'New Home for Our Children'

December 2012 www.gilariver.org/news Vol. 15, No. 12 Change Service Requested Change Service S P. River IndianGila News acaton, O . B o ‘New home for x 459 A our children’ Z 85147 Residential Programs for Youth breaks ground on new facility in Sacaton Team Member and former Gover- By Roberto A. Jackson nor Mary Thomas. Gila River Indian News “The occasion of initiating The Gila River Indian Commu- construction on a new home for nity has held many groundbreak- our children is indeed a cause for ings in 2012. Gold-tipped spades P

celebration,” said Gov. Gregory r Permit No. 25 Sta U.S. Postage S e have pecked the earth several times Mendoza. acaton, s P n A this year. Each occasion special, o

Director of GRIC Tribal Proj- da I D each facility much anticipated. r A ects Development Wilfred Brown r ted Z A couple weeks prior to said the new shelter would have a d

Thanksgiving, another ground- “neighborhood environment.” breaking heralded the beginning of The construction will consist one more “long-time coming” proj- of five units of roughly 55,000 ect. square feet to be completed in Q & A with author Residential Programs for Youth eight to then months. (RPY), the Community’s shelter for A multipurpose building is Sherman Alexie children, dug in their shovels in Sa- also included to support residents caton as their new facility begins and RPY administration. Every- construction. thing will be enclosed on seven “RPY has gone through chang- acres. es throughout the years,” said Youth “We understand that we have Development Specialist II Sonia over 200 of our children placed Duarte. “And I believe this change in various homes throughout the today is going to be the change that Roberto A. Jackson/GRIN state of Arizona,” Mendoza said. Adrian grabs a hard hat and participates in the groundbreaking we’ve been asking for.” “It’s great that we’ll be able to ceremony for the Residential Programs for Youth’s new facility. The previous building had out- bring them home.” lived its use according to Owner’s Environmental group seeks transition from NGS Mikhail Sundust/GRIN (NGS), a 2,250-megawatt coal-fired Sherman Alexie at Mesa Dob- power plant that has been operating son High School reading from in Page since 1969. his latest book, “Blasphemy.” NGS provides 95 percent of the electricity needed to pump water By GRIN Staff through the Central Arizona Proj- Gila River Indian News ect, in addition to electricity to parts The always-snarky and ev- of Arizona, California and Nevada. er-irreverent author Sherman Gila River’s water rights won under Alexie stopped by Dobson High the Arizona Water Settlement Act School in Mesa while promot- depends on the energy from NGS as ing his new work “Blasphemy,” well. NGS’s lease expires in 2019, a collection of new short stories with an option to renew for 25 more mixed with old classics. years. Before he spoke to the crowd, The power facility is at the heart Alexie spoke backstage with the of a multi-sided controversy made GRIN’s Joshua Jovanelly and more complex by the impending Mikhail Sundust. Questions and Environmental Protection Agency’s answers were edited for brevity stricter emissions standards, a ruling and clarity. that is expected by early 2013 (how Q: What went into selecting soon NGS would have to implement the old stories and then mixing those tighter standards is unclear). those in with the new? How did NGS operators say updating the Joshua Jovanelly/GRIN that work? emission controls would cost $1.1 A: It’s interesting with the The Kayenta coal mine, located on the Navajo Nation, feeds coal to the Navajo Generating billion, a price tag that threatens to old ones, the first five or six are Station, which is the power plant at the center of a nationwide environmental controversy. either close down the plant or drive pretty easy, and then my editor Second in a two-part series exploring the many impacts of the Navajo Generating Station near Page, Ariz. up energy costs. and I actually got struggling try- Gearon and the Black Mesa ing to figure it out. Because we By Joshua Jovanelly perus to north, Mount Blanca in For Navajo like Jihan Water Coalition want to see a tran- Gila River Indian News the east and Mount Taylor in the Gearon, traditions like these had our favorites and we argued sition away from fossil fuel-based a bit about that. Then we went out south. speak to the uniqueness of her energy sources to renewables, like PAGE and KAYENTA, Ariz. and asked a bunch of people what Navajo traditions do not tribe’s culture and the reverence solar and wind. To Gearon, NGS — The Navajo Nation is a sprawl- they wanted, and the answers tell of any migration across the owed to their land. Gearon, ex- is not just an unsustainable energy ing expanse of massive mesas and were so varied it was of no use Bering Strait into the Americas. ecutive director of the Black source. It also represents an inequi- open desert that sits within the Four Rather, the Navajo believe they Mesa Water Coalition, believes whatsoever. So we ended up sort Sacred Mountains: the San Francis- simply emerged from the womb both continue to be threatened Continued on Page 10 Continued on Page 13 co Peaks to the west, Mount Hes- of this sacred perimeter. by the Navajo Generating Station

Inside The GRIN Culture & History.....Page 14 Letters & Opinions.....Page 3 GRIN Kids...... Page 15 Health & Wellness.....Page 7 Education...... Page 16-17 Action Sheets.....Page 18-19 Law & Order.....Page 8 Announcements & Youth & Elder...... Page 9 Notices...... Page 21 Page 2 Gila River Indian News December 2012

Christmas and New Year’s Message

By Governor Gregory Mendoza

As the Christmas holiday season begins, I encourage all Community members and employees to reflect upon the true meaning of Christmas. Faith, hope, peace, love, gratitude, joy and many other positive attributes are associated with the Christian meaning of Christmas and the birth of the Christian savior, Jesus Christ.

Being mindful of these positive attributes, as individuals and employees, can help shape our thoughts, choices, decisions, and actions in ways that contribute to the realization of Christmas in our Community everyday during the holiday season and perhaps throughout the upcoming New Year. Some of the ways we can capture the true meaning of Christmas in our Community and in our workplaces include contributing to a toy drive for needy children which helps create love and joy in the Community. Adopting a child or family to provide gifts to or a meal for instills hope, peace and a sense of community or connection in the truest sense of the word. Participating in holiday related work events brings people together and provides an opportunity for each of us to embody and have faith, hope, peace love, gratitude and joy in ourselves and for each other.

During this season of eternal peace, let us be mindful of the simple gifts we can give of ourselves and to each other: words of encouragement, a smile, a hug, or a prayer. The celebration and remembrance of the birth of Christ reminds us that we all are our brothers’ keepers. We are a community in our Community, whether our community is one of family, neighbors, friends, or co-workers. During this holiday season and in our individual moments of peace and gratitude, we can be grateful for all that is true, good and pure in our lives, while remaining mindful that we are not yet where we want to be, but we have made significant strides as a Community, as a workforce and as individuals.

Our work is not yet done, but for now during this holiday season, let us remember the blessings that grace our lives and try to extend the blessings of faith, hope, peace, love, gratitude and joy to others in our lives. My very best wishes for a Merry Christmas to each Community member and employee during this season of eternal peace.

Sincerely,

Gregory Mendoza Governor December 2012 Gila River Indian News Page 3 Letters & Opinions Letter of Appreciation My name is Dana Kisto. I Units both West and East. The I can’t forget our Adminis- treatment, a great big salute. am originally from District 5 but care that these people provide for tration. I found out I could walk Yes, Z Best Medical Trans- now reside in District 6. On Dec. me week after week, month af- in their office any time and talk port drivers you are included, 7 2010, I came under the guiding ter month, year after year, is life about anything, they listen. (Prob- some of you were with me in hand of Mrs. Valerie Roanhorse, sustaining work. Perhaps I just ably about myself) 2010 when I found myself liv- Nephrology Social Worker for the missed their mention. Is there Why do I only mention Mrs. ing by myself in District 5. You Westend Dialysis Unit, She Intro- a stigma involved, I wonder? I Roanhorse by name? She was my showed deep concern, I was in Governor duced me to the staff. asked a staff person the number of first contact when I arrived here. a wheelchair then, some of you Mrs. Roanhorse showed me patients they worked with in this Some people come into our even gave me your phone num- Gregory Mendoza genuine empathy, as did all the unit, 55 was the number given. lives and quickly go. Some stay bers if I needed to talk, you told Lt. Governor staff members. Since I was entered in this facil- for a while and leave footprints me that’s when it became bad, and Stephen Roe Lewis In the months that followed, ity, some staff have left. Retiring in our hearts and we are never the you were right. Thank you. C ommunity Council I looked in our tribal newspaper or to be with family elsewhere, I same… Representatives for some mention of the Dialysis miss them. To the people involved in my District #1 conference held on Oct. 29-30 in Arzie Hogg I n Loving Memory I n Loving Memory Congrats Denae Paul Cynthia Antone Henrietta Osife Antone Carla Faith Jackson Flagstaff, AZ. This award goes to recipients that demonstrate aca- District #2 5/21/33 - 10/23/12 11/11/67 - 9/28/12 demic excellence and leaderships Jewel Whitman The children of Henrietta Osife People are of- skills by keeping a GPA of 2.00 District #3 Antone would like ten unreason- or higher and demonstrates ex- Dale G. Enos cellence, creativity, initiative, and Myron Schurz to thank the many, able, illogical, many people who and self-cen- leadership in school, community District #4 helped us with the tered; forgive and cultural heritage, exempli- Barney B. Enos, Jr. fies the characteristics of a posi- Jennifer Allison preparations need- them anyway. Christopher Mendoza ed to send our mother on her fi- If you are tive role model in her school and Monica Antone community. We are very proud of nal journey. We appreciate it so kind, people Congratulations to our daugh- her and know that this is just the District #5 much. may accuse ter Denae Paul, the recipient of the beginning and she has more to ac- Brenda Robertson HuHuKam Memorial Hos- you of selfish, Junior High school Arizona Indi- Franklin Pablo, Sr. complish. pital, The Caring House and ulterior motives; be kind anyway. an Education Association (AIEA) Annette J. Stewart Sincerely, her parents Janice Stewart Hospice of the Valley for all her If you are successful, you will win scholarship award for academic Delberta Salkey-Paul & medical needs and care. St. Pe- some false friends and some true excellence and leadership. She re- District #6 Rodney Paul ter Indian Mission School and enemies; succeed anyway. If you ceived the award at the annual youth Anthony Villareal, Sr. District 4 Albert Pablo Church. District 5 Service Center. are honest and frank, people may Terrance B. Evans Water and Sanitation. cheat you; be honest and frank anyway. What you spend years District #7 District 5 Elderly Center for Martha Miller the beautiful flower arrangement. building, someone could destroy R obert Keller, Tribal Treasurer (you knew red was her favorite overnight; build anyway If you Linda Andrews, Community color) All the flowers that were find serenity and happiness, they Council Secretary given to her. Women’s Auxilia- may be jealous; be happy anyway. Gila River Indian News ry, Ira Hayes Post. Velma, for the The good you do today, people Zuzette Kisto beautiful veil that she asked you will often forget tomorrow; do [email protected] good anyway. Give the world the CPAO Director to make for her when her time (520)562-9851 came. Brenda, Chavella, Verona best you have, and it may never and Johnny Ray with his group be enough; give the world the best Roberto A. Jackson you’ve got anyway. You see, in [email protected] from Salt River for their songs at Managing Editor the wake. the final analysis, it is between you (520)562-9719 J. Warren Funeral Services, and God. It was never between Gina Goodman Cole & Maud Gardens Chapel. you and them anyway. [email protected] Monsignor Ed and Deacon I’m going to always love you & GRIN Secretary II Peter for fulfilling all her spiritual I’m going to forever miss you. I (520)562-9715 needs. All the family and friends will love you forever - Doobie Mikhail Sundust that were there with us preparing [email protected] From GRIN staff Community Newsperson food and cleaning up. (520)562-9717 MAY GOD BLESS EACH to GRIC and readers Joshua Jovanelly AND EVERY ONE OF YOU. Dear Contributors, [email protected] Laurice, Larry, Darlene, Cal- Please accept this note of Community Newsperson vin, Rose, Manuel Jr., Paul & gratitude from the Gila River (520)562-9715 Dennis Indian News for your continued Write to: support and for your monthly Editor, GRIN Special Acknowledgment P.O. Box 459 written and graphic contributions Sacaton, AZ 85147 I would like to acknowledge to the paper. We are very lucky Published letters or columns do not nec- some very special people for help- essarily reflect the opinion of the to have such great individuals and Editor or ing me achieve my dream of going groups who provide a very im- Gila River Indian Community. to Rome to be a part of the Canon- portant link between the GRIN LET T ERS POLICY: GRIN welcomes ization of the Blessed Kateri who is and our readers. letters and columns from readers. Let- the first Native American woman to The raw material of our pub- ters should be limited to 200 words and become a saint. be in good taste. Material that could be lication is merely paper and ink. libelous or slanderous is not acceptable. Thank you Terry and Ramona But your submissions persistent- All letters or columns should be signed Button for helping that dream come ly elevate this pairing to an acute with the writer’s true name, address and true. I would like to say thank you to level of visual gratification. The telephone number in the event GRIN Alyssa Dixon Gray and Golden Ful- rectangular dimensions are very may need to contact the writer. Only wilder for their hard work in putting the name of the writer will be printed in common, but once we include the paper. Letters or columns without together the food sales. You really your work we are liberated from a complete signature, name, address or are a treasure to your community. I the rigid edges and corners of the phone number will not be acceptable to would also like to thank Gabriel Jim, canvas and free to communicate GRIN for publication. GRIN reserves Karen Button and Leslie Xavier for to our readers wherever they may the right to edit submitted materials for their donations and support. grammar, spelling and content. be. May God Bless you all trough This small message is one Gila River Indian Community your journey and know that you are P.O. Box 459 drop from our ocean of grati- Sacaton, AZ 85147 all a special part of my life. tude. This modest dispatch is one (520)562-9715 Norina Escalanti breath in our lifetime of apprecia- www.gilariver.org/grin Quechan Tribe tion. If we had not expressed our www.gilariver.org/index.php/news sincere thanks then we apologize, Material published in the Gila River Indian for our work is only conceivable News may not be reproduced in any form CORRECTIONS through your guidance and gen- without consent from the Gila River Indian The GRIN encourages comments erosity. Community and suggestions about content Sealed with fondness, that warrants correction or The Gila River Indian News clarification. To report an error Communications & Public Af- call (520)562-9719 or fairs Office email [email protected] Page 4 Gila River Indian News December 2012 procedures will apply. First, we must receive the funds back from your bank (if you do not owe money to the bank). Second, we must YOUR PER CAPITA CORNER request a check from the GRIC Accounts Payable Dept. In order to www.mygilariver.com/percapita request this check, we need a current W-9 from you. Please note

that this process could take up to 3 weeks. 2013 Quarterly Per Capita Schedule:

Quarterly Deadline Payment Date New adult applications: Members turning 18 years old by January December 17, 2012 January 31 (Thurs) 31, 2013 and applying for adult per capita, must apply by December March 15 April 30 (Tues) st 17, 2011 in order to be eligible for the January 31 payment. June 17 July 31 (Wed)

September 16 October 31 (Thurs) Power of Attorney for Per Capita Distribution (POA): Please check Trust Early Distribution Request: the expiration date of your POA. This is the only POA form that is December 31 January 15, 2013 (Tues) accepted for PCO use. The fully completed form is only valid for (Checks mailed) one year from the date it is notarized. The POA must be on file with the PCO 45 days prior to the payout date.

The Per Capita staff wishes everyone a very “Merry Christmas” & a PER CAPITA MINOR TRUST ACCOUNTS “Happy New Year”. It is now time to mark your 2013 calendars with These trust account monies are available to your child for clothing the per capita dates above. and specific health/education expenses. There is an annual dollar ! limit depending on the age of your child, and withdrawals can be PER CAPITA – IMPORTANT TIPS requested only two times a year. IRS 1099 Forms: Per capita payments are considered taxable income. The 1099 forms for the 2012 per capita (plus other GRIC Providence First Trust will be at the Per Capita Office to assist ! payments you may have received) will be mailed to your Enrollment with trust request forms and questions on Friday, December 28 mailing address by JanuaryWhat’s 31, 2013. New At GRICUA? and Monday, December 31. If your child needs to use his/her

About GRICUA trust fund, we strongly encourage you to submit your request to Address Update Forms: Use this official Enrollment Department Providence as early as possible in the quarter. This will give GRICUA wantsform to tothank keep the your GRIN address for currentallowing. Forus thiseach opportunity update, also tosubmit reach an out toProvidence the a chance to preview your request and notify you if Community. Weupdated will be “IRS providing W-9 Form” news to and the energy PCO showing conservation your most tips current on a continual further basis. information or corrections are needed. address. See Quarterly Deadlines above. GRICUA’s mission is to manage the electrical and energy needs of the CommunityAlso andupdate further your child’s address with the Enrollment Dept. The the Community’sPay Cards self-determination: If you are a .pay card holder, be sure to inform the semi-annual trust statement for your child will be mailed in mid- PCO of address changes so the Chase database can be updated January. For more information or a minor trust brochure, call with your new address. If you have account related questions, Providence First at (800) 350-0208 or (480) 282-8812. GRICUA is a pleasevaluable call CChaseommuni at (866)ty resource 795-3890. which services over 1,900 customers within Districts 1-5 and a small portion of east District 6. GRICUA supports the CommunitPER y’sCAPITA youth OFFICE (www.mygilariver.com/percapita) through our WashingtonDirect Deposit Youth Rejects Tour: Ifprogram your per and capita summer payment internship to your s.direct We haveOpen a deepMonday – Friday, 8:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m. deposit account is rejected due to a closed account, the following (520) 562-5222 or (866) 416-2618 commitment to the Community and to energy conservation.

GRICUA currently has 22 employees. munity Community resource member,which services Kurt withPolingyowma, GRIC Employment recently and Projects in use, just by being plugged in, accepted a full time position in the GRICUAover 1,900 warehouse. customers within Kurt Dis came- Training to GRICUA and quickly thru developed our In preparation for the Com- and though it may seem trivial, it tricts 1-5 and a small portion of into a valuable team member. munity’s new Premium Outlet can add up over time. Take ac- partnership with GRIC Employment andeast Training District 6. GRICUAand quickly supports developed GRICUA’S into a Boardvaluable consists team Mall opening early next year near tion, unplug charges not in use. the Community’s youth through of Mr. John Lewis, Chairman; the Wild Horse Pass Resort & Ca- Plug TV’s into a main power strip member. our Washington Youth Tour pro- Ms. Nada Celaya, Vice Chair- sino and to meet future growth, and turn it off when not in use. What’s New At GRICUA? GRICUA is currently building About GRICUA gram and summer internships. man, Ms. Anika Evans, Secre- We have a deep commitment to tary; Mr. Neil Banketewa, Trea- a new substation at Wild Horse Reminders We will be providing news Pass. The substation is scheduled POWER INTERRUPTIONS GRICUA’S andBoard energy consists conservation!of Mr.tips onJohn a the Lewis, Community Chairman; and to Ms.energy Nada surer Celaya, and Ms. ViceBelinda Chairman, Nelson, conservation. Board Member. to become operational January - If you experience an interrup- Ms. Anika Evans,continual Secretary;basis. GRICUA’s Mr. misNeil- Banketewa, Treasurer and Ms. Belinda Nelson, Board 2013 and is located at Willis Road tion of service and are a GRIC- sion is to manage the electrical GRICUA currently has 22 The table below shows a employees. Community member, snapshot of the growth that has and 40th Street. Financing for the UA and/or SCIP customer, please Member. and energy needs of the Commu- new substation is being provided call 520-796-0600 to report the nity and further the Community’s Kurt Polingyowma, recently ac- taken place within GRICUA with cepted a full time position in the respect to customers served, staff- with a partnership with another outage. Please tell the Customer self-determination. of the Community’s enterprises, Service Representative if you are GRICUA is a valuable Com- GRICUA warehouse. Kurt came ing and load growth. The table below shows a snapshot of theto GRICUA growth thru that our has partnership taken place within GRICUA with Pima Leasing. a GRICUA or SCIP customer, the respect to customers served, staffing and load growth. name and address or cross streets In addition to the substation, of the customer without power. GRICUA is in the final stages of You will be asked if your breaker designing a new administration panel has been checked, if your Description 2000 2005 2012 building to meet future needs. neighbors are also out of power, if We are very excited to announce you heard any loud bangs or saw that our goal for GRICUA’s ad- any flashes of light and are there ministration building will be that any wires or poles on the ground. Total Number of Employees 2 4 22 it achieves a “Leadership in En- Any additional information you ergy and Environmental Design can provide will aid in determin- “(LEED) designation from the ing the problem and restoring United States Green Building power as quickly as possible. Council. Number of Customers 12 20 1,937 CALL BEFORE YOU DIG Energy Conservation Tips - GRICUA is a member of Ar- Save Energy by Avoiding izona Blue Stake. Please call Phantom Power 1-800-782-5348 to request an Number of GRICUA Lineman 0 0 6 Though it’s known by a laun- underground line locate of both dry list of names-phantom load, GRICUA and SCIP on reserva- idle current or vampire power, tion facilities. phantom power all does the same Peak Load 4 MW 6 MW 29 MW thing: take extra energy from the GRICUA welcomes your grid into your home when you ar- comments. You can email com- en’t looking and you don’t need ments to gricuacomments@gri- it. Many gadgets, electronic de- cua.net. You can also go to our Projects vices and appliances, like tele- website at www.gricua.net. visions, computer monitors and DVD players, draw power even In preparation for the Community’s new Premium Outlet Mall opening early next year near thewhen they’re switched off or not Wild Horse Pass Resort & Casino and to meet future growth, GRICUA is currently building a new substation at Wild Horse Pass. The substation is scheduled to become operational January December 2012 Gila River Indian News Page 5 Here are some monthly updates on Community Updates by GRIN STAFF the on-going issues pertaining to the Gila River Indian Community. ADOT, GRICDOT to improve State Route 87 in coming months The Arizona Department of Transportation and Gila River Indian Community Department of Transporta- tion are making safety im- provements to State Route 87. The $8.5 million project —the result of a partnership among ADOT, GRICDOT and the Federal Highway Administration – begins at the intersection of SR-87 and SR-287 just north of the Casa Grande ruins near Coolidge and ends where SR-87 meets Hunt Highway south of Chandler – a 25- mile stretch, mostly on the reservation. Roadwork began earlier this month and is expect- ed to continue through the summer of next year. Safety improvements planned for SR-87 include intersection improvements, widening of shoulders, adding and extending turning lanes, For more in formation regarding this road E-mail: [email protected] installation of signs and re- improvement project, contact ADOT Communications at: Web: www.azdot.gov/sr87improvements paving of the highway. Phone: 1-855-712-8530

ARTICLE XVII – AMENDMENTS BIA Secretarial Election CURRENT This Constitution and Bylaws may be amended by a majority vote A special Secretarial Election er future elections concerning The intent of this amendment is: of the qualified voters of the Gila River Indian Community voting in is scheduled for February 2013 constitutional amendment prop- 1. To remove the authority an election called for the purpose of the Secretary of the Interior, pro- (exact date to be determined) in ositions will be authorized by of the Secretary of the Interior to vided that at least thirty (30) percent of those entitled to vote shall the Gila River Indian Communi- the GRIC Elections Board rather conduct an election to amend the vote in such election; but no amendment shall become effective until ty. The election is on a ballot mea- than the U.S. Department of the Gila River Indian Community’s it shall have been approved by the Secretary of the Interior. It shall sure that aims to change the way Interior. Constitution and Bylaws be the duty of the Secretary of the Interior to call an election on any Gila River makes amendments to Either way, in the end, con- 2. To place the authority to proposed amendment at the request of the Council or upon receipt of a its Constitution and Bylaws. stitutional amendments are decid- conduct an election to amend the petition signed by five hundred (500) eligible voters, members of the Currently in Gila River, the ed by a majority vote of qualified Gila River Indian Community’s Community. only way to make amendments (registered) voters of the Gila Constitution and Bylaws with the PROPOSED to the Community’s Constitution River Indian Community; this Gila River Indian Community Amendments to this Constitution may be proposed to the Election is through an election that is au- election will only decide who has Election Board Board by a resolution of the Council approved by two-thirds (2/3) vote thorized by the Secretary of the the authority to conduct such an 3. Amendments may be pro- of the entire Council by a petition signed by at least thirty (30) percent Interior of the U.S. Department election, again, the GRIC Elec- posed by two-thirds (2/3) vote of the registered voters of the Community. Upon receipt of the Coun- of the Interior – aka, a Secretarial tions Board or the U.S. DOI. of the entire Gila River Indian cil’s resolution or the petition, a special election will be called and con- Election, such as the one sched- To the right is a sample of Community Council or by a peti- ducted in accordance with Community law. Proposed amendments will uled for February. what will most likely be on the tion signed by at least thirty (30) be approved by a majority vote of the registered voters of the Commu- The upcoming Secretarial forthcoming Secretarial Election percent of registered voters of the nity voting in an election called for the purpose by the Election Board, Election will determine wheth- ballot. Gila River Indian Community. provided that at least thirty (30) percent of the registered voters vote in such election. his Administration. Each federal- President ly recognized tribe will be invited to send one representative to the Obama conference.” The National Congress of meets with American Indians urged all trib- al leaders to attend if they can. Key topics included the Cacieri/ Tribal Lead- Patchak decision, the Violence Against Women Act, the Tribal ers in D.C. Law and Order Act, the HEARTH Earlier this month, President Act, improving Tribal and Feder- Obama announced that he will al Government relations and ex- be hosting the 4th annual White panding economic opportunities House Tribal Nations Conference in Indian Country. on Dec. 5, 2012 at the Depart- Gov. Gregory Mendoza rep- ment of the Interior in Washing- resented the Gila River Indian ton, D.C. Community at this meeting of na- In a press release, the White tional and tribal leaders. Current- House stated, “The conference ly he is, “working with [GRIC’s] will provide leaders from the 566 D.C. lobbyists to develop our leg- federally recognized tribes the islative priorities for the upcom- opportunity to interact directly ing Congressional session.” with the President and represen- tatives from the highest levels of Page 6 Gila River Indian News December 2012 Heard Museum dedicates memorial to Native Vets led to effort to raise money for the prominently displayed. monument. President and CEO “When I look at someone David McIntyre said Tri-West I’ve lost in my life, no matter if jumped at the opportunity when it he was 18, 19, 22 or 41, I still see heard about the proposal. them at that age when they dis- “How fitting it is that Arizo- appeared,” Thornton said. “This na would be the location for this will be here for generations and national memorial and even more generations for children to see, fitting for it to be at the Heard and for them to see who their an- Museum,” McIntyre said. cestors were.” Houser’s piece depicts two Thornton completed four larger-than-life Apache warriors. tours in Vietnam. In 1972, his One, standing, holds a rifle and team took heavy fire during an the other kneels while grasping operation. Thornton dragged two a spear. Their eyes beam keenly wounded soldiers seaward for Joshua Jovanelly/GRIN into the distance, as if expectant hours and saved their lives. He Michael Naranjo’s sculpture of a coming battle. was awarded the Medal of Hon- “The Gift” at the Heard Museum. The piece, titled “Uncon- or for his actions. He retired after Allen Houser’s piece “Uncon- quered II,” was Houser’s last ma- the first Gulf War, completing 25 quered II” in the background. jor work before he passed away years of duty. By Joshua Jovanelly in 1994. It is on long-term loan to “The medal I wear so proud- Gila River Indian News the Heard. ly around my neck, it’s not mine. Naranjo, who is blind and has We were all doing the job our Two armed Apache warriors the use of only one hand, carved country asked us to do and this gaze proudly into the distance. A two smaller sculptures touching medal belongs to all of them,” solider carriers his fallen brother on themes of brotherhood in war Thornton said. in arms. A Native man releases a and the hope for lasting peace. Thornton said the memori- dove toward the heavens. One shows a man carrying a fel- al was overdue considering how These are the artworks that low soldier over his shoulder, and many Native Americans have adorn the American Indian Veter- the other shows a Native man, joined the armed forces. They ans’ National Memorial, the first his arms outstretched, releasing were here before America existed known national monument dedi- a dove. and have fought bravely to pro- cated solely to Native American “Veterans come from many tect it since. Joshua Jovanelly/GRIN veterans, which the Heard Muse- U.S. Army veteran Retired Lt. Col. Dan Hink speaks to Gila places, many cultures, but we’re “I think it’s a great tribute um unveiled on a brisk evening Crossing Community School students about the symbol- all brothers,” Naranjo said, add- to Native Americans and what on Nov. 14. ism of the American flag during a Veterans Day Assembly. ing, “There’s so much happening they’ve done, and all the battles The monument features in the world and it doesn’t seem they’ve been in that helped keep sculptures by the late Allan Hous- to stop. Somewhere, somehow our nation safe and free for the Veterans Day Assembly er (Chiricahua Apache) and by we have to live together.” future of all Americans,” Thorn- Michael Naranjo (Santa Clara Naranjo was wounded in ton said. “And they are the true unites Gila Crossing Pueblo). Several bronze panels Vietnam and sustained injuries Americans too. And they stood with white writing detail the his- that left his eyes enucleated and by all of us.” Annual day of recognition comes tory of Native American service one hand inoperative. His meant- Veteran George Blue Spruce dating back to the 17th century to-be-touched sculptures are cre- Jr. (Ohkay Owingeh/Laguna with special message of respect and highlight those that served ated “from my mind’s eye within Pueblo) captured the spirit of the with distinction. By Joshua Jovanelly Americans because of the of- my mind, and the images transfer event with the following Pueblo “What we do here today is Gila River Indian News ten-extreme environmental con- to my head to the material I’m Indian prayer: the beginning of a lifelong hon- ditions rangers face. The Native working with. It’s a very unique Hold on to what is good, Retired Lt. Col. Dan Hink oring of brave American Indi- servicemen and women taught way of working but sculpture even if it’s a handful of earth. didn’t need a microphone. The an men and women who have fellow soldiers how to survive lends itself to that,” he said. Hold on to what you believe, powerful voice of the U.S. Army answered the call to defend our outside in harsh settings, such as Lt. Michael E. Thornton, the even if it’s a tree that stands by veteran had no trouble carrying nation,” said Lee Peterson, act- temperatures as low as 40 degrees only living Native recipient of itself. across the gymnasium during a ing CEO of the Heard Museum. below zero in Alaska. the Medal of Honor, was honored Hold on to what you must do, Gila Crossing Community School “This memorial is the culmina- The retired lieutenant col- in front of the crowd who filled even if it’s a long way from here. Veterans Day Assembly. tion of dreams and a willingness onel held an American flag for seats in the west plaza. Thorn- Hold on to your life, even if “I spent 26 years yelling at of many to take a vision and turn much of the speech as he talk- ton — who is Cherokee, Irish it’s easier to let go. soldiers, I probably can make my- it into the concrete and bronze re- ed about the 26 years he served. and Scottish — recalled his fel- Hold on to my hand, even if self heard,” Hink said. ality you see before you.” To soldiers like him who served low Native soldiers as he perused someday I’ll be gone away from As GRIC joined the rest of Tri-West Healthcare Alliance abroad, the Stars and Stripes are the monument where his name is you the nation in honoring those who much more than shapes on a flow- served, Hink reminded students ing piece of fabric. that the annual day of recognition “It’s interesting when you get carried great meaning. GIS Day in the Governance Center overseas, and you’re out there in “It’s a big deal to us — the the middle of the desert or Korea, appreciation for the things that and suddenly this flag shows up, a we’ve sacrificed and have made little tattered, maybe a little dirty, efforts on,” Hink said on Nov. 9. and your heart swells. Because it Dressed in a decorated offi- means something to you,” Hink cers uniform, Hink joined Gila said. “It represents the past, but it Crossing faculty and staff in stands for the future.” speaking to students about the The Veterans Day message importance of leadership, the hit home for many Gila Crossing symbolism of the American flag officials. Eight faculty and staff and the price of freedom. Hink, are veterans of the Marines, Army his hair neatly parted and his eyes or Navy. They received a round of intense, called on students to cul- applause. tivate an essential quality. Gila Crossing Board Mem- “If you are going to be one ber Priscilla urged students to thing on this planet during the cherish their freedom. course of your life, be a leader,” “Our Himdag is to respect he said. “You are not born lead- one another, most of all to respect ers, you are made leaders. You ourselves,” Antone said. “And to have to learn to be a leader. It is continue to take care of our land, a skill, it is a talent you must de- take care of what God has given velop.” us and to honor our veterans.” Hink lauded Native Amer- Douglas Samuel, who teach- icans who, per capita, serve in es middle school social studies, the armed forces at a greater rate Mikhail Sundust/GRIN completed the assembly with an Matthew Deveny (left), Senior Technician for Gila River’s Geographic Informa- than any other ethnic group. He impassioned reading of Alfred tion Systems (GIS) Department, sits with District 1 Council Representative Arzie Hogg recalled his time spent with the Lord Tennyson’s famous poem, (right) to explain how he and his colleagues use ArcMap to process geographical- Army Rangers Battalion, an elite “The Charge of the Light Bri- ly referenced information, track patterns, and create data-centric maps of the Community. unit Hink said attracted Native gade.” The GIS Department uses GIS and maps to analyze the Community in terms of demo- graphics, agriculture, economy, water and other geographic landmarks. They also pro- vide the physical addressing service for the Community as well as data for the E911 system. December 2012 Health & Wellness Page 7 Preventing Substance Use through Puppetry

Photo Courtesy of Edit Box The Gila River Prevention Coalition performing a puppet show in Blackwater.

By Julie Jimenez uations that involved substance use, thus Prevention Administrator creating lessons that were most likely to be Gila River Healthcare remembered. Prevention research tells us when chil- The Gila River Prevention Coalition dren feel connected to their family, school is supported by Gila River Healthcare and/or community, they are less likely to through the funding of several state and make decisions that can negatively impact federal grants. Our vision is to work col- their lives. In order to build connectedness lectively towards a healthy Gila River Indi- and better relationships with family and an Community. The Gila River Prevention community, we must build pro-social skills Coalition invites interested people to the and protective factors in our youth to set a meetings the third Friday of each month at foundation for increasing positive life de- the Dialysis Center in Sacaton. The Coali- cisions. So you ask; how can we deliver tion members work to bring awareness and substance use age-appropriate prevention information to Gila River on a variety of information to young children, which allow health related issues. The Gila River Pre- them to interact and ask questions that are of vention Coalition will be partnering with interest to them? Use Puppets! different organizations to deliver a variety Puppets are a magic medium to simu- of substance use and suicide prevention late a real life situation. They can mirror be- strategies in the 2012-2013 grant years to havior and teach us about ourselves. Puppets address the issues among Gila River youth. have long been used to entertain, communi- The Gila River Health Care Preven- cate and instruct. The children are drawn in, tion Program of specialists are sched- captivated and “get” the message in the most uled to provide Life Skills in schools and natural accepting manner. Since the puppets around the community; Kahvyoo Spirit are characters and not people, sensitive in- Equine Programing for Youth and Veter- formation can be addressed in a non-threat- ans will be offered in the fall and winter ening way and the environment is safe for months; ASIST suicide prevention training questions and follow-up. The puppet can see is offered monthly; Baby Smarts/Parenting a situation through a child’s eyes, say what Education for both Teen and Adult Par- they feel and think. Scripts can be adapted ents; Trailriders which is held monthly for to address specific topics and can include youth and families to learn about culture culturally relevant material, making learn- and horsemanship on the first Saturday of ing more appropriate and effective. Black- each month. water Community School hosted the first For further information on the preven- Prevention Awareness Day where the Gila tion strategies being conducted by the Gila River Prevention Coalition used Prevention River Prevention Program please call 520- Puppets to present social and behavioral sit- 562-3321 x 7031 Report Illegal Dumping

Submitted by situations when the Community calls in Chemical Tribal Emergency Response a report. The appropriate key agencies Commission (C-TERC) that play a role in the specific type of dumping that occurred are notified. Over the past several years our Investigations that are conducted will Community has been a victim to illegal help in the future to keep illegal dumping dumping. This has included used dirt, old from happening in our Community. furniture, all the way to barrels of used oil. What can you do? Please immediately It is our duty to report this kind of activity report illegal dumping in your area. If you in order to stop the act of illegal dumping. If do notice any illegal dumping occurring, you witness illegal dumping, immediately please attempt to get as much specific call the Gila River Police, Gila River Police information as possible. This would include will determine whether Gila River Fire vehicle descriptions, license plate numbers Department should be called to the scene and identifying marks on the vehicles such depending on what has been dumped in that as company name. Please contact Gila area. Don’t endanger yourself and others River Police at 562-4511 or 562-4512. In by doing your own investigating—you addition, you can help by using the proper never know what you might come across. trash bins provided at your residences. Gila River Police is aware of We want to make sure that we what needs to be done in these types of keep our Community clean and safe! Page 8 Law & Order December 2012 New Community corporation aims to take advantage of new Federal Indian Land Leasing Law

Submitted by gress passed the Helping Expe- leasing of lands for community chartered Indian business un- will also allow the Community Office of General Counsel dite and Advance Responsible and economic development pur- der Section 17 of the Indian Re- Council to delegate responsibili- Tribal Home Ownership Act of poses. organization Act (25 U.S.C. § ty for leasing, development, and Indian lands, despite what 2011, Public Law 112-151, (the Utilizing the authorities of 477). As a corporation chartered management of other Commu- many may think, are not actually “HEARTH Act”) earlier this year. the HEARTH Act, the draft leas- through the federal government nity trust lands; centralize the owned by tribes or tribal mem- The HEARTH Act allows any ing regulations will permit the by the Community, the LDC will responsibility for oversight and bers. In fact, legal title to Indian Indian tribe to lease its lands for Community to enter into business be a separate legal entity but re- management of certain Com- lands is held by the United States any non-mineral development or agricultural leases with terms main wholly owned by the Com- munity-owned businesses; pro- in trust for the benefit of Indian purpose, without review and ap- of 25 years and two option terms munity. vide Community Council with tribes or tribal members. proval by the BIA, if the leasing of up to 25 years each without The Community would direct access for the monitoring Although Indian tribes pos- is conducted according to tribal Secretarial approval. The abili- achieve a number of objectives of businesses and economic de- sess the exclusive right to use and leasing regulations that have been ty of the Community to approve in the creation of the LDC as a velopment activities assigned to benefit from their lands, this right adopted by the tribal government leases with terms of up to 75 “Section 17” corporation. First, the LDC; and establish an entity is limited by the United States, and approved by the Secretary years, including all options, with- the LDC will have the authority to assume responsibility for eco- who has authority to bar activities of the Department of the Interior out BIA approval will provide to lease and develop Community nomic development responsibili- that pose too great a risk to the (the “Secretary”). Tribal regula- significant flexibility to the Com- trust lands assigned to the LDC ties within the Reservation. The federal government or the land. tions will be approved by the Sec- munity in negotiating business for up to 25 years without Secre- Community Council is still con- As a result, a federal law called retary as long as the regulations and agricultural leases of Com- tarial or Community Council ap- sidering options regarding the the Long Term Indian Leasing are “consistent with” BIA regula- munity trust lands. In addition, proval. The LDC will be granted composition of the Board of Di- Act (25 U.S.C. § 415) has re- tions governing tribal lands and the draft leasing regulations will authority to oversee the develop- rectors for the LDC. quired, since it’s passage in 1955, provide an environmental review permit the Community to enter ment of the Wild Horse Pass and In the end, both the develop- that each and every lease of an process with a public notification into leases of Community trust Toka Sticks Development Areas, ment of leasing regulations im- Indian tribe’s land, including al- and comment component. lands for a term of up to seven- and assume responsibility for the plementing the HEARTH Act and lotted land, be approved by the In sum, Indian tribes that ty-five (75) years for public, reli- management and operation of all the creation of the LDC will al- Bureau of Indian Affairs ( BIA) have received approval for their gious, educational, recreational, businesses located within those low the Community greater flex- under a complex set of federal leasing regulations will be able or residential purposes. areas, including the Sheraton ibility in developing Community regulations. to quickly and efficiently approve In addition to the Commu- Wild Hose Pass Resort and Spa, trust land for agricultural uses, Indian Country has long leases that accommodate specific nity’s efforts to develop leasing Whirlwind Golf Club, Rawhide residential uses, economic devel- complained that these regulations business and cultural needs. regulations implementing the Western Town and Steakhouse, opment, and other Community prevent the timely approval of At the direction of the Com- HEARTH Act, the Community Toka Sticks Golf Course, and purposes. However, it must be leases and the improvement of munity Council, the Office of Council is in the process of es- Toka Sticks Smokeshop, as well noted that neither the HEARTH tribal lands for housing, econom- General Counsel (OGC) has be- tablishing the Gila River Indian as all of the Community-owned Act nor the LDC will have any ic development, and other pur- gun the process of drafting leas- Community Lands Development businesses comprising Gila River effect on allottees or the leasing poses. ing regulations to implement the Corporation (LDC). The LDC Business Enterprises. of allotted lands. To fix this problem, Con- HEARTH Act to facilitate the will be organized as a federally The creation of the LDC Legislative Standing Committee Public Hearings On Criminal Code Submitted by Center. Please RSVP to the LSC nal Code at their rescheduled a year, the Community has been mittee Public Hearing, and/or the Office of General Counsel Administrative Assistant, Frances meeting on Dec. 21 at 1:00 p.m., busy updating the criminal code Legislative Standing Committee Gonzales, by Dec. 1 if you will located in Conference Room B of to comply with the provisions of meeting on Dec. 21 at 1:00 p.m., The Legislative Standing be attending. Ms. Gonzales can the Community Council Secre- TLOA, particularly sentencing or you may contact your Council Committee (LSC) will be holding be reached at (520) 562-9729 or tary’s Office. A copy of the pro- enhancements. These revisions representative and/or the Legisla- two Public Hearings to consider at [email protected]. posed revised ordinance in its en- include new offenses, offenses tive Standing Committee chair- public comment on revisions to All are welcome whether or not tirety is available for review at all designated as felonies, and in- person at (520) 562-9720. For the Criminal Code. The Public an RVSP is received. District Service Centers and the creased penalties from one year more information contact the Of- Hearings will be held on Satur- The second Public Hearing Community Council Secretary’s to up to three years per offense fice of General Counsel at (520) day, Dec. 15. will be held Dec. 15 in District Office. (or nine years per criminal pro- 562-9760. The first Public Hearing 6 at the District 6 Service Center In July 2010, Congress ceeding). will be held Dec. 15 in District from 1:00 p.m. to 4:00 p.m. passed the Tribal Law and Order If you are interested in pro- 3 in the Governance Center from In addition, the Legislative Act (“TLOA”) that made sweep- viding comments to the revisions 8:30 a.m. to noon. Lunch will Standing Committee will be con- ing amendments to the Indian of the Criminal Code, please at- be provided in the Governance sidering a revision to the Crimi- Civil Rights Act. For more than tend a Legislative Standing Com- Governor’s September Employee of the Governor’s October Employee of the Month Month Kee Joe Sr. Sara Bissen Mr. Kee Joe is a member of the Nava- appreciated. She is respectful and kind jo Nation Tribe from Gallup, New Mexico even though the employees she supervis- and has been working for the Gila River es may deserve more disciplinary actions, Department of Community Housing since she gives them the benefit of a doubt. She 1997. He resides on Gila River in District always has kind words to say about people 4 with his family who he is very proud of. or to people. She believes that a person He has utilized all of his training in can dream and make things better for peo- home maintenance repair to the residents ple and one does not always have to stay from Districts 1 to 7 of Gila River for 15 the same. years. He has a good working relation- She graduated from ASU, but in high ship with all staff, community members school was the valedictorian and during & lends a helping hand when there is a her schooling she worked with the archdi- need. This includes being placed in an ocese in child welfare. She believes every Acting Foreman position when instruct- child deserves in some way to feel like ed. There have been many times he has they belong to a family. While working relayed his received training to other staff with TSS, Ms. Bissen makes placements that have started employment with Com- with family members or relatives in the munity Housing. He has always given ap- Community a priority and uses this first preciation to others who have assisted and time with her when he can. before using outside entities. She has made trained him in order for him to perform his Many residents have come to know positive changes with TSS over the years job. He continues to operate vehicle #36, Kee not only as a maintenance worker and believes more positive changes can the same vehicle number since he started happen for the children, youth and families but as a devoted, respectful person who Sara Bissen has an outstanding com- working at Housing. There are times when of the Community. has proven his work skills to them and mitment to the children and families of he would work late in order to complete Ms. Bissen’s eyes light up when she to the Community Housing Maintenance Gila River. She exemplifies what a model an important task. When residents would talks about her children. She has five Department. He always gives a friendly employee of the Gila River Indian Com- receive a new homeownership home in young adults who are her pride and joy greeting to people by saying “yá’át’ééh”, munity should be. Ms. Bissen is the Case the community, Kee would say to the for- as they live productive adult lives. She which means hello, and “aoo’” which Management supervisor for Tribal Social mer Community Housing resident con- calls them amazing. In the last year, two means yes when he is being asked a ques- Services and has worked for GRIC for six gratulations, good luck and that he is hap- of her daughters were married. She had to tion. Thanks to Kee many residents now years. py for them. He always sends best wishes travel to London, England, for one of the know how to say two words in Navajo She was fresh out of college when she to people. weddings. Two of the children are either back to him. began at GRIC although she has been in One of Kee’s passions is keeping ac- in or have graduated from ASU. She likes Many residents are very thankful that child welfare for over 20 years. She puts tive in his traditional ceremonial dancing watching movies and going to eat family Kee is employed with Gila River. For Kee her heart and soul into the work with chil- as a gourd dancer and participates at Mesa burgers at Lone Butte Casino. She thinks to receive this compliment from the resi- dren because she knows the GRIC children Pow Wow, Mul-Chu-Tha, O’odham Tash, she’s pretty plain and not much outside of dents is an example for how customer ser- deserve the best in every aspect of their life Indian School Market & other events work since she’s on call 24/7 for TSS for vice is to be performed as an employee of including as they begin the journey with in Arizona. He has a strong love for his the last two years. But with a full life at Gila River Community. TSS. Ms. Bissen believes in people - what- mother in the Navajo Nation who he miss- TSS, a family and spending time with her ever role people are in, people should be es him so very much and enjoys spending parents, her life is not dull at all. December 2012 Youth & Elder Page 9 Youth Council meets with GRIC Leaders in Roundtable discussion

Mikhail Sundust/GRIN Gov. Gregory Mendoza (center) meeting the youth during the second Gila River Youth Roundtable in District 1. Photo courtesy of Renay Justus By Mikhail Sundust people their age, solving the bul- Elders Day Celebration in Blackwater Gila River Indian News lying problem, enhancing public safety and the promulgation of At an emotional Gila River Elders Day Celebration on Saturday, Nov. 3, attendees paid special Kyle Flores, President of Gila River cultures and languag- respect and thanks to Community veterans, shaking hands with each of the 18 veterans present the Akimel O’odham / Pee Posh es. Councilmembers responded to at the event. The event also included fun senior exercise activities and numerous raffle prizes. Youth Council, took a seat next all of their concerns with compas- to Gov. Gregory Mendoza at the sion and pensive concern. The First Division Museum celebrates American Indian Her- front of the room in the District 1 The young audience had Multipurpose Building gym. itage Month with Mathew B. Juan exhibit strong feelings about the Boys The Youth Council host- & Girls Clubs, where a lot of ed the second Gila River Youth November 1-30, 2012 26 Mathew registered for the In 1927, the American Le- them and their friends spend Roundtable of 2012 on Saturday, The First Division Museum draft and enlisted in the army on gion, Department of Arizona, time between school and home. Dec. 1. The morning began with Celebrates is a monthly rotating Dec. 11. voted to erect a monument to In particular, students in District introductions by Mendoza, Lt. exhibit celebrating National Her- Mathew was assigned to the Mathew B. Juan in Sacaton. On 3 would like to see more funding Gov. Stephen Lewis and four oth- itage Months and anniversaries. 6th Company of the 1st Infantry Memorial Day, 1928, that mon- and events programming at their er Community Council delegates: November is American Indian Training Regiment in Texas. Af- ument was dedicated in what is B&GC facility. Arzie Hogg (D1), Cynthia An- Heritage Month. Heritage Month ter completing training, he was currently the Veteran’s Memo- Throughout the day, the at- tone (D1), Jewel Whitman (D2) is a time to celebrate the rich and sent to Hoboken, New Jersey, to rial Park. The monument was mosphere remained friendly and and Monica Antone (D4). Twen- diverse cultures, traditions, and be shipped overseas on the S.S. made entirely of native materials. the tone casual but the seriousness ty-eight young men and women histories and to acknowledge the Tuscania. On Feb. 5 the Tuscania During World War II and again of the subjects and maturity with from Districts 1-7 thanked them important contributions of Native was torpedoed and sunk off the on the 50th Anniversary of his which the young adults handled all for attending with gracious people. Irish coast by a German U-Boat. death during the Vietnam Con- themselves revealed strong char- applause. Mathew B. Juan – An Ameri- This was the first American flict, there were large ceremonies acter and an awareness of current Grateful for the opportunity can Indian Hero troop ship sunk in World War I. conducted at the monument. The affairs. Many of the young people to share a discourse with their Mathew B. Juan was the first While more than 250 people died, monument stands today as a trib- there are not on the Youth Council tribe’s leaders, the youth dele- American Indian killed in World Mathew was rescued and eventu- ute to Mathew and the American but sacrificed a Saturday morning gation seized the opportunity to War I. A Pima Indian, Mathew ally made his way to France. Indians that honorably serve their of sleeping in for the chance to impart their numerous opinions, was born on April 22, 1892. He In France, Mathew was as- country. get involved in their Community. concerns and suggestions regard- grew up on the Gila River Indi- signed to the 28th Infantry, First Patches Having a public open dia- ing the state and direction of the an Reservation in Arizona, where Division. On May 28, 1918, the Shoulder-sleeve insignia dis- logue between tribal leaders and Gila River Indian Community. he excelled in athletics and local 28th Infantry conducted their tinguishes soldiers and their units. community youth is a rare occur- The discussion lasted all rodeo competitions. On Sept. 17 first sustained offensive battle of They were officially approved by rence but the Gila River youth morning and covered a range of 1917, the Ringling Bros. Circus World War I against the German the military on Oct. 19, 1918, and delegation was thankful to their important topics. The youth asked came to Phoenix to perform and forces at Cantigny. On that day, many have gone unchanged since councilmen and councilwomen about improving education on the after seeing the show, Mathew Mathew, serving with Compa- WWII. Some patches take their for their willingness to listen. reservation, providing jobs for asked the manager for a job. ny K, was killed by enemy ma- shapes and symbols from Amer- When the circus arrived in chine gun fire during the advance. ican Indian patch-working tradi- Wichita Falls, Texas, on Oct. 17, Mathew was temporarily buried tions of the 19th century. Beyond GRFD connecting with students 1917, Mathew was arrested for in France after the battle. identifying units, patches tell not having a draft registration In 1921, at the behest of his stories that memorialize people, card. However, American Indi- family, Mathew’s body was ex- places, or heroic deeds. ans were exempt from the draft humed and sent back to the Unit- in 1917, a fact ignored by the ed States. On April 9, 1921 over authorities who kept Mathew in 1,000 people attended his reburial custody. What happened in the in his native ground at the Cook interim is unknown, but on Nov. Memorial Church in Sacaton,

Gilbert Days Pony Express visits Memorial Park

Submitted by Gila River Fire from every room to get outside of Department your home if there is a fire, “crawl low under smoke” if there is a The Gila River Firefighters fire in your home, “matches and visit the schools within the Gila lighters are adult tools, not toys,” River Indian Community every if you find matches or lighters year. give it to an adult right away. The schools have been very These educational programs are generous with their time, allow- taught every year to our youth in ing us to participate throughout an effort to keep them safe. The the school year teaching children firefighters of Gila River enjoy about fire and life safety. On Nov. working with the schools and 28 and 29 the Firefighters visited kids. It is rewarding to teach the children at Vah-ki Head Start these important lessons. We have in District 5. seen the results and know that the The Firefighters presented messages that are so simple have Joshua Jovanelly/GRIN lessons about fire safety to the helped prevent an injury and a The Gilbert Days Pony Express Riders arrived at the Ira H. Hayes and Mathew children, including: “Stop, Drop, fire, said Rebecca Valenzuela, the B. Juan Memorial Park along with the Gilbert Days Legacy Rodeo Royal- Cover your face and Roll”, prac- Fire Department’s Fire and Life ty to present an invitation to Gila River to the Gilbert Days Celebration. ticed “Exit Drills In the Home” Safety Educator. (EDITH), always have two exits Page 10 Gila River Indian News December 2012 From Page 1 Gila River Indian Community Historic Water Settlement Day December 10, 2012

By Governor Gregory Mendoza This December 10, 2012 marks the eighth (8th) anniversary of the Arizona Water Settlements Act, the federal legislation that provides for a settlement of the Gila River Indian Community’s water claims. The Act is a culmination of decades of negotiation among the Community and other major water suppliers in Central Arizona. The Act also ends the largest water rights settlement in American history.

The purposes of the Act in relevant part are “(1) to resolve permanently certain damage claims and all water rights claims among the United States on behalf of the Community, its members, and allottees, and the Community and its neighbors; (2) to authorize, ratify and confirm the Joshua Jovanelly/GRIN Gila River agreement; (3) to authorize and direct the Secretary (of the Marshall Johnson (left), with the Black Mesa Water Coalition, talks Interior) to execute and perform all obligations of the Secretary under the with former coal miner Simon Crank, who lives a few miles from Kay- Gila River agreement; and (4) to authorize the actions and appropriations enta mine. Below: Interior view of the Navajo Generating Station. necessary for the United States to meet the obligations of the United States under the Gila River agreement and this title.” NGS: Jobs vs. Environment Water is Life. In 1869, the Gila River ran dry for the first time for non ty of resources, abuse of Navajo land and tations that the power plant was going to natural reasons. As an agricultural people, the loss of this precious perversion of their culture. run electric lines to the reservation, but resource was devastating to our people and our way of life, and in many “One of the worst things I could pos- that was never in writing or talked about ways, the Community continues to deal with the consequences of the loss sibly imagine is that Navajo people will really.” of the water. Gila River Water Settlement Day is now an annual just be the same as everybody else one day NGS says it benefits the Navajo com- Community holiday and gives Community members and employees an — no language, no culture, very focused munity by creating jobs. Of the 540 em- opportunity to reflect upon the vital role water played in the lives of our on money,” Gearon said. She added: ployees at the power station, 85 percent ancestors and in our lives today. This holiday also provides us pause to “When all of your focus is put into how are Navajo. The Kayenta mine, also us- consider our future as a Community and the vital role that this precious much money you can make by destroy- ing a Native American hiring preference, natural resources will play in our future. ing Black Mesa, we’re just ripping up our has similar statistics. Johnson estimates own cultural way of life.” that royalties from NGS and other power On Gila River Water Settlement Day, let us continue to be grateful for the NGS is within all current EPA guide- plants and leases employ roughly 10,000 natural resources that we have been given for our sustenance as a people. lines in terms of what it releases into the Navajo people. Water is Life and let us be ever mindful of this and the vital role water environment. But sulfur dioxide emis- “But there are 290,000 more [of us]. plays in our lives now and in the future. sions contribute to a haze over the Grand How do we get by?” Johnson asked. Canyon region. Reducing that haze is the The battle between jobs and envi- aim of the upcoming EPA ruling. ronment can sometimes play out within For Gearon and her associates, reduc- a single family. Simon Crank, 81, lives a ing inequity within the Navajo Nation is few miles from the Kayenta mine where also a primary concern. The reservation, he worked for 36 years and where his two which also includes the Hopi reservation, sons currently work. Crank said he has is more than 24,000 square miles. Much of respiration problems caused by years of it lacks basic infrastructure like roads and open-pit mining. many homes located in the most desolate “You look into this valley, you will regions lack electricity and running water see a cloud of smoke that you cannot see — all while NGS, a plant that powers 3 through and dust you cannot see through,” www.ArizonaDentalHeights.com million homes, sits in Navajo territory. Crank, speaking in his native Dine tongue, Marshall Johnson, who works with said through a translator. “We live in this FAMILY & COSMETIC DENTISTRY (480) 525-6000 Gearon, said school buses on the Navajo on a daily basis.” Elliot reservation travel 2,200 miles a day, with Crank said his compensation was 1,900 miles coming over rocky, unpaved abruptly cut off by Peabody, the compa- Free iPod roads. Meanwhile, Phoenix has 1,500 ny that runs the mine. As he considers the Power Rd miles of freeways. environmental impacts of mining and the Warner “We employ Gov. Brewer, we employ personal wrongs he has suffered, he also all the legislators,” Johnson said. “We do must be mindful of his sons’ livelihood. that, we provide that power and energy so What if NGS closed and the mine with it, they can live comfortably like this.” and his sons lost their jobs? The Navajo government in Window “I would be worried,” Crank said. Rock, Ariz., does receive revenue from There is no simple solution to NGS. leasing NGS and for right-of-way pay- The Navajo Nation, Arizona, the federal ments for transporting coal from the mine government and anyone who gets cheap in Kayenta that feeds it. The power pro- electricity are all affected by its operation. duced at NGS, however, was always in- The battle over the plant’s future is only tended for outside use. beginning. “The charter of this plant was never But Crank, like Gearon, wants people to power the reservation,” said Paul Os- to see through the dollar signs. Healthy Smiles Can Start At Any Age tupak, an environmental and safety man- “There are two things: there is life ager who has been with NGS since 1985. and there is money,” Crank said. “I feel “Money flows to Window Rock and they very strongly for life [more] than money. I can use that money however they see fit. hold life dearly.” “I think there was some false expec-

Every New Patient Receives A New IPOD

Joshua Jovanelly/GRIN December 2012 Gila River Indian News Page 11

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*The computer purchase program is subject to change without notice. *Price does not reflect computer purchase. *Does not include governmental taxes and surcharges. Computer Purchase program is one per household. Page 12 Gila River Indian News December 2012

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Alexie quips on literature, reservations, technology

ing on reservations reading and it’s not been a net positive, I don’t or any other kind of town, the sors, then that normalizes that writing and being interested in think. economic opportunities are much experience. They’re going to be that? Q: Do you think it could smaller. So you go off to get this realistic stories; they’re going to A: Finding books they love. be? great education and you come be struggling, with love and life. That’s one of the things a teacher A: Yeah, of course. But there back, and what kind of job is [There could be a] whole literary has to do. But the real danger on has to be a whole moral education waiting for you? revolution of writing about white my rez, it’s like seventh, eighth about the use of money. I don’t And then once again, if you collar Indians. grade, is when kids start to drift, know about [Gila River] but I belong to the wrong family or the Q: Have you ever gone to Mikhail Sundust/GRIN start to fall off. A kid who was certainly know a lot of tribes ar- wrong clan, what good is your de- any Arizona reservations? Alexie prior to his appearance amazing in fifth grade can all of a en’t what you’d call philanthropic gree going to get you? That’s hap- A: Because I come into cit- at Mesa Dobson High School. sudden just completely fall apart. either. The tribes that do well with pened in my tribe, where people ies, I end up focusing on the urban From Page 1 So I think that there has to philanthropic giving end up be- have come back with advanced kids. In Albuquerque I went to be a huge infrastructure for those coming a bigger part of the com- degrees and ended up working at the polytechnic high school, the of having a negotiation. So I’d seventh and eighth graders, for munity around them and really the trading post. So there has to college prep high school, I was say about two thirds of the ones those middle schoolers. There’s help the relationship between In- be a huge philosophical change there yesterday. In Milwaukee, I are mine and a third are probably got to be a lot of events and al- dians and non-Indians. When you around reservations for all their had a bunch of kids come into the her favorites. ternatives and programs to keep start making Indians and non-In- cultural beauty — and that’s the library and we hung out for about Q: Which ones did you their hormone-driven minds busy dians closer that way, I think it strongest part of a reservation is an hour. And then in Washington, fight over? and interested. People think about helps the Indian kids in terms of the concentration of culture — I visit all the rezs. A: Probably the Lone Rang- young kids as they should, but I dreaming about something differ- but the politics around being a Q: Do you get a different er and Tonto Fist Fight in Heav- don’t think there’s enough atten- ent and bigger, when you bring small town, a small government feel from a rez crowd vs. an ur- en, which she loves but I don’t tion paid to that middle school the world to the rez. can get sort of Third World. ban crowd? love as much. I think it belongs age. Q: A big push from Gov. Q: You’ve talked recent- A: Not as much as there used in there now. In the end, I look Q: It’s the 10th anniver- Gregory Mendoza is for people ly about reaching the halfway to be, I think because of the Inter- at the book and think, ‘Well, she sary of the Indian gaming to go out and get higher edu- point of your career. In the net and cell phones, the cultural was right.’ rights act in Arizona. Gaming cation and bring it back to the years ahead in your work, do access. That’s one of the things I Q: Tell me how you came has brought a whole bunch of reservation and serve the com- you feel like you’re going to fo- tease rez kids about — it’s hard up with the title “Blasphemy” new revenue to the Gila River. munity. In your own life and cus more and more on urban to go with that whole oppression for the new book. What responsibilities do tribal in your stories, people who do life? thing when you all have iPhones. A: I get accused of that by governments have to their chil- this are sometimes looked down A: Probably. When you talk You don’t look quite oppressed Indians and non-Indians so I dren and their people now that upon for leaving. about Native writers, the 30 or 40 when you’re walking around with thought I’d embrace it with me there’s all this revenue? A: Let’s remember, 70 per- of us who have big names, only a a $500 piece of technology. The laughing on the cover. It was a A: One of the things it’s done cent of Natives live off the res- handful live on the rez and only phone probably costs more than very purposeful jibe at my critics. though is it introduced the class ervation. So actually it’s the a handful have ever lived on the the car. Q: Do you think we all need system into the Indian world in- common Indian experience. The rez. And yet 99 percent of native They don’t feel as isolated, a little blasphemy in our lives? side reservations where certain reservation experience is the un- literature focuses on rez life. So not even close. I was disconnect- A: We need a lot less reli- families or clans control the mon- common one. So this idea that the we’ve been doing the community ed completely. We had two chan- gion. ey. And they oppress other clans rez is the center of all of our lives a disservice. nels. We had PBS if somebody Q: Less religion, more blas- and other families. Certain clans is only partially true. In terms of education or held onto the antenna. So that’s a phemy? and families get the great jobs. And also, you’re talking hope, if I start writing stories big difference, their cultural and A: Yes. And some tribes there’s a lot of about small towns. Whether it’s about Indian architects, Indian political awareness of the world Q: What do you think is a banishments based on money. So an Indian town or a white town engineers, Indian college profes- is much larger. good way to get young kids liv- Page 14 Culture & History December 2012 SPECIAL SERIES BY BILLY ALLEN their stories written down as a way to of the First People” by D. Miller provides share their knowledge. From Frank an excellent diagram of the O’otham win- Russell’s “The Pima Indians,” O’otham ter sky. called the morning star, Su mas Ho’o or The stories of our southern cousins, Visible Star, a powerful star for the star the Tohono O’otham, are a bit different. was a magician’s daughter. The North Long ago, Coyote was hunting in the sky, Star is referred to as Pi Himan Ho’o or got hungry, and helped himself to a bag of A’AGA Not-walking star. cornmeal he had spotted, and then some- The sun and moon came from ice El- one yelled at him. When Coyote grabbed SOMETHING TO BE TOLD OR der Brother threw up to the sky, and stars the sack, the cornmeal spilled which be- from water tossed high into the sky to came stars. The Milky Way represents a TALKED ABOUT help illuminate the night. The Milky Way grandson’s gift of white tepary beans to or tawmook, was placed in the sky with a his grandfather. The Pleiades are wom- cane dipped in ashes. Another version of en who enjoyed singing and dancing so WINTER SKY the Milky Way’s origin tells that a mule much, that’s all they did. So much time loaded with a heavy flour bag bucked and was spent away from home that they “The stars we are given. The constella- at dawn, “the first crops will be frozen.” Pii- spilled the flour. Hungry Coyote helped became homeless. When they asked a tions we make”* pash also believe Xitcá or Pleiades’ appear- himself but couldn’t eat all the flour, so powerful medicine woman to help them, What some call the Big Dipper, Piipash ance on eastern horizon marked the time to what remains is the Milky Way. she turned them into stone and threw the see as Coyote’s fishing net, the bend in the gather baidaj. For the Piipash, the Milky Coyote can be seen in sky with his stones/women into the sky. This was done handle is Coyote’s net bending as he turns. Way represents tracks of a race between tail up, others see the Big Dipper. Russell to remind O’otham it was fine to celebrate What the Greeks saw as the hunter Orion, deer and antelope. In addition, the stars in further noted that during a flood, Coyote’s but not to celebrate endlessly. O’otham visualize as Mountain Sheep. Na- the belt of Orion are the antelope, mountain little brother Fox, ran down the Milky So, bear this story in mind when you ture’s constellations helped our ancestors sheep and a deer. Way, fell and can be seen as six stars in celebrate at this time of year. Be mindful create our winter stories. In 1929, anthro- The O’otham creation story describes Sagittarius, arranged similar to the seven of all that you have and when you look up pologist Leslie Spier listened to O’obab how the universe came into being. There is a stars which represent Coyote. Since Fox at the sky, know that Piipash and O’oth- or Piipash elders Kutŏʹx and Last Star ex- basic storyline with variations due to dialect fell, he appears upside down, with his tail am created constellations that enrich our plain their people’s arrival at the center of and location. If the opportunity arises, take above his head. Some see the Little Dip- himdag. the earth and why the stars’ movement was the time to listen to an O’otham elder who per. When the moon passes near Fox, he important to the Piipash. Spier’s sources would like to share these stories. disappears. But he shows up in the form *Rebecca Solnit, Storming the Gates said when Cipa’s hand appears in the east A few elders of the past chose to have of a rabbit on the face of the moon. “Stars of Paradise: Landscapes for Politics.

S-ko:mag Mashath During this month of S-ko:mag Mashath we see the color that the month is named after all around us. The color of the clouds in the sky, the fog that stretches across the land, the haze the develops along the mountains, and the smoke rising above our houses all can be described by the Akimel O’otham color s-ko:mag. S-ko:mag includes the colors that in English we call grey and some shades of brown but is also used to talk about colors that are dingy, cloudy or unclear. The fur of some haichu thothakam (animals) like ban (coyote) or kaviyo (horse) are s-ko:mag and if you want an idea of what the color looks like all you’ll have to do is keep your eyes open during this month. Our Christmas cheer for this month comes courtesy of Ms. A.J. Hughes, three coloring pages from her Eñ “Jiosh Alithag Ma:sig”ch Klismas Ima:sichtha O’hon. The coloring pages show Akimel O’otham words for the

Holiday Season. We wish all of you a S-he:kig Jios Alithag Ma:sig ch heg Vechij Ahithag!

December 2012 Gila River Indian News Page 15 Page 16 December 2012 Tribal Education Department “Maschahamdud a Jeniktha” Casa Grande Students attend science and engineering conference in Alaska science, technology and engi- Anissa Garcia, also of Sa- trip. Thank you!” neering. caton, shares this, “When I was We would like to send our Ashley Pasqual, a Sacaton asked to attend the American In- special thanks to the following: community member and AISES dian Science and Engineering So- GRIC Youth Council, GRIC Pima conference attendee had this to ciety Conference I didn’t second Leasing and Financing Corpora- share about her Alaska expe- guess it. I went with the Akimel tion, GRIC Sand & Gravel, GRIC rience, “When I was given the O’odham/Pee-Posh Youth Coun- Telecommunications, GRIC opportunity to go to the AISES cil, and am grateful that I was one Utility Authority and Mrs. Vel- Conference in Alaska, I took it of the delegated members to at- ma Moreno of Stotonic Village. because I was unsure of what to tend this conference. I’ve always Without your generous support, research when I go to college. wanted to visit Alaska. Therefore, this trip would not have been The AISES conference helped I was beyond excited. AISES was possible for these very deserving give me an option that I thought a very helpful and fun experience, young men and women. You tru- was very interesting. I really want especially the career fair. I’d like ly added to all their bright futures. to study in the field of astronomy. to thank every single person who It is not yet set in stone but I am helped the Casa Grande Union Thank you! Photo courtesy of Tribal Ed. really considering it and looking High School students attend this By Gene Manuel 35 years, the American Indian for different kinds of careers that GRIC Tribal Education Science and Engineering Soci- are available. Department, Johnson-O’Malley ety, or AISES, has been largely I also took this opportuni- Advisor, Casa Grande Union responsible for promoting signifi- ty to go to Alaska and it was the High School cant, positive growth in the fields most beautiful place I’ve ever On November 1-5, 12 Casa of science, technology, engineer- seen! I would like to someday go Grande Union High School se- ing and math for Native Ameri- back and maybe even live there. I niors who are members of the cans everywhere. have not yet consulted it with my Gila River Indian Community, This year, students from our mother but the little birdie has to the Tohono O’odham Nation own local communities were al- leave the nest sometime. Isn’t that and the Navajo Nation enjoyed a lowed a firsthand opportunity to right mom? (I love you mom.) At life-changing experience as they see and hear of the personal chal- this time I would like to thank had the privilege of attending the lenges and triumphs of Native everyone who helped us get to 2012 American Indian Science American inventors and scien- Alaska and those who supported and Engineering Society Confer- tists, NASA engineers, and other us to go on this trip. We are very ence in Anchorage, Alaska. For respected leaders in the fields of grateful for all of you.” Photo courtesy of Tribal Ed. Larry Fitzgerald visits GCCS

IMPORTANT NOTICE REGARDING CASA BLANCA COMMUNITY SCHOOL BOARD ELECTIONS – December 17, 2012

The Casa Blanca Community School is pleased to announce that it will be holding an election on December 17, 2012 to fill three (3) seats on its Board of Trustees.

If you are interested in running in the election, you must meet the following qualifications:

 Be at least twenty-one (21) years of age as of December 17, 2012 (the date of the election);

 Reside in District 3, 4, or 5 and have lived in the District in which you are running for at least one year prior to December 17, 2012;

 Have a high school diploma, or GED;

 Successfully undergo a background check and drug/alcohol screen;

 Obtain an Arizona Fingerprint Clearance Card; and

 Submit a timely petition signed by seven eligible voters from your District.

To obtain a petition to get on the ballot, please contact Denise Rodriguez at the School. Ms. Rodriguez can be reached at 520.315.3489.

Petitions must be returned to the School no later than 3:00 p.m. on Wednesday, December 12, 2012.

The following persons are eligible to vote in the election (and sign petitions for Board candidates): (1) Enrolled members of the Gila River Indian Community who are at least eighteen (18) and who reside within District 3, 4, or 5 as of October 1, 2012; OR (2) Parent, grandparent, or legal guardian whose name is on file as the responsible party for a child currently attending Casa Blanca Community School.

As noted, the election will take place on December 17, 2012. Polling stations will be located at Photo courtesy of Tribal Ed. the District 3 and 4 Service Center; District 5’s polling station will be located at CBCS School. Arizona Cardinal 4-time All-Pro wide receiver, Larry Fitzgerald paid a surprise Polls will be open from 6 a.m. to 6 p.m. If the polling place changes, the School will send notice visit to GCCS to inspire kids to read. Mr. Fitzgerald spoke at an all-school as- to each of the District Service Centers (3, 4, and 5) in advance. Any questions regarding the sembly about the importance of working hard in school. As part of his appear- election should be directed to Denise Rodriguez at the above number. ance, he donated twenty Kindle Fire tablets which can be earned by class- es for reading. His donation was part of the Striving Readers program at the

school. Mr. Fitzgerald took a moment to ask and answer questions. He was followed by AZ-3 meteorologist, Brittney Shipp. Ms. Shipp also urged students to read more. The students were quite inspired and are still talking about it. December 2012 Gila River Indian News Page 17 Tribal Education Department “Maschahamdud a Jeniktha”

Cardinals plant seeds for VHM garden

Mikhail Sundust/GRIN Above: Lineman Nate Potter with Raelene Lalo restarting VHM’s gardening program. Right: Wide- out Isaiah Williams sows seeds during visit to VHM. A new turf was also installed on campus. By Mikhail Sundust past four years. They also gave a Kickstarting the garden took Mikhail Sundust/GRIN Gila River Indian News plot of grass to provide the Saca- a lot of work. Sheldon Meeks, ton high school with its first ever a Community Relations person Arizona Cardinals left tackle those in need in the Community. ing Community School. football field. On Tuesday, Nov. for the Cardinals and recreation- Nate Potter knelt down in the dirt Next to her, Solanah Mitchell “This is a place that is near 27, Potter and Cardinals wide al green thumb, noted that when next to Raelene Lalo, a student at stood and dusted the knees of her and dear to our owners’ hearts; receiver Isaiah Williams visit- they first saw the garden it was Vechij Himdag Mashchamakud. jeans noting that the fresh pro- they love doing work on the res- ed VHM to unveil the new field just dirt. “We saw the need and They were planting vegetables in duce will promote healthier diet ervation,” Meeks said. and spent a few hours helping the wanted to come help out,” he the high school garden—recently options and diabetes prevention. Evergreen Turf, the Arizona school’s Service Learning class said. They laid brick, tilled earth, restored to its former fertile glo- This is not the first time the sod and grass company that main- plant the garden’s first crops. laid compost, fixed the drip sys- ry thanks to a generous donation Cardinals have visited Sacaton. tains the Cardinals’ stadium and As the students and football tem and added a timer. Where from the Arizona football team. Last year, the franchise donated practice fields, did all the work players tilled and planted, Chris there was once just desert sand, As they finished seeding the fitness and weight training equip- to prepare the garden area before- Ollerton, a teacher and office there now lays healthy crops of row, the six foot six Potter and ment to VHM; it was during that hand and then installed the foot- manager at VHM (also an avid lettuce, peppers, carrots, onions five foot something Lalo stood visit when they noticed the lack ball field adjacent to the school Cardinals fan and season ticket and more on three small fields. with satisfied smiles. “Hopefully of a sports field and the desolate basketball court. VHM student holder), told how delighted she Students and staff alike look we’ll get some good carrots out garden. The Cardinals do a lot Richard Infante spent most of the was to hear from the Cardinals. forward to using their garden pro- of it,” Potter said, grinning at the of community service work in morning on the new sports field. “We really needed the help,” she duce in school lunches and in do- dark soil beneath their feet. Gila River. Recently, Williams He was chosen to paint the white said, “I mean, this garden was nations to the Community. As she The Cardinals donated mon- also visited Sacaton Elementary perimeter and yard-markers on awesome before but we just kind packed soil around a baby Ro- ey and resources last month to re- School to promote literacy and the small field’s vividly green of let it go. We didn’t have the maine, Analyssa Moreno, a VHM start the school’s gardening pro- last month wide receiver Larry grass. He said he hopes to play money to keep it up. Thanks to student, said she looks forward gram, which has lain dormant the Fitzgerald personally donated ed- football out there “every day.” them we can do this again.” to harvesting the crops to give to ucational resources to Gila Cross- Page 18 Gila River Indian News December 2012 Community Council Action Sheets Wednesday, Nov. 7, 2012 ACTION SHEET REPORT HEARD And The Related Temporary Con- Non-Transferable Fifty Year Home- Community Council; PO Box 2138; 10. School Board Coalition 2nd struction Easements Between The site Lease On Allotment 128 Locat- Sacaton, Arizona 85147; Phone Quarter Progress Report Gila River Indian Community And ed On Allotted Trust Land In (520) 562-9720; Fax (520) 562- Presenters: Michelle Lyons & Val- The City Of Mesa For The Realign- District Four Of The Gila River In- 9729 erie Williams ment Of Power Road (EDSC for- dian Reservation (NRSC forwards CALL TO ORDER TABLED AT APPROVAL OF AGENDA wards to Council with recommen- to Council with recommendation for The First Regular Monthly Meet- 11. School Board Coalition 3rd dation for approval with correction approval) Presenter: Javier Ramos ing of the Community Council held Quarter Progress Report of typo regarding Exhibit E 1; there APPROVED AT RESOLUTION #6 Wednesday, November 7, 2012, in Presenters: Michelle Lyons & Val- is no Exhibit E 1; NRSC & G&MSC 9. A Resolution Consenting To A the Community Council Chambers erie Williams concur) Presenters: Steve Heeley, Non-Transferable Fifty Year Home- at the Governance Center in Sac- TABLED AT APPROVAL OF AGENDA Perry Riggs & Ronald Rosier site Lease On Allotment 766 Locat- aton, Arizona was called to order APPROVED ed On Allotted Trust Land In by presiding Chairman Governor 12. School Board Coalition Bylaws 2. A Resolution Approving An Inter- District Four Of The Gila River In- Gregory Mendoza at 9:05 a.m. Presenters: Michelle Lyons & Val- governmental Agreement Between dian Reservation (NRSC forwards INVOCATION erie Williams The Gila River Indian Commu- to Council with recommendation for Councilwoman Annette J. Stewart TABLED AT APPROVAL OF AGENDA nity And The Pinal County Flood approval) Presenter: Javier Ramos ROLL CALL 13. Casa Blanca Community Control District For Acquiring Ae- APPROVED AT RESOLUTION #6 Sign-in Sheet Circulated School Beginning of the Year Data rial Photography And Topographic 10. A Resolution Consenting To A Executive Officers Present: Presentation for SY 2012/2013 Mapping From Pinal County (NRSC Non-Transferable Fifty Year Home- Governor Gregory Mendoza Presenter: Sherri Miller forwards to Council with recom- site Lease On Allotment 878 Locat- Lt. Governor Stephen R. Lewis REPORT HEARD mendation for approval; G&MSC ed On Allotted Trust Land In District Council Members Present: 14. San Tan Head Start Update concurs) Presenter: Seaver Fields Five Of The Gila River Indian Res- D1- Cynthia Antone, Arzie Hogg; Presenters: Tribal Education Ad- APPROVED ervation (NRSC forwards to Council D2-Jewel Whitman; D3- Myron G. ministration 3. A Resolution Authorizing The with recommendation for approval) Schurz, Dale G. Enos; D4-Monica REPORT HEARD Governor And The Tribal Historic Presenter: Javier Ramos Antone, Jennifer Allison, Christo- 15. Gila River Telecommunications Preservation Officer To Be Signato- APPROVED AT RESOLUTION #6 pher Mendoza, Barney Enos, Jr.; 3rd Quarter 2012 Update Report ries To The Revised Pima-Maricopa 11. A Resolution Consenting To A D5-, Annette J. Stewart, Janice F. Presenters: Bruce Holdridge & An- Irrigation Project Programmatic Non-Transferable Fifty Year Home- Stewart (9:11), Brenda Roberson, thony Newkirk Agreement Between The Gila Riv- site Lease On Allotment 948 Locat- Franklin Pablo, Sr.; D6-Anthony Vil- REPORT HEARD er Indian Community, The United ed On Allotted Trust Land In District lareal, Sr., Albert Pablo, Terrance [MOTION MADE AND SECOND States Bureau Of Reclamation, The Five Of The Gila River Indian Res- B. Evans; D7- Martha Miller (9:20) FOR A 90-MINUTE LUNCH BREAK Arizona State Historic Preservation ervation (NRSC forwards to Council APPROVAL OF AGENDA RECONVENED AT 1:44PM] Office And The Advisory Council with recommendation for approval) APPROVED AS AMENDED 16. Monsoon Storm Damage Up- On Historic Preservation Presenter: Javier Ramos REPORTS date 2012 Presenter: Robert Regarding Treatment Of Cultural APPROVED AT RESOLUTION #6 *1. Boys and Girls Club Of The DeLeon Resources Affected By Develop- 12. A Resolution Consenting To A East Valley – Gila River Branches REPORT HEARD ment Of The Pima-Maricopa Non-Transferable Fifty Year Home- 2012 Quarterly Report (April 2011- 17. FY2013 IHS Annual Funding Irrigation Project On The Gila Riv- site Lease On Allotment 1908 Lo- July 2012) Agreement Presenters: Linus Ev- er Indian Reservation (NRSC for- cated On Allotted Trust Land In Presenters: Jason Jones & Rebec- erling & Drake Lewis wards to Council with recommen- District Two Of The Gila River In- ca Martinez TABLED AT APPROVAL OF AGENDA dation for approval; CRSC concurs) dian Reservation (NRSC forwards REPORT HEARD 18. Gila River Health Care FY’11 Presenter: Barnaby Lewis to Council with recommendation for 2. Arizona State University External Audit Presenters: Richard APPROVED approval) Presenter: Javier Ramos Presenter: Diane Humetewa Narcia & McGladrey Representa- 4. A Resolution Approving And Au- APPROVED AT RESOLUTION #6 REPORT HEARD tive thorizing An Agreement Between 13. A Resolution Consenting To A 3. Blackwater Community REPORT HEARD The Gila River Indian Community Non-Transferable Fifty Year Home- School Tribal Allocation Annual 19. Travel Report – 4th Quarter And The Center For Applied Re- site Lease On Allotment 2275 Lo- SY2011/2012 Report Presenter: FY2012 Presenter: Robert Keller search, Inc. For Fiscal Year 2013 cated On Allotted Trust Land In Jacquelyn Power REPORT HEARD (NRSC forwards to Council with District One Of The Gila River Indi- REPORT HEARD 20. Four Rivers Indian Legal Ser- recommendation for approval; an Reservation (NRSC forwards to [GOVERNOR GREGORY MEN- vices Semi-Annual Report G&MSC concurs) Presenters: El Council with recommendation DOZA CALLED FOR A 10-MINUTE Presenter: Fred Pinsky Paso ROW & Negotiation Team for approval) Presenter: Javier Ra- BREAK REPORT HEARD APPROVED mos RECONVENED AT 10:46AM] MOTION MADE AND SECOND TO 5. A Resolution Approving And Au- APPROVED AT RESOLUTION #6 ENTER EXECUTIVE SESSION thorizing An Agreement Between 14. A Resolution Consenting To A 4. Vechij Himdag Mashchamakud 21. 9 Month Summary of Early The Gila River Indian Community Non-Transferable Fifty Year Home- Alternative School Inc. Tribal Allo- Childhood Special Services Activi- And Quarles & Brady, LLP For Fis- site Lease On Allotment 2440 Lo- cation 1st Quarter Report Present- ties FY’12 (Executive Session) cal Year 2013 (NRSC forwards to cated On Allotted Trust Land In er: L. Kim Franklin Presenter: Aurora Nevarez Council with recommendation for District One Of The Gila River Indi- REPORT HEARD REPORT HEARD IN EXECUTIVE approval; G&MSC concurs) Pre- an Reservation (NRSC forwards to 5. Vechij Himdag Mashchamakud SESSION senters: Rudy C. Mix Council with recommendation Alternative School Inc. Tribal Al- 22. Gila River Gaming Enterprises, APPROVED for approval) Presenter: Javier Ra- location 2nd Quarter Report Pre- Inc. Monthly Report – September 6. A Resolution Consenting To A mos senter: L. Kim Franklin 2012 (Executive Session) Present- Non-Transferable Fifty Year Home- APPROVED AT RESOLUTION #6 REPORT HEARD AT REPORT #4 ers: John James, CEO & Board of site Lease On Allotment 3059 Lo- 15. A Resolution Consenting To A 6. Vechij Himdag Mashchamakud Directors cated On Allotted Trust Land In Non-Transferable Fifty Year Home- Alternative School Inc. Tribal Allo- REPORT HEARD IN EXECUTIVE District Five Of The Gila River Indi- site Lease On Allotment 2568 Lo- cation 3rd Quarter Report Present- SESSION an Reservation (NRSC forwards to cated On Allotted Trust Land In er: L. Kim Franklin 23. Gila River Gaming Commission Council with recommendation District Five Of The Gila River Indi- REPORT HEARD AT REPORT #4 Monthly Report – September & Oc- for approval) Presenter: Javier Ra- an Reservation (NRSC forwards to 7. Vechij Himdag Mashchamakud tober 2012 (Executive Session) mos Council with recommendation Alternative School Inc. Tribal Allo- Presenters: Courtney Moyah & APPROVED for approval) Presenter: Javier Ra- cation Annual Report Presenter: L. Serena Joaquin 7. A Resolution Consenting To A mos Kim Franklin REPORT HEARD IN EXECUTIVE Non-Transferable Fifty Year Home- APPROVED AT RESOLUTION #6 REPORT HEARD AT REPORT #4 SESSION site Lease On Allotment 4697 Lo- 16. A Resolution Consenting To A 8. Gila Crossing Community School MOTION MADE AND SECOND TO cated On Allotted Trust Land In Non-Transferable Fifty Year Home- Tribal Allocation Annual Report EXIT EXECUTIVE SESSION District Four Of The Gila River In- site Lease On Allotment 4559 Lo- SY2011-2012 Presenter: Dr. Jeff [MOTION MADE AND SECOND dian Reservation (NRSC forwards cated On Allotted Trust Land In Williamson FOR A 10-MINUTE BREAK to Council with recommendation for District Five Of The Gila River In- REPORT HEARD RECONVENED AT 3:44PM] approval) dian Reservation (NRSC forwards 9. Maricopa Village School Prog- RESOLUTIONS Presenter: Javier Ramos to Council with recommendation for ress Report Presenter: Arnie Sun- 1. A Resolution Approving A Right- APPROVED AT RESOLUTION #6 approval) Presenter: Javier Ramos tag Of-Way Easement And Agreement 8. A Resolution Consenting To A APPROVED AT RESOLUTION #6 December 2012 Gila River Indian News Page 19 17. A Resolution Authorizing The ORDINANCES date (Executive Session) (G&MSC wards to Council under New Busi- Health Resources Department To UNFINISHED BUSINESS forwards to Council in Executive ness in executive session) Present- Accept A Grant From The United 1. Update on Tribal Law and Order Session with recommendation for ers: Robert Keller & Penni McCabe States Department Of Health And Act Activities (G&MSC forwards to consideration of #1, #2, #3, and po- TABLED AT APPROVAL OF AGENDA Human Services Centers For Dis- Council; LSC concurs) Presenters: tential #4) Presenters: Scot Butler MINUTES ease Control; Strengthening Public Rebecca Hall, Tana Fitzpatrick, & Eric Dahlstrom ANNOUNCEMENTS Health Infrastructure For Improved Claude Jackson & Michael Carter ITEM HEARD IN EXECUTIVE >RESIDENTIAL YOUTH PRO- Health Outcomes Cooperative MOTION MADE AND SECOND SESSION MOTION MADE AND GRAM GROUND BREAKING FRI- Agreement Program On Behalf Of FOR THE COMMUNITY COUN- SECOND TO EXIT EXECUTIVE DAY, NOVEMBER 9, 2012, 8AM The Gila River Indian Community CIL TO MOVE FORWARD WITH SESSION MOTION MADE AND >D4 VETERANS DAY BREAK- (H&SSC forwards to Council with THE NOTIFICATION AND ENACT- SECOND TO APPROVE OPTIONS FAST, NOVEMBER 12, 2012, 8AM, changes; G&MSC concurs) Pre- MENT OF THE REVISED CRIM- #1, #2, AND #3 OF THE MEMO- D4 SERVICE CENTER senter: Laverne Dallas INAL CODE AND SPECIFYING RANDUM DATED OCTOBER 30, >4 TRIBES MEETING HOST- APPROVED MAY 1, 2013 DEADLINE FOR 2012 ED BY THE SALT RIVER INDIAN 18. A Resolution Approving And Au- DEPARTMENTS TO ANTICIPATE NEW BUSINESS COMMUNITY, NOVEMBER 17, thorizing An Agreement Between IMPLEMENTATION OF EN- 1. Old Wild Horse Pass Casino 2012 9AM The Gila River Indian Community HANCED SENTENCES (EDSC forwards to Council) >EXPRESSION OF CONCERNS And REDW, LLC For Fiscal Year 2. Draft Amendment to Director Presenter: Dale Gutenson REGARDING THE COUNCIL/EX- 2013 (G&MSC forwards to Council Contracts (G&MSC forwards Coun- MOTION MADE AND SECOND ECUTIVE WORK SESSIONS with recommendation for approval) cil with recommendation for approv- TO CONCUR WITH ECONOM- >SUGGESTION OF STANDING Presenter: Alida Thomas al) Presenter: Thomas Murphy IC DEVELOPMENT STANDING COMMITTEE WORK SESSION APPROVED APPROVED COMMITTEE AND G&M TO MOVE >COUNCIL/EXECUTIVE RE- 19. A Resolution Approving The 3. Elections Update (G&MSC for- FORWARD AND DEMOLISH THE TREAT NOVEMBER 19 & 20, Relinquishment Of Kevin Ray Ross wards Community Council under FACILITY 2012, WILD HORSE PASS HOTEL From The Membership Roll Of The unfinished business) Presenter: 2. Declaration of Vacancy for Gila & CASINO Gila River Indian Community (LSC Scot Butler River Telecommunications, Inc. ADJOURNMENT forwards to Council with recom- ITEM HEARD AS FYI MOTION Presenter: Linda Andrews MEETING ADJOURNED AT mendation for approval) MADE AND SECOND TO ENTER DECLARED 5:03PM Presenter: Valerie Williams EXECUTIVE SESSION 3. Investigative Audit Summary * Denotes TABLED from previous APPROVED 4. Off-Reservation Gaming Up- (Executive Session) (H&SSC for- meeting(s) Community Council Action Sheets Wednesday, Nov. 21, 2012 ACTION SHEET erie Williams Outlet Structure With Two Flap DATIONS Community Council; PO Box 2138; TABLED AT APPROVAL OF AGENDA Gates Allowing Such Waters To NEW BUSINESS Sacaton, Arizona 85147; Phone *2. School Board Coalition 3rd Escape To The Gila River, And The 1. Declaration of Vacancy – Gila (520) 562-9720; Fax (520) 562- Quarter Progress Report Pima- Maricopa Irrigation Project River Telecommunications, Inc. 9729 Presenters: Michelle Lyons & Val- With The Authority To Work Within Presenter: Linda Andrews CALL TO ORDER erie Williams Such Easements (NRSC forwards DECLARED The Second Regular Monthly Meet- TABLED AT APPROVAL OF AGENDA to Council with recommendation for 2. Employee Benefits Board of ing of the Community Council held *3. School Board Coalition Bylaws approval) Trustees Appointment (G&MSC Wednesday November 21, 2012, in Presenters: Michelle Lyons & Val- Presenter: David H. DeJong forwards to Council with recom- the Community Council Chambers erie Williams APPROVED mendation to approve Governor’s at the Governance Center in Sac- TABLED AT APPROVAL OF AGENDA 2. A Resolution Approving Acceler- appointment) aton, Arizona was called to order [ADDENDUM TO AGENDA] ated Depreciation Of Certain Net- Presenters: Employee Benefits by presiding Chairman Governor 8. Pee Posh Veterans Association work Elements (G&MSC forwards Board Trustees Gregory Mendoza at 9:12 a.m. – Fourth Quarter Report FY2012 to Council with recommendation for TABLED AT APPROVAL OF AGENDA INVOCATION Presenter: Dan Jenkins approval) 3. Investigative Audit Summary (Ex- Provided by Councilwoman Brenda REPORT HEARD Presenters: Bruce Holdridge & ecutive Session) (H&SSC forwards Robertson *4. FY2013 IHS Annual Funding GRTI Board Of Directors to Council under New Business in ROLL CALL Agreement Presenters: Linus Ev- APPROVED Executive Session) Sign-In Sheet Circulated erling & Drake Lewis 3. A Resolution Approving And Au- Presenters: Robert Keller & Penni Executive Officers Present: REPORT HEARD thorizing An Agreement Between McCabe Lt. Governor Stephen R. Lewis 5. Summary Report of the 2011 The Gila River Indian Community TABLED AT APPROVAL OF AGENDA Executive Officers Absent: Winter Bird Count And Towers Watson Delaware, Inc. 4. Gila River Health Care Corpora- Governor Gregory Mendoza Presenters: Rudy Mix, Charles For Fiscal Year 2013 (G&MSC for- tion – Credit Card Function Infor- Council Members Present: Enos & Robert Johnson wards to Council with recommenda- mation Technology, and Continued D1-Cynthia Antone, Arzie Hogg; REPORT HEARD tion for approval) Presenters: Rob- Medical Education (Executive D2-Jewel Whitman; D3-Myron G. 6. Gila River Health Care – Tri Care ert Keller & Sharon Harvier-Lewis Session) (H&SSC forwards to Schurz, Dale G. Enos; D4-Monica Medical Transportation Accident APPROVED Council) Antone, Jennifer Allison, Christo- Report 4. A Resolution Approving And Au- Presenter: Penni McCabe pher Mendoza, Barney Enos, Jr.; Presenter: Richard Narcia thorizing An Agreement Between TABLED AT APPROVAL OF AGENDA D5-Janice F. Stewart, Brenda Rob- REPORT HEARD The Gila River Indian Community 5. Revenue/Internal Audit Depart- erson , Franklin Pablo, Sr.; D6-An- 7. The Caring House Annual Audit And Pietzsch, Bonnett & Womack ment – FY12 4th Quarter Report thony Villareal, Sr., Albert Pablo, Report Presenters: Chris Corliss & P.A. For Fiscal Year 2013 (G&MSC (Executive Session) (G&MSC for- Terrance B. Evans; D7- Martha Mark Klein forwards to Council with recom- wards to Council under New Busi- Miller REPORT HEARD mendation for approval) Present- ness in Executive Session) Council Members Absent: 8. Pee Posh Veterans Association ers: Robert Keller & Sharon Harvi- Presenter: Penni McCabe D5- Annette J. Stewart – Fourth Quarter Report FY2012 er-Lewis MOTION MADE AND SECOND TO APPROVAL OF AGENDA Presenter: Dan Jenkins APPROVED ACCEPT APPROVED AS AMENDED HEARD AT BEGINNING OF AGENDA ORDINANCES MINUTES PRESENTATIONS/INTRODUC- 9. Gaming Internal Audit Depart- UNFINISHED BUSINESS 1. August 15, 2012 (Regular) TIONS ment - Fourth Quarter Report July 1. Off-Reservation Gaming (Exec- APPROVED WITH CORREC- 1. Cowboys and Indian Days Schol- 1, 2012 – September 31, 2012 (Ex- utive Session) (G&MSC forwards TIONS arships ecutive Session) to Council with recommendation 2. August 20, 2012 (Special) Presenter: Jewel Whitman Presenter: Robert Russin to approve and adopt the Office of APPROVED COUNCILMAN JEWEL WHIT- MOTION MADE AND SECOND TO General Counsel’s November 14, ANNOUNCEMENTS MAN PRESENTED A CHECK TO ACCEPT 2012 memo, which includes their >BRIEF UPDATE OF THE SEC- THE LT. GOVERNOR STEPHEN RESOLUTIONS recommendations) Presenter: Eric RETARIAL ELECTION R. LEWIS ON BEHALF OF THE 1. A Resolution Establishing Drain- Dahlstrom ADJOURNMENT COMMUNITY. age Easements In District Two And MOTION MADE AND SECOND TO MEETING ADJOURNED AT REPORTS Three To Provide An Outlet For APPROVE AND ADOPT THE OF- 11:56PM *1. School Board Coalition 2nd Stormwater Flows From Within The FICE OF GENERAL COUNSEL’S * Denotes TABLED from previous Quarter Progress Report Mawid And Four Mile Post Subdi- NOVEMBER 14, 2012 MEMO, meeting(s) Presenters: Michelle Lyons & Val- visions, For The Installation Of An WHICH INCLUDES RECOMMEN- Page 20 Gila River Indian News December 2012 Submissions from both sides of Loop 202 Debate In late September, a group of Gila River Landowners submitted an initiative calling for a re-vote to build the proposed Loop 202 Freeway extension on GRIC land. The Community voted on this question earlier this year, choosing the “No Build” option with 48 percent of the vote. The Council Secretary Office is in the process of validating the signatures on Landowners’ initiative. If they are validated, Council has 60 days to schedule a re-vote. Supporters and detractors of the proposed Loop 202 extension were give equal space to express their opinions on the issue. People’s Initiative Infinite O’odham

Submitted by Christi Perez • Residents below 50% of the poverty level Submitted by Linda Paloma Allen works with corporations who want our land? Managing Partner Gila River: 39.3%, State: 7.6% Gila River Against Loop 202 Our leaders are supposed to work for us, not Pangea Development http://www.city-data.com/city/Gila-River-Arizo- Pangea. What about Gila River landowners na.html#ixzz1opoBB92Q I am the daughter of Billy and Toni from our sister tribes, who are opposed to the PANGEA Development, LLC was es- Joseph Perez, a Gila River Indian Com- Loroña Allen, retired teachers and coaches of freeway and who are being courted to sell tablished in 2006 to reconfigure fractionated munity tribal member, was raised on the Gila River students. My paternal grandpar- their land to Pangea? Our government needs Native American allotted lands on the Gila reservation in Blackwater and personally ents from Gila River are Ralston and Rosalie to explain how Pangea has kept the rights to River Indian Reservation. Uniting the land witnessed the disruption to his culture, fam- Allen, who lived in Bapchule. As a teacher in solicit Gila River landowners everywhere for by way of its owners was a vision passed ily units and tribal unity. Joseph Perez stated the Community, I have met people who share freeway right-of-ways, when Gila River has down to company founder, Joseph Perez, by that “We all play an important role to reclaim how my family has quietly helped them. said NO to the proposed freeway. his great uncle Ardel Ruiz. The overall goal our heritage, identity, and cultural beliefs and I too, wanted to quietly dedicate my life to Although I am not from the west end, of PANGEA is to create unity and integration bring unity back to our people and the oppor- serving my people, but the issue of the pro- I know that building a freeway there will for the land and its owners with other GRIC tunities PANGEA presents will help us begin posed freeway came along. forever destroy so much that is good about Community members and neighboring com- a healing journey that entails reclamation of The children in my family and my stu- the west end. I have been told that Muhadag munities within the greater Phoenix Metro- our heritage, identity, and spirituality and will dents are why I am vocal about stopping the Do’ag has healing power. Although I have politan area. neutralize the negative effects of historical freeway. When I tell them about the beau- much to learn about himdag, it is enough for PANGEA envisions an area free of disruptive colonization. We, as individuals, ty and power of our land, I do not want to me to know that it is our Creator’s home, and stigmas and stereotypes where everyone is need to work with our tribal government, the point to a freeway and tell them what villages that my child and my nieces will need it after welcome and will live, work, and connect all state, our neighbors in Arizona and the fed- and families used to be there. I don’t want I am gone. I will fight for it. people to one other while empowering and eral government towards self determination our children breathing in carbon monoxide, We have to protect what is still ours. We stimulating economic and personal growth and self-sufficiency.” particulate matter and vehicle emissions that can all unify around this issue. Whether it is for all. The reconnection of such broken land Unfortunately, this unique project has we know cause asthma and other lingering air quality, public health, protecting himdag, will protect tribal sovereignty and kindle re- been shadowed by widespread attention on respiratory illnesses. Dioxin is a pollutant in loss of agricultural lands, stopping ancestral spect for tribal heritage as well as the natural the extension of the Loop 202 freeway. PAN- vehicle emissions that is linked to insulin re- remains from being disturbed by construc- environment. The current development and GEA would like to clarify that the plan to de- sistance, which would raise the diabetes risk tion, or protecting plant and animal species, project management interests of PANGEA velop the nearly 6,000 acres south of Pecos in our Community. If we allow the freeway (and there are more reasons than that to be lie on approximately 6,000 acres just south Rd. was born well before the controversy of to be built, we are saying the health of our opposed the Loop 202), there is a reason for of Phoenix, bordering the upscale neighbor- the freeway and while the placement of the people is not very important to us. all walks of life to oppose this freeway. hood of Ahwatukee, along Pecos Road. 202 may impact the structure of develop- The current administration says that Outside corporations view our Commu- The Gila River Indian Community is ment, it will not slow or stop it. This project they need to work with the Pecos Landown- nity as easily manipulated and exploited, and currently faced with demoralizing cultural is bigger than a freeway and PANGEA does ers Association (PLA) because that group they will keep offering promises of money to erosion brought about by historical events not intend to let the politics inhibit its for- feels their constitutional rights to have Pan- those O’odham who are attracted to promises that have caused unresolved grief inflicted ward motion. Pangea has merely facilitat- gea develop their land for a freeway are being of money. We have to stand up to the peo- by experiences of colonization. These “soul ed the landowners and community members’ violated. If you were one of the 720 GRIC ple who want to lead us astray from what it wounds” are called Historical Trauma; this desires by facilitating a People’s Initiative. members who voted for NO BUILD, this means to be O’odham. If you have not gotten has caused multi-generational distress yield- The initiative was brought on by individual administration violates your rights too. The involved with stopping the freeway, you can ing harrowing and devastating statistics in- community members and is as it’s titled: a tribe’s own Office of General Counsel con- stand with us now. It is up to this generation cluding alcoholism, drug abuse, troubled People’s initiative, not Pangea’s initiative. sults with Pangea on their plans to develop to stop the freeway, both proposed routes. Af- youth, gangs, violence, lack of education, Pangea is merely facilitating communica- the Pangea City Concept, which is centered ter we stop the on-reservation alignment, our unemployment, underemployment, poverty, tion between the landowners. The initiative around the 202 freeway, and is the size of Community will need to deal with outside in- health problems, suicide, teen pregnancy and is currently in process with the Tribal Gov- over 5000 football fields. The Pangea city terests who want to destroy Muhadag Do’ag high infant mortality rates. ernment as they continue to verify the signa- is not for us. It is for Pangea investors and for their own use. Our land and our mountain The numbers below are REAL statistics tures. Once the signatures have been verified Joey Perez to get rich. If you voted for NO must not be used to solve Phoenix’s growth for the Gila River Indian Community, re- a new vote will determine where the 202 will BUILD, those people, and our elected lead- problem. ceived from the 2009 census report: be built. Clearly building it on Reservation ers are not respecting that. [email protected] • Average Household size helps everyone and will save the mountain, This administration should advocate www.gilariveragainstloop202.wordpress. Gila River: 4 people, Arizona: 2.6 people millions of dollars and create jobs and impact for what the people want, but they continue com • Median Household income Gila River: $26,902, state & tribal economics. to cooperate with pro-freeway supporters. Linda Paloma Allen State: $48,745 What was the point of that vote if our tribe • Percentage of households with unmarried part- For more information on PANGEA, its ners Gila River: 12.9%, State: 6.2% partners or the development project, please • Children below the poverty level Gila River: visit www.pangealand.com or call 480-991- 68.9%, State: 23% 0751. All questions, comments or inquires • Residents below the poverty level Gila River: are welcome! 63.1%, State: 16.9% December 2012 Announcements & Notices Page 21 Federal News and Press Releases Salazar Announces Final Steps on Cobell Litigation and Implementation of Settlement Settlement includes land consolidation program to help promote tribal self-determination and strengthen economic development WASHINGTON, D.C. – Secretary of for individuals to use the land for agricul- to ensure it has the information it needs to a draft land consolidation plan released in the Interior Ken Salazar today lauded the ture, business development, or housing make expeditious and accurate payments,” February of 2012. Interior is incorporating final approval of the Cobell settlement and from which tribes can benefit. Up to $60 Deputy Secretary of the Interior David J. public comments and expects to release an outlined steps that Interior will take to help million of the $1.9 billion fund may be set Hayes said. “At the same time, we’re fo- updated plan by the end of the year for ad- implement the historic $3.4 billion settle- aside to provide scholarships for American cused on making meaningful improve- ditional consultation. ment. The settlement resolves a long-run- Indians and Alaska Natives to attend col- ments to our trust administration so that “The land consolidation program is ning class action lawsuit regarding the lege or vocational school. we’re more transparent, responsive and our chance to begin to solve a fractionation U.S. government’s trust management and “This marks the historic conclusion accountable in managing these substantial problem that has plagued Indian country historical accounting of individual Amer- of a contentious and long running period funds and assets.” for decades,” said Interior Assistant Secre- ican Indian trust accounts. It became final of litigation,” said Hilary Tompkins, So- Trust Land Consolidation Program tary of Indian Affairs Kevin K. Washburn. on November 24, 2012, following action licitor for the Department of the Interior. The Department of the Interior will “We are anxious to get started. We know by the Supreme Court and expiration of the “Through the hard work and good will of use $1.9 billion from the Trust Land Con- that Interior’s continued outreach through appeal period. plaintiffs, Interior and Treasury officials solidation Fund to acquire interests in trust consultations with Indian Country is a “With the settlement now final, we and Department of Justice counsel, we are and restricted lands that have “fractionat- crucial component to accomplishing truly can put years of discord behind us and turning a new page and look forward to ed” over successive generations since the open government-to-government commu- start a new chapter in our nation-to-nation collaboratively working with Indian coun- 1880s. nication” relationship,” said Salazar. “Today marks try to manage these important funds and Individual owners will be paid fair Congress approved the Cobell settle- another historic step forward in President assets.” market value for such interests with the ment on November 30, 2010 as part of the Obama’s agenda of reconciliation and em- Payments to Claimants understanding that the acquired interests Claims Resolution Act of 2010. President powerment for Indian Country and begins The Claims Administrator will now will remain in trust and be consolidated Obama signed the legislation on December a new era of trust administration.” begin overseeing disbursement of the $1.5 for beneficial use by tribal communities. 8, 2010. The district court approved the The settlement includes a $1.5 billion billion to nearly 500,000 class members. Interested sellers may convey their frac- Cobell settlement on August 4, 2011 and fund to be distributed to class members for The court previously approved GCG, Inc., tional interests on a voluntary basis. Cur- it has been upheld through the appeals pro- accounting and potential trust fund and as- as the Claims Administrator. The Depart- rently, there are over 2.9 million fractional cess. set mismanagement claims. The settlement ment of the Treasury will transfer the $1.5 interests owned by approximately 260,000 For additional information about the also includes a $1.9 billion fund for a land billion to an account at JP Morgan Chase, a individuals. individual class-action payments, please consolidation program that allows for the bank approved by the court. Per the terms While the settlement was pending, contact GCG, Inc. at 1-800-961-6109 or voluntary sale of individual land interests of the settlement agreement, Interior’s Of- Interior held a series of consultation meet- via email at [email protected] that have “fractionated,” or split among fice of the Special Trustee (OST) has as- ings with tribes in 2011 to ensure that this For additional information on the owners, over successive generations. sisted GCG with its database by supplying landmark program incorporates tribal pri- Trust Land Consolidation Program, please Fractionated land can have many owners contact information of individual class orities and promotes tribal participation in visit http://www.doi.gov/cobell/index.cfm – sometimes hundreds or more – diminish- members from its records. reducing land fractionation in a timely and ing the land’s value and making it difficult “We will continue to work with GCG efficient way. These discussions informed Office of United NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING States Attorney Sacaton man sen- Notice is hereby given that a public hearing will be respect to the social, economic, and environmental held by the Gila River Indian Community Department aspects of the project. Interested persons may submit tenced for selling of Transportation (“GRICDOT”) at the Community oral or written evidence and recommendations with re- methamphetmine Council meeting of Dec. 5 at the Governance Center spect to said project. on the Gila River in Sacaton, AZ for the purpose of considering a project A copy of grant proposal is currently available for for which financial assistance is being sought from the public inspection at the Department of Transportation Indian Community U.S. Department of Transportation. Grant funds will Administration Office located at the Executive Ke in PHOENIX - On Oct. 2, 2012, be used to build a Community transportation system. Sacaton, AZ. Louis Carlos Juarez-Guzman, 37, At the hearing, GRICDOT will afford an opportu- — Governor Gregory Mendoza of Sacaton, Ariz., was sentenced nity for interested persons or agencies to be heard with by Senior U.S. District Judge Paul G. Rosenblatt to 121 months in federal prison, to be followed LETTER OF NOTIFICATION TO PROVIDERS by five years of supervised re- Includes medical transit (Z Best, Tri-Care, etc), taxi companies lease. Juarez-Guzman pleaded guilty on May 14, 2012, to con- This is to notify you that the Gila River Indian Community Department of Transportation (“GRICDOT”) is applying for financial spiracy to possess with the intent assistance under the ADOT Rural Public Transportation Program authorized under 49 U.S.C Section 5311. This program provides for to distribute methamphetamine. capital, administrative and operating assistance for public transportation programs in rural and small urban areas. GRICDOT proposes to provide the following service: According to court records, Fixed route service to all seven Community districts with (1) proposed route beginning from District 7; (2) proposed route between September 2010 and beginning in District 1; and (3) proposed circulator route in District 3, Sacaton. There may be additional “on demand” routes as June 2011, Juarez-Guzman, a transit system is established. Routes will service all district service centers, Komatke Health Clinic, Huhukam Medical Center, citizen of Mexico, sold metham- Wild Horse Pass Casino and Hotel, Lone Butte Casino, Lone Butte Industrial Park, Vee Quiva Casino and to Community and phetamine to undercover officers Government facilities. Routes are proposed to run seven days a week, 5 am – 12 am. At this time specific schedules and fares on multiple occasions from his are not available. The purpose of this letter is to advise you of our application and to insure that this proposal would not represent a duplication of residence on the Gila River In- your service. Private and public transit and paratransit operators may receive reimbursement funds through purchase of service agree- dian Community and from other ments. Therefore, we solicit your involvement in our proposed service. locations in the East Valley. I ask that you contact this office in writing within 10 days if you believe that you can provide all or a part of this service or if you Juarez-Guzman’s co-defen- have specific objections to the proposed project. In your letter you should state your specific objections or counter proposal. If you dant, Rose Marie Gonzales, is support the application, please complete a letter of support. Contact our office for a template that we will provide. scheduled to be sentenced be- Our address is: Gila River Indian Community DOT PO BOX 97 fore Judge Rosenblatt on Oct. 29, Sacaton, AZ 85247 2012. Phone number: 520-562-6110 The investigation in this case In addition, please send a copy of your letter to the Arizona Department of Transportation, which is the funding agency for the was conducted by the Gila River Rural Public Transportation Program. Their address is: Police Department and the U.S. Arizona Department of Transportation Bureau of Indian Affairs. The 206 South 17th Avenue, Room 340 B Phoenix, Arizona 85007-3213 prosecution is being handled by Attention: 5311 Program Manager Christina J. Reid-Moore, Assis- Should you desire any additional information on the proposed service, please contact: tant U.S. Attorney, District of Ar- Sasha Saliego, Transportation Planner, GRICDOT 520-562-6110 or via email at [email protected] izona, Phoenix. Page 22 Gila River Indian News December 2012 December 2012 Gila River Indian News Page 23

Gila River Health Care - “Growing” Forward

Submitted by Mr. Virgil Davis in the Tuesday and Thursday patients with the goal customers are able to monitor the progress of their Chief Operating Officer to add Saturdays’ in the near future. food order. A new menu will feature a wide variety Gila River Health Care of items including breakfast, lunch, and snack Conversion to the new scheduling software is options. The newly remodeled area is intended to Gila River Health Care (GRHC) Board of Directors complete, and all of our drivers are using iPads for be a space where employees and visitors may and Executive Leadership continue to guide the patients’ transport. Passenger signatures are enjoy a tasty meal in a comfortable, friendly extraordinary, professional talents of our captured electronically with the patient signing environment. In order to improve the overall employees with the goal of providing exceptional directly onto the iPad. The new software supports health and wellness of visitors and employees, the and culturally-competent customer service to our productivity and helps keep GRHC menu has expanded and includes additional patients. We proudly point to many significant environmentally conscious. nutritional food choices prepared in a healthy way. accomplishments since the beginning of 2012. However, these are, of course, collective In our effort to strive for customer service achievements, and the credit deservedly goes to excellence, the MTS Department will continue to Our services and programs will continue to remain our committed staff members and partners, for incorporate plans to improve transportation visible and our staff held accountable to not only they have led or simply embraced and services for patients, families, and the Community. GRHC, but to our patients and the Community as championed GRHC’s mission and vision in their To this end, MTS is currently hiring Medical Van well. We are proactively taking charge of key daily interaction with patients and in their outreach Drivers with good driving records. For more initiatives and issues that may arise by modifying within the Community. information, contact Miranda White, Human known systems, structures, processes, and Resources Recruiting Manager at 520-562-3321 procedures. It is important that we participate, Fiscal year 2013 has begun with new challenges ext. 1398 or (602) 528-1398. Or you can visit the coordinate, and listen to accomplish desired and opportunities - all related to positive, managed Career Opportunities page on the GRHC website, outcomes with those individuals and groups that growth. Gila River Health Care continues to be GRHC.ORG. we are in contact with on a daily, weekly, and accountable, transparent, and fiscally responsible monthly basis. for the delivery of health care services, investment Food Services Department: Due to the in technology and equipment, and, equally expansion of the Hu Hu Kam Memorial Hospital’s Thank you for the opportunity to serve you! important, our investment in the infrastructure for cafeteria, food service will not be offered new and existing buildings and construction. beginning Monday, December 3, 2012. This Medical Transportation Services expansion marks the completion of another Department Contact Information milestone of GRHC HUD Phase I Red Flag Projects. Sacaton Office Two key initiatives that GRHC is committed to are The newly remodeled food services department is the following: Direct Line: (602) 528-1384 expected to re-open on Wednesday, January 23, Switchboard: (520) 562-3321, (602) 528-1200 2013. During the temporary closure, GRHC will be Toll Free: 1 (888) 484-8526 ext. 1384 Medical Transportation Services (MTS): contracting with a mobile food catering business MTS continues its expansion of services in order to to offer services on-site starting on Monday, Komatke Office Direct Line: (520) 550-6328 meet the increase of daily patient requests: This December 3, 2012. The mobile food catering Switchboard: (520) 550-6000 necessary expansion of services will address the services will be located in the parking lot south of growing demand for consistent, quality of care the existing cafeteria. *Transportation requests must be made 2 while remaining the preferred provider of business days in advance transportation for our Community. MTS has begun The expanded food service area will feature an insourcing our Dialysis patients at GRHC’s Dialysis open environment and exposed kitchen so that East and West locations. We are gradually phasing

Don’t Forget: Flu Season Is Here! Get Your Flu Vaccination Today!

Komatke Health Center Hu Hu Kam Memorial Hospital Ak-Chin Health Clinic 17487 South Healthcare Drive 483 West Seed Farm Road 48203 West Farrell Road Laveen, Az 85339 Sacaton, AZ 85147 Maricopa, AZ 85239 Phone: 520-550-6000 Phone: 520-562-3321 Phone: 520-568-3881 Fax: 520-550-6033 Fax: 602-528-1240 Fax: 520-568-3884 Accountability Commitment Patients & Families Culture Quality Self-Governance Trust ishes you & your family a appy oliday eason

PLEASE DONATE A NEW UNWRAPPED TOY Collection dates: NOVEMBER 1, 2012 - DECEMBER 18, 2012 Collection Sites: ALL GILA RIVER FIRE DEPARTMENT STATIONS & TRIBAL RECREATION WELLNESS CENTER

All collected gifts directly benefit Gila River Indian Community Tribal Social Services, Residential Programs for Youth and Community Head Start Programs.

A partnership between Gila River Indian Community Fire Department & Marine Corps Toys for Tots of Pinal County.

For more information or schedule a toy pick-up contact: Merlena Calabaza at (520) 562-6087 | Amber Childs at (520) 562-2025