Gallup Journey-April2025

J ourney

The Free Community Magazine

National Lineman Day

April 18, 2025 is National Lineman Day, and the City of Gallup extends its appreciation to all linemen and employees of the Electric Department. Linemen are on call 24/7 to respond to incidents around the City, such as fallen power lines, damaged light poles, and other issues. Linemen are required to work in all weather conditions. In fact, it is typically during poor weather conditions - such as heavy downpours and blizzards - when linemen are called to action during early morning hours or over the weekend.

Building Department Capacity

The department has 25 employees, including six linemen, two line foremen, three linemen apprentices, and four in the Meter Technician Apprenticeship Program. One of the main focuses of the department’s director, Charles Nourse, is building capacity in the department for longterm staffing needs. Apprenticeship programs, including the new Meter Technician Apprenticeship, help give people

City of Gallup April Update

new to the industry hands-on training and opportunities for advancement. The new career pathway opportunities offer apprentices a five year plan to become a journeyman. Apprentices spend a year as a groundman and work in different areas of the department before qualifying for a specific area of expertise in which to concentrate for on-the-job training hours.

Preventative Maintenance

Department employees are not just on call to respond to incidents and emergencies, but they also work hard to prevent issues across the spanning electrical system overseen by the City. A major preventative maintenance project for the Noe Substation was recently approved by the City Council and is planned to begin this month. The Noe Substation, located near Philipin Avenue, plays a major role in regulating electric power to the community. While the Noe Substation is down for maintenance, the City will utilize the Mendoza Substation to continue electrical service without planned interruptions. Consumers should not notice a difference in services during the seven days of planned maintenance. Included in the maintenance will be replacing all transformer oil, replacing gaskets, testing circuit breakers, and other repairs and services.

Bixby Electric. The Stagecoach neighborhood had poles replaced in the alley behind Freedom Drive. This project required the use of special equipment to extract the old pole from a customer’s back yard and relocate it several feet away outside of the customer’s yard. The new poles at the Gomez subdivision, north of Playground of Dreams, required double circuit lines erected for the new lines leaving the new Sunshine substation near the McKinley Community Service Center. These planned replacements are in addition to responding to poles damaged by accidents. In recent months, several electric poles have been hit and damaged by motorists. The public is reminded to treat all electrical lines as actively charged and dangerous.

Pole Replacement Project

Neighborhoods across the City are in the process of having electric poles replaced with help from

To report a utility service disruption, downed power lines or other utility emergencies, contact: From 8 a.m. to 5 p.m., Monday-Friday Utility Dispatch: (505) 863-1200

Nights, weekends and holidays

Central NM Dispatch: 1(833) 863-1212 Metro Dispatch: (505) 722-2002

Mayor Louie Bonaguidi

District 1 Councilor Linda Garcia

District 2 Councilor Sarah Piano

District 3 Councilor Michael Schaaf

District 4 Councilor Ron Molina

Bixby Electric linemen shown working as part of the City’s Pole Replacement Project.

City Electric Dept. employees pictured with a crew from Bixby Electric.

CHECKLIST BECOME A LOBO

STEP 1:

APPLY

Visit our website and submit an Admissions Application online. It’s easy.

STEP 2: ADVISEMENT

Make an appointment with an advisor. We’re ready to guide you.

STEP 3: FINANCIAL AID

Talk about your options with a financial aid officer. We’ve got your back.

STEP 4: GET EXCITED!

You’re on your way to becoming a Lobo. Woof, woof, woof!

Thoughts From The West End

Don’t Be the Fool— Happy April Fools’ Day!

Let’s be real: life is already a roller-coaster full of loop-de-loops, unexpected drops, and that one person in the back screaming for no reason. So why voluntarily strap yourself into extra stress?

Your physical and mental health are like VIP concert tickets—you gotta protect them! Stepping away from unnecessary drama doesn’t make you a wimp, a chicken, or a “fraidy cat”—it makes you the wise, stress-free mastermind who dodged a bullet. Emotional intelligence and maturity mean knowing when to step back, resisting the urge to “one-up” everyone, and choosing inner peace over pointless bickering. “Ain’t nobody got time for that!”

No one has the time for all this tomfoolery, declare this April Fool’s Day as the day you say, “see you later fools.”

Here are some words of wisdom to help you escape the nonsense:

“My side of the story doesn’t matter anymore. Life happened, it hurt, I healed, but most importantly, I learned who deserves a seat at my table and who will never sit at it again.”unknown

This quote has been floating around social media like a viral dance challenge, but it’s a powerful truth bomb. It acknowledges the past, the pain, and the wisdom gained—without dragging baggage into your

April Fools Fun Facts

future like an overstuffed suitcase at airport security.

A friend once told me what her dad told her: “Does this moment deserve to be written in stone, or should it be scribbled in the sand and washed away by the tide?”

(Let’s be honest, some things are barely worth a Post-it note.)

Both perspectives are gold. I get it—letting go is easier said than done. Especially when something feels permanently carved into stone, and every new chisel mark feels like reopening an old wound. But remember, healing isn’t about ignoring the past— it’s about learning from it, growing from it, and knowing when to walk away like a main character in a dramatic slow-motion exit.

So next time you’re about to engage in nonsense, ask yourself, “Is this really worth my energy? Will I care about this tomorrow? Next year? Does this even deserve a response?” If the answer is no, go do something better—take a bath, watch a ridiculous movie, try a kick boxing class, or whatever tickles your fancy.

Disclaimer: This is NOT an encouragement to run from responsibilities! Work, relationships, and anything significant deserve the effort. Just ensure your energy goes to things (and people) that matter. Now go forth and be the wise, unbothered legend or side character (Ehm, me) you were meant to be!

• On April 1st, 1957, the BBC aired a classic April Fool's Day hoax, a segment claiming a Swiss farming family harvested spaghetti from "spaghetti trees," which many viewers believed, leading to widespread confusion and calls asking how to grow their own.

• The National Geographic announced via Twitter in 2016 that it would no longer publish pictures of naked animals.

Happy April Fools Day!

sudoku

When you finish these puzzles, bring them to our office at 210 E. Aztec Ave, оr take a pic with your phone and email it to gallupjourney@gmail.com. Don’t forget to include your name.

March Master Finishers

Billy Baldwin

Mark Gartner

DK & Footies

R Morris

Beverly Abeita

Lois Becenti

Jaye Smith

Jill Yazzi

W.G.Curley

Alakai

MaSuni

DGonzales

Doma

Maureen Bia

Steph J

Sara Landavazo

Kristina Gonzales

E. Skeet

Christina Ashley

L. James

Libby J.

MITCH

Edith

Natalya

Richard

Jason

Chuck

Kenneth

Bob

Gabrielle

THE ORIGIN OF APRIL FOOLS’ DAY IS UNKNOWN, BUT THEORIES SAY IT STARTED HUNDREDS OF YEARS AGO.

APRIL IS NATIONAL POETRY MONTH

THE WORD "APRIL" IS THOUGHT TO COME FROM THE LATIN WORD "APERIRE," MEANING "TO OPEN," REFLECTING THE BLOSSOMING OF NATURE DURING THIS TIME OF YEAR.

APRIL 22: EARTH DAY.

THE BIRTH FLOWERS FOR APRIL ARE THE DAISY AND THE SWEET PEA.

ZODIAC SIGNS ARIES (MARCH 21 - APRIL 19) AND TAURUS (APRIL 20 - MAY 20

BIRTHSTONE: DIAMONDS

On behalf of the Gallup McKinley County Chamber of Commerce, thank you for standing with the voice of business.

We deeply appreciate your support in protecting New Mexico’s economy by opposing the Paid Family and Medical Leave proposal—one of the most significant tax increases in our state's history. Your leadership in advancing economic growth through your vote for the Trade Ports Development Act helps lay the groundwork for a stronger, more connected, and more prosperous New Mexico. Thank you for championing policies that support businesses, jobs, and the future of our communities.

Our team of highly qualified and experienced brokers is dedicated to delivering exceptional Real Estate Services. As local market experts, we utilize cutting-edge technology and innovative strategies to ensure seamless transactions and outstanding results for both Sellers and Buyers. We specialize in assisting first-time homebuyers, guiding them through every step of the purchasing process with expertise and care. Committed to professionalism and client success, our brokers and staff provide expert guidance and personalized service for all your real estate needs, including Residential, Commercial and Property Management.

Lee Langen

Tony “Savio” Sanchez

Anthony Perez

Alicia Pulley

Jennifer Macias

Olga Starr

BusDriver AppreciationHappy

to our incredible GMCS bus drivers! From daily routes to activity trips, they ensure students travel safely while creating a welcoming and supportive environment. Your dedication makes a difference every day! ��

Join us in celebrating our drivers! #GMCSBusDrivers #ThankYouDrivers

Interested in becoming a bus driver or mechanic? Scan the QR code to apply now!

Parent Information Night

“Dine Coffee - the people’s coffee”

By Jennifer Bates

IGabriel Toledo of Gallup

couldn’t remember the last time we got rain or snow here in Gallup, so on Thursday morning, when I looked outside and saw a light blanket of snow, it reminded me of something a student once said to me; “It’s like the earth took a shower!” It was beautiful and peaceful, and it smelled so fresh and clean. On my way to work that morning, I was driving on Maloney Ave. and saw something I hadn’t seen before. On the side of what I thought was a food truck were the words “Dine Coffee.” With the snow gently falling and my hands still cold, I thought a cup of hot coffee sounded pretty good right about then. What started out as a quick stop turned into a story worth telling.

“It took us seven years. We built it from scratch; it started out as a regular flatbed trailer.” When Troy Baldwin, the owner, talks about his “coffee truck,” you can see the sense of accomplishment in his eyes. He and his wife, Devon, worked regular, full-time jobs and worked on building their tiny houseturned-coffee-on-wheels on weekends and evenings until they had everything they needed to hit the road and start selling great-tasting coffee and other items.

Chad Yazzie

They had only been married for a year when they started on this project.

“It all started when we got interested in the tiny-house movement. We were living in a fifth-wheel trailer at the time, and we had this idea to build our own tiny house. But, all of us living in such a small space made us realize that it was a little too close for comfort, so we decided to make it into a mobile coffee truck instead.” Good use of space is especially important when you don’t have a lot of it.

“My brother bought an espresso machine (it was huge), and that inspired us. Now, we have our own espresso machine, a drip coffee machine, and three different grinders for our coffee beans. We can make a variety of drinks for all your coffee (and caffeine!) needs.”

Everything is custom built, from the walls, exhaust, heating, cooling, windows, counters, shelves, and grill.

Troy graduated from Gallup High School and served in the Marine Corps

from 2014 to 2020. He has an extensive list of injuries and wanted to do something that wouldn’t be too physically demanding as the years go by. Dine Coffee was invited to attend, present, and sit on the panel at “vocation day” at Miyamura High School at the end of February. Students from Miyamura, Ramah, and Tohatchi were able to ask Troy and Devon questions about their business. The students were working on designing food trucks.

Troy’s nephew, Chad Yazzie, is their barista. He learned how to make great-tasting drinks from working at different coffee shops over the past 10 years and pays attention to every detail in his work. While I was there, he made me a Navajo tea Latte, which was so delicious. It was paired with a blue corn cookie, which solidified that I would definitely be back for more.

Their menu also includes blue corn pancakes and muffins.

Customer Gabriel Toledo of Gallup (pictured left) said the blue corn muffins and “best-tasting coffee” are why he stops by at least every other day on his way to work. There were quite a few customers the morning I stopped by, and the smell of bacon was pretty enticing. Breakfast burritos are $6 each, and you have your choice of bacon, sausage, spam, red or green chili, hash browns, cheese, and eggs, and they are all made to order just the way you want them.

As far as quality coffee goes, Troy explained the cupping score to me. It’s a 100-point scale, and all of his coffee is scored at 85 or higher, is certified organic, and fair trade. Fair trade means that the farmers who grow the coffee beans are paid a fair market price for their coffee and are not ripped

off. It also means that no pesticides were used. While this would usually mean higher-priced coffee, Troy is happy to say that because his coffee truck is all paid off and he has a low overhead, he can keep the cost of his coffee lower for his customers.

Their number one seller is the caramel macchiato, with the Navajo Tea latte coming in at a close second. (which gets my vote!)

Future goals include obtaining a card reader and a drive-through system, with the ultimate goal of having their very own coffee shop in a permanent building. To help them reach that goal, you can support these entrepreneurs and their dreams by stopping by for an excellent cup of joe and some tasty food to go with it. They are on the corner of 1st Street and Maloney Ave on the North side of Gallup from 7 a.m. to noon, Tuesday through Friday, and at the Gallup Flea Market from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. on Saturdays. They are also happy to take orders for burritos, drinks, blue corn cookies, or muffins. “Just give us a heads up when you need them,” says Troy, laughing. You can find them on Facebook and TikTok at “Dine Coffee,” on Instagram at “Navajo Coffee,” or email them at navajocoffee@gmail. com.

Although it took a lot of hard work, money, and patience, Troy and Devon have so much to be proud of! They are business owners with a unique variety of opportunities and a very bright future ahead of them!

Troy Baldwin, Devon Baldwin, Chad Yazzie

Walking in Beauty Fun Ways to Boost Iron in Your Child's Diet

By Daisy Arsenault

Registered Dietitian

Iron is a vital nutrient that helps our bodies produce healthy red blood cells. Without enough iron, kids can feel tired, cranky, or have a poor appetite. In the Southwest, we love bold flavors, so why not create a fun, iron-rich dish with a local twist?

The Importance of Iron

Iron deficiency is common in children, especially those who drink too much milk. While milk is a great source of calcium, drinking too much can prevent the body from absorbing enough iron. The result? Kids might become fatigued, irritable, or show signs of poor growth.

Southwest Iron Power Bowl

This colorful, kid-approved Southwest Iron Power Bowl packs a punch of iron with red meat, leafy greens, and beans — all essential for boosting iron levels. Plus, it’s bursting with familiar New Mexican flavors that kids love.

Ingredients:

• 1 pound lean ground beef (a great source of iron)

• 1 can black beans, drained and rinsed (rich in iron)

• 2 cups fresh spinach, chopped (packed with iron and other nutrients)

• 1 cup cooked quinoa or rice

• 1/2 cup diced tomatoes

• 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese

• 1 teaspoon cumin

• 1 teaspoon chili powder

• Salt and pepper to taste

• Flour or corn tortillas (optional, for serving)

Instructions:

1. In a large skillet, cook the ground beef over medium heat until fully browned. Drain excess fat.

2. Add the cumin, chili powder, diced tomatoes, and black beans to the skillet. Stir well and cook for another 5 minutes.

3. Toss in the chopped spinach and stir until just wilted.

4. Serve the mixture over cooked quinoa or rice.

5. Sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese on top for added flavor. If your kids enjoy tacos, spoon the mixture into warm tortillas for a fun twist!

Iron Boosting Tips

• Add a squeeze of lime for a vitamin C boost — this helps your child’s body absorb more iron.

• Try pairing this dish with orange slices or a fruit salad for even better absorption.

Shaffer Tire Inc.

We make it easy to match the right tire to your vehicle.

Since 1978, families and businesses have come to us for tire sales and guidance.

Over the years we’ve expanded our inventory to provide the best tire brands to our customers.

Keep your tires healthy with tire rotation and balancing, or talk with us about brake repair, suspension repair, and wheel alignment services.

Call to schedule an appointment today.

Financing is available.

This Earth Day the McKinley Citizens’ Recycling Council is focusing on our partnership with TerraCycle. We are encouraging our local governments, businesses and residents to reduce waste through the TerraCycle Zero Waste and Free Box programs.

Overconsumption and a throwaway culture have led to a global waste crisis.

Many materials are not seen as profitable to recycle. As a result, waste piles up in landfills. Extracting virgin materials from the earth to create new products produces pollution and other damage to the earth. TerraCycle’s mission is Eliminating the Idea of Waste®. Across the globe, businesses, government entities, and individuals join TerraCycle to keep trash out of landfills or from incineration. Through collaboration and innovation, TC works with manufacturers to make their products and/or packaging from waste generating a demand for recycled content.

ZeroWaste Boxes make it possible to recycle almost anything that is not accepted by local recycling services. This program comes with a fee (depending on the size of the box) that covers box cost, pre-paid shipping, and processing of the materials. Mixed Salon Waste, Pet Food Packaging, Disposable Masks and Gloves, and over a hundred more items can be recycled. Butler’s Office Supply is MCRC’s first partner. Check out their Zero Waste box at the store entrance, where you can deposit used and broken pens, mechanical pencils, markers, and highlighters. MCRC is currently seeking partners / sponsors for dental waste, such as used toothbrushes and toothpaste tubes as well as used gift wrap, bows and the like.

At terracycle.com you can view the 121 different Free Boxes available. You can recycle hard-to-recycle trash for free in this program because the boxes are sponsored by brands and retailers from around the world. Materials collected through these boxes include a variety of containers and packaging from Babybel Cheese to Brita Filters, to SaraLee and Oroweat bread.

For more information about TerraCycle programs, to partner or to become a sponsor with MCRC contact: betsywindisch@yahoo.com / Linda (505) 905-5966 www.facebook.com/recyclegallup

By Dr. Valory Wangler

The Journey is partnering with Gallup Community Health to answer health-related questions from our community. To propose a question, please email info@ gallupcommunityhealth.org. While this column provides general answers, everyone is different, so the best way to seek medical advice is to ask your healthcare provider.

When Betsy Arakawa, actor Gene Hackman’s wife, died many parts of the country heard for the first time of a virus all too familiar to the Four Corners: hantavirus. Hantavirus and the sometimes-deadly disease it

Hantavirus in our area is a part of a larger hantavirus family, most common in Asia, Ask the Doctor: What is Hantavirus, what

causes – Hantavirus Pulmonary Syndrome - is an uncommon but important to know about threat to health in our area.

but found in many parts of the world. In our area, hantavirus was first scientifically identified in 1993 in an outbreak centered in McKinley County where local physicians like Richard Malone, MD and Bruce Tempest, MD, along with the CDC helped to determine that the cause of an unexplained cluster of illness and death was caused by hantavirus. Approximately 50 people were confirmed to have contracted hantavirus that year, and more than 50% of those died. Among our Navajo community members, however, the history stretched much longer with clusters of deaths in particularly rainy springs in 1918, 1933 and 1934 thought due to hantavirus. Hantavirus is caused by…. well… a virus. The virus is carried by mice and rodents, and in our region that is usually the urine, feces, or saliva of the deer mouse. Warm winters and wet springs mean more food for rodents and larger rodent populations. More deer mice mean more opportunity for hantavirus to take hold in the mouse population and more opportunity for mice and humans to be in the same spaces. New Mexico has the highest number of cases of Hantavirus Pulmonary Syndrome since 1993, with Colorado, Arizona, and California also high on the list.

Symptoms of Hantavirus

Pulmonary Syndrome start one to eight weeks after exposure and include fatigue, fever, muscle aches, and GI symptoms like nausea and diarrhea. These are followed by cough and shortness of breath. Unlike with common colds, patients usually do not have a runny nose, sore throat or rash. Anyone with these symptoms (especially shortness of breath) after exposure to rodents should seek medical help right away.

Because Hantavirus Pulmonary Syndrome can be deadly, including for otherwise healthy adults, with mortality rates around 40% in New Mexico, prevention is key. A common scenario is an individual cleaning out a shed where mouse droppings are seen and then becoming ill, but rodent exposure can occur in many places. Avoiding hantavirus is all about avoiding rodents and their waste. The CDC recommends this strategy:

Seal Up: Keep mice out of your home by eliminating places they can come in, keeping food sealed, and keeping outside areas free of rodent habitat by sealing trash containers, old vehicles, etc.

Trap Up: Trap rodents with snap traps or poison baits to remove them from your home area.

Clean Up: Spray any rodent

waste or areas where mice may have been until soaked with bleach solution (one cup bleach to 10 cups water) or disinfectant and allow the spray to sit for at least five minutes before cleaning it up with a paper towel and throwing that away. Wear gloves and wash hands with soap and water. If possible, wear a mask, specifically a well-fitting N95 type mask. Do not sweep or vacuum up mouse droppings as this can cause the virus to get into the air making it easier to breath in the virus and become infected.

If you have questions about how to avoid hantavirus or clean up an area that could be a risk, reach out to your healthcare provider or the Department of Health.

Ask the Doctor: I am concerned about my measles immunity, do I need a shot?

Infectious diseases have been making headlines recently in New Mexico. In this month’s Journey we tackle two such illnesses receiving recent attention – hantavirus and measles. At Gallup Community Health we’ve answered many calls from patients concerned about their measles immunity and whether they might need a shot. I’ll answer those here!

At the time of this writing, more than 330 people in Texas and New Mexico have contracted the measles, approaching the 285 that were reported nationwide in all of 2024. Yes, the measles, a disease which sounds like something only our grandparents had to worry about. Approximately 17% of these individuals have required hospitalization and two have died.

So, what is the measles? The measles virus is a virus that infects mostly children and causes common cold symptoms like fever, sore throat, cough, and pink eye, as well as a rash of small red bumps that starts on the face and spreads to the body. Some of

those infected with the measles virus, including otherwise healthy children, develop pneumonia, which can be severe. For every 1,000 children infected, one to three will die. Others may develop encephalitis, which can cause permanent brain damage.

If you or your child have symptoms you think could be the measles, please call ahead to alert your healthcare facility. Because measles is so contagious, your clinic or hospital will take additional precautions and need to know in advance that you are concerned.

The measles virus is extremely contagious – one of the most contagious viruses in the world. Fortunately, it is also highly preventable with routine childhood vaccination. The measles-mumpsrubella (MMR) vaccine or MMRV which also includes varicella (chicken pox vaccine) is given to children at 1215 months of age and again at age 4-6 years, usually at the 4 year well child check. The vaccine 97% effective at preventing measles after two doses, is widely used and safe. It does not cause autism.

If you opted not to vaccinate your child against measles, it is not too late. Please call your healthcare provider today to get a vaccine to effectively prevent this potentially fatal infection. The vaccine is provided free of charge at many local facilities including Gallup Community Health.

Before the measles vaccine, because measles in so contagious, most people had the measles. Individuals born before 1957 most likely had the measles and are usually considered immune, though healthcare providers and those with compromised immune systems may need vaccination. For those born after 1957, check your shot records to make sure you received at least one measles shot. Healthcare professionals and those living with immunocompromised individuals (who cannot get the shot) should have documentation of two vaccinations. If you do not have a record of

vaccination, were vaccinated between 1963 and 1967 (when a less effective vaccine was in use), aren’t sure if you were vaccinated, or are considering pregnancy, please call your healthcare provider, as you may need a vaccine or a lab test to see if you are immune. Healthcare professionals should be sure they are immune and should work with their employers to make sure they have the documentation needed.

Still not sure if you are protected from measles? Have other questions about measles I didn’t answer here? Please reach out to your healthcare provider or call us at Gallup Community Health –505-397-5172.

Camille’s Cafe's Teacher of the Month

By Jennifer Bates

Students, family, friends, and coworkers are invited to nominate their most influential teacher at Camille’s Cafe. Which may be anyone you consider a "teacher" in your life, such as a preacher, music or dance instructor, or anyone who has taught you something valuable!

We proudly announce that Miss Vee, a.k.a. Miss. Verrica Livingston, a 1st & 2nd grade teacher from Twin Lakes Elementary, has been awarded Teacher of the Month!

From the Nominator(s): "Because Miss Vee is very helpful. She just graduated with her master’s degree all while teaching us. She is encouraging, beautiful, and uplifting! She has admiration for Navajo culture and cares for her

students wholeheartedly! We love Miss Vee! <3.”

Wikipedia: A teacher, or educator, is a person who helps students acquire knowledge, competence, or virtue via the practice of teaching. Add to that the words on her nomination form: encouraging, beautiful, helpful, and uplifting, and you’ve just described our teacher of the month, Verrica Livingston.

Ms. Livingston teaches first and second grades at Twin Lakes Elementary School. “I love being a teacher. I love my students, and I learn and grow from them.” She grew up and went to school in Twin Lakes. After earning her Bachelor's degree in early childhood education at UNM-Gallup and her Master's Degree in Educational Leadership at UNM-Albuquerque, she returned

home and started teaching third grade at Twin Lakes.

When asked what interested her in teaching, Ms. Livingston recalled her Kindergarten teacher. “She made learning fun, and I just loved going to school every day. My mom and grandma always said to me, “You should be a teacher,” but I never really thought I would be interested in teaching.”

“When I was in college, I did a work-study job, and one of the professors recommended that I work at a daycare, so I tried it, and I loved it. People were telling me that I was a natural.” Visiting her classroom, I saw no doubt that she loves teaching (almost as much as she loves Lilo and Stitch!) And her students love her back.

In 2016, wanting to try something

new, she moved to California and taught there for a year. Her grandma passed away, and she thought she might like living somewhere else for a while. But she really missed home. She missed the food, the culture, her students, her community, and most of all, her family. In 2017, she returned to Twin Lakes and figured out that teaching 1st graders would be a good fit for her. She also realized that everyone missed her, too! Coming home, she found that everything she needed was right here all along.

Ms. Livingston loves being there for her students, being a role model for them, and teaching them things that will allow them to prosper in middle and high school. Since she’s been there for 13 years, she has seen the students she taught in first grade graduate from high school! She was surprised (we weren’t!) that they remembered her! “When they told me some of the things they remembered in my classroom that were so fun, that was really special to me.”

She also coaches basketball for 4th and 5th graders and works in the after-school program. Her grandma significantly impacted her and always taught her to give back. Working with the kids is her way of giving back to her community. She strives to instill the basic skills they need to be happy and successful.

When I asked her about some of the challenges she faces, she told me about a time when she was sick for a few days and couldn’t come to school. One of her students asked her mom if they could pray for her so that she could return to school soon. “That really surprised me; I just didn’t realize that they

thought about that kind of stuff. It reminded me that I need to make sure I take care of myself too, which is something I think most teachers forget to do.” Putting others before themselves should be added to the definition of teachers on Wikipedia.

“It takes a lot of energy and a lot of patience, but for me, I do it for the love; there’s just something about it, every day, no matter how hard it gets, there’s so much we have to do, and I tell them that, I am here because of you.”

Growing up in Twin Lakes, Ms. Livingston understands what her students are going through and knows that coming to school can be a safe haven. “Every day I’m gonna make it better for them and I’m going to always try my best for

them because they need that.” I’ll end with another quote from her nomination form: “She has admiration for Navajo culture and cares for her students wholeheartedly!”

Thank you, Ms. Livingston, for up with a fiery Vietnamese sandwich—bold flavors for those who crave the spice!

Soil And Plants in the Southwest

Last month I stressed the importance of adding large amounts of organic matter into our soil to garden successfully. That applies to plants that do not normally grow here like blue grass lawns, petunias & roses, tomatoes & lettuce.

Now I’m going to give the exceptions--the plants that are native to this area and adapted to grow in our dirt. You may have alkaline, sandy, or clay soil that has little to no decayed leaves, grasses, or other organic matter. When extreme drought tolerant plants grow in rich soil, with lots of water every day, they will shrivel up and die! They have developed clever strategies to survive the challenges of growing in New Mexico. These are the very plants that we should plant in the most difficult spots like the “hells strip” between the street and sidewalk.

What changes did plants make in their genetic make-up to allow them to survive in such harsh conditions?

1.Desiccation tolerance: To desiccate something is to dry it thoroughly. This process is found in moss. The next time you go into the Zuni Mountains find a rock with moss. Pour some water on it and watch it come to life.

2.Drought-Avoidance: Early leaf dropping helps plants conserve moisture during hot summer months. Another method is what desert flowers do after rain. These plants flower and put out seed as soon as possible after the start of monsoon season. They die at the start of the dry hot season. The seeds they produced are in the soil ready to start growing

at the next wet season.

3. Drought Tolerance or Creative Adaptation: Plants have adapted to drought by many methods. Producing thick, leathery leaves cuts water loss and reflects heat from the plant. Small, thin leaves reduce surface area and hairy leaves shade and cool the plant.

Xeriscape – definition. A landscaping method developed especially for arid and semi-arid climates that utilize drought tolerant plants, mulch, and effective irrigation.

you choose drought tolerant, native plants for landscaping around your home, things are simpler. You don’t need to alter your soil and you water less. Start by observing what is growing around you: your neighbors’ yards, wild flowers in the ditches, and the Botanical Garden in Albuquerque. Books by Judith Phillips, a New Mexico landscape designer, are excellent. Select the plants for each area. Plan for a low growing ground cover, perennial and annual flowers, grasses, bushes, and trees. If you plant cacti or succulents, make sure there is ample walking area around them so people and children don’t get stuck. All plants benefit from having generous holes dug. Even though a lot of drought tolerant plants have tap roots,

Desert Marigold and Sand Sage

they need to put out roots around the plant to bring water from side roots. Instead of digging deep, go down only to the depth of the ball of roots. Loosening the soil several times the diameter of the pot will give the new roots easy access to moisture away from the plant. Mulch for drought tolerant plants usually consists of more rock. Crusher fine and granite chips cool the ground which is what the plant needs. (Save your wood chips for your water hungry plants that need organic matter in the soil and on top of the soil). Most drought tolerant plants need regular watering every week if temperatures are above 100 degrees. There are extreme drought tolerant plants that will need water for the first few months to develop a root system and then they sail though months of no water. They are the original camel-plants.

If you are like most people, you want more than native plants. Break down sections of your land to high water and low water use. Add your organic supplements to where you want your high-water plants and put a drip system down so you can water each separately These are just some of the tips for creating an attractive, low water, low maintenance yard. You can do it yourself or hire a landscaper on your whole yard or divide it into small manageable parts.

Edith Iwan is a Cibola-McKinley County Master Gardener who lives and works in Thoreau. As a Master Gardener she assists the County Cooperative Extension Service in providing accurate, research-based gardening information to county residents. If you have any gardening questions, please call the NMSU Cibola County Extension at 505-287-9266 or NMSU McKinley County Extension at 505-863-3432

NATALYA NEZ

Natalya Nez is a Diné (Navajo) multidisciplinary artist and edu Natalya is Tsi’naajinii (Black Streaked Wood) born for Dibé maternal grandfather is Tó’dích’iinii (Bitter Water) and her pa Tábąąhá (Water's Edge). Natalya was raised in several different Ramah-Navajo Reservation, Chichiltah and the Grand Canyon area. the local arts sector for several years serving as the Program County's arts council from 2017 to 2023. She has no formal trai graduated from UNM-Gallup with an associate’s degree in Human S In 2023, she decided to pursue her dream of being a full-time a time to create work for gallery shows, workshops, public art pr and around the Four Corners. She currently has work available i Albuquerque inside Native Boba Tea, in Window Rock at Marco Arv inside LOOM Indigenous Art Gallery for the month of April. For projects and markets follow her on Instagram at @pacotacorox.

Natalya grew up in a family of artists and creativity has alway Growing up and watching her parents create beadwork, carpentry, pottery had a great impact on her creative journey. As an only encouraged her to play, to draw, to discover, to explore the ou nourishment of child curiosity that has been invaluable to her exploring the world around, her she found a deep appreciation f and the beauty of simplistic moments of the everyday.

When it comes to artistic expression, she has found that her broad interests have led her to create an eclectic body of work in different mediums and artistry's such as painting, printmaking, photography, embroidery, beadwork, paper collage, digital design, illustration and teaching. Although she works in a variety of different media her approach and inspiration to her work remains the same. She takes inspiration from Diné Bikéyah (the lands around and on the Navajo Nation), her Diné culture, and her childhood growing up in New Mexico. Her goal as an artist is to inspire others to look for the extraordinary in the ordinary. She also uses art to address different social justice issues that are important to her. She has found that art can be a powerful catalyst for change and conversation.

ARTISIAN OF THE MONTH

Natalya's artwork is often a combination of different mediums a example, her paper collages are made using monoprints, hand car photographs and found images. For her paintings she largely u is adept at using watercolors and is currently learning to mast Some of her favorite past projects include winning First Place the "National Collage Society’s 26th Annual Small Format Exhibi work for New Mexico Cultural Affairs, the non-profit "Save Hist publication, "Leading the Way". Commissioned artwork for the Public Lands Interpretive Association and the El Malpais Conservation Ranger Station which can be viewed all-year round.

Her social justice artwork featured in the Navajo Nation Museum in the "Cause/Casuse" exhibit about the effects of the alcohol industry of border towns on Native communities and her curated show, "Faces of Tradition" last year at ART123 Gallery, which addressed concerns about the economic exploitation by the local Native arts market.

Her digital design work for the Gallup New Deal Virtual Museum that just recently launched which aims to unify Gallup's 156 pieces of New Deal artwork that aren't currently publicly accessible into a "virtual museum" that makes them available to the public. Demonstrations and workshops in different locations around the Four Corners including Canyon de Chelly National Monument, the Gallup Cultural Center, and just recently, Piñon Elementary, Current projects include a solo show at LOOM Indigenous Gallery on view for the month of April titled, "Oh! The Beautiful Things We'll See!" wh the changing of seasons" in both life and nature and looking fo next while still appreciating the quiet moments of now. She wil featured in the social justice art show at ART123 Gallery calle the Good, the Bad, and the Unseen" curated by another local art Natalya will also be debuting her first digital public art pro ArtsCrawl. The project is led by gallupARTs and presents public augmented reality. The project features six artists and to acce viewers will use their smartphones at different artwork locatio on site. Natalya's digital project titled, "Rusty Cars and Rez about what "home" means for location information. Please follow media pages on Instagram or Facebook.

APRIL

Tuesday, April 1

Paint & Sip: Grand Canyon w/ Watermelon Cinnamon Punch

6 - 9pm ART123 Gallery

Have a creative night out! $40/ person. Register at www.. galluparts.org/paint-sip

Saturday, April 12

Show Opening: Cultural Crossroads: The Good, The Bad & The Unseen by Guest Curator Jerry Brown

7 - 9pm ART123 Gallery

"This show is inspired by the need many of us see to start having the hard conversation

YES I DO!

I want a copy of God's message of strenth, hope and love. (Psalms and Proverbs). I understand there is no charge. IT IS FREE!

NAME:

ADDRESS: CITY: STATE: ZIP:

PLEASE WRITE CLEARLY

Allow A Few Weeks For Delivery

Mail to: PO BOX 2025 Gallup, NM 87305

that we often talk around but never get it out in the open. We can't heal deep wounds without exposing them. It is time to have uncomfortable conversations."

-Jerry Brown

Featuring: Jerry Brown, Christian Bigwater, Tasha Nez, Nalmerthan Pablo, Cherille Williams, AJ Murphy

Thursday, April 17

A Community Poetry Reading and Writing Event with Poet

Laureate Lauren Camp

6pm ART123 Gallery

Lauren will read a short selection of poems followed by a poetry open mic. The event will conclude with a crowdsourced community poem writing exercise. Free and open to the public! This event is sponsored by New Mexico Arts.

Wednesday, April 30

Paint & Sip: Waterlilies w/ Cranberry and Fruit Punch

6 - 9pm ART123 Gallery

Have a creative night out! $40/ person. Register at www.. galluparts.org/paint-sip

Friday, April 4th

6 – 9pm

FRIDAY NIGHT RIDES

Cars & Coffee

Season Opener: Silver Country Band

@Camille’s Café

306 S 2nd Gallup, NM

Saturday, April 12

Arts Crawl

Season Opener

7 - 9pm, On Coal Avenue in Historic Downtown Gallup

Saturday 26 April

9 am – 2pm.

Gallup Elks Lodge Presents the 2nd Annual Spring Craft Fair

Come browse and buy locally hand-crafted art and baked goods. Concession includes: Navajo Tacos and Frito Pie

Open to the public, no membership required

The Elks Lodge 1440, 1112

Susan AVE Gallup NM 87301

For more info vendors please contact

John: (505)-339-0723

Amanda: (505)-722-6486 olearyfamm@yahoo.com

SUNDAY

APRIL 27

2-4:30pm

Join us to celebrate the time and dedication of Doctors Kathy & John Mezoff as they bid farewell after 45 years in the Gallup Community. Come share in the memories, laughter and appreciation for their friendship and service.

Contacts: Judy 505-870-7158 (general info)

Katy 505-399-1823 (food) Leanne 928-245-4819 (decorations)

Add to the photo memory book: rebecca.mezoff@gmail.com

Bethany Church 1110

Strong Dr

April Events at the Octavia Fellin Public Library, Gallup Museum & El Morro Theatre

OFPL’s - Case for Understanding Club April 15th & April 29th | 5:00 PM Main Library, 115 West Hill Ave

Understanding the legal system and its impact on our daily lives is increasingly important. We offer a dynamic lecture series and discussion group led by Attorney David Eason that delves into historical legal foundations and modern-day applications, making complex legal topics accessible to all. Each session involves an in-depth exploration of key legal principles and insightful discussions on the laws shaping our society. Whether you're a student, professional, or simply curious about how the legal system works, this series offers an excellent opportunity to expand your knowledge in good company.

April 15th discussion will focus on Trump and the Unitary Executive Past Topics Include:

• The Amendments

• Property Law

• Contracts

• The President’s Role in Foreign Policy

• The Executive Order: Uses and Abuses

• The First and Fourth Amendments & Tech Censorship and Surveillance Handouts from previous lectures are available upon

request.

Call (505) 863-1291 for more information.

Preserving GoodnessHomemade Applesauce

Join OFPL and Patricia Largo from the NMSU Extension office at the Main Library on April 4th from 4:00 PM to 6:00 PM. Unleash your inner chef and create delicious applesauce! Join our introduction class at the library and learn about food preservation, alternative food storage and how to reduce food waste. Advanced registration is required—sign up now at https://ofpl.online/ Class is limited to 15 participants. Call (505) 863-1291 for more information.

Gallup Repertory Theatre at El Morro Theatre!

Join us at El Morro Theatre on April 4th at 7:00 PM, April 5th at 7:00PM and April 6th at 2:00 PM for "The importance of being Earnest" by Oscar Wilde. This farcical comedy depicts the tangled affairs of two young men about town who lead double lives to evade unwanted social obligations. Tickets:

$10 per person at the door For the full event lineup, visit www.elmorrotheatre.com.

A Minecraft Movie

Join us at El Morro Theatre for the opening of A Minecraft Movie on April 7th at 6:30 PM! A mysterious portal pulls four misfits into the Overworld, a bizarre, cubic wonderland that thrives on imagination. To get back home, they'll have to master the terrain while embarking on a magical quest with an unexpected crafter named Steve. Don’t miss this actionpacked cinematic adventure on the big screen! Tickets:$9 per person

$5 Fridays – Enjoy extra

savings!

Explore the full lineup of events at www.elmorrotheatre. com.

Poetry Writing Workshops for National Poetry Month

Join local writer and educator Ky George for poetry writing workshops this April in celebration of National Poetry Month. Explore your creativity, learn new techniques, and share your work in a supportive environment. Whether you're a seasoned poet or just starting out, these workshops are a great opportunity to connect with other writers and delve deeper into the craft of poetry.

• April 7th at 4:00 PM, young writers are invited to join us at the Children & Youth Library for a workshop aimed at kids and teens.

• April 22nd at 4:00 PM, adult writers are invited to join us at the Main Library for a workshop designed specifically for adults.

Call (505) 863-1291 for more information.

Picasso Babies: Baby & Toddler Art Time

Join us at the Children & Youth Library, on April 11th and April 25th, from 10:30 AM to 11:30 AM for a funfilled morning of creativity at Picasso Babies! This free program is designed for toddlers and their caregivers. It is a beautiful opportunity to explore the world through art.

Join experienced early childhood intervention therapists from The Therapy Academy, who will guide you and your little one in creating beautiful and unique pieces together. We hope to see you there!

Call (505) 863-1291 for more information.

UpcomingEvents

Bus Driver Appreciation Month

April Fool ’ s Day

GMCS Blood Drive

Easter

SEASON OPENER

GALLUP ARTS CRAWL

Saturday, April 12, 7 - 9 PM

On Coal Avenue in Historic Downtown Gallup

LOOM GALLERY PRESENTS OH THE BEAUTIFUL THINGS WE’LL SEE!

A show of mixed media art embracing the changing of the seasons by Tasha N.

ART123 GALLERY SHOW

OPENING: CULTURAL CROSSROADS: THE GOOD, THE BAD & THE UNSEEN - GUEST CURATOR JERRY BROWN.

MAKERSPACE

ARTSCRAWL FAMILY CRAFT: NEW DEAL NUEVOMEXICANO

PAPER CRAFT

Handcraft cards inspired by New Deal Nuevomexicano furniture designs to advocate for the General Services Fine Arts Program and the public value of public art!

Z-ART MUSEUM-GALLERY on Coal Avenue

Authentic Zuni Art Works

ODD-LAB FIRE WALKER PERFORMERS

FACELESS BAND

AT ARTSCRAWL

Join OFPL’s MakerSpace at ArtsCrawl! Creative makers are invited to join us at El Morro Events Center on April 12th from 7:00 PM to 9:00 PM. Celebration National Poetry Month by using our Makerspace equipment to design your own mini poetry writing journals. Call (505) 863-1291 for more information.

OFPL’S PLAYSPACE IS COMING TO ARTSCRAWL!

Join OFPL outside El Morro Events Center on April 12th from 7:00 PM to 9:00 PM. Get creative and build with Big Blue Blocks, they inspire children to design their own inventions, environments and activities. Enjoy classic games like chess, checkers, dominoes, cornhole, and ring toss, or try something different like badminton and shuffleboard! Draw with chalk and make giant bubbles. Call (505) 8631291 for more information.

CARICATURE PORTRAIT DRAWINGS BY LOCAL ARTIST RIC SARRACINO. DOZENS OF ART AND CRAFT VENDORS FOOD TRUCKS

Gallup Business Improvement District www.gogallup.com/events

Arts Crawl information

Text or call: 505-413-6359

Featuring: Jerry Brown, Christian Bigwater, Tasha Nez, Nalmerthan Pablo, Cherille Williams, AJ Murphy

DJ BENALLY

DYLAN VARGAS BLACK BELT BAND

UNM-Gallup opens new Native American Student Success Center

New director building program to be a student-centered space where all are welcome

Shynowah Bahe, seen in this Feb. 25, 2025, photo, is the new director of the Native American Student Success Center at The University of New MexicoGallup. Photos by Richard Reyes

By Richard Reyes

GALLUP, N.M. — The University of New Mexico-Gallup opened a new Native American Student Success Center and hired a director who wants to turn it into a student-centered space where Lobos can build community together.

Shynowah Bahe was hired as the director of the Native American Student Success Center on Nov. 12, 2024, and has been tasked with building the program from the ground up.

“My hope is just for students to feel a part of the community and part of the space,” Bahe said.

Bahe wants the center to be a place where students can hang out, access computers, grab a snack, get coffee or tea, and more.

Some of her ideas for events include a friendship prayer circle, semester kickoff breakfasts, positive affirmations with elders or alumni, a speaker series, and a Native American graduation ceremony.

Bahe wants to ensure it’s a student-centered space, however, so she plans to host a town hall for students to get feedback on what they’re looking for. She also hopes to hire student employees eventually to help organize activities.

The center is currently located inside Gurley Hall in the former Student Veterans Association space next door to TRIO/Student Support Services and the Student Resource Center.

Bringing people together from different backgrounds

UNM-Gallup established the center in the Fall 2024 semester after receiving a five-year, $3 million grant from the U.S. Department of Education’s Native American Serving Non-Tribal Institution program.

UNM-Gallup was designated as a Native American Serving NonTribal Institution in 2023.

As of the Spring 2025 semester, students who identify as American Indian and Native Hawaiian make up approximately 68% of UNM-Gallup’s student campus headcount.

Bahe said the center will be open and available to any students though.

“I think being present and comfortable and surrounding yourself with people who share the same beliefs is important,” she said. “That’s one of the things I hope for — to bring people from different backgrounds to share their knowledge.”

Bahe herself brings a wealth of knowledge to UNM-Gallup thanks to her experience working in the Office of Indigenous Student Success at Northern Arizona University.

She worked as the manager of student development and oversaw Indigenous peer mentors who helped organize 400 events throughout the academic year, including resume workshops, FAFSA filing nights, dodge ball games, and more.

Bahe hopes to bring a similar philosophy and mission to the Native American Student Success Center at UNM-Gallup with a focus on respect, responsibility, resilience and relationships.

“I tell students, ‘I have a job because of you, so how can I help you get through this process of college and what services can I provide and what services are you looking for to help you get through, whether it’s self-care or something else?’” Bahe said. “Especially with a place such as this one, I think it’s important to ask those questions to our students.”

“Why I do what I do”

Bahe is originally from Woodsprings, Arizona, on the Navajo Nation and currently resides there.

Part of the reason why she accepted the director position at UNMGallup was to be closer to home in order to help her parents and be more immersed in the Navajo language.

Bahe is Kinyaa’áanii (Towering House Clan), born for Yé’ii Dine’é Kiss’áanii (Kachina Clan - Hopi). Her maternal grandfather is Deeshchii’nii (Start of the Red Streak People Clan), and her paternal grandfather is Tábąąhá (Water’s Edge Clan).

She served in the U.S. Air Force for 12 years, and she was discharged as a technical sergeant in 2011.

The military is where her sense of service and passion for helping students came from.

“I just want to see them successful,” she said. “I want them to get where they’re trying to go. With what Indigenous people have been through, you just want that for them. That’s what really pushes me.”

Bahe holds an Associate of Applied Science in criminal justice from the Community College of the Airforce and a Bachelor of Science in sociology from the University of Oregon with minors in ethnic studies and Native American studies.

She is currently in the process of applying to graduate school to study data science.

Her educational journey was inspired by her parents, both of whom hold master’s degrees. Having such a strong support system growing up made her want to pay it forward through her work.

“I want to be a good ‘auntie’ who advocates for them and talks to them and makes them aware of opportunities that are out there for them,” Bahe said. “That’s why I do what I do.”

MUNICIPAL COURT

Exploring Viable Manufacturing Opportunities in Gallup, New Mexico

By Jason Arsenault, CPA LLC

Facing Gallup's Challenges

We have to start by acknowledging our challenges. Water supply is limited in our high-desert region, so we can’t support industries that guzzle water. Our workforce is modest in size, so massive factories needing thousands of workers aren’t practical here. These constraints mean any manufacturing in Gallup must be water-smart and labor-efficient. The good news is that several modern manufacturing niches meet those criteria.

Labor-Efficient, Water-Smart Manufacturing Ideas

Below are a few promising manufacturing sectors that local entrepreneurs could explore. These options use minimal water and don’t require huge labor forces. Each could begin as a small business venture and scale up over time:

- Renewable energy Components

- Electronics Assembly

- Sustainable Textiles

- 3D Printing & Additive Manufacturing

Gallup, Mexico,Newmay be small, but as the nation "Americaemphasizes First" manufacturing and productionbringingback home, our community has a chance to benefit. The key is to focus on realistic ventures that fit our local strengths limitations.and

Renewable Energy Components

A small 5 kW wind turbine, an example of renewable energy equipment that could be produced on a small scale. One promising option is making parts for solar panels and wind turbines. A Gallup workshop could assemble items like solar panel frames or small wind-turbine parts with very little water and only a handful of workers, supplying niche components for regional renewable energy projects.

Electronics Assembly

Small-scale electronics assembly (for example, building circuit boards or device components) uses almost no water and can run with a compact team. A local business might assemble electronics for solar power systems or medical devices. With a few trained technicians and basic equipment, Gallup entrepreneurs could create high-value products without a giant factory.

Making It Happen: Strategic Steps

Having these ideas is just the beginning. Here are steps the Gallup business community and local leaders can take to turn these possibilities into reality

Carving Gallup’s Own Path in Manufacturing

Gallup may never be an industrial metropolis, but it doesn’t have to be. Our community can succeed by carving out its own path in American manufacturing—starting small, staying smart, and focusing on what fits us best. By working together on these niche opportunities and supporting our local innovators, we can build a more diverse, resilient local economy. The national call to revive manufacturing is our call too, and Gallup has the creativity and determination to answer it in a unique way.

B u r i a l

S h

r o u d s

By Chuck Van Drunen

Tony Begay will look you in the eye and say without reservation, “We Diné, The Navajo People have given our traditional rights of burial away to the Anglos.” He doesn’t say it with anger or even sadness, but simply as a matter of fact. He calmly continues, “We would rather pay someone else to take care of our dead, because of the fear of recent Navajo taboos, but there is a deeper, older tradition that was common among us before the mortuaries came into the area.

In our area, Tony says “You will often hear funeral announcements on the Navajo radio stations, people asking for help, donations, as some families are even going through multiple deaths one after another; families that sometimes barely have enough money for groceries, let alone another funeral? There’s so much more emotion that lie beneath all that. Now a financial burden is another layer on top of what the family is going through. Some families have to sell their vehicles, tools, livestock, anything so they could get their loved ones buried.”

To help people in these burial matters Tony has

started a new business in Gallup, NM called “Sacred Journey Burial Shrouds.” He prefers to say his new business is a “calling” rather than just a business. In 2020 Tony was hospitalized with Covid, nearly killing him. When he recovered he suffered some brain damage from the after effects of the virus. Eventually he was offered a job in Las Vegas, Nevada to do concrete work on the new Raiders’s football stadium. He declined the job. Why? He simply says, “Spirit told me I had something else to do.”

That something else, was the creation of a burial shroud system that uses Pendleton blankets, a backboard, and a handle/strapping design. The burial shroud is a less expensive and more honorable alternative to mass manufactured coffins. Tony, however, also makes custom handmade caskets with local wood, and lined with Pendleton fabric. These two products he hopes will be more affordable and traditionally resonate options for Native peoples.

Just recently, Tony and his crew made their first casket and decided to donate it to a family in need. Anyone would think donating a casket would really help the funeral expenses, but instead the family was charged an extra $1000 just to be able to use their own casket. This made Tony realize that he not only needed to make burial shrouds and caskets, but to also offer burial rights as Native Americans. Tony hopes to create a ceremony, and manage the full burial process from start to finish for people.

“This is still developing, but I hope to help our local Native people find personal meaning, and family connection in ceremony. Again, we need to take back our traditional rights of honoring the deceased in our rightful way.”

Tony continues, “This is a hard process, because the taboos are so strong in our minds, but Spirit is guiding me to simply give people another option. You can choose to fear, or you can choose to move forward into our deeper tradition. I have no judgement on anyone’s choice, but my calling is simply to provide another option.”

While Tony hesitates to call himself a Medicine Man, he does he have the gift of “hand trembling”, and claims that the Spirit which talks to him in thoughts is his grandmother of four generations past who was a traditional Medicine Woman healer. Tony is fully aware that his new business may be considered controversial, but seems undeterred even going as far to legally patenting his shroud design, perhaps to keep western minded capitalists in check.

Tony hopes that by planting a seed of hope, “we can all come together and go back to taking care of our own loved ones when it’s their time to take their sacred journey, traditionally.” Tony even met with the Navajo Human Rights Commission in St. Michael’s where he obtained a copy of the burial rights which was written at a time when the people were actually practicing taking care of their own loved one’s death. Tony says “They knew no other way of funeral. I’m sure our ancestors and great elders didn’t know that we were going to forget about our own burial rights. Now it’s hurting the people financially. I am hoping everything will come together and we can start practicing our culture before it’s completely lost, but now with the way everything is going on in the world, this could be the perfect time to start something that the majority of us Diné didn’t know what we had.”

Tony believes some families still do practice the old original traditional funerals in a modern way, but most people don’t hear about it because it’s held sacred. He says “Other Native American tribes hold their loved ones funeral sacred from death to burial. Some tribes ask why us Navajos don’t do the same if we call ourselves traditional? So I think it’s time to wake up and take full responsibility for our burial rights as Native Americans.

So Tony Begay is taking a step of faith to help people in our area have another choice in deciding how that can be done. If you are interested in learning more about Sacred Journey Burial Shrouds LLC, give Tony a call at 505-979-1237, or on facebook at Sacred Journey Burial, or email him at naturallyanthony@ gmail.com. He’d be more than happy to help and hear your stories, and to especially listen to those who also have experience in the important work of traditional burial.

By Kenneth Riege USAF Veteran 1985 - 1993

“Integrity is when you do the right thing when no one is watching.”

Gallup's Very Own Veteran's Museum

While in almost all of my stories I either post a picture of or make reference to the displays at the Comfort Suites in Gallup. It’s interesting to me too when locals come out to the hotel and say, "They had no idea Gallup had something like this.” Therefore, I wanted to dedicate this story to the Veteran’s Museum at the Comfort Suites in Gallup and to invite anyone and everyone to stop by to see for yourself what’s on display here. Many of the displays were donated

Upon entering the Comfort Suites you will be greeted by this display which I call “The Hands of our Greatest Heroes.” This display is of just a few MOH Recipients ranging from WW2 to the Global War on Terror. Our dear friend Hershey’s hands can be found in the first column picture #5. You will also notice the 2 wreaths in the middle of the top row. My wife Retha made those for this display.

Across from this display you will find “The Battlefield Cross” which honors those who have fought for this great country of ours. Many of our guest have filled out dog tags that are available at the front desk and then placed here. Also in this picture is the display honoring Korean War MOH Recipient Father Emil Kapaun. Father Kapaun died in the POW Camps during the Korean War, but his remains were never returned until March 2021. He was laid to rest with full military honors in Sept. 2021.

by local veterans and family members of local veterans. Each display has a very unique story and it is always a great honor for me to share the stories of how the museum came about and how important each and every display is.

I won’t be able to provide a picture of every display in this story, but will give sort of a “Readers Digest” version and then leave it up to the readers to come out here to see the rest for yourself.

This display honors “Our Lady Warrior” US Army Specialist Lori Piestewa. Specialist Piestewa was the first Native American woman to die in combat while serving in the US Military and the first woman in the US Military killed in the Iraq War. Below Lori’s display are the plaques the Comfort Suites has received for being a part of the Annual Run For The Wall Event help each year in May.

This display was presented to the Comfort Suites by Vietnam Veteran and US Marine David Palomares. David has donated many items to the Comfort Suites Museum and so honored when he comes to visit. Behind this display is our flag line which consist of The American Flag, the New Mexico Flag, The POW/MIA Flag, The Medal of Honor Flag, The Purple Heart Flag and the KIA (Killed in Action) Flag. In many of the displays here are some combat boots that were decorated by Retha.

This display houses what has been said to be one of (if not the most) amazing collection of Medal of Honor Recipients Challenge Coins. At the very top of the display are a pair of boots that were donated by Vietnam War MOH Recipient Mr. John Baca that were also decorated by Retha. There are 2 MOH Neck Ribbons right below John’s boots. These were signed and donated by Hershey and John. The Comfort Suites in Gallup has been blessed with having 8 MOH Recipients staying at our hotel at one time or another.

As you enter the conference room you will see this beautiful quilt that was donated by US Marine David Palomares and honors our great Navajo Code Talkers. I have been truly blessed to have meet many of these great men and to have been called a friend.

The POW/MIA Flag was donated by

until all our brothers and sisters are

There are many pictures and items on display in the conference room which I have renamed “The Navajo Code Talker’s Conference Room.”

While certainly not the last display at the hotel, this will be the last picture of this story. These amazing drawings were donated by US Navy Medic Jon Nunn who’s picture is also include in this display second from the left in the top row. These drawing honor many different veterans from WW2 to the Global War on Terror and include one Medal of Honor Recipient.

Located just outside our elevator honors all those who were at Pearl Harbor on 7 Dec 1941. The 2 pictures on the table were donated by the Escamilla and Montano family and honor 2 Gallup Heroes Mr. Any Escamilla and Mr. Bernard Montano.

As you leave the Navajo Code Talker’s Conference room, you will see this display honoring the 369th Infantry Regiment AKA “The Harlem Hellfighters” of WW1.

Well, this will conclude this story and while I just touched on what is probably 100 or more displays here, I am truly honored to share these with the Gallup Journey Readers and again invite all to come out to see these and share any stories you may have. As I mentioned before many of the displays have been donated by veterans and family members and if anyone would like to donate an item I do promise you they will be displayed with the greatest respect and honor they are so deserving of.

I wondered what would be a good MOH Quote to go with this story. When I opened my MOH Quote book I found this from US Army MOH Recipient Charles Hagemeister (Vietnam).

“Integrity is when you do the right thing when no one is watching.”

I also wanted to share a little something as we are getting into our windy season and that is some flag etiquette. If you notice your flag whipping in the wind, please bring her down. I believe most would rather not see a flag flying then one that has been neglected and torn by the wind.

This display honors all our POW/MIA’s.

Hershey. This will remain

returned home to their families.

Hoodoo Mesa Fantastic Outdoor

By Bob Rosebrough

want to share a hidden secret with you. There is a spectacular mesa north of Red State Park. The mesa lies out of view to the north of the ridge line that extends east and west between Pyramid Peak and Church Rock. USGS maps don’t give the mesa a name, but it is designated as point 7236. I call it Hoodoo Mesa, given that the Mesa is festooned with cap rocks - large rocks

poised delicately on top of vertical rock columns.

There are no maintained trails, to Hoodoo Mesa, and there is only one old, sandy two track road that gives the mesa a wide birth. The best starting point for the 3.5 mile +/- round trip hike to Hoodoo Mesa is the trailhead for the Pyramid Rock trail (behind the Rodeo Stadium at Red Rock State Park). Stay on Pyramid Rock trail until you can see Hoodoo Mesa to the north and then leave the trail and aim straight for the Mesa once you spot it. You will have to hike

through a couple of east-west drainages before dropping into the valley that separates Hoodoo mesa from the ridge that extends from Pyramid Peak and Church Rock.

The huge south facing cliff on Hoodoo mesa has a distinctive vertical crack that separates the west 1/3rd of the cliff from the eastern 2/3rds of the cliff. Once you spot Hoodoo Mesa, I recommend that you head for the large cone like high point that partially obscures the eastern part of the mesa. From the high point, you get your first clear view of the cliff and the cluster of hoodoos on top of the mesa to the north. You will also get your first views of a cave like feature below on the eastern side of the cliff. At this point, drop down into the gully that separates the large cone and the cliff face on the eastern side of the wall.

As you drop down in the gully, you will spot a set of hand and foot holds that appear ancient. They are carved into the side of the mesa wall, leading to a small cave. I have been soloing each time that I’ve hiked to this point and haven’t tried to make the 25-foot climb up to the cave. I recommend that you take a partner, rocking climbing shoes, rope, and gear if you want to attempt it.

From the cave, hike over toward the crack in the mesa wall to the west. As you approach the crack, you will see a cluster of old dates and names carved into the cliff wall, which is like a smaller version of the carvings at El Morro. The vertical crack is a rectangular alcove about six feet in width that sores upward. From the crack hike to the SW corner of the cliff and then bushwack your way over rough terrain on the western side of the mesa to a sandy hill that leads to the summit and a field of Hoodoos. It’s a special place.

Note: Bob Rosebrough welcomes meeting and sharing information about Gallup area outdoor venues with both old timers and newcomers to Gallup. He can be reached at Rosebroughs@msn.com or 505-

People Reading People Reading

•Gallup: 606 E. Highway 66 505-722-3845

•Milan: 305 Airport Road 505-287-9454

Hand & Power Tools

O •Durango: 187 Bodo Drive 970-247-1854

•Cortez: 101 North Broadway 970-565-6547

2nd Annual

By Gabrielle Myers

On the evening of March 5th, 2025, at the El Morro Event Center, the 2nd Annual Music is Healing event was held and hosted by Rockin’ Life Suicide Awareness/ Prevention Initiative in collaboration with the City of Gallup Behavioral Health Resiliency in Communities After Stress and Trauma (ReCAST) program.

Watts Billie, the founder of Rockin’ Life Suicide Awareness/Prevention Initiative and suicide awareness advocate, was the event spokesperson for the evening providing information and resources about suicide awareness and prevention to the community while creating a safe space for community members to express themselves freely through mediums such as music, art, and talent.

The Rockin’ Life Suicide Awareness/Prevention Initiative partnered with the City of Gallup Behavioral Health ReCAST program to create a resource hub of information. From learning about health insurance to learning about how to manage our mental health, the information booths in attendance connected and supported individuals by offering information, answering questions, and encouraging belongingness by promoting upcoming workshops, classes, and events similar to the 2nd Annual Music is Healing.

The event was operated and supported by Watts and his family. Each family member worked in unison to create a safe space for anyone and everyone who walked through the doors of the event center. While Watts’ family worked together to welcome everyone, Watts radiated kind, authentic, and inviting energy to those who needed a space to express themselves, speak freely, and feel heard.

Before attending the event, I was nervous because I did not know what to expect. Nervous because this would be my first interview and my first article for the Gallup Journey. I felt the weight of expectations to get this article completed perfectly. Once walking through the doors, I felt that weight slowly drift away as I made my way through the information booths, saying ‘hi’ to old friends while making new connections, and learning about the upcoming events happening in Gallup. I soon made my way to the seating area to experience the performances. While seated, I had the great pleasure of experiencing several artists express themselves openly to a room full of strangers. “Wow, they’re so brave to talk about their mental health so freely”, I thought, “if they can be vulnerable in this space, I can be vulnerable as well”, and just like that... The weight of nervousness disappeared completely.

After the performances, I met with Watts to further understand his vision for Music is Healing and the Rockin’ Life Suicide Awareness/Prevention Initiative. Watts described his vision for Music is Healing as an event to celebrate throughout the reservations in the United States. Watts emphasized the focus of Music is Healing is empowering, inspiring, and motivating community members to express themselves to avoid internalizing and suppressing their emotions. Watts explained the Rockin’ Life Suicide Awareness/Prevention Initiative’s focus is to destigmatize mental health within Native communities and challenge suicide stereotypes.

Watts explained, “I want it [Music is Healing] to get bigger and bigger. I want others to take from the event... I want to inspire someone and empower them to do something on their own to help others.” When asked about Watts’ inspiration for the Initiative and Music is Healing event, Watts shared his personal narrative with addiction and negative mental health. “When I was 13, I began abusing substances and in high school I was depressed... suicidal. I started playing music when I was 14 and throughout my teens, I used music as a form of expression. I wrote songs about my depression and suicidal thoughts to cope.” Watts went on to describe how his mental health improved when he started taking care of himself physically, emotionally, and mentally by abstaining from alcohol, paying attention to his physical health, and strengthening his relationships with his loved ones.

Watts continued by describing how the Rockin’ Life Initiative can address destigmatizing and addressing the taboo surrounding mental health within Native communities. “There are a lot of stigmas out there that prevent expression... In the Navajo culture, they say you’re not supposed to talk about it [suicide] because you bring it upon yourself”, Watts explained, “you’re hiding a monster and when you talk about it, it’s going to open the doors, and you don’t want that in your life. I realized through expression you’re able to talk things out, put it out there, and it’s real. It’s not something we’re hiding.” Watts shared his excitement for a recent study indicating the suicide rate among Native Americans in New Mexico have decreased by more than 40% (Gilger, 2025). “The data comes from the New Mexico Department of Health, which reports that, among American Indians, suicides dropped 43% from 77 deaths in 2022, to 44 in 2023” (Gilger, 2025).

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) Data & Statistics Fatal Injury Report for 2022, retrieved May 11, 2024, in the United States, suicide is the 11th leading cause of death, 49, 476 Americans died by suicide, and an estimated 1.6 million suicide attempts were made. In 2022, the most recent data available, New Mexico had the fourth highest suicide rate (24.7 per 100,000 residents) in the United States (New Mexico Health, 2024).

Reviewing the data was incredibly difficult to process, but reminded myself of people like Watts, who are making a difference in their communities. Watts' vision and impact inspired me to believe in a future where people can manage their mental health, know when and how to reach out for support, and most importantly how to support each other.

Watts’ next anticipated event will be in March of 2026. If you have any questions about the next event or want to share your support with Watts, you can reach Watts at rockinlife.sap@gmail.com, 505879-9547, and on Facebook Rockin' Life Suicide Awareness/Prevention Initiative

By Amanda Spruell

“Whenever two good people argue over principles, they are both right.”

-Marie Ebner von Eschenbach

“Not to know is bad; not wishing to know is worse.”

-African Proverb

“In a word, I am always busy, which is perhaps the chief reason why I am always well.”

-Elizabeth Cady Stanton

“A little credulity helps one on through life very smoothly.”

-Elizabeth Gaskell

“Darling ideas are like chessmen moved forward; they may be beaten, but they may start a winning game.”

-Goethe

“Nothing astonishes men so much as common sense and plain dealing.”

-Ralph Waldo Emerson

“Use is the highest law of our being, and it cannot be disobeyed with impunity.”

-Lydia M. Child

“If a person has no delicacy, he has you in his power.”

-William Hazlitt

Our firm is accepting new cases in the areas of:

• Estate Planning

is pleased to announce that Grant L. Foutz has joined our firm.

• Probate

• Trust Administration

• Employment Law

• Real Estate

• Family Law

• Criminal Defense

• Auto Accidents

Mr. Foutz will be accepting cases in the areas of Real Estate, Family Law, Criminal Defense, Auto Accidents, and Personal Injury.

• Business Formation

• Personal Injury

Our Firm is also accepting cases in the areas of Estate Planning, Estate/Trust Administration, Employment Law, and Business Formation.

101 W. Aztec Ave., Suite A Gallup, NM 87301 505-722-9121 www.rf-lawfirm.com

101 W. Aztec Ave., Suite A Gallup, NM 87301 505 722-9121 lawfirm.com

musicians of the month

mr. & mrs. pat & tony neff

“probably the vIolIn because … I started an orchestra from scratch and buIlt It up to 65 students. the kIds really seemed to enjoy It”.

- Pat Neff

By Gabrielle Myers

Pat and Toni Neff are Gallup’s musical power couple! Toni and Pat have been residing in Gallup, New Mexico for the past 35 years where they have made a name for themselves through their love for music.

Pat, a music educator and an award-winning songwriter, and Toni, a music educator and board-certified music therapist, have created a music legacy in the Gallup community.

Pat was born and raised in Oklahoma and attended Southwestern Oklahoma State University where he obtained a bachelor's in music education and master's degree in instrumental pedagogy, and most importantly, met and married Toni. Pat is knowledgeable and accomplished in playing guitar, banjo, and percussion. Pat shared after he graduated with his master’s degree, he moved to Gallup, NM in 1989 and began his career as a band director at Wingate High School for the next 34 years.

Pat shared, “I taught music for 34 years at Wingate High School and I directed an award-winning band, an orchestra, and a guitar program”. Curious, I asked what instrument Pat’s favorite was to teach, he replied, “Probably the violin because ... I started an orchestra from scratch and built it up to 65 students. The kids really seemed to enjoy it”. When Pat was not teaching music to the youth, he was sharing his love for music by performing in numerous festivals, symphonies, showcases, bands, orchestras, and local music events. Throughout Pat’s career he won various awards for his songwriting, and gained many, many friendships.

Toni was born in California and attended Southwestern Oklahoma State University in Weatherford, Oklahoma where she earned a bachelor's degree in music education with an emphasis in music therapy. Toni served as the Executive Director of the Gallup Community Concert Association and on other community nonprofit organization’s boards to help to keep music as a part of the Gallup scene. Before founding the Nizhoni Music and Wellness Studio, Toni worked as a band director in Texas.

After her marriage to Pat, she was a music therapist and community services coordinator for the McKinley Area Services for the Handicapped, then a band director at Gallup High School and Kennedy Middle School. Later, Toni started the music therapy program for the Gallup Mckinley County Schools (GMCS) and continued to work with GMCS for a total of 13 years. In 2008, Toni started her private practice, Nizhoni Music and Wellness Studio, and has since started the elementary music program at the Hozho Academy, and helped Gallup and surrounding communities heal through music therapy.

The Nizhoni Music & Wellness Studio uses music, and it’s many holistic aspects to assist clients in developing, rehabilitating, and maintaining optimal health, functioning, and well-being throughout the course of life” (The Nizhoni Music and Wellness Studio, 2025). Together, Pat and Toni have performed in numerous music events over the years. The Neff’s have participated in several hootenanny’s, an informal gathering with folk music and dancing, and open mic nights at Camille's Sidewalk Cafe over the past 17 years. They have also collaborated with local bands and played benefits alongside community awareness groups to inspire others to get involved in their community.

When asked about Gallup’s current music community, Toni said, “since the pandemic, a lot of music died and has not come back again”. “But I feel it’s about to. I think people need that social interaction. I hope it [music] does [come back]”, Patrick added hopefully. Due to the pandemic, many social events in Gallup seemed to have decreased, but our community is resilient. Pat and Toni highly encourage our community members to attend and support local music events, stay social, and learn new skills such as playing an instrument.

Pat affirmed although he retired at the end of the 2023-2024 school year, he is looking forward to participating in more music events… especially within the Gallup area. Toni shared she looks forward to helping more individuals to heal through music in the coming years. If you were inspired by the Neff’s story, I don’t blame you! Feel free to contact Toni with your music endeavors, questions about music therapy, and consultation inquires at toni@nizhonimusic.com or call 505-862-3939.

Flexing Femineity while

still being

a Boss Lady

Tulle, Organza, and Chiffon

Nicole Phelps is an American Beauty Queen from Colorado Springs and she explained this concept perfectly, “You don’t have to renounce your strength to be feminine.”

I find this to be an incredibly empowering statement. Especially growing up in this area, women are often made to feel weak or even “lame” if they like to wear dresses and pink. At least, that has been my experience. But I can gather firewood, stack it, dig trenches, get my hands dirty, and the next day (or even a few hours later), it looks like I am about to hit the runway. It's not all just black and white— you can absolutely do both. Don’t let others dictate your taste or box you in based on their limited, surface-level observations. You’re far too dynamic for that.

Anyway, rant over. This spring, expect to see ethereal styles with cascading silks and interesting silhouettes with chiffon, tulle, and organza. What is really great about these soft, billowing textured materials is that they pair well with opposing materials (dense materials, i.e., jeans, corduroy, sneakers, and more!) This offers a more balanced approach to styling if you don’t want to necessarily look like a fairy; if you do, that’s great, too!

If you want to embrace the silky layered top but don’t want to be “too fancy,” you can always pair it with jeans and ballet flats. For the organza dress, you can wear it over some trousers with sneakers! Wear your favorite button shirt with a semi-sheer skirt. And so much more!

Spring 2025 FashionMonthly

2025 Spring theme in fashion is a “dedication to the softness of a woman’s inherent power.”

-Cortne Bonilla is Vogue.com's senior shopping writer

Chiffon:

•Texture: Soft, flowing, and sheer with a subtle sheen.

•Feel: Can feel slightly rough and slippery.

•Drape: Drapes beautifully, making it ideal for creating ethereal and romantic looks.

•Uses: Dresses, scarves, eveningwear, and layering.

•Materials: Made from silk, polyester, or nylon fibers.

Tulle:

•Texture: Lightweight, net-like, and can be stiff or soft.

•Feel: Can feel crisp or soft depending on the type.

•Drape: Drapes well, but not as flowing as chiffon.

•Uses: Bridal wear, formal gowns, veils, and tutus.

•Materials: Made from silk, cotton, or nylon.

Organza:

•Texture: Crisp, stiff, and transparent.

•Feel: Stiffer than chiffon or tulle.

•Drape: Provides structure and volume to garments.

•Uses: Bridal gowns, formal wear, decorative elements, and layering.

•Materials: Made from silk, polyester, or nylon.

The Semi-Sheer Skirt

The Organza Dress

Wear shorts underneath like jeans or even patterned shorts. You can even wear slim pants underneath! This skirt goes well with a basic T-shirt, or you can dress it up with a button up.

This asymmetrical handkerchief cut flows and drapes beautifully on any type of figure. It can be styled is so many ways! Super comfortable too.

The

The Silk Blouse

Bold patterns, psychedelic colors, and unconventional designs became popular, and the Christmas sweater was no exception.

Chiffon

Mini Dress

Wear it with tights: classic, or edgy (e.g. polka dots, stripes etc.), skinny jeans, semi wide legged trousers for a more laid-back look.

The Billowy Cape

The Billowy Cape Be the low-key superhero you truly are in this cape shirt! Flit, swoosh and fly through your day. Wear it with jeans, linen pants, pleated trouser and flip-flops for an elegant yet summary casual feel.

Brand & Image: Distrubia

KID'S CORNER Sharks!

Fun Facts About Sharks!

Smallest: Dwarf Lanternshark - 17 centimeters (about 6 ½ inches - about the size of a banana!)

Largest: The Whale Shark - 50 feet! (about the size of a school bus!)

Falling coconuts (about 25 per year) kill more people than shark attacks (about 5 per year)

Sharks have several rows of teeth. The back rows lay flat until the front row loses a tooth, then the next row comes to fill in the gap! They can lose over 30,000 teeth in their lifetime, and they never get cavities!

Some swimsuits are designed to mimic shark skin!

Sand Tiger Pups eat their brothers and sisters in their mom’s womb before they are born! Only the strong survive!

Sharks have a sixth sense. They can sense electrical stimuli! It helps them find prey like stingrays!

Sharks do not make any sounds. They don’t have any vocal cords!

Sharks look smooth, but their skin feels like sandpaper!

Due to technical difficulties, submissions from previous months are not included. Please re-submit. Please accept our deepest apologies. Give us a call at (505)488.2291

KIDS! YOU CAN SHARE YOUR WORK IN THE JOURNEY! Cut on the dotted line and send your artwork to: 210 E. Aztec Gallup, NM 87301

Email: gallupjourney@gmail.com Call 505-488-2291 with any questions! WE LOVE TO SEE YOUR TALENT! (NO AWARDS)

April Class Schedule:

Eleanor Burns, Log Cabin Quilt Saturday April 5th 9-4pm $45

The “Log Cabin” design dates back to pioneer days and is one of the most popular quilting patterns By turning the log cabin blocks in different directions, many looks can be created The blocks are made with easy assembly-line sewing techniques and updated tools Instructor: Jean Bitsui Level: Confident Beginner

Log Cabin Pineapple Paper Piecing, Saturday April 19th 9-4pm $45

Class #2 Foundation Paper Piecing Made with multi colored blocks This will be a mini quilt 13 5 x 13 5 Instructor: Laura Anderson Level: Intermediate

Open Sew & Embroidery, Saturday April 26th 9-5pm $5

Come use the classroom and work on those unfinished projects or get a jump start for Christmas 2025. Gather and mingle with some new friends

We operate as a small mom and pop business that offers sales and repairs of vacuum cleaners and sewing machines, along with a large selection of quality fabrics and sewing supplies. We’ve served Gallup, NM and the surrounding areas for 32 years.

"They have a variety of Fabrics quilting classes, parts and service for sewing machines and vacuum cleaners! If you can't find what you need they will do they're best to special order for you." -Happy Customer Google Review

Navajo Sovereignty

Navajo Sovereignty D a y

APRIL 28, 2025

No School