State representatives sponsor bill to expand boundaries of Casa
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State representatives sponsor bill to expand boundaries of Casa
“ 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 AUGUST 16, 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. 12 By Mikhail Sundust Gila River Indian News The Casa Grande Ruins National Monument park, which houses the famous “Great House” (or Sivan Vahki, as the O’odham call it), is set to expand its boundaries if a new House of Representatives bill passes later this year. The proposed legislation, the “Casa Grande Ruins National Monument Boundary Modifi- cation Act of 2013” bill (H.R. 2497), is a bi-partisan effort sponsored by Arizona Reps. Ann Kirkpatrick, Paul Gosar, Ed Pastor and Raúl Grijalva. If successful, the bill will nearly double the 473-acre, Coolidge-area park by adding another 413 acres of adjacent and nearby plots of land that have been proven to hold archaeological significance. The purpose of the land grab Gila River Business Owners nominate contractor for ‘40 Under 40’ Joshua Jovanelly/GRIN Carlos Muñoz, owner of Pimmex General Contracting, was recently awarded the contract for the George Webb Housing Division. He was nominated for the ‘40 under 40 Award’ by the Gila River Business Owners Association. By Joshua Jovanelly Gila River Indian News Carlos Muñoz, owner of Pimmex General Contracting, has built the promise of his company right into its name. The name represents a combo of Pima and Mexican — Muñoz’s ethnic background — and with it a commitment to employ minority workers to do contracting for neighborhood communities, especially in the Gila River Indian Community, where Muñoz grew up in District 5. Since the company was started in 2008 it has consistently grown, taking on more and more jobs both inside and outside Indian Country. IN the GRIN The early success of Pimmex has warranted some due recognition for the 29-year-old Muñoz. He was recently nominated for the National Center for American Indian Enterprise Development’s 40 Under 40 Awards, awarded to budding Native American entrepreneurs. According to the NCAIED website, the award “highlights 40 emerging American Indian leaders under 40 years of age who have demonstrated leadership, initiative and dedication to achieve impressive and significant contributions in their businesses, communities and to Indian Country.” The Gila River Business Education.....................Page 8 Community Updates..Page 5 Announcements/Notices Page 9 Health & Wellness.....Page 7 Action Sheets............Page 10 Owners Association submitted the nomination on Muñoz’s behalf. The application process is open until Sept. 2. Winners will be announced at the 38th Annual Indian Progress in Business Awards, which will be held at Wild Horse Pass Hotel in October. “I was actually very surprised, but it’s hard for me to praise myself,” Muñoz said. “I just go out and I do work that feels right.” The most rewarding part of operating Pimmex has been being able to give back to his community, Muñoz said. Since being awarded its first Community Continued on Page 3 EPA rates Loop 202 DEIS very low, Pg. 5 Continued on Page 5 Presorted Standard U.S. Postage PAID Sacaton, AZ Permit No. 25 Mikhail Sundust/GRIN Sivan Vahki, or the Casa Grande Ruins, is a place of great cultural significance for the O’odham people and stands as a testament to their history and the memory of the departed Huhugam. Barnaby Lewis, an officer of Gila River’s Tribal Historic Preservation Office. In the 2010 letter of support, GRIC claimed “cultural affiliation” to the area “on geographical, archaeological, linguistic, oral tradition and historical evidence. [We] identify Sivan Vahki (AKA the Casa Grande Ruins) as a Traditional Cultural Property that holds great religious and cul- Gila River Indian News P.O. Box 459 Sacaton, AZ 85147 Change Service Requested State representatives sponsor bill to expand boundaries of Casa Grande Ruins Monument is the protection of archaeological and cultural resources. “Our mission here at Casa Grande Ruins is to preserve the resources and then educate the public about those resources,” said Park Superintendent Karl Cordova. He said their aim is “to share those stories of what we think was happening here 1,000 year ago. And these land parcels help us understand the land better and to tell that story just a little bit better.” H.R. 2497 is not the first incarnation of a proposed expansion to the Casa Grande Ruins National Monument. In 2010, Rep. Kirkpatrick tried to pass a similar bill, which the Gila River Indian Community backed in an official memorandum dated April 2010: “The Gila River Indian Community highly supports federal legislation to modify the boundary of the Casa Grande Ruins National Monument.” In addition to their archaeological properties, these lands hold important cultural meaning for the O’odham people. “It is our ancestral land,” said C o l o ny Mikhail Sundust/GRIN A Gila River delegation attended Pres. Barack Obama’s visit to Desert Vista High School in Ahwatukee on Aug. 6. Obama visits Phoenix, touts housing in speech By Mikhail Sundust Gila River Indian News Nearly 700 high school seniors packed the gymnasium floor and hundreds of Arizonans lined the stands. Everyone faced the red, white and predominantly blue stage on the north wall and the crowd erupted at the first glimpse of Pres. Barack Obama, who visited the Ahwatukee high school Aug. 6 to address the nation on the topic of housing in America. Representing the Gila River Indian Community at the speech was Gov. Gregory Mendoza; Lt. Gov. Stephen Lewis; Community Council Reps. Carolyn Williams, Jennifer Allison, Monica Antone and Devin Redbird; Akimel O’odham / Pee-Posh Youth Council President Kyle Flores and Miss Gila River, Lisa Hohokimal Hendricks. Obama spoke to the at-capacity Desert Vista High School auditorium about the American Dream and how owning a home “is the ultimate evidence that here in America, hard work pays off, that responsibility is rewarded.” Housing plays a key role in the larger economic recovery effort, Obama said. The president recited a string of statistics high- lighting the recent upturn in the U.S. economy: “Home prices are rising at the fastest pace in seven years. Sales are up nearly 50 percent. Construction is up nearly 75 percent. New foreclosures are down by nearly two-thirds.” But the recovery isn’t done yet, he said, and he went on to outline his plan to find, as illustrated in the title of his address, “A Better Bargain for the Middle Class” in regards to housing and home ownership, “which is the most tangible cornerstone that lies at the heart of the American Dream, at the heart of middle-class life.” Part of his plan includes making it possible for homeowners to refinance their mortgages at today’s rates, which are lower than in recent years and to make it easier for new buyers to get their first home loans. Hendricks, a college student, who recently purchased her first vehicle, said the speech was “interesting” and helped her realize some of the complexities of making large purchases like a house or car. As a young person, she said, she doesn’t want to get cheated out of someday buying a house in a stable market and making it a home. New Council H.O.P.E. Secretary, Pg. 10 group, Page 11 Gila����������������������������������� River Health Care Do You Know Your ABCS ���������������������� Required Eligibility Document for Health? ���������������� ������������ � ���������� ��������������������� A for A1C less than 7% Proof of American Indian Enrollment������������������������������������������������������������������� ������������������������������������������������������������ ������ ������������������������������������������������������������� ���������������������������� �� �������������� ���� ����������������������� B�������������� for Blood pressure less than 130/80 ������ ���������������������������������������������������������������� ����������������������������� ��� ��������������������������������������� ���������������������������������������������� Recently as we�� enter into the time of���� Healthcare of ���������������������������������������������������������� ����������� ��������������� ��������Reform, the definition � �������������������������������������������� C������������������������������������������ for (LDL) Cholesterol less than 70-100 who is determined as American Indian has come into question. As a result, ��������������������������������������������������������������� �������������������������������������������� ������������������������������������������������ � ����������������������������� Gila River Health Care (GRHC) is���������������� requesting that ALL patients provide proper ������������ ��� ����� ����� �������� ������ ���������������������� S������ for�������� Smoking - No������� Smoking � ��������������������������������������������������� documentation to ensure their Electronic ������������������������������ ������������������������������������ Health Records (EHR) includes a confirmation of proof of enrollment as a member of a federally recognized � ��������������� �������������������������������������������������������� Diabetes Care Program (DCP) providers tribe of the United States. Necessary documentation is needed for GRHC to ������������������������������������������������������� ���������������������������������� � ������������������������������������������ ���������������������������������������������� help patients and their families control meet Indian Health requirements (IHS and 638-contracted facilities) in order to ���������������������������������������������������������� �������������������������������� ������������������������������������������ ������� ������������������� �������������� ���� receive the entitled Annual Funding Agreement (AFA) dollars. diabetes and prevent complications. DCP ������������������������ ������������������������������������������� ���������������������������������������������� � ������������������������ does this by considering patients’ social ���������������������������������������������� ��������������������������������������������������� � ���������������������������������� The AFA dollars for healthcare is an obligation required of the federal � ����������������������������������������������������������� determinants of health ������������������������ and by helping them ��������������������� �������������������������������������������� government to meet some of the certain inherent rights of tribal nations; � ���������������������������������������� �������������������������������������������������������� ������������ ������������������������������ ���������������������������������������������� with eight health care activities. These therefore, health care facilities that receive these funds must ensure patients ���������������������������������������������������������� ����������������������������������������� ������������� receiving health care services are members of a federally recognized������������������������������������������������������������ tribe of health care activities help patients control ������������������������������������������������������ ����������������������� �������������������� the United States. One of the documents listed below is required to������������������������������������������������������������� determine their ABCS. ABCS When ABCS are controlled ������������������������������������������������������������� �������������������������������������������� ���������������������� ������������������� your eligibility accuracy. ������������������������������������������������������������������ patients do not have the increased risks of ������������������������������������ ������� �������������������������������� ������ ��������������������������������� ������������������ diabetes Complications ���������������������������������������������� ����������������� Effective January����������������������������� 1, 2014, all patients must provide one of the following ���������������������������������������������������������������� ���������������������������������������������� ������������������������������������ ������� as a provider of Indian documents to meet our eligibility requirements �� ������������������������������������������������������������� ������������������������������������������������������������� ����������������������������������������������������������� ������������ ��������������� ���� ������������������� ����� Healthcare: ���������������������������������������������������������������� �������������������������������������������������������� �������� �������������������������������������������������� ������������������������������������������� ������������� �������������� ����������������������������������������������������������� ������������������������������������������������������������ 1. Certificate of Indian Blood from a federally recognized tribe; or,����������������������������������������������������������� Certificate ��������������������������������������������������������� ���������������������� ������������������������� ������������������������������������������������������������ of Indian Descent from a federally recognized tribe; or, a Tribal ��������������� ������������������������������������������������������������ ������������������������������������������������������������ Enrollment Identification Card ���������������������������������������������������������� ����������������������������������������������� ������������������������������������������������������������ ������������������������������������������������������������� ���������������� �������������������������������������������������������������� Patients may have provided this information in the past; however, it is � ��������������������������������������������������������� ���������������������������������������������� important to have the documents reviewed and permanently scanned ������������������������������������������������� ������������������������������������������������������������� ���������������� ������� �� ����� ��� �������� ��������� ������ into your electronic medical health record. ����������������� ������������������������������������������ ����������������������������������������������������������������� ���������������������������������������������������������� ������������������������������������������������ ������������������������������ �������������������������� ������ ������ �������������������� ��������������������� ����� �� ��������������������������������������������������������� If a patient does not have proof of being an enrolled member of a ��������������� ������������������������������������������� �������������������� ������������������������������������������������������������ federally recognized tribe on their first visit after January 1,������������������������������������������������������������� 2014, a ����������������������������������������������������������������� �������������������������������������������������������������� ��������������������������������������������������� ����������������������������������������������������������������� friendly reminder will be provided with the expectation at their next visit ��������������������������������������������������������������� ������������������ ����������������������������������������� ���������������������������������������������������������� ���������������������������������������������������������� all documentation will be provided and collected. ������������������������� ������������������������������������������������������������ No Physician referral needed, talk to a DCP ���������������������������������������������������������� ������������������������������������������� ������������������������������������������������������ staff member today. Your cooperation will ensure that GRHC is serving individuals that are eligible �������������������������������������������������������������� � ������ ���� ������������������������������������� ����� ����� ������������������������ for health care services. Just as importantly, these efforts will defer������������������ attempts ������������������������������������������������������������� �������������������������� ������������������������������ to fraudulently receive healthcare services that are “ear-marked” for American Hu Hu Kam Memorial Hospital ����������������������������������������������������� ���������������������������� ������ ����������X������������������ ������������������������������������������������������������ Indians from a federally recognized tribe. � ������������������������������������������������������� 602-528-1200 1162 � �������������������������������������� ����� ������������������������������������������������ ������������������������������������������������������������� ���������������������������������������������� ���������������������������������������� ������������������� If the staff can be of any assistance to you, please do not hesitate to contact ���������������������������������������������������������������� ���������������������������������������������������������� Jovina Matus, Patient������������������ Registration Manager, at 520-562-3321 extension 1287. P. NarciaKomatke Health Center ������������������������������������������������������������ Richard ������������������������������������������������������������� 520-550-6470 ������������������������������������������������������������ ���������������������������������������� ��������������������������������������������������������� Thank you for your time and understanding. Please call or stop by the Pediatric �������������������������������������������������������������������� Department to make an appointment with your child‛s Primary Care Provider soon!!! ������������������������������������������������������������������� ��������������������������������������������������������������������� Margaret: 520-562-3321 ���������������������������������� ext. 1233 For best care, School, Boarding ������������������������������������������������������������������ School and Head Start PEs or Routine Immunizations will not be done in walk����������������� in. Sports PEs will be given consideration ������������� depending on urgency and availability. ���������������������� Komatke Health Center ���������������������� ���������������������������� 17487 South HealthCare Drive ���������������������������� ��������������������� Laveen, Arizona 85339 ��������������������� ������������������� Phone: 520.550.6000 ������������������� ����������������� Fax: 520.550.6033 ����������������� ��������������������������� Hu��������������������������� Hu Kam Memorial Hospital ����������������������� 483 West Seed Farm Road ����������������������� ���������������������� Sacaton, Arizona 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 ����������������� Accountability Commitment Commitment Patients&&Families Families Culture Accountability Patients Accountability Commitment Patients & Families Culture Culture Quality Self-Governance Trust Quality Quality Self-Governance Self-Governance Trust Trust Advertorial GRHC 6.28.2013.indd 1 Advertorial GRHC GRIN Ad 8.12.2013.indd 1 7/1/2013 4:33:10 PM 8/12/2013 4:01:30 PM Gila River Indian News August 16, 2013 Page 3 Elderly Nutrition Program The Elderly Nutrition Program (ENP) serves a hot meal Monday—Friday to eligible participants that meet the recommended daily allowance (RDA), and special diet needs. The goal is to increase or maintain the diet of elder individuals to ensure that 1/3 of their dietary needs are met. The program serves District 1-7 within the Gila River Indian Community. Eligibility Requirements Governor Gregory Mendoza Lt. Governor Stephen Roe Lewis • Meals provided to any person 55 and over and/or to a spouse under age 55 living in the same household. • Meals provided to handicapped or dis-abled program participants under are 60 who live in congregate housing facilities occupied primarily by the elderly. Community Council Representatives District #1 • Meals provided at home to persons who have demonstrated a need to be home-bound. Arzie Hogg Cynthia Antone District #2 Meal Referral: District #3 Referrals can be made by a family member, family friend or health care professional. Referrals are submitted to ENP where it is reviewed for eligibility. The participant and district coordinator is then notified of ap-proval or disapproval. Carol Schurz Dale G. Enos Carolyn Williams District #4 Barney B. Enos, Jr. Jennifer Allison Norman Wellington Monica Antone District #5 Robert Stone Franklin Pablo, Sr. Annette J. Stewart Janice Stewart 170 W. Pima Street P.O. Box 956 Sacaton, AZ 85147 Phone: 520-562-9696 Fax: 520-562-9697 E-mail:: Elaine.Patrick@gric.nsn.us District #6 Anthony Villareal, Sr. Albert Pablo Terrance B. Evans District #7 Devin Redbird Robert Keller, Tribal Treasurer Jacqueline Thomas, 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) 562-9718 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 Young business owner spearheading success Continued from Page 1 contract in 2010, Pimmex has done work on homes throughout GRIC, including the installation of air conditioning units and electrical upgrades. The company’s biggest contract to date is the George Webb Housing Subdivision infrastructure in D4. The project, which is 99 percent complete, included building all the foundations of a neighborhood from scratch, such as the streets, sewers, electrical wiring and pavement. The home-building contract for the subdivision has not been awarded but Muñoz insists that Pimmex will be making a bid. Michael Preston, president of the Gila River Business Owners Association, spoke highly of Muñoz’s work and said the young business owner is clearly deserving of the nomination. “He knows whatever work he does is going to reflect on him permanently,” Preston said. “He knows what it means when you build something for your own people.” Pimmex has 22 employees, about half of which are minori- ties. Six are Native American, Muñoz said, including one from Gila River. In addition to GRIC, they have completed work in Chandler, Phoenix, Tolleson and the Salt River Pima-Maricopa Indian Community. The company is even expanding out of state. It was recently awarded a contract to remodel 20 homes for the Comanche Nation in Oklahoma and is also in negotiations for a contract in San Diego. But Muñoz gets the biggest joy out of what he can give back locally. His company has sponsored numerous Community events and done work free of charge for Community elders. “The community outreach for me is the biggest thing,” Muñoz said. “To give back to my community is the accomplishment.” Muñoz has two children, ages 11 and 8, and a supportive fiancée. They live in Queen Creek. He earned his Bachelor’s of Science in Business Management from a program affiliated with Arizona State University. Page 4 Local hip-hop talent pursuing avenues to stardom Brown. Starting with his freshman year in high school, Brown, 26, has four self-produced albums or “street releases” to his credit. He has more material locked inside of him but now he is Roberto A. Jackson/GRIN looking to take a Joey Brown, AKA G.I. Joe, has been a featured big career move. artists on many local hip-hop shows. “What I’m really By Roberto A. Jackson trying to do right now is chase a Gila River Indian News record deal,” said Brown. Brown has been active on the For Joey Brown, hip-hop is local hip-hop scene to bring the a universal art form. He’s taken G.I. Joe experience to a wider authe break beats and musical interdience. ludes and used them to express the Brown’s manager Anthony highs and lows of a young man Stevens credits a May 11 perforfrom District 5 trying to survive mance at Big Fish Pub in Tempe in a crazy world. With the microas a springboard to more opporphone in his hand he is known as tunities. “His performance that G.I. Joe., not the “Real American night turned a lot of heads and Hero,” but an authentic and downstarted getting him noticed,” said to-earth hip-hop artist whose realStevens. istic accounts of life in Gila River Since then he returned to the has started to turn heads among Big Fish Pub on Aug. 3, he’s colother local rappers. laborated with hip-hop crews from “You can always make it San Xavier and he is also gearing without giving up and giving in up for a big show on Aug. 18 at to weakness,” said Brown. His Joe’s Grotto in Phoenix. “Right over-arching lyrical message is now, we’re just trying to continue about relating to people with evthat road, that momentum,” said eryday problems. He raps with Stevens. an elevated consciousness that Brown is a father of two speaks to the talent that sprang up young girls and currently works in the young man back in 1999. for Gila River Health Care. “Hip-hop became my outlet,” said Gila River Indian News August 16, 2013 August 16, 2013 Gila River Indian News Community Updates by GRIN STAFF Here are some regular updates on the on-going issues pertaining to the Gila River Indian Community. Page 5 EPA calls Loop 202 DEIS ‘inadequate,’ says agencies should coordinate more with GRIC The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency analyzed the Draft Environmental Impact Statement for the proposed South Mountain Freeway and rated the study with the agency’s lowest possible mark, echoing many of the concerns of Gila River environmental groups and freeway opponents. Like a teacher marking up a student’s wayward first draft in red ink, the EPA identified what it sees as numerous deficiencies in the DEIS, rating it a Category 3 on its three-point system, citing “inadequate information.” In a letter addressed to Karla Petty of the Federal Highway Administration dated July 23 — a day before the public comment period deadline — the EPA said the DEIS “does not provide the information needed to assess the potential significance of the air quality impacts of the proposed action.” The letter also urges the Ari- zona Department of Transportation and the Federal Highway Administration to continue to coordinate with GRIC to avoid impacts to South Mountain, a sacred site to the Community. Noting how divisive the freeway issue has been within the tribe, the letter says: “While we understand that there may never be one alignment route fully supported by the entire tribal community and government, we encourage ADOT and FHWA to continue to work closely with GRIC to reduce impacts to sacred sites and traditional cultural properties to the greatest extent possible.” Pointedly, the EPA faults the draft study for not specifically disclosing the expected changes in air quality in and around the area of the proposed eight-lane, roughly 22-mile freeway. The project aims to extend the Loop 202 from the Santan interchange Ground breaking held for District 2 Multi-Purpose building Photo Courtesy District 2 The ground breaking ceremony for the District 2 Hashan Kehk Multi-Purpose building took place on July 26 at 6 a.m. Joseph Enos and Tim Terry conducted the blessing. The Hashan Kehk Basket Dancers performed prior to the ground breaking. In attendance were Gov. Gregory Mendoza, Lt. Gov. Stephen Roe Lewis, District 2 Council Representative Carol Schurz, GRIC Departments, staff, contractors, Miss Gila River and other Community members. District 2 is hoping for an August 2014 completion date. Bill seeks to add over 400 acres of land to Casa Grande monument Continued from Page 1 tural significance.” One of the land segments the National Parks Service hopes to absorb is the 196-acre so called “Adamsville site,” which is currently owned by the state of Arizona. It lies approximately four miles east of Coolidge and the Casa Grande Ruins along State Route 287. At first glance, the site looks like an uninteresting patch of desert with a large mound of dirt but underneath, it has been found to possess significant archaeological artifacts. The site contains a prehistoric platform mound and ancient ball court indicating that it was an area of high occupation. A platform mound is a section of raised land that was most likely used for ritual ceremonies but also served as a focal point for community meeting areas like a town plaza. A report released by the THPO regarding another platform mound location says, “Platform mounds played an essential role in the social integration and functioning of prehistoric communities… In addition to being rare, platform mounds play a central role in the creation story of the Akimel O’odham.” The Casa Grande Ruins was set aside as the first federal archeological reserve in 1892. This would be the first time any change has been made to the boundaries of the monument park. The bill is currently being considered by the House Subcommittee on Public Lands and Environmental Regulation. at Pecos Road along the border of GRIC and reconnect to the I-10 at 56th Avenue. “Instead,” the letter says, “the DEIS presented an estimated value of emissions that combines the impact of the new freeway alignment with emissions from the adjacent, and existing, I-10 freeway. This methodology does not provide the information needed to disclose, analyze and potentially mitigate the actual emissions anticipated from a new highway segment.” Without detailed information about how the freeway would affect the areas immediately surrounding it, GRIC would not be able to make informed decisions about future land use or health impacts for areas that border the proposed freeway, the EPA letter continues. In addition, the EPA says the study still needs to address questions about whether the proposed freeway meets the requirements of the Clean Air Act and disclose potential “hotspots” where particulate matter may exceed 10 microns in diameter (known as PM10). It further calls for the study team to conduct a “robust air toxics risk assessment.” The DEIS, which cost approximately $22 million to put together over 12 years, is silent on these issues. “They’re simply recommendations from the EPA,” said Timothy Tait, assistant communication director for ADOT. “We’re evaluating those comments and we’ll incorporate what we think is appropriate into the final document.” The EPA recommends the ADOT along with the Federal Highway Administration distribute this information in a Supplemental DEIS for public comment, offering to review the supplemen- tal studies and provide feedback before they are published. Presumably this would be released before the Final EIS, which is expected sometime in 2014. EPA is required to analyze and grade any environmental impact statement that involves federal funding. Will ADOT consider releasing a Supplemental DEIS? “That hasn’t been determined yet,” Tait said. Other EPA criticisms of the DEIS include its use of pre-recession population growth projections and an absence of complete traffic information. Gila River Alliance for a Clean Environment joined a coalition of community groups that criticized the DEIS for many of the same issues. To receive a Category 3 mark, a proposed project must be deemed to “not adequately [assess] potentially significant environmental impacts of the action.” Page 6 August 16, 2013 Gila River Indian News “Blowing down barriers one note at a time” A new exhibit honoring Akimel O’otham jazz musician Russell Moore. The exhibit will feature his trombone and music. Opening Event: Thursday, September 19, 2013 6pm – 9pm Join us for a night of celebration! For more info contact: Huhugam Heritage Center 4759 N. Maricopa Rd. Chandler, AZ 85226 (520) 796-3500 August 16, 2013 Page 7 Health & Wellness Sports Banquet held in D1 Photo Courtesy of the Beeliners Beeliners make NABI debut Jessica Lopez/CPAO Tribal Recreation held the 1st Annual GRIC Tribal Recreation Sports Banquet, The Beeliner Girls basketball team entered for the first time into the Native American which was held on Aug. 9 at the District 1 Multi-Purpose Building. Basketball Invitational Tournament (NABI) in July. We would like to thank friends and family for making a donation for the girls to participate. A big ‘thank you’ to District One Recreation for the use of your building for the team practices. The Beeliners consisted of girls from District 1 to 5. After pool play, they played one game in the Silver Bracket. Thank you to the parents and grandparents for encouraging the girls to keep playing, running and preparing for NABI. The team coaches were Eddie Lucero, District 4, and Ronald Paul, District 3. 2013 All Native Men’s Basketball Tournament Gila River Wellness Center Celebrates National Kids Day in Sacaton Twelve kids came out early on Sunday, August 04, 2013 to take part in the 4th Annual Gila River Youth Fitness Run. Ages ranged from 17 years to toddler walkers. Each individual participated in their race category from .5 to 3 miles. This event is a part of the Wellness Center Summer Youth Program for youth our mission is to prevent childhood obesity in our community. Thank you for our volunteers- Parents-Guardian, Gila River Police, Gila River Animal Control who assisted to making this event a safe for all our participants. B. Villanueva 6 yrs & Under 1st Place Female Time:10:30:00 .5 Mile T. Lyons 6 yrs & Under 2nd Place Male Time: 13:10:00 .5 Mile J.. Villanueva 6 yrs & Under 1st Place Male Time: 11:51:00 .5 Mile D. Olivar 10-12 yrs 1st Place Male Time: 18:50:00 1.5 Mile NOT PICTURED L. Montoya 6 yrs & Under 2nd Place Female Time:11:45:00 .5 Mile A. Quiyo 7-9 yrs 1st Place Female Time: 23:50:00 1 Mile A. Casoose 13-17 yrs 1st Place Male Time: 23:50:00 5k C. Casoose 13-17 yrs 2nd Place Male Time: 25:09:00 5k T. Reed 13-17 yrs 3rd Place Male Time: 26:52:00 5k Aryel Preston– Quiyo 7-9 yrs 2nd Place Female Time: 27:45:00 +++++++++++ Lilliyn Allison 7-9 yrs 3rd Place Female Time: 27:46:00 C. Kisto 13-17 yrs 1st Place Female Time: 35:24:00 5k The Brandon G. Enos Educational Foundation is proud to announce the results of the 2013 All Native Men’s Basketball Tournament. Held at the Sacaton Boys and Girls Club Gymnasium on August 9-10, 2013. Championship: Lost Reds (Fort McDowell) 2nd Place:Komatke Kings 3rd Place:Blue Devils Most Valuable Player: #30 – Roman Lost Reds All Tournament Team: 1. #25 – Thomas Komatke Kings 2. #23 – Thomas Lost Reds 3. #23 – Jackie Komatke Kings 4. #30 – Andrew Blue Devils 5. #15 – Pete Mixed Tribes We would like to thank the sponsors of our tournament, Gila River Indian Community Utility Authority, Gila River Telecommunications Inc., Gila River Sand and Gravel, Gila River Farms and Henry Brown Automotive Group, Glenn Jones Ford, Lincoln LLLP. K&S Sports Promotions, Inc., Minkus Advertising Special ties. Thanks to all of the teams for their participation, all of those who came to watch the tournament and all of the volunteers. Page 8 Tribal Education Department “Maschahamdud a Jeniktha” Tribal Ed. hosts reservation wide teacher in-service Mikhail Sundust/GRIN Jacob Moore (Arizona Board of Education) thanked the GRIC educators for their dedication at the 9th Annual Reservationwide Teacher In-Service. By Mikhail Sundust Gila River Indian News The 9th Annual ReservationWide Teacher In-Service was a hit. “It seems like it’s highly organized,” said Gila Crossing Community School teacher Richard Smith, who remarked that the Tribal Education Department “took it up a notch” this year. “People are participating… and the presenters…had high energy and seem like they believe in what they’re doing, and that makes a big difference to me.” Gov. Gregory Mendoza opened the in-service, which gave students a day off Aug. 9. “This year, I challenge you to ‘Elevate Education,’” he said, quoting the theme of the conference. “My goal for the Community is to build self-reliant, responsible Community members,” he said, and, reiterating his number one priority as Governor, “Education is our pathway to self-reliance.” Jacob Moore, a member of the Arizona State Board of Education and Tribal Relations Coordinator with Arizona State University, gave the keynote address. “As tribal governments begin to establish economic rehabilitation and follow the goals of self-governance,” he said, “gone should be the days of using education as a tool to assimilate our children into the main stream.” Rather, he said, education should be “a tool to make our tribal nations stronger.” Although it’s not a mandatory training, over 450 educators participated in the event. The in-service offered over a dozens work sessions on a broad range of topics in education. They included: “Challenging Classroom Behaviors” led by TED’s Gale Rawson, GRHC’s “Understanding Mental Health Challenges for Adolescents” presented by Michael Rhinehart and Jaime Arthur, “Suicide Prevention Using QPR (Questions, Persuade, Refer)” taught by Sania Sobo and “The Contribution of Ceremony Regarding the Akimel O’odham World View” led by TED’s Dallas DeLowe. TED Director Mario Molina led a session called “Culture and Language Development for Core Subjects,” in which he discussed the potential use of the new Common Core Standards to teach subjects through a lens of O’odham culture, tradition, geography and history. Usually a teacher in-service is organized by and provided for a single school district. What’s unique about the GRIC In-Service is it pulls educators from schools in multiple districts and school types (charter, private, public, parochial, etc.) into one large meeting, the common denominator being that each school associates directly with the Gila River Indian Community Tribal Education Department. “Because we’re not a school district, we don’t see each other but once a year,” said Molina. He emphasized that the GRIC In-Service provides a valuable networking experience for Gila River teachers and school staff members from a variety of backgrounds. “We’ve opened up those doors and it’s a community feeling now. We’re all in this together,” said Molina. The in-service was held at the Sheraton Wild Horse Pass Resort. August 16, 2013 Mikhail Sundust/GRIN Ira Hayes H.S. freshman Gabriel Miguel recorded an intro segment for CBS-5 meteorologist Jason Kadah, which aired Aug. 10. CBS-5 meteorologist presents at Ira Hayes High School By Mikhail Sundust Gila River Indian News Students at Ira Hayes High School got a special presentation from a local news channel Aug. 7. Jason Kadah, a meteorologist for CBS-5 News in Phoenix, stopped by the school to show the students what he does on a day-today basis and what it takes to be a TV weatherman. “It’s really about your ability to present in front of people,” he said. Science, math and reading are all important elements of being a good meteorologist, “but confidence is key. Don’t be afraid to get up and talk in front of a group.” Kadah has been a meteorologist for 15 years; three of those have been with CBS-5 News in Phoenix. He talked to the students about the differences between high and low-pressure systems, what a cold front is and what a jet stream does. He also demonstrated how tornadoes are formed and explained why hurricanes are a necessary part of the earth’s ecosystem. After his presentation, he turned on his camera and handed the students the microphone bearing the CBS logo. A handful of the teens and one staff member volunteered to give a weather report that Kadah used on his newscast Saturday, Aug. 10. You can watch a video of the broadcast at KPHO. com; search “Ira Hayes.” Ira Hayes freshman Gabriel Miguel recorded an intro for the news channel, which Kadah used to introduce his weather forecast segment on Saturday. Kadah noted on-air that he learned something from his visit to the Gila River Indian Community, that the O’odham word for “haboob” is “jegos.” August 16, 2013 Page 9 Announcements & Notices Special guests visit Sacaton Library Roberto A. Jackson/GRIN From Left: Eloy Library Director Rus Ketcham, Eloy City Councilwoman Belinda Akes and Ira H. Hayes Librarian Ramona Tecumseh at the Ira H. Hayes Memorial Library on Aug. 9 in Sacaton. Ketcham and Akes, who is also the Eloy Executive Chamber of Commerce, were invited by Gov. Gregory Mendoza to visit Sacaton. “I got some great ideas to take back,” said Akes of her visit with Tecumseh. “I love seeing this library,” said Ketcham. PUBLIC NOTICE Bureau of Indian Affairs, Pima Agency Gila River Indian Community Environmental Assessment for a Telecommunications Lease at Estrella Mountain The Bureau of Indian Affairs (BIA) Pima Agency is releasing a Public Notice for a proposed Environmental Assessment ( EA) to evaluate the potential impacts of Antenna Sites, Inc. (ASI) entering into a new telecommunications lease with Pima Leasing and Financing Corporation (PLFC) for facilities located on Hayes Peak in the Sierra Estella Mountain Range (Estrella Mountain) in the vicinity of Komatke, Arizona. ASI has leased the facilities from the Gila River Indian Community (Community)since the 1970s through the renewal of several 5-year leases. ASI owns and maintains the facilities which are operated by tenants who sublease the facilities from ASI. The National Environmental Policy Act (NEPA) requires federal agencies to address the potential environmental consequences of proposed actions as well as solicit comments from local, state, and federal agencies, Indian tribes, and interested members of the public during their decision-making process. Because BIA is a federal agency, an EA is required to comply with NEPA. The EA will address any potential impacts resulting from development of the project. Project Description PLFC was established in 2010 to oversee the leasing of tribal land on behalf of the Community, including Hayes Peak. There are three communications towers supporting microwave dishes and two-way radio antennas, transmitters and battery banks, propane generators, small wind turbines, solar generating panels, an on ground power line easement, and existing helipads located on Hayes Peak whose lease has expired. No access roads serve the peak and access is possible only by helicopter or by hiking in to the site. This project would establish a new lease with an option for the facilities on the peak. Purpose and Need The most recent lease for the telecommunication facilities expired in February 20 I 3. Due to the cultural significance of Estrella Mountain, the BIA is requiring that an EA be completed for the new lease. The EA will provide an environmental review of the site, present the project, and disclose associated environmental consequences that may result from operations and maintenance of the facilities on the peak. Public Comment Period As part of the NEPA process, you are invited to provide written comments on the proposed action. All comments received become part of the public record associated with this action. Accordingly, your comments (including name and address) will be available for review by any person that wishes to view the record. At your request we will withhold your name and address to the extent allowed by Freedom of Information Act or any other law. Please submit any written comments you may have within 30 days or by August 16, 2013 to the following individual by mail or fax: Cecilia Martinez, Superintendent Bureau of Indian Affairs. Pima Agency P.O. Box 8 Sacaton. Arizona 8514 7 Telephone Number: (520) 562-3326 Fax: (520) 562-3543 Public Notification IN THE COURT OF THE GILA RIVER INDIAN COMMUNITY IN THE COUNTIES OF PINAL AND MARICOPA IN THE STATE OF ARIZONA IN THE MATTER OF: J. M. NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN THAT PETITIONERS a Petition for the Termination of Parental Rights of James Molina. AN ANSWER/RESPONSE HEARING HAS BEEN SET BY THE SACATON CHILDREN’S COURT TO CONSIDER THE PETITIONS: DATE: Thursday, August 6, 2013 TIME: 10:00 a.m., LOCATION: Sacaton Children’s Court, 721 West Seed Farm Road, Sacaton, Arizona 85147. NOTICE: You have a right to appear as a party in this proceeding. The failure of a parent to appear at the Initial Hearing, the Pretrial Conference, the Status Conference or the Termination Adjudication Hearing may result in an adjudication terminating the parent-child relationship of that parent. A COPY OF THE PETITION TO TERMINATE AND PETITION TO ADOPT may be obtained from the Clerk of the Children’s Court at 721 West Seed Farm Road in Sacaton, Arizona 85147 or from Petitioner’s Attorney at the Rothstein Law Firm, 80 East Rio Salado Parkway, Tempe, AZ 85281, Phone 480-921-9296. Public Notification KEVIN MERCADO Review Hearing Case #: J-08-1004/1005 Court Date: November 18, 2013 at 9 a.m. in Courtroom #2, 1st Floor. FAILURE TO APPEAR CAN AFFECT YOUR RIGHTS Jurisdiction: Salt River Pima Maricopa Indian Community Court Address: 10005 E. Osborn Rd. Scottsdale, AZ 85256 Contact: (480) 362-6315 Heather Jefferies Court Clerk 480-362-2721 heather.jefferies@srpmic-nsn.gov Public Notification 1. GAIL BROWN, Permanency Hearing Case J-10-0121/0122 Court Date: September 10 2013 at 1 p.m. in Courtroom #2, 1st Floor. FAILURE TO APPEAR CAN AFFECT YOUR RIGHTS Jurisdiction: Salt River Pima Maricopa Indian Community Court Address: 10005 E. Osborn Rd. Scottsdale, AZ 85256 Contact: (480) 362-6315 Public Notification IN THE GILA RIVER INDIAN COMMUNITY COURT STATE OF ARIZONA JULIE HILL, Plaintiff/Petitioner, vs. LEONARD MCINTOSH, Defendant/Respondent. TO: Leonard Mcintosh Post Office Box 1168 Bapchule, Arizona 85147 CASE Number: CV-2013-0098 CIVIL SUMMONS YOU ARE HEREBY NOTIFIED, that a civil action has been filed against you in the Gila River Indian Community Court. YOU shall respond at an ANSWER/ RESPONSE HEARING regarding this matter on the following date and time at the place set forth below: Sacaton Community Court 721 West Seed Farm Road Sacaton, Arizona 85147 (520)562-9860 DATE: Monday, September 09,2013 Time: 11:00 AM YOU may respond in writing. However, even if you do so, your presence at the Answer/Response Hearing is still required. If a written answer or response is made, it shall be filed and served before the date of the hearing, unless the time is extended by order of the Court. If you fail to appear and defend, judgment by default will be entered against you for the relief demanded in the complaint or petition. Page 10 August 16, 2013 Community Council Action Sheets Wednesday, Aug. 7, 2013 ACTION SHEET Community Council; PO Box 2138; Sacaton, Arizona 85147; Phone (520) 5629720; Fax (520) 562-9729 CALL TO ORDER The First Regular Monthly Meeting of the Community Council held Wednesday, August 7, 2013, in the Community Council Chambers at the Governance Center in Sacaton, Arizona was called to order by presiding Chairman Governor Gregory Mendoza at 9:11 a.m. INVOCATION Provided by Councilwoman Annette Stewart ROLL CALL Sign-in Sheet Circulated Executive Officers Present: Governor Gregory Mendoza Lt. Governor Stephen R. Lewis Council Members Present: D1- Cynthia Antone, Arzie Hogg; D2-Carol Schurz; D3-Dale G. Enos (9:15), Carolyn Williams; D4- Monica Antone, Jennifer Allison, Barney Enos, Jr. (9:45), Norman Wellington; D5-Annette J. Stewart, Franklin Pablo, Sr., Robert Stone; D6-Albert Pablo (9:11), Anthony Villareal, Sr. (9:14), Terrance B. Evans; D7- Devin Redbird (2:00) Council Members Absent: D5- Janice F. Stewart APPROVAL OF AGENDA APPROVED AS AMENDED OATH OF OFFICE CEREMONY 1. Jacqueline Thomas, Council Secretary Presenter: Chief Judge Anthony Hill CHIEF JUDGE ANTHONY HILL DELIVERED THE OATH OF OFFICE TO MS. JACQUELINE THOMAS (15-minute reception to follow in the lobby) [GOVERNOR GREGORY MENDOZA CALLED FOR A 15-MINUTE BREAK RECONVENED AT 9:41AM] REPORTS 1. Blackwater Community School Tribal Allocation 3rd Quarter Progress Report Presenter: Jacquelyn Power REPORT HEARD 2. Vechij Himdag Mashhchamakud Tribal Allocation 3rd Quarter Progress Report Presenter: Lillian K. Franklin REPORT HEARD 3. Gila Crossing Community School Tribal Allocation 3rd Quarter Progress Report Presenter: Jeff Williamson REPORT HEARD 4. St. Peters Indian Mission School Tribal Allocation 3rd Quarter Progress Report Presenter: S. Martha Carpenter REPORT HEARD 5. Ira H. Hayes High School Tribal Allocation 3rd Quarter Progress Report Presenter: Fred Ringlero REPORT HEARD 6. Gila River Health Care FY13 SemiAnnual Tobacco Tax Report Presenter: Bonita Lyons REPORT HEARD 7. Gila River Health Care Annual Report Addendum Presenter: Bonita Lyons REPORT HEARD 8. Huhugam Heritage Center Russell Moore Exhibit Event Presenters: Holy Metz, Reylynne Williams REPORT HEARD 9. CEOT Completion Status Report July 2013 Presenter: Dale Gutenson MOTION MADE AND SECOND TO TABLE RESOLUTIONS *1. A Resolution Approving And Authorizing Amendment No. 1 To The October 1, 2012 Agreement Between The Gila River Indian Community And Towers Watson Delaware, Inc. (G&MSC forwards to Council with recommendation for approval) Presenters: Treasurer Robert G. Keller, Sharon Harvier-Lewis MOTION MADE AND SECOND TO DISPENSE 2. A Resolution Rescinding GR-19-01 Which Approved A Fifty (50) Year Homesite Assignment Agreement For Derwin Stevens, And Approving A Continuation Of The Fifty Year Homesite Assignment Agreement For Joseph Stevens, Located In District Four Of The Gila River Indian Reservation And Designated As Drawing No.30413-0315 (NRSC forwards Thomas introduced as new Council Secretary Mikhail Sundust/GRIN Jacqueline Thomas (District 7) was sworn in as the new Community Council Secretary at the regular Council Meeting Wednesday, August 7. Thomas brings with her more than 18 years of experience working at a private law firm in Phoenix and a Bachelor’s of Science Degree in Administration of Justice from Arizona State University. “I’m looking forward to the challenges and learning about the operations of the Council,” she said of her new, appointed position. She hopes to leave her mark “streamlining” CCSO’s operations by implementing more updated technologies. to Council with recommendation for approval) Presenter: Pamela Pasqual APPROVED 3. A Resolution Approving The Assignment Of Business Lease BL00090772 From LDR-Zenith Maricopa Pavilions LLC, To Maricopa-Zenith L.L.C.; Approving The Settlement Agreement And Mutual Release Between The Gila River Indian Community And Maricopa-Zenith, L.L.C.; And Approving The Assignment Of Business Lease Number BL00090772 From Maricopa-Zenith L.L.C. To Pima Leasing & Financing Corporation LLC (NRSC forwards to Council with recommendation for approval; EDSC concurs Including completed material) Presenters: Ron Rosier, Linus Everling, Denten Robinson APPROVED 4. A Resolution Approving The Third Amendment And Fourth Amendment To Business Lease BL00102007 A Lease Between Certain Allotted Landowners Of Land And Within The Gila River Indian Community, The Gila River Indian Community, And Pecos & 40TH St.-Zenith, LLC, And Approving a Substitute Lease (NRSC forwards to Council with recommendation for approval; EDSC concurs Including completed material) Presenters: Ron Rosier, Linus Everling, Denten Robinson APPROVED 5. A Resolution Approving A Mutual Aid Agreement Between The Gila River Indian Community And The Arizona Department Of Public Safety (LSC forwards to Council with recommendation for approval) Presenters: Edward Alameda, Nada Celaya, Michael Carter APPROVED 6. A Resolution Authorizing the Casino Expansion Owner’s Team To Undertake Additional Capital Projects Related to the Vee Quiva Hotel And Casino And Other Gaming Related Projects (EDSC forwards to Council with recommendation for approval) Presenters: Ron Rosier, Dale Gutenson, Treasurer Robert Keller TABLED AT APPROVAL OF AGENDA ORDINANCES 1. The Gila River Indian Community Council Hereby Amends Title 17, Chapter 5 Of The Gila River Indian Community Code, “Adult Protective Services,” To Add A Definition Of The Term “Adult” As Section 17.501(A)(7) (LSC forwards to Council with recommendation for approval) Presenters: Thomas Murphy, Rebecca Hall APPROVED UNFINISHED BUSINESS 1. Appointment of Gila River Sand & Gravel Board of Directors Two (2) Presenters: Reviewing Committee GORDON DOMINGO AND JEWEL WHITMAN APPOINTED 2. Appointment of Gila River Health Care Corporation Board of Directors One (1) Presenters: Reviewing Committee MYRON SCHURZ APPOINTED 3. Appointment of Gila River Indian Community Utility Authority Board of Directors One (1) Presenters: Reviewing Committee ALTHEA WALKER APPOINTED 4. Gila Crossing Community School Update 60-day Review (ESC forwards to Council under Unfinished Business) Presenter: Jeff Williamson MOTION MADE AND SECOND TO ACCEPT AS FYI 5. El Paso Gas Team Vacancy (CRSC forwards to Council with recommendation to appointed Carol Schurz) Presenter: Monica Antone COUNCILWOMAN CAROL SCHURZ APPOINTED 6. Sacaton Peak Gila River Indian Community And Central Arizona College License Agreement – Draft (EDSC forwards to Council with recommendation for approval) Presenter: Elizabeth Antone TABLED AT APPROVAL OF AGENDA NEW BUSINESS 1. St. Peters Indian Mission School Tribal Allocation Written Plan SY2013/2014 (ESC forwards to Council with recommendation for approval) Presenter: S. Martha Carpenter APPROVED 2. Blackwater Community School Tribal Allocation Written Plan SY2013/2014 (ESC forwards to Council with recommendation for approval) Presenter: Jacquelyn Power DISPENSED AT APPROVAL OF AGENDA 3. Vechij Himdag Mashhchamakud Alternative School Inc. Tribal Allocation Written Plan SY2013/2014 (ESC forwards to Council with recommendation for approval) Presenter: Lillian K. Franklin APPROVED 4. Sacaton Middle School Tribal Allocation Written Plan SY2013/2014 (ESC forwards to Council with recommendation for approval) Presenter: Philip Bonds APPROVED 5. School Construction for the Gila River Indian Community’s Grant Schools (ESC forwards to Council) Presenter: Mario Molina TABLED AT APPROVAL OF AGENDA 6. Four Tribes Meeting Delegation Authorization Presenters: Community Council MOTION MADE AND SECOND TO AUTHORIZE COMMUNITY COUNCIL TO TRAVEL TO THE FOUR TRIBES MEETING AUGUST 16, 2013 THROUGH AUGUST 18, 2013 MINUTES ANNOUNCEMENTS >SPECIAL EDUCATION STANDING COMMITTEE MEETING AUGUST 8, 2013, 9:00AM, TRIBAL EDUCATION DEPARTMENT >AS FYI COUNCILWOMAN CAROL SCHURZ AND COUNCILWOMAN CYNTHIA ANTONE INTERVIEWED BY FOX NEWS >THANKS EXPRESSED TO THOSE THAT ATTENDED PRESIDENT OBAMA’S SPEECH >THANKS EXPRESSED TO COUNCILMAN REDBIRD AND COUNCILWOMAN WILLIAMS FOR ATTENDING IGA MEETING IN SEDONA >NEXT IGA MEETING SEPTEMBER 20, 2013 AT VEE QUIVA HOTEL & CASINO ADJOURNMENT MEETING ADJOURNED AT 2:22PM * Denotes TABLED from previous meeting(s) August 16, 2013 Gila River Indian News Page 11 Group hopes to change attitudes toward gay community Joshua Jovanelly/GRIN Members of Helping O’odham Pursue Equality are seeking to expand understanding and acceptance of the GLBTQ community. By Joshua Jovanelly Gila River Indian News Neila Banketewa is a lesbian and she’s proud of it. On Aug. 7, she was preparing to attend a meeting that night for Helping O’odham Pursue Equality, or H.O.P.E., a gay advocacy and support group in the Gila River Indian Community. Banketewa posted a reminder about the meeting on her personal Facebook page, encouraging her gay friends and straight supporters to come get involved in the budding organization. “Keep that [expletive] to yourself if you’re proud of what you’re about,” one male commenter responded. Banketewa read the comment aloud later that night to the 17 people in attendance at the District 2 Service Center for H.O.P.E.’s monthly meeting. Hateful outbursts against the GLBTQ — short for gay, lesbian, bisexual, transgender and questioning — community are all too common. The online comment was both an example of the attitude H.O.P.E. wants to eradicate in GRIC as well as motivation for solidarity among an often-marginalized group of Community members. “It just pushes us harder to make sure that we get established, make sure that our plans are in stone,” Banketewa said. Although it was established in September 2010, H.O.P.E. has picked up a ton of momentum in the last six months and is working toward becoming a formally recognized, Council-sanctioned Community organization. The group’s mission statement reads: “We are dedicated to promoting positive support and educational awareness for the Gay, Lesbian, Bisexual, Transgender and Questioning O’odham/ Pee Posh community members of the Gila River Indian Community.” H.O.P.E. has already made history by becoming the first-ever GLBTQ entry in this past year’s Mul-Chu-Tha parade, which founder and chairperson Keith Kisto called “a very empowering and emotional moment for us” because it was like their “coming out” to the Community. Kisto said the Community on the whole was “very welcoming.” The group also participated in the Casa Grande March for Equality, where the response was more mixed. “We had people cussing at us, flipping us off, giving us a piece of their mind,” Kisto said. “But aside from that we had a lot of good feedback as well, people cheering us on, honking, giving us thumbs up.” More exposure opportunities occurred at the Phoenix Gay Pride Parade in April and at the Gila River Youth Conference in July, where H.O.P.E. shared an informational booth with GRHC Behavioral Health, which runs a youth GLBTQ support organization known as L.O.V.E., Letting Others Value Equality. All of these activities were firsts for a gay organization from Gila River. National attitudes and acceptance toward the gay community have evolved rapidly over the last few decades, and continue to do so. In June, the U.S. Supreme Court struck down a federal law that defined marriage as between a man and a woman. Thirteen states and the District of Columbia currently allow gays to legally marry. But locally, the story can be much different. H.O.P.E. members say GRIC lags behind offreservation communities in accepting the GLBTQ lifestyle. At the meeting, some members said they often found greater acceptance outside the Community, such as when they went off reservation for high school. H.O.P.E. concedes that things are continuing to improve — and have improved plenty since when some of the older members were growing up — but there are many negative attitudes still out there that it intends to confront. Iann Austin, H.O.P.E.’s secretary, says he realizes some people object to homosexuality on religious or moral grounds. He’s not trying to change people’s beliefs, but rather to build a bridge to understanding. “It sounds really cliché but we’re your brothers and your sisters and your aunts and your uncles and your cousins and your kids,” Austin said. “So I think that’s one big thing — we’re connecting people.” Those connections have prompted straight supporters to the join group. Yet even those that simply support the gay cause are not always immune to abuse. “With supporters like myself, we get made fun of,” Justin Enos said. People questioned whether he was gay after he attended his first meeting. “I said, ‘No, I’m here to support my friends because they supported me. I’m going to their meetings and they’re going to always be my friends,’” Enos said. H.O.P.E.’s meeting locations rotate among the seven districts — they have yet to hit D5 and D7 — and they continue to gain popularity through outreach on Facebook and other social media sites. Of the 17 people attending the August meeting, five were there for the first time. “I’m glad you guys are all here. And come back, bring some more people,” said co-chair Angela Santos, who joined earlier in the year. Before a closing prayer, the meetings wrap up with an open discussion where members can talk about common challenges, vent frustrations or seek out advice. Members shared varying coming out experiences — some were hated or shunned by family, others openly accepted — or struggles they’ve faced helping friends who were contemplating suicide. Erik Kisto, H.O.P.E.’s treasurer and Keith’s brother, had advice for people victimized by teasing. “Don’t take it to heart,” Erik said. “Because yeah words hurt, but those people that say those words, they’re hurting inside.” There was plenty of optimism shared as well, as the acceptance of the gay rights movement continue to make strides that would have been considered impossible just a few years ago. “Right now I’m more free,” Banketewa said. “I can hold my girlfriend’s hand in public, I can kiss her in public and anything I want to do that a man and woman can do in public, I can do with her. And I feel better.” Serving the Gila River Community •Evenings and Saturday appointments •Oral Surgery and Sedation available •FREE BLEACHING FOR LIFE! •On time appointments •State of the Art Office •Easy Financing available •Family, Cosmetic & Implant Dentistry •Se Habla Español •Preferred Provider of Gila River Dental Insurance & Don’t Wait! Most other plans. 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Power Rd, Suite #128 Gilbert, AZ 85297 ZZZSRZHUUDQFKGHQWDOFRP 148 ANNUAL MUSTERING IN TH DAY CELEBRATION SATURDAY, SEPTEMBER 7, 2013 FREE ADMISSION, FAMILY FRIENDLY EVENT GILA RIVER INDIAN COMMUNITY’S DISTRICT 7 PARK | 8035 S. 83RD AVENUE, LAVEEN AZ 85339 (83RD AVENUE, SOUTH OF BASELINE) | GENERAL INFORMATION, PLEASE CALL (520) 430-4780 - 5K RUN, FAMILY FUN WALK - PARADE - CHAIR VOLLEYBALL TOURNAMENT - SOFTBALL TOURNAMENT - BASKETBALL TOURNAMENT - HORSESHOE TOURNAMENT - KIDS GAMES, CRAFTS, INFLATABLES - TRADITIONAL ENTERTAINMENT - VENDORS: FOOD, CRAFT/MERCHANDISE - FUN RUN/WALK - LIVE CHICKEN SCRATCH (WAILA) BAND: MUMSIGO TRIBE (TOHONO O’ODHAM NATION) GILA RIVER INDIAN COMMUNITY, DISTRICT SEVEN AND PLANNING COMMITTEES SHALL NOT BE HELD RESPONSIBLE FOR BODILY INJURY, THEFT OR DAMAGES INCURRED DURING THE MUSTERING IN DAY CELEBRATION.
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