Family activities most children enjoy are often nonexistent for kids involved in state Protective Services programs. So Edwina Leal, an investigator with the New Mexico Children, Youth and Families Department's Protective Services Division, goes out of her way to "put a smile on (kids') faces and make them feel safe," according to coworkers who nominated Leal as the division's latest employee of the month.

In CYFD's Early Childhood Services Division, Steve Hendrix was recognized as employee of the month for his "dedication and innovative ideas." Hendrix, a data unit manager, was commended in particular for creating a timesaving and error-reduction tool for the calculation of client income and co-payments.

Juvenile probation and parole officer Naomi Larkin was named outstanding employee in the Youth and Family Services Division. Larkin was noted for her willingness to commit extra time and effort for the "betterment of (her clients') families."

And three employees share the latest top monthly spot in CYFD's Juvenile Justice Services Division. Kathleen Blatchley and Jody Stone-Mitotes are registered nurses, and Michael Foster is a math teacher working with youth who are involved with Juvenile Justice Services programs. Blatchley is known for her "enthusiasm, dedication and professionalism," according to her nominators. Stone-Mitotes was praised for putting in many non-work hours on behalf of clients. And Foster was noted for going out of his way for students who need extra help.


Anne Killoy and Peter Sandoval have been honored as employees of the month in the New Mexico General Services Department. Killoy, a landscape care specialist in the Building Services Division, has earned the respect and appreciation of co-workers and others for her "exceptional" performance and her "efforts in ... promoting a safe and secure work environment," according to members of the agency's employee action committee.

Sandoval is a supervisor/manager in the Building Services Division. With a quiet but "courteous and professional" demeanor, he is known for "always responding to calls and/or requests in a prompt and speedy manner." Sandoval's nomination included praise from his colleagues, staff and the division's customers.


Along with a new chief and deputy chiefs, the Santa Fe City Police Department has observed a number of other promotions in recent weeks. Assisting Aric Wheeler as the department's new chief are Deputy Chief Robin Contreras, promoted from captain, and Deputy Chief Abram Anaya, promoted from lieutenant. Capt. Gerald Rivera moved up from lieutenant, and three former sergeants now hold the rank of lieutenant: Dean Norris, William Johnson and Ben Nuñez. In addition, Sgt. Peter Neal, Sgt. Sean Strahon and Sgt. Michael Eiskant marked their promotion from officer status.

If you have news about a public employee, contact Fauntleroy at 988-4068, fax 988-7262 or gussie7@comcast.net.