August 2021 Gallup Journey Magazine

gallup

Jo u r n e y The Free Community Magazine

2021 August #205 Look Inside for the Official Gallup Inter-Tribal Ceremonial Association Guide

INTRODUCING THE ALL NEW AT4 GMC LINEUP RISE TO THE CALL OF ADVENTURE IN THE FIRST EVER GMC AT4 LINEUP. CAPABILITY THAT’S READY TO TAKE YOU TO PLACES YOUR BOUNDLESS SENSE OF ADVENTURE CAN IMAGINE. 220 S. Fifth St., Gallup, NM 87301 | 505-722-2271 | www.ricoautocomplex.com

AUGUST CITY UPDATE

FREE CONCERT SERIES The Gallup Mainstreet Arts & Cultural District and City of Gallup are proud partners is producing the 2021 Levitt AMP Gallup Music Series. This music series features a diverse set of artists that will perform music spanning genres from country to reggae at the El Morro Theatre each Thursday evening at 7:00 pm from August 12 to September 23. So grab your family, friends and neighbors and get ready to enjoy the music either in-person or online.

The line-up for this year’s concert series features: 8/12: Felix y Los Gatos (Albuquerque, NM) 8/19: Alice Wallace (Nashville, TN), along with several other acts and a Gallup Ceremonial tv special watch party 8/26: Jesse Daniel (Austin, TX) 9/02: Lindy Vision (Albuquerque, NM) 9/09: Levi Platero Band (Navajo Nation) 9/16: Wildermiss (Denver, CO) 9/23: Reviva (Albuquerque, NM)

The concerts are free and attendees will be admitted on a first come first serve basis. Concerts will also be live-streamed on Facebook and YouTube @gallupmainstreet and broadcast on 91.7 FM KGLP on the Saturday following the concert.

“The El Morro Theatre is excited to finally be welcoming people into the theatre for live performances!” says Everett Homer, manager of El Morro Theatre & Events Center. “We have enhanced cleaning and added easy accessible hand sanitizer stations in the building. Know that we are working hard to ensure your safety when you are here. We look forward to seeing everyone and we hope that you all enjoy the performances!”

The Levitt AMP Gallup Music Series is supported in part by the Mortimer & Mimi Levitt Foundation, a private foundation that partners with towns and cities across America to activate underused public spaces, creating thriving destinations where people of all ages and backgrounds come together through the power of free, live music. In 2021, free Levitt concerts will bring a broad array of musical experiences and high-caliber artists to communities nationwide. Learn more at levitt.org.

CITY RECEIVES GRANT SUPPORT The City of Gallup Fire Department, Tourism Department, Behavioral Health, and Keep Gallup Clean and Beautiful programs have received grants this past month to support a variety of initiatives that are beneficial to the community.

The Gallup Fire Department received a Fire Prevention Grant from FM Global to purchase fire prevention education materials. FM Global has awarded millions to fire departments and related agencies worldwide over the past 40 years with the shared philosophy that the majority of property loss is preventable, not inevitable, and that a difference can be made in preventing the frequency and severity of fire. Additionally, the Fire Department received an award from the New Mexico Department of Health for Local Systems Improvement. This award will allow the department to enhance the CPR program with new training manikins.

The Gallup Tourism Department received a Cooperative Marketing Grant from the State of New Mexico Tourism Department. This grant matches the City’s funding application at 67%, meaning that the City’s marketing commitment is matched more than 2 to 1 in marketing services and purchases by the state. These funds will be used to amplify and manage tourism related social media, purchase digital advertising, boost the Google presence of the tourism website, and advertise in Route Magazine.

The FY2022 Law Enforcement Assisted Diversion (LEAD) budget allocates a total of up to $200,000 for the City of Gallup to operate a LEAD Program. LEAD is a pre-arrest diversion program, rooted in harm reduction, in which police officers divert individuals to intensive case management in lieu of arrest for low-level non-violent crimes driven by substance use disorder and other unmet behavioral health needs. The contract for this program began July 1.

Keep Gallup Clean and Beautiful received an award from the State of New Mexico Keep New Mexico True Grant program. This grant will allow the local board to purchase clean up supplies, recycling bins, reusable bags to discourage plastic bag waste, beautify landscaping, and support youth employment for community clean up and beautification initiatives. This is the sixth year the City of Gallup has received funding from this program.

Mayor Louie Bonaguidi Councilor Linda Garcia Councilor Michael Schaaf Councilor Yogash Kumar Councilor Fran Palochak

EACH OF US DEFINES ALL OF US. WHAT MAKES US DIFFERENT MAKES US STRONG—AND A FORCE TO BE RECKONED WITH. Here at UNM-Gallup, we are a community of unique perspectives respecting and embracing our differences. We are a culture of contrast rather than a contrast of culture, unafraid to let our colors run and blend. We let the very things that divide us become the things that connect us to each other, so that we can create, collect, and be inspired by knowledge—about everything from nursing and construction technology to fine arts, liberal arts, and business.

DISCOVER MORE AT GALLUP.UNM.EDU. FALL SEMESTER BEGINS AUGUST 23RD.

@UNMGALLUP

NOW OPEN SMALL BUSINESS RECOVERY LOAN FUND The New Mexico Legislature recently expanded the Small Business Recovery Loan Fund to better help businesses experiencing financial hardship caused by the pandemic.

More businesses are now eligible to apply for a loan, the loans have more favorable and flexible terms, and businesses that received a Small Business Recovery Loan in 2020 can refinance for a longer term or a bigger loan.

Please note that this is a loan program, not a grant program.

For information, please go to: https://www.nmfinance.com/smallbusiness-economic-stimulus-and-recovery Advertisement paid for by Gallup BID, Inc.

Thoughts From The West End Friendship

When you’re a kid, making friends comes easy. Especially, 30 plus years ago, when your parents told you to go outside and play. Growing up in Indian Hills my elementary crew was four of us from the neighborhood. When we started getting bused to JFK Middle School our circle of friends grew as we were introduced to the guys from Mossman and the Northside.

Once you have some wheels and in high school you meet even more. These early friendships are strong bonds and you really get to know each other. You always seem to be together and share several milestones together. If you are lucky enough to live in the same place during your school years, you get the opportunity to create those lifetime friendships. Those relationships where you can go years without seeing each other and when you meet again, it is like you just saw them yesterday. As we grow older and start to have families and careers, we seem to lose that ability to develop strong friendships.

Maybe we don’t feel as comfortable sharing all the things going on in our lives. I find myself wishing that I had those friend networks I did when I was kid. Someone to grab a quick lunch with, take a bike ride, or just hangout. In parts of Italy where it is common to have people live to 100 years old and beyond, they attribute it to strong relationships. So, give yourself a little free time to work on making friends and enjoy the benefits of having these special people in your life.

Jpa 6

August 2021

The Ancient Way Café El Morro RV Park and Cabins

The Ancient Way Café is preparing to reopen in August We are fi fin nishing our kitchen remodeling and only await two more inspections.

Back in August!

Once open we will resume last year’s hours of operation - Thursdays through Sundays from 9 am to 5 pm. Watch for an announcement on our sites or call 505-783-4612 to make sure we are open.

Our Sculpture Trail is highly appreciated for its art and its peace.

It is a great time to get away and get back to nature.

Our lively community is coming back into swing again. We are cautiously resuming our attractions of amazing entertainment, shopping, and gatherings of love.

El Morro RV Park, Cabins & Ancient Way Café elmorro-nm.com • elmorrorv@gmail.com • 505-783-4612 Near mile marker 46 on Hwy 53, one mile east of El Morro National Monument Entrance

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.

July Master Finishers Ironfist Doma Sara Landavazo E Skeet Duane Yazzie Charley Benally Rocky Alberta B. Toni Pino Tyrone Jerry Ana Thomas Gomez Michelle Wilson Maureen Bia

Kelly Arendsen Hilda Garcia AJ Mitch DJ & Footies Steve Mahnke Mary Allison Pauline J Peshlakai R Morris Elmer Williams Valerie Barker Christina Ashley Todd & Alisha W. Nora Gray N.T.N.

Contents

54

People Reading

56

Event Calendar

16

West by Southwest Ernie Bulow

60

Virtual Challenge

21

Walking in Beauty Marissa Morgan MPH-HBHP Graduate Student, NMSU

62 Treasure

23-46 The 99th Gallup Inter-Tribal

Indian Ceremonial Association Guide

Thanks to our Contributors this month:

Publishers:

Ernie Bulow

Managing Editor:

Kenneth Riege Marissa Morgan MPHHBHP Graduate Student, NMSU

Daisy & Jason Arsenault Chuck & Jenny Van Drunen Aileen Steigerwald

64 Life Is Too Short To Just Wear Black Socks Kenneth Riege 66

Do you have a cool local story you want to share with the Journey?

Send your story to gallupjourney@gmail.com

Staff: Christine Carter

Milan Sklenar Memory

Gallup Journey Magazine 505-722-3399 210 E. Aztec Ave. PO Box 2187 gallupjourney.com gallupjourney@gmail.com

Don’t want to miss an issue, subscribe to the Gallup Journey - one year $45.

August 2021 Issue #205 All Rights Reserved. No articles, photos, illustrations, advertisements, or design elements may be used without expressed written permission from the publisher, Gallup Journey Inc. This publication is distributed with the understanding that the information presented is from many sources, for which there can be no warranty or responsibility by the publisher as to accuracy, originality, or completeness. It is distributed with the understanding that the publisher is not engaged in making product endorsements, recommending health care or treatments, providing instruction, or recommending that any reader participate in any activity or behavior described in the publication. The opinions of the contributors to this publication belong to them and do not reflect the opinions of the editors or publishers.

Easy

Front Cover: Courtesy of Artist Al Bahe, Crownpoint, NM Photos in Ceremonial Guide Courtesy of Vanessa Tom Photography

Evil

August 2021

7

Every Friday In August 4-8pm

GALLUP CULTURAL CENTER

201 E Hwy 66, Gallup, NM 87301

Strength.

Strength.

Spirit.

Spirit.

Tradition.

Tradition.

This is the heart of every local, This is the sharing theheart spiritofofevery New local, Mexico. sharing the spirit of New Mexico. nmpinnbank.com nmpinnbank.com

20_NM_COMMUNITY_BOYHELDUPFAMILY_10375x1325.indd 1

7/29/20 3:16 PM

& Speed Training

WE WILL HELP YOU GET READY FOR THOSE FALL ACTIVITIES!

Welcome Back!

Check with your child’s school for any updates, school bus pick up and drop off hours and locations to be ready for the new year!

99.1 KGLX 99.9 KXTC 106.1 KFMQ – ROCK 106

iHeartMEDIA

1632 South Second Street, Gallup Office and Sales 505-863-9391 505-863-9393 fax

LET US HELP YOU IN 2021 REACH YOUR PEAK HEALTH! IF YOU ARE TIRED OF BEING IN PAIN AND OUT OF SHAPE , WE CAN HELP. WE HELP PEOPLE RETURN TO FUN, RECREATION, WORK, FITNESS, AND NORMAL LIFESTYLES! LET’S MAKE LIFE PAIN FREE FOR YOU IN 2021!

Enchantment Physical Therapy

505-863-4199

8 to 5 Monday • 8 to 8 Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday • 8 to 5 Friday 1900 East Highway 66 Suite A in Butler’s Square

NAVAJO OWNED!

• Customer Service • Sports Medicine • Pain Specialists • Movement Specialists • Strength Training • Neurological Rehabilitation • Functional Retraining • Education • Gym Memberships • Athletic Training • Speed Training Call about Human Performance for strength training, cardiovascular fitness, and speed training. Call to set up Physical Therapy evaluation and treatment!

LET US HELP YOU!

Patients have the right to choose their Physical Therapy Provider!

WE ACCEPT: Medicaid, VA, BC/BS, Tricare, Presbyterian, Summit, Navajo Nation, Worker’s Compensation, AHCCCS, Auto, and many other insurances.

10

August 2021

Summer is fly fl ying by!

Call early for reservations!

863-DOGS

Gizmo

* It's about the DOGS!* • Dog and Cat Boarding • Indoor/Outdoor Kennels • Fully fenced exercise area to potty and play!

• Dog Grooming Visit us at www.laughingdogkennel.com 105 Dean Street, of f Route 66

Contact Us Today For A Free In-Town Estimate

500 East Coal Avenue 505-863-3546

Plumbing Heating Air Conditioning

Financing on approved credit horizon-hvac.com

FAMILY TALK ABOUT DRINKING

BACK TO SCHOOL SPECIAL BULLETIN BOARD AIDS REPRODUCIBLE BOOKS & SOUTHWESTERN AND NATIVE AMERICAN BOOKS

“STAY INVOLVED IN THEIR LIVES TO

“

PREVENT

UNDERAGE DRINKING!

-MJ CORCORAN PARENT COACH

15% OFF.

Parents are the number one influence on teens’ decisions about drinking alcohol.* Learn how to be a positive influence in your child’s life.

Good through September 30, 2021 © 2015 ANHEUSER-BUSCH, ST. LOUIS, MO

*SOURCE: 2015 GFK ROPER YOUTH POLL, CONDUCTED USING GFK’S WEEKLY OMNIWEB STUDY.

.

August 2021

Brand: Bud Item #: PCA20151383

Closing Date: 7.15.2021

Job/Order #: 324421 QC: cs

MUST INITIAL FOR APPROVAL

PO:

Pub: Gallup Journey PM:

AM:

AD:

Trim: 4.6" x 5.9 " Bleed: none"

CD:

Live: 4.25" x 5.55"

CW:

QC:

11

ELITE LAUNDRY 208 E. Highway 66 505-863-9543

MEET THE ELITE TEAM - ONE GREAT COMPANY - YOUR ONLY LOCALLY OWNED BROADCAST SERVICE - RELY ON US FOR LOCAL NEWS, SPORTS, PERSONALITIES AND GREAT MUSIC

505.863.6851

12 August 2021

300 WEST AZTEC, SUITE 200

GALLUP, NM 87301

Shop At Gallup’s Favorite Little Liquor Store for Wine, Craft Beer and Spirits Carry Out • Delivery • Pick-up

Buffalo Wings

Artichoke Dip

Packaged Liquor and Lounge are Now Open on Sundays 10am to 6pm Rocket Liquor Store 1717 S. 2nd Street 505-863-3172

Rocket Café 1717 S. 2nd Street 505-722-8972

August 2021

13

Rehoboth Christian School

20 21

Enrollment

20 22

Online Applications Open

Supportive teachers, counselors, and chaplain.

Engaging opportunities that benefit the whole child.

Diverse student body: 78% Native American, 22% Anglo & Other Ethnicities 75% of students receive an average of $4,000 in tuition assistance.

Learn more at www.rcsnm.org

Contact us for more information:

505.863.4412 14 August 2021

1254 NM-53 • Zuni, NM 87327 General Store Hours: Monday-Friday 7:00 am - 8:00 pm Saturday 9:00 am - 8:00 pm

Proudly Serving Starbucks and Daily Specials Eat & Go Hours: Orders Can Be Placed Monday-Friday 10:30 am – 7:30 pm Saturday Noon - 7:30 pm

Ways to Order & Pay Ahead 1 Clover App 2 Scan QR 3 Website www.clover.com/ online-ordering/ major-marketinc.-zuni

Make Zuni Part of Your Ceremonial Visit August 2021

15

LITTLE NO SHIRT A DYNASTY OF ARTISTS A DOZEN MONIKERS

the text. At any rate she teamed up with an adolescent boy to produce Spin a Silver Dollar: The Story of a Desert Trading Post.

It must have been heavy stuff to be a book illustrator when he was not yet in his teens. They turned out another book called Paint the Wind which solidified his place in Native American Art. According to his biography, he enlisted in WWII as one of the elite Code Talkers—Navajos who used their language to baffle the Japanese in the Pacific.

He would have been only fifteen. It is startling to find how many Natives served—including several famous artists. Ironically it would be a Japanese artist at Mills College in 1947 who gave his work more sophistication.

Jimmy Toddy won awards at every Native American venue. He is included in every major book on

JIMMY TODDY AND HIS WIFE

T

he artist known as Little No Shirt (19282012) was a genuine child prodigy, selling paintings at the age of twelve. They say his first sale of twenty paintings netted $11.

The following year, this youngster had his first oneman show held in La Jolla, California. At least two major newspapers published articles about the boy wonder.

Around 1940 a lady named Alberta Hannum came to the Wide Ruins Trading Post to spend some time and study trading. It is not clear if the drawings of Beatin Yazz prompted the book, or if she already had

THIS WAS THE SUBJECT MATTER EXPECTED BY ANGLOS IN THE EARLY DAYS.

Ernie Bulow

WEST BY SOUTHWEST

the subject including the significant work by Dorothy Dunn, who taught art at the Indian School in Santa Fe. She wanted her Native artists to produce “traditional” art. It apparently never occurred to her that before the war there had been almost no art in the Anglo mode. She encouraged Beatin Yazz—as Jimmy Toddy—would have a total of twelve children, most of them artists. His four eldest sons became notable painters, winning a ton of ribbons from Gallup

ON THE WAY TO THE CEREMONY

THE FIRST BOOK BY THE CHILD ARTIST THIS PIECE IS VERY MUCH IN THE SCHOOL OF DOROTHY DUNN

JIMMY TODDY’S BIOGRAPHY. THEERE WAS A LIMITED EDITION INCLUDING AN ORIGINAL PAINTING.

ernie

THIS YAZZ PEN AND INK DATES TO THE SIXTIES. MONSTER SLAYER IS IN FRONT OF THE EYE OF THE MONSTER. HORNY TOAD GAVE HIM ARROWS FROM HIS BODY TO HELP. THE PIECE IS RATHER ABSTRACTED.

MOTION IS IMPORTANT IN THIS PAINTING.

Inter-Tribal Ceremonial. Their art is considered realistic, and center on the Navajo Reservation. The most famous are Calvin and Marvin. Sadly, Marvin has already passed.

THE DYNAMIC IMAGERY CAME LATER. THE FIRST PICTURE OF HIS I EVER SAW WAS A FIRE DANCER, BUT LESS ABSTRACTED THAN THIS ONE

PAINT THE WIND.JIMMY TODDY’S SECOND NAVAJO BOOK

We carry a huge selection of Name Brand Instruments, Guitars, Drum Sets, ProAudio, Keyboards, Standard of Excellence & Essential Elements books, Reeds, Mouthpieces, Cleaning Kits, PPE Supplies AND SO MUCH MORE!

NO CREDIT CHECK FINANCING AVAILABLE! 90 DAYS SAME AS CASH! Band rentals available upon request.

August 2021

19

The Journey is Excited Ceremonial is Back!

Photo courtesy of Vanessa Duckett

20

August 2021

Walking in Beauty

Little hands cooking Marissa Morgan MPH-HBHP Graduate Student, NMSU

T

This past summer Office of Diné Youth Ft. Defiance agency offered a 7-week kid’s kitchen cooking class. Kids Kitchen is such a wonderful youth cooking program that is offered through New Mexico State University Cooperative Extension, Ideas for Cooking and Nutrition (NMSU-ICAN) program. Students from all over joined the free class and learned so much about kitchen safety, healthy recipes, planning and of course, cooking! ICAN is funded by federal grants to provide nutrition education.

ICAN classes can help your students: -Eat a variety of foods -Eat more whole grains, vegetables and fruits -Be more physically active -Maintain a healthy weight

ICAN Recipe:

Sunflower Spinach Chard Power Salad

Prep time: 15 minutes Serves: 8 Serving size: 1/2 cup

Utensils needed: Colander, measuring cup, knife, cutting board, large mixing bowl, mixing spoon Ingredients: 2 cups of Swiss chard leaves, thinly sliced 2 cups of baby spinach 1/3 cup of balsamic vinaigrette dressing 1/3 cup of roasted sunflower seeds, lightly salted *Optional: 1/3 cup of dried cranberries Directions: 1. Wash your hands and clean your cooking area.

2. Rinse the chard leaves and pat them dry.

3. Cut away and discard the stems. Cut the leaves into 1/4-inch slices.

4. Place the baby spinach in a colander and run water over it. Drain it and pat it dry.

5. In a large mixing bowl, combine all the ingredients. Toss the salad gently.

Learning to cook helps students find out about nutrition, food choices and the benefits of cooking at home. Parents joined in on Zoom sessions and helped their child prepare a meal for the whole family. During this pandemic, it has brought light to many new hobbies that people are learning. Some of those hobbies include making new home recipes. I challenge you to get your kids involved in the kitchen!

Let them make a meal for the whole family and watch their confidence boost!

3 Reasons to cook with your students: -Cooking together provides quality family time -Cooking expands their palates -Following a recipe teaches math & reading Kid’s Kitchen would not have been a success without the help of Margilena Luna (Nutrition Educator) and Katie Sharpton (Family & Consumer Science/4H Agent).

August 2021

21

22 August 2021

Welcome to the 99th Annual

Gallup Inter-Tribal

Indian Ceremonial Association

White Water Trading Co.

This is a must stop en route to the majestic Zuni Pueblo and El Morro National Monument.

Authenticity is guaranteed on Navajo rugs, kachinas, pottery, Collector’s items, sand painting, Zuni fetishes, Old Pawn, Zuni, Navajo and Hopi Jewelry.

We have the price, quality, service and selection you’ve been looking for!

Joe Milo’s White Water Trading Co. is nestled among the pinon and pine trees in Vanderwagen located 17 miles south of Gallup, New Mexico on Hwy 602.

-Exit 20 in Gallup

1 • 888 • JOE • MILO 1628 S. HWY 602 VANDERWAGEN, NM 87326 WWW.JOEMILO.COM EMAIL: JOEMILO@HUGHES.NET

the Gallup Inter-Tribal of t en id es Pr e th m Welcome fro sociation Indian Ceremonial As ers,

My Fellow Ceremonial Lov

en kept our world moving wh to the brave heroes that you nk st. tha lea say the to d say to nee I ng First off s have been tryi nown. The past 18 month le the future was beyond unk tors are still not comfortab cta spe and rs, of our performe back in all you see will We We understand so many . fine t is to attend this year, and tha enough to make the trip ourage safe practices. enc do we 1, 202 in ing the future. For those attend to everyone that would like to say thank you we , ard bo g azin am my of th On behalf r-Tribal Indian Ceremonial to plan our 99 Gallup Inte ght fou we as us in ed liev has be e received from sponsors, pouring of support we hav ts, and collectors has Association event. The out ers, performers, contestan trad sts, arti rs, ng nce da , ers spectators, sing k many risks by even planni me many hurdles and too s rca see ove nity We mu ng. chi com al tou y loc been ver wing that our made it all worth it, was kno al th oni had at rem Wh Ce nt. ian eve Ind l 99 iba this llup Inter-Tr ual event. To many, the Ga the this as more than an ann to carry on the tradition of ud pro are We ily. fam our of rt re not pa is we nt we eve h n Associatio one in 1922. Althoug ting back to the very first al with da al oni oni rem rem Ce a Ce t tic sen hen aut , we are excited to pre nts eve ar pul po our gun of be able to put on a few assured we have already en seen in decades. Rest elements that have not be 2.

202 th l Celebration for August planning our 100 Annua well as the City of Gallup thank McKinley County as to nt me mo a e tak to I would like community. My board al events that benefit our loc g rtin po sup this event and g cin for embra ch time and effort to make rs have dedicated so mu ato rdin coo and ers mb me all. what it is today, thank you your or you have attended all time attending our event, ing see to ard forw k loo Whether this will be your first We have missed you and e. tim e saf , fun a at e gre hav a life, we hope you Association event. Have th r-Tribal Indian Ceremonial you at the 99 Gallup Inte time!

A Message from Gover nor Michelle Lujan Grisham I offer a warm New Mexico welcome to the distinguished guests, hailing from near and far, who are arriving in New Mexico for the 99th annual Inter-Tribal Indian Ceremonial. This ceremonial is an opportunity for tribes from all regions of the country to come together and share rich cultural traditions.

After a pandemic year in whi ch far too many of our tribal brothers and sisters were lost to an unforgiving virus, I know coming togeth er, seeing one another, sharing grief and celebratin g life with one another, will be an especially meaningful experience. I hope you agr ee that New Mexico – hom e to 23 tribes, nations and pueblos, all of which fou ght resiliently and bravely to protect their own and their neighbors throughout the health crisis; all of which are and will remain, for generations to come, deep wellsprings of unique and sac red tradition – is a fitting host for a reverential and insp iring ceremonial.

On behalf of the state of New Mexico, and of all New Me xicans, welcome, and please enjoy the events of this week.

Thank you, Kyle Tom ation l Indian Ceremonial Associ President, Gallup Inter-Triba

Welcome from the Mayor of the City of Gallup

ASSOCIATION

It is an honor and privilege to welcome you to the Gallup lntertribal Indian Ceremonial. This year marks the 99th year of one of the most colorful exciting promotions in the state.

I hope you enjoy the charm surrounding the event. The rodeo, the art in the exhibit hall, where you are assured you are buying true native art. "Prize winning art" - and the beauty of Red Rock Park, in the heart of the Red Rocks.

I hope your stay includes a little rest and relaxation to do some shopping and experience our unique cuisine in the local restaurants. Downtown offers a variety of local shops and the chance that you will find something unique. Our area has a natural beauty and our western lifestyle showcases the history and culture of our people.

When you are up to a more demanding physical activity, such as outdoor hiking, the "Pyramid Peak" trail will meet that challenge. We have world­class bike trails, nine murals downtown. You can get all the information and more by visiting our Chamber of Commerce located downtown.

I am happy you chose Gallup to be your destination and I hope in my heart, when you leave, it is with a warm feeling and a desire to return.

Welcome from the McKinley C ounty Board o Commissioners f and Manager’ s O ffi c e Welcome to Gallu p, Ne

w Mexico… the se at of McKinley Co nd McNally’s “Mos unty, the “Heart of t Patriotic Small To Indian wn in America 20 13.”

The McKinley Co unty Board of Co mmissioners, Man county welcomes ager’s Office, an each of you to ou d everyone in ou r community and Indian Ceremonial r great to the 99th Annu . We are particula al Gallup Inter-Triba rly proud of our Na full of traditions, an l tive heritage, rich d steeped in wisd in natural beauty, om passed on th the finest Native rough the ages. Fo American artisan r nearly a century, s have come to ou to meet and trade r county during th with other tribes an e annual Ceremon d tourists from arou ial nd the world.

The vast majority of Native America n arts & crafts are local artisans are created here in M exclusively in a cla cKinley County. Th ss by themselves. and exhibits skillful e Their beautiful ar knowledge hand t is truly one of a ed down over m kind any generations.

The lineage within the perfection of their art is time-sta culture. We are all mped and as stron very proud of ou g as their Native r diverse cultural Zuni tribes. We ho heritage, which inc pe that you will ha ludes the Navajo ve the time to vis your visit. and it these amazing communities durin g We know that yo u had many choic es on how and wh and we genuine ere to spend your ly appreciate yo ur decision to spen time this summer, Gallup Inter-Triba d it with us here in l Indian Ceremon McKinley County ial. at the Country,” and Ra

99th Annual

Gallup Inter-Tribal Indian Ceremonial Association Schedule August 7 -15, 2021

Saturday August 7th 8 am - 5 pm Artist & Traders Check-in - Red Rock Park Auditorium Sunday August 8th 7 am - 6 pm Art Judging - Best of Show - Red Rock Park Auditorium Tuesday August 10th 6 pm - 8 pm Nightly Indian Dances - McKinley County Courthouse Square Wednesday August 11th 6 pm - 8 pm Nightly Indian Dances McKinley County

Courthouse Square Thursday August 12th 9 am Open Rodeo Slack Red Rock Park Arena 10 am-10 pm Exhibit Hall Open Red Rock Park Auditorium 6 pm - 8 pm Nightly Indian Dances -

McKinley County

Courthouse Square 6 pm - 10 pm Opening Night Wine Gala -

Red Rock Park 7 pm Iron Cowgirl Challenge -

Red Rock Park Arena

CITY ELECTRIC SHOE SHOP 505.863.5252 Downtown Gallup

Friday August 13th 8 am 10 am - 8 pm 2 pm - 6 pm

6:30 pm

Saturday August 14th 10 am Open Team Roping - Red Rock Park Arena 10 am - 8 pm Exhibit Hall Open - Red Rock Park Exhibit Hall 2 pm - 6 pm Dance Performances Presented by Navajo Transitional

Energy Company - Red Rock Park Amphitheater 6:30 pm Open Rodeo 1st Performance - Red Rock Park Arena feat.

Indian Dances Sunday August 15th

Free Gate Admission sponsored by Navajo Nation Division

of Economic Development 10 am - 2 pm Exhibit Hall Open - Red Rock Park Exhibit Hall 11:30 am Open Rodeo Top 10 Short Round - Red Rock Park Arena

and Old School Days Rodeo featuring Buffalo riding,

hide race, pony express race, wild horse race, women's

steer riding, wild cow milking, frybread pan throw, fruit

scramble, and wooly riding

s ’ n a m r e Zimm

EST. 1946

THE BEST PLACE TO BUY MOCCASINS. WE’VE GOT SIZES FOR THE WHOLE FAMILY.

Open Junior Rodeo - Red Rock Park Arena Exhibit Hall Open - Red Rock Park Exhibit Hall Dance Performances Presented by Navajo Transitional Energy Company - Red Rock Park Amphitheater Open Rodeo 1st Performance - Red Rock Park Arena feat.

Indian Dances

Western Wear

505.863.3142 Downtown Gallup

Our land is rich in history.

Our stories are rich in spirit.

GALLUP 107 E. Aztec Ave., 505.722.4411 Walmart: 1650 W. Maloney Ave., 505.863.3442 • 1804 E. Aztec Ave., 505.722.0300

21_BC85_NM_GALLUP_INTERTRIBAL_CEREMONIAL_MAG_AD.indd 1

7/27/21 9:22 AM

Centennial Sponsors Amigo Chevrolet American Heritage Plaza Big 5 Sporting Goods Big Green Food Truck Bob and Linda Off Boot Barn Big Mikes Rental & Service Burlington Northern Santa Fe Business Environments Butlers C. Tanner, LLC Century 21 City Electric Shoe Shop City of Gallup Clay Fultz Insurance Clifton Electric Coca Cola Cowtown Feed & Livestock Dan Becker Dallago Corporation DePauli Engineering Dennys Earls Restaurant Edward Varndell Elite Laundry El Rancho Ellis Tanner Trading Company Ernestine Yazzie

Fire Rock Casino First American Traders First Financial Services Four Corners Welding & Supply Fratellis Bistro Gallup BID Gallup Lumber & Supply Grandpas Grill Greg P. Please, P.A. Griswolds Gurley Motor Company High Desert Cycles Home Depot IHEART Media Indian Touch of Gallup Jerry's Café Joe Milos Kachina Rentals Kathleen Matta King Dragon Knight Electric LAM Corporation Marathon McDonalds McKinley County Navajo Nation Parks and Rec Navajo Tractor Sales Pee Wee's

Perry Null Trading Company Pinnacle Bank Pino & Associates Rainbird Pawn Red Roof Inn Red Shell Jewelry Rehoboth McKinley Christian Richardson’s Trading Post Rico Auto Complex Rocket Café Rosebrough & Fowles Sammy C's Shaffers Mr. Tire Shi'ma Traders & Pawn Silver Dust Trading State Farm Insurance - Josh T. Steve Getzwiler Stoneweaver Sundance Motors Sun Loan Super Smith Thunderbird Supply Turquoise Tours Weaving in Beauty Winona Rivera Wrangler Zimmermans

Welcome To The 99th Annual Inter-Tribal Indian Ceremonial Association

Ceremonial Cover Artist Al Bahe Navajo artist Al Bahe knew that he always wanted to draw. When his family took him to church, he would find himself spending the time drawing on the bulletins during the sermon. These sketches would eventually lead to impressive works that would be inspired by his culture.

He is known for incorporating the Yei’ be Chei’ into many of his works. Every winter this ceremony becomes very important to the Navajo people and is used for healing. What is more impressive about his work is that Al is selftaught.

Make sure you stop by and meet Al during your visit to the Inter-Tribal Ceremonial grounds.

High-end Native American Jewelry

Ceremonial Sale 20% Off

Monday to Friday: 9:00am - 5:00pm

215 S 3rd Street, Gallup, NM • 505-722-5992 info@galluptrading.com • galluptrading.com

Perry Null Trading ______________________________________

Gallup, New Mexico 505.863.5264

perrynulltrading.com

1702 S 2nd Street

ServIng the Four cornerS SInce 1997 toll Free # is (866) 228-5245 local # (505) 726-1740

ImmedIate Storage delIvered to Your locatIon

Thank you to our Sponsors of the Fruit Scramble

BILL MALONE TRADING

Cash Cow POTTERY RUGS

235 W. COAL AVENUE

GALLUP, NM

JEWELRY BASKETS

“TRADER TO THE INDIGENOUS PEOPLE FOR OVER 50 YEARS”

Welcome to Silver Dust Trading Co. Shop, Save and Bead Happy!

121 W. Hwy 66 Downtown Gallup 505-722-4848 • www.silverdusttrading.com

Thank you to MedStar for sponsoring the Gallup Inter-Tribal Indian Ceremonial Association

401 East Coal Ave. 505-863-4444 fax: 505-722-7381

www.kgakradio.com ´ BIZAAD NIZHONI DINE

1330 AM

1330 KGAK delivers live-broadcast local, regional and national news, entertainment and public affairs issues 365 days and nights a year; and serves the Diné (Navajo People) within a 100 plus mile radius surrounding Gallup, New Mexico

Aaron Thompson - DJ

Beth Miller - DJ

Carol Tapaha - DJ

Kenneth Smith - DJ

Angie Vacot Office Manager

Harrison Dehiya Program Director

Pat Jarvison Senior Account Executive

Eugene Plummer Sr. - DJ

Richardson Trading Post

The Richardson family continues to serve you as they have for more than 100 years at the same location.

Richardson Trading Post specializes in rugs, jewelry, pottery, Kachinas and baskets.

505-722-4762 • 222 W. Hwy. 66, Gallup, NM 87301

Tours of this historic trading post are available by appointment for groups of 10 or more.

Toyota

505-722-3881 www.amigotoyota.com

Chrysler/Dodge/Jeep/ram

505-979-7500

www.amigocdjr.com

Chevrolet

505-722-7701

www.amigoautomotive.com

3 DEALERSHIPS. 6 BRANDS. 1 STOP!

Gallup Coca-Cola Welcomes You to the 2021 Gallup Inter-Tribal Indian Ceremonial Association, Enjoy A Coke And A Smile While Attending This Years Event One Great Company Four Awesome Formats News, Weather, Sports Personalities and Great Music! www.gallupradio.com

505-863-6851 300 West Aztec, Ste. 200 Gallup, NM 87301

MADE IN AMERICA FOR THE WORLD Rhino Health, Inc. isɸthe first comprehensive nitrile glove manufacturing facility in theɸUnited States.ɸOur history of superior quality and consistently outstanding proven performance in global manufacturing singularly position us to offer a less expensive, high quality, line of products made in the USA. Our productsɸare distributed both in the USɸand abroad

The Rhino Health Difference

We are also a leader in repurposing disposable materials to create germ-free, antiperspirant, breathable pillow cases and mattress covers for home and hospital use. Rhino Health also provides "magic cleaner" sponges used in healthcare, food service and educational facilities.

American Future Global Foundation Made in the USA Produced by Native Americans Small Minority-owned business HUB Zone First nitrile glove manufacturer in the USA 35 years of proven past performance Protein-free and hypoallergenic Only uses best raw materials

Formed in 2018 in New Mexico, Rhino Health is the US-based beachhead for a 30-plus year old Korean backed initiative to produce disposable nitrile gloves in the United States. This historic initiative will train and employ almost 400 local Native Americans in our 124,000 square foot manufacturing facility.

48-hour delivery for most items R&D Center and Simulation Laboratory Able to customize product properties and characteristics to end-user specifications Environmentally friendly and recyclable materials (including packaging) rhinohealthgloves.com 309a E.Highway 118 PO Box 37 Church Rock, NM 87311

Griswold’s, INC. Indian Arts & Crafts

We are a small family-owned Indian trading company.

We specialize in high quality Native American arts and crafts and pawn.

1591 HWY 264, Tse Bonito, NM 505-371-5393

Welcome to the 99th Annual Inter-Tribal Indian Ceremonial

ROCK

106.1

THE ROCK STATION

Gallup’s Favorite Radio Stations

iHeart Media - Gallup 1632 South Second Street • Gallup, NM 87301 • Main 505-863-9391 • Fax 505-863-9393

A

A Special Thank You to All the Staff and Volunteers of the Inter-Tribal Ceremonial

F THE SOUTHW O E ES ST A T T

804 US-491 Gallup, NM 87301 505-863-4944

Special Thank You to Camille’s for Providing the Meals for Volunteers and Sponsoring the Nightly Native Indian Dances.

Just 1 Mile North of Exit 20 on Hwy 491 • Plaza del Norte

1219 State 491 • Gallup NM

505-722-5490

Jewelry, Pottery & Rugs 50% Off for Ceremonial!

Adult & Children Hooded Towels

Oversized Towels

Located inside Gallup Lumber 505-722-3292 Hours: Monday -Thursday-8:00 am -5:00 pm Friday-8:00 am-6:00 pm Saturday-8:00-1:00 pm

Brave Star

Big Medicine

Ceramic Mugs-Gift boxed

Rodeo Sisters

Eagle Gift

Canyonlands

Come see our slection of Pendleton Blankets!

Propane Filling Station Farm, Ranch & Home Improvement

Your Local Ace Hardware Store

Electrical, Plumbing, Hardware, Tools, Paint, Home Improvement, Doors & Windows, Contractor Sales, Farm & Ranch

1724 South Second • Gallup • 505-863-4475 • 505-559-4475 • Hours-Mon.-Fri.-7:30 am-6:00 pm • Sat. -7:30 am - 5:00 pm

Breakfast • Lunch • Dinner

Conveniently located near West Side Hotels 505-863-5152 • 2720 W. Hwy 66

Welcome to the 99th Gallup Inter-Tribal Indian Ceremonial Association

221-US 491 Gallup, NM 87301 Monday-Friday 8 am - 5 pm Saturday 8 am - 3 pm

www.navajotractorsales.com • 505-863-3806

Ranching is hard work.

American Heritage Plaza Shopping Center

Centennial Club Sponsor Proud Supporters of the 99th Annual Gallup Inter-Tribal Indian Ceremonial Association Come See Our Shopping Center We have everything in the Plaza that will make your stay in Gallup pleasurable!

McDonald’s Family Dollar Big 5 Sporting Goods Gallup Children’s Dentistry Boot Barn-rodeo sponsor Fashion Mart Rent-A-Center Subway Starbucks Cellular One

Jackson Hewitt Gallup Nail & Spa Denny’s - Centennial Club Taco Bell Sizzler Speedway Safeway Big Green Food Truck

U.S. 491 on Gallup’s north side

Joshua Turney, Agent 921 W Aztec Avenue Gallup, NM 87301 Bus: 505-863-4483 www.joshturney.com

I’ll work hard to protect your ranch and auto.

Get to a better State .

Get State Farm.

CALL ME TODAY. ®

State Farm Mutual Automobile Insurance Company, State Farm Indemnity Company, Bloomington, IL State Farm Fire and Casualty Company, State Farm General Insurance Company, Bloomington, IL State Farm Florida Insurance Company, Winter Haven, FL 1201797 State Farm Lloyds, Dallas, TX

Taira’s Inc. & High Desert QSRs are proud to support the 99th Inter-Tribal Indian Ceremonial. Stop by any of our locations throughout the Four Corners area!

Cortez

Serving Gallup, Southern Colorado, and the great Navajo Nation for over 50 years.

Durango

Kayenta Shiprock

Tuba City

Tse Bonito Windowrock Gallup

Taco Bell

Camille’s Sidewalk Cafe 306 S. 2nd St. Downtown Gallup, NM

3 Locations in Gallup Window Rock, AZ (& Pizza Hut) Tuba City, AZ Kayenta, AZ Shiprock, NM Durango, CO Cortez, CO

KFC

Gallup North Hwy 491 Tse Bonito, NM Cortez, CO

Serving Gallup and the Surrounding Reservations Since 1919!

220 S. Fifth St., Gallup, NM 87301 | 505-722-2271 | www.ricoautocomplex.com

August 2021

47

People Reading Sharing this picture of my family and I on our recent trip to San Diego to visit with our oldest son Daniel. We got to take a special tour of the USS Midway and posed for this picture with the Navajo Nation Flag. From l to r: Daniel Escamilla, Ken Riege, Retha Riege and Eric Paul Riege

The Dance - Photo by DZuni Photography Photo by Lonnie Williams

48 August 2021

Meet our

GMCS Principals

ELEMENTARY SCHOOLS

Nick Garro – Catherine A Miller Elementary School Tell me about yourself: My name is Nick Garro, and I am the new Principal of Catherine A. Miller. I was born in Kansas City, Missouri, but I grew up in and around the Gallup area. I attended Crownpoint Elementary, Thoreau Elementary, Stagecoach Elementary, and Kennedy Middle School in my youth.

What are your interests outside of school? I am fortunate to be married to Brittainy Garro who has blessed me with two amazing children: Madilynn (7) and Jaxon (9). As a family, we enjoy being in nature and Gallup has the perfect mixture of geological features to keep my eyes shining. In addition to enjoying our beautiful surroundings, we enjoy watching local sports and eating at Don Diego’s.

What is your educational and background? My journey into public education came to realization my senior year of high school when I worked with a student who inspired me to believe that ALL STUDENTS CAN LEARN, some at different paces than others. I graduated from Eastern New Mexico University with my bachelor’s in special education and later my Master of Arts in Special Education. After working with students with severe exceptionalities, I began work as an Inclusion math and English teacher at Tohatchi High school, Yeigo Yeigo Nashdoitsoh!! While in Tohatchi, I supported students in athletics as Athletic Director for two years, which then inspired me to earn a master’s degree in educational leadership from Western New Mexico University. Later, I had the opportunity to support students in an administrative role at Lincoln and Stagecoach Elementary Schools along with Gallup High school.

What is your Role/Vision? As Principal of Catherine A. Miller, I look forward to meeting you and engaging in the surrounding communities. The students at Catherine A. Miller have welcomed me with warm hearts and smiling eyes, so parents/guardians, thank you for raising such wonderful children. At Catherine A. Miller, we believe every student can be successful with appropriate support, relevant learning, and rigorous classroom studies that prepare our students for the rigor of local, district and state assessments.

Catherine A. Miller Elementary School 505-721-1400

Sasha Blanco – Chee Dodge Elementary School Tell me About Yourself: I am pretty much a native of Gallup, as I have lived here since I was one year old. I attended Gallup Catholic High School where I played volleyball, basketball, cheerleading and softball. When I am not working, I like to hang out with my family and friends, especially my niece and two nephews, as well as playing sports. When I need an escape and some downtime, I enjoy building with Legos, and seeing the result of clicking small and interlocking bricks together.

I like to walk my dog Billy and go on bike rides with my mom.

What made you want to become an educator? Education and school have always been a big part of my life. My mother was a teacher, and I spent a lot of time in her classroom after-hours and on weekends. In high school, I remember volunteering in her classroom one afternoon when the students were doing a cool project called “Pumpkin Math.” Students were busy measuring, predicting and floating pumpkins and having such a good time, not even realizing all the math concepts they were working on. That day, I knew I wanted to become a teacher. My senior year in high school, I volunteered and worked half a day in a first-grade classroom. While attending college for the next four years, I substituted at the schools, and then became an assistant at Roosevelt Elementary. My first teaching job was a 5th grade teacher at Jefferson Elementary. From there, I obtained my master’s degree at Grand Canyon and went on to be an Instructional Coach, Assistant Principal at Miyamura and now I am the principal at Chee Dodge Elementary.

What interests you? Hobbies-I have a variety of hobbies, I like to listen to all forms of music, my favorites being country and 90’s music. I enjoy drawing, painting and constructing Harry Potter Lego kits. Activities: Slowpitch, soccer, swimming, bike riding and walking my dog. Music: Country, 90’s and 2000’s What is your Role/Vision? My role is to create future leaders who will come back to enhance our community and educate the next generation of learners. My community has been good to me, and I feel the responsibility to support it and “give back”. I believe a positive community inspires people and promotes a sense of self-discovery and group connections, encouraging community members to express their beliefs and values to build relations with one another.

Ris Robinson – Crownpoint Elementary School Tell Me About Yourself: I am Riss Robinson. I came to Gallup, New Mexico, by way of my hometown of Reynolds, Georgia. I began my career ten years ago with Dougherty County Public Schools. My wife Dr. Devin Robinson (OB/GYN physician and USPHS Officer) and I reside in Arizona. I hold a B.A. degree in History from Albany State University, Master’s degree in Curriculum and Instruction from Columbus State University, and a Specialist degree in Curriculum and Education Leadership from Northwest Missouri State University.

What made you want to become an educator? I have been surrounded by education all of my life. Several family members are educators, and there was a strong educator presence in my community. My mother was the first person to tell me that I was going to be an educator. She said I would drag a briefcase around the house, knock on doors and say, “It’s me, Mr. Teacher!”. So, you can say that my career in education reflects “destiny and purpose.” My decision to study history in college and later teach social studies is profoundly rooted in African American oral tradition. As a child, I was constantly surrounded by generations of wisdom-rich heritage painfully yet carefully cataloged for posterity through broken language, calloused hands, arthritic limbs, and sea-grey eyes. My first male and fifth-grade teacher, Mr. Isasiah Ross, also inspired me to follow my “calling.”

What interests you? Hobbies/Activities: Eating and sleeping, community service, cooking, traveling, journaling, junking/thrifting, or anything related to historical research and preservation. Interests: History, Baseball, Tennis, Travel, Storytelling, Theater. Music: Traditional Gospel, R&B, Neo Soul, Pop Country, Blues, Juke Joint Soul, Jazz, Hip Hop What is your Role/Vision? To provide GMCS students and communities equitable and sustainable learning opportunities through deliberate, consistent, and structured academic and social interactions.

Crownpoint Elementary School 505-721-1500

Amanda Clawson – David Skeet Elementary School Tell me about yourself: I was born and raised in northern New Mexico. I am the second of 4 children.

I began my teaching career in the Espanola Public School District, and this will be my twelfth year in the Gallup McKinley School District (GMCS). I have worked for GMCS in different capacities during that time including as a teacher, an Instructional Coach, an SLI, and as a principal. My husband Sean and I live on his family ranch near El Morro where he was raised. We enjoy the quiet and beauty of the area and understand the challenges of muddy roads.

Education: Kindergarten-12th grade: Pojoaque Valley Schools, 1998 Technical certificate: Utah College of Massage therapy, 2001 BS: Brigham Young University, 2005 ALP Certificate: Northern New Mexico College, 2009 MS Ed. Leadership: Western Governor’s University, 2020 What made you want to become an educator? I have always been passionate about supporting children and families. Through various experiences, I learned that I could have the greatest positive impact on children and families by ensuring that they have the best education possible.

What interests you? I usually have a couple of books I’m reading and at least one audio book I’m listening to, movies – mostly old Hollywood classics and rom coms. I love spending time with my family. Road trips with my hubby, visiting museums or historical sites. I have a very eclectic music taste. Depends on my mood.

What is your Role/Vision? My vision is to provide the best education to students so that they have opportunities and choices in life. My philosophy on education is that we do our best to give students the tools they need to be successful in life. We make decisions based on what is best for students. We, as parents and educators, have the most important jobs in the world. Our impact and influence on our future generations is significant through our work in educating students. Now, more than ever, we are faced with unique challenges.

As we begin a new school year, my desire is that we can be filled with the spirit of hope and excitement for what we can contribute to the future through our work at David Skeet Elementary, with our students, community, and families.

David Skeet Elementary School Phone (505) 721-1700

Chee Dodge Elementary School 505-721-1300

August 2021

49

Richy Ferguson – Del Norte Elementary School Tell me About Yourself: I have worked for GMCS since 1994 (27 years), five years as a classroom teacher and this will be my twenty-second year as an administrator. I have been married to my beautiful wife for 31 years. I have four (4) wonderful children and a great son-in-law. The last member of the family is our dog (Lilly) and I really do not know if she belongs to us or we belong to her.

What made you want to become an educator? I was working at Gallup Lumber and spent my lunch hours volunteering in my wife’s classroom. I really enjoyed being in the classroom working with students. I started taking education classes at UNM-Gallup and earned my under-graduate degree in education from UNM. My master’s degree in administration is from Western New Mexico University (WNMU).

What interests you? Hobbies: I enjoy spending time working on my 1972 Volkswagen Beetle. I love the challenge of keeping a 49-year-old vehicle running. Activities: Attending my youngest son’s school functions including MHS soccer and tennis. I attend functions that the family is involved with including attending church. Music: eclectic (I listen to everything) What is your Role/Vision? Del Norte will be a stable, safe, inclusive environment that staff and students will be able to engage in the instructional process so that students will be able to build the skills they need to be successful in life.

Del Norte Elementary School 505-721-5200

Daryl Antone – Indian Hills Elementary School Tell me About Yourself: I grew up in Gallup. I went to school and graduated from GMCS. I am the principal of Indian Hills Elementary.

Education: What made you want to become an educator? I have a Master of Education from Grand Canyon University. Having the ability to make a real difference in the lives of the children. Each day that you work with students, you have the potential to make a lasting impression.

What interests you? Hobbies: I like to camp, hunt, and fish. Spend time with family. Activities: Enjoy watching my daughter play college basketball. Music: All music is good.

What is your Role/Vision? To have each student be a lifelong learner who contributes to an ever changing and increasingly diverse world. To have every staff member be able to problem-solve, work collaboratively, and utilize resources effectively in order to meet student needs.

Indian Hills Elementary School 505-721-2900

Felicia Sanchez – Jefferson Elementary School Tell me about yourself: I was born and raised in Gallup. I am a wife and mother of three boys. My family is my world. I have worked at GMCS as a teacher and in administration for 11 years.

Education: I graduated from Gallup High School. I earned my bachelor’s degree in Music Education from Eastern New Mexico University. I earned my master’s degree in Educational Administration from Grand Canyon University.

What made you want to become and educator? I became an educator because I wanted to share my passion for music and open the door to creative opportunities for students. I moved into administration to have more of an impact on student’s academic growth and success.

What interests you? I enjoy my work and watching students grow. I have learned to focus my mind on what is best for students. I enjoy spending time with family and staying busy within the community. I am a part of the GMCS Teachers Ensemble.

What is your Role/Vision? My role is to create a culture of learning in our school. I support the growth of teachers that will positively grow student academics. My ultimate goal is to create successful contributing members of our community.

Jefferson Elementary School 505-721-3000

Edgardo Castro – Lincoln Elementary School Tell me about yourself: I am originally from the Philippines. I have been with GMCS for the past 6 years. I started as the principal of Juan de Onate Elementary School in 2016. When Onate merged with Washington Elementary and became Del Norte Elementary School, I became the principal of the new combined school. In 2017 I became the principal of Roosevelt Elementary School. I found myself again in the same position when Roosevelt combined with Lincoln elementary School, and I became principal of that new merger.

What made you become an educator? I was inspired by a family

50 August 2021

member back home in the Philippines. He was a teacher for 42 years and showed me how education can change lives. Education is the 1st step to any profession and in my opinion, it is the most amazing profession. I believe that every day is a new opportunity for learning.

What interests you? Currently I am working on my Ph.D. I enjoy reading and writing, but right now I am busy working on my dissertation. I believe that it is important to balance everything out by taking care of yourself. I try to manage this with meditation and self-reflection.

What is your Role/Vision? My goal is to help the students to become more proficient learners. I believe that sometimes it is best to think outside the box as none of us learn the same. Some of our students are met with language barriers.

I can relate! For those students I believe visualization is the best approach.

Lincoln Elementary School 505-721-3400

Kitty Wise – Navajo Elementary School Tell me About Yourself: My name is Kitty Wise. I have been in education for 10 years. I moved here from Louisiana where I grew up. I have taught high school Social Studies and ELA at the prison in Milan. I was an IC for two years and an SLI for 1. I am currently the Principal at Navajo Elementary. I have been married for 32 years and have three daughters. I enjoy taking a yearly vacation with my husband, grown children and spouses and grandchildren. We try to go to new places and have new experiences every year.

Your Education: I have a bachelor’s from Louisiana State University in Shreveport, A Masters in Curriculum and Instruction from University of Phoenix and completed my additional Leadership courses through a program at University of New Mexico.

What made you want to become and educator? I always knew I would eventually like to teach. However, I chose to raise most of my children first. I worked as a 911 call taker, Insurance Solicitor, Carhop and Transcription Coordinator. Having these careers and raising my children made me realize I really wanted to finish my education and move into Education which is what I really wanted to do.

What interests you? I enjoy traveling and spending time with my family.

What is your Role/Vision? I believe my role is to create a safe and positive environment for our students to learn. I need to ensure the teachers and students have what is necessary for them to be successful in their role. I need to be visible and actively engaged in all activities at the school.

Navajo Elementary School 505-721-3500

Oscar Ontiveros - Ramah Elementary School

Tell me about yourself: I began my career in El Paso, Texas.

I hold a bachelor’s degree in Elementary Education from the University of Texas at El Paso and a master’s degree in Pk-12 Mid-Management Administration from Sul Ross State University. My professional experience in education consists of 5 years teaching and 31 years in public school administration.

What is your educational and background? To my surprise, becoming an educator has been the hardest, thankless job I ever ended up loving. I am grateful for the turn of events that led me to become an educator, otherwise I would not have found my calling. School was not as easy for me because English was not my first language. My teachers always took the time to help me understand what was being taught. My teachers fostered within me a desire to learn, challenge myself and explore. I wanted to share that same experience with others. As a student, I always dreamed about becoming a teacher because my teachers were always encouraging, and they were able to make learning so much fun. I served in elementary, middle, and high school settings as an Assistant Principal and Principal. I have held District leadership positions as a Director, Coordinating Migrant Education, Bilingual Education, Special Programs and Even Start Family Literacy Programs. My professional experience includes working with the U.S. Department of Education validating national benchmarks for schools that were published in areas such as The Concept of a Learning Centered School, Challenging Standards and Curriculum, The Classroom Common Core, and Expectations for Schools, Families and Communities.

I served six years on national panels with the Office of Bilingual Education Minority Languages Affairs and six years with the Office of Educational Research and Improvement.

What are your interests outside of school? I was an avid tennis player in my youth, and I played in the Junior Davis Cup. While playing tennis for Midland Junior College I became a national champion and was named an AllAmerican. Since my parents were both expert geologists, I continue to enjoy collecting museum quality mineral specimens from all over the world.

What Role/Vision do you see for yourself as principal of Ramah Elementary: Students are encouraged to have significant responsibility for their learning. Our staff plan incorporates learning styles, group work,

communication, and a wide range of thinking skills to encourage deep understanding and knowledge. The song “You will be Found” from the musical Dear Evan Hansen is a reminder to me that the most important part of my job is to make sure that my students are heard and that they all get the help they need.

Ramah Elementary School 505-721-3700

Eva Prieto – Red Rock Elementary School Tell me About Yourself: I am honored to have the opportunity to lead a school alongside Red Rock Elementary School’s amazing staff! I have been committed to the field of education for fifteen years.

During this time, I have had the privilege to teach and work with a variety of students from preschool all the way to graduate school.

What made you want to become and educator?

I attended the University of California Los Angeles for undergraduate and both WNMU and UNM for graduate school. I have a master’s degree in Special Education and a master’s degree in Business Administration. I am also a National Board-Certified Teacher as an Exceptional Needs Specialist.

What interests you? Hobbies: Reading, hiking, and performing arts! Activities: Performing Arts Music: I love music! I am currently listening to Vesna by DakhaBrakha.

What is your Role/Vision? I appreciate the opportunity to share your child’s educational experience with you and I look forward to collaborating with you on a journey to serve our students and families. I am committed to engaging our school community in our shared vision where all stakeholders work towards academic excellence and student achievement. I am committed to student learning and invested in staff development and growth.

Red Rock Elementary School 505-721-3900

Neil Tulabing – Stagecoach Elementary School Tell me about yourself: My name is Neil Tulabing and I am 31 years old. I am originally from the Philippines. I started teaching Math at GMCS in 2015.

All my background education is in secondary education.

I have spent time teaching math in both high school and 3 years with Thoreau Middle School. This will be my third year as a principal. This next year I will be the new principal of Stagecoach Elementary.

What made you want to become an educator? I started teaching when I was 19. I got my master’s degree in 2015.

What interests you? I love cooking and traveling. My wife and I like to try different restaurants and new cuisine so that we can try making it at home.

What is your Role/Vision? “I would like to be the person that can connect the community and the staff in which we can help out each other in a collaborate way in helping all the students achieve their dreams”.

Stagecoach Elementary School 505-721-4300

Dr. Michelle Galaviz – Thoreau Elementary School Tell me about yourself: Ya’at’eeh, shi k’ei doó shi diné’e. Shí éí Dr. Michelle Galaviz yinishye, Tsi’naajinii nishło, Tódik’ǫzhi, bá shíshchíín. Tséńjíkiní’éí dashicheii. Kinyaa’áanii’éí dashinálí. Hello fellow colleagues, friends, families, and community members.

I am a member of the Navajo Tribe. My maternal clan is Black Streak Wood People Clan (Tsi’naajinii). My paternal clan is Saltwater People Clan (Tódik’ǫzhi). I am a mother of four boys. My sons all attend GMCS schools. I am married to my wonderful and amazing husband. I was raised in New Mexico and also attended all GMCS schools. I have lived in the Gallup area since I was in elementary school. I continue to work for our community and help in our schools.

What is your educational background? I graduated from Gallup High School. I earned a Bachelor of Science Degree in Early Childhood Education from the University of New Mexico. Then, I went back to school and earned my first master’s degree in Counseling from Western New Mexico State University. After, I attended Western New Mexico University again and earned my second master’s degree in Educational Leadership and Administration. Then, I was accepted into the Educational Leadership Doctoral Program at New Mexico State University in Las Cruces, New Mexico. I earned my Doctorate Degree in Educational

Leadership and Administration. I have attended classes in higher education for the past 20 years.

What made you want to become and educator? I became an educator to help inspire other students to set high goals and let them know that nothing is impossible. You must remain committed, stay determined, do not give up, and let nothing stop you. Education is important and it plays a huge role in my journey. I have always been encouraged by my grandparents, parents, and family members to achieve as much as I could in education. I hope I can inspire others to achieve their highest ability.

What are your interests? Outside of school I love to read and watch movies. I also give presentations on my research at different universities and for diverse groups. I like to listen to all types of music; what keeps me positive and happy.

What Role/Vision do you see for yourself as principal of Thoreau Elementary: My role and vision are to inspire others. I want students to know that just because you come from a small community does not mean you cannot make a difference or achieve the impossible. I want students to know that whatever their past is or whatever the trends have shown, they are not their past and they are not whatever the trends show. I want students to know they are masterpieces, and they can write their own destinies and achieve more than they ever thought they could.

Thoreau Elementary School 505-721-4400

Robin Holder – Tohatchi Elementary School Tell me About Yourself: I have been married for 40 years. We have one son, one daughter, and 4 grandsons of whom we are very proud. They bring joy to our lives.

What made you want to become and educator? I always wanted to teach. I never wanted to do anything else. I taught high school Math in Georgia before moving to Gallup 16 years ago. I began teaching at Gallup High School in 2005, became an Instructional Coach for GMCS in 2009, and became an Administrator in 2017. I love learning and working with teachers, but my passion is spending time with students. The best part of my day is getting to spend time in classrooms with children and hearing them tell me about what they are learning.

What interests you? Hobbies: Reading, cooking. Activities: Camping, walking early in the morning, spending time with friends and family. Music: 70’s Rock and Roll, Country What is your Role/Vision? My role is to ensure that all decisions and actions at Tohatchi Elementary School are made by answering the question, “What is best for the students?”

Tohatchi Elementary School 505-721-4700

Noel Thomas – Turpen Elementary School Tell me About Yourself: Noel Thomas born and raised in Gallup NM. I have had the opportunity to work at a few different elementary schools with different leaders to help me grow. I am happily married to my husband Trevor, we have 3 kids Lexi in 8th grade, MelaRay in 7th grade and Cole our ninemonth-old son. I have three brothers and a big family that I love spending time with. I am blessed with amazing parents that have been supportive of all of my endeavors in life.

Education: I have my bachelors in elementary education from the University of New Mexico, and my master’s in educational leadership from Western New Mexico University.

What made you want to become and educator? I made the decision to go into education to become influential in students’ lives. I want to continue to share my love for learning. I had great educators growing up and I want to be able to share and give back to the community.

What interests you? I enjoy reading, watching baseball, outdoor activities such as camping, fishing, hunting, and hiking. Taking advantage of trips to relax and refresh with my family. More recently my family has been enjoying “Escape Rooms” to work together to try to escape in one hour by solving unique and challenging problems. Any other time is spent with my family helping and participating in their activities.

What is your Role/Vision? My vision as a new principal at Tobe Turpen Elementary is to continue to support my staff so they can offer the best education possible to our 400 students.

“WORK HARD, GO FAR, ALWAYS REMEMBER WHO YOU ARE! Hooowwwlll!”

Tobe Turpen Elementary 505-721-5000

Elna Go – Twin Lakes Elementary School Tell me about yourself: Life is wonderful and full of surprises. Always radiate kindness, warmth and positivity wherever you go and whatever you do.

My name is Elna DelaCruz Go. I have been in this teaching profession for quite a while. I graduated from the University of the Philippines. Diliman, Quezon City for my bachelor’s degree in Elementary Education and obtained my master’s degree in

Meet our GMCS Principals August 2021

51

Educational Administration back then. I am a mother of 3 and a grandmother of 4.

What made you want to become an educator? It was my mother who was my second-grade teacher who inspired me to become a teacher. I saw her passion and dedication to teaching. I started teaching in the Philippines where I became a principal as well. I taught in Chicago for 11 years upon my arrival to the United States. My family moved to New Mexico, where GMCS became my first home for public education. The more I was inspired to become an educator and administrator because I was awarded as an Exemplary Teacher for two years at Red Rock Elementary School while teaching fourth grade. I moved to Kennedy Middle School where I was a performing Instructional coach under the Achieve-Excellence Program by our district. After that I became a School Leader Intern at Turpen Elementary School before I was hired as the school principal of Twin Lakes Elementary School.

What interests you? I love to Travel with my family. I like watching movies with my husband. Keeping the house organized with seasonal themes is my stress reliever. Top of the world, You, Close to You or any songs by the Carpenters are my favorite. I also enjoy inspirational music.

What is your role or vision? As an educational leader, I would like to empower my students to be successful, responsible and respectful citizens in a multicultural environment. I want them to proudly say to everybody that I finished my elementary grades at Twin Lakes Elementary School. I will always be thankful to our dedicated staff and passionate teaching force.

Since my last name is Go... I would say Go, Go, Go Twin Lakes Eagles. Soar High!

Twin Lakes Elementary School 505-721-5100

MIDDLE SCHOOLS Randy Crisler – Chief Manuelito Middle School Tell me About Yourself: I grew up in Elko Nevada, a small town in north-eastern Nevada. I have traveled and lived in the Philippines, Egypt, and the United Arab Emirates. My undergraduate is from the University of Arizona in Tucson and my graduate school was the University of Idaho. I started my career as a teacher 16 years ago at Gallup Junior High as a 9th grade Social Studies teacher. After 3 years in Gallup, I moved to Idaho and taught there in a middle school until I became a principal. After several years in Idaho a family friend invited us to come back to Gallup and our family has been back for almost 5 years—4 of those years as a principal at Indian Hills Elementary. My wife and I have 3 children and our youngest who was born in Gallup is a sophomore at McKinley Academy.

What made you want to become an educator? I have always wanted to become a teacher since I was in elementary school. The only time this changed was after September 11th, 2001, when I thought I would go into the military or work for the government; however, after much consideration and prayer I decided to stay with teaching. As a teacher I loved to see the growth my students were making in the classroom. And as principal I now get to see this growth in the whole school.

What interests you? Hobbies: I do not really have any hobbies. I like to try to learn new things and my most recent “hobby” is to learn how to smoke meat for a BBQ. Activities: I love to Golf, go camping, travel, and participate in water activities. Music: 1970-1980s Rock What is your Role/Vision? As a principal my key role is to help students achieve greatness and to have a quality educational experience. I believe that anytime a student can perform, compete, demonstrate, or present in front of others…. This is the best kind of education experience for students.

Chief Manuelito Middle School 505-721-5600

Dr. Kay Morris – Crownpoint Middle School Tell me about Yourself: I have been in education for over twenty-five years servicing students and teachers in the capacity of teacher, teacher mentor, instructional coach, educational consultant, K-12 administrator and researcher. I have had the privilege of working with students of all ethnicities and cultures in various states.

Education: What made you become an educator?

My educational background includes Doctor of Philosophy in Education with an emphasis on Educational Administration and Leadership. The focus of my research was on Small Class Size and its Impact on Students Learning. I also hold a master’s degree in Curriculum and Instruction and a bachelor’s degree in Liberal Arts with a focus in Political Science. I went into education for several reasons but most importantly to influence students learning in a positive way.

What is your Role/Vision? My role as a principal for Crownpoint Middle School is not only to lead but to also focus on quality of teaching and learning that will be evident in the classroom and to collaborate on cultivating a culture that focuses on quality and equity.

Crownpoint Middle School 505-721-5400

Lindsey Mingus – Gallup Middle School Tell me About Yourself: I am so happy to be a Gallup Mid Mustang. 7 of my 8 years with GMCS have been spent at Gallup Mid and they have been wonderful years. I enjoy spending time with my family and hiking with my two little boys. I am originally from Ohio and love to get back when I can.

What made you want to become an educator? I went to Ashland University in Ashland, Ohio for undergrad where I have a degree in Middle Grades Education. I have a Master’s in Ed Leadership from UNM - Go Lobos! I went into Education because I love learning and the empowerment that education provides to people. I wanted to share the love of learning to students and share the gift of lifelong learning with them.

What interests you? I enjoy knitting and reading. I like playing with my Cricut machine and listening to 90s Music What is your Role/Vision? All students have the capacity and ability to learn. It is our job as educators to foster that drive to learn and help students figure out how they learn best.

Gallup Middle School 505-721-2700

Jessica Landavazo Guillen – John F. Kennedy Middle School Tell me about yourself: I am Jessica Landavazo Guillen. I am the new principal of John F. Kennedy Middle School. My husband, Mike, and I have 5 children: Josh, Matthew, Adam Guillen, and Dillon and Madison Landavazo.

What interests you? I enjoy baseball, softball, coaching, traveling, and spending time with her family and friends.

Education: What made you become an educator? I graduated from Robert E. Lee High School in Midland, TX before attending Arizona State University where I earned a Bachelor of Arts in Education with an endorsement in K-12 Physical Education. I began my career teaching physical education at Lincoln Elementary 15 years. I then went on to earn a Master of Education in Educational Administration from Grand Canyon University. I became the Dean of Students for one year followed by becoming the educational leader at Jefferson Elementary for another 6 years. I grew up in the classroom. My mother was a Kindergarten teacher.

She loves working with students and staff. All students are capable of learning, and all students, no matter what age, want to know that someone cares about them.

What is your role or vision? My vision is for students and teachers to build a strong, positive, and professional school climate and culture that will foster student success. I believe that all the knowledge in the world cannot make a good leader. It is the care for the work and the people who make the difference.

John F. Kennedy Middle School 505-721-3100

Jodi Alexander – Navajo Middle School Tell me About Yourself: My name is Jody Alexander.

I am new to New Mexico (and loving it) from Florida and entering my 27th year in education. I was a high school band director for 17 years, a vocational teacher for five, then moved into administrative roles as an OJT Coordinator, Dean, and Assistant Principal. As well as being an educator, I played French horn professionally in orchestras, theaters, and churches and raced bicycles for fun. I enjoy being around and working with all kinds of animals.

What made you want to become an educator? As a student, my favorite classes were Band and PE. I studied music education to become a high school band director so students who were not necessarily that great in academic classes could feel the same success I did in school and learn the ability to create beauty with music.

What interests you? I enjoy cycling, hiking, most outdoors activities except water activities because in Florida everything in the water wants to either sting you or eat you. I enjoy doing the work in education! I like Neo-Classical and country music What is your Role/Vision? My vision is that all students have the ability to be successful in life, whether it be academic or vocational. My role is to support teachers and staff in assisting students to find that path to their success.

As principal, I am also instrumental in guiding our students to become their best selves, whatever that might be.

Navajo Middle School 505-721-5300

52 August 2021

Nadine Gonzales – Thoreau Middle School Tell me about yourself: I am Nadine Gonzales, and I am from the neighboring community of Grants. I am the mother of two adult children, ages 20 and 23. I am very connected to both the Grants community and the McKinley County community. I live in Grants, and I raised my family here. I came to school in Gallup and earned my bachelor’s degree from UNM Gallup.

I have been in education since 2002 and I have taught Kindergarten, 6th grade, 7th grade and ELA (English Language Arts). I have nearly 20 years of educational experience as well as two years of that as a school principal in the Grants School District. Last year I taught ELA at Thoreau Middle School, and I am truly excited about my new role as principal.

What made you become an educator? I decided in the 8th grade that I was going to be a teacher. I had many teachers that positively influenced my interest in education. I graduated high school in 1996, received my bachelors from UNM and my MA from Grand Canyon University in 2015.

What is your Role/Vision? Mid School is already a really unique experience. The students are heavily influenced by their surroundings and the people in their lives. We as educators are also in a unique position to be a positive influence on these students. My role as principal is to pull everyone together - staff, students and the community. As principal, I believe it is important that we as a school and community are all in the trenches together.

Collaboration is the key to success and overcoming obstacles.

Thoreau Middle School 505-721-4900

Lucinda Bitsoi – Tohatchi Middle School Tell me about yourself: Ya’at’eeh (hello) my name is Lucinda Bitsoi, I am haltsooi, (meadow people, born for Naneesht’eezhi Tachinii (red running into the water) My maternal grandfathers are Kinyaa’aanii (towering house) my paternal grandfathers are Ashiihi (salt people) I am from the community of Naschitti, New Mexico. I am married and have 3 grown children and one grandson. I am an alumnus of Tohatchi high school.

What made you want to become an educator? When I was in high school, I really did not know what I wanted to do as far as a career, I thought about just attending college, not really knowing what I wanted to do. I started a job with the community pre-school, where I enjoyed learning new skills and working with the children, I then worked at the high school as an assistant with special needs students, where I decided that I would like to become a teacher, I have been teaching high school students for the past 20 years as a Navajo Language & culture teacher. Teaching is very rewarding in various ways, I enjoy working with students, seeing students learn and become motivated about learning, seeing the impact and rewards of being in education has made me the educator I am today. Inspiring students to be the best they can be and that they are important individuals. Now I move forward in this field of education as a leader and hope to inspire the students, the teachers, the staff, and the parents of the community.

What interests you? I enjoy sewing and traveling (when we can). I enjoy evening walks, being with family, friends and my pet puppies. I enjoy all types of music, country and love 70’s music.

What is your Role/Vision? I am excited for the 2021-22 school year, as principal of Tohatchi middle school. I look forward to working with the communities of Tohatchi, Naschitti, Mexican Springs, Coyote Canyon and Twin Lakes. I would like to lead and allow our students to reach their potential and allow for consistency in attaining education goals and success. Developing skills for our students in all areas of learning in Math, English, Science, Social Studies, the elective classes, and incorporating technology and cultural relevancy, “Together Molding Scholars” is our vision for our students. “Naasji’ niha’alchini ba adeet’i, nizhonigo idaholaah dooleel (we will move forward to work for our children so that they may learn in a beautiful way)

Tohatchi Middle School 505-721-4900

HIGH SCHOOLS Brittainy Garro – Crownpoint High School Tell me about yourself: I am a wife and mom to two energetic, fun, and sweet kids. As a child, I grew up near Allison, CO and attended school in Ignacio, CO. I played volleyball and track and eventually received a scholarship to play volleyball in college. I loved living in the country and learning hard work. My family,

including my 92- and 93-year-old grandparents, still live on our family’s land and continue to haul their own water, chop their own wood, care for the land (we even put out fires) and utilize the resources around them. My father built on his own the house my sister and I grew up in. I have a lot of pride and passion for growing up in the country and bringing that understanding to the beautiful community of Crownpoint.

What made you want to become an educator? I am a proud alumnus from Eastern New Mexico University. Go Greyhounds!! I graduated from ENMU with my bachelor’s in biology and received my master’s in educational leadership.

What interests you? My main interests are being outdoors and spending time with my family. We enjoy skiing, hiking, and camping every year. I love gardening and sitting on the porch watching birds and hummingbirds.

What Role/Vision? As the principal at Crownpoint High School my vision is to bring rigor and opportunities to Crownpoint students that will propel their futures and prepare them for the career they choose. I plan on accomplishing this by capitalizing on our 6 pathways and taking advantage of local resources to create internships and job apprenticeships.

Crownpoint High School 505-721-1600

David Gibbons – Gallup Central High School Tell me About Yourself: I am David Gibbons. I grew up in this area and am a product of Gallup-McKinley County Schools. My wife and I have four wonderful children. We love living in this beautiful part of New Mexico. I have 18 years of experience in education. As a classroom educator I primarily taught Mathematics, but I also had the privilege of teaching Japanese, Music, and Film. I also enjoyed nine years working as an athletic director. I am excited for a new school year and the opportunity to work with the students, parents, and staff at Gallup Central High School.

What made you want to become and educator? Initially I intended on pursuing a career that was not related to education. While living in Japan I had opportunities to teach, and I recognized in myself a passion for teaching. When I returned, I set out to become a teacher and I have been involved in education ever since. Each student has tremendous potential and considers it a great privilege to contribute to student success.

What interests you? Hobbies: I enjoy spending time with my family playing sports and playing music. My favorite sport is basketball, and my favorite instrument is the guitar. Activities: Most of my time outside of school is spent on family and church activities. We enjoy spending time outdoors, especially paddle boarding. Music: I listen to everything, but I am not a big fan of pop country.

What is your Role/Vision? I believe my role as principal is to lead for student success. The intent of my instructional leadership, communication, operations management, program development, and professional development is to promote student achievement. My vision is an engaged learning community that recognizes the value of education, provides structure and support for learning, and sets students on a trajectory for life-long success.

Gallup Central High School 505-721-2400

Tammy Hall – Gallup High School Tell me about yourself: I grew up in the Midwest but have worked for GMCS in various positions for over 30 years, so I consider Gallup my home.

What is your educational background: What made you want to become an educator? In high school I read the book “A Boy Called It”. This book gave me insight into how a caring adult can positively impact the life of a struggling child.

What are your interests outside of school? I enjoy gardening, camping, and traveling.

What is your Role/Vision? Educators have the power to change the direction of students and can positively influence the lives of future generations. To this end, my goal is to support teachers so they can assist students in developing the skills and knowledge they need to successfully meet their post-secondary college and/or career goals.

Gallup High School 505-721-2500

Jessica Rodriguez: Hiroshi Miyamura High School Tell me about yourself: I come from the great state of Texas. I started with GMCS as a teacher for Thoreau Middle School where I fell in love with this unique community. I was made school leader for the 202021 school year and ended the year as the new head principal at Hiroshi Miyamura High School. I am very excited about my role as principal and welcome the opportunity to see how I can help to improve the fut ures of our students.

What is your educational background? I received my Bachelor of Science in Biochemistry, and my Master of Education in Secondary Education and I am currently working on my Doctorate in Organizational Leadership. I originally chose education because I love helping others. I can see how the influence of just one person could directly

Meet our GMCS Principals August 2021

53

impact someone’s life and make an enormous difference.

What are your interests outside of school? I enjoy spending time doing crafts, painting, and enjoying music. I am also the proud mama of my two beloved fur babies.

What is your Role/Vision? Overall, my goal is to take MHS to new heights. My vision centers on the “whole child” and how MHS and leadership can build a skillset for each student that will help them to succeed long after they have graduated.

Hiroshi Miyamura High School 505-721-1900

Sharmyn Munoz – McKinley Academy Tell me about yourself: I grew up in Thoreau, NM where I graduated from high school. I went to college in Idaho and Arizona where I received college rodeo scholarships. After graduating from the University of Arizona, I moved to Gallup and married George. I have two sons, Zane, and Landon.

Zane finished college during Covid and owns a paving company in Gallup. Landon is a commercial pilot and will be a Senior in college at NAU next year.

What made you want to become an educator? I graduated from the University of Arizona with a business degree, majoring in Management Information Systems. I moved back home to NM and began looking for a job around Gallup. I was interested in working for the City or UNM, but nothing panned out. Then I got a call from my old high school principal, Mr. Muzingo, who was an Assistant Superintendent for GMCS. He heard I moved back home with a business degree and asked me if I had any interest in teaching business at the high school level.

He told me about a new school they planned to open in the Fall, an alternative school (Central High). I was hired to teach business in the Fall of 1994. Later, I became interested in educational leadership and went on to earn two master’s degrees in education and a certificate in Psychology. I love working with teenagers!

What interests you? Hobbies: Rodeo, flying, traveling, and spending time with family. Activities: Walking, writing, reading, riding horses, fishing.

Music: Country, 80’s, 90’s, Classic Rock What is your Role/Vision? In my position as the principal at McKinley Academy, I try to help high school students learn to navigate the college setting.

I spend a lot of time interviewing prospective students, helping students overcome obstacles, and making their dual credit experience as meaningful as possible. My vision is that we can offer every student who is ready for college courses the opportunity to obtain their associate degree or accumulate as many general education requirements as possible before they graduate from high school. We are in the process of developing a Computer Science pathway at McKinley Academy. This will allow students to gain knowledge and experience in the computer field and lead into the field of cybersecurity. We started the district wide early college program three years ago with 250 students. This year we will have 425 students attending McKinley Academy. I think we may top out at around 500 students eventually.

McKinley Academy 505-721-4200

Dr. Roberta Tayah – Navajo Pine High School Tell me about yourself: I am Dine, originally from Chinle, AZ. I have been in education for over 30 years.

What made you want to become an educator? I became a teacher and principal before I became a mother. I wanted to teach children to read as I enjoyed many genres of children literature and wanted children to enjoy reading. I have a passion for collecting children’s books for all ages and started my own library at home.

My own children were born into a house full of books and they all took to reading at an early age.

What interests you? I enjoy beadwork, walking, and traveling. I enjoy going to Indian Casinos and giving back to Native tribes.

I love all types of music. Recently, I’ve been listening to Navajo gospel so I can translate to English to test my own Navajo language skills. I love reading and writing on Native Education issues. I enjoy long walks and desire to get back into running soon.

What Role/Vision? I want to be a positive role model to students, teachers, staff, and community members that the education of their children matters by educators in GMCS.

Navajo Pine High School 505-721-3600

Lanny Ray – Ramah High School Tell me about yourself: I’m a lifelong resident of Zuni and Ramah NM. I graduated from Zuni High School and went to work for Kerr-McGee Nuclear Corporation right out of high school in the uranium mining and milling industry.

What made you want to become an educator? I became an educator after seeing the need for schools to teach students the skills that auto mechanics, welding and carpenters need to be successful in each of those industries. Through my training and experience in the uranium industry I was able to begin my career in education as a vocational teacher teaching each of those subjects. Over time I continued my education and received National Board Teacher certification as

54 August 2021

well as a master’s in administration which led me to become the principal at Ramah High School. I try to continue to learn something new every day.

What interests you? I enjoy playing music, working on cars and heavy equipment. I also enjoy building instruments like guitars and violins. I like all kinds of music from old country to heavy metal.

What Role/Vision? We are continually working to improve Ramah High School through the implementation of programs such as our Career Pathways where we can offer pathways in Health Science, Manufacturing, Transportation and STEM as well as our College Associates track through GMCS McKinley Academy.

Ramah High School 505-721-3800

Lawrence Sena – Thoreau High School Your Education: BA in History and Elementary Education (NMHU) – Master of Science in Curriculum and Instruction (WGU) – currently working on Educational Doctorate in Educational Leadership (NCU) What made you want to become and educator? I really enjoyed coaching youth sports and realized that working with youth was an extremely rewarding endeavor. I decided that I would change my major and go into education. I have been in education for 25 years; working as a teacher at all levels from 4-12 grades. I have been an Athletic Director, Transportation Director and have been the Principal at Thoreau High School for the past 5 years.

What interests you? I really enjoy watching sci-fi movies and reading.

Camping and sports. I enjoy all genres of music – but my preference is Metal/ Rock What is your Role/Vision? As the leader of Thoreau High School, I want to be part of creating an environment in which we help project success and excellence. No matter the circumstance or where a student comes from, we must help them develop a positive vision for themselves. We then as educators must help to transform the student’s attitude and help them understand how to take ownership of their vision.

Thoreau High School 505-721-4500

Kristi Del Curto - Tohatchi High School Tell me about yourself: My name is Kristi Del Curto, I am originally from Gallup NM and graduated from Gallup High School. I have a master’s degree in Curriculum & Instruction, I have been in education for 18 years and have been able to teach and work in many capacities. This is my 2nd year as the Tohatchi High School principal, and I am honored to have been given the opportunity to work with such a great community, staff, and students.

What made you want to become an educator? I have always wanted to be a teacher, but I had never taken it seriously until I talked with my old teacher from Red Rock School. I had always admired her, and she was the inspiration that made me go back to college and get my degree.

What interests you? I like to make t-shirts with my Cricut machine. I enjoy camping and shooting my bow. I love country music, but I listen to almost everything.

What is your Role/Vision? My vision for Tohatchi is to build a community that is effective in building relationships with students’ staff, parents, and community members. Tohatchi will be a safe and collaborative environment.

My role will be to facilitate all the needs of our school so that we will be the best that Tohatchi can be.

Tohatchi High School 505-721-4800

Kelly Morris – Tse Yi Gai High School Tell me about yourself: My name is Kelly Morris, and I am the principal of Tse Yi Gai High School. I have been in education for 12 years, 10 of which are in GMCS. Prior to becoming a principal, I was a math teacher at Miyamura High School.

What is your educational background: What made you want to become and educator? I have wanted to be a teacher since I was 7 years old. Math was always my favorite subject, and it was the subject I would teach when I played school as a young child.

What are your interests outside of school? I love to be outdoors! I hike, camp, fish, and ride my ATV. I also enjoy gardening, watching movies, reading, playing sudoku and listening to country and Christmas music, they are my favorite.

What Role/Vision do you see for yourself as principal of Tse Yi Gai: As a principal I want to inspire my staff to be better and inspire my students to seek out careers that interest them after high school.

Tse Yi Gai High School 505-721-5500

Gallup Journey T-shirts are Available Now!

gallup

Jo u r n e y

Mention this ad and get a FREE pair of Powerstep® Shoe Inserts after your New Patient Appointment!

The Free Community Magazine

$15 - Come by the Gallup

Journey office at 210 East Aztec and get yours!

August 2021

55

AUGUST 2021

August 8 The Plateau Sciences Society In-person meeting, 2:00 pm 2302 Mariyana Street, in Gallup.

After a brief business meeting, there will be a work session to clean out the Red Mesa Center basement and garage, for curbside pickup. For more information, you may email radioplay@usa.net, or call Martin Link at 505-863-6459, Contact Rachel Kaub, or 505-9805437 cell & text Red Rock Strings present works by Handel, Beethoven and Mozart 4:00 pm First United Methodist Church.

Admission is free.

“Vintage, Collectibles & More” A Sale to Benefit Our Community Friday August 13 and Saturday August 14 11:00 am to 4:00 pm Angela’s Café East Room 201 E. Highway 66, Gallup — Use East Entrance Non-profits participating include: McKinley Citizens’ Recycling Council, Plateau Sciences Society,

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 5246 Gallup, NM 87305

56 August 2021

Relay For Life, HMS Eco-Tees, Friends of the Celts, Friends of the Octavia Fellin Public Library, and individuals who pledge 10% or more of their profits from the event to a local charity.

Historic bottles, costume jewelry, ladies’ hats and purses, Southwest books, magazines, stamps, buttons, toys, posters, washboard, crock, Celtic items, unique tee shirts, eco-totes, pair of snowshoes and more!

Come & Shop some Great Deals!

Find old, unusual, or special-toyou items. Help local non-profits with your purchases.

For information: Linda 505-9055966 or betsywindisch@yahoo.com

Tuesday Evening Virtual Artist Talks August 17, 24 and 31, 6pm LIVE on the @gallupARTS And @ ART123Gallery Facebook pages.

Chat with featured artists from ART123 Gallery’s “The August Show: All in One” about their creative processes.

August 21 A Luminaria Lights of Hope & Love Evening 8:00-10:00 pm

Relay Luminarias and Lights of Hope (American Cancer SocietyCancer Action Network) bags will be set up at the New Mexico Cancer Center, 2240 College Drive. Drive by to purchase a bag or make a donation from your car. Board and Team members will be available to accept your monetary gift, and to assist in your purchasing a Luminaria Bag with a $5 minimum donation.

More Information: Joyce 505- 8621457 bleedingpurple39@ gmail.com

August 13 A Biker’s Ballad Sponsored by Silver Stallion and the El Morro Theatre FREE to the public 6:00 pm, El Morro Theatre August 14 ART123 Gallery The August Show: All in One Virtual Show Opening: 11:30am on the @gallupARTS Facebook and Instagram pages.

“Open House”-Style Show Opening: 12 - 4pm 13 artists. 36 works. Painting. Paper.

Mixed Media. Sculpture. Digital Art. Found Object Art. Drawing.

Poetry. 1 show.

El Malpais and El Morro National Monuments Announces Paid Internship Opportunity El Malpais and El Morro National Monuments, in partnership with the Student Conservation Association (SCA), are pleased to announce internship opportunities in Visitor Services. These paid internships will provide seasonal employment for promising college students or recent college graduates affiliated with local tribal communities to include Ramah Navajo, Pueblo of Acoma, Pueblo of Laguna, or Pueblo of Zuni.

Applicants will work closely with NPS staff in either the El Malpais Visitor Center or the El Morro Visitor Center. The experience will center on Interpretation and Visitor Services Training and will include applying their new skills in the areas of customer service, place-based interpretation, interpreting controversial issues, public speaking, and the development of interpretive media.

Applicants must be 17-35 years of age and currently enrolled in school or are recent graduates. This is a great opportunity to learn about the National Park Service while gaining valuable experience and skills.

For more information about the positions or how to apply, please contact Lisa Dittman at 505-285-4641 ext. 218 or email lisa_dittman@nps.gov. To learn more about the parks visit nps.gov/elma or nps.gov/elmo. To learn more about the SCA please visit thesca.org.

Call For Volunteers Ceremonial Board will hold a modified version of the Ceremonial with a Rodeo and Exhibit Hall Art Show August 11-14, 2021 We are looking for volunteers to help at the following times: Saturday, August. 7 Artist Check-in 7:30 am – 7:00 pm ONLY DAY FOR ARTIST CHECK-IN for the juried art show!

Sunday, August 8 Judging - 7:30 am – 7:00pm August 9 -11 Monday - Wednesday Set up crews - 9:00 am – 4:00 pm Wednesday, August 11 Opening Night 5:30 pm – 10:00 pm Thursday, August 12 Greeting, Selling, etc. 10:00 am -- 6:00 pm Friday, August 13 9:30 am -- 8:00 pm Saturday, August 14 11:00 am – 8:00 pm Sunday, August 15 Check out / Clean-up 8:00 am – 6:00 pm Interested in volunteering?

Have any questions, please call / email either: Joyce Graves - 505-862-1457 / bleedingpurple39@gmail.com (new email) Linda Shelton - 505-297-9515 / adnil.notlehs@gmail.com

Save The Date:

September 10-11 Gallup High School Class of ‘76 45th Class Reunion El Rancho Hotel For More Information: Carol Gonzales – (602) 574-8144 – cgonzales12@yahoo.com Michael Schaaf – (505) 399-8596

The El Morro Arts Council presents: August 7th; Ancient Way Music Festival in the beautiful Zuni Mountains 4:00 pm -8:00 pm. $10 donation: All Day Pass Burgers and More Come for Dinner!

August 22. Polyphony Marimba! Progressive Zimbabwe Style Marimba Music Marimba lesson 4:00 pm Call for reservations 505 783-4076 Concert and Dancing! at 7:00 pm Donation $5

UPCOMING EVENTS Boardmeeting: August 2nd

First Day of School: August 18th Boardmeeting: August 23rd

505-721-1000 PLEASE CONTACT YOUR CHILD’S SCHOOL FOR INFORMATION ON UPCOMING

OPEN HOUSE EVENTS

SCHOOL SUPPLIES AND TECH DEVICES WILL BE PROVIDED FOR THE 2021-22 SCHOOL YEAR.

Contact your student's school for more information

Both events outdoors At The Old School Gallery: One mile East of El Morro National Monument on Route 53 www.theoldschoolgallery.org 505 783-4710 and on Facebook August 2021

57

I should have gone to Castle Furniture first.

THAT’S WHERE YOU GET THE VERY BEST VALUES!

City Electric SHOE

SHOP

• Every Day Low Prices • Family Owned & Operated • Featuring Top Name Brands • Wide Selection of Styles • Friendly Personalized Service

WE ARE • In StoreOPEN!!!

Financing

• Affordable Monthly Terms

WE ARE OPEN!!!

GET YOUR MOCCASINS HERE FOR THE 2021 CEREMONIAL!

OVER 3000 IN STOCK! 505.863.5252 | CityElectricShoe.com | 230 W. Coal Ave.

58 August 2021

www.castlefurnituregallup.com

Electronics • Appliances • Carpet 1308 C Metro Ave. • Gallup, NM 87301 (505) 863-9559 • 1-800-704-4615 • FAX (505) 722-6801 Over 55,000 square feet of home furnishings in two showrooms. © Copyright 2016 Banker & Brisebois Co. AD331A

August 2021

59

The Ceremonial Fitness Challenge

5K Trail Run to Celebrate Ceremonial Try the Mentmore Trailhead McGaffey Trail System Red Rock Pyramid Trail Church Rock Trail Keep track of your time...Turn in your pictures or Strava info by August 20th to the gallupjourney.com

Top 10 times get this year’s 99th Ceremonial T-Shirt Free!

60 August 2021

Healthcare Services available in Gallup Hospital

is pleased to announce that Our firm is accepting new cases in the areas of:

Grant L. Foutz

• Estate Planning has joined our• Real firm.Estate

Foutz will be accepting cases • Mr. Probate • Family Lawin the

areas of Real Estate,• Criminal Family Law, Defense Criminal Defense, Auto Accidents, • Employment Auto Accidents andLaw Personal•Injury.

• Trust Administration • Business Formation

• Personal Injury

Our Firm is also accepting cases in the areas of Estate Planning, Estate/Trust 101 W. Aztec Ave., Suite A Administration, Employment Law, and Gallup, NM 87301 505-722-9121 Business Formation. www.rf-lawfirm.com

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

1901 Red Rock Drive, Gallup, NM 87301 (505) 863-7000 24/7 Emergency Services Cardiology Diagnostic Imaging Laboratory Pain Injection Sleep Medicine Women's Health & Birthing Center

College Clinic

2111 College Drive, Gallup, NM 87301 (505) 863-1820 Open 8am - 5pm, Monday - Friday COVID Testing/Vaccines Family Medicine Infectious Diseases Internal Medicine Mental Health Services Occupational Health Pediatrics

Family Medicine Residency

2111 College Drive, Gallup, NM 87301 (505) 863-1855 Open 8am - 5pm, Monday - Friday Family Medicine Pediatrics Women's Health

Rapid Care

1850 U.S. Rte 66, Gallup, NM 87301 (505) 488-2603 Open 8am - 5pm Closed Saturday & Sunday DOT Physicals Employment/Sports Physicals Urgent Care

Red Rock Specialty Clinic

1900 Red Rock Drive, Gallup, NM 87301 (505) 863-7200 Open 8am - 5pm, Monday - Friday ENT - National Sinus Institute General Surgery Hand Surgery - San Juan Plastic Surgery Neurology Orthopedics Podiatry Urology Women's Health/OB-GYN

Rehabilitation/Wellness Center

1910 Red Rock Drive, Gallup, NM 87301 (505) 863-7136 Open 8am - 5pm, Monday - Friday Occupational Therapy Physical Therapy

Home Health & Hospice

211 East Aztec Avenue, Gallup, NM 87301 (505) 863-7041 Open 8am - 5pm, Monday - Friday Comfort Care Physical Therapy Skilled Nursing Care RMCHCS - 1901 Red Rock Drive - Gallup, NM 87301 Telephone: 505-863-7000 - VISIT US AT www.rmch.org

AT L A M O N TA Ñ I TA C O - O P,

3x

THE GLASS

THE IMPACT

I S A L WAYS

HALF FULL C ORPOR ATE CHAIN

LOCAL CO-OP

It’s the Local Multiplier Effect, and it’s why more than 3 times the money stays in New Mexico when spent locally.

STOP IN FOR LOCAL & ORGANIC FOOD THAT MAKES A DIFFERENCE 1 0 5 E A S T C O A L A V E • W W W. L A M O N TA N I TA . C O O P August 2021

61

Can you find this month’s

Gallup Journey TREASURE? Where tee pees once stood And flags of Nations flew Dancers showed off regalia A treasure awaits

Treasure was found by: Kristy Klinger and Haase Bernd

SESSIONS BY INTERNET OR PHONE Dr. Vicki Handfield

Clinical psychologist

Mason Music Studio Doug Mason

B.A. in Music Education

Practicing for over 30 years. Treating anxiety, depression, and life issues.

In Gallup 609-841-9159 drvickihandfield.com

62 August 2021

479.214.1764 (No Text)

PIANO • CELLO • VIOLIN • GUITAR • SAXAPHONE • TRUMPET

Beautiful Home For Sale 1110 Susan Avenue 4,200 + Square Feet Situated on 9 plus acres Spacious floor plan with panoramic views Gourmet Kitchen Five Bedrooms 4 1/2 baths Guest Casita with private entrance Listed Price: $759,000 - Zillow: 1110 Susan Ave.

For More Information Please Call: 602-908-8229

August 2021

63

Life Is Too Short to Just Wear Black Socks

By Ken Riege USAF Veteran

T

This was told to me a few years ago by Vietnam War MOH Recipient Mr. Allen Lynch at an event that I attended with Hershey.

The story went like this (to the best of my knowledge): It was a Friday evening and the banquet part of the event had finished where Mr. Lynch was the keynote speaker. Mr. Lynch spoke of being bullied as a child and why he joined the Army in 1964. Back at the hotel in the “Hospitality Suite” Mr. Lynch shared more stories of growing up and time spent in the Army. I had met him at different events, where I always presented him

Mr. Lynch showing off his socks. with the proper military salute that a Medal of Honor Recipient has earned and telling him how much of an honor it is to see him again.

Here I am with Mr. Allen Lynch

64

August 2021

Somehow this visit was a bit different, because after I had rendered him with a salute, Mr. Lynch looked at me and said, “Hey Ken (I was so surprised that he knew my name until I realized I was still wearing my guest badge and Lanyard with my name on it) what color socks are you wearing? I kind of chuckled, but when he asked again, I said (in a military manner), “black socks sir.” He said let me see them. So, I pulled my pant leg up a bit so he could see my socks. He smiled and said (to all of us at the table) I would like to share a story with you. “A few years back, a dear friend had asked me this exact same question and I replied just as Ken did, by saying “black socks.” Mr. Lynch went on to say, that his friend had told him you know what Allen; life is too short to just wear black socks. So, Mr. Lynch decided from that day forward he would no longer wear ordinary black socks.

TREES continued from page 45

for the first time or take it to the full extreme and go skydiving at the age of 92. I do not think anyone saw that one coming. Only you can decide on the changes you may or may not want to make to shake things up a bit.

There are so many different things we can do to make our lives a little more unpredictable. I know a few years ago I would have never worn a pair of Sesame Street Socks or ordered glasses off the internet, but if I can make small changes anyone can.

These are the socks I am wearing as I write this story.

Now Mr. Lynch went on to say that there is more to this story than just changing your socks. For him it started the wheels of life in motion from being such a strait-laced standoffish type of guy to being more engaged. He said this also helped prompt him to write his book “From Zero to Hero, from bullied kid to a warrior.” By the way this book can be found on Amazon.

Maybe when this pandemic is behind us, and all is back at 100% (which by the time this story is printed we should be there) Gallup should have a crazy sock day. Why, because it is silly and because we can. We live in the greatest country in the world and have the freedom to do pretty much whatever we want within reason of course. I think that instead of saying “Why” we should say “Why Not.” Again, within reason.

I wanted to thank the Gallup Journey for allowing me to go outside of my box to write these So back to the title of the story, stories to share which is something what does that mean, “Life is too a few years ago I would have never short to just wear black socks.” Is that all there is to it, just change your been comfortable doing. style of socks and life becomes less I would like to ask my fellow boring. I am not so sure about that, maybe for some, but like Mr. Lynch Gallupians a huge favor. It is reported that socks are the #1 item said it is a start. I think that by needed at homeless shelters. The saying life is too short to just wear next time you are at the store, grab a black socks can be translated many ways. For me it means do not settle package of socks and drop them off or become complacent in life, shake at a homeless shelter, or maybe stop by the Gallup’s Veterans Helping things up a bit and do stuff that Veterans Center at Ford Canyon Park no one would expect. Maybe it is wearing crazy socks, changing your and drop them off. They will ensure that these clean new socks get to hair style/color, or getting a tattoo people who need them the most.

A

s with every story I end with a quote from the Medal of Honor Quote Book and since this story is about Mr. Allen Lynch, I am using his quote which is as follows:

“I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me.

Philippians 4:13.”

August 2021

65

Milan Sklenar Memory Following jeep trails and hiking the Southwest was another passion as he photographed the beauty surrounding him.

Milan left his native country Czechoslovakia and emigrated to Vancouver, Canada in 1968 to escape the repression of the Soviet government as it took over his country. He traveled throughout Canada, sometimes on bicycle and sometimes hitchhiking, but always with a camera. It was an adventurous life but fraught with poverty, homelessness and hard work. Nevertheless, he was able to

M

ilan Sklenar was a familiar figure around downtown Gallup for many years. Always with his Leica camera in hand, he smiled and cajoled people into allowing him to snap their picture. He enjoyed his photography studio, Crashing Thunder Gallery, and held monthly art shows for over 30 years.

He supported young local artists by offering them their first shows and brought artists from around the world to Gallup to display their work at the Gallery.

Crashing Thunder became an engaging blend of a New York and European salon atmosphere with art, books, conversation and celebration.

Teaching photography, film and art history at the UNM Branch Campus was also an important part of his life. He loved his students and felt they kept his art and perspective full of life and energy.

66 August 2021

Memoria

earn a Bachelor Degree in Fine Art at Concordia University in Montreal, and then moved to New York City to attend the New School of Social Research for graduate work in media studies. Moving on to Los Angeles and finally Fort Defiance and Gallup, he focused his art on street photography and had a special gift for capturing the moment with humor and compassion.

Milan passed away on December 22, 2019 at home in his beloved Hummingbird Canyon. He is missed by his family and many friends. “Keep taking pictures!”

l Show fo

r Milan Sk

Septemb er 18, 20 21 4 to 9pm Crashing Thunder Gallup, N Gallery M

lenar

GALLUP McKINLEY COUNTY SCHOOLS | 2021-2022 CALENDAR 4

Independence Day

JULY ‘21 S

18

6 13

11 7 8 & 11 14 31

M

T

Indigenous Day End of Q1 Fall Break Early Release Halloween

Th

F

S

1

2

3

S

M

T

W

Th

F

S

1

4

5

6

7

8

9

10

2

3

4

5

6

7

8

11

12

13

14

15

16

17

9

10

11

12

13

14

15

18

19

20

21

22

23

24

16

17

18

19

20

21

22

25

26

27

28

29

30

31

23

24

25

26

27

28

29

30

31

First Day for Students

Labor Day P/T Conference

W

JANUARY ‘22

AUGUST ‘21

FEBRUARY ‘22

S

M

T

W

Th

F

S

1 8

2 9

3 10

4 11

5 12

6 13

7 14

S

M

6

7

15

16 17

18

19

20

21

13

14

15

16

22

23 24

25

26

27

28

20

21

22

23

29

30 31

27

28

SEPTEMBER ‘21 S

M

T

T

1 8

W

Th

F

S

2 9

3 10

4 11

5 12

17

18

19

24

25

26

MARCH ‘22

W

Th

F

S

1

2

3

4

S

M

W

Th

1

T

2

3

4

F

5

S

5

6

7

8

9

10

11

6

7

8

9

10

11

12

12

13

14

15

16

17

18

13

14

15

16

17

18

19

19

20

21

22

23

24

25

20

21

22

23

24

25

26

26

27

28

29

30

27

28

29

30

31

OCTOBER ‘21

APRIL ‘22

S

M

T

W

Th

F

S

S

M

T

W

Th

1

2

3

4

5

6

7

8

9

3

4

10

11

12

13

14

15

16

10

11

17

18

19

20

21

22

23

17

18

19

20

24

25

26

27

28

29

30

24

25

26

27

F

S

1

2

5

6

7

8

9

12

13

14

15

16

21

22

23

28

29

30

3 6 17

Students Return Early Release M.L. King Day

7 21

P/T Conference Presidents’ Day

11 End of Q3 14-18 Spring Break 24 Early Release

15 17 25

Good Friday Easter Sunday Navajo Sovereignty

30 31

Memorial Day Last Day of School

17

Juneteenth Observed

31

11 Veterans Day 22-26 Thanksgiving Break 25 Thanksgiving Day

17 20-24 27-31 25

End of Semester 1 Winter Break Winter Break Christmas Day

NOVEMBER ‘21 S

MAY ‘22

M

T

W

Th

F

S

S

M

1

2

3

4

5

6

1

2

3

4

5

6

7

7

8

9

10

11

12

13

8

9

10

11

12

13

14

14

15

16

17

18

19

20

15

16

17

18

19

20

21

21

22

23

24

25

26

27

22

23

24

25

26

27

28

28

29

30

29

30

31

DECEMBER ‘21 S

M

T

T

W

Th

F

S

JUNE ‘22

W

Th

F

S

1

2

3

4

S

M

T

W

Th

F

S

1

2

3

4

5

6

7

8

9

10

11

5

6

7

8

9

10

11

12

13

14

15

16

17

18

12

13

14

15

16

17

18

19

20

21

22

23

24

25

19

20

21

22

23

24

25

26

27

28

29

30

31

26

27

28

29

30

Every Friday is Early Release.

There will also be Early Release on October 14th, January 6th and March 24th