Gallup Journey Magazine - October 2022

OCTOBER CITY UPDATE

NATIONAL FIRE PREVENTION WEEK OCTOBER

In 1871, Chicago suffered one of the most devastating fires in our U.S. history. This tragic fire is known as the Great Chicago Fire that started the night of October 8th and quickly spread across the city. Firefighters with the help of much needed rain were able to extinguish the fire on October 10th. The fire left an estimated 300 people dead, 100,000 homeless with more than 17,000 structures burned or destroyed with an estimated $200 million in damages. There are many theories on how the fire may have started, popular legend is that a cow belonging to Mrs. O’Leary knocked over a lantern setting the barn on fire, which led to setting the whole city on fire. The cause of the fire was never determined, although there is no truth to this story the fire did occur at or near the barn. Fire Prevention Week was established to commemorate the Great Chicago Fire.

In 1922, the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) sponsored the public observance of Fire Prevention Week. In 1925, President Calvin Coolidge proclaimed Fire Prevention Week a national observance, making it the longest-running health observance in our country. In his 1925 proclamation President Coolidge wrote “It is highly desirable that every effort be made to reform the conditions which have made it possible so vast a destruction of the national wealth. To this end, for a long time past it has been customary to set aside a week in each year, during which the need of fire prevention be emphasized. It is important that this practice be continued.”

The Gallup Fire Department is teaming up with the National Fire Protection Association® (NFPA®)—to celebrate the 100th anniversary of Fire Prevention Week TM, October 9-15, 2022. This year’s campaign, “Fire won’t wait. Plan your escape TM”, works to educate everyone about simple but important actions they can take to keep themselves and those around them safe from home fires.

“Today’s homes burn faster than ever. You may have as little as two minutes (or even less time) to safely escape a home fire from the time the smoke alarm sounds. Your ability to get out of a home during a fire depends on early warning from smoke alarms and advance planning,” said Lorraine Carli, vice president of Outreach and Advocacy at NFPA.

The Gallup Fire Department encourages all residents to embrace the 2022 Fire Prevention Week theme.

“It’s important for everyone to plan and practice a home fire escape. Everyone needs to be prepared in advance, so that they know what to do when the smoke alarm sounds. Given that every home is different, every home fire escape plan will also be different,” said Gallup Fire Marshal Jon Pairett. “Have a plan for everyone in the home. Children, older adults, and people with disabilities may need assistance to wake up and get out. Make sure that someone will help them!”

The Gallup Fire Department wants to share these key home fire escape planning tips:

• Make sure your plan meets the needs of all your family members, including those with sensory or physical disabilities.

• Smoke alarms should be installed inside every sleeping room, outside each separate sleeping area, and on every level of your home. Smoke alarms should be interconnected so when one sounds, they all sound.

• Know at least two ways out of every room, if possible. Make sure all doors and windows open easily.

• Have an outside meeting place a safe distance from your home where everyone should meet.

• Practice your home fire drill at least twice a year with everyone in the household, including guests.

• Practice at least once during the day and at night.

The Gallup Fire Department is hosting a series of events in support of this year’s Fire Prevention Week campaign, “Fire won’t wait. Plan your escape.” including school and public events.

To find out more about Fire Prevention Week programs and activities in Gallup, please contact the Gallup Fire Department Fire Prevention Office at 505-726-5448.

Mayor Louie Bonaguidi Councilor Linda Garcia Councilor Michael Schaaf Councilor Sarah Piano Councilor Fran Palochak

Crashing Thunder Gallery

De Los ; and Rossi Bright’s Mystic Sisters. Philander Begay-RC Gorman Gallery

DJ Benally Art 123 Gallery

Gallery Show Opening: Immersed in Enchantment by Dana Aldis

A love letter to northwest New Mexico’s abundance of natural beauty spelled out in a series of 100 small works and large-scale animal and tree portraits.

Loom Indigenous Arts Gallery Presenting Hataaliinez Wheeler, A Journey of Personal Exploration

ArtsCrawl Family Craft

gallupARTS , in the Event Center:

Plate Jack-oLanterns”

a paper plate to create a jack-o-lantern decoration--compete with flickering

candle!

Thoughts From The West End

I can remember when we had our first child. The day we took her home from the hospital how scared my wife and I were. Here we are responsible for a human being when I don’t think we had yet learned to take care of ourselves. It wouldn’t be very long before we had three of these little humans and didn’t know what a day of rest was anymore. We had to have car seats, strollers for multiple kids, house somewhat child proofed, and lots of accessible snacks for always hungry children.

When we would get the chance to take the kids out into the world, I would always check out other families and mentally compare notes. If a family had old children that could take themselves to the bathroom or feed themselves, I always thought those aren’t real parents anymore. Real parents our like me, parents in the trenches everyday having to do all those little things for the kids. Then when the tiring day came to an end having to read a book and sit with them until they fell asleep.

Those days of young

The Ancient Way Café

E l M o r r o RV Pa r k a n d C a b i n s

The Ancient Way Cafe is gearing up for a busy season! Our days and hours of operation are Thursdays through Sundays from 9 am to 5 pm

Come tr y our Smokehouse BBQ Omelet with our mouthwatering House smoked Brisket, Huevos Rancheros, Ancient Way Burgers, Black Bean Burgers, Burritos, French Toast, and other breakfast and lunch delights. Plus we have a wide range of homemade desser ts to entice you!

S unday Barbeque Special Ever y S unday and all summer long we will ser ve lunch from our outdoor grill. O fferings will be our Amazing Burgers (plain, cheese and/or green chilies), 1/4 Chickens, Black Bean Burgers, Andouille S ausages on a stick, Cajun Catfish, and Hot Dogs. We will still be ser ving breakfast in the Cafe from 9 to 5 on S undays and regular menu will continue indoors if weather is inhospitable.”

Thank you for your ongoing love and suppor t! The management and staff of the AWC

El Morro RV Park, Cabins & Ancient Way Café elmorro nm com • elmorror v@gmail com • 505 783 4612

Near mile marker 46 on Hw y 53, one mile east of El Morro National Monument Entrance

children I sure do miss a bunch. Now when I see those young families with those babies, I think of how easy they have it. My children have real needs now. We have to drive them to their friends and events, buy car insurance for the older ones, have them on the family phone plan, and worry about them, out there in the real world.

I wonder what that next stage will be? One thing I am sure about, is that it will be the real parent stage and the hardest one yet.

Jpa-

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.

September Master Finishers

Valerie Barker  Pepita

Thomas Gomez

Thomas Gomez-JULY

Stephen Mahnke

Sarah Landavazo

Mary Allison Maureen Bia enrique pieras MUNCH

Richard L.

DK & Footies

N.T.N.

R Morris

Lois Becenti

Shelly

Audra Arviso

Alberta Kallestewa

Rebecca Bak

AJ Mitch

10 Welcome to Fall! Jpa

12 Durango Farmington Bicycle Tour

Neil Hannum – Aztec Adventures

13 Fall Festival Kate Brown

14 McCall’s Pumpkin Patch

15 Albuquerque Balloon Fiesta

16 The Community Pantry’s 2nd Annual Mummy 5k & Run

20 Upcoming Fundraisers Community Pantry

22 Walking in Beauty Daisy Arsenault

26 Zuni and Its Beauty Kenneth Maxymowich

Thanks to our Contributors this month:

Neil Hannum-Aztec Adventures

Kate Brown Kenneth Maxymowich Vicki Handfield

Michele Laughing-Reeves

Lois Harvey

Richard Rhor

Kendra Biava-The Therapy Academy Merrisha Livingston

Kenneth Riege The Community Pantry

30 Educational Childcare Vicki Handfield

36 Circle of Rock Life Michele Laughing-Reeves

38 Artiste Extraordinaire-Ruth Kamps Lois Harvey

A Nobel Task Richard Rohr

People Reading

Questions For Kendra Biava - The Therapy Academy

Collection of Summer Photos Merrisha Livingston

12s

Ultimate Sacrifice Kenneth Riege

Photo Contest

Publishers: Daisy & Jason Arsenault Chuck & Jenny Van Drunen

Managing Editor: Aileen Steigerwald

Staff: Christine Carter

Gallup Journey Magazine 505-722-3399

210 E. Aztec Ave.

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

Send your story to gallupjourney@gmail.com

PO Box 2187 • gallupjourney.com • gallupjourney@gmail.com

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

October 2022 Issue #219

Cover: She was cool when cool wasn’t cool.

DZuni Photography

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.

EasyMedium

MAKES YOU TURN TO ALCOHOL?"

9 out of 10 people said they turn to alcohol to not think about the pain they are going through, even if it's only for a while. The pain that all 9 of them were talking about is the death of a loved one. Grief goes deep, missing someone is brutal, but you have to FEEL IT, numbing it only creates more problems. Make your loved one prou d of you. Give the young ones in your life someone to look up to. Teach them that drinking is not the answer.

The Fall season is always magical in our Land of Enchantment!

We are brought into the season with the smell of roasting green chile and the beginnings of cool mornings.

It is also a time of festivals and unique events. In this issue we explore some fun ways to enjoy New Mexico and get outside.

If you are a pedaling junkie Aztec Adventures has put a Farmington to Durango Mountain bike challenge together.

El Morro Area Arts Council invites you to take part in their Fall Festival that will have art, food, vendors, and lots of family fun.

Albuquerque is home to the Albuquerque Balloon Fiesta that happens in early October and is always a great time.

You can’t have Fall without pumpkins and if you head to Moriarty, you will find McCall’s Pumpkin Patch and experience the season’s great offerings.

If you are wanting to stay close to home participate in the Gallup Community Food Pantry’s Mummy Fun Run that benefits surrounding and local families.

Work through the pages of the Gallup Journey to plan your fall events.

OCTOBER 22 Annual

Durango ~ Farmington Bicycle Tour

This year’s event will take place on October 22nd starting at Santa Rita Park in Durango, CO and finishing in Lions Wilderness Park in Farmington, NM.

History Of The Event:

A little history of the event starts back in 1991 when I raced the “Road Apple Rally” in Farmington, NM and while speaking with someone involved in the event, he mentioned that he had ridden from Farmington to Durango using the Backroads.

So, in late April of 1992, three friends of mine and I reversed the idea and rode from Durango to Farmington starting a tradition. I have done a variation of the ride every year since, sometimes more than once and sometimes skipping due to injuries. So, for basically 30 years I have had different stories with different friends through the years as we toured the majestic landscape of Northern San Juan County through Kiffen Canyon, also known as the Aztec Jungle, on to Farmington.

For more Information:

Link to the event sign-up page:

2022 — Durango to Farmington Bicycle Tour 2022 — Race Roster — Registration, Marketing, Fundraising

Neil Hannum - 970.759.2126 - Aztec Adventures

October 8 Fall Festival

A Celebration of Summer Rain, Harvest and Neighbors

11:30-4:30 located in the village of El Morro on hwy 53, east of El Morro National Monument.

The El Morro Area Arts Council and members of the El Morro Area Business community are pleased to invite you to our fall celebration. After such a lovely summer of rain and wildflowers, it’s time to get together and enjoy this beautiful place we call home.

The day will start on the grounds of the Old School Gallery with a rousing drum and didgeridoo opening by Toni Austin Allen and friends (Glen Burns on the didgeridoo). There will be vendors galore, some old beloveds from years past and new vendors from the Gallup area, Leandra Murphy and Ceah Wright.

At approximately 2 pm we will auction 20 tons of gravel donated by C&E so don’t miss out. The auction will also include a vintage parlor stove and a 4-wheel road blade.

The El Morro Area Arts Council is delighted to welcome back the Sillyettes, who performed at our music festival in 2021.The Sillyettes, from Gallup, will be playing before and after the auction, at 1:30pm and again at 2:30pm. Many thanks to Oso Internet Solutions for sponsoring this delightful group.

There will be drumming workshops led by Toni AustinAllen, a live beehive presentation, wool spinning & felting demonstration and heritage and homestead displays by members of the Ramah Farmer’s Market.

Also on the EMAAC Stage we are proud to offer the talents of Ed Tsunoda and the local group, Last Minute Quartet. To close out this jam-packed day, dance to the tunes of Thunder Ridge, beginning approximately 4pm. Thunder Ridge is a local cover band (Wade Aubecheon, Stan Carlson, George Dobbs, Anthony Lovato, Billy Sanders and Wayne Ramm) playing country, classic rock and blues.

While you are “in town”, check out Opo’s new El Morro location featuring the work of Be Sargent, Owl McCabe, Candace Grijalva and Dinner. North side of highway next to El Morro Feed and Seed

El Morro Feed and Seed will be offering face painting by Shawna Henio.

Thunderheart Healing, LLC ( E. Gregory Myers, DOM), located at the El Morro Area RV Park, will provide mini-health screens, information about Chinese Medicine and a selection of Chinese Herbal First Aid remedies.

The Ancient Way Cafe will be featuring pulled pork and smoked brisket by chef Anthony Lovato and deserts. Also providing food for the festival is Martha from Family Haven, selling her wonderful burritos and plates. Forstarr Farm will be offering delicious baked goods, Rebekah Henio will have tamales, bread and confetti popcorn and Roginia Adeky will be offering fry bread (blue corn, or wheat) and sweet treats.

Much gratitude to the El Morro Area Arts Council board members for their hard work in making this event happen. We look forward to the day and hope you will join us.

McCall’s Pumpkin Patch and Haunted Farm

Our Story-In 1996, Kevin McCall began farming at our current location in Moriarty, NM. Prior to that time, he had been working with his grandfather on a hog farm in Estancia. The first crops Kevin planted were alfalfa and pumpkins. He sold pumpkins to grocery stores across the country.

A dear friend, Vici Shoemaker, teaching for APS, asked if she could bring her class out to watch the pumpkins being harvested - so Kevin put the class on a wagon pulled behind a tractor, and took them out to the pumpkin field where they could see the pumpkins being hand-picked and placed in boxes to be sold. A young boy looked at Kevin and said, “Those are the boxes at Walmart!” Kevin recognized the need for kids, who often have no connection to agriculture today, to see where their food comes from and the process it takes to get produce into the stores.

And from there an idea was born...

After the birth of their first child in 1999, Kirsten, Kevin’s wife, quit her job as an English teacher and joined Kevin in the business. Together, along with their children, Morgan and Caleb, they built McCall’s Pumpkin Patch into what it is today.

Kevin continues to farm about 300 acres of alfalfa, corn, pinto beans, and, of course, pumpkins. Today, we no longer wholesale pumpkins, but still grow 50 acres that are individually picked by our many farm visitors every fall.

Our passion is not only for agriculture, but also for families, for friendships, for community. We have tried to create a place for friends and family to spend quality time together - creating memories that will last a lifetime.

In today’s economy, it is very difficult for small farmers to survive, and we feel extremely blessed that the Pumpkin Patch has allowed us to do so. We are grateful for the friendships we have made with other farmers running similar businesses across the U.S. These connections have given us an endless supply of ideas for the Pumpkin Patch and knowledge to navigate the somewhat unorthodox seasonal business. We are also grateful for the many, many community members who join us every fall to make this experience possible for so many guests. The operation could not exist without them.

We feel most thankful for the life this endeavor has provided for our family. The business has given a place for Kevin’s passion for agriculture to blend with Kirsten’s creativity, and it gave a place for our kids to learn the value of hard work (and we cannot express the gratitude we have for all our kids poured into this business while growing up). Our daughter, Morgan, with her mom’s creativity, has now graduated with a degree in Theater Arts and is currently working as the stage manager for Valley Youth Theatre in Phoenix, AZ. Our son, Caleb, with his Dad’s passion for agriculture, is in his junior year at WT, pursing a degree in Plant, Soil and Environmental Science. We look forward to the day he joins our business full-time.

We want to thank you for choosing to spend the day at our farm. And a special thank you to those who have been returning year after year- sharing in our many years of memory-making fall traditions.

McCall’s Pumpkin Patch has been a tradition for 25 years. Many Activities to choose from at the Pumpkin Patch. Whether it’s challenging yourself in the corn maze or digging through a pile of corn, racing around our pedal kart track or shopping in the Country Store, all ages can find something fun to do.

Friday: Noon to 6 pm

Saturday and Sunday: 10 am to 6 pm

For More Information or to purchase tickets visit: www.mccallpumpkinpatch.com

50 years of the Albuquerque International Balloon Fiesta® October 1-9, 2022

Each year at the begin ning of October, Albuquer que gears up for the most beautiful time of the year. The New Mexico skies will fill with colorful balloons of all shapes and sizes. Be sure to get up early, enjoy the crisp cool air with a good cup of coffee and check it out for yourself.

Tickets on sale now, please visit balloonfiesta.

com

Four Packs of General Ad mission Tickets and Single Session General Admission Tickets may also be pur chased in the Balloon Fiesta Gift Shop or by visiting our gift shop website.

Missy Leonard, Albuquerque Balloon Fiesta

Victor Banta, Albuquerque Balloon Fiesta David Dickinson, Albuquerque Balloon Fiesta

The Community Pantry’s 2nd Annual

Mummy 5K Run and Walk

29

Fox Run Golf Course

Start Time For The Race: 9:00 am

T-shirts for the first 60 people to sign-up and swag bags for the first 75 people to cross the finish line!

Registration: Online: https://runsignup.com/Race/NM/Gallup/ TheCommunityPantry2nd5KRunandWalk

In person: The Community Pantry 1130 E. Hasler Valley RD or day of event starting at 7:00 AM at Fox Run Golf Course ** Cash, Debit/Credit Cards accepted**

The Community Pantry 505-726-8068 1130 E. Hasler Valley Rd, Gallup, NM.

Community Pantry

Ourlocal pantry is gearing up for three of their largest fundraisers that will benefit directly the community members of McKinley County. The pantry serves over 100,000 people each year and over 40,000

meals are provided. The pantry is committed to serving those who need them the most. This can include Food boxes, partnering with ranchers, or our fresh produce program, we continue to combat hunger in the community.

Coming up over the next few months the pantry will first have the Fall Harvest Soup and Salad Dinner. A variety of soups and salads will be available for an all you can eat dinner. The event will take place on October 6, at 6:00 pm to 8:00 pm. Come join us at the Gallup Community Center (410 Bataan Veterans Street). The cost is $15 per person and $10 for kids 12 and under.

Then on October 29th the pantry will host their 2nd Annual Mummy 5K Run & Walk. This will be a fun event for the entire family. The run & walk will take place at the Fox Run Golf Course (1109 Susan Avenue) at 9:00 am. T-Shirts for the first 60 people to signup. The fee is $25

Sign-up

2ND ANNUAL MUMMY

5K RUN & WALK

Online: https://runsignup.com/Race/NM/Gallup/TheCommunityPantry2nd5KRunandWalk

In person: The Community Pantry, 1130 E. Hasler Valley Rd or day of event starting at 7:00 AM at Fox Run Golf Course

FESTIVAL OF TREES

During the month of November and December the pantry gears up for the Festival of Trees, held at Rio West Mall. Trees, wreaths, gifts are all donated and placed with decorations at the Rio West Mall for the community to purchase tickets for. The trees are decorated beautifully during the month of November and then in December you can purchase tickets with a chance to win your favorite Christmas Tree.

The Community Pantry uses the proceeds to support the existing programs that assist those who are in need. Here are some ways you can help this year. You or your business can donate a Christmas Tree, Wreath or gifts. You can purchase tickets for a chance to win. Spread the word about this event!!

For more Information Contact

The Community Food Pantry • 505-726-8068

Walking in Beauty

Healthy Fats!

Want to get more Omega-3 fats into your diet? Then maybe try more salmon. Here is a delicious recipe to try for those of you that may not really like fish.

Ingredients you will need: 4 3-pound salmon fillet Olive Oil Salt and Pepper Minced Garlic Lemons

Italian Herb Seasoning

Preheat the oven to 400 degrees and prepare a baking sheet. Place the salmon fillets on the baking sheet and season generously with salt and pepper.

Mix together the olive oil, garlic, herbs, and juice of 1/2 of the lemon. Place this sauce over salmon fillets, being sure to rub all over the tops and sides of the salmon so it has no dry spots.

Bake the salmon in the oven for 15-18 minutes or until the salmon becomes flaky when pulled apart with a fork.

Serve on top of rice or alone.

ZUNI AND ITS BEAUTY

By Kenneth Maxymowich

Zuni, New Mexico is a magical historical place where incredible art is created daily and for past generations. We see traders, buyers and collectors come and go but Zuni created art is here for a lifetime and

artist that is mostly self-taught. Intently watching his motherin law making jewelry, Don’s interest was peaked and he started by making cluster pieces like she was creating. It was his

old when he started making jewelry and Don says it was a great way to relax while he was in such a stressful job. At the time Don was working for BIA Zuni roads department, a position he began in 1970. He worked there for about 5 years until his jewelry took off and he could make more money at creating jewelry than working a job with headaches! He was so happy working being his own boss. Once he was on his own with his wife Velma, they were already making unique pieces derived from ideas that they thought of and from pictures of jewelry they came across. They would always add their own unique design to their work and call it their own.

Don Dewa was born a Sun

Clan member. He lived with his family in Gallup until he was about 10. After leaving Gallup, Don moved back to his homeland of Zuni where he stayed with Tony and Rita Edaakie and their young family. He tells me how grateful he is to them even today for sharing their home with his family. Then later, Don’s Mom and two sisters moved back to Gallup, and he then stayed with Charlotte Dishta whom he calls his sister. It is here at Charlotte’s in Zuni where Don continued his education and eventually graduated. Although life growing up in Zuni was not always easy, he always believed in becoming educated and made a point of graduating from high school. From 1967 to 1970 Don Dewa proudly served this amazing country in the US Army. Don heroically received two Purple Hearts for wounds received in combat while in Vietnam. Returning home injured, Don then married his sweetheart Velma Eriacho in a beautiful service December 24, 1970. Being Christmas Eve, he remembers both of them dressing up as Joseph and Mary for their wedding! Velma and Don would eventually have one Son and one Daughter and now so proudly boast about their three Granddaughters. Don and Velma were married 32 years before her untimely passing.

so are the traditional patterns, designs, techniques and families. Strong family ties have patterns and techniques handed down generation after generation. With modern technology and influences we continue to have artists create new and exciting designs in jewelry, paintings, beadwork, fetishes, pottery and digital art.

Award winning Don Dewa is an incredibly talented Zuni

motherin Law, Loretta Eriacho that mentioned to Don that he could make a good living by creating jewelry. He was 24 years

Being a Sun Clan member, Don started using that design in his and Velma’s work about 5 years into making jewelry. Still today, all of his jewelry still boasts this beautiful Sun Face design. Then about 4 years later, Don was so impressed by a spinner piece of jewelry in a magazine, he decided to come up with his own spinner design. He was so impressed with what he created that this same design

is used in his unique spinner pieces today. Matter of fact, a belt buckle with 5 spinners just won a first-place ribbon at this year’s Gallup Ceremonial competition at Red Rock. It was an honor for me to be with Don not only for the jewelry gala night, but we also shared

an evening together at the Night Dance Celebrations! All of his inlay jewelry is signed Don Dewa with a sun face and stamped sterling. In the last few years, Don has broadened his creative

horizons adding cartoon characters into his repertoire of work. To say the least, these characters are so realistically created, and he is extremely busy satisfying collectors and fans of his work from all places of this planet!

Don’s brother Andrew who was 2 years older was also incredibly talented and is a very well-known jewelry artist and we will talk more about him soon. Sadly, he was taken away from us way too early in this creative legend’s life. Don’s sister Ola Eriacho and also her late husband Tony Eriacho are well known inlay artists. Viola and Donald Eriacho were also popular and very talented inlay artists and Viola still creates gorgeous inlay pieces next door to her brother-in-law Don! Don’s Mother is 97 years young and still creating beadwork. What an incredibly talented family providing the world with such beautifully created inlay pieces.

To get away from his worktable, Don Dewa enjoys getting away for a nice meal and going out to the casino. In the early 70s, Don used to love getting out to the homesteaders

Eriacho Ranch with his brother-in-law. The farm had sheep and cattle and it’s so nice to hear all about all the memories created at the ranch. They both bought a big dozer at Navajo tractor and used it to make roads and trails until it wouldn’t run any longer. It was a place to get away from Zuni, take care of the animals and go hunting. Don also remembers a time at the spot where Turquoise Village is now that buyers would line up in their vehicles vying to purchase Zuni Jewelry in that open lot. He explains to me how funny it was for the buyers to fight and push each other to get the attention of the artists as they would pull up! He says in Zuni they would call it the camel lot!!! Well, it’s not very much different even now close to that very same spot!!

It’s really no wonder that Don and Velma were so successful and now that he continues to be so busy creating his masterpieces! He remembers Velma always telling him to take his time and concentrate

jewelry that will be enjoyed and loved for generations to come.

HON DOBINDE A:HOI’ Elahkwa, Kenny

By Vicki Handfield

We are all aware of several important issues facing us as a society. One major issue is the lack of affordable, close by, available, high-quality childcare. Parents work different hours, shifts, etc and need consistent, competent, trustworthy care for their children, of all ages.

EDUCATIONAL CHILD CARE TELL ME YOUR THOUGHTS!

We are a multi-cultural society, and we can respect and learn from each other; we are alike in many ways and there are some significant differences too. Respect for the similarities and differences is vital. Let’s plan to respectfully give each other more info about how we operate, what we expect and more.

Another issue is unplanned pregnancies. It would be ideal if more young people were more aware of just how difficult it is to raise children. For years I have semiseriously joked that if more people really knew just how hard it is, we would have become extinct a LONG time ago!

It would be so great if more young people took their time and planned more for having families. Young families would be more stable, and finances would be more dependable. It’s SO hard for young families who don’t have the income to support themselves adequately. Extended families are often a big help, no doubt about that at all! However, when the young families themselves have the capacity to handle all that they have to handle, extended families definitely can still help – but the stress is less.

When stress is less, people take better care of themselves and their young ones, physically and emotionally. Generally, health improves. Some physical and emotional problems are prevented or lessened with good care and attention – and less stress!

It might not be so hard to teach kids the basics about childcare and early child development; they may already be learning a lot caring for younger siblings and/or babysitting. It would be a big help to fill in the gaps in what they are learning these ways.

Well, I have the beginning of an idea to address these issues; the details will be in the next Journey edition. I just wanted to put some thoughts out there and ask for your input. This is a huge project and will need a lot of valuable thought and discussion. Brainstorming will be the first stage.

Hear me out, this isn’t an easy fix. It will take a lot of planning, cooperation and conversation. The practical plan could take different forms, and it won’t happen overnight. I would really like to hear thoughts, opinions and reactions from childcare workers, educators, parents and others who want to weigh in.

I’ll write more about this concept in the coming months, thank you for your attention and thoughts!

Contact me: vhandfield@gmail.com or 609 841 9159.

Battered Famil ies Services, I nc. presents

Dom estic Violence Awareness Month Event s

Date Time Event

October 1st, 15th, 22nd 8 am 1 pm Booth setup @ Gallup Flea Market

October 5th 5:30 pm 7:30 pm Zumba @ Larry B. Mitchell Recreation Center

October 8th 12 pm 3 pm Clothesline Project @ Rio West Mall

October 8th 7 pm 9 pm Booth setup @ Gallup Arts Crawl

October 12th 6 pm 8 pm Domestic Violence Education Presentations @ El Morro Event Center

October 19th 6 pm 8 pm Film Screening @ El Morro Theater Film: Sisters Rising

October 29th 7 pm 8 pm Annual Domestic Violence Awareness Walk & Candlelight Vigil @ McKinley County Courthouse Plaza

For more information about an event, to donate, volunteer, or set up a booth, please contact : Battered Families Services Inc . 207 S. Strong Drive, Gallup, New Mexico (505) 722 6389 extension 3 or 8

September 6 - December 1

Douglas MacPherson

Smith Mingus

You’re Invited!

Gallup Trails Annual Party in the Forest!

Saturday October 15

@McGa ey Wildlife Center

Located Just Past McGa ey Lake

Do you love trails?

We Do!

Let’s celebrate them together!

Gallup Trails is a local non-pro t organization that believes accessible trails improves the quality of life for all citizens of Gallup, McKinley County and beyond.

All events and activities are free!

SILVER STALLION

Jr. STAMPEDE

FREE! Kids/Junior Races

• Saturday, Oct. 15, at 2:00 pm there will be a kids/ juniors “Short Track XCC TT” mountain bike Time Trial near the McGa ey campground followed then by a junior XCO “Cross Country” race on Sunday, Oct. 16 at 9:00. with 6/12/18 mile options with 6th12th grade categories.

• Register at bicycleco ee.org or email info@bicycleco ee.org for more info.

• Early Morning! Zuni 50/100 endurance race. See http://nm-es.weebly.com/zunimountains-100.html for more info.

• 3:00 p.m: MTB group ride. Routes and groups to be determined based on who shows up.

• 5:00 p.m: Gallup Trails Bike Olympics--Bunny hop contest, distance jump, and track stand competition for overall “skills champ” award.

• 5:30 p.m: e world famous Taco supper! Donations for supper are greatly appreciated!

• 6:15 p.m: Cornhole tournament. Find a teammate and show up by 5:30 to get a tourney spot!

Circle of Rock Life

By Michele Laughing Reeves

When we hear the phrase circle of life, we of often imagine the opening scene of The Lion King and Rafiki holding Simba above the peak of Pride Rock. The rock formation of Pride Rock is symbolic of the monarch and of how “solid and sturdy” it is. The circle of life phrases is as old as human history, and that is a very, very long time; especially since today’s teenagers consider the 80s as “so last century.” The human version of the circle of life is puny in comparison to a rock’s version. The slab of Earth that we are now standing on isn’t the original layer from 4.5 billion years ago. Rocks, too, have a life cycle, and from it can yield extraordinary things.

A peek at my father’s rock collection

Wherever we travel, one of the first things we notice is the landscape, especially rock formations. We have within a short drive Pyramid Rock, El Morro, Monument Valley, and of course, the Grand Canyon. These formations are millions, billions of years in the making, so yes, they are impressive. We are also guilty of pocketing a pebble or two from these places and bring it home to place on the shelf. The appreciation of nature should not be so simple, the rock has a whole lifetime of history. Most rocks in northwestern New Mexico are sedimentary rocks, but many other types can be found among the sandstones and mudstones. Even a short walk out the front door can yield cool-looking rocks. Many visitors and locals take a short drive to hike Pyramid Rock, the Hogbacks, and the Chuska Mountains. These geological formations are impressive backdrops, but they are also impressively remade during the rock cycle.

Rocks around here could be all shades of sandstones or shale, but other types, like volcanic, can be found among them. If you’ve very attentive, you may even find a glistening crystal, a petrified rock, or a strange alien-looking rock. We know that Shiprock is a volcanic rock formed when the cone eroded away,

leaving the neck of the cooled, hardened magma jutting out of the desert. Mt. Taylor, to the East, is a dormant volcano with a lava field of twisting and curving cooled molten rock. So, finding a piece of basalt usually means it was formed around the Jurassic Era.

Similarly, petrified rocks take millions of years to form, and they are easier to spot because of its crystalline appearance. A whole forest of petrified wood means that a sudden disaster, like a volcanic eruption or a mudslide, buried a large, forested area nearly halting the decomposition process of the trees. Over millions of years, the carbon tissues of the trees are replaced by silica and minerals. Petrified rocks can be found throughout the area, which means this place was once under mud or ash.

The rarest type of rock is a meteorite. It is rare because most outer space asteroids or meteors usually burn up as it is entering Earth’s upper atmosphere. Finding a meteorite is a modern-day treasure hunt, museums and galleries will pay more than $2000 per pound. It is also helpful to know that meteorites have many different appearances and shapes and can be just as difficult to categorize. Because meteorites originate from space, they become part of the rock cycle here on Earth--the circle of life that takes only

several million years to complete.

Meanwhile, there is time for you to stumble across one.

The reason why I find rocks so fascinating is because my father has an extensive rock collection. When he retired, he spent most days herding sheep. While the sheep were grazing, he was searching nearby for interesting looking rocks. He picked rocks that were shiny, spiky, odd-colored, holey, petrified, striped, clustered, and had neat designs. His collection takes up a lot of space around the garage, but I always love looking and finding something new or different every time. I even suspect that a few are meteorites, but probably not. Who would’ve thought that it would take a shepherd and his collection to get me to appreciate my surroundings. Rocks tend to be underrated. People don’t take notice until one is polished and set in a pendant or ring or better yet, it makes a picturesque red sandstone formation in Monument Valley. The life of a rock is millions of years long, we have time to take more hikes and to appreciate nature’s beauty—large and pocket-sized.

Artiste Extraordinaire - Ruth Kamps

By Lois Harvey

Gallup has always been recognized as a town of talented artists and gifted crafters. One artist that has become a favorite of mine and of many who know her, is Ruth

If you were to be invited into Ruth Kamps’s home you may think you are entering a museum. The adobe built house reflects Ruth and her husband’s appreciation of the southwest, which is built from local adobe, has a door created from tamarisk wood and a ceiling designed with local cedar planks. The living room and dining room are filled with a fascinating array of Southwestern artifacts including Zuni, Acoma and Navajo pottery, native

beadwork, rock etchings and more. But the arresting works are the oil paintings and stained glass works of which Ruth is truly a master.

Ruth Poppen Kamps was born in 1930, in Muskegon, Michigan, where she attended elementary and high school. After graduating from high school, Ruth migrated east to Grand Rapids to attend Calvin (College) University for a year. College was of no great interest to Ruth but while at Calvin she met her life’s partner, Roland Kamps, who hailed from Rehoboth, New Mexico. The two fell in love and made plans. Ruth’s mother wasn’t too happy about this relationship and firmly declared that no daughter of hers was moving to that desolate country without visiting it first.

Ruth traveled to New Mexico with Roland on the infamous Route 66. Ruth says, “I fell in love with the country at first sight!”

Roland and Ruth married in August of 1950, and began raising their family. Rol began his career as a teacher at Rehoboth Mission. Eventually the family of six followed Roland to various teaching jobs including Zuni, NM, and California, finally settling down at Rehoboth Christian school as high school girls' dorm parents.

Roland’s dream was to build a home of their own in Gallup. When Rehoboth closed their dorms, a plot of land was purchased by Roland, and the two began building their home. Ruth fondly recalls building their new home on Vanden Bosch and was dismayed when her husband set his eye on a corner lot a block away. “I still see myself laying the final section of flooring of our CAP home,” Ruth says, “I was happy there.” However, Rol had other plans, purchased the corner lot and began the building of his dream home, made entirely of adobe bricks with coved Vega ceilings.

Early on in her first years at Rehoboth, Ruth delved into oil painting where she indeed had a gift. I asked Ruth what motivated her to start painting. She wasn’t sure but she knew that as a child she already loved art. Ruth’s favorite subjects became southwestern scenes, buildings, and people, particularly of people in the surrounding reservations. Ruth took photos of indigenous life and with her attention to detail and color transformed the photos into true-life artwork.

Throughout her career Ruth taught painting to interested folks while also working with local artists. When asked whether she sold much of her work her reply was that she wasn’t that interested in selling her paintings. If anyone would ask, she would gladly sell and much of the proceeds would go to her favorite charities. She recalls the thrill she felt donating to worthwhile causes. Ruth does find it affirming when people ask to buy her paintings. However, many of her favorite pieces will be passed on to and shared with her children, grandchildren and generations to follow.

While Ruth’s defining work lies in her paintings, she also has become a master at stained glass art. After moving into their new home, Ruth set up her art studio, later dedicating it to her intricate and beautiful stained glass work, including

Tiffany lamps, Nativity sets, many with a southwestern theme, and tree ornaments. Ruth spent several months repairing and reworking the many stained glass windows in the First Christian Reformed church in Tohatchi, NM. But perhaps her crowning achievement is the beautiful, 7-foot stained glass cross in the newly built Zuni Christian Reformed church.

Ruth has now retired from designing glass works and larger oil paintings. Her studio has been transformed into a living space for her daughter, Linda, who has become her constant companion and caretaker. She still has an interest in small paintings but now finds herself just “not getting it right.”

Ruth never aspired to be an artist to make a living or a name for herself. When asked about her work, she answers: “I just enjoy it and enjoy sharing it with others.”

OCTOBER 2022

SAVE THE DATE!

November 5

The America Recycles Day Recycling Arts & Crafts Fair / Recycling Jamboree

After two years of COVID restrictions The McKinley Citizens’ Recycling Council will hold this celebration of America Recycles Day from 9 am - 3 pm at the Gallup Community Service Center, 410 Bataan Veterans Street - Gallup.

MCRC is seeking vendors of items made from recycled / reused materials. For more information send a message to betsywindisch@yahoo. com or call Millie (505) 722-5142 or Linda (505) 905-5966.

YES I DO!

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

NAME: ADDRESS: CITY: STATE: ZIP:

PLEASE WRITE CLEARLY Allow A Few Weeks For Delivery Mail to: PO BOX 2025 Gallup, NM 87305

Al-Anon The Monday Noon Serenity Group holds open AlAnon meetings every Monday (except on U.S. holidays) from 12 noon to 1 PM in the Sanctuary of Bethany Church located at 1110 South Strong in Gallup. AlAnon is a 12 Step fellowship of family and friends of alcoholics.

October 1

The Gallup Relay for Life Board will hold a Fundraiser Food Sale at Gallup Lumber & Supply, 1724 S. 2nd Street.

8:00 am to 2:00 pm

Hot Dogs, Chile Dogs, Frito Pie, Pickles, and a variety of Baked Goods will be sold.

Please join us in continuing our fight against cancer and enjoy some tasty food!

For more information contact Pam at 505-870-6205.

October 1

Across Nations 85th Anniversary Event

Oct 1st, 2022 - 2 Hilltop Rd, Gallup, NM 87301

Target Shooting fundraiser 8am-12pm. Live music and broadcasting 1pm-4pm For more info, call Across Nations Radio 505-371-5587

October 7

Season Finale of Friday Night Rides – Cars & Coffee

Live Music 7:00 pm to 9:00 pm

October 8

Show Opening: Immersed in Enchantment by Dana Aldis ART123 Gallery

7:00 pm – 9:00 pm (during ArtsCrawl)

A love letter to northwest New Mexico’s abundance of natural beauty spelled out in a series of 100 small works and large-scale animal and tree portraits.

THE FALL FESTIVAL

The Ancient Way Café, OPO Gallery, the Feed and Seed Store, El Morro Area Arts Council, and area Food Circles present THE FALL FESTIVAL - ART! CRAFTS! LIVE MUSIC! FOOD! DISPLAYS! Join us in a joyful celebration of Rain, Harvest and the Arts. 11:30-4:30 pm in “El Morroville” Highway 53 one mile east of El Morro National Monument.

October 19

Artist Talk: Dana Aldis

6:00 pm

In-person at ART123 Gallery Live-streaming on the @ gallupARTS Facebook page

October 26

Wine & Painting

6:00 pm – 9:00 pm

ART123 Gallery

Have a creative night out! Purchase tickets at www. gallupARTS.org/wine-andpainting

October 29

Open Mic Night

7:00 pm to 9:00 pm

ART123 Gallery

October Events at the Octavia Fellin Public Library

Gallup’s Inter-tribal Indian Ceremonial: A Photo Retrospective

The Rex Museum is open to the public Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday 10:00 AM to 2:00 PM and Saturday 12:00 PM to 4:00 PM. The City of Gallup invites you to celebrate the centennial of Inter-Tribal Indian Ceremonial through images and objects, an exhibition curated by the Octavia Fellin Public Library at the Rex Museum located on the corner of Historic Highway 66 and 3rd Street. Email tmoe@gallupnm. gov or call (505) 863-1291 for more information.

We READ, We TALK Hybrid Book Club

Join us in person at the Main Library or on Zoom for discussions of A Place of Thin Veil by Bob Rosebrough. “The veil between the material and spiritual worlds is thinner and more permeable in Gallup, New Mexico. It is a place that is dis-proportionally and

El Morro Area Arts Council presents CHIP THOMAS aka “jetsonorama”, a photographer, public artist, activist and physician who has been working on the Navajo Nation since 1987. There, he coordinates the Painted Desert Project – a community building project which manifests as a constellation of murals across the Navajo Nation painted by artists from all over the rez + the world. Thomas was a 2018 recipient of a Kindle Project gift and in 2020 was one of a handful of artists chosen by the UN to recognize the 75th anniversary of the UN’s founding. He will be speaking at The Old School Gallery (one mile east of El Morro National Monument on NM H’way 53) October 22 from 2-4 pm with a reception for him there at 4 pm.

simultaneously wonderful and terrible. A reservation bordertown with a remarkably diverse citizenry, Gallup started out as a railroading and coal mining community with an alcoholsoaked, violent history. It is a place of constant struggle where the forces of good and evil are joined in combat and where each resident faces their own inner struggles. This book isn’t just for Gallupians or New Mexicans; it is both a memoir and history about real people facing Goliath struggles.” Discussions are Tuesday, October 18th at 6:00 PM and Saturday, October 29th at 2:00 PM. The author will be in attendance on Saturday ONLY. Refreshments will be served! Email bmartin@ gallupnm.gov or call 505-8631291 for more information.

Family Storytime with Local Author Sheila Lofgreen

Join OFPL in-person at the Children & Youth Library on October 8th at 2:00 PM for an exciting family storytime with a special guest! Local counselor, author, and illustrator Sheila Lofgreen will read stories that explore music and the role it plays in our lives. Stories, songs, rhymes, and finger plays will focus on music and instruments and include a chance to make music together. Email pneilson@ gallupnm.gov or call (505) 8631291 for more information.

Sugar Skull Decorating Party

Celebrate Dia de los Muertos with OFPL in-person at the Main Library or the Children & Youth Library on November 1st and 2nd from 2:00 PM to 4:00 PM for a Sugar Skull decorating party! While supplies last. Email bmartin@gallupnm.gov or call (505) 863-1291 for more information.

New Mexico P.E.O. Scholarships for Women

P.E.O. is a philanthropic organization where women celebrate the advancement of women; educate women through scholarships, grants, awards, loans and stewardship of Cottey College ; and motivate women to achieve their highest aspirations.

All New Mexico scholarships require:

• Applicants be female

• Applicants be sponsored by a PEO Chapter

• Scholarships are merit based

• Applicants must have full time status at an accredited institution

There are five New Mexico Scholarships:

Delilah Williams Scholarship I: This is for high school seniors to apply for their freshman year at Cottey College or a New Mexico institution. It is for a minimum amount of $2600.00 and is renewable.

Delilah Williams Scholarship II: This is a scholarship for a student’s 2 nd year at Cottey College or a New Mexico institution. It is for a minimum amount of $2600.00 and is not renewable.

Francine Neff Scholarship I, II, III, IV: This is for high school seniors to apply for their freshman year at Cottey College in Missouri. It is for a minimum amount of $2600.00 and is renewable for all four years.

Jean Boswell Foundation Scholarship: This is for juniors and seniors at a four year college. It is for a minimum amount of $2600.00 and is not renewable.

New Mexico State P.E.O. Scholarship: This is for juniors and seniors at a four year college. It is for a minimum amount of $2600.00 and is not renewable.

Irene Gurley: This is for UNM Gallup students. Two (2) $400 Scholarships to be used for UNM authorized expenses (e.g., books, tuition, supplies).

Contact PEO Chapter T: Jennifer Lee (505)979 2529 or JoAnn Zecca (505)863 6397

Applicants must be sponsored by a New Mexico PEO Chapter

Application Deadline: January 22, 2023

By Richard Rohr

A Noble Task

Known for her deep wisdom around death and dying, Kathleen Dowling Singh (1946–2017) also wrote about the awakening that can occur when we consciously address aging:

Opening deeply to the truth of our own aging is wise. Opening deeply to the truth of our own impermanence is wise. Although such opening may not come easily at rst—we all know how the ego tends to resist vulnerability—it is important to do so if we wish to mindfully use the time remaining to us. . . .

To live a life of an elder is to ripen into being that is more than simply elderly, more than just old. It involves ripening into cleareyed acceptance of the way things actually exist. at ripening involves, for each of us, many di cult reckonings in the multifaceted, multidimensional understanding that everything that can be lost will be lost. . . .

Grey hair and sagginess notwithstanding, many of us still cling childishly to so much that is unreal and inessential. Many of us still cling to reputation, to imagined security, to unexamined habits of attitude and behavior, and to self-image. We have deep aversion to having all of our cherished illusions stripped away by life-in-form’s seeming indi erence.

We all have reservoirs of fear, some large and some small and subtle, around entering this new terrain of unknown and mystery: our last years. What will aging to do me? To my body? To my mind? . . . Will I matter to anyone? Will I be a burden? How will I die?

We do not know. We have no clue what these years will hold for us. We have no clue what will happen tomorrow. e “moment that changed everything” usually arrives unannounced.

e only person who can answer the questions posed by the o en painful challenges of aging is the person we will be in the moment we confront those circumstances. e shaping of that person into someone with greater wisdom and equanimity can begin in this moment.

For Singh, when we choose to ripen, to awaken as we age, we o er a gi to the world and future generations:

If we are to claim the last years of life as years that hold the possibility of awakening into equanimity and lightness, into the very embodiment of grace, we need to bear witness to the ripening of that possibility. Not only would it be a blessing for each of us, it would be a blessing for a world starving for such witnessing. . . .

Mindful of impermanence, the breath-by-breath arising and abiding and falling of each moment, we can remain in remembrance of our longing to exist in wisdom and love and compassion. We can remain in our intention to ripen into the spiritual maturity that is our birthright to cultivate. ere is no more noble way to spend these years than to become an elder, to bear witness to the world as placeholders for peace, love, wisdom, and fearlessness.

Kathleen Dowling Singh, e Grace in Aging: Awaken as You Grow Older (Boston, MA: Wisdom Publications, 2014), 12, 16–17, 17–18, 21, 24.

About the Center for Action and Contemplation:

e Center for Action and Contemplation, in Albuquerque New Mexico, is an educational nonpro t that introduces spiritual seekers to the contemplative Christian path of transformation. We o er teachings by our core faculty that are rooted in Christian mystical traditions and point to our intrinsic oneness with God and each other. Founded by Franciscan Richard Rohr in 1987, our programs and resources are designed to help deepen prayer practice and strengthen compassionate engagement in the world.

Learn more about our organization at cac.org or on Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter

Abel Bates

QUESTIONS

Kendra Biava

The Therapy academy

What is The Therapy Academy?

The Therapy Academy was co-founded in 2021 by Kendra Biava and Nicole Olsin, both Speech Language Pathologists with a combined 40 years of experience working with children. In July 2022, the company became one of three New Mexico Family Infant Toddler Early Intervention (EI) Providers in McKinley County. This program provides free services and support to children birth to three (3) who have or are at risk for developmental delays and their families.

What inspired you to start up this program? What makes Gallup right for these types of services?

In 2019 Kendra’s youngest child was diagnosed with VACTERL Association. Her daughter qualified for EI services in all developmental domains but due to provider shortages in the area, Kendra had to travel weekly with her infant daughter to

obtain vital services. This profound lack of appropriate services fueled her commitment to better serve the families of the birth to threeyear old population in Gallup and McKinley

County. With the help of her co-founder, The Therapy Academy was born.

Historically, McKinley County has experienced a lack of healthcare and associated providers. Based on the most recent NM Needs Assessment Report for McKinley County, approximately 44.2% of children under age 6 are below the federal poverty level (2017). This statistic poses an increased environmental risk for developmental delays and disabilities in the populations we serve, due to the lack of basic necessities. Along with these risks, we are now experiencing the effects of COVID-19 on development, especially in our poverty-stricken area. Due to reduced interaction with others, increased screen time, financial instability of families, increased family stress, and mask usage, we are seeing the negative developmental effects on the children of our county.

Who is the population that your program serves and what type of services do you offer?

The Therapy Academy provides free services and support to children birth to three (3) who have or are at risk for developmental delays and their families. We offer free developmental Service Coordination and 16 Early Intervention Services that include Developmental Instruction, Occupational Therapy, Family Therapy, Physical Therapy, Nutrition, Speech Therapy, Social Work, and Nursing.

The best way to get in contact with you for more information or to be referred?

Visit our website: thetherapyacdemy.com to fill out a referral form for your child, grandchild, niece, nephew or friend! You can also call us for more information at 505-297-3394. Like our page: The Therapy Academy on both Facebook and Instagram!

A collection of photos during summer of 2022

By Merrisha Livingston

The Gallup Journey magazine has been part of our community for over 15 years!

W e have celebrated the opening of new businesses, introduced you to people who make Gallup the unique place it is and have done all of this with a positive voice.

We are your free community magazine. That means that you represent the voices of our community, the ideas, the people and the businesses.

All of us have a story to tell about our community. Stories that represent the best of Gallup. We want to hear those stories!

So, if you want to share that Gallup story with our readers, we invite you to put it into words.

If you are interested please contact by phone 722-3399 or send us an email, gallupjourney@gmail.com.

Stories are due by the 20th of each month and need to be around 800 words. Remember to include images.

Thank you for making the Gallup Journey our favorite community magazine.

by Nature. Enhanced by

The Ultimate Sacrifice

This was Sgt. Hurta (then Private Hurta) Marine Corps Boot Camp photo.

By Kenneth Reige USAF Veteran

“The Ultimate Sacrifice” is a term used when someone has given their life in the service of our country. This story is about USMC Sgt. Joseph D. Hurta, who made the ultimate sacrifice on 22 March 1967. I never had the honor of meeting Sgt. Hurta, but these past few weeks I have come to know of him and his family.

Joseph D. Hurta (or Joe Dee as his sister called him) was born on 30 Oct 1940 in Gallup, NM. He enlisted into the Marine Corps on 4 May 1962 and was assigned to the 3rd Marine Division, 1st Battalion/4th Marines B Company. His MOS (Military Occupational Specialty) was 0311 which is Marine Corps Rifleman.

Recently I received a call from Mrs. Jerry Lee Zecca (Joe Dee) sister. She was telling me a story about her brother and how she had his Marine Corps Uniform, medals, and other items that she wanted to show me. I was so honored that she wanted to share these items and stories of her brother with me. When Mrs. Zecca arrived, I soon found out that she actually wanted to donate these items to the hotel museum. WOW, I was speechless to say the least. These precious family items are now being presented to me to honor and to keep Sgt. Hurta’s memory alive. This is a responsibility that I did not take lightly. As I visited with Mrs. Zecca you could easily feel the love she has for her brother.

She also shared the story of that terrible day when the news of Joe Dee’s passing. This is a pain that only those who have experienced can fully understand. A few days later Mrs. Zecca came by the hotel and presented me with his military photo album of him and his fellow buddies in Vietnam.

As I have been going through the letters and photo’s I feel I have come to know Sgt. Hurta or Joe Dee and would like to share this story.

Joe Dee loved baseball and played for Gallup High and even tried out for the Pro’s. Joe Dee also coached little league with his friend Emelio Esparza.

After graduation from High School, he got a job as a teller at the First State Bank in Gallup. With the talk of war Joe Dee (like many other young Americans in our country) enlisted in the military with Joe Dee fulfilling his birthright of (as a dear friend shared with me that Marines are not made, they are born) being born a Marine.

By the time that Joe Dee was sent off to Vietnam he was on his 3rd enlistment. Knowing that he would be going to Vietnam, he did so willingly. It was on 22 March 1967 after landing on the beach in Quang Tri Province, Republic of Vietnam, while leading his squad on a routine patrol to assess the damages done to the enemy by an air strike his patrol was ambushed. Joe Dee immediately deployed his squad against the enemy force and while doing so was KIA (Killed in Action). A memorial Service was held in the field shortly after. Many of his friends attended.

I also came across a letter that was written to Joe Dee and his family from one of his fellow Marines that he served and fought with. His name

is Sgt. Gary L. Hazlett. I would also like to include this letter to let everyone know just how loved Joe Dee was by his fellow Marines.

To: Sgt. Joseph Hurta,

Hey old buddy, “Hi-Do-Zo”, It’s just me, I know you are OK because you are in Heaven. I know this because you have already spent your time in Hell.

I miss you, your laughter, and the friendship we shared. Your presence is still felt daily by everyone who loved and still loves you.

It only seems like yesterday that we were in the Philippines and heard that “Hi-Do-Zo” come out of the night in a crowd of Marines, and to my surprise it was you.

Thank you for all the

great times we shared over a cold beer or 2. Thank you for being my friend, and most of all; Thank You for being an Outstanding Marine. You are not forgotten; you are a Hero and it’s Marines like you that keep the proud tradition of the Corps alive and well.

Joe, we shared the same barracks in Okinawa, and I look forward to sharing the same Marine Barracks in Heaven when it’s time for me to be called home. We’ve got a lot of catching up to do.

“OORAH and Semper Fi Marine”

Sgt Joseph D. Hurta was laid to rest at Sunset Memorial Park here in Gallup. He is immortalized on the Vietnam Memorial Wall on Panel 17E Line 20.

Here is the display of some of the items donated by Joe Dee’s sister Mrs. Jerry Lee Zecca honoring this great American Hero and son of Gallup who gave his “Last Full Measure” for our freedom. Thank You Sgt. Hurta for your service and sacrifice to our great country. You will never be forgotten as your memory will be shared and kept alive by those who knew you and all of us who are now living under the blanket of freedom you helped provide.

As with all my stories I close with a quote from one of our nation’s recipients of the Medal of Honor Recipients. Of course, every MOH Recipient will tell you the real heroes are those who laid down their lives for our freedom. This quote comes from Vietnam MOH Recipient and retired Navy Seal Lt. Michael E. Thornton. His quote is as follows:

Thank you, Lt. Thornton, for you amazing words of wisdom and dedication to our great country and to the family of Sgt. Joseph D. (Joe Dee) Hurta, we are forever indebted to you for your family’s service and sacrifice and finally to Sgt. Joseph D. Hurta, I salute you sir and thank you for providing the freedom that my family and I enjoy every day.

“Throughout our history, many men and women have sacrificed the upmost for our great country and the freedoms we are privileged to enjoy. Always remember and honor our fallen comrades.”

Party or Trick

Cover Photo Contest

Send in your best photo for a chance to be on the cover in the November issue of the Gallup Journey. Be sure to take your photo vertically, our Cover runs from top to bottom. Send in your pictures by October 15 to gallupjourney@gmail.com

Gallup-McKinley County Schools Our Values

Our values lie at the core of our work. They inform our teaching, our philosophy of leadership, and our relationships with the students and the communities we serve.

The Whole Child – We address the whole child, understanding that there are many factors – both within and outside the school setting – affecting learning, achievement, life success and overall student well-being.

Cultural Diversity – We recognize that we serve and operate within a uniquely diverse community in which multiple cultures co-exist. It is our obligation and desire to embrace and include in the curriculum the diverse cultures, histories and languages of our community.

Excellence – We are committed to fostering a learning culture, centered on the pursuit of excellence in all aspects of the educational mission.

ELEVATE

2025

Prosperity – We are committed to fostering positive attitudes and behaviors aligned with personal success, self-sufficiency and service to one’s community.

Community Engagement – We value the engagement of community members and stakeholders as partners to raise up new generations of healthy, productive and successful citizens.

Equity, Equality and Access – We are committed to providing consistent excellent instruction, quality learning environments and supportive services for all students and their families.

STRATEGIC GOALS FOR EXCELLENCE

The Strategic Goals represent the four most critical priorities for positive change and improvement in the District over the next 3 years. Each goal statement gives general direction and focus to our work.

Our Vision

Excellence in educating our students to become self-reliant, productive citizens in a multicultural society.

Our Mission

Preparing our students for success. We empower and develop our students through improving academic knowledge, promoting essential skills and positive character traits, providing safe and healthy learning environments, and creating strong partnerships among parents, colleges and the business community.

GOALS AND KEY OBJECTIVES

Goal #1: Increase Student Success Strengthen academic performance & student engagement.

Goal #2: Create Career Pathways Connect student learning to their career goals.

Goal #3: Empower Our Team Develop & support employees to grow professionally within the District.

Goal #4: Strengthen Partnerships

Expand community partnerships to support & educate our students.

OBJECTIVE INTENDED RESULTS*MEASURE **GOAL

Improve Student Academic Achievement Improve core state proficiency scores

Improve Student Attendance Increase in the number of students participating in learning

Improve Graduation Rates

Improve Career Pathways

Increase the number of students graduating from high school in 4 years

Prepare students for post-graduation success, including educational opportunities and ability to enter the workforce after high school

Improve Parent Engagement Increase parental participation in students learning

*Proficiency growth

**Retain status in the top 3 of largest 10 school districts as determined by proficiency growth

*Student attendance rate

**Increase from 74.79% to 95%

*4 year graduation rate

**Increase from 77.2% to 83%

A: *# of HS students participating in a career pathway per year

**Increase from 94% to 100%

B: *# of students participating in an internship

**Increase from 25 per year to 200 per year

*2 Conferences with parents conducted by schools per year

**Increase from 68.2% to 100%

COMMITMENT TO GMCS COMMUNITY

Ensure students are staying on-track with grade-level academic performance.

Ensure students are receiving quality inperson instruction to facilitate Academic Achievement.

Ensure students are on-track to graduate on time, prepared, and ready for postgraduation success.

Ensure students are receiving real-life experiences to facilitate College, Career and Civic readiness after graduation.

Parents are our students first teachers. Ensure parent’s are informed about their student’s achievements, progress and needs.