health programs or appointments. Transportation is authorized by case managers for counseling sessions, family support, group counseling, case planning meetings, child and family team meetings and adult recovery team meetings. In order to request transportation, clients provide their information and the date and times of the appointment to their case managers. They also include locations and any other special requirements they need like wheelchairs. The case manager then contacts the provider with the necessary information. In Pablo’s case, he takes that information and processes it and sets up a dispatch route. Pablo estimates that he makes approximately 30 trips a week and now he can help his community doing the job he loves. “I just needed the finances and Pima Leasing was the answer to the call,” said Pablo. Mikhail Sundust/GRIN Above: Delegates from O’odham villages in Mexico visit Gov. Mendoza and Community members at the Huhugam Heritage Center. Below: Lt. Gov. Stephen Roe Lewis greets the visitors during the Mul-Chu-Tha parade. Pimas de México By GRIN Staff Among the guests at MulChu-Tha parade was a special group from south of the border. As part of the Traditional Cultural Exchange program, Gov. Gregory Mendoza invited a group of 13 delegates from Mexican O’odham villages to attend the Mul-ChuTha fair and parade. The group included traditional dancers, musicians, and governors from various Mexican villages. The delegation also toured the Huhugam Heritage Center on March 15 for a reception and language exchange session. “The Community is happy you’re here during the time of celebration [during] the Mul-ChuTha,” Mendoza said. Mikhail Sundust/GRIN Mendez Auto Sales We Finance 1315 N Pinal Ave Casa Grande, AZ 85122 520-836-7550 mendezautocg@yahoo.com Easy Qualifying Se Habla Español Nelda Martinez No credit, Bad credit, Bankruptcy, NO PROBLEM at Mendez Auto Sales your job is your credit We welcome first time buyers and paid off or nearly paid off trade-ins Frank Mendez ‘00 Mercury Villager ‘04 Dodge Dakota ‘00 Chevy Blazer ‘03 Pontiac Grand Am ‘00 Honda Accord ‘00 GMC Yukon ‘01 Dodge Caravan ‘01 Chevy Tahoe ‘01 Ford Expedition ‘00 Chevy Suburban Buy Here WE ALSO OFFER LOW DOWN PAYMENTS AND GREAT CASH DEALS!!! Pay Here Page 16 Gila River Indian News April 2013 Tribal Education Department “Maschahamdud a Jeniktha” Gila River moves toward Common Core State Standards By Mikhail Sundust Gila River Indian News In an effort to enhance the level of K-12 education in America, 45 states, including Arizona, will soon adopt new, more rigorous, educational standards. Making the transition to the Common Core Standards is a major change for students and educators alike. “It’s a completely different way of teaching,” said Leatrice Manny in her third grade classroom at Sacaton Elementary School. “It’s different in that, the questioning is more openended.” For example, rather than have the students memorize a multiplication table, now when she asks her students what five times six is, she’ll tell a story like, “You are planting a garden, there are five rows, in each row you are planting six flowers. How many flowers are you planting?” This gets the kids to think more critically about the mathematical operations that underlie the seemingly basic question. The Common Core State Standards Initiative is not a federal program; rather it is a stateled effort. Four years ago, the National Governors Association – in collaboration with the Council of Chief State School Officers – decided to develop and pursue a common core of math and English standards. As a result, a number of states used the Common Core State Standards as the new basis for their education systems in their applications for Race to the Top, a federal education-funding program. Arizona has committed to Mikhail Sundust/GRIN Leatrice Manny converses with a group of her 3rd grade students about a descriptive narrative they just read. The students work on literacy comprehension through a compare and contrast exercise. make the transition by the 201415 school year but many schools and teachers, like Manny and Budwill at Sacaton Elementary, have already made headway implementing the new standards to some degree. “The benefit of doing it early,” said Manny, “is the third graders coming in next year or the fourth graders coming in next year . . . they’ll be a little more prepared for it . . . because it is definitely a huge shift.” It also gives the instructors time to adjust to the new method. The Common Core Standards are designed around and lay out guidelines for two main subject areas: mathematics and the English Language Arts (ELA). The driving idea behind them, however, is to increase student literacy – here meaning, “competence or knowledge in a specified area” – in all fields of study. Essentially, Common Core endeavors to change how teachers teach and how students learn across the board. For math and ELA, it may be better to think of the Common Core Standards as “measurable goals.” Because literacy and comprehension are pushed to the top of the priority list – over content, quantity and memorization – the standards (goals) may be the same everywhere but the curriculum (what is being studied, the in-class activities which determine how a student reaches those goals) is developed at the district level, not the national or state level. Common Core does not set new standards specific to science or social studies but it does affect how these classes will be taught. For one thing, it opens doors to a whole variety of possible new topics in classes like history and social studies. Debora Norris, the Director of Indian Education at the Arizona Department of Education, and Common Core experts from ADE met with tribal education department leaders from several Arizona tribes this March at the Huhugam Heritage Center to discuss Arizona’s Common Core Standards (ACCS). “One of the things we’re committed to doing,” said Norris, “is looking at the unique educational needs of Native American students and their parents and their communities. “One of the challenges we have,” she said, “is making sure that, in this transition, we retain and increase the use of Native American content,” such as primary documents, like treaties and constitutions, as well as culturally significant elements like traditional stories, geography and language. “All of these things can have some tie to students’ daily experience as tribal members.” She said many “tribal education departments have already developed curricula based off of their own particular tribal histories or philosophies.” The challenge is to “realign it and make it useful in the context of the Common Core Standards. Our history is not going to change but the way that we teach it is going to change.” The Gila River Indian Community Tribal Education Department is one of those departments currently developing a curriculum for Gila River schools. When Mario Molina, Gila River Indian Community Department of Education Director, heard about Common Core and the opportunities it offers, he jumped on it. He envisions a day when teachers and students are using videos, the internet and interactive media to learn about O’odham and Pee Posh history, tradition, culture and science. “For instance,” he said, “when they’re talking about what the Egyptians were doing in 300 B.C., can we give them the equivalent of what was happening here in 300 B.C. with the Huhugam? When we’re talking about government, shouldn’t we be talking about what we have here in Gila River? When we talk about geography, well how did our map come to be?” By making the lessons more relevant to GRIC students, GRIC TED thinks the lessons will have a deeper, longer-lasting impact. So, why Common Core? According to www.commoncoreworks.org, the Common Core Standards set “consistent, strong, clear benchmarks” that were developed specifically to make students college- and career-ready “no matter the zipcode, language or race.” Furthermore, because the standards are internationally benchmarked, students will be better prepared to compete on a global level. Finally, because the new standards are more universally accepted, “even though local communities will still design their own curriculum, with the same rules, everyone can compete on the same [level],” and be more equally represented in state-to-state comparisons. Some valuable resources to learn more about Common Core Standards and Arizona Common Core Standards can be found at: www.corestandards.org www.azed.gov/commoncore www.commoncore.org perspective in the environment and not degrading our resources for future generations,” Mariella said. “Althea will bring her insights and skills now to that role, and that’s exactly what I was hoping to help accomplish by coming here to ASU.” Walker applied for and accepted an internship at Mariella’s old employer: Gila River DEQ. The internship involves expanding the Comm u n i t y ’s recycling program. Meanw h i l e , H u m prheys is Jacob Byk/Daily Kent Stater preparing Victoria Humphreys for an internship on the other side of the country. Humprheys hopes the eight-week internship will allow her to meet potential future employers in Washington D.C. that she can call up after she graduates in December. She and her mother, Stacey, moved away from the Phoenix area, but have returned multiple times to visit family and turn in paperwork at Student Services. Humphreys has utilized the scholarship offered to Gila River Community members to cover her final three years at Kent State, and she plans on continuing her education even further. “I don’t know what I would do without [the scholarship],” Humphreys said in a phone interview. “My teachers constantly remind me how stupid it would be if I don’t take advantage of getting a master’s degree and a doctorate when people would kill to be in the shoes that I am, to be able to have a scholarship like Gila River’s to go to school.” Humphreys plans on getting some job experience, hopefully in the D.C. area, before going to graduate school. She is interested in addressing issues that commonly affect Indian reservation communities. Stacey also took advantage of the scholarship, proving that it’s never too late to get a higher education. She earned her degree from Kent State in 2006. From Page 1 Students make most of scholarship communication. She is president of the Native American Student Association. She recently was selected for a summer internship through the Washington, D.C. Internship for Native Students (WINS). Walker’s grandparents, Harlan and Ruth Bohnee, live in Stotonic in District 4. She also has Nez Perce and Hopi ancestry. Humprheys’ grandfather is Robert Sanderson, who lives in Sacaton. Growing up, Walker was more familiar with her Nez Perce heritage but began feeling a pull to reconnect with her Gila River origins. “I guess it’s about identity,” Walker said. “I know who I am as a Nez Perce Indian, but I guess just trying to take it back to my [Gila River] roots: who am I, where I’m from. I don’t know where I’m going unless I know where I came from.” Pursuing higher education and strengthening her GRIC family ties went hand in hand. She attended South Mountain Community College for two years before transferring to ASU in 2011. She now lives near her mother in Gil- bert; she is able to see her grandparents on a weekly basis. When she came to the GRIN office for an interview, Walker was friendly and professional. Her face lit up when she discussed AISES, the organization she credits with much of her success. AISES’s stated goal is to increase the numbers of Native American and Alaska Natives in what are known as the STEM fields (science, technology, engineering and math). Natives are vastly underrepresented across these fields. AISES’s role is to foster interest in these subjects among Natives as well as to provide networking opportunities. Walker certainly has benefitted. She spent the summer of 2010 in Beaverton, Ore., working for the Center for Coastal Margin Observation and Prediction after meeting one of its representatives at an AISES job fair. As the AISES Region 3 representative, Walker is in charge of all AISES chapters in the Four Corner states. Her responsibilities on the ASU campus include setting up speakers, planning meetings and preparing for annual conferences — on top of the schoolwork she needs to complete to graduate in the spring of 2014. Walker was named a Sequoyah Fellow, which makes her a lifetime member of AISES and requires a lifetime commitment to the organization. “What AISES portrays is that our younger generations, when they get into college, they should be able to look up in their classroom or in the professional world and see faces like theirs…” Walker said. “We need more Native American representation in the STEM fields so that way our younger generations can look up and see our faces as Native Americans and be inspired.” Patricia Mariella, the director of the American Indian Policy Institute at ASU, has become a mentor of Walker’s. Mariella served as the executive director at Gila River’s Department of Environmental Quality for 11 years before taking the job at ASU in 2006. A major goal of hers is to see students like Walker succeed. “American Indian students and professionals bring a long-term April 2013 Gila River Indian News Page 17 Tribal Education Department “Maschahamdud a Jeniktha” Excitement at Casa Blanca Career Day Mikhail Sundust/GRIN Officer Sandy Brown (left) with K-9 Officer Lex at Casa Blanca By Joshua Jovanelly Gila River Indian News What do you want to be when you grow up? When children are asked this question, their answers are usually based on what their parents do for a living or the limited examples they see on TV. Casa Blanca Community School wants its students to see that the world is brimming with all kinds of careers. The school sought to expose students to a wider world of career opportunities by hosting its first-ever Career Day on March 14. Groups of students in Kindergarten through fourth grade rotated to a selection of 16 presenters, who talked about what their jobs involve and what education was needed to attain them. Presenters included public safety representatives from Gila River Fire and Police departments, Arizona Air National Guardsmen, a pilot, a lawyer, a barber and a veterinary assistant (as well as two Gila River Indian News re- porters). “A lot of the kids here on the reservation aren’t exposed to anything other than what they see in their immediate families or teachers,” said Nancy Rollins, the gifted teacher at Casa Blanca. “So we wanted them to know that there’s a bigger world out there and to get inspired by some of that.” Rollins, who organized the event, saw the success career day could have during her previous 10-year stint at Maricopa Elementary. She said it was “natural” to bring it to Casa Blanca and brought the idea up to Principal Eric James. “Nancy was really inspired to do this. She worked long and hard on it and she did a phenomenal job,” said James, who also served as one of the presenters that day. “I’ve seen these on a high school level, and it hasn’t been this well orchestrated, so I want to give her big, big kudos.” James immediately saw the value in prompting the young students to start thinking about career paths as early as possible. “It’s getting their brains moving,” he said. “To have these thoughts at first, second, third, fourth grade — it’s awesome.” Sgt. James Zarzyczny of the Gila River Police Department K-9 unit was perhaps the biggest hit among the students. Zarzyczny brought his four dog teams, made up of Belgian Malinois and German shepherds, which are trained to sniff out drugs and track suspects who are on the run. “I’ve been doing this for 14 years,” Zarzyczny said. “Irregardless of their age, [students are] always amazed by what the dogs can do and how they’re trained. And simply because they’re dogs.” He added: “I think that all schools should do this type of thing if they’re not already.” James and Rollins were encouraged by the students’ excitement surrounding Career Day and the level of their participation in the presentations. James expects it to carry on as an annual event, with the added bonus that it supports the new Common Core standards and college readiness. And the benefits for the kids could be life changing. “They need to be able to believe that they can make the difference,” Rollins said. “That they can dream any dream they want to dream, that they can go to be whatever they want to be, and hopefully after today they will realize that there’s some really good things out there that they can do.” Photo courtesy of Sacaton Middle School Winning Sacaton Middle School students proudly hold up their film festival award. Sacaton Middle School wins multiple awards Submitted by Sacaton Middle School Sacaton Middle School students have been working on informational and instructional videos to support Positive Behavior Interventions and Supports on their campus. Groups of students randomly chose the subject and category, then wrote scripts, created props, and acted in skits which were video-taped and submitted to Sacaton faculty, who voted after viewing all the entries. The winning entry was Mr. Babcock’s 6th graders who acted out how to “Be Safe on the Bus”. They will receive a pizza party from Sacaton Middle School Student Council. The video was then sent to KOI (Knowledge-OutcomesImpact), then submitted to a film festival for the BET-C statewide conference, to compete in the video competition. Under the supervision of Ms. Hoover and Ms. Pauga, students did their own creative work. Sacaton was the only school entered in the video contest which involved every student in the video project. This was impressive to everyone in attendance at the showing of the videos. In the “Instructional” category, Mr. Babcock’s 6th graders won an award. In the “Informational” category, the Sacaton Middle School ‘Kick Off’ video was recognized with an award. Dakota Brown, Ms. M.J. Brown’s son, did the filming and the video editing of our kick-off video. Sacaton received the Bronze Award for excellent implementation of its first year of PBIS! Teachers, students, paraprofessionals, and administrators are all involved in improving the school’s atmosphere of safety, expectations for behavior, and significantly improved student achievement. These awards indicate that there is much to be proud of! Blackwater Students Shine in Science Fair Submitted by Blackwater Community School The annual Gila River Science Fair took place on Feb. 20 at Sacaton Middle School. Blackwater students from grades 3 to 5 presented numerous individual science fair project entries into categories including Earth Science, Life Science and Physical Science. The school came away with 4 individual winners. The winners were Castor Nish, Emilie Lopez, Nicholas Juan, and Chandler Watson. We also had one 4th grade team project winner with team members Taylor Duran, Marnea Blackwater, Evelia Acuna, and Cathauli Sanchez. Blackwater Community School also did well in the class project categories with winners in Gwen Paul’s Pre K, and Science Teacher Mr. Fox’s Kindergarten and 1st grade classes. Well done to all participants in this year’s annual science fair. Page 18 Gila River Indian News April 2013 Community Council Action Sheets Wednesday, March 6, 2013 ACTION SHEET Community Council; PO Box 2138; Sacaton, Arizona 85147; Phone (520) 562-9720; Fax (520) 562-9729 CALL TO ORDER The First Regular Monthly Meeting of the Community Council held Wednesday, March 6, 2013, in the Community Council Chambers at the Governance Center in Sacaton, Arizona was called to order by presiding Chairman Lt. Governor Stephen R. Lewis at 9:10 a.m. INVOCATION Provided by Councilwoman Annette J. Stewart ROLL CALL Sign-in Sheet Circulated Executive Officers Present: Lt. Governor Stephen R. Lewis Executive Officers Absent: Governor Gregory Mendoza Council Members Present: D1- Cynthia Antone, Arzie Hogg; D2-Jewel Whitman; D3- Myron G. Schurz; D4-Jennifer Allison, Christopher Mendoza, Barney Enos, Jr.; D5-Annette J. Stewart, Brenda Roberson; D6- Albert Pablo, Terrance B. Evans; D7- Martha Miller (9:11) Council Members Absent: D3- Dale G. Enos; D4-Monica Antone; D5-Janice F. Stewart, Franklin Pablo, Sr.; D6-Anthony Villareal, Sr. APPROVAL OF AGENDA APPROVED AS AMENDED [Addendum to Agenda] INTRODUCTIONS 1. Miss Gila River and Pageant Contestants Presenter: Victoria Ayala MS. VICTORIA AYALA INTRODUCED MISS GILA RIVER TALIA ANTONE AND THE PAGEANT CONTESTANTS. MISS GILA RIVER AND EACH OF THE CONTESTANTS PROVIDED BRIEF OVERVIEWS OF THEIR BACKGROUNDS. REPORTS 1. Blackwater Community School Tribal Allocation 1st Quarter Report Presenters: Jacquelyn Power REPORT HEARD 2. Casa Blanca Community School Tribal Allocation 1st Quarter Report Presenters: Eric James REPORT HEARD 3. Gila Crossing Community School Preschool 1st Quarter Report Presenters: Jagdish Sharma, Jeff Williamson TABLED AT APPROVAL OF AGENDA 4. Ira H. Hayes High School Tribal Allocation 1st Quarter Report Presenter: Wendy Ong TABLED 5. Maricopa Village Christian School Tribal Allocation 1st Quarter Report Presenter: Arnie Suntag REPORT HEARD 6. Vechij Himdag Mashchamakud Alternative School Tribal Allocation 1st Quarter Report Presenter: Kim Franklin REPORT HEARD 7. Office Of Special Funding-FY 2012 Annual Report Presenter: Cheryl Pablo REPORT HEARD [MOTION MADE AND SECOND FOR A 10- MINUTE BREAK RECONVENED AT 10:55AM] 8. Annual Federal Child Care And Development Fund Report Presenter: Melissa Madrid REPORT HEARD 9. Lone Butte Development Corporation – Audit Exit Conference Presenter: Bruce BleakmanREDW REPORT HEARD 10. Lone Butte Development Corporation Fiscal Year 2013 Quarterly Report Presenter: Esther Manuel REPORT HEARD 11. 2013 Wild Horse Pass Development Annual Plan Presenter: Dale Gutenson REPORT HEARD MOTION MADE AND SECOND TO ENTER EXECUTIVE SESSION 12. 4 Month Summary of Early Childhood Special Services Activities FY13 (Executive Session) Presenter: Aurora Navarez REPORT HEARD IN EXECUTIVE SESSION MOTION MADE AND SECOND TO EXIT EXECUTIVE SESSION MOTION MADE AND SECOND FOR A 1-HOUR LUNCH BREAK RECONVENED AT 1:36PM 13. Gila River Police Department Assessment Summary Action Plan (Executive Session) Presenter: John Oliveira MOTION MADE AND SECOND TO SUSPEND THE RULES AND MOVE THIS ITEM TO NEW BUSINESS #6 MOTION MADE AND SECOND TO ENTER EXECUTIVE SESSION 14. Gila River Gaming Enterprises, Inc. - Monthly Report January 2013 (Executive Session) Presenters: John James, Board Of Directors REPORT HEARD IN EXECUTIVE SESSION 15. Gila River Gaming Commission General Report January And February 2013 (Executive Session) Presenter: Serena Joaquin, Courtney Moyah REPORT HEARD IN EXECUTIVE SESSION 16. FY 2013 1st Quarter Treasurer’s Report (Executive Session) Presenter: Robert G. Keller REPORT HEARD IN EXECUTIVE SESSION MOTION MADE AND SECOND TO EXIT EXECUTIVE SESSION RESOLUTIONS 1. A Resolution Of Consent To Grant A One-Time Event Liquor License To The Boys & Girls Club Of The East Valley For Use At The Rawhide Western Town & Steak house In Conjunction With The Bon Vivant Fund-Raising Event To Be Held On March 24, 2013 (G&MSC forwards to Council with recommendation of approval) Presenter: Chilo Figueroa APPROVED 2. A Resolution Approving Arizona Department Of Liquor Licenses And Control Application For Liquor License For The Blackwater Trading Post (G&MSC forwards to Council with recommendation of approval; EDSC concurs) Presenters: Perry Riggs, Dale Gutenson APPROVED 3. A Resolution Approving A Memorandum Of Understanding Between NORC At The University Of Chicago And The Gila River Indian Community To Complete A Housing Assessment Within The Community (G&MSC forwards to Council with recommendation of approval) Presenter: Tina Notah-Enas APPROVED 4. A Resolutions A Resolution Approving The Department Of Community Housing To Submit An Indian Community Development Block Grant Application (G&MSC forwards to Council with recommendation for approval) Presenter: Tina Notah-Enas APPROVED 5. A Resolution Designating And Approving The Assignment Of 9.2950 Acres, More Or Less, Of Reservation Land Within District Six Of The Gila River Indian Community As Shown In Drawing No. 30612-0385In Order To Operate And Maintain The Santa Cruz Cemetery For The Purpose Of Interring The Bodies Or Remains Of Eligible Community Members (NRSC forwards to Council with recommendation for approval) Presenter: Rod Tuttle APPROVED 6. A Resolution Approving the Attached Effluent Usage Agreement Between The Gila River Indian Community Department of Public Works And Lone Butte Partnership (NRSC forwards to Council with recommendation for approval) Presenters: Ronald Rosier, Steve Heeley, Nathan Yeigh DISPENSED AT APPROVAL OF AGENDA ORDINANCES 1. The Gila River Indian Community Council Hereby Enacts Revisions To Title 20 Of The Gila River Indian Community Code By Amending Article III, 20.106 (F), 20.107 (F), 20.108 (F); Article IV, 20.110 (D)(4),20.111 (D)(4); Article V, 20.114 (D)(4), 20.115 (D)(4); Article VI, 20.117 (D)(3), 20.118 (D)(4) And Article VII 20.119 (D) (3) To Allow For A Maximum Building Height Of 45 Feet Above Grade For All Non Residential, Public And Commercial Buildings Within The Exterior Boundaries Of The Reservation Subject To And Contingent Upon Gila River Fire Department And Building Safety Approval (NRSC forwards to Council with recommendation for approval, LSC concurs) Presenter: Rod Tuttle APPROVED UNFINISHED BUSINESS 1. Code Of Conduct Compliance Results (G&MSC forwards to Community Council with recommendation to proceed with Chapter 5 removal per the memo) Presenter: Linda Andrews MOTION MADE AND SECOND TO REMOVE DUE TO LACK OF COMPLIANCE WITH THE CODE OF CONDUCT, THOSE LISTED IN 2012 AND THE COMMUNITY COUNCIL SECRETARY’S OFFICE DIRECT THE REMAINING 2013 LISTEES TO BE IN ATTENDANCE AT THE MARCH 26, 2013 TRAINING NEW BUSINESS 1. Casa Blanca Community School Written Plan SY2012/2013 (ESC forwards to Council with recommendation for approval) Presenter: Eric James APPROVED 2. 2013 FCC Seeks Nominations For Municipal And Tribal Representatives On the Intergovernmental Advisory Committee (G&MSC motioned to forward to Community Council with recommendation for approval to appoint Councilman Dale Enos District 3 Councilman) Presenters: Government & Management Standing Committee COUNCILMAN DALE ENOS APPOINTED 3. Declaration of Vacancy for Gila River Gaming Enterprise, Inc. Board of Directors Presenters: Government & Management Standing Committee ONE (1) UNEXPIRED TERM DECLARED 4. Sun Valley Marina Corporation (EDSC forwards Continued on next page, 19 April 2013 Gila River Indian News Community Council Action Sheets continued from page 18 OF WILLIAM R. RHODES & LUCIUS KYYITAN AND TO DECLARE THE TWO (2) VACANto Council with recommendation CIES [Addendum to Agenda] to remove the board; as recommended from 5. Confirmation of Planning & Zoning Commission D6 Reprethe 2/14/13 meeting) Presenters: Government & Man- sentative Presenter: Linda Andrews agement Standing Committee MOTION MADE AND SECOND MOTION MADE AND SECTO DISPENSE MOTION MADE OND TO CONFIRM DANIELLE AND SECOND TO FORMALLY SPRING ACCEPT THE RESIGNATIONS 6. Gila River Police Department Assessment Summary Action Plan (Executive Session) Presenter: John Oliveira MOTION MADE AND SECOND TO DIRECT THE PUBLIC SAFETY DIVISION MANGER CELAYA AND ACTING CHIEF ALAMEDA OF THE GILA RIVER POLICE DEPARTMENT TO ENGAGE IN A WORK SESSION WITH LEGISLATIVE STANDING COMMITTEE TO DISCUSS THE ACTION PLAN SO AS TO Page 19 COLLABORATE AND PROVIDE DIRECTION AND SUPPORT TO GILA RIVER POLICE DEPARTMENT MINUTES ANNOUNCEMENTS ADJOURNMENT MEETING ADJOURNED AT 2:47PM * Denotes TABLED from previous meeting(s) Community Council Action Sheets Wednesday, March 20, 2013 ACTION SHEET Community Council; PO Box 2138; Sacaton, Arizona 85147; Phone (520) 5629720; Fax (520) 562-9729 CALL TO ORDER The Second Regular Monthly Meeting of the Community Council held Wednesday March 20, 2013, in the Community Council Chambers at the Governance Center in Sacaton, Arizona was called to order by presiding Chairman Lt. Governor Stephen R. Lewis at 9:06 a.m. INVOCATION Provided by Councilwoman Cynthia Antone ROLL CALL Sign-In Sheet Circulated Executive Officers Present: Lt. Governor Stephen R. Lewis Executive Officers Absent: Governor Gregory Mendoza Council Members Present: D1-Cynthia Antone, Arzie Hogg; D2-Jewel Whitman; D3-Myron G. Schurz, Dale G. Enos; D4-Monica Antone, Jennifer Allison, Christopher Mendoza, Barney Enos, Jr.; D5- Annette J. Stewart, Janice F. Stewart, Brenda Roberson (9:29), Franklin Pablo, Sr.; D6-Anthony Villareal, Sr., Albert Pablo, Terrance B. Evans; D7- Martha Miller APPROVAL OF AGENDA APPROVED AS AMENDED INTRODUCTIONS [Addendum to Agenda] 1. Miss Gila River and 1st Attendant MISS GILA RIVER LISA HENDRICKS PROVIDED A BRIEF OVERVIEW OF HER BACKGROUND. 1ST ATTENDANT TYLER OWENS PROVIDED A BRIEF OVERVIEW OF HER BACKGROUND. 2 1. 14th Annual Gila River Close Up-Event Presenter: Michael Preston MR. MICHAEL PRESTON AND MR. DEVIN REDBIRD PROVIDED A BRIEF OVERVIEW OF THE CLOSE-UP PROGRAM. EACH OF THE CLOSE-UP PARTICIPANTS INTRODUCED THEMSELVES. REPORTS *1. Gila Crossing Community School Preschool 1st Quarter Report Presenters: Jagdish Sharma, Jeff Williamson REPORT HEARD [MOTION MADE AND SECOND FOR A 10-MINUTE BREAK RECONVENED AT 11:16AM] *2. Ira H. Hayes High School Tribal Allocation 1st Quarter Report Presenter: Wendy Ong TABLED AT APPROVAL OF AGENDA 3. Enterprise Resource Planning (ERP) Project Status As Of March 7, 2013 Presenters: Mike Jacobs, Robert G. Keller, Geneva Gooden, Lorinda Roessal REPORT HEARD 4. Gila River Indian Community Utility Authority-FY 2012 Audited Financials Presenters: Adam Cavin, Leonard Gold REPORT HEARD MOTION MADE AND SECOND TO ACCEPT AUDITED FINANCIALS 5. Travel Report 1st Quarter Fiscal Year 2013 Presenter: Robert G. Keller REPORT HEARD [MOTION MADE AND SECOND FOR A 90MINUTE LUNCH BREAK RECONVENED AT 1:48PM] 6. Komatke Health Center Update on Growth and Utilization of Services Presenters: Richard Narcia, Dr. Noel Habib REPORT HEARD 7. Communication between Tribal Social Services and Gila River Health Care’s Behavioral Health Services Presenters: Richard Narcia, Steven Green REPORT HEARD 8. Domestic Violence Shelter Policies and Procedures Presenter: Gary Quinn REPORT HEARD 9. ADOT Passenger Rail Corridor Study Presenter: Sasha Saliego REPORT HEARD 10. Monthly Financial Report Ending February 28, 2013 (Executive Session) Presenters: Robert G. Keller, Mike Jacobs MOTION MADE AND SECOND TO ACCEPT RESOLUTIONS 1. A Resolution Approving And Ratifying An Intergovernmental Agreement Between Maricopa County And The Gila River Indian Community Establishing A Cooperative Highway Improvement Program (G&MSC forwards to Council with recommendation for approval; NRSC concurs) Presenter: Steven Johnson APPROVED 2. A Resolution Approving Additional Revisions To The 2010 Option And Lease Agreement For Central Arizona Project Water Between Apache Junction Water Utilities Community Facilities District And The Gila River Indian Community (G&MSC forwards to Council with recommendation for approval; NRSC concurs) Presenters: Linus Everling, Thomas Murphy APPROVED 3. A Resolution Authorizing The Gila River Indian Community Department Of Rehabilitation And Supervision To Submit A Grant Application Within The U.S. Department Of Justice- Coordinated Tribal Assistance Solicitation (CTAS) For FY2013 Consolidated Grant Application For Renovation And Maintenance Of The Correctional Facility, Including A Commitment For Continued Maintenance Thereof (G&MSC forwards to Council with recommendation for approval) Presenter: Randy Tracy DISPENSED AT APPROVAL OF AGENDA 4. A Resolution Approving And Authorizing An Agreement Between The Gila River Indian Community And Blue Stone Strategy Group For Fiscal Year 2013 (G&MSC forwards to Council with recommendation for approval) Presenter: Governor Gregory Mendoza TABLED 5. A Resolution Granting 2.03 Acres of Reservation Land In District Two To The Gila River Indian Community Utility Authority For The Purpose Of Constructing, Operating, Managing And Maintaining A Public Utility Easement As Shown In Drawing No. 402130025A (NRSC forwards to Council with recommendation for approval) Presenters: Dante Nash, Ron Rosier APPROVED 6. A Resolution Approving The Petition For The Enrollment Of Lenora Yucupicio Into The Gila River Indian Community (LSC forwards to Council with recommendation for approval) Presenter: Valerie Williams MOTION MADE AND SECOND TO APPROVE RESOLUTIONS #6 – #13 7. A Resolution Approving The Petition For The Enrollment Of Vestee Ellis Jones Into the Gila River Indian Community (LSC forwards to Council with recommendation for approval) Presenter: Valerie Williams APPROVED AT RESOLUTION #6 8. A Resolution Approving The Petition For The Enrollment Of Samuel Hart Kenton Jr Into The Gila River Indian Community (LSC forwards to Council with recommendation for apContinued on page 22 Page 20 April 2013 Law & Order Proposed Legislation from Office of General Counsel PROPOSED LEGISLATION: Children’s Code The Gila River Indian Community Council is considering a revision to the Children’s Code. A copy of the proposed revised ordinance in its entirety is available for review at all District Service Centers and the Community Council Secretary’s Office. This revision will be considered at the May 7, 2013 Legislative Standing Committee meeting at 1:00 p.m. Community members may comment on the proposed revised ordinance by contacting their Council member(s) and/or Councilman Myron Schurz, the Chairperson of the Legislative Standing Committee. Written comments may also be sent to: GRIC Law Office, Post Office Box 97, Sacaton, Arizona 85147. TITLE 7 CHILDREN’S CODE CHAPTER 1. TITLE AND GENERAL PROVISIONS 7.103. Definitions. 63. Serious Offense means an act proscribed pursuant to Title Five of the Community Code which, if committed by an adult, would be a crime punishable by more than 365 days detention. CHAPTER 5. JUVENILE OFFENDER MATTERS 7.501. Matters Under Title Five and Title Six of the Community Code. A. Application of this section. A minor between 8 and18 years of age who commits an act which, if committed by an adult, would be a crime pursuant to provisions of an ordinance or other law of the Community, shall be adjudicated as a juvenile offender pursuant to this section. However, any offense charged in Children’s Court shall be considered a misdemeanor, even if only chargeable as a felony under Title Five of the Community Code. 7.507. Disposition Hearing. A. An order of disposition made pursuant to this section shall remain in force no longer than the maximum period of detention an adult may receive for the same offense committed, but in no event shall the total detention and probation order exceed one year per juvenile offender proceeding, which includes all alleged offenses within a juvenile offender petition. When issuing an order of disposition pursuant to this section, the Children’s Court Judge shall not consider any sentencing laws or guidelines provided outside of this Title. PROPOSED LEGISLATION: Driving Under the Influence The Gila River Indian Community Council is considering a revision to the Traffic Code. A copy of the proposed revised ordinance in its entirety is available for review at all District Service Centers and the Community Council Secretary’s Office. This revision will be considered at the May 7, 2013 Legislative Standing Committee meeting at 1:00 p.m. Community members may comment on the proposed revised ordinance by contacting their Council member(s) and/or Councilman Myron Schurz, the Chairperson of the Legislative Standing Committee. Written comments may also be sent to: GRIC Law Office, Post Office 7.509. Transferring Juvenile Offender Matters to Community Court. A. Minors age 16 and over. Upon motion by counsel for the Community, the Children’s Court shall automatically transfer jurisdiction of a minor’s juvenile offender matter, which includes all alleged offenses within a juvenile offender petition, to the Community Court for prosecution as an adult, if the minor is alleged to have committed a serious offense on or after his 16th birthday, and if after a hearing, there is probable cause to believe the minor committed a serious offense. In such matters, the Children’s Court Judge shall not be required to comply with Section 7.509.D., below. B. Minors age 15 and under. Upon motion by counsel for the Community, the court may transfer jurisdiction of a minor’s juvenile offender matter, which includes all alleged offenses within a juvenile offender petition, to the Community Court for prosecution as an adult, if the minor is alleged to have committed a serious offense between the ages of 13 and 15 years, and if after a hearing, there is probable cause to believe the minor committed a serious offense. C. For minors age 15 and under, the Children’s Court Judge shall consider the following factors when deciding whether to transfer a juvenile offender matter to Community Court for prosecution as an adult: 1. The gravity of the offense, including the danger to the Community posed by the minor; 2. The age of the minor; 3. The availability of programs designed to treat the minor’s behavioral problems; 4. The nature of the minor’s prior Juvenile Offender record, if any, including prior appearances before the Children’s Court as an alleged juvenile offender or status offender, the nature of past treatment efforts extended and the minor’s response to such efforts; and 5. The view of the victim in the offense. D. For minors age 15 and under, the Children’s Court may, at its discretion, order no additional documentation, or it may order the relevant department produce one or more of the following documents with a deadline, before deciding to transfer a juvenile offender matter to Community Court: 1. A written psychological evaluation of the minor performed by a psychiatrist or psychologist that includes at a minimum: a. The nature of the minor’s mental condition; b. An assessment regarding the Box 97, Sacaton, Arizona 85147. TITLE 6 - TRAFFIC CODE CHAPTER 6. DRIVING UNDER INFLUENCE OF INTOXICATING SUBSTANCES 6.601. Driving or Actual Physical Control While Under the Influence. 6.602. Extreme Driving Under Influence or Actual Physical Control. 6.603. Aggravated Driving or Actual Physical Control While Under the Influence. 6.604. Permitted Use and Proof of Prior Offenses. 6.605. Revocation of License. 6.606. Implied Consent. 6.607. Possession of Alcoholic likelihood that the minor can be rehabilitated; and c. Recommendations of appropriate treatment plan for the minor. 2. If the minor is ward of the court, a written case history report submitted by Tribal Social Services to include: a. A detailed narrative describing how the Community has intervened for the minor’s protection, and the services provided; and b. An assessment by the Probation Department, which discusses the minor’s amenability and responses to treatment. 3. Any additional documentation shall be provided to all interest parties upon receipt. E. In no instance, however, shall the absence of a prior record of a juvenile offense be determined to outweigh the gravity of a serious offense resulting in the death of another, serious physical injury of another or the taking or destruction of property valued in excess of $5,000. F. Procedure. 1. A motion to transfer shall be filed by counsel for the Community within 10 working days after filing a juvenile offender petition in the matter. 2. A transfer hearing shall be convened within 30 calendar days following the filing of the motion to transfer the juvenile offender matter to Community Court by counsel for the Community. The Children’s Court may continue the transfer hearing with good cause appearing. 3. Written notice of the transfer hearing shall be given to the minor, his counsel and parent(s) or guardian(s) within seven calendar days of the filing of the motion to transfer; and copies of materials shall be provided to the minor and his counsel. 4. Probable Cause to Transfer. At the transfer hearing, unless the probable cause determination is waived, the Children’s Court Judge must determine from evidence presented whether there is probable cause to believe the minor committed a serious offense. The probable cause determination may be waived by written waiver signed by the minor, his counsel and counsel for the Community. a. When a serious offense is alleged that is punishable as either a felony or a misdemeanor under Title Five Criminal Code of the Community Code there must be probable cause that that the minor committed a serious offense and either (1) one aggravating factor listed below was committed in addition to the offense; or (2) an additional element is present and charged in the felony offense that is not present in the misdemeanor of- Beverage in a Motor Vehicle. 6.601. Driving or Actual Physical Control While Under the Influence. A. Definition. It is unlawful for any person to drive or be in actual physical control of any vehicle within the Gila River Reservation if the person: 1. Is under the influence of intoxicating liquor, any controlled substance, marijuana, a vapor releasing substance containing a toxic substance, or any combination thereof, if the person is impaired to the slightest degree, or 2. Has a blood or breath alcohol concentration of or exceeding 0.08 (80 mg/dL) percent within two hours of driving or being in actual physical fense. Any alleged aggravating factor must be included on the juvenile offender petition. The aggravating factors include: 1. Causing or threatening serious physical injury; 2. Engaging in violent conduct that indicates a serious danger to Community; 3. Causing extensive property damage; 4. Use or possession of deadly weapon during and in relation to any criminal offense; 5. The offender has a prior criminal history; 6. Accomplice(s) present; 7. Offender induced others to commit crime/ringleader; 8. Offender induced minor to commit crime or participate; 9. Offense was especially heinous/depraved; 10. Offense committed for financial gain; 11. Victim suffered physical, emotional, or financial harm; 12. Death of unborn child resulted; 13. Offender was wearing body armor; 14.Victim was elderly, disabled, or vulnerable; 15. Offender was a fiduciary, or held a position of trust/authority with respect to the victim; 16. The offense constituted a hate crime; 17.Committed murder, negligent homicide, or manslaughter while driving above .15 blood alcohol content; 18.Violence committed in presence of child; 19.Committed in retaliation for reporting criminal activity or testifying in a criminal proceeding; 20.Impersonating a law enforcement officer during offense; 21. Prior probation/revocation history; 22. Offender committed this offense while on probation/parole; 23. Juvenile history involving the commission of criminal conduct within five years of the instant offense; 24. Multiple victims; 25. Offender reasonably appears not to be conducive to supervision in a less restrictive setting; 26. Offender continued criminal activity subsequent to arrest; 27. Crime involved planning, sophistication, or professionalism; and 28. If a serious felony under Title Five of the Community Code, offender engaged in tying, binding, or confining any victim. b. During the probable cause determination, the Children’s Court Judge shall admit only such evidence as is material to the question whether control of a vehicle, and that alcohol concentration results from alcohol consumed either before or while driving or being in actual physical control of the vehicle. 3. The fact that a person charged with a violation of this Subsection is entitled to lawfully use such intoxicating liquor, controlled substance, or vapor-releasing substance containing a toxic substance is not a defense against any charge of violating Section 6.601.A.1 or 6.601.A.2. B. Presumptions. In any criminal prosecution for a violation of Section 6.601.A.1, relating to driving a vehicle while under the influence of intoxicating liquor, the amount of alcohol in the defendant’s blood, urine, breath, or other bodily substance shall give rise to the following pre- probable cause exists that the minor committed a serious offense, which may include hearsay. Rules or objections calling for the exclusion of evidence on the ground that it was obtained unlawfully shall be inapplicable. c. The court shall issue process to secure the attendance of witnesses. All parties shall have the right to cross-examine witnesses and to review their previous written statements prior to such cross-examination. After the counsel for the Community and counsel for the minor have presented their cases, the judge shall determine and state for the record whether the Community’s case establishes probable cause. d. If it appears from the evidence that there is not probable cause to believe that a serious offense has been committed by the minor, the judge shall deny the Community’s motion to transfer. 5. In the event a motion to transfer the minor’s juvenile offender matter to Community Court is not granted, the Judge denying the transfer shall be disqualified from presiding over any subsequent hearings concerning the minor’s juvenile offender matter. 6. If a Children’s Court Judge transfers the juvenile offender matter to Community Court for adult prosecution and the minor is in custody, the Children’s Court Judge shall simultaneously issue an order placing the minor into the Department of Rehabilitation and Supervision Adult Division facility pending arraignment in Community Court. The Judge shall include in the order that the Department of Rehabilitation and Supervision Adult Division facility shall ensure that the minor is housed separately by sight and sound from adult inmates. 7. Once transferred to the Community Court for prosecution, the provisions of this Title shall be without effect as to the disposition of a matter, except for orders placing the minor into the adult detention facility and the minor’s testimony in a transfer hearing shall not be admissible in a subsequent criminal proceeding in Community Court. 8. After a minor is transferred to Community Court for prosecution as an adult, the Children’s Court shall dismiss the juvenile offender matter and terminate the jurisdiction of the Children’s Court over the minor, the matter shall be deemed to have never arisen and the minor may so respond in any inquiry into the matter. 9. In the event, that a minor’s transfer is appealed, the Children’s Court shall forward all court documents and orders regarding the matter to the Appellate Court for consideration. sumption: 1. If there was at that time 0.05 (50 mg/dL) or less by weight of alcohol in the defendant’s blood, it shall be presumed that the defendant was not under the influence of intoxicating liquor. 2. If there was at that time in excess of 0.05 (50 mg/dL) but less than 0.08 (80 mg/dL) by weight of alcohol in the defendant’s blood, such fact shall not give rise to any presumption that the defendant was or was not under the influence of intoxicating liquor but such fact may be considered with other competent evidence in determining the guilt or innocence of the defendant. April 2013 PROPOSED LEGISLATION: Judges Pro Tempore The Gila River Indian Community Council is considering a revision to Title 4, Courts and Procedure, Section 4.106. Judges Pro Tempore. A copy of the proposed revised ordinance in its entirety is available for review at all District Service Centers and the Community Council Secretary’s Office. This revision will be considered at the May 7, 2013 Legislative Standing Committee meeting at 1:00 p.m. Community members may comment on the proposed revised ordinance by contacting their Council member(s) and/or Councilman Myron Schurz, the Chairperson of the Legislative Standing Committee. PROPOSED LEGISLATION: Civil Code Amendment The Gila River Indian Community Council is considering a revision to Title 4, Courts and Procedure: Section 4.302. Applicable Law, Section 4.311. Evidence, and Section 4.310. Dismissal of Actions. A copy of the proposed revised ordinance in its entirety is available for review at all District Service Centers and the Community Council Secretary’s Office. This revision will be considered at the May 7, 2013 Legislative Standing Committee meeting at 1:00 p.m. Community members may comment on the proposed revised ordinance by contacting their Council member(s) and/or Councilman PROPOSED LEGISLATION: Civil Contempt The Gila River Indian Community Council is considering a revision to the Civil Code. A copy of the proposed revised ordinance in its entirety is available for review at all District Service Centers and the Community Council Secretary’s Office. This revision will be considered at the May 7, 2013 Legislative Standing Committee meeting at 1:00 p.m. Community members may comment on the proposed revised ordinance by contacting their Council member(s) and/or Councilman Myron Schurz, the Chairperson of the Legislative Standing Committee. Written comments may also be sent to: GRIC Law Office, Post Office Box 97, Sacaton, Arizona 85147. 8.1201. CIVIL CONPROPOSED LEGISLATION: Criminal Code The Gila River Indian Community Council is considering a revision to the Criminal Code for enhanced sentencing as provided for under the Tribal Law and Order Act. A copy of the proposed revised ordinance in its entirety is available for review at all District Service Centers and the Community Council Secretary’s Office. This revision will be considered at the May 7, 2013 Legislative Standing Committee meeting at 1:00 p.m. Community members may Page 21 Gila River Indian News B. Qualifications of Appointee: Persons appointed as judge pro tempore shall be: 1. Appointees may be a sitting judge of any other Indian Community or tribe; or 2. A Community member whose experience demonstrates a working knowledge of the laws and ordinances of the Gila River Indian Community and knowledge of the functioning of the Community Courts, including the Children’s Court; or 3. An attorney in good standing and licensed to practice law in the State of Arizona whose experience demonstrates knowledge of Indian law. C. Tribal Law and Order Act. Persons appointed as judges pro tempore in cases in which defendants are subject to enhanced sentences of longer than one year under the Tribal Law and Order Act of 2010 shall have sufficient legal training to preside over criminal proceedings, and be licensed to practice law by any jurisdiction in the United States. D. Authority of Judges Pro Tempore. A judge pro tempore shall have the same powers, privileges and duties as a Judge of the Community Court or the Children’s Court and shall be administered an oath of office. Any and all decisions, orders and actions in cases heard before a judge pro tempore shall be given the same authority as those issued by a judge of the Community Court or the Children’s Court. E. Length of Appointment. Judges pro tempore may be appoint- ed for any such term as the Chief Judge shall mandate, however no such appointment shall last longer than a period of twelve months. A judge pro tempore may be reappointed for another appointment before the expiration of the twelve-month period if the Chief Judge deems reappointment is necessary pursuant to section 4.106.A. judges pro tempore are subject to the provisions regarding misconduct under Title 1 of the GRIC Code. F. Compensation. Judges pro tempore shall be compensated at a rate as determined by the Judicial Department in consultation with the Human Resources Department. not covered by the laws, ordinances or traditional customs and usages of the Community, or by applicable federal laws or regulations, the court may look to the law of another tribal, federal or state jurisdiction for guidance. 4.310. DISMISSAL OF ACTION. A. An action may be dismissed by the plaintiff without order of court by filing a notice of dismissal at any time before the defendant responds to the action, either before the court or in writing, or by filing a stipulation of dismissal signed by all parties who have appeared in the action. Unless otherwise stated in the notice of dismissal or stipulation will not prevent the later filing of the same action. B. Except as provided in Section 4.310.A, an action shall not be dismissed by the plaintiff except upon order of the court and upon such terms and conditions as the court chooses to impose. C. For failure of the plaintiff to prosecute or comply with these rules or any order of the court, a defendant may move for dismissal of an action or any claim against him. D. Failure by a party or the court to satisfy any timeframes established in the Community Code will not be grounds for dismissal of the action if the judge finds that the delay is indispensable to the interests of justice and enters a written order detailing the reasons. E. In any case where mental health is an issue, including but not limited to involuntary mental health filings, the judge shall take into consideration whether dismissal would be contrary to the advice of health care professionals and if dismissed shall enter a written order detailing the reasons for dismissal. The appropriate remedy when detention occurs beyond a statutory timeframe is to consider release during the period of improper detention and not dismissal. TEMPT OF COURT. A. A person, whether Indian or non-Indian, commits the offense of civil contempt of court if he knowingly and intentionally does any of the following: 1. While in Court, engages in conduct which is disorderly, contemptuous, or insolent conduct, tending to interrupt any criminal or civil proceeding or which lessens the respect due to the Court’s authority; 2. Commits a breach of the peace, boisterous conduct, or a violent disturbance in the presence of the judge, or in the immediate vicinity of the court held by him, tending to interrupt the due course of a trial or other judicial proceeding; 3. Refuses to be sworn as a witness in any court proceeding; 4. Refuses to serve as a juror; 5. Fails without excuse to attend a trial at which he has been chosen to serve as a juror; 6. Fails to pay a fine or restitution that was ordered by the court. a. The clerk of the court shall notify the Office of the Prosecutor and the sentencing court whenever a defendant defaults in the payment of a fine or restitution. b. The court, on motion by the prosecutor, or on the court’s own motion, may order the defendant to appear for a hearing to show cause why the defendant’s default should not be treated as contempt. c. At the hearing, the prosecutor, the court and any person entitled to restitution may examine the defendant under oath concerning the defendant’s ability to pay the fine or restitution. d. If the court finds the defendant has shown sufficient cause for not paying the fine or restitution, despite sufficient good faith efforts to obtain the monies, the court may enter any reasonable order that would assure compliance with the order to pay, including ordering garnishment of the defendant’s per capita payments if applicable. e. If the court finds the defendant has not show sufficient cause for not paying the fine or restitution, it will be considered contempt has been committed as provided in paragraph C of this section. If a detention sentence is imposed, the sentence must be commuted upon satisfaction of the debt. f. Any penalty ordered under this section does not affect the obligation to pay any fines or restitution previously ordered, including those fines or restitution ordered in the underlying matter. B. When contempt is committed in the immediate view and presence of a judge, the judge must make an order reciting the facts as the facts occurred, and that the person proceeded against is guilty of contempt, and that the matter will be set for a sentencing hearing. C. When contempt is not committed in the immediate view and presence of the judge it may not be punished except after notice to the defendant stating the facts and setting a hearing. The defendant shall be given a reasonable time to prepare his defense and shall be entitled to be represented by counsel and to present witnesses. Any charge under this offense must be established by clear and convincing evidence. If the contempt charge is for disrespect to or criticism of a judge, that judge shall be disqualified from hearing the contempt charge. D. The penalty for civil contempt of court shall a fine not to exceed $5,000.00. comment on the proposed revised ordinance by contacting their Council member(s) and/or Councilman Myron Schurz, the Chairperson of the Legislative Standing Committee. Written comments may also be sent to: GRIC Law Office, Post Office Box 97, Sacaton, Arizona 85147. munity Court shall have criminal jurisdiction over any Indian who commits any offense in violation of the Gila River Indian Community Code (“code” or “GRIC code”), when the offense occurs within the boundaries of the Gila River Indian Reservation. B. Nothing in this title shall be construed as limiting the civil or criminal power of the Community over non-Indians other than the express limitations imposed by the law of the United States. _________________________ _______ HISTORY: GRIC Code §5.101 (2009). 5.102. INDIAN DEFINED. Indian blood and maintains tribal or federal government recognition as an Indian. Tribal or federal government recognition as an Indian can be established by considering the following factors, in descending order of importance: a. Tribal enrollment; b. Government recognition formally and/or informally through receipt of assistance reserved only to Indians; c. Enjoyment of the benefits of tribal affiliation; or Written comments may also be sent to: GRIC Law Office, Post Office Box 97, Sacaton, Arizona 85147. 4.106. Judges Pro Tempore. A. Authority to Appoint. The Chief Judge of the Community Court may appoint judges pro tempore to preside over civil, criminal or juvenile cases before the Community Court and the Children’s Court in cases where the judges of the Community Court have been disqualified from sitting on a case or when such judge has disqualified him or herself, or when necessary to facilitate the administration of justice including compliance with the Tribal Law and Order Act of 2010. Myron Schurz, the Chairperson of the Legislative Standing Committee. Written comments may also be sent to: GRIC Law Office, Post Office Box 97, Sacaton, Arizona 85147. 4.302. APPLICABLE LAW. In all civil cases the court shall apply the Gila River Indian Community Constitution, laws and ordinances. The court may, but is not required to, apply the traditional customs of the Community if they are relevant and not in conflict with the laws and ordinances of the Community. Where any doubt arises as to the customs and usages of the Community, the court may request the advice of those familiar with those customs and usages. In deciding any matter that is CHAPTER 1. GENERAL PROVISIONS 5.101. CRIMINAL JURISDICTION. A. The Gila River Indian Com- 4.311. EVIDENCE. Unless provided otherwise under Community law, for all civil matters, the court shall apply the Gila River Rules of Evidence. A. An Indian is any person who is any of the following: 1. Is a member of, or is eligible for membership in, a federally recognized Indian tribe; 2. Has ever been eligible for membership in a federally recognized Indian tribe; 3. Is an Alaskan Native and member of a Regional Corporation as defined in Section 7 of the Alaskan Native Claims Settlement Act; or 4. Possesses some degree of BIA PIMA AGENCY: PUBLIC NOTICE Price Road Alignment Water Pipeline Environmental Assessment The Gila River Indian Community (GRIC), Department of Public Works, is proposing to construct a new water pipeline east of Price Road on 15.7 acres of allotted land between Riggs Road and Queen Creek Road in Maricopa County, Arizona The proposed action would include the approval of a 10-foot wide permanent easement and a 30foot wide temporary construction easement by the Bureau of Indian Affairs (BIA), Pima Agency, in order to allow for the water pipeline construction. Based on the February 2013 Price Road Alignment Water Pipeline Environmental Assessment (EA), it has been determined that the Proposed Action will not have a significant impact on the quality of the human environment. Therefore, an Environ- mental Impact Statement is not required. This is a public notice of availability of a Finding of No Significant Impact (FONSI) and Final EA for review. The FONSI and the Final EA will be publicly available for 30 days beginning March 25, 2013, and ending April 23, 2013. To obtain a copy of the FONSI and the Final EA, please contact: Cecilia Martinez Bureau of Indian Affairs, Pima Agency P.O. Box 8 Sacaton, Arizona 8514 7 Telephone Number: 520.562.3326 Fax: 520.562.3543 Please note this FONSI is a finding on environmental effects not a decision to proceed with an action; therefore, it carmot be ap- pealed. Title 25, Code of Federal Regulations, Part 2.7 requires a 30-day appeal period after the decision to proceed with the action is made before the action may be implemented. Appeal information will be posted at Pima Agency when the decision to proceed is made. Page 22 Announcements & Notices Community Council Action Sheets continued from page 19 proval) Presenter: Valerie Williams APPROVED AT RESOLUTION #6 9. A Resolution Approving The Petition For The Enrollment Of Karen Louise Topel Into The Gila River Indian Community (LSC forwards to Council with recommendation for approval) Presenter: Valerie Williams APPROVED AT RESOLUTION #6 10. A Resolution Approving The Petition For The Enrollment Of Alicia Marie Ramirez Into The Gila River Indian Community (LSC forwards to Council with recommendation for approval) Presenter: Valerie Williams APPROVED AT RESOLUTION #6 11. A Resolution Approving The Petition For The Enroll- ment Of Henry Florez Zepeda, Jr., Into The Gila River Indian Community (LSC forwards to Council with recommendation for approval) Presenter: Valerie Williams APPROVED AT RESOLUTION #6 12. A Resolution Approving The Petition For The Enrollment Of Janelle Lynn Lewis Into The Gila River Indian Community (LSC forwards to Council with recommendation for approval) Presenter: Valerie Williams APPROVED AT RESOLUTION #6 13. A Resolution Approving the Relinquishment of Marie Ellenette Seto aka Fleming From The Membership Roll Of The Gila River Indian Community (LSC forwards to Council with recommendation for approval) Presenter: Valerie Williams APPROVED AT RESOLU- TION #6 ORDINANCES UNFINISHED BUSINESS 1. Blackwater Trading Post Construction Financing (G&MSC forwards to Council for consideration with addition information provided by Treasurer Keller) Presenter: Dale Gutenson MOTION MADE ANS SECOND TO SUPPORT THE FINANCIAL OPTION #2 [MOTION MADE AND SECOND FOR A 10-MINUTE BREAK RECONVENED AT 4:20PM] MOTION MADE AND SECOND TO ENTER EXECUTIVE SESSION 2. Zuni Tribe’s Proposed Amendment To Gaming Device Operating Rights Transfer Agreements (Executive Session) (G&MSC forwards to Council for consideration) Presenters: Linus Everling, Eric Dahlstrom GRICUA Announcements Summer Student Intern Program 2013 Customer Service Representative - Part Time Summer College Student Intern. The student will learn about the tasks and responsibilities of The Gila River Indian Commuthe people who provide electric nity Utility Authority (GRICUA) The Gila River Indian Commuservice to the Community. nity Utility Authority (GRICUA) OPPORTUNITY: has an opportunity for Summer has an opportunity for a CusStudent Interns to learn a little • Student will work 40 hours per tomer Service Representative about how an electric utility week, Monday through Friday (CSR), Part-time. Position is in operates. Four interns will be • Pay will be $7.80 per hour selected for individual two week the GRICUA Business Office in (Arizona Minimum Wage) Chandler, AZ. internships. • Program for student will be deOPPORTUNITY: The students will rotate veloped based on his/her major • CSR will work 24 hours per through various departments at course of study – for example, week, Wednesday, Thursday and GRICUA, learning about the a Business or Accounting major Friday. tasks and responsibilities of the will work primarily with staff • Pay will be $12.00 per hour. people who provide electric in that area; an Engineering • CSR will gain skills in taking service to the Community. or technical major will work customer payments, researching OPPORTUNITY: primarily in the Operations areas discrepancies, and answering • Students will work 40 hours of GRICUA telephone inquiries. per week, Monday through Fri• Students will learn from • CSR will fill in for other CSRs day for a two week period. experienced draftsmen, wareand may be moved to a full-time • Pay will be $7.80 per hour house & purchasing personnel, position in the future. (Arizona Minimum Wage) meter technician, line workers, • Students will learn from expe- REQUIREMENTS: accountants, customer service • Candidates must be at least 18 rienced draftsmen, warehouse representatives and others disupervisor, meter technician, line years of age rectly involved with the work in • Candidate should have some ba- the utility workers, accountants, customer sic computer skills, such as word REQUIREMENTS: service representatives and othprocessing and spreadsheets ers directly involved with the • Student must be at least 18 • Job description can be found work in the utility years of age and currently enon the GRICUA website – www. rolled as a full time student at an REQUIREMENTS: gricua.net/employment • Students must be at least 16 accredited college or university. • All candidates must complete years of age • Student should have some ba• Students should have some ba- the GRICUA Application for sic computer skills, such as word sic computer skills, such as word Employment which can be found processing and spreadsheets; at http://www.gricua.net/employ- clear Arizona driver’s license processing and spreadsheets ment.html • Students must complete the • Students must complete the • Candidate must pass a drug GRICUA Application for EmGRICUA Application for Employment which can be found at screen and background check ployment which can be found at before employment http://www.gricua.net/employhttp://www.gricua.net/employ• Return applications via e-mail ment.html ment.html to GRICUAHR@GRICUA.NET; • Deadline for filing applications • Students will be required to by fax to 480-452-1429 or mail pass a drug screen before emis May 17 at 4:00 p.m. to GRICUA Human Resources ployment • Student will be required to pass • Deadline for filing applications Dept. at 6640 W. Sundust Road, a drug screen and background Box 5091, Chandler, AZ 85226. is May 17 at 4:00 p.m. check prior to employment • Return applications via e-mail applications via e-mail Summer College Stu- •toReturn to GRICUAHR@GRICUA. GRICUAHR@GRICUA. NET; by fax to 480-452-1429 dent Intern Program NET; by fax to 480-452-1429 or mail to GRICUA Human or mail to GRICUA Human The Gila River Indian CommuResources Dept. at 6640 W. Sunnity Utility Authority (GRICUA) Resources Dept. at 6640 W. Sundust Road, Box 5091, Chandler, has an opportunity for a full-time dust Road, Box 5091, Chandler, AZ 85226. AZ 85226. April 2013 ITEM HEARD IN EXECUTIVE SESSION MOTION MADE AND SECOND TO EXIT EXECUTIVE SESSION MOTION MADE AND SECOND TO DIRECT THE LITIGATION TEAM TO ENGAGE WITH DISCUSSIONS AND CONDUCT BUSINESS WITH THE ZUNI TRIBE NEW BUSINESS 1. Declaration of Vacancy – Community Council Secretary Presenter: Linda Andrews DECLARED MINUTES ANNOUNCEMENTS ADJOURNMENT MEETING ADJOURNED AT 5:04PM * Denotes TABLED from previous meeting(s) 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 Once again GRTI will be participating in the Five Tribes Treaty of Peace Parade and afterwards you can see us at our booth! As always we will have a survey along with awesome raffle prizes! Be sure to make it out to the event and say hello! Interested in finding out about GRTI’s low Internet rates and computer purchase program? Please attend our Informational Event at the Sheraton Wild Horse Pass Resort Convention Center on Saturday, April 20, 2013 from 9:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. Call (520) 796-8843 to RSVP. We look forward to seeing you there! Congratulations To Our Mul-Chu-Tha Raffle Winner! Vernice Jackson! Enjoy the iPad Vernice! Thank You all who stopped by the booth to enter the raffle or just to say hello! We Love seeing our customers! 150th Annual Five Tribes Treaty of Peace C E L E B R A T I O N April 12-14 A REMEMBRANCE OF THE HISTORIC TREATY THAT FIVE TRIBES MADE TO ENSURE PEACE THROUGHOUT THE NEW MEXICO TERRITORY. FRIDAY SATURDAY SUNDAY • Elder Chair Volleyball Tournament • All-Nighter Softball Tournament • Competitive tournaments and runs • Parade • Bird Dance Competition • Food and craft vendors • Fun activities for kids • 2nd Annual Social Pow-Wow • Food & craft vendors • Little League Tournament THIS IS A FREE ADMISSION, FAMILY FRIENDLY EVENT WITH SOMETHING TO DO FOR THE WHOLE FAMILY. MAKE SURE TO SIGN UP FOR THE TOURNAMENTS, THEY FILL UP FAST! General information please call District 7 Recreation at (520) 430-4780 Gila River Indian Community’s District 7 Park 8035 S. 83rd Avenue, Laveen AZ 85339 (83rd Avenue, South of Baseline) Gila River Indian Community, District Seven, Gila River Commissioners, and Event Committee & Volunteers shall not be held responsible for bodily injury, or theft, or damages incurred during the Five Tribes Treaty of Peace Celebration.
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