GILA RIVER INDIAN NEwS - Gila River Indian Community
Transcription
GILA RIVER INDIAN NEwS - Gila River Indian Community
NICK LOWERY Pg 7 CONGRESSMAN VISITS D1 Pg 8 RAWHIDE DOOMTOWN Pg 15 G ila R iver I ndian N ews October 2011 www.gilariver.org/news Vol 14, No.10 Serving all seven districts of the Gila River Indian Community Gila River Indian News P.O. Box 459 Sacaton, AZ 85147 Change Service Requested O'odham Veterans Celebration honors Community Veterans Presorted Standard U.S. Postage PAID Sacaton, AZ Permit No. 25 Mihio Manus/GRIN A ceremonial staff was placed front and center at the celebration. Soldiers showed respect and honor to the staff just as they did the flags that were posted at each side of the speaker¹s podium. By Mihio Manus Managing Editor BLACKWATER-. Beyond the patriotism, posting of colors and war stories, there is much that lies beneath the surface of the O’odham Veterans Celebration. There is a true sense of bonding and camaraderie that unites the attending veterans no matter what division of the armed forces they served in. Dennis Perkins, from D1, is a Vietnam veteran who served in the Navy and is a current member of Post #41 in Phoenix. Perkins said he looks forward to the annual celebration as a time to reunite with other veterans from around the local vicinity. He’s a proud veteran who feels the Navy has been beneficial to his life. Beyond reuniting with old friends, the celebration gives veterans the opportunity to meet new friends and establish new relationships. Althought it's known as the O'odham Veterans Celebration, veterans from across the state have made it a priority to attend. “I met someone today who was in the same area as I was,” Perkins said. “I didn’t know him before today.” Vietnam veteran, Leonard Jim, D3, echoed Perkins sentiment. Jim served in the Navy and Air Force for eight years and is a member of the Haskell Osife-Antone Post #51 SACATON-On Sat, Oct. 1, before a packed council chambers, Community members were given an opportunity to voice their opinions on the referendum language regarding the proposed South Mountain 202 extension freeway. Listed on the Special Council meeting agenda as ‘A Resolution Approving and Authorizing A Referendum Of The Construction Of The South Mountain 202 Extension Freeway Through The Gila River Indian Reservation’, the item was presented by Gila River Indian Community’s Transportation Technical Team (TTT). Dialogue between Community members and Council became heated with the majority of those in attendance pushing to have a ‘no-build’ option written into the referendum language. Up until this meeting the two options presented on the referendum were ‘yes’, indicating that Community members were in favor of the proposed GRIC alignment, and ‘no’, indicating Community members were against the GRIC alignment. Based on the two options, many Community members felt that limiting the vote to these options wasn’t representative of their position on the South Mountain Loop 202 Extension. Many stated, especially those from D6 where the freeway will have the most impact, that their position has always been GRIN Page Index By Transportation Technical Team in area around D6. “I find it offensive that ‘no build’ is not an option according to the TTT,” she said. Former president of the Akimel O’odham/Pee Posh Youth Council, Darius Enos told council that the issue before them held significant importance and impact to the whole community. “This has everything to do with our youth, our himdak,” he said. “People do value our himdak, our culture and our values.” Enos said he hoped a ‘no build’ option would be included in the referendum. Having heard the plethora of similar opinions Community Council motioned to add No build continued on page 7 Responses continued on page 6 Veterans ‘no-build’. Community member, Joseph Morago said he has listened to information presented to the districts for the past nine months and has heard nothing about a ‘no-build’ option. Morago said, “Given the right information the people will make the right decision on this matter.” Many members of the audience put forth strong opinions regarding the freeway extension. D5 educator, Linda Allen said if built, the Loop 202 South Mountain Extension would not benefit GRIC as much as it would the Metropolitan Phoenix area. Allen went on to say that vehicle emissions from the freeway will have an adverse affect on reproductive health and that emissions will linger As reported in the September 2011 issue of the GRIN Q: We would like to know why the last 20 years opposition to the freeway coming on or near our land has been thrown out the window by our present Government? Q: Has the issue been brought up that it has been voted against back in 2000? And if so, how? If it hasn’t been brought up, why not? Q: Was the 2005 resolution brought up, the resolution in which the community reinforced the District Six resolution in 2000 against building the loop 202? A: Point in fact, the 1996 Community Council passed GR-05-96: A Resolution Approving the Concept of Development of the South Mountain Freeway on Community Lands (Toll Road); and GR-6496: A Resolution Designating Possible Routes on Community Lands for the Proposed South Mountain Freeway (Loop 202); which is the exact alignment being considered by the voters today. In 2000, the Community Council passed GR-126-00: A Resolution Opposing the Use of 51st Avenue for the Proposed Truck Bypass Route and Any Future Bypass Plans for the Proposed South Mountain Parkway through the District Six Community of the Gila River Indian continued on page 6 Community Response Prompts No Build Option By Mihio Manus Managing Editor Reponses to Community member concerns over Loop 202 Sports Page 9 Page 9 Letters/Opinions Page 3 Culture Community Page 4-5 Action Sheets Page 16,17,18 Education Page 7-8 Public Notices Page 18 October 2011 Gila River Indian News Gila River Telecommunications, Inc. “Proudly serving the Gila River Indian Community since 1988” Box 5015, 7065 West Allison Road, Chandler, Arizona 85226-5135 (520) 796-3333 • www.gilanet.net • fax (520)796-7534 Accessing the GRTI phone directory has become even easier. Have you tried our new Mobile site? GRTI has created a mobile site where you can use your mobile phone to access our directory online. How do you access the GRTI.mobi site? All you have to do is use your cell phone Internet browser, type GRTI.mobi into the Internet address bar and you will find everything in our directory on the new mobile site! Its that simple! A simple and convenient way to pay your bill online. “eBill” a simple and convenient way to pay your bill online. Once registration is complete you will be able to login, view past payments, and call history. Plus if you have a secondary account you will be able to keep track of those accounts too! Call GRTI Customer Service for questions at (520) 796-3333 Page 2 October 2011 Page 3 LETTERS/OPINIONS Happy Birthday Tianni In loving memory of Michelle Sneed Michelle Marvene Sneed 07/27/1975-10/30/2010 A Memorial Service has been set for:Sunday, October 30, 2011 9am Sunrise Service & Blessing of Head Stone Co-Op Cemetery Open to all Choirs, person, and Traditional Singers Lunch will be severed @ Pee Posh Amphitheater D7 till 5pm. Questions contact Estelle Barehand: 602-501-9623/520-430-1034 Gila River Indian News Mihio Manus [email protected] GRIN Managing Editor (520)562-9718 Roberto A. Jackson [email protected] GRIN Community Newsperson (520)562-9719 Gina Goodman [email protected] GRIN Secretary II (520)562-9715 Walt P. Porter [email protected] GRIN Intern (520)562-9717 Fax: (520)562-9712 Email: [email protected] www.gilariver.org/index.php/news Gila River News Material published in the Gila River Indian News may not be reproduced in any form without consent from the Gila River Indian Community LETTERS POLICY: GRIN welcomes letters and columns from readers. Letters should be limited to 200 words and be in good taste. Material that could be libelous or slanderous is not acceptable. All letters or columns should be signed with the writer’s true name, address and telephone number in the event GRIN may need to contact the writer. Only the name of the writer will be printed in the paper. Letters or columns without a complete signature, name, address or phone number will not be acceptable to GRIN for publication. GRIN reserves the right to edit submitted materials for grammar, spelling and content. Write to: Editor, GRIN P.O. Box 459 Sacaton, AZ 85147 Tianni Francis Whitman As your 6th Birthday approaches our songs of laughter reflect the years gone by. This brings tears of happiness and joy.We are blessed to have been through the years learning and growing happily as Father and Daughter .To see the brightness of your future brings great excitement . So let us be protected and blessed by Jiosh and our angels as we continue this beautiful cruise making music through life. Happy BDay My Nanni's!Love Daddy! In Loving Memory of Doris June Morago January 16, 1951-October 19, 2010 A year has come for the late Doris June Morago , there’s not a day that goes by that we don’t forget her. But we still continue to have those days of her going into rest that are hard to believe. The impact she had made in our lives has been a true blessing. We would like to thank our family and friends for all the support throughout the year. We Miss and Love You Mom! Robert & June Morago In Loving Memory Phyllis Jean Juan Sutto Published letters or columns do not necessarily reflect the opinion of the editor or Gila River Indian Community. Gila River Indian Community P.O. Box 459 Sacaton, AZ 85147 (520)562-9715 www.gilariver.org/grin William R. Rhodes, Governor Joseph Manuel , Lt. Governor District #1: Arzie Hogg Cynthia Antone Distrcit #2: Jewell Whitman District #3: Dale G. Enos Myron Schurz District #4: Barney B. Enos Jr. Jennifer Allison Christopher Mendoza Gregory Mendoza District #5 Brenda Robertson Brian Davis Annette J. Stewart Janice Stewart District #6 Anthony Villareal Sr. Albert Pablo Terrance B. Evans District #7 Martha Miller Robert Keller, Tribal Treasurer Linda Andrews, Community Council Secretary On behalf of my cousin Cheyenne Pancott.He would like to thank everyone for their prayers and support in his time of need.Especially to the Gila River Indian Comm Fire and EMS depts.Their Generous Donation made it possible for Cheyenne to bring her home.With that in mind''Why isn't there funding in the community to help the enrolled Urban Natives who live out of state and would like to be properly buried back home?'' Also an extended thank you to Wanda Pablo,Gordon Santos,Rose Lucero,Carol Santos,Monica Pablo and their families,Ophelia and Albert Cruz,Randy Ruiz,Genevieve Woodbury of Public Works,Sunshine Jackson, District Five, The Grave Diggers, Nicole Miles, Marshell Jose, Alberta Kisto, Veronica Patrick, St.Peters Church, Harold Patrick, Patsy Rivers, Cecil Lewis, The Joaquin Sisters, Georgie Charles and The Indian Choir,Sacaton Presb Church, Traditional Singer, Keith and Eric Kisto. Again Thank You All so very much for blessing us in a very special way. You Will Be Missed Auntie Phyllis. A.Escarsega On behalf of the family of Dora Miles We would like to thank everyone that helped us in our time of grief in the loss of our Mother, Grandmother, Great Grandmother, Great-Great Grandmother, Sister in-Law, Aunt, and Friend; she will be dearly missed. We would like to thank Districts 4 & 2 personnel for their assistance and the Department of Transportation. We appreciate the thoughtfulness for all the flowers and extended condolences from the various Departments of which our family members work with daily. Thank you also to our Tribal Council, the Tribal Business Enterprises and The Executive Office for their flowers and thoughtfulness. Thank you also for the encouragement and prayers from the Traditional singers and all the choirs through their songs. Thank you to our church family; the Lower Santan Presbyterian Chapel and its members, Harrison George for leading our Wake Service. We appreciate and thank Loretta Blackwater for the time she gave to our loved one when she was still with us and for her help during the time we put her to rest. There were many friends of the family that we extend our gratitude for the preparations for the meal that we shared with everyone. Thank you to all that helped in one way or another during our time of sorrow. Jorene Soto PO BOX #2046 Sacaton, AZ 85147 602)541-9824 Thank you from the Allen family The family of Emmaline Allen, Mother, Grandmother, Great Grandmother, Auntie, Sister in law & Friend : We would like to thank everyone who supported us in the sudden passing of our dear Mother and to express our gratitude and appreciation to the friends and family who came to sit and visit with her before her passing, especially those who sang gospel songs and prayed with her and the family, I know it was a Great comfort to her. We also would like to thank all who came over to the residence to help prepare for her wake and funeral and Thanks to all those who donated food and the beautiful flowers for the services, I wish we could name everyone but the list would be too long, you all know who you are, May the Good Lord Bless you. Many thanks goes out to those who offered their condolences and prayers, A Special Thanks goes out the Grace Hospice of Mesa and its wonderful nurses who assisted in the care of our mother. Thanks to the our nieces and nephews for pulling together and getting things done, remember without a family you have no one. Thanks to: Family & Friends J. Warren funeral home Vah-ki Presbyterian church D5 Service center Capt. Johnson-fire GR Fire A&B shift from Station 3 GRICDOT GR Police GR Head start All choirs God Bless you all , The Allen family “ Mothers holds their children’s hands for a while but their hearts forever” 2nd Year Death Anniversary for Bernell F. Lewis Jr. “POSSUM” 4/18/91 - 9/8/09 On Friday, September 9, 2011 was a day of remembrance for our beloved Possum. Even though the days came so fast that there was little time to make preparations. God bless to all Aunties, relatives and friends for lending their support and donations. With plenty of food and the sound of chick- en scratch music, Possums memory was kept alive. Once again with just 3 days notice the Jose and Wood family from North Komelik had the memorial necklaces done so everyone could have something to remember Possum by. Thank you to Ms. Annie Quintero for the magnificent painting you did, that captures our eye every time we walk in my mother’s home. A big thank you to all bands: Group Familia, P-Dub, and Native Creed (Cody Lopez for the use equipment.) We miss Possum dearly, but this year 2011 he was reunited with loved ones that have passed on, His Aunt Shirleen Makil, Step-Grandfather David Garcia, cousin Ean Wood, and Uncle Big Joe Friesson Sr. Thaey all will live in our hearts forever. No words can express much thankfulness to all that took part rather by donation or just your presence at the memorial for Possum. Thanks & God Bless to all. Sincerely, Karen, Bernella and Mykey Lewis October 2011 Page 4 COMMUNITY SECTION Your Per Capita Corner Quarterly Per Capita Schedule: Free service for elders, new shareholders for GRTI. Quarterly Deadline Payment Date September 15October 31, 2011 (Mon) December 15 January 31, 2012 (Tues) Trust Early Disbursement Request : December 30 January 16, 2012 (Mon) (Checks mailed) A friendly hello and Best Wishes for a fun and safe fall season. There is only one more payment left for the year of 2011 – Monday, October 31. Then we will start the New Year for your 2012 per capita. Here are a few friendly reminders and as always, if you have any Per Capita questions please stop by the office located in the Governance center across from the Cashiers office. We are open Mon. – Fri., 8 a.m. -5 p.m. or call our direct line 562-5222 or (866) 416-2618. Per capita information and forms are available: 1) on the community website: www.mygilariver.com, 2) call the Per Capita Office (“PCO”) and we can mail the information to your official Enrollment address, or 3) visit the PCO. New adult applications: Members turning 18 years old by January 31, 2012 and applying for adult per capita, must apply by December 15, 2011 in order to be eligible for the January 31st payment. Payment Method Change: If you are already receiving PC and want to change the way you receive your payment, you will need to submit a “Payment Method Change Form” to change your account number or payment method by the Quarterly Deadline. Please use the proper forms to update your information; do not submit another application if you have already been approved for per capita payments. Also note: if you cash your check at a bank different than your personal bank, you may be accessed a check cashing fee. Official mailing address and W-9s: We cannot stress the importance of correct and current contact information, in case we have to correspond with you or if your payments will be mailed to you directly. All updates to your mailing address need to be completed with the Enrollment department using the “Address Update Form”. For each update, also submit an updated “IRS W-9 Form” to the PCO showing your most current address. A current W-9 form will: 1) complete your per capita file and 2) validate your social security number for your annual IRS form 1099. The W-9 form is very simple to fill out - your name, current mailing address, SS#, signature and today’s date. “Power of Attorney for Per Capita Distribution” (POA): The only POA form that is accepted for Per Capita Office use is the Gila River POA. The form, if correctly filled out, is only valid for one year from the date it is notarized. The POA must be on file with the PCO 45 days prior to the payout date. So, that means for the October 31st payout date, a valid POA must have been notarized by September 15th. Income verification (recent statements): The PCO does not mail or fax income verification letters to any department within or outside of the Community. We ask that members show their per capita pay stub or earnings payment statements for income verification. It is your responsibility to keep track of your statements to use for income verification. Earning Statements: If you receive payment by check, the top portion of your check is your statement. For direct deposits or a pay card, the statement is mailed to your official Enrollment address. If you are not getting your statements in the mail, again, make sure your official address is current with the Enrollment Dept. The PCO will gladly provide you with a copy of your recent check stub. Stop by the office with a valid picture ID, or call our office and we can mail a copy to your official Enrollment address. When picking up in person, the statement can only be issued to the member named on the statement. In other words, we cannot issue statements to family members or accept notes. Quarterly Per Capita Amount: This amount is calculated and approved by the Community Treasurer and the Governor approximately one week prior to the Payment Date. In the prior weeks, updates are made to member accounts per documents submitted by Community members and the eligible member lists are finalized. Each quarterly per capita amount will vary, depending on that quarter’s gaming activity and net revenues assigned for per capita (11% of net gaming revenues). GRIC 1099 Forms for 2011: Per capita payments are considered taxable income. The IRS 1099 form for your 2011 per capita (plus other GRIC payments you may have received) will be mailed out to your official mailing address on file with Enrollment by January 31, 2012. So you can file your taxes in a timely manner, please make sure your mailing address is current. PER CAPITA TRUST ACCOUNTS We strongly encourage you to submit your request to Providence First Trust as early as possible in the quarter. This will give Providence a chance to preview your request and notify you if further information or corrections are needed. You can request a copy of the Minor Trust Guidelines brochure from Providence (800) 350-0208 or (480) 2828812. www.mygilariver.com/percapita Walt Porter/GRIN Shareholders attending were automatically entered into a raffle drawing for many prizes like iPods, laptops, gift cards and an iPad. By Walt Porter GRIN/Intern BLACKWATER – On Sept. 22 at the District 1 Multipurpose Building, Gila River Telecommunications Inc. (GRTI) presented the shareholders with a motion that would stop the annual meetings in exchange for a program to help the elders of the Community. The Community Council would be the new shareholders. A majority vote from the community shareholders allowed GRTI to implement the Elder Concession Program (ECP). This program would provide every elders 55 and older standard telephone line service for free. According to Bruce Holdridge, the General Manager of GRTI, $15,000 is spent on the annual event which includes a catered lunch, raffle prizes, the rental of the hall and other expenses. Holdridge said, "It was agreed by the elders and everyone there that we’re going to stop doing this." Darrell Gerlaugh, member of Gila River Telecommunications Board of Directors made the reccomendation. The GRTI Board meetings will continue on the last Wednesday of the month at their headquarters in Lone Butte. GRTI said they would be happy to provide lunch for those who attend those meetings. One Elder Community member from Blackwater said he did not favor for the motion and said, “Who would attend those meetings that they have?” He stated that having shareholder meetings allowed an open discussion and they could actually see who was making the decisions so that would not allow finger pointing. “We can still have community meetings and give an update, same with Elderly Concerns. There’s other ways for people to get updated on what we’re doing,” Boardmember Gerlaugh said. According to Gerlaugh, the annual shareholder meetings were for out-of-state shareholders to discuss numbers and new business. The outside shareholders were bought out, by the Community. However the outdated bylaws required implementing the annual meetings which later turned into an annual luncheon for the community members. “We would have 4-6 thousand dollars left over. We would save money by doing that,” said Gerlaugh. He continued with his hopes that every single elder has access to a phone. And once they have access to a phone, they will have access to First Alert for those that need that extra assistance. “The gathering, the camaraderie, the interest that they share is something that really needs to be felt, but the benefits from it are great. The ECP for the seniors is so fantastic!” a first time attendant from D1 said. The ECP is for elders only, GRTI hasn't reached the point of providing everyonewith free phone service, but they are looking into lowering the prices. Be Informed Stay Informed! Getting information out one issue at a time. For subscription information, contact The Communication and Public Affairs Office (520) 562-9715 or www.gilariver.org October 2011 COMMUNITY SECTION Page 5 Audit of Lt. Governor Joseph Manuel brings forth allegations of employee rights violations By GRIN Staff SACATON-On Tue., Oct. 11, 2011 the Gila River Indian Community Council motioned (11 For; 1 Opposed; 2 Abstained) to initiate proceedings pursuant to Article XII, Section 2 of the GRIC constitution against Lt. Gov. Joseph Manuel. Article XII outlines removal from office procedures. Section 2 deals specifically with removal of elected officials. This action came after a Special Audit Report revealed allegations of improper conduct by Lt. Gov. Manuel towards 16 GRIC employees. Among the 16 individuals who were interviewed there were, according to their statements, instances where they were harassed, threatened and or intimidated by Lt. Gov. Manuel dating back from his time as GRIC Community Manager to very recently during his time as Lt. Governor. In addressing concerns brought forth in the audit regarding the intimidation of employees, Lt. Governor Manuel said, “that as long as an employee is doing their job, they have Job Fair open to Community By Walt Porter GRIN/Intern SACATON – Employment and Training (E&T) will host job fair open to the Community Friday, Oct. 28 with various Gila River departments offering on-the-spot interviews. Not only will community departments be hiring but other resources will be available, such as colleges and health department information. During former Gov. Thomas White's administration, October 14 was declared Tribal Career Day. The proclamation to the Community was put into effect in 1988. E&T wanted to run with that idea and have the job fair in the same month. E&T provides work experience programs, summer youth programs, volunteer positions and employment opportunites for members. The program now has approximately 500 active individuals. Including an additional 400 people who take advantage of walkin services to look over resumes, use the computer lab or have questions on potential jobs. Teresa Masayesva, Training Coordinator for E&T, said that the staff needs to be adaptive to the high-traffic flow of people in and out of the office. Within the Community, interest in finding employment is high. “It’s changed because the job market changed, it’s more competitive,” Masayes- va said. October is a great time for people to get actively involved in job seeking. Typically it’s the best month to find employment, because departments in the Community know their budget and what positions they can offer. “It’s good for the young Gila River college student to discover what they can get into,” said Teresa Masayesva.. She explained they are trying everything they can to get the community prepared for the on-sight interviews; they even rolled out a booth for mock interviews. E&T Coordinators will utilize the booth to teach basic interviewing skills, look over resumes and provide information on what to put onto a GRIC application. The job fair will also host entertainment. Every year they have a fashion show that highlights appropriate work attire. They ask staff members from different departments to dress in attire that is appropriate to their office and also items that would not fly. “We try to support any memo coming from the Governor,” Masayesva said. She said it would be interesting to have a skit on social media use in the workplace, because of the memo sent out to GRIC employees on misuses. Anyone attending the four hour job fair is encouraged to bring at least 10 copies of their resume to give to the 20-30 different employers. nothing to worry about.” Lt. Governor Manuel went further in stating that if there is going to be an investigation into employee rights violations it should start from the top down. Lt. Governor Manuel expressed his concern over not being afforded a copy of the audit, and questioned whether or not his rights were being violated. Government & Management Standing Committee directed the Department of Internal Audit to conduct the investigation; the audit findings were then presented to Legislative Standing Committee who then motioned to move the audit before the Community Council. Under article 12 section 2 of the Constitution and Bylaws of the Gila River Indian Community, Lt. Gov. Manuel will be provided with a redacted copy of the investigative audit at least 10 days before the meeting at which he is to appear and be given the opportunity to reply to any and all charges before the decision of Council will is made. According to the motion proceedings of the allegations are to occur within a 30 day business time frame. Gila River Indian News October 2011 Page 6 O'odham Veterans continued from page 1 Walt Porter/GRIN Dirk Kalka, D4, an Army veteran who served in the Korean Conflict, stands next to Urban Giff, D6, Vietnam veteran who served in the Marines. The annual celebration serves to reunite old friends and family. Walt Porter/GRIN Leonard Jim, D3, was dressed in his fatigues as were many veterans who attended the celebration. Jim belongs to the Haskell Osife-Antone Post #51 from Blackwater. Walt Porter/GRIN Dennis Perkins, D1, is a Vietnam veteran who served in the Navy. Perkins attends on a yearly basis and said last years celebration was just as good as this years. from Blackwater. “It’s a good thing,” he said. “I’m glad the post has gotten it going. I get to see classmates and cousins.” The day started at 5 a.m. with a sunrise blessing and healing ceremony for veterans and their families. Master of Ceremonies, Urban Giff facilitated the program, introducing each presenter and entertainer. At 8 a.m., the program officially began with David Anderson giving a welcome address, which segued into the opening prayer, a blessing, the posting of colors and national anthem. Moving through the program veterans were addressed by guest speakers like GRIC Lt. Governor, Joseph Manuel who thanked the veterans for their dedication and service to our country. A surplus of DOD equipment, like boots and fatigues, was also distributed amongst the veterans in attendance. The program hosted a slew of entertainment from the T’ohono O’odham Veterans Band and Black Dog Singers to comedian Teresa Choyugha and the Hashan Kehk Basket Dancers. To see veterans from far and wide both younger and elder was an assurance that the Community’s commitment to honor veterans was solidly intact. Veterans of most every conflict were represented from the Korean Conflict and Vietnam to more recent conflicts such as Desert Storm and the War in Iraq. It’s important to note that Native Americans have always protected their traditional lands and borders. They have always honored the land on which they've lived and from which they’ve subsisted. It’s no different in this modern era. When our soldiers leave to defend our rights to freedom, it’s the oft circumstance they are met with adversity upon their return. The generations of returning veterans hope to change that. Master of Ceremonies, Urban Giff, D6, spoke to this issue. “We need to make sure veterans know that people welcome them and appreciate their service. During Vietnam, soldiers were criticized during the war,” Giff said. As a Marine and Vietnam Veteran with 20 years service to his credit, his views are molded by experience. Events like the O’odham Veterans Celebration are steps toward healing the wounds and burdens veterans carry through camaraderie and honor. Responses to Loop 202 concerns continued from page 1 Community. Q: What steps have the Executive Office, Community Council, Transportation Technical Team or the Law Office taken to up-hold the previous Council resolutions to protect the Mountain and to refrain from allowing the Loop 202 being built on Community land? Q: How can you allow the Community to make a decision on this issue when there have been no facts given to any of us? A: The TTT presented an update and information on the Arizona Department of Transportation (ADOT), Maricopa Association of Governments (MAG) and the Federal Highways South Mountain Freeway (Loop 202) activities during 16 different district meetings that would entertain the request to present. These included 3 times at the District 6 Committee meeting and were present at the D6 Loop 202 Rally, to the Urban Members Association, at the Elderly Concerns meeting and the Council of Elders meeting. During these outreach meetings, the TTT provided the ADOT’s Loop 202 plan, Governor Rhodes’ response to the State and County’s plan requesting cooperation with the Community to identify ways to mitigate the cultural and environmental impacts to their alignment, the State’s and County’s alignment, the alternate alignment identified in GR-05-06, as well as possible impacts to consider. Q: We must question the judgment of all of our leaders in allowing this vote to take place without a proper EIS report from the state of Arizona. Q: Has there been an environmental study done? A: GRIC’s Department of Environmental Quality, Cultural Resources Department and Department of Transportations comments have been included in the Study’s Environmental Impact Statement (EIS); the draft EIS has not yet been released for “public comment.” If there is a proposed date for release, we may want to disclose it. According to ADOT’s website, “When the Draft Environmental Impact Statement is released to the public, it will detail the options considered in the Southwest Valley and describe the reasons why the 55th Avenue Alternative was selected as the preliminary preferred option for the Western Section. The draft report will also detail the Pecos Road option being considered in the Eastern Section area of the study. If other options become available to study, the process will take those into account. The draft report also will discuss the "No-Build Alternative" for the entire South Mountain Freeway to examine the effects of not building the freeway as proposed by MAG. The draft report will be made available for at least 45 days for the public to review and comment. During that comment period, two public hearings will be held on the contents of the Draft Environmental Impact Statement. From there, the public will have another 30-day opportunity to comment on the Final Environmental Impact Statement. The comments received during both 45-day and 30-day comment periods will be used by ADOT and Federal Highway Administration in making a final decision regarding the project. That final decision will be presented in the Record of Decision by FHWA. ADOT will begin acquiring rightof-way after the final decision is made.” Q: How do you all justify forcing us to vote on bringing hazardous cancerous causing pollutants into our community without telling us their affects or how much? Q: How can our community prosper when we do not have any leadership that considers the health of all of the people before the wealth of a handful of people? A: The cultural well being and the health of the members, especially in District 6, was one of the reasons Governor Rhodes wrote to the State requesting Community participation in the decision making process of any transportation route that would directly or indirectly impact the members of this Community. If GRIC does not have a seat at the table, then our voice will never be heard. Q: We are still in the planning stage, therefore, we would like you all to cease and desist with manipulating people. The Community has maintained its neutrality, has NOT committed to any decisions and has NOT made any agreements regarding the South Mountain Freeway (Loop 202) alignment or any other alternate alignment. The Community has been forthcoming and has provided the members of Gila River with all the information that has been afforded them on this issue. Q: As long as the ADOT web site states that "No-Build" is still an option then stop telling us that the freeway is going to come whether we like it or not. Why is the "No Build Option" not being discussed? A: According to ADOT’s website, “the draft EIS report will discuss the "No-Build Alternative" for the entire South Mountain Freeway to examine the effects of not building the freeway as proposed by MAG.” According to ADOT, the State determined that “No-Build” was not an alternative.In other words, it is ADOT’s position that a freeway shall be built. If the Community has not invested any funds into opposing this freeway or even looked into the possibility of fighting for the lives of our citizens; then how can you all believe there is no way to oppose the freeway? Q: We would like to request that the people be given a fair chance to voice our opinion and allow the no-build option to be placed on the ballot. A: During a Special Council meeting held, Saturday October 1, 2011 the Community Council moved to include “No-Build” as a South Mountain Freeway (Loop 202) alignment ballot option. The Community Council will set a date for the vote at a later time. Q: Transportation Technical Team members to bring all of the information that was given to the council (which persuaded Council to turn their backs on the previous Council resolutions) out to the Districts before any of us are forced to vote. A: As directed by the Natural Resources Standing Committee, the TTT provided all information to the Community members at 16 different presentations first; the Community Council has not entertained the presentation thus far. Q: Are you for the South Mountain Freeway on our land, yes or no? Are you for the South Mountain Freeway through the mountain, yes or no? A: The TTT is tasked with implementing directives from the Executive Office and/ or the Community Council, and to provide information to the Community and gather input from Community members on all transportation routes within and that may affect the Community. The TTT has mMaintained a neutral position which is critical to an unbiased process. October 2011 EDUCATION SECTION Community Responses continued from page 1 language to the referendum specifying a ‘no-build’ option in addition to the ‘yes/ no’ options. The motion was approved. A specific date to vote on the referendum will be determined by GRIC’s election office. According to GR-164-11, A RESOLUTION APPROVING AND AUTHORIZING A REFERENDUM OF THE CONSTRUCTION OF THE SOUTH MOUNTAIN 202 EXTENTION FREEWAY THROUGH THE GILA RIVER INDIAN RESERVATION, GRIC Community Council has authorized this referendum to indicate Community member’s decision to favor or oppose the construction of the South Mountain 202 Extension Freeway or to favor a No-build option on the aforementioned freeway. Also according to the resolution, the results of this referendum will be GRIC’s official position on the construction Loop 202 Extension on the Gila River Indian Reservation. The resolution was certified, signed and dated on Oct. 3, 2011 Page 7 "Kick-Off” to a great school year at Ira H. Hayes High School! Elementary School Elects New Student Council Members By Wendy Ong, Ed. D Ira H. Hayes High School Superintendent/Principal Walt Porter/GRIN Walt Porter/GRIN Top row left to right: Shelley Huston, Alicen Apkaw, Valencia Dixon, Melania Natani, Jaidyn Etsitty, Alan Pratt Middle row left to right: Leona Harrison, Shaelene Hoffman, Gabriella Boss, Alicia Ramon, Ethan June, Summer Justin, Jeriah Johns Front row left to right: Deserie Cross, Anna Ramirez, Dre’Anna Whapeta, Ernisto Enos, Raven Stevens, Nizhoni Williams By Walt Porter GRIN/Intern SACATON – The newly elected members of Sacaton Middle School Student Council were announced Sept. 19. An alternate from the third grade class, Ethan June, said he joined because he wanted to help people. He’s the second youngest of three brothers and one sister. June said that he likes the school because it's fun, he also likes to do his work. Fourth grade student council representative, Alicen Apkaw, said she is excited to be a part of the council. “It was cool because I always wanted to be on student council,” Apkaw said. Apkaw was told by her friends that being part of the council would be fun and they get to be more involved with the school. She also is eager to give a helping hand around the school. Running for the student council president is something that she looks forward to doing this year while in council. Student council advisor, Shelly Huston, said she’s gearing the students up for a fantastic year. Their responsibilities will include raising the flag in the morning and fundraising. At the end of the year, the student council will sponsor an event with the money raised. Last year they supplied snow cones during their field day. During the first week of school, Ira H. Hayes High School students and staff were treated with a visit by professional football player, Nick Lowery. Mr. Lowery played for the New England Patriots, the Kansas City Chiefs, and the New York Jets. As a placekicker, he was selected to the Pro Bowl three times and when he retired was ranked first in field goal percentage and also had the most field goals in NFL history. In 2009, Mr. Lowery was inducted into the Kansas City Chiefs’ Hall of Fame. As part of the 1st week of orientation at Ira Hayes High School, Mr. Lowery spoke to the students about the importance of setting goals and staying focused. He gave the example of being in a stadium of 80,000 football fans and having to really be focused and determined to kick the football over the goal post. He encouraged the students to be the same way with school… ...”focused and determined with nothing distracting you.” “Expect to do well, bring in and attract healthy energy to yourself”, Lowery told the students. “Surround yourself with people that have your best interest in mind”. At the end of his presentation, Lowery spoke to individual students and autographed personal poster for them. It was a wonderful morning of motivation and inspiration by Nick Lowery! October 2011 Page 8 EDUCATION Blackwater Community School gets a visitor from Washington D.C. Walt Porter/GRIN First grade students from Ms. Erika's class receive high-fives from Congressman Paul Gosar after he read to them a book about a House mouse and Senate mouse. By Walt Porter GRIN/Intern BLACKWATER – On Sept. 28 Arizona Congressman, Paul Gosar, visited Blackwater Community School for a ‘meet and greet’ the students. He encouraged them to have an open mind and imagination. The invitation was offered for Congressman Gosar to hear the students recite the Declaration of Independence. After the assembly, the congressman shook the hands of every student in Blackwater Community School. He asked their name, what they want to become, and reminded them to smile and keep an open imagination. Gosar made two classroom presentations. The first was to Ms. Erika Villerius’ 1st grade class to read “House Mouse and Senate Mouse.” The children asked questions like, “Where is George Washington?” The second was to Ms. Layla Turner’s 5th grade class where they had an open discussion about civics. One student asked, “When will the Gila River get the water back?” It was evident to the congressman that they were learning about critical issues. In 1939, the school was constructed for approximately 100 children. Now, enrollment has quadrupled over the last four years. Because of the growing population in Blackwater, adding new modulars to the school only makes sense. Jacklyn Power, Blackwater School Prin- cipal and Superintendent, Henry Pino, the School Board President and Audra Antone, the School Board VP know the hardships they face when asking Congress to fund new facilities. Due to the summer temps the school has pushed for years to get a new gym. They were approved four years ago, however they have been waiting on the funding to come through. “Our school doesn’t look bad when walking around because we keep it looking nice and painted, but it’s falling apart in the infrastructure and we hope that he will remember our school,” Power said. One imminent problem is half of the students are displaced which means instruction takes place in separate modulars. The administration would like to see that change because it’s not an ideal learning environment. Next month the school is set to add two more modulars. Currently, the students have five different lunch schedules, and the BIE is adding a modular-like kitchen sometime soon. The school has concerns as to how long this will hold up in the long run. “The school is in dire need of permanent construction, because it’s undersized and less than half has permanent construction,” Power said. According to Congressman Gosar’s government website, www.gosar.house.gov, he serves on the House Natural Resources Committee which considers legislation about American energy production, mineral lands and mining, fisheries and wildlife, public lands, oceans, Native Americans, irrigation and reclamation. Within the Resources Committee, he serves on the Subcommittee on Indian and Alaska Native Affairs which oversees all matters regarding Native Americans, including the 565 federally recognized tribes and Alaska Native Corporations. Gosar is on the committee that will look at educational facilities and issues for funding education for school. This is a growing problem because so many BIE schools are in poor condition or are under funded. “We’re one of the highest performing bureau schools in the United States, academically,” Power said. When the school gives testimony in Washington D.C. to ask for future funding, they hope that this “great connection” will help the community school. Principal Power said, “I hope that the students will remember that they met a congressman and that they have a voice. They are really going to have a voice in what’s going to happen to Native Americans in the future… they are the future.” Congressman said to a staff member that he got chills after hearing the students recite the Declaration of Independence in O’odham. Make a difference. Volunteer. Become a Court Appointed Special Advocate. For more information contact the CASA Coordinator at (520) 562-9860 Vah-Ki students learn how the Civil War impacted the Community By Walt Porter, GRIN/Intern CASA BLANCA – Students from Skyline District 5 witnessed a part of their history during a Civil War Re-enactment. Social studies teacher, John Rodgers, was able to get experts on Civil War history, the Sons of Confederate Veterans, to provide a common soldier roll-play for the school. Since the 5th and 7th graders are studying the Civil War, Mr. Rodgers thought it would be important for them to understand the significance the Akimel O’odham had during that period. “There’s a lot of history in District 5,” said Rodgers. Rodgers said that the Civil War actually came to Casa Blanca in 1862. Rodgers explained that at one time, there was a flour mill here owned by a man named Ammi White, who lived among the Community. The Americans called it Whites Mill, which was back when the river was flowing. The community here was considered the bread- basket of Arizona. Mr. White had stored flour and other supplies here in the Community. The union soldiers were coming here to California from Mexico. The Confederates came up here March 1862. When they found the mill they destroyed it. The captain didn’t want to throw the flour away so he gave it to the Community. The Confederates then went on toward Yuma but didn’t quite make it and ended up traveling back through the Community. In April 1862, a battle took place at Picacho Peak. That was the farthest west the Civil War battle had been faught and the only battle fought in Arizona. Basically, that was Community property then, Rodgers said. “There is a connection .The idea here was to teach the student that their history includes the Civil War. The Civil War was here,” Rodgers said. Rodgers would like to collaborate with the state historical society regarding the Japanese Internment camps and teach students more about them since they were located here in the Community. Walt Porter/GRIN The Sons of Confederate Veterans gave students at Skyline District 5 examples of daily life as Civil War soldiers and historical significance of the Akimel O’odham during that time. October 2011 Page 9 SPORTS/CULTURAL Wellness Center kicks off running series By Walt Porter GRIN/Intern SACATON - The Wellness Center is kicking off their fun run series with on Oct. 27 for the 5 K and 1 mile scary walk on the Trail of Doom which should be another reason to run. Community Outreach Specialist, Jacqueline Allison, said they are going into their 12th year and hope to continue to get Community members out and progressively reach their wellness goal. This year they are looking for new props, ideas and volunteers for the event. It’s all in good fun and an event for the family according to David Yesk, Tribal Recreation from the Wellness Center. “At one time we had about 1200 people show up, get at least 900, our numbers are still up for the Trail of Doom,” said Allison, in reference to the turnout of the Trail of Doom two years ago. In the past we have done this event and it has been successful because of support from Health Resources and help from recreation, the event will also host different vendors and activities for everyone. Allison said that the Diabetes Prevention Program funds are used for bib numbers, tee shirts, award items and metals. “It’s really exciting this year and we’re hoping for more participation because it is our signature event and the kids have a good time,” Yesk said. The main goal is to promote physical activity to the community, especially with an event like this, encouraging “Step out. Stop diabetes.” Last year the event had more than 25 different ghouls on the trail, which mainly are volunteers from the youth council, staff of Genesis Program and the Community. The main focus according to Yesk was to get people to participate in the run series. This is just the first one, then the Turkey Trot, and the Jingle Run and others that extending to the end of July. "We’ve started up with competitive 5 K run for those who like to compete in running. There are two age groups 12 and under and 13-60," Yesk said. Responses from the Community admonish the Trail of Doom, because it is very helpful. "It has even reduced medication use and helping members bring the weight down to reduce diabetes, it would lower the risk," said Yesk. Allison added, “The goal is getting them out there to do what they can and then later on helping them to reach their goal of a one mile or two mile, then later a 5K.” This is like their stepping stone to getting conditioned and prepared for the P.F Chang’s Rock and Roll Marathon and half marathon. There are a few people from the Community and employees that have participated in their first marathon after this and continued on. The Gila River Running Club is into their 8th year according to Allison. Getting the Community motivated to continue running and include new people and kids to join. At the time there were programs that sponsored different runs for the club, but since then there have not been many sponsors to fund them to do that. Now, they have to fund themselves and have fundraisers to go to different marathons. I’m always glad to see so many participants from the Community come out and join us. We try to have some of the other entities set up booths with information on health. Music is always great, it keeps the people moving and they hope to get Russell Blackwater again this year to DJ. Allison also said, the Youth Council has been a big help the sideline for the ghouls. Allison is trying to get more runners and walkers together to sign up for ‘The Run Against Diabetes’ coming up in Salt River during Native American Recognition Days. “Our goal here is to bring home what they have as the most Community or district participants; so far we brought back eight awards and hope to do that again this year,” said Allison. All the fun run series are free to the community because of the Diabetes Prevention Program, same with the run in Salt River. Sacaton is not the only event that is having something similar to this; Komatke also holds their annual Deadman’s Walk on Oct. 28 at their service center. For more information visit the Wellness Center for the club. The cultural significance of South Mountain (Muhadagi) By Randy Stone South Mountain is located at the northwestern side of the Gila River Indian Community, in District 6, Komatke, Pima Village. Muhadagi. I am told it has historical significance to the Pima because it is one of the many mountains located within the exterior boundaries of the Community and regarded as one of the guardians of our Community. As well as being a part of our Pima legends, these legends that have been told to me by my family, elders and others from district-four during my childhood and into my teenage years. It was told that Muhadagi contains the original maze design, which has become significant and scared to the Southwestern native tribes. It is told that Elder Brother, Se-eh-ha, lived at Muhadag. According to legend, Se-eh-ha was considered a protector and councilor to the people (Pima). At one point Se-eh-ha had returned home to Muhadagi, where he decided to build a new home that would include winding passages. Se-eh-ha’s decision for the winding passages was to confuse his enemy if they came to destroy him. When he finished his new home or lodge, he had constructed it like a labyrinth with the passages leading to a place he considered safe, at the center of the maze. According to other legends told to me, Muhadagi was also at one time the home of the Eagle Man that raided our villages and took our livestock to the top of the mountain where he used them for food and left whatever remained at the top. It was said that the fat from the carcasses melted and ran down the mountainside. When ever it was a hot and sunny day, and you would look at Muhadagi. And the sides of the mountain would look shiny or wet. These are only two of the legends that I’ve been told, but there are probably others that relate to our people and our land. The thing to remember is that native storytellers may have different versions of our legends that relate to Muhadagi, South Mountain. That all legends will be different, but are all relative, but by this I believe it is what makes each story interesting to the listener. To me, it does, whenever I listen to other storytellers and their version. Legends are told during the winter time according to Hu Hu Kam and culture. The reference to the legends above is told because of cultural significance to South Mountain of the Akimel O’otham. October 2011 Page 10 Gila River Indian News Native American Bar Association of Arizona hands out awards By Roberto A. Jackson Community Newsperson Roberto A. Jackson/GRIN Former GRIC counsel Steve Heeley presented with NABAAZ's Member of the Year Award at the Seven Generations Awards Dinner at Talking Stick Resort on Sept. 24, 2011. SRPMIC- The Native American Bar Association of Arizona (NABA-AZ) held their annual Seven Generations Awards Dinner at Salt River Pima-Maricopa Indian Community’s Talking Stick Resort on Sept. 24, 2011. It was an evening to recognize three honorees for exemplary service and to raise funds for Native American law students in the state of Arizona through a silent auction. NABA-AZ is a non-profit organization that was formed in 2007 by a small group of local Native American attorneys seeking to increase opportunities for Native American lawyers, judges and students, and to promote legal issues pertinent to Native American communities. Awards were given to DNA People’s Legal Services (DNA is an acronym for the Navajo phrase Dinébe’iiná Náhiiłna be Agha’diit’ahii which means “attorneys who work for the economic revitalization of The People”), William Quinn and Steve Heeley, former GRIC Assistant General Counsel. Linda Arnold, President of NABA-AZ, was on hand to highlight some of NABA-AZ’s activities over the past year. She noted that the organization awarded multiple scholarships, held food and toy drives, raised over $8,000 at an annual golf fundraiser among other accomplishments. She also thanked all of the sponsors which included the Wild Horse Pass Development Authority. SRPMIC President, Diane Enos, welcomed NABA-AZ by saying, “We’re honored as a tribe to have you here.” Enos, the first SRPMIC member to become a lawyer, recalled her many long hours of study and years of practice. Enos was likewise pleased to see the audience dashed with youthful faces. “I am so honored because a lot of you are young,” she said. Other speakers included individuals from the State Bar of Arizona: John Phelps, CEO/Executive Director and Joe Kanefield, President of the State Bar of Arizona. Phelps said that if people wanted a clear definition of professionalism in the practice of law, “all they have to do is look at the Native American Bar Association for examples of professional leaders.” Rod Lewis, former GRIC General Counsel, introduced Steve Heeley who received the NABA-AZ Member of the Year Award. Heeley was gracious toward his colleagues for the honor and for their charity. “Each and everyone here tonight—I’d like to thank you for your generosity,” Heeley said. Several members of GRIC Law Office were on hand and GRIC General Counsel Linus Everling commented on Heeley’s tireless work ethic. “It’s just unbelievable how much stuff he does,” said Everling. Everling also described the relationship among NABA-AZ members. “This is a very tight knit group of people. You wouldn’t believe how many people here have known each other for 20, 30 years,” Everling said. The Community Service Award, which is to honor individuals or groups that make an impact in Native communities, was bestowed to DNA People’s Legal Services and accepted by the law firm’s president, Karl Gillson. DNA People’s Legal Services provide direct legal assistance to nearly 4,000 people annually. Gillson said that DNA secured $4.5 million for their clients last year. Their administrative offices are located in Window Rock, Ariz. The Lifetime Achievement Award was given to William Quinn, Jr. for his substantial contribution in the area of Indian Law in Arizona thoughout the course of several years. Quinn specialized in the practice of Indian Law and formerly worked at SRPMIC. “It marks for me one of the most meaningful and treasured awards I’ve ever received,” said Quinn of his honor. Quinn stated that the turning points and transitions in his career were affected by, “a touch of the creator’s hand.” Sonia Martinez, NABA-AZ Board Secretary and Planning Committee Chairperson, concluded the evening by thanking her committee, sponsors and volunteers. Indian land claim cases disscussed at Heard Museum By Roberto A. Jackson Community Newsperson Roberto A. Jackson/GRIN Attorney Arlinda Locklear was invited to the Heard Museum and disscussed fundemental land claim issues PHOENIX - Noted Indian land rights attorney, Arlinda Locklear delivered a lecture at the Heard Museum’s Steele Auditorium on Thurs. Oct. 6, 2011. The lecture entitled, “Tribal Land Claims: A Generation of Federal Indian Law on the Edge,” was framed around the land claims cases brought against the state of New York by the Oneida Indian Nation. Locklear (Lumbee) used the Oneida land claims cases as a mechanism to explain the overall land issues in which tribes assert the right to continued possessions of their lands. Locklear, who in 1985, represented the Oneida Tribe of Indians of Wisconsin in Oneida Indian Nation v. County of Oneida, said that the Oneida land claims are of a fundamental importance to Native Americans as the cases spawned several other Indian land claims. Locklear recalled over 200 years of history when the Oneida Indian Nation, as a member of a six nation confederacy, originally possessed six million acres of land in the middle of the state of New York. Locklear detailed the events that led up to the aggressive land acquisition policy of the state of New York and the multifaceted legal battles that date from the 1970s to the present day. Locklear, the first Native American female attorney to testify before the U.S. Supreme Court, appeared at the Heard Museum as a guest of, “The Simon Ortiz and Labriola Center Lecture on Indigenous Land, Culture, and Community.” These are a series of lectures and presentations which address a wide range of topics through the prism of contemporary indigenous perspectives. When asked about her view on the gaming plans by the Tohono O’odham Nation for Glendale, Locklear said that she wouldn’t pass judgment and that it is a difficult question. “It’s one of those issues where there are equities on both sides,” Locklear said. “There is a very carefully constructed system in the [gaming] compacts here in Arizona that gives those other [opposing] tribes concerns as to whether that whole system will unravel as a result of this additional project in the event it is developed,” she said. Locklear covered other topics during a Q-and-A session including the Fort McDowell water settlement, the federal court system as it relates to being an Indian Law practitioner and also the Cobell v. Salazar settlement. The next event for, “The Simon Ortiz and Labriola Center Lecture on Indigenous Land, Culture, and Community,” will be on March 15, 2012 and feature sculptor Bob Haozous. Arizona Indian Living Treasure Award recipients announced Submitted by Daryl Melvin AILTA Board PHOENIX, AZ - The Arizona Indian Living Treasures Award (AILTA) committee announces four recipients of the 2011 Living Treasures Award. The 2011 AILTA will be presented to Joseph Joaquin, Tohono O’odham - language/ cultural preservation; Chester Kahn, Navajo - painter; Thomas Nahsonhoya, Hopi - traditional weaver; and Herb Stevens, San Carlos Apache - fine arts buckskin dress and moccasin making. Awardees will be honored with a ceremony on Saturday, October 15, 2011, at 1:00 p.m. in the Steele Auditorium at the Heard Museum in Phoenix. Herb Stevens, director at San Carlos Apache Cultural Center expressed his surprise upon learning of being a recipient, “It’s such an honor to be recognized for doing something I love to do. I try to do what I can to teach the traditional Apache ways of working with buckskin, making dresses and moccasins needed for ceremonies; it keeps the traditional Apache culture alive within the Apache Tribal communities.” Howard Sice, board president and founding board member states, "The contributions of our native elders and their commitment to service in retaining traditional art and culture for all Indian people, is an important calling." Each year, the AILTA's Board honors individuals who demonstrate a lifetime of achievement in the area of traditional arts and cultural preservation. AILTA recognizes individuals who serve their community by sharing their arts and traditions, and passing them on to the next generation. The Living Treasure Award reinforces the mission of AILTA, which is to encourage the preservation of cul- tural traditions and artistic ideals, while providing education and awareness to the public about American Indian culture. During the ceremony, recipients are honored and presented with an embroidered Pendleton blanket and plaque. About the Arizona Indian Living Treasure Award Arizona Indian Living Treasure Award, Inc was formed in 1988 and recognized Hopi basket maker, Sarah Gashwytewa, the first living treasure recipient. To date AILTA has recognized 100 Arizona Native American living treasures. Their Web site is: http://www.ailta.ethos7.com/ For more information, contact Daryl Melvin, P.E., AILTA Board member at [email protected] or at 928380-1807. October 2011 Page 11 Gila River Indian News Guk Tash Tribal Members: T hank you for the opportunity to move forward in the upcoming General Election for Governor. You have empowered me to represent the spirit of Gila River everywhere I go and in everything I do. I humbly appreciate your trust in me. As Lieutenant Governor I have held the office sacred and have not wavered my commitment to you, the people, in any way. My Boys, my wife Nadine and I live in the village of Gu u Ki next to the GRIC’s Residential Youth Home. Our other two boys are doing well with their families. I am a religious family man that supports traditional family values. In 2011, I’ve celebrated over 28 years sobriety. My parents are Lorraine Johnson, daughter of the late Frank Johnson and Isabel Davis Johnson. My father is the late Herman Manuel son of the late Warren Manuel and Ellen Manuel of Sacaton. Tribal Government has left the peo- Experience: •Lieutenant Governor • D3 Councilman •Judge Pro Tempore •Community Manager Operations • TERO Director (TERO Southwest Region Chairman & TERO National Chairman) •Private Tribal Court Advocate •Visiting Judge Indian Country. •Arizona Indian Gaming Association – Chair ple behind. We must work together to bridge that gap and to communicate and address Community issues and to continue to provide services to the Community. By improving communications, the tribal government will become accountable and transparent in everything it does. To bring the wisdom of our elders, the purity of our young children, and holistic minds of our Community members, we will all move forward in a positive manner. I believe this will promote trust of the people in their elected officials. There is much to do in our Community and for our Community. All issues are priority. Youth and Elders, Jobs, Housing, Education, Health, Transportation, Economic Development, Land, Water, Air, Culture and Sovereignty must be protected at all cost. I have been preparing myself for this very opportunity before me. My consistency and dedication to the office of Lieutenant Governor has enriched my qualifications to take on this important position of GRIC Governor. Qualifications Present & Former: •Inter-Tribal Council of Arizona – Secretary/Treasurer •National Indian Gaming Association Board Member •Phoenix-Mesa Gateway Airport – Vice Chair •GRIC Investment Committee Member •GRIC Litigation Team Member •GRIC Employee Benefit Trust Member I’ve listened to the past Governors and what they have shared with me during my venture. Mary Thomas once told me during an election, “Watch this so you will know how to deliver a campaign message in tried times”. I recall her elegant means of delivery that day. Governor Donald Antone told me, “You have to be Lt. Governor before you can take the Governorship”. Governor Thomas White taught me to listen to both sides of a story before making a decision and would tell me, “I’m going to show you how it is done”. Governor Norris taught me to always acknowledge the Almighty God in seeking guidance. I also thank Governor Rhodes and wish him well. I appreciate these Governors for their guidance as I have always observed their leadership. So at this juncture I have acquired the following qualifications, experience and education to prepare for this position. I appreciate your vote on November 8th, 2011. •Transportation Technical Team – Chair •WHPDA BOD •GRTI BOD •GRICUA BOD •GRIC Law Enforcement Commission •Four Rivers Indian Legal Services BOD •Education: Menaul Presbyterian High School 1974 , Bachelor of Science Business Management (BSBM)1998 , Master’s Business Administration (MBA) 2002. Joseph Manuel for Governor Paid by “Voices of the River” Campaign October 2011 Gila River Indian News Page 12 Political Advertisment Thank you all for your encouraging words--in-person and on-line—and for sharing your concerns and hopes for our Community. Thank you too, for your help in getting my campaign message out. Let us begin the second half of this awesome journey to inspire Change and Hope for our People. Voting Greg Mendoza for Governor will bring to our People: Awareness • To provide consistent updates to Tribal Departments, Employees, Districts, the Community Council, the Elders, the Youth and Urban Members living off the Community. • Provide monthly updates via Gila River News, Tribal Website and Social Media. Use technology to communicate status of our Community. • Using forums to develop a community vision for community services. Progress • Working to empower community members by addressing their rights and responsibilities as community members. • Analyzing and collaborating with employees to improve the delivery of services by reviewing policies and implementing these policies, my administration will better ensure effective and efficient delivery of services to our people. • Encourage community members to help each other Accountability • Reaching out to community members to understand their concerns and partner for solutions. • Providing greater transparency and hold management (i.e., the community manager, the division managers, department directors) accountable for services that are planned and budgeted to meet the Community’s needs. • Assuring that tribal funds being appropriated are being spent accordingly and with due diligence. I welcome and encourage you to submit your ideas to improve services for our elders, families and youth via: Facebook: www.facebook.com/Greg.Mendoza2011 Email: [email protected] Phone: 480.262.6400. Personal contact is always welcome. I look forward to sharing my message of Change and Hope for our People. The people have spoken and I humbly accept your continued support as we move forward to the General Election on November 8. Let Your Voice Be Heard and Vote November 8, 2011 October 2011 Page 13 Gila River Indian News Political Advertisment HALLOWEEN CANDY BUY BACK November 1st from 4:30-6:30pm Impressions Dental 442 W. Kortsen Rd. #104 Casa Grande, AZ (NW corner of Kortsen & Pinal Ave.) • Bring in your unopened candy on November 1st • Receive $1 per pound of candy! • All candy donated to U.S. Troops through Operation Gratitude DR. SPENCER D. WEED DDS FAMILY & COSMETIC DENTISTRY 520.374.2400 442 W. Kortsen Rd., Suite 104 • Casa Grande, AZ 85122 (NW corner of Kortsen & Pinal Ave.) www.ImpressDentalCG.com ★ October 2011 Page 14 Gila River Indian News Political Advertisment Tina Notah-Enas for Lieutenant Governor Together we can make a difference, together we can take action to ensure results Experience Counts And Juanita Manuel Lowe of District Four. Education: Bachelor of Science Degree in Business Management and a Master of Arts Degree in Organizational Management. Professional Delete text and Certificates in Human Resources and Hospital/ insert image here. Patient Administration. I am knowledgeable about the tribal Experienced: Over 20 years of experience in departmental administration and operations. My name is Tina Notah-Enas, I am from the villages of Santan and Stotonic. I reside Community Volunteerism: I served (10) years ernment. I am also well versed in on the Mul-Chu-Tha Fair Committee and vol- the departmental structure of the unteered as a Basketball Coach for Special in North Blackwater with my family Olympics. Augustine and Krystal Enas. My parents history and establishment of our gov- community. I have worked for a number of Tribal Administrations were the late Lloyd Notah Sr. and Louise and Tribal Councils. Thelma Osife of District Four and my maWWW.facebook.com/GoTina2012 ternal grandparents were the late Harvier Osife What do we do about it What are the Issues/ needs ♦ ♦ Human Resources: Enforce Tribal Prefer- Steady increase in tribal members being hired. Low turn over rate or commu- Education: There is a need for new schools ship programs. nity members getting RIF. ♦ Revisit Capital Projects, plan and deter- ♦ Children will go to school in a quality for our adult population. mine funding for new schools to be consid- building thus given them a positive envi- Housing: The need to keep moving on the ered. Look at bringing back on the job ronment to learn. Vocational opportu- construction of new homes. Transitional training and promote a vocational training nities for the older adult population will Housing is needed to house our homeless school. allow job opportunities. ♦ Continue funding for Housing. Revisit ♦ Families will benefit from new homes, Property and Supply: Enforce tribal pref- Capital Projects for a Transitional Home sub-standard housing is addressed. We erence for Vendors in efforts to promote Facility. find placement for our homeless. our community members that are entrepre- ♦ ♦ Promote the Career Pathways and Mentor- population. ♦ Exercise our right to Tribal Sovereignty . ence and employ and retain our own. for our children. Also vocational programs ♦ ♦ What will be the end result ♦ Exercise our right to Tribal Sovereignty. neurs. Enforce the tribal preference business reso- Veterans: There is a need for establish- lution. ment of a Veterans Affairs Office. ♦ ♦ nesses will prosper and be successful. ♦ Revisit Capital Projects, plan and funding. Community members that have busi- Veterans needs will be met in terms of benefits, medical and housing needs. Not one person can do this alone it will take the help and support of everyone, you as the members, the leadership and Council. October 2011 Page 15 Gila River Indian News Doomtown at Rawhide is Delightfully Eerie By Mihio Manus Managing Editor Anyone who thinks that zombies, ghouls and ghosts weren’t a part of the old west needs to think again. As a part of Rawhide’s annual Halloween festivities, Doomtown has returned to claim the Wild West in the name of terror, fright and ghoulish splendor. Walking the main drag of the rustic town, you will instantly notice that Rawhide has become plagued by zombies and goblins. Skeletal reapers riding horseback have replaced town marshals. Depending on your luck, whether it's good or bad, you might catch a glimpse of the Headless Horseman as he patrols the streets searching for victims. But that’s not all there is to Doomtown’s bag of goodies. Each of the town’s theatre stages have fallen under the spells of Halloween and are certain to keep the audience spellbound with performances derived from six feet under. The Legend of the Zombie Hunter follows Jack Roberts and his bumbling trainee Eustice McKenzie as they try to nab a pesky zombie with gunfights, fist fights, and high falls. The show is brought to you by the Arizona Roughriders. The chillingly delightful Dr. Boris Von Schlock, and his inept helper Stosh attempt to reanimate the ghoulish creatures in Dr. Boris Von Schlock's Traveling Transylvania Taxidermy Tonsorial and Re-animation Emporium. Digger Payne has reigned supreme over Doomtown for well over a decade, devastating everything and everyone that lay in his path. Not even the gates of hell have been able to contain his dark power. So what happens when there is no one left worthy to do battle with? Find out when you attend The Digger Payne Saga: "The Return of the Prodigal". Each of these attractions builds horrific momentum, leading visitors toward Doomtown’s main attraction, The Nest. Here within the pages of this newspaper, we won’t divulge too much about what happens inside this particular haunted house. But we can say that you will be startled and frightened. The full experience takes approximately 30 minutes but there are exits located within The Nest where visitors can catch an early escape if the horror becomes overwhelming. However, if you’ve made it this far, it only makes sense to go the distance. Rawhide will feature Doomtown through the end of October and is open to the public from Wed through Sun throughout the end of the month. Doomtown is open nightly on these particular days from 5pm to 11pm. A Doomtown pass costs $15 and will admit you to any attraction. A single attraction costs $5. For more information check: www.rawhide.com/doomtown.html Mihio Manus/GRIN In the spirit of the old west, The Arizona Roughriders unearth their story of zombie hunting complete with gun fights and showdowns. Mihio Manus/GRIN GRIN secretary, Gina Goodman barely escaped The Nest fully intact. With ghoulish characters like these, many visitors leave both shaken and stirred. October 2011 Gila River Indian News Page 16 September 7, 2011 Action Sheets ACTION SHEET Community Council; PO Box 2138; Sacaton, Arizona 85147; Phone (520) 5629720; Fax (520) 562-9729 CALL TO ORDER The First Regular Monthly Meeting of the Community Council held Wednesday September 7, 2011, in the Community Council Chambers at the Governance Center in Sacaton, Arizona was called to order by presiding Chairman Governor William R. Rhodes at 9:00 a.m. INVOCATION Councilwoman Janice F. Stewart ROLL CALL Sign-In Sheet Circulated Executive Officers Present: Governor William R. Rhodes Lt. Governor Joseph Manuel (9:06) Council Members Present: D1-Cynthia Antone, Arzie Hogg; D2-Jewel Whitman; D3-, Myron G. Schurz, Dale G. Enos; D4- Jennifer Allison (9:08), Gregory Mendoza, Christopher Mendoza; D5-Annette Stewart, Janice F. Stewart, Brenda Roberson (11:33); D6-Anthony Villareal, Sr., Albert Pablo, Terrance B. Evans; D7Martha Miller Council Members Absent: D4 - Barney Enos, Jr ; D5 - Brian Davis, Sr. APPROVAL OF AGENDA APPROVED AS AMENDED REPORTS 1. Sacaton Middle School Annual Report Presenter: Philip Bonds TABLED 2. Skyline District 5 School Status Report Presenters: Rudy Dulfo, Molly Ryan, & Carl Hill TABLED 3. Casa Blanca Community School Report Presenters: Education Standing Committee REPORT HEARD 4. Casa Blanca Community School Amended Charter Presenters: Thomas Murphy & Rebecca Hall REPORT HEARD 5. American Legion Haskell Osife Antone Post No. 51 Report Presenter: David Anderson REPORT HEARD 6. Health Resources Department – FY1011 Semi- Annual Report Presenter: Laverne Dallas TABLED 7. Enrollment/Census 2011 Annual Report Presenter: Jane Johnson-Woody REPORT HEARD MOTION MADE AND SECOND FOR 10-MINUTE BREAK RECONVENED AT 10:43AM 8. Gang Ordinance Draft Revision Presenter: Rebecca Hall REPORT HEARD 9. Gila River Gaming Commission Report – July 2011 (Executive Session) Presenters: Courtney Moyah & Scott Sanderson MOTION MADE AND SECOND TO ENTER EXECUTIVE SESSION REPORT HEARD IN EXECUTIVE SESSION MOTION MADE AND SECOND TO EXIT EXECUTIVE SESSION RESOLUTIONS 1. A Resolution Approving Amendment No. 9 To The Gila River Indian Community’s “Employee Policies And Procedures Reference Guide ”Adopted By Resolution GR-298-08, And Amending Section V Of The Employee Reference Guide To Add A Section Entitled, “Registered Sex Offenders” (G&MSC forwards to Council with recommendation for approval; LSC concurs) Presenters: Rebecca Hall & Sydney McKinney APPROVED 2. A Resolution Approving The Community Council Secretary’s Office Public Records Request Policy (G&MSC forwards to Council with recommendation for approval; EDSC & LSC concur) Presenter: Ron Rosier APPROVED 3. A Resolution Approving The Gila River Indian Community’s 2011-2012 Tribal Membership In The National Congress Of American Indians And Designated Delegates (G&MSC forwards to Council with recommendation for approval) Presenter: Linda Andrews APPROVED 4. A Resolution Approving And Authorizing Amendment #1 To The October 1, 2010 Agreement Between The Gila River Indian Community And Peter Mock Groundwater Consulting, Inc. For Fiscal Year 2011 (G&MSC forwards to Council with recommendation for approval; NRSC concurs) Presenter: Thomas Murphy APPROVED 5. A Resolution Approving The Golf Facility Management Agreement Between The Gila River Indian Community And Troon Golf, LLC To Manage And Operate The Whirlwind Golf Club In The Wild Horse Pass Development Area (EDSC motioned to forward to Council for approval; contingent upon G&M’s approval) Presenters: Ron Rosier, Dale Gutenson, & Steve Heeley TABLED AT APPROVAL OF AGENDA 6. A Resolution Consenting To Four (4) Nontransferable Fifty Year Homesite Leases On Allotment 2753 located On Allotted Trust Land In District Seven Of The Gila River Indian Reservation (NRSC forwards to Council with recommendation for approval) Presenter: Javier Ramos APPROVED 7. A Resolution Consenting To A Nontransferable Fifty Year Homesite Lease On Allotment 2540-A located On Allotted Trust Land In District Five Of The Gila River Indian Reservation (NRSC forwards to Council with recommendation for approval) Presenter :Javier Ramos APPROVED 8. A Resolution By The Gila River Indian Community Approving And Consenting To A Grant of Right Of Way Easement Within A Parcel Of Allotted Land Partially Owned By The Gila River Indian Community, To The Department Of The Interior, Bureau Of Indian Affairs For The Purpose Of Constructing, Operating, Managing And Maintaining A Road Way And Utilities Corridor, Located In District One Of The Gila River Indian Reservation And Shown In Drawing Number 30109-0008AEA-03 (NRSC forwards to Council with recommendation for approval) Presenters: Calvin Touchin & Antonelli Anton TABLED AT APPROVAL OF AGENDA 9. A Resolution Approving An Agreement Between The Gila River Indian Community And The New Magma Irrigation And Drainage District Providing For The Delivery Of In-lieu Water For Water Storage At A Groundwater Savings Facility (NRSC forwards to Council with recommendation for approval) Presenter: Thomas Murphy TABLED AT APPROVAL OF AGENDA 10. A Resolution Granting And Ingress/ Egress And A Utility Corridor Right Of Way To The Gila River Indian Community Department Of Transportation, Gila River Indian Community Utility Authority, San Carlos Irrigation Project, Gila River Indian Community Department Of Public Works, And Gila River Telecommunications, Inc. For The Purpose(s) Of A Roadway And Other Utility Services, Located On Community Trust Land In District Five Of The Gila River Indian Reservation And Designated As Drawing No. 30511-0228-EA (NRSC forwards to Council with recommendation for approval, and with correction) Presenter: Pamela Pasqual APPROVED 11. A Resolution Approving The Petition For The Enrollment Of Eric Kevin Track Into The Gila River Indian Community (LSC forwards to Council with recommendation for approval) Presenter: Gwen Thomas APPROVED 12. A Resolution Approving The Petition For The Enrollment Of Michael Christian Track Into The Gila River Indian Community (LSC forwards to Council with recommendation for approval) Presenter: Gwen Thomas APPROVED 13. A Resolution Approving The Petition For The Enrollment Of Mattika Jay Yazzie Into The Gila River Indian Community (LSC forwards to Council with recommendation for approval) Presenter: Gwen Thomas APPROVED 14. A Resolution Approving The Petition For The Enrollment Of Elliott Mark Pablo Into The Gila River Indian Community (LSC forwards to Council with recommendation for approval) Presenter: Gwen Thomas APPROVED 15. A Resolution Approving The Petition For The Enrollment Of James Francis Burrell, Jr. Into The Gila River Indian Community (LSC forwards to Council with recommendation for approval) Presenter: Gwen Thomas APPROVED 16. A Resolution Approving The Petition For The Enrollment Of Hannah Theresa Vavages Into The Gila River Indian Community (LSC forwards to Council with recommendation for approval) Presenter: Gwen Thomas APPROVED 17. A Resolution Approving The Petition For The Enrollment Of Delphina Mae Kenton Into The Gila River Indian Community (LSC forwards to Council with recommendation for approval) Presenter: Gwen Thomas APPROVED 18. A Resolution Approving The Petition For The Enrollment Of Owen Floyd Wilson Into The Gila River Indian Community (LSC forwards to Council with recommendation for approval) Presenter: Gwen Thomas APPROVED 19. A Resolution Approving The Petition For The Enrollment Of Brandon Dean Morgan Into The Gila River Indian Community (LSC forwards to Council with recommendation for approval) Presenter: Gwen Thomas TABLED AT APPROVAL OF AGENDA 20. A Resolution Approving The Tribal Elections Program’s Election Official’s Handbook As A Training Manual For Election Officials (LSC forwards to Council with recommendation for approval) Presenters: Nadine Shelde, Linda Andrews, & Javier Ramos APPROVED ORDINANCES 1. The Gila River Indian Community Council Hereby Rescinds The 2010 Code Of Conduct And Hereby Enacts the 2011 Code Of Conduct In Title I, Which Amends The 2009 Gila River Indian Community Code (G&MSC Forwards to Council with recommendation for approval contingent upon the other committee’s concurrence with recommended changes to include the noted amended changes made by this committee; to also request the Public Notice required by waived by LSC or the Community Council in regards to this Ordinance; EDSC & LSC concur) Presenter: Perry Riggs APPROVED 2. The Gila River Indian Community Council Hereby Enacts The Following As An Ordinance Authorizing And Enacting An Amendment to Title 8, Chapter 8, The Sex Offender Registration And Notification Ordinance Of The Gila River Indian Community Code (LSC forwards to Council with recommendation for approval) Presenters: Rebecca Hall & Michael Carter APPROVED UNFINISHED BUSINESS NEW BUSINESS *1. Gila Crossing Community Elementary School Written Plan SY2011/2012 (ESC forwards to Council with recommendation for approval) Presenter: Jagdish Sharma APPROVED *2. Gila Crossing Community Middle School Written Plan SY2011/2012 (ESC forwards to Council with recommendation for approval) Presenter: Jagdish Sharma APPROVED *3. Gila River Farms – Declare 1 Vacancy (EDSC motioned to forward to Council with deadline of 10/06/11 at noon) Presenters: Committee DECLARIED 4. Appointment of District One Planning & Zoning Commissioner - Wally Jones (G&MSC forwards to Council with recommendation for consideration of appointment) Presenter: Wilbert Jackson APPOINTED MOTION MADE AND SECOND FOR LUNCH TILL 1:30PM RECONVENED AT 1:35PM 5. Vechij Himdag MaschamaKud Alternative School Written Plan SY2011/2012 (ESC forwards to Council with recommendation for approval) Presenter: Lillian Kim Franklin APPROVED WITH ADDITION OF SALARY INFORMATION 6. Ira H. Hayes High School SY2011/2012 Written Plan (ESC forwards to Council with recommendation for approval) Presenter: Wendy Ong TABLED 7. Sacaton Middle School Written Plan SY2011/2012 (ESC forwards to Council with recommendation for approval) Presenter: Philip Bonds APPROVED 8. Sherman Indian High School Board Declaration of Vacancy – 1 Member (ESC forwards to Council with recommendation to declare the vacancy) Presenters: Committee DECLARIED 9. Career Pathways (ESC forwards to Council with recommendation to support) Presenters: Lana Chanda, Christopher Banham, & Stephanie Sauceda MOTION MADE AND SECOND TO SUPPORT GILA RIVER INDIAN COMMUNITY CAREER PATHWAYS PROJECT 10. Request for Concurrence for the Governor to Authorize & Release of Addressing information in Electronic Format to Our Mutual Aid Partners (NRSC forwards to Council with recommendation for approval) October 2011 Gila River Indian News Page 17 September 7, 2011 Action Sheets continued Presenter: Rod Tuttle APPROVED 11. Vee Quiva Casino Expansion and Lease Renewal (Executive Session) (EDSC forwards to Council with recommendation of approval) Presenter: Ron Rosier TABLED AT APPROVAL OF AGENDA Addendum to Agenda 12. NAHASDA and RHIP Program Presenter: Anthony Villareal, Sr. MOTION MADE AND SECOND FOR COMMUNITY COUNCIL TO SUPPORT GOVERNMENT & MANAGEMENT STANDIN COMMITTEE MOTIONS OF SEPTEMBER 1, 2011, REGARDING RHIP, NAHASDA, AND OTHER COMMUNTIY HOUSING PROGRAMS; AND DIRECT LAW OFFICE TO PREPARE A RESOLUTION CREATING A HOUSING TASKFORCE TO COMPRISE OF STANDING COMMITTEE CHAIRPERSONS AND VICE CHAIRPERSONS; RESPONSIBLE DEVELOPING PLANS AND IMPLEMENTING G&MSC MOTIONS 13. Retaliation/intimidation Presenters: Anthony Villareal, Sr. MOTION MADE AND SECOND THAT ACTS OF INTIMIDATION BY ELECTED AND APPOINTED OFFICALS SHALL NOT BE PERMITTED; SUCH ACTS IN OPPOSITION OF COMMUNITY’S ETHICS ORDINANCE AND WILL BE DELT WITH BY COUNCIL INCLUDING DISCIPLINE OR REMOVAL OR OTHER NCESSARY ACTION; ANY INSTANCES SHALL BE REPORTED TO THE LEGISLATIVE STANDING COMMITTEE FOR RECMMENDATION TO COMMUNITY COUNCIL MINUTES 1. April 20, 2011 (Regular) APPROVE AS CORRECTED ANNOUNCEMENTS >CONCERN REGARDING THE MINUTES EXPRESSED >REMINDER OF THE MUSTERING DAYS THIS WEEKEND >REMINDER OF THE CANDIDATE FORUM THIS WEEKEND IN DISTRICT ONE >REMINDER OF THE G2E DEADLINE ADJOURNMENT MEETING ADJOURNED AT 4:05pm * Denotes TABLED from previous meeting(s) ward to Council with recommendation for approval; G&MSC concurs) Presenters: Ron Rosier & Steve Heeley APPROVED 6. A Resolution Approving a Memorandum of Agreement between the Gila River Indian Community and Lonesome Valley Farms of Coolidge, Arizona, for the Installation of a Certain Irrigation Turnout at Lonesome Valley Farms’ Expense on SCIP Canal 4 along the Pima Lateral Canal West of the City of Coolidge, Arizona (NRSC forwards to Council with recommendation for approval; G&MSC concurs) Presenter: David DeJong APPROVED 7. A Resolution Approving an Intergovernmental Agreement between the Gila River Indian Community and the City of Coolidge, Arizona, to Authorize the Pima-Maricopa Irrigation Project to Construct a Replacement Bridge at Skousen Road with a Maximum Pima-Maricopa Irrigation Project Contribution of $100,000.00 (NRSC forwards to Council with recommendation for approval; G&MSC concurs) Presenter: David DeJong APPROVED 8. A Resolution Authorizing And Approving The U.S. Department Of Justice FY2011 Office Of Community Oriented Policing Services(COPS) Hiring Grant Application (LSC forwards to Council with recommendation for approval) Presenter: Amanda Swinehart TABLED AT APPROVAL OF AGENDA 9. A Resolution Authorizing And Approving The U.S. Department Of Justice Office Of Justice Programs’ (OJP) Edward Byrne Memorial Justice Assistance Grant (JAG) Program FY2011 Local Solicitation Application (LSC forwards to Council with recommendation for approval) Presenter: Amanda Swinehart TABLED AT APPROVAL OF AGENDA 10. A Resolution Authorizing And Approving An Interest-Free Short-Term Loan To The Ira H. Hayes Memorial Applied Learning Center, Inc., A Gila River Community Alternative School Of Education (G&MSC forwards to Council with recommendation for approval) Presenters: Robert Keller & Lorinda Roessel APPROVED 11. A Resolution Approving Modification No. 2 To The Gila River Indian Community Operating Budget For Fiscal Year 2011 (G&MSC forwards to Council with recommendation for approval) Presenter: Robert Keller APPROVED 12. A Resolution Authorizing And Approving The Termination Of A Deceased Beneficiary’s Per Capita Trust Account And Direct Distribution Of Trust Assets To Certain Survivors (G&MSC forwards to Council with recommendation for approval) Presenters: Robert Keller & Lorinda Roessel APPROVED 13. A Resolution Approving The Gila River Indian Community Internal Audit Department’s Annual Audit Plan For Fiscal Year 2012 (G&MSC forwards to Council with recommendation for approval) Presenters: Penni McCabe & Robert Keller APPROVED 14. A Resolution Approving And Authorizing Amendment #2 To The October 1, 2010 Agreement Between The Gila River Indian Community,And Akin, Gump, Strauss Hauer & Feld, LLP For Fiscal Year 2011 (G&MSC forwards to Council with recommendation for approval) Presenters: Linus Everling & Tom Murphy APPROVED 15. A Resolution Approving and Authorizing An Agreement Between The Gila River Indian Community And Gookin Hydrology, PLC For Fiscal Year 2012 (G&MSC forwards to Council with recommendation for approval) Presenters: Linus Everling & Tom Murphy APPROVED 16. A Resolution Approving and Authorizing An Agreement Between The Gila River Indian Community And Hardee Consulting For Fiscal Year 2012 (G&MSC forwards to Council with recommendation for approval) Presenters: Linus Everling & Tom Murphy APPROVED 17. A Resolution Approving and Authorizing An Agreement Between The Gila River Indian Community And Franzoy Consulting, Inc. For Fiscal Year 2012 (G&MSC forwards to Council with recommendation for approval) Presenters: Linus Everling & Tom Murphy APPROVED 18. A Resolution Approving and Authorizing An Agreement Between The Gila River Indian Community And Peter Mock Groundwater Consulting, Inc. For Fiscal Year 2012 (G&MSC forwards to Council with recommendation for approval) September 21, 2011 Action Sheets ACTION SHEET Community Council; PO Box 2138; Sacaton, Arizona 85147; Phone (520) 5629720; Fax (520) 562-9729 CALL TO ORDER The Second Regular Monthly Meeting of the Community Council held Wednesday September 21, 2011, in the Community Council Chambers at the Governance Center in Sacaton, Arizona was called to order by presiding Chairman Governor William R. Rhodes at 9:00 a.m. INVOCATION Councilwoman Annette J. Stewart ROLL CALL Sign-In Sheet Circulated Executive Officers Present: Governor William R. Rhodes Executive Officers Absent: Lt. Governor Joseph Manuel Council Members Present: D1-Cynthia Antone, Arzie Hogg; D2-Jewel Whitman; D3-Dale G. Enos; D4-Gregory Mendoza, Christopher Mendoza Jr; D5Annette Stewart, Janice F. Stewart (9:04), Brenda Roberson, Brian Davis, Sr.; D6Anthony Villareal, Sr., Albert Pablo, Terrance B. Evans (9:04); D7-Martha Miller Council Members Absent: D3-Myron G. Schurz; D4- Jennifer Allison, Barney Enos, Jr. APPROVAL OF AGENDA APPROVED AS AMENDED PRESENTATION 1. GRTI Check Presentation Presenter: Malcom Eschief Mr. Malcom Eschief presented a check in the amount of $312,000 to Councilwoman Brenda Robertson. Mr. Eschief expressed words of gratitude of the Council and Administration’s support. Governor William R. Rhodes and various Council members expressed words of gratitude. REPORTS *1. Sacaton Middle School Annual Report Presenter: Philip Bonds REPORT HEARD *2. Skyline District 5 School Status Report Presenters: Rudy Dulfo & Molly Ryan & Carl Hill TABLED *3. Health Resources Department – FY1011 Semi- Annual Report Presenter: Laverne Dallas REPORT HEARD MOTION MADE AND SECOND FOR 10- MINUTE BREAK RECONVENED AT 11:36AM 4. School Board Coalition Report Presenter: Michelle Lyons REPORT HEARD 5. Casa Blanca Community School 3rd Quarter Allocation Report Presenter: Eric James TABLED AT APPROVAL OF AGENDA 6. Casa Blanca Community School Annual Report SY2010/2011 Presenter: Eric James TABLED AT APPROVAL OF AGENDA 7. Transportation Update Report Presenters: Bonnie Lyons & Amish Purdit REPORT HEARD MOTION MADE AND SECOND FOR LUNCH BREAK UNTIL 2:00PM RECONVENED AT 2:01PM 8. Gila River Sand & Gravel’s Independent Auditors’ Report For Fiscal Year 2010 Presenters: Marilyn Mays & Michael Morago REPORT HEARD 9. Urban Members Association Quarterly Report Presenter: Renee Bearhand REPORT HEARD 10. Ira H. Hayes American Legion Post 84 Activities Report Presenter: Manuel Hernandez REPORT HEARD 11. Gila River Gaming Enterprises, Inc. Monthly Report – July 2011(Executive Session) Presenter: John James & Board of Directors MOTION MADE AND SECOND TO ENTER EXECUTIVE SESSION REPORT HEARD IN EXECUTIVE SESSION 12. FY 2011 July 31, 2011 Month End Financial Reports (Executive Session) Presenter: Robert Keller & Mike Jacobs REPORT HEARD IN EXECUTIVE SESSION MOTION MADE AND SECOND TO EXIT EXECUTIVE SESSION RESOLUTIONS *1. A Resolution Approving The Golf Facility Management Agreement Between The Gila River Indian Community And Troon Golf, LLC To Manage And Operate The Whirlwind Golf Club In The Wild Horse Pass Development Area (EDSC motioned to forward to Council for approval; contingent upon G&M’s Approval; G&MSC concurs) Presenters: Ron Rosier, Dale Gutenson, & Steve Heeley APPROVED *2. A Resolution By The Gila River Indian Community Approving And Consenting To A Grant of Right Of Way Easement Within A Parcel Of Allotted Land Partially Owned By The Gila River Indian Community, To The Department Of The Interior, Bureau Of Indian Affairs For The Purpose Of Constructing, Operating, Managing And Maintaining A Road Way And Utilities Corridor, Located In District One Of The Gila River Indian Reservation And Shown In Drawing Number 30109-0008AEA-03 (NRSC forwards to Council with recommendation for approval) Presenters: Calvin Touchin & Antonelli Anton APPROVED *3. A Resolution Approving An Agreement Between The Gila River Indian Community And The New Magma Irrigation And Drainage District Providing For The Delivery Of In-lieu Water For Water Storage At A Groundwater Savings Facility (NRSC forwards to Council with recommendation for approval; G&MSC concurs) Presenter: Thomas Murphy APPROVED *4. A Resolution Approving The Petition For The Enrollment Of Brandon Dean Morgan Into The Gila River Indian Community (LSC forwards to Council with recommendation for approval) Presenter: Gwen Thomas TABLED AT APPROVAL OF AGENDA 5. A Resolution Delegating to the Economic Development Standing Committee of the Gila River Indian Community Council Authority to Approve Lease Compliance Actions on Behalf of the Community Council, Including Authority to Approve Settlement Agreements with Lessees, to Waive Lessee Defaults or Breaches, to Approve Amendments to, or Extensions of, Existing Leases of Community Land, and to Approve New Leases to Replace Expired Leases of Community Land (NRSC concurs with EDSC to for- October 2011 Page 18 Gila River Indian News September 21, 2011 Action Sheets continued Presenters: Linus Everling & Tom Murphy APPROVED 19. A Resolution Approving The Gila River Indian Community Gaming Internal Audit Department’s Annual Audit Plan For Fiscal Year 2012 (G&MSC forwards to Council with recommendation for approval) Presenters: Robert Keller & Robert Russin APPROVED 20. A Resolution Establishing A Community Housing Task Force To Oversee The Department Of Community Housing And The Administration Of The Native Housing Assistance And Self-Determination Act Program, The Residential Housing Improvement Program, And The Home Benefit Program, And To Develop And Implement A Plan To More Effectively And Efficiently Provide Housing To Community Members (G&MSC forwards to Council with recommendation for approval) Presenter: Ron Rosier APPROVED ORDINANCES UNFINISHED BUSINESS 1. Spring Training Report (EDSC forwards to Council with memos) Presenter: Dale Gutenson & Steve Heeley REPORT ACCEPTED 2. Department Of Community Housing Monthly Report – August 2011 (G&MS forwards to Council under Unfinished Business) Presenter: Nellie Gilmore REPORT HEARD NEW BUSINESS *1. Ira H. Hayes High School SY2011/2012 Written Plan (ESC forwards to Council with recommendation for approval) Presenter: Wendy Ong APPROVED *2. Vee Quiva Casino Expansion and Lease Renewal (Executive Session) (G&MSC concurs with EDSC and forwards to Council in Executive Session with recommendation for approval and support of the three items on Page (3) of the memo) Presenter: Ron Rosier MOTION MADE AND SECOND TO APPROVE AND SUPPORT THE 3 ITEMS IN THE AKIN GUMP, AUGUST 9, 2011 MEMORANDUM 3. Boys & Girls Clubs Of The East Valley Gila River MOA & Letter (G&MSC forwards to Council) Presenters: Branch Board of & Directors MOTION MADE AND SECOND TO EXTEND BOYS & GIRLS CLUBS OF THE EAST VALLEY’S MOA FOR A TERM OF ONE YEAR 4. Law Office Division (Executive Session) (G&MSC forwards to Council in Executive Session with recommendation for approval) Presenters: Linus Everling & Tom Murphy MOTION MADE AND SECOND TO TABLE AND SEND BACK TO LEGISLATIVE STANDING COMMITTEE 5. GRIC Revenue/Internal Audit FY 2011 Third Quarter Report (Executive Session) (G&MSC forwards to Council in Executive Session with recommendation to accept report) Presenters: Penni McCabe & Robert Keller MOTION MADE AND SECOND TO ACCEPT THE REPORT MINUTES 1. May 4, 2011 (Regular) APPROVED WITH CHANGES ANNOUNCEMENTS >MR. DEAN SCHURZ TO LIEN IN STATE ON THURSDAY, SEPTEMBER 22, 2011 >GTI SHAERHOLDRES MEETING THURSDAY, SEPTEMBER 22, 2011 >G&M RECONVENING ON MONDAY, SEPTEMBER 26, 2011 REGARDING THE COMMUNITY BUDGET ADJOURNMENT MEETING ADJOURNED AT 5:53pm * Denotes TABLED from previous meeting(s) CROSSROADS AUTO CENTER 1026 N PINAL CASA GRANDE, AZ 85122 520-836-2112 Across from FIRST AMERICAN CREDIT UNION 10ar0a% nteed Gu Approval Credit NATIVE FRIENDLY STARTS AT $99 DOWN @3.9 % O.A.C. All Cars have a FULL WARRANTY for 2 YEARS. For instant approval Call 520-836-2112 or Visit us at: WWW.CROSSROADSAUTO.ORG With this ad get a Free $10 gas card after test drive and c/a CSD Employee of the year Francisco Anselmo, D2, was awarded the Community Service Department’s (CSD) 2011 Employee of the Year award at CSD’s Employee Recognition Assembly held at the D1 Multipurpose Building on Fri, Sept. 23. Anselmo is an HVAC technician and was one of three finalists who included Colin Francisco, D6, and Cynthia Gonzalez, D7. CSD Director, Jose Solarez thanked the employees at the assembly for the services they provide to the Community. “You’re doing a tremendous job,” he said. Employees received appreciation awards in many categories like: Above and Beyond award, Positive Attitude award, Customer Service award, etc. Fun awards were also given like: Project Runway award, Iron Chef award and Funniest Laugh award to name a few. The assembly also included team building activities where teams were formed according to costumes they were assigned to wear. October 2011 Page 19 Gila River Indian News Special Saturday Clinics Are Now Offered at Hu Hu Kam Memorial Hospital! Sacaton, Arizona (September 27, 2011) Gila River Health Care is proud to announce that Dental appointments are being scheduled for Saturday appointments beginning October 1, 2011, at Hu Hu Kam Memorial Hospital. This will be the rst �me dental appointments can be scheduled on a Saturday, so the next few weeks will be �me to monitor, evaluate, and adjust the schedules to ensure the service provided meets our quality standards and the expecta�ons of pa�ents that are scheduled. During the 2012 scal year (FY), feasibility reviews will be conducted to examine how dental appointments can be extended at the Komatke Health Center. As of September 2011, the Dental Department at Hu Hu Kam Memorial Hospital and the Komatke Health Center were opened Monday through Friday, with extended hours of opera�ons from 8:00 a.m. to 6:30 p.m. The ability to provide more availability of appointment �mes to be scheduled on Saturday at Hu Hu Kam Memorial Hospital is one way increased access to dental services for the Community is being implemented. The ability to increase access for pa�ent care in the dental department impacts various areas of the business and had to be well planned and coordinated. The determina�on of staff needs which included the Den�st, Dental Assistance, Infec�on Control Technician, Pa�ent Registra�on, Laboratory fees, dental supplies, and addi�onal opera�ons costs had to be accounted for in order for the department to meet the opera�onal expecta�ons of Gila River Health Care. Our mission is to provide high-quality health care to our pa�ents that align with the applica�on of “best prac�ces” based on At this �me, there are nine (9) “operatories” (dental sound nancial applica�ons. chair sta�ons) at Hu Hu Kam Memorial Hospital, and each day they are in full use. The average wait The improvements being implemented in the �me to secure an appointment in the Dental Dental Department is only the next step of many Department has been over one month, which changes being planned at Gila River Health Care. starkly reects that the demand for dental services Our vision is to work toward con�nually looking at is outpacing the department’s ability because of ways that will help improve the health status of the the limits in space. This unfavorable experience of communi�es we serve! limited access to appointments has led to pa�ent frustra�ons as well as a high level of concern by dental providers and staff not being able to provide �mely care for vulnerable pa�ents. A major challenge faced by the health care organiza�on is to address the physical space limita�ons in the dental departments, which is a similar dilemma faced by many other departments at Hu Hu Kam Memorial Hospital. The addi�on of more dental appointments on Saturdays at the Hu Hu Kam campus is a strategy to address the immediate demand for appointments, with the expecta�on of developing permanent plans to create more treatment space for dental pa�ents in FY2012 and FY2013. Remodeling and Improvement Efforts have begun at Hu Hu Kam Memorial Hospital Sacaton, Arizona (September 26, 2011) In the coming weeks, beginning in October of 2011, pa�ents and their families will begin to see and hear discussions on the room change congura�ons and the movement of various departments at Hu Hu Kam Memorial Hospital, as it begins to implement the pre-planning and re-modeling phases of the HUD Red Flag Projects (HUD I). Over the past year, Gila River Health Care’s key management personnel and its Building Services Department nalized the specics and receipt of the HUD grant award dollars, as well as the selec�on of the architect rm, Orcu� / Winslow of Phoenix, Arizona. The months of September through October will begin the rst phase of the construc�on process, which was the schema�c design process. The second phase, the Design process, is scheduled to take place during the la�er part of October through November of 2011. Phases three and four, which include the construc�on document review, GRIC review, bid procurement, and quality review will take place from November of 2011 through Febru- Komatke Health Center 17487 South Healthcare Drive Laveen, Az 85339 Phone: 520-550-6000 Fax: 520-550-6033 ary 2012. Based on the an�cipated approved comple�on design, the construc�on and remodel phase will begin in February with an es�mated project closeout of October 2012. As you can see, the renova�ons of Hu Hu Kam Memorial Hospital is an intensive process that requires numerous collabora�ve efforts among GRHC Building Services, various GRHC departments, the architecture rm, and the Gila River Indian Community. The project will affect and improve the delivery of services in the following areas: Front Entry /Lobby areas, Pa�ent Registra�on areas, Benets Coordina�on Services areas, front Public Restrooms, Pharmacy, Laboratory, Medical Records area, recongura�on of the Environmental Services area, Materials Management areas, Employee Health Department, and an expansion of the Dietary area. pleted to provide the service levels expected of the Community. Gila River Health Care expects the improvements to accomplish the following goals and objec�ves: improve the quality of health care services at Hu Hu Kam Memorial Hospital; reduce energy usage and enhance green development; expand the square footage of the outpa�ent registra�on area and remodel the lobby in the outpa�ent department to decrease wait �mes, provide addi�onal sea�ng, and improve pa�ent sa�sfac�on; and create construc�on jobs and employment of Community members. As this project progresses, updates will be provided to the Community, and pa�ents will begin to visually see changes in hallways and service areas. Secondly, a new HUD Grant was awarded to GRHC this September, which will bring more improvements and expansion to health care service areas. Details on this project will be shared in upcoming ar�cles. Hu Hu Kam Memorial Hospital was originally built in Gila River Health Care is poised to con�nually work 1988. As such, over the past years the leadership of toward improving the health care delivery systems GRHC has recognized that remodeling and improve- for the pa�ents and their families! ments in key service delivery areas must be com- Hu Hu Kam Memorial Hospital 483 West Seed Farm Road P.O. Box 38 Sacaton, AZ 85147 Phone: 520-562-3321 Fax: 602-528-1240 Ak Chin Health Clinic 48203 West Farrell Road Maricopa, AZ 85239 Phone: 520-568-3881 Fax: 520-568-3884 October 2011 PUBLIC NOTICES SECTION Page 20 OCTOBER 29TH, 2011 | D3 BALL FIELDS | 5 PM - 11 PM 5:00-8:00pm Activity/ Info Booths 5:00-7:00pm Halloween Movie 5:30pm Sign up 15 Families for Pumpkin Carving Contest 6:00pm Competition Begins for Pumpkin Carving 6:00-8:00pm Wagon Scare Ride 7:30 pm Judging of the Pumpkins after judging, Costume Contest begins 8:00-11pm Band Starts For more information contact D3 Rec - 520.562.2706 | 562.2724 | 562.2710 - Hours: M - F 8am -5pm
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