E FRE
VOL 5 | ISSUE 221 | JUNE 28, 2019
SHOW THE RECEIPTS RMCHCS AND COUNTY AT ODDS OVER FORENSIC AUDIT. STORY PAGE 4
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Friday June 28, 2019 • Gallup Sun
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Gallup Sun • Friday June 28, 2019
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NEWS Hospital, county wrangle over audit terms ISSUES WITH DISCLOSURE OF INFORMATION, OFF-SITE REVIEW
By Cody Begaye Sun Correspondent
L
ast month, the Sun h i g h l i g ht e d D a v id Conejo, CEO of Rehoboth McK inley Christian Health Care Services, as Person of the Month for his work in bringing the hospital back from the brink of closure and creating new programs, facilities, and jobs as a result. But the hospital’s landlord – McKinley County – the funder of some public monies to the hospital, has elected to conduct a forensic audit into how that money is spent down to the penny. This has caused the relationship to grow tense between the county and RMCHCS, a not for profit corporation, over how the audit should be carried out. But why was the forensic audit called for in the first place? Bill Lee, chairman of the McKinley County Board of Commissioners, said he has been bombarded by the public over the last 18 months with issues about the pricing of services, quality of care, and fiscal management of RMCHCS. Based on these complaints, Lee said the commission voted to hire a firm to conduct a forensic audit last August. To explain, RMCHCS and entities that receive public funds are subject to annual audits, which become public record once the New Mexico Office of the State Auditor reviews and approves the audit reports. Once an audit is released, it receives a rating by the state auditor that sheds light on the findings, whether favorable or unfavorable, or somewhere in
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LIQUOR LICENSE TRANSFER City council discusses license of old Gallup Inn
David Conejo
Bill Lee
between. For its 2017 annual audit, RMCHCS received an “unmodified” opinion from the state auditor’s office, which essentially is a good rating, with only a few areas noted that the hospital can improve upon. The hospital’s 2018 audit is currently under review by the state auditor’s office. However, despite the good outcome in 2017, the commission called for a forensic audit and began requesting information on spending from the hospital. And while some information was provided, according to RMCHCS CEO David Canejo, the mixing of privately held funds and public dollars proved a challenge in deciding what it should disclose to the public in detail. So, the county settled on this: that RMCHCS provide specific details on how the hospital spends funds it receives from the mill levy, a property tax based on the assessed value of a property. The hospital receives about $1 million in mill levy money annually. Ca nejo s a id du r i n g a phone interview that the hospital already practices due diligence with the mill levy
monies by seeking approval from the bank which holds the funds before transferring to a RMCHCS account.
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RESISTANCE TO THE REQUEST? The path to alleviate some of the public’s concerns of RMCHCS spending, has been filled with road blocks, according to Commission Chairman Lee. The issues primarily center around where to conduct the audit and what to audit. “The resistance we have met [from the hospital] has been unbelievable,” Lee said June 20. Cou nt y Attor ney Doug Decker spoke with the Sun June 20, about where the complications began with the forensic audit. “We wanted to do a forensic audit [last August],” Decker said in a phone call. “They wanted it called something else, so we called it a special audit.” Decker said the first external auditor hired by the county didn’t work out for RMCHCS as they couldn’t agree on the terms of the audit. The county then hired
a not her cer t i f ied publ ic accounting firm, Hinkle + Landers, PC, from Albuquerque, to perform the audit. This firm has also met resistance in collecting information from RMCHCS, according to both Lee and Decker. The Sun spoke with Conejo June 18 about what the forensic audit entails on behalf of the hospital. Conejo said RMCHCS was unable to comply with the original request, because the public dollars are intermingled with the rest of the hospital’s private funds. But, Lee said that once an entity takes public money, even if those funds are intermingled with an entity’s other funds, that entity’s financials are still considered public record. “We should have the ability to track [public funds],” he said. When the process began last August, Conejo was told that the hospital owed $2.5 million in back rent to the county and the forensic audit is to ensure RMCHCS has enough funds in their reserves to cover the debt. C o nej o s a id R MC HC S demonstrated they had enough funds to cover the back rent, so then the county changed its request to review the hospital’s spending of mill levy monies.
CURRENT ISSUES WITH THE AUDIT PROCESS Conejo sa id McK i n ley County presented a request earlier this year that stated Hinkle + Landers, PC needed to take the hospital’s financial files to their office in Albuquerque to be reviewed for an undisclosed
period of time. In response to the firm’s request, Conejo said he doesn’t want the hospital’s files to leave the premises and wanted a time frame for when the audit would be conducted. “We said, ‘Talk with our auditors [about the financial files],’” he said. “‘But you can’t take it elsewhere, because we can’t control where it goes afterwards.’” Conejo ex pla i ned how external auditors come onsite to the McKinley County offices and perform the audit there, plus are given a time frame – in essence an approximate start and end date for the audit. He said RMCHCS wants to receive the same treatment. “County records don’t leave county buildings,” he said. “We want to be audited in the same way the rest of the county is.” In light of this request for an off-site review, Decker said it appeared that RMCHCS was not forthcoming with what was asked of them. “ T he aud it or s st a r t ed requesting information and RMCHCS would provide very little information that was asked for, or nothing,” Decker said. Decker’s statement about RMCHCS not providing the required financial information was also echoed by Lee. “We want to determine where publ ic money i s going,” Lee said. “The hospital receives $1 million in mill levy money every year, and we want to see that it’s being used effectively.” Lee said the forensic audit could alleviate some of the
AUDIT | SEE PAGE 23
WHAT’S INSIDE …
SAVING FIGHT DOGS The aftermath of dismantling a dog fighting network
Friday June 28, 2019 • Gallup Sun
15 17 24 HUMANITARIAN RELIEF Senators Heinrich and Udall discuss supplemental border funding
RELAY FOR LIFE Things go wild at this year’s event
DOUBLE MOVIE REVIEW Beat the heat with “Yesterday” and “Annabelle Comes Home” NEWS
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City council discusses transfer of Ortega liquor license
Railway Cafe
By Cody Begaye Sun Correspondent T he Ga l lup Cit y Council held a public
hearing June 26 for the proposed transfer of ownership of an existing liquor license from the estate of Armand Ortega to K.A. Rose, LLC . The Alcohol and Gaming Division of the New Mexico Regulation and Licensing Department granted preliminary approval for the license transfer, stating the applicant is seeking transfer of the dispenser liquor license with on-premises consumption only.
The liquor license was held by the estate of Armand Ortega and was not being used as of June 25. The purchaser was identified as K.A. Rose, LLC, doing business as Mesa Lights, from Gallup. The proposed location for the license is 2915 W. Hwy. 66, known as the Gallup Inn and a former Howard Johnson and Holiday Inn. City Attorney Curtis Hayes spoke for the item, stating that the council can vote to deny the transfer if the applicant violates city laws and ordinances with the
location of the liquor license. But, he said, in this case the location was legal. Amelia Ortega Crowther, personal representative for the estate of Armand Ortega, was present to speak for the reason behind the transfer. “The family sold the Gallup Inn to [K.A. Rose, LLC] and wanted the license to go along with the hotel,” she said during the meeting. James Mason, of Mason and Isaacson, P.A., represented K.A. Rose, LLC at the meeting. He stated the the license transfer was sought as part of the hotel operation. He added that K.A. Rose,
THANK YOU ADVERTISERS
The Gallup City Council discussed the location of the former Gallup Inn and Howard Johnson at 2915 W. Hwy. 66 in regards to the transfer of a liquor license from the estate of Armand Ortega to K.A. Rose, LLC during their June 25 regular meeting. Photo Credit: Shepherd Waldenberger.
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Friday June 28, 2019 • Gallup Sun
Amazing Grace Insurance - 25 Bubany Insurance Agency - 8 Bubany Supply - 21 Butler’s Office City - 27 Comfort Suites - 23 Crime Stoppers - 12 Custom Computer Services - 19 CWA Strategic Communications - 10 Castle Furniture - 5 Dine Lock and Safe - 13 505 Burgers & Wings - 25 Gallup Housing Authority – 7, 29 Gallup McKinley County Schools - 2 Gurley Motor Co. – 1 Highlands University - 30 Keller Williams Realty - 1 KFC - Insert Mario Estrada Tournament - 14 NMCC - 11 Octavia Fellin Public Library - 18 Otero’s Alarm Company - 12 Pinnacle Bank - 27 Pizza Hut - Insert Quintana’s Music & Entertainment - 3 Quintana’s Music & Indian Jewelry - 22 Railway Cafe - 6 Red Roof Inn - 22 Rollie Mortuary - 11 Rico Motor Co. - 8 Small Fry Dentistry - 24 Thunderbird Supply Co. - 6 TravelCenters of America - 19 Wild Thing Bull Riding - 32
LLC could find ways to enhance the use of the license on the premises, such as providing more meeting rooms for various functions. “It’s always good to have choices for [hosting these
LIQUOR LICENSE | SEE PAGE 14
Gallup Sun Publishing, LLC Publisher/Editor Babette Herrmann Accounts Representative Raenona Harvey Sherry Kauzlarich Associate Editor Beth Blakeman Photography Ana Hudgeons Knifewing Segura Correspondent/Editorial Asst. Cody Begaye Design David Tsigelman On the Cover McKinley County hired an outside firm to conduct a forensic audit of Rehoboth McKinley Christian Health Care. When RMCHCS learned the firm wanted to take their record books and financial documents to review off site, they said no. Cover art by D. Tsigelman The Gallup Sun, published Fridays, is not responsible or liable for any claims or offerings, nor responsible for availability of products advertised. All rights reserved. Reproduction in whole or in part without permission is prohibited. The Gallup Sun distributes newspapers in McKinley, Cibola and Apache counties. Office: 102 S. Second St., Gallup, NM 87301 POSTMASTER: Send address changes to Gallup Sun, PO Box 1212, Gallup, NM. Mailing Address: PO Box 1212 Gallup, NM 87305 www.gallupsun.com Phone: (505) 722-8994 Fax: (505) 212-0391 gallupsun@gmail.com Letter to the editor/guest column ACCEPTED BY EMAIL ONLY. State full name and city/town. No pen names. ID required. All submissions subjected to editor’s approval. Guest columnists, email Sun for submission requirements.
NEWS
GALLUP HOUSING AUTHORITY
Richard Kontz, Executive Director
DEAR FUTURE TENANTS As most of you know there are many people in this area who need housing. Gallup Housing Authority is one of several housing providers who offers “assisted housing” for “income qualified” families.
WHO IS ELIGIBLE?
We determine your eligibility based on income limits developed by HUD. HUD defines low income as families who have gross income of 30% of county median income up to 80% on county median income. Gallup Housing Authority can provide you with information on income limits for the Gallup-McKinley County area.
HOW IS RENT DETERMINED?
Your rent is based on your family's anticipated gross annual income less authorized deductions/allowances. HUD allows the following deductions/allowances: $480 for each dependent; $400 for elderly or a person with a disability; and some medical deductions for families headed by an elderly person or a person with disabilities. Some deductions/allowances will have to be verified before they are allowed. Annual income is the anticipated total income from all sources received from the family head of household, spouse, and each additional member of the family 18 years of age or older. Once Adjusted income is determined then your rent is set at: 30 percent of the monthly adjusted income; 10 percent of monthly income; or minimum rent of $50.00; whichever is the highest.
WAITING LISTS?
Since the demand for housing exceeds the available housing units, applicants are placed on waiting lists by bedroom size. To get on the waiting list you must submit an application. Currently, applicant intake is conducted from 8 am to 11 am on Wednesdays and Fridays every week. Applicants are selected as they move up to the top of their respective waiting list. Applicants must be ready to lease when their opportunity to get a housing unit comes up – This means you must have “funds in hand” to pay 1st month’s rent and a security deposit.
CLOSING REMARKS:
Just being “poor” or low income does not automatically get the family into a rental unit. It is a process – you have to complete the paperwork – pass required background checks - show up for appointments – be ready to pay when you lease-up - You have do your part otherwise we can’t help you.
NEWS
Located at 203 Debra Drive in Gallup, NM – (505)722-4388 Applications may be request by email: GHA.Main@galluphousing.com
Gallup Sun • Friday June 28, 2019
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Fighting for the dogs WHAT HAPPENS TO THE DOGS RESCUED FROM DOG FIGHTING RINGS?
Staff Reports
T
his is t h e story o f some of the 85 dogs the FBI rescued from a dog fighting network that spanned five states and the District of Columbia, after Robert Arellano, 65, of Albuquerque wa s sentenced in federa l court April 4, for 30 years of participation.
U.S. At tor ney Joh n C. Anderson for the District of New Mexico said, “Today’s [April 4] sentencing brings to an end Mr. Arellano’s 30 years in this unconscionable business, and hopefully will deter others who seek to profit from forcing animals [to] fight to the death. In New Mexico, we will continue to seek out and punish those who exploit and abuse animals. Dog fighting for entertainment and profit is the organized and heinous business of breeding and conditioning dogs to fight each other until one dog kills the other,” Arellano was convicted in a Trenton, N. J. court as part
of a case that was consolidated with a related federal case in New Mexico. He received four years in prison and three years’ supervised release. Three other defendants were convicted as part of the same trial. Arellano and his associates regularly had dogs fight to the death, and repeatedly trafficked in dogs with other dog fighters across several states. They maintained significant numbers of fighting dogs and equipment such as dog treadmills, intravenous drug bags and lines, “breeding stands” used to immobilize female dogs, and chains that weighted up to several pounds per linear
A foster family took in six puppies from a rescued pit bull terrier. They were all successfully adopted. Photo Credit: FBI
A pit bull terrier recovered during the 2016 Illinois operation had six puppies shortly after her rescue. She had to be euthanized, but the puppies were put up for adoption in a timely manner thanks to civil forfeiture laws aimed at animal welfare. Photo Credit: FBI foot. One defendant convicted at the trial, attempted to set up a class for dog fighters to practice administering IV fluids to injured dogs, using live dogs as their practice subjects. What happened next was all about recovering the dogs and providing help that included screening, treating, rehabilitating them where possible, and, whenever appropriate, adopting them out to new families, as quickly as possible. This process was refined over a period of years. It involves people in a long list of agencies from the U. S. Marshals Service, and federal agents, Department of Justice
prosecutors, federal forfeiture attorneys and animal rescue organizations. It ’s a pr o c e s s t h a t requires immediacy. Mary Hollingsworth, an attorney with the Wildlife and Marine Resources Section at the DOJ’s Environment and National Resources Division explains, “Typically, when you’re dealing with cash or jewelry or some other inanimate object, it doesn’t matter if you wait until the end of the criminal case to deal with it. Dogs may start to decline physically and
DOG FIGHTING | SEE PAGE 10
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NEWS
Two years of sanctuary in an Albuquerque church basement
IRAQI REFUGEE CAN GO HOME
Navajo Nation President Jonathan Nez and Pueblo of Zuni Governor Val R. Panteah, Sr., front row, center, at the signing for the Running for Stronger and Healthier Navajo and Zuni Nation proclamation in Zuni, N.M. on June 21. Photo Credit: Navajo Nation, opvp
Navajo Nation and Pueblo of Zuni unite to promote health, wellness Staff Reports
Z
UNI, N.M. – Navajo Nation P resident Jon a t h a n Nez a nd Pueblo of Zuni Gov. Val R. Panteah came together at the Zuni Veterans Memorial Park in Zuni, N.M. June 21, as they signed the “Running for Stronger and Healthier Navajo and Zuni Nation” proclamation to promote health and wellness among the Navajo and Zuni people. The proclamation also highlights the upcoming Ninth Annual Running for a Stronger and Healthier Navajo and Zuni Nation that is scheduled to begin on July 8 through July 15. Participants in this year’s event will run through Navajo and Zuni communities. The Ninth Annual Running for a Stronger and Healthier Navajo and Zuni Nation is coordinated by the Navajo Nation Special Diabetes Program in cooperation with the Zuni Healthy Lifestyles Program, which promotes healthy lifestyles, diabetes prevention, and serves to bring awareness to obesity, cancer, chronic diseases. “The Navajo Nation and Pueblo of Zuni are committed to empowering our communities NEWS
by promoting the benefits of active living and healthy eating to live better lives,” said President Nez. “Vice President Myron Lizer and I are proud to partner with the Pueblo of Zuni as we work together on this important initiative. The proclamation states that all Navajo Nation Chapter affiliates and Pueblo of Zuni divisions and departments, health care facilities, school health, athletic programs, local communities and national organizations will combine efforts, strategic partners, and volunteers to coordinate a successful run across the Zuni Tribal lands and across the Navajo Nation. This year’s run will officially begin at Ramah Chapter on July 8 and proceed westward to Pine Hill, Zuni Pueblo, Kamp Kiwanis, Chichiltah Chapter, Bread Springs Chapter, Red Rock Chapter, Manuelito Chapter, Tseyatoh Chapter, and then to Lupton Chapter, Houck Chapter, Pine Springs Community, and St. Michaels Chapter. On July 14, the participants will proceed to Window Rock where they will join horseback riders, bike riders, and others to commemorate the start of the 2019 Summer Council Session, which begins on July 15. Gov. Panteah was joined by
several Zuni Tribal Council and Zuni Healthy Lifestyles Program officials during the signing ceremony, where each expressed their support for the initiative and for working together with the Navajo Nation. President Nez also noted that the joint proclamation aligns with the Nez-Lizer Administration’s goal of working with other tribes to increase positive relationships and collaboration amongst tribal nations. Vice President Myron Lizer also met with Gov. Panteah several months ago and discussed possibilities of working together to create economic and community development opportunities in the Fort Wingate area, where both tribes have neighboring lands. “We are much stronger and powerful when we work together and speak with a united voice,” said President Nez. “With the signing of this proclamation, we’re building a stronger foundation for the Pueblo of Zuni and the Navajo Nation to collaborate and work cooperatively for many years to come.” For more information about the Navajo Nation Special Diabetes Program, please visit http://www. nnsdp.org/.
Kadhim Albumohammed, his wife, Reham Majeed and their daughter Courtney Albumohammed lived in the basement of First Congregational United Church of Christ in Albuquerque for two years. Photo Credit: Andy Lyman Staff Reports
A
stressful two-year chapter of Kadhim A lbu moha m med’s life is coming to a
close. Since July 2 017, Albumohammed lived, along with his wife and daughter, in the basement of the First Congregational United Church of Christ in Albuquerque. On June 26, he addressed a crowd of about two hundred supporters after learning that he can finally leave and go home without the fear of being detained
by federal agents. “ I l o v e y o u g u y s ,” A lbu moha m med told t he crowd. Two years ago he showed up for an appointment with the U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement, fully expecting to be detained. But, because of demonstrations by suppor ters, ICE canceled Albumohammed’s appointment. But at his next s c he d u le d a p p oi nt me nt , A lbu moha m med’s law yer showed up with a letter stating that her client decided to seek sanctuary instead.
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DOG FIGHTING | FROM PAGE 8 psychologically after about six months, even in the best shelter setting. They are not meant to be in cages with limited human interaction and exercise for long periods of time.” Most dogs in fighting operations used to be euthanized, in part, because they could not be adopted until the criminal case ran its course. But in recent years, the recovery and placement process has been streamlined using a legal technique called “civil forfeiture,” in which property involved in a crime can be seized before an indictment or conviction. The forfeiture has been used in the past with drug dealers, fraudsters, and terrorist financiers. Shel l ie Rot h, a for feiture paralegal at the FBI in Columbia, S. C., said, “This is all just for the better welfare of the animals. Because the more efficiently we can get through this process, the quicker these
dogs can get adopted out to better homes.” Six puppies have been adopted out, after they were born to a rescued pit bull who didn’t survive after she received veterinary care. She was one of 64 dogs seized from ten homes in Illinois as part of a coordinated operation against dog fighting in 2016. The littermates were taken in by Laura Donaldson, who fostered them beginning at the age of three weeks. She spent a few months socializing the puppies with her four other dogs and a neighbor’s large family. She found permanent homes for all six. Donaldson kept one of the puppies herself. She named him “Porkchop.” “They’re just happy little guys,” she said. Porkchop is now three years old and weighs 60 pounds. She says three years after the other five puppies were adopted, she still gets pictures and notes from their adopting families. Seven men were sentenced to prison in Sept. 2017—more
than a year after their arrests in the Illinois dog fighting case. Animal welfare experts and law enforcement officials say dog fighting is more common than most people think. A 2015 poll by the American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals indicated that half of law enforcement officers nationwide encountered dog fighting in their line of work. Dog fighting is a felony in all 50 states. FBI investigations show there is often a nexus between dog fighting and criminal activities such as drug dealing and gambling. Samantha Maxwell at the FBI’s Springfield, Ill. office said, “It’s very organized and very underground.” Maxwell is a special agent. She coordinated the FBI gang task force during the 2016 investigation. The dogs’ seizure and rescue was managed by the U. S. Marshals and the ASPCA. The Arellano case is part of Operation Grand Champion, a coordinated effort across numerous federal judicial
A yard belonging to a member of a suspected dog fighting ring in South Carolina in 2017. Photo Credit: FBI
Porkchop, a pit bull terrier, is the offspring of a dog rescued from a 2016 dog fighting operation in Illinois. He now has a permanent home. Photo Credit: FBI districts to combat organized dog fighting. The phrase “Grand Champion” is used by dog fighters to refer to a dog with more than five dog fighting “victories.” To date, eleven defendants from five states have been convicted and sentenced to a total of 164 months in prison as part of Operation Grand Champion. Additionally, 113 dogs have been rescued, and either surrendered or forfeited to the government. The government is represented by trial attorney Ethan Eddy of the Justice Department’s Environmental Crimes Section, and Asst. U.S. Attorney Kathleen O’Leary. The case is being investigated by the U.S. Department of Ag r icu ltu re, Of f ice of Inspector General, the U.S. Depa r tment of Homela nd Security, Homeland Security
Investigations, and the Federal Bureau of Investigation. Federal enforcement of dog fighting falls under the Animal Fighting Prohibition Enforcement Act of 2007, which targets individuals directly involved in animal blood sports and prohibits interstate trafficking of animals for fighting. T he mo s t r e ce nt F BI Na t ion a l I nc ide nt - B a s e d Reporting System report for 2017 shows more than 3,200 animal cruelty incidents were reported during its first year of data collection. The Department of Justice’s Env ironment a nd Natural Resources Division, which refined the civil forfeiture process for animals, has assisted in about 1,000 dog seizures in the past three years.
I-40 Construction at Exit 39: Have Patience & Plan Trip Times Travelers and truckers planning to travel on I-40 near Exit 39, east of Gallup and north of Jamestown, are encouraged to have patience and plan travel times to avoid delays if possible. From Mile Marker 37.6 to Mile Marker 42.8, the following traffic impacts are in place until later this summer: • • • •
I-40 is reduced to one lane in each direction (east and west) The Exit 39 bridge is also reduced to one lane The on-ramp and off-ramp at Exit 39 are open, but have detours Traffic begins backing up at approximately 2:30-3 p.m. daily, and backups can last until 8 p.m. Higher volumes of weekend traffic can cause backups to last longer from Friday-Sunday. In addition, if there is a crash, drivers can expect longer backups and delays.
What You Can Do • • • •
Plan your trip through this area in the morning or early afternoon. Be aware that commercial vehicles such as trucks have to travel slower for safety reasons. Obey all posted traffic signs in the construction zone. Expect delays and give yourself extra time to reach your destination.
The Reason for Construction
This stretch of I-40 is old and unsafe. Once construction is completed later this summer, it will provide: • Improved safety • Improved roadway structural integrity • New acceleration and deceleration lanes on the ramps at Exit 39 • New guard rails, signage and roadway striping • Improved erosion control Fisher Ad_06202019-B-Gallup Sun.indd 1 10 Friday June 28, 2019 • Gallup Sun
Get updated traffic information at
For more information about the project, contact: Delane Baros, Public Information Officer, NMDOT District 6, (505) 285-3200, Delane.Baros@state.nm.us Patti Watson, (505) 245-3134 or (505) 269-969 pattiw@cwastrategic.com
NMRoads.com Travel Information
Cristofer Romero, (505) 245-3138 or (505) 231-2467 cristoferr@cwastrategic.com www.nmroads.com
CN 6101131 6/21/19 10:42 AM
NEWS
WEEKLY DWI REPORT Staff Reports Marlinda Sarah Jake June 7 6:42 pm Aggravated DW I (3rd offense) Dep. Cecil Sanders saw a GMC truck matching the descr iption of a vehicle that was swerving all over the road on State Hwy. 371 in Thoreau. He saw a woman get into the maroon extended cab pickup and drive it forward, then turn around and park on the east side of a Red Mesa gas station. He drove over to do a wellness check and made contact with Marlinda Sarah Jake, the driver. As Jake exited the vehicle, Sanders noticed an open “Four Loko” gold can on the console. Sanders smelled alcohol. Her eyes appeared blood shot and her speech seemed slurred. She told the deputy she was
drinking, but not that much. Sa nder s ex pla i ned t he field sobriety tests and Jake said she understood. She lost count on the first test and did not maintain her balance on the second test. Sanders placed Jake under a r re s t for Dr iv i ng W h i le Intoxicated and placed double locked handcuffs on her. She was transported to the MCSO and given a breatha ly zer. T he re su lt s were 0.24/0.24. Inside the vehicle he found four more cans of “Four Loko” and an open 18 pack of Steel Reserve with seven full cans inside. T he pa s senger, My ron Johnson, was also intoxicated and was taken to the Gallup Detox Center. The vehicle was towed to the A&A Towing yard. Tilton Melikan June 4 5:59 pm DUI (1st offense) Dep. Frank Villa Jr. conducted a traffic stop after he saw a gray Dodge Ram
traveling southbound on State H w y. 6 0 2 with sun screening material extending down more than five inches from the top of its windshield. The truck had a temporary license plate of NM-19T181622. When approached, the passenger, identified as Derrick Melikan, said the window does not roll down, and exited the vehicle. Villa told driver Tilton Melikan why he was being stopped. Upon request for his driver’s license, registration and insurance, he said he had no license and then gave his name and birthdate. When he returned to the vehicle to find out about the registration and insurance, the deputy said he could smell alcohol and asked the driver if he had been drinking. Tilton Melika n said he had four
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12-ounce cans of “Natural Light” that morning, the last one around 4:30 am. He said he had started drinking in the afternoon. Tilton Melikan refused to take the field sobriety tests. He said he did not want to take them because he believed he would fail. Villa placed him under arrest for DWI. After asking Derrick if he, too, had been drinking, Villa was told he had not. However, Derrick said that Tilton told him he had had a six-pack of “Budlight” cans. Tilton said that number might be accurate. Tilton Melikan was taken to the MCSO. He gave two breath samples of .14 and.13. Villa then took him to the jail where he was booked. Raymond Lee May 11, 1:50 pm Aggravated DUI D e p . C a l e b K le e b er ger was dispatched to A llsups a t 18 01 S . Second St. in response to a call about a drunk driver in a Chevrolet pickup at pump four. The reporting female was with the passenger from the truck. Kleeberger stopped the vehicle when it pulled away from the pump and approached South Second Street, a busy roadway. The driver identified himself as Raymond Lee. K leeberger obser ved a strong smell of alcohol and that Lee had glassy, watery eyes. When asked, Lee denied consuming any alcoholic beverages. He said he had a head injury from a long time ago.
Lee agreed to take the field sobriety tests. He said he could not perform the Walk and Turn test because of a problem with his feet. He also could not perform the One Leg Stand test. An alternate test, which included counting while touching thumb to finger, was introduced. But Lee was unable to perform it correctly. Kleeberger determined Lee was too impaired to operate a vehicle. Lee’s wife, Tina Lee, was inside the vehicle. She said her husband had been swerving all over the road and almost ran into other vehicles. Raymond Lee was arrested for DUI. He gave consent for a breath test. After a 20 minute deprivation period, his breath was tested at 2:35 pm. He tested at 0.29g/210L and 0.28g/210L. Metro Dispatch advised that Lee had priors and was on the felony list. He was booked into McKinley C ou nt y Adu lt D e t e nt ion Center. Cody Brown May 7, 6:41 pm Aggravated DUI (2nd offense, refusal) Narcotics agents conducted a traffic stop at the A llsups at 112 A r nold St. When Agt. L. Desiderio c a l l e d fo r a ma rked p a t r o l unit, Gallup Patrolman Joe Roanhorse responded at 6:45 pm. Agt. C. Wommack had detained the driver of a red 2006 Pontiac G6 on the ground,
DWI REPORT | SEE PAGE 23
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Gallup, June 19 The bustle of the Gallup Flea Market means that things can be overlooked sometime, as one person recently found out. McKinley County Sheriff Deputy Jeff Barnhurst was advised that a male was going to come into the department and make a report that someone had given him a counterfeit $100 bill. The victim was at the flea market on June 15 selling items like tires and DVDs. Several days later, he returned to Gallup to pay a bill with the money he made at the flea market, and that’s when he realized the $100 bill was fake. With the busy state of the flea market and how many transactions he had made, the victim had no idea who the culprit could be. No suspects are known at this time.
CHASE AND ASSAULT Gallup, June 19 McKinley County Sheriff Deputy Gilbert Padilla was dispatched to one mile west of the Mendoza Road and Nizhoni Boulevard intersection to assist Gallup Police Department. Upon arriving, Padilla met Officer Timothy Hughte, who had responded to an incident on Mendoza wherein a woman said she had been chased off the road and assaulted with a knife, and was eventually
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transported to Gallup Indian Medical Center. Padilla described a white Chevrolet parked off the side of the road with both front doors open and various items scattered on the floor of the vehicle. The driver’s side windshield had been damaged as well. After making calls to have the vehicle picked up, Padilla met with the victim. He was told that the victim had been driving on Mendoza when she felt a jolt, from something hitting her vehicle from behind, and her vehicle went off the road. Upon stopping, the victim said the door was opened and an unidentified male wearing a ski mask and black clothes brandished a knife and hit her in the face. A second unidentified male, with black shirt, blue jeans, and ski mask, was standing behind the vehicle. Then there was an unidentified female, with a red sweater, Nike-style shoes, and black hair tied in a ponytail, rummaging through the front of the vehicle. The victim said the three
assailants spoke to each other in the Zuni language, and eventually drove off eastbound on Mendoza in a white sedan, possibly a Pontiac, with dark tinted windows, stock rims, and yellow license plate. Afterwards, the victim was seen by a doctor and released from GIMC.
HANDGUN THEFT Pinehaven, June 18 A male resident of Pine Garden Drive was getting ready to leave home about noon when he realized a wooden console in the back of his pickup truck was missing. The male drove to the intersection of Pine Grove Drive and Pinehaven Road, where he spotted the console lying by the side of the road. The console was broken with its top part missing, and two handguns were gone. One was described a 9mm Tanfolia TZ 75 with wooden grips and flames engraved on the grips. The second was identified as a Heritage Rough Rider .22 revolver. The handguns
SHED BURGLARY Gallup, June 9 Several missing items from the backyard of a Rosita Street resident and a suspicious person leaving the area were the details given to McKinley County Sheriff Deputy Cecil Sanders when he arrived. After making contact with the victim, Sanders was told the victim had seen someone rummaging in her neighbor’s yard. This person then left the area on a small four-wheeler with a handful of items in their possession. The victim checked the shed in her yard and found the two-by-four glass window on the shed was broken and several items were missing from the inside. According to the victim, the person on the four-wheeler drove north on Rostia Street then west on Hubble Street. No other information is available at this time.
POLICE ACTIVITY | SEE PAGE 21
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NEEDS YOUR HELP of McKinley County New Mexico
TO SOLVE THIS CASE!
WHAT: Male victim of a homicide WHO: Nelson Thompson, Jr., 66 years old WHERE: Downtown Gallup, East Hwy. 66 Across from the new Skate Park
WHEN: August 8, 2018; early morning
Nelson Thompson Jr.
IF YOU HAVE ANY INFORMATION ABOUT THIS CASE, YOU COULD RECEIVE A REWARD OF UP TO...........
$1,000.00$ 1-877-722-6161 YOUR NAME, PHONE NUMBER AND ADDRESS WILL REMAIN CONFIDENTIAL
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Gallup, June 21 A f t e r b e i n g advised that two inmates had gotten into a fistfight a nd one of them w a n t e d t o f i l e a Damon Williams compla int a g a i n s t t h e o t h e r, McKinley C o u n t y S h e r i f f Deputy Ben Benally was dispatched to the McKinley Brian McIntire County Adult Detention Center. When Benally met with Da mon W i l l i a m s, 2 3, of Gamerco, he was told that Brian McIntire, 33, of Carlsbad, was talking harshly towards Williams the night before, and that he was assaulted by McIntire when he stood up to him. Correctional officers intervened, and Williams left with a scratch on his face with no other indicated injuries. Benally spoke with McIntire about the incident, but McIntire did not cooperate with Benally. No further action was indicated on the report.
FRAUD
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Staff Reports
are valued at $500 and $200 respectively. No other information is available at this time.
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NEWS
Large marijuana haul found in truck of hotel guest Staff Reports
G
allup police were called to Comfort Suites at 1:11 am June 26 in response to a report by security personnel. Officers were told about a man pushing “bags” between the fence dividing Comfort Suites
and Townhouse Suites. Those bags were later discovered to be full of marijuana. When officers checked the registration of a male they were questioning, it matched a vehicle in the Comfort Suites lot. They found a 2007 silver Toyota Tundra with a damaged bed cover. They noticed a large
Gallup Police Officers Harland Soseeah (left), John Gonzales, and K-9 Officer Niro stand in front of the narcotics seized. Photo Credit: Knifewing Segura
What 256 pounds of Narcotics look like. Photo Credit: Knifewing Segura
James Rutledge
Aggravated robbery turns into pot bust WEAPONS PULLED OUTSIDE THE GALLUP INDIAN MEDICAL CENTER Staff Reports
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n June 21, shortly after noon, Gallup police responded to a call at the Gallup Indian Medical Center after an employee said there was a male who pulled a firearm and demanded money from someone outside the building. The male with the weapon wa s descr ibed a s Native American, about six feet tall, with a thin build and short NEWS
hair, wearing a black and white checkered long sleeve shirt and blue jeans. Police talked to the victim; also a male. That person, later identified as Elijah Ivan Touchine, of Churchrock, said the man with the gun was Isaiah. That was the only name he knew him by. Touchine said the two were to meet for a pot sale, but that when Isaiah pulled a handgun tucked into his front belt line, he feared for his life and gave him all his money.
A lso at the scene wa s G e n i v a A l v a r e z , 19, o f Churchrock. She a nd Touchine were interviewed by investigators. There were no shots fired a nd no injur ies repor ted. However, after Alvarez said that her partner accepted money for marijuana, the two were charged with distribution of marijuana, and conspiracy, two fourth degree felonies. Isaiah was not located or identified.
Clarence Begay quantity of narcotics inside. The male was Clarence Begay, 24 of Prewitt, N. M. Begay admitted to breaking
into the vehicle and taking eight bags of “weed” from the truck. Officers also made contact with the truck’s owner, James Rutledge, 41 of Lubbock, Tex. He was a guest of the hotel. Begay was booked into the McKinley County Detention Cent er on one cou nt of Breaking and Entering. Rutledge was booked on one count of Possession of Marijuana, a third degree felony. A sea rch wa r ra nt wa s e xe c u t e d o n t he t r u ck , which yielded 250 pounds of marijuana. More charges are pending on James Rutledge.
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Gallup Sun • Friday June 28, 2019
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BID discusses importance of advertising budget By Cody Begaye Sun Correspondent
T
he Gallup Business Improvement District spent ti me du r i ng their two recent meetings discussing the operating budget for FY19-20. The budget draft presented June 26 shows a total income of about $371,185 against expenses totaling $304,788, for a net income of $66,397. One of the main talking points was the amount spent on ma rketi ng, a tot a l of $13,350. Of that amount, the BID plans to spend $6,000 on print advertising. The question then was where and how the print advertising would be handled. District member Sammy
Chioda said June 26 that running a quarterly ad in a local publication and updating the Gallup BID website to direct visitors to downtown businesses is a good move for the district. “Ma i nt a i n i ng presence [through ads and the website] is good,” he said. Other areas of the marketing budget include radio advertisements, signs and banners from New Mexico Logos, and web content. These areas make up the remaining $7,350 of the marketing budget for FY19-20. Francis Bee, executive director for the BID, said at the June 20 meeting that the district should aim to advertise downtown events more broadly to draw more traffic to those events and businesses.
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Bee also emphasized the importance of the marketing budget during that meeting. “Advertising keeps people aware of what we’re doing,” he said. The budget was just a discussion item for the June 20 meeting, so the BID agreed to hold a special meeting June 26 to vote on approving the finalized FY budget. District member James Rich said June 26 the BID has undergone a change in its marketing strategies in recent years, going from asking for support from local businesses to grow, to now being asked for support by local businesses for their functions. “We’ve partnered with a lot of [businesses], so we have to get creative on how we partner with them now,” Rich said. Currently, the BID has budgeted $25,600 for events such as ArtsCrawl, Relay for Life, the Gallup Inter-Tribal Indian Ceremonial, Downtown Christmas, and Lions Club Downtown.
LIQUOR LICENSE | FROM PAGE 6 events,]” Mason said. Dist. 4 Councilor Fran Palochak said that a number of hotels in her district are vacant, so it makes her happy to see new hotels and the efforts of those business owners. She added that the transfer of the license with the business it could bring to the west side, is a win-win for Gallup. “The liquor is served within the hotel only, so it is not a problem in the area, and there are big spaces to have events,” Palochak said. “I am pleased that [K.A. Rose, LLC] is here to do this.” The item was approved with a 4-0-0 vote. Other items discussed at the meeting: • The annual request for street closures for the monthly ArtsCrawl was approved with a 4-0-0 vote. Dist. 4 Councilor
F ra n Pa locha k pra ised ArtsCrawl Director Rhonda Quintana for her work, stating the event is wonderful and gets bigger every month. • The request for street closures and a special dispenser’s permit for the beer garden for The Route 66 Freedom Ride and Gurley Motors Car Show was approved with a 4-0-0 vote. Mayor Jackie McKinney said the events have been good for downtown Gallup and the community loves them. • T h ree it em s f rom t he Behavioral Health Investment Zone were approved with a 4-0-0 vote. The items are agreements for Administration of Detox Services, intensive counseling at Na’Nizhoozhi Center Inc., and aftercare services at Rehoboth McKinley Ch r i st i a n Hea lt h Ca re Services. The BHIZ budget for the three items totals to under $1.1 million.
OBITUARIES LENNY ESPARZA Leonard “Len” Esparza, 60 years old, went to go be with our Lord and Savior Friday, June 21, 2019. Len was a strong Christian man who was a testament to his family, friends, and everyone he met throughout his life. He was a talented artist and enjoyed cars of every type, but Hot Wheels held a special place in his heart. He worked for the Gallup McKinley County School System for over 30 Lenny Esparza years and enjoyed teaching and encouraging students to see education as a gift, rather than a chore. He is survived by his wife, Kimberly Esparza; daughter, Larissa Winstead; son-in-law, Chad Winstead; grandson, Cyrus Winstead; son, Savieay Esparza; daughter-in-law, Cora Esparza; daughter, Casia Esparza; and sister, Clara Landavazo. He also leaves behind many cherished family members. The family of Len Esparza will be having a Celebration of his Life Saturday, July 6, 2019 from 1:00 p.m. to 3:00 p.m., at the Sacred Heart Cathedral Family Center, 415 E. Green Ave. Gallup, NM. The celebration will be an open house for family and friends alike, to come share memories and stories of his life. Please visit our online guestbook for Len at www.FrenchFunerals.com
FERMAN SILAGO Ferman Silago, 41, of Springstead, N. M. died June 23. He was preceded in death by mother, Irene K. Silago, Grandparents Frank and Lucy Kasuse. He is survived by seven children, Telisha A. Silago, Durantz F. Silago, Unique S. Silago, Folaya I. Silago, Dainian F. Silago, Destiny BigCrow, and Tamiya Silago. His father, Francis Silago, Siblings, Sheila Silago – Lynch and Adrian “Ace” Silago. Funeral services will be held July 1 at 10 am. Interment will be at the family plot in Springstead, N.M. The family will receive friends at the Gallup Community Center after funeral services. Funeral is at Rehoboth Christian Church.
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Friday June 28, 2019 • Gallup Sun
NEWS
OPINIONS NM Senators secure $30 million for border humanitarian relief Staff Reports
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ASHINGTON, D.C. – On June 26, U.S. Senators Tom Ud a l l ( D -N.M .) and Martin Heinrich (D-N.M.) secured $30 million in reimbursement funds for localities and non-governmental organizations in New Mexico and elsewhere that are providing much-needed humanitarian
relief to asylum seekers. The measure was included in a $4.6 billion border supplemental funding agreement that passed the Senate June 26. The agreement includes emergency funding to address the humanitarian crisis at the border, with significant funding for legal assistance, food, water, and medical services, as well as stronger protections for unaccompanied children.
The agreement requires the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services to prioritize community-based care, foster care, and small group homes over large institutional facilities. “ Ne w M e x i c a n s h a v e stepped up to protect vulnerable children a nd
HUMANITARIAN | SEE PAGE 19
MADAME G
Senator Martin Heinrich
Senator Tom Udall
GUIDE TO THE STARS WEEK OF JULY 1
This week, take a moment to walk outside and experience the freshness of summer. This season is special and requires your attention. When life gets you down take in the benefits of nature and explore the world around you. Madame G recommends you take time to enjoy your life.
ARIES (March 21-April 19)
CANCER (June 21-July 22)
LIBRA (Sept. 23-Oct.22)
CAPRICORN (Dec. 22-Jan. 19)
Sometimes, it feels as if life is pushing you forward and jerking you around like a washing machine. Anyone can easily become overwhelmed and tired of this constant back-and-forth. You’re not the only one. Instead of forcing yourself away from a certain subject, take a moment to evaluate your thoughts. Care for your feelings, and then you can let them go. Peace.
You’re almost there. Don’t give up. But, once you’re done-you’re on to the next one just like in that Jay-Z song. That’s a great workout song, but it’s not the best way to live your life. You can do so much more than you’re giving yourself credit for. You don’t need to stop being you. You just need to live the life that is right for you. Don’t follow some else’s script.
Perfectionism hurts many people, and they might not even realize they’re perfectionists. You might think that sloppy people can’t be perfectionists, which isn’t true. Sometimes you can be so stifled by a sense of perfectionism, that you don’t even try to make anything better because of a fear of failure. Is that you? Got perfectionism? Well, take a breath. You’re doing fine.
TAURUS (April 20-May 20)
Take care of your mental health. This is not often discussed as much as your physical health. But, your mental health is just as important, if not more. You can’t change the world. You can only work on yourself. You can’t prevent bad things from happening, but you can understand yourself in relation to them. Keep an honest and open mind. Do your best.
Be happy in the here and now, this is all we have. You can do this. Don’t leave others behind. Don’t backtrack on promises, Libra, but also, don’t be a martyr. If you said yes to something non-essential that is stressing you out, call and make another arrangement. Odds are, people will be happy to work with you on finding a more flexible solution—and the sooner you reach out, the more time you’ll both have to drum that up.
SCORPIO (Oct. 23-Nov. 21)
Don’t give up on your dreams. You can do this. Don’t give up hope. Focus on the parts that you can solve. Under this twice-yearly mashup, the slope is slippery. Step out of the room to cool down instead of blowing up on someone you love. Turn away from chaotic people who, while entertaining, have been known to wreak havoc on your serenity.
Got some loose ends to tie up? Maybe it’s an errand you keep putting off, an item you need to return or an inevitable conversation you can no longer avoid. Dreading the task is taking up far more energy than actually doing it. This doesn’t have to sap your entire week.
GEMINI (May 21-June 20) You can do this! You’re only moments away from the final selection. You may also want to force yourself to think everything through. There’s no need to face disappointment about what could or should have happened. In the end, you must live with your decisions. It’s not just about getting picked by someone for something. You also need to evaluate the situation for yourself. OPINIONS
LEO (July 23-Aug. 22)
VIRGO (Aug. 23-Sept. 22) Life is not about forgetting or only doing what you’re good at. Sometimes, you need to get up and have a hard day, fight, or get punched in the metaphorical behind. These moments are tough and painful, but we are capable of more than we think. Don’t give up on yourself. Don’t give up on your loved ones. Make the most out of what you have here and now. Do your best.
Emotional agility is more than just a buzz word. It’s also a state of mind. You must be resilient and strong to survive and be happy. We all have choices to make and burdens to carry. Our way forward can lead to many great discoveries. Do you best today and keep moving forward, no matter how slowly and surely you go. Just go!
SAGITTARIUS (Nov. 22-Dec. 21) Don’t look back that’s a pointless struggle. You are who you are. You may not be able to change everything, but that doesn’t mean you can’t live the best life possible. Keep moving forward. You’re doing the best you can and that’s good enough!
AQUARIUS (Jan. 20-Feb. 18)
PISCES (Feb. 19-March 20) This is the time to be joyful. When you feel alone, neglected, and worthless, feel as bad as you like and celebrate that feeling. Nurture yourself. You don’t need to be afraid of the bad feelingsthe mean feelings that strip you of courage and make you feel weak. Embrace those feelings. They are neither good nor bad. They are just like you-they exist.
Gallup Sun • Friday June 28, 2019
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Bezo and the Biffoon In the 80’s there was a high school character called Biff, much like the one in the movie Back to the Future. He was kind of a big clunky bullying-type of person. Biff was a nickname, short for Biffoon. Biff hated his name as much as people hated his bullying, but he never noticed the parallel. In time, ironically, Biff went to work for a newspaper where he could continue bullying people with his words or stores. He didn’t care about the truth; he was interested in bullying. He finally ended up at a small western town newspaper serving as its editor. He liked to attack the city leaders, county leaders, school board leadership, and church leadership, and made it a practice to rotate his flame throwing verbiage to the various parties. The only party he didn’t attack was Bezo, the newspaper publisher of the company for whom he worked. On the global scale, Biff mimicked the President, the members of congress, and the National news media. They too, seemed to relish creating fake news and denied their own words in order to create new sensational stories. This was the world relished by Biffoon. On one occasion, Biffoon (Biff) attacked the hospital. His boss came to him and said “Biff, I think this article is particularly harsh even for me.” Biff replied, “Bezo, our only concern is selling newspapers. You know that we’re hurting financially. We aren’t interested in the truth. We are just interested in selling newspapers. For example; we can ask the hospital if they have a high turnover rate in employees. It doesn’t matter that the whole hospital grew by 220+ employees in a very slow-growing population center. The point is, it will sound as if the hospital has a problem…and that sells newspapers. We create or repeat lies, and people will gather to watch us whip the other guys in to submission.” The problem with Biff and Bezo is that they see little value in building the esteem of a town or its people, just as Congress and the President don’t see much value in working together. So too are Bezo and Biff dedicated to creating turmoil. It also doesn’t occur to them that people prefer to live in a community that is friendly and encouraging and proud. Maybe our world will be better when we understand the mindset of the ‘Biffoons’ and pray together that their minds be healed. They have the ability to heal rather than hurt the community.
Authors note: This story is purely fictitious. It bears no resemblance to any person living or dead. It is intended solely to cause reflection on the importance of truthfulness and kindness in a nationally politicized climate. When politicians and the media throw verbal fake news to the public, they can cause irreparable harm.
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Friday June 28, 2019 • Gallup Sun
COMMUNITY
COMMUNITY
Relay for Life of Gallup 2019 GOING WILD FOR A CURE MEETS ITS GOAL
By Dee Velasco For the Sun
M
a rk i ng yea r 20, Relay for Life for Gallup McKinley County 2019 drew hundreds of people to remember those taken by cancer and help celebrate survivors. The two-day event was held at the McKinley County Courthouse Square in Gallup June 21 and 22. The occasion was filled with activities, games, and special guests. Included were a scavenger hunt, Zumba, an auction, and raffles with a number of prizes including a Jeep Cherokee, two first-class, round trip tickets to anywhere in the world, or $5,000. As part of the Relay for Life effort to focus awareness on cancer, fundraising teams are formed. Some of them have colorful names like Guys and Dolls, Ups and Downs, and Team Fort. This year the teams participated in a parade displaying the theme Going Wild for Cancer. Each team chose a different animal, or anything related to wild animals for the parade. Sponsorship Chair Linda Sheldon said, “After 20 years, we’re Going Wild for a Cure. It was exciting to see the teams make their way across the front, so that everyone can see what animal they chose.” The fundraising goal this year was $75,000 dollars. It fell just short of that, raising over $74,000 dollars. According to Event Chair Melinda Russell, pledges are still coming in. Kids and adults all chipped in. And in the end, Peter Campos, who has played disc jockey for the event for 19 years, pitched in the last $550 to make the goal. Navajo Nation President Jonathan Nez was one of the speakers who welcomed participants. Also at the event was 2013-2015 Inaugural Navajo Nation Poet Laureate Luci Tapahonso. Tapahonso, whose family members suffered with cancer, COMMUNITY
From left: Peter Campos (PJ the DJ, who has participated for 19 years and this year pledged $550 to make Relay for Life reach its goal.) Survivor Chair Joyce Graves, Sponsorship Chair Linda Sheldon, Event Chair Melinda Russell in front of the McKinley County Courthouse Square during the 2019 Relay for Life event. Photo Credit: Eileen D’Orazio after working in the uranium mines, is the author of at least eight books of poetry, and has been anthologized in others. She has written about cancer, among other topics. At the Relay for Life she shared a poem about enjoying life from her book, A Breeze Swept Through. “I wa s sur p r ised you needed only that: gentle touching, quiet little song and you gave me a new confidence. I had lost it somewhere during that time, the easy laughter returned.” Excerpt from “For Lori, This Christmas I want to thank you in this way” For her part, Russell said, “I was amazed at the entire event from the very get-go. A local
baseball team along with their coaches and parents showed up to help. Later, Girl Scouts came to help fill the luminaria bags, and the City of Gallup also pitched in. The crowd was just wonderful and to have the Navajo Nation President Jon a t h a n Nez a nd Luc y Tapahonso here was a treat.” Russell said aside from the special guests; 16 teams helped out compared to only nine last year. That made it easier to recruit for the 20 year anniversary, and easier to raise money. “It’s our 20 year anniversary, so we really went all out to do everything better than we did last year. That doesn’t mean we did anything wrong last year. It just means we had to put a little more effort into this year,” she said. Keeping track of this years’
sur vivor list was Sur vivor Chair Joyce Graves. According to Graves, this year’s number of sur vivors attending the event was down from last year which was around 90. Graves attributes it to the weather. Nevertheless, these survivors traveled great distances from as far away as Wichita, Kan. Others came from Albuquerque and Cortez, Colo. “Anything that deals with the survivors we get them organized,” she said. “We make sure they get signed up and give them a t-shirt. We even had all of them pose for a picture to remember what they’ve gone through and are going through.” And no matter what, Graves says, keeping survivors abreast of events is key. One survivor who remembers is Stephanie Plummer, who had Stage 2B brea st
cancer. Having survived for over a year now, Plummer related how scared she was when she found out she had cancer. She didn’t know what was going to happen. All the unknowns in her future worried her. Once diagnosed she started going in for cancer treatment at the New Mexico Cancer Center here in Gallup. That’s where she learned about Relay For Life. “I saw f lyers from last year’s event and decided to come here,” she said. “Since my remission, I then made the choice to give back by volunteering at the center and became involved with this event. My whole outlook on life has changed, and I live my life every second, I pray every day, and try to find the goodness and the beautifulness in my surroundings.”
Gallup Sun • Friday June 28, 2019
17
RMCHCS Alcohol and Substance Abuse Treatment Program Receives National Recognition Staff Reports
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n June 10, Rehoboth McKinley Christian Health Care Services’ Subst a nce Abu se Treatment Program was recognized by the Rural Health Information Hub through a case study describing the hospital’s program. The study provides insights into the goals the hospital has achieved by profiling RMCHCS’ program on the hub’s Rural Health Models & Innovations section. This section of the website features a national collection of successful rural health programs and interventions maintained by RHIH. The Rural Health Information Hub is funded by the Federal Office of Rural Health Policy to be a national clearinghouse on rural health issues. It is committed to supporting healthcare and population health in rural communities. “RHIH’s recognition of our Substance Abuse Treatment Program is further validation of its success,” David Conejo,
CEO, RMCHCS, said. “We hope though the national attention our case study will receive, that other hospitals nationwide will share our success. Quality rural healthcare is important in enabling small town residents to receive the same care you find in urban areas.” T he Sub s t a nce A bu se Treatment Program is available to Gallup and McKinley County residents seeking assistance with addiction. Many of the program’s participants are former homeless residents who benefited from an outreach program jointly operated by RMCHCS and the Immediate Action Group, a Gallup non-profit organization. The outreach provides food, clothing and medical care to participants.
TREATMENT AND TECHNOLOGY HELP ADDICTS The recognition the program received from RHIH was twofold: for the treatment of addiction itself and the innovative method RMCHCS used to advance addiction healthcare.
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Friday June 28, 2019 • Gallup Sun
Pictured rear from left: Jason King, Leander Bitsie, Nathan Begay (in tan hat), Loren Mescale (red hat). Front from left: Manuel Chavaria (black cap), Francina Smith, RMCHCS CEO David Conejo, crew manager Bill Camorata from the Rural Health RMCHCS Community Worker Service Program taken in the vicinity of the Mossman section of Gallup. Photo Credit: RMCHCS The treatment program enrolls clients for a 90-day period of detoxification, treatment, and workplace preparation, instead of the traditional 30or 60-day period. The extension allows for more time to establish sobriety and has seen lower relapse rates than other programs. There is also a heavy focus on career readiness and work placement. Clients are taught
new skills and can hone their occupational expertise through supervised work placements and course work. For those convicted of a crime related to alcohol or substance misuse, the program offers an alternative to serving jail time. Regular probation meetings and appointments before a judge are required, but many have taken the opportunity for a second chance.
BEHAVIORAL HEALTH SERVICE SOFTWARE AND PHONE APP Medical and behav ioral health providers track each client’s progress through a behav iora l hea lth ser v ice app from Zoeticx, a software platform that enables providers to treat addiction in new ways. “Zoeticx is pleased to work with RMCHCS to help the many addicts in McKinley County,” Zoeticx CEO Tha nh Tra n said. “Our ProVizion software suite not only helps patients, but helps hospitals achieve Commission on Accreditation for Rehabilitation Facilities recognition, which documents and enforces CARF requirements to the point of care.” The app securely monitors the health of the client based on criteria set by providers. The app is linked to RMCHCS’s electronic medical record system and is used by providers to identify patients and manage their health data. The app has the capability to produce reports based on patient data
that can quickly be compiled and used to develop successful treatment plans. Providers can customize reports to identify at-risk patients, diagnose their symptoms, and monitor their treatment success in real time. Reports are focused on the following: • Care report planning • Evidence-based reporting • Resource utilization • Healthcare benefits • Patient care progress • Trial and error The app also reminds clients of their probation appointments through a calendar and keeps track of attendance by allowing the client to check in through a selfie sign-in, a photo feature that relies on facial recognition to open, that is time-stamped and geotagged. A provider database allows RMCHCS counselors and providers to check the client’s progress. The app also helps streamline follow-up care and can help measure the effectiveness of the program and recidivism rate. It measures client compliance rates through the attendance of judicial meetings, 12-step group meetings, counseling sessions, testing, and medical appointments. The use of the app is completely free to the client. This method has not only helped clients maintain their physical health and sobriety, but it also leaves a positive impression on judges during appearances in court. For more information, contact: William Madaras (William@Glasslanternpr. com) COMMUNITY
Five things you never knew about Capt. Erin Toadlena-Pablo 1. She collects Star Wars figures. 2. She was a part of the 1996 3A High School AZ Basketball State Champion Team. 3. When she was younger she had two goldfish named “Crockett” and “Tubbs” 4. She is named after her father “Aaron.” 5. Her clans are Naakai Diné’é (Mexican clan) and she is born for Tódich’ii’nii (Bitter Water clan).
Capt. Erin Toadlena-Pablo, in her off-hours. Photo Credit: Capt. Erin Toadlena-Pablo
Capt. Erin Toadlena-Pablo, recently promoted from lieutenant in the Gallup Police Department. Photo Credit: Capt. Erin Toadlena-Pablo
HUMANITARIAN | FROM PAGE 15 families—treating them with the care, respect and decency that is emblematic of our state,» said Udall. «I have seen firsthand how these New Mexico communities are on the front lines, and they need assistance. I am proud to have worked alongside the New Mexico delegation to secure this urgently needed funding in the final Senate agreement, and will continue working to get this over the finish line. “These funds will provide badly needed support to our communities and local organizations who have been tireless in their efforts to help those who most need it during this humanitarian crisis,” Udall added. “Like the many constituents I’ve heard from in recent days, I was sickened by the horrific conditions reported at the U.S. Border Patrol facility in West Texas,” Heinrich said. “The permanent trauma President Trump’s anti-immigrant policies are inflicting on innocent children, many of whom are refugees fleeing violence and seeking asylum, is inhumane and does not represent who we are as a nation. “However, the kindness and compassion of communities like Las Cruces, Deming,
and Albuquerque to address this humanitarian crisis on the border is truly inspiring,” Heinrich continued. “Because federal agencies have not provided for sufficient shelter and humanitarian needs for these asylum seekers, local, state, and non-governmental organizations in New Mexico are facing new and unbudgeted costs. “That is why I am proud to secure tens of millions of dollars in reimbursement funds for the border communities and non-profits who have stepped up to help. I will do everything in my power to hold the White House accountable for adhering to our laws, to American values, and for executing a clear plan to right this horrific wrong,” Heinrich said. The $30 million in reimbursement funds for localities and NGOs is provided through a Federal Emergency Management Act program called the Emergency Food and Shelter Program under the McKinney-Vento Homeless Assistance Act. These funds will provide assistance to jurisdictions and local recipient organizations serving communities that have experienced a significant influx of migrants. The funds may be used to reimburse jurisdictions and organizations for costs incurred in providing services dating back to Jan. 1.
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ATTENTION NEWS HOUNDS! Have a news tip? Want to write up a guest submission for the paper? Email us at: gallupsun@gmail.com COMMUNITY
Gallup Sun • Friday June 28, 2019
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Sharing the beauty of Spanish colonial art SNAPSHOTS FROM SACRED HEART SPANISH MARKET
Lopez, from Corrales, N.M., won Best of Show with his silver filigree sacred heart during the Sacred Heart Spanish Market June 21-23 at Sacred Heart Cathedral in Gallup. Photo Credit: Courtesy of Jerry Montoya
Frederico Prudencio, from Albuquerque, won the Carlos Otero Award for Culture and Faith at Sacred Heart Cathedral in Gallup June 21-23. Photo Credit: Courtesy of Jerry Montoya
Felipe River, from Peralta, N.M., and retablo artist Sean Wells, from Albuquerque, enjoying the Sacred Heart Spanish Market June 21-23 at Sacred Heart Cathedral in Gallup. Photo Credit: Courtesy of Jerry Montoya
20 Friday June 28, 2019 • Gallup Sun
The Bishops’ Award went to Charlie Carrillo for his amazing bulto of San Jose at the Sacred Heart Spanish Market. Photo Credit: Courtesy of Jerry Montoya
Adan Carriga, left, showcases his fabulous santos at the Sacred Heart Spanish Market June 21-23. Photo Credit: Courtesy of Jerry Montoya COMMUNITY
McKinley County woman dies of Hantavirus HEALTH DEPARTMENT URGES CARE IN SUMMER CLEANING
Staff Reports
N
ew Mexico has confirmed its first death f r om H a nt av i r u s Pulmonary Syndrome for 2019. A 42 -yea r- old McKinley County woman succumbed to the disease on June 25. Hers is the second case of HPS confirmed in the state this year. The first was a 50-yearold McKinley County woman who contracted it in May and survived. Ha ntav i r us P u l mona r y Syndrome is a severe, respiratory disease in humans that is fatal in about 40 percent of cases. In New Mexico, the deer mouse is the main carrier for Sin Nombre virus, the hantavirus strain, that can be transmitted by infected rodents through urine, droppings or saliva that contain the virus. People can contract the disease when they breathe in virus that is suspended in the air. It is not contagious between people. Although there were no cases of hantavirus reported in the state in 2018, there were five cases in 2017. These two cases have prompted the New Mexico Department of Health to remind New Mexicans to be especially careful when opening sheds, cabins and other buildings that have been closed during the cold, as mice and other rodents
POLICE ACTIVITY | FROM PAGE 12
HATCHET ATTACK Gallup, June 8 The afternoon turned v iolent for two subjects at the Gallup Flea Market, to the point where they had to be separated and one was detained by security. When McKinley County Sher i f f Deput y Jonat ha n Todacheene Jr. arrived, he spoke with a flea market vendor who said that three men, including Francesco Bufano, 25, of Brimhall, had been harassing him at his sno-cone stand. COMMUNITY
In New Mexico, the deer mouse is the main carrier for the hantavirus strain of the Sin Nombre virus. Photo Credit: Courtesy may have moved in, bringing hantavirus with them. Depa r t ment of Hea lt h Secretary Kathy Kunkel said, “Stirring up dust in areas where rodents hang out – that includes everything from nests to droppings – can cause the virus to get into the air where the particles can be breathed in. It’s best to air out cabins and sheds before entering them and wet down droppings with a disinfectant.” The NMDOH encourages both healthcare providers and the public to become familiar with the signs of hantavirus The three men then began to argue with each other, and Bufano rushed the vendor, knocking an ice chest to the ground in the process, and the two fought w ith each other. Bufa no picked up a silve r h a t c he t u s e d by t he vendor for breaking the ice for sno-cones and came at the vendor again. Both subjects were eventually pulled apar t by f lea market security officers. The vendor had sustained minor injuries while Bufano had minor scrapes on his left knee. Bufano was transported to Gallup India n Medical Center for clearance and then to McKinley County Adult Detention Center, where he was booked on aggravated battery charges.
infection: Early symptoms include fever and muscle aches, possibly with chills, headache, nausea, vomiting, diarrhea and abdominal pain and cough, which rapidly progresses to respiratory distress. These signs typically develop within
one-to-six weeks after rodent exposure. Although there is no specific treatment for HPS, chances for recovery are better if medical attention is sought early. Patients are encouraged to tell their provider if they have had an exposure to
rodents, their nests or droppings within the two months prior to their illness. Important steps to prevent contracting hantavirus include: · Air out closed-up buildings, storage rooms, trailers, cabins and overwintered vehicles before entering. · Trap mice until they are all gone. · Soak down rodent nests and droppings using a disinfectant before cleaning up. · Don’t sweep rodent droppings into the air where they can be inhaled. · Put hay, wood, and compost piles as far as possible from your home. · Get rid of trash and junk piles to reduce attracting rodents. · Don’t leave your pet’s food and water where mice can get to them. F o r m o r e i n fo r m a tion, visit the Hantavirus Pulmonary Syndrome section of our website, https:// nmhealth.org/.
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Gallup Sun • Friday June 28, 2019
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Gallup played: Scenes from Shakespeare’s ‘Twelfth Night’ PHOTOS COURTESY OF SUZANNE HAMMONS
Kelli Furney, left, playing Viola, brings letters of love to the Lady Olivia, played by Monika Crowfoot during a June 12 dress rehearsal for “Shakespeare in the Park,” produced by Gallup Repertory Theater. The play was performed at the Gallup Flea Market. Malvolio, played by Patrick Moore, center, is tricked into thinking the Lady Olivia loves him. Sir Toby Belch (Brendan Moore, left), Fabian (Braden Mogler, center), and Sir Andrew (Colin Moore, right), look on and rejoice that their prank is working.
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Sir Toby and Fabian fool Sir Andrew and Viola into dueling each other. during a June 12 dress rehearsal for “Shakespeare in the Park,” produced by Gallup Repertory Theater. The play was performed at the Gallup Flea Market.
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The knights of the play (Braden Mogler, right), taunt Malvolio (Partick Moore, left) by pretending he is possessed by the devil during a June 12 dress rehearsal for “Shakespeare in the Park,” produced by Gallup Repertory Theater.
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Olivia and Duke Orsino (right, played by Joe Carriere) fight over the “serving boy” Viola, who they each believe is in love with them.
22 Friday June 28, 2019 • Gallup Sun
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AUDIT | FROM PAGE 4 public’s concerns about service pricing and fiscal management of RMCHCS. “This audit never started as a bad thing,” he said. “This is just a chance to tell people where that public money is going.” To date, Lee said that the McKinley County Board of Commissioners and RMCHCS came to what they thought was an agreement on forensic audit terms on three separate occasions, but that each of those agreements later fell apart. As a result, both sides began offering solutions to end the stalemate. O ne cond it ion s et by RMCHCS for the audit to be done as instructed, according to Conejo, was that the hospital would hand over their financial information if Hinkle + Landers were to sign a non-disclosure agreement that stated no other entity would have access to the hospital’s financial information. Lee said this move doesn’t make any sense because the non- disclosure agreement wou ld have been so tig ht
DWI REPORT | FROM PAGE 11 after seeing the vehicle bump into a metal parking barrier. After a passenger from the car entered the business, he observed the male driver drink from a “Four Loko” (alcoholic beverage) can. The passenger reentered the ca r a nd the two left. Desiderio followed as the car turned south on Arnold St. then right on Aztec Ave. Desiderio said the car ran a stop sign, turned right on Bradley St. and again onto Hwy. 66. Then, he said, the dr iver, later identified a s Cody Brown, hit the curb. The Pontiac pulled back into Allsups and Desiderio conducted the traffic stop. When asked if he had been drinking, Brown said he had two cans of Budweiser about an hour before. He agreed to do the Standard Field Sobriety Tests. When he stumbled on the Walk and Turn Test, he was determined to be impaired and was placed under arrest for DUI. He spoke over Ofc. Roanhorse during the Implied Consent Advisory and refused COMMUNITY
that the audit fir m sa id it would violate their code of ethics, because an audit firm is required to release their findings to the county and state. “The [non-disclosure] agreement would require him as an auditor to violate his own rules and ethics and the law,” he said. “That’s not transparency.” In response, Conejo said June 20, that the non-disclosure agreement was never brought into play. He currently stands firm on having Hinkle + Landers come onsite to conduct the audit.
The McKinley County Board of Commissioners first voted to refer the hospital’s regular 2018 annual audit to the state auditor and attorney general at a regular meeting in March, Decker said. It takes about three to four months for a regular audit to finish and for the results to be made available, he added. The state auditor received the reg u la r aud it from RMCHCS sometime in early May, Decker said. The results had not been received by either RMCHCS or McKinley
County as of June 26. “R ig ht now it ’s i n t he h a nd s of t he s t a t e aud itor a nd attor ney genera l,” Decker sa id. “W hether we proceed further depends on what they find in the regular (2018) audit.” If the state attorney presents a resolution for the regular audit, Conejo said that the hospital would do what the state asks of it, including a forensic audit. Decker and Lee have also stated that. “Whatever the state auditor and attorney general decide is what we will do,” Decker said. Despite the gridlock that has arisen from this forensic audit process, Conejo said he views this as a professional disagreement and not a personal attack. Lee a lso ha s th is perspective, adding he wants the issue to be resolved in a positive manner, because the hospital provides quality of life improvements, local care and treatment for residents in the county, and is a major economic development center and employer. “I believe in our hospital. We need a good one in our community,” he said. “We just want to make sure we’re doing
the breath test. Ofc. Brandon Salazar and agents found three empty miniature shots of “Yukon Jack” in the vehicle Brown was driving and three empty cans of “Four Loko” there, as well. The passenger, Bryan Sam, was intoxicated. Sam was taken to Gallup Detox. The car was locked and secured. Roanhorse learned that Brown had a prior DUI and his driver’s license was suspended and revoked. He was booked into the McKinley County Adult Detention Center for aggravated DUI, driving while license is suspended/revoked and open container. Juliana Teller May 1, 8:08 pm DWI (1st) Gallup Patrolman Dominic Molina was dispatched to 216 Verdi Drive where Officer Richard Rangel had a black Chev rolet M a l i b u pulled over on a traffic stop. The vehicle had struck a curb and parked on a sidewalk.
The driver, later identified as Juliana Teller, 36, of Gallup, was seen picking up a bottle of Peppermint Schnapps and drinking from it. She then yelled, “I don’t give a f__k,” and drove off. The car was finally stopped at 216 Verdi. Teller reportedly smelled of liquor, had bloodshot eyes and slurred speech. She agreed to take the Standard Field Sobriety Tests. However, she threw up, and then refused to take a portable breath test. Officers Molina and Rangel walked her to a police unit and she began to mumble. They found liquor in Teller’s vehicle. After being put into the unit, Teller began kicking the door from the inside and when Molina tried to take her to the McKinley County Adult Detention Center, she became verbally disorderly and then refused to get out of the car. Molina walked her to the gate of the jail. But she was uncooperative once she got inside. She was booked into jail for aggravated DWI, an open container, and roadways laned for traffic.
TRUST ISSUES?
the best job we can to keep it going.”
DUBIOUS SPENDING? Lee said a forensic audit has the potential to fulfill the desire for full transparency from RMCHCS and put the hospital in a good light. “We can tell the public where the money is going, as well as identify the trouble areas of the hospital, so they can fix them,” he added. This result of being seen in a good light may be helpful for the hospital considering a recent story that was shared about them. Conejo spoke about how a local publication ran a story on the financial status of RMCHCS, including the regular audit, but that the story was not factual. The story involved former hospital employees and other sources making claims of high turnover rate and management problems at RMCHCS, and that the executives were planning to possibly sell off the hospital and make off with the profits. “The [story] said we refused to give information,” Conejo
said. “We tried to clarify the matter some time ago and say we don’t want the financial info. to leave the premises.” Conejo feels that the piece was run as retaliation against the hospital. When bringing up the allegations of spending funds illegally, Conejo said he would address those allegations by reminding people of the buildings and services paid for by those funds. “If we could take the public and go over the wellness center, which cost $1.5 million, I would ask them, ‘Does it exist?’” Conejo said. “It took money to build, and it’s all paid for. The center didn’t exist five years ago.” Conejo then listed other services and buildings that have been provided by RMCHCS in the past five years, including Rehoboth McKinley Behavioral Health Services, a GED school program with Navajo Technical University, numerous job programs, and new radiology and lab equipment for the hospital. “Do these things all exist?” he said. “Everything here takes money. Are we able to spend it irresponsibly and still have a bottom line of $9 million last year?”
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‘Yesterday’ is an entertaining cover that tugs on the heartstrings By Glenn Kay For the Sun
RATING: ««« OUT OF «««« RUNNING TIME: 116 MINUTES
T
he new comedy Ye s t e r d a y b o a s t s quite a pedigree. Not only does it contain covers of classic tunes from The Beatles, but it also has a wealth of talent behind the camera, including director Danny Boyle (Trainspotting, 28 Days Lat e r, S lum d og Mi l l i o n a i r e) a nd w r it er R ich a rd Cu r t i s (B r i d g e t Jones’s Diary, Love Actually, Pirate Radio, About Time). Admittedly, the film may not mark career highpoints for either participant. However, there is a great deal of affection present for its subject and the movie ultimately comes
across as sweet, breezy, and enjoyable. Jack Malik (Himesh Patel) is a struggling musician in a seaside English town whose life is literally turned upside down after being struck by a bus during a sudden and unexplained power outage. After regrouping with friends, he discovers that none of them, including manager Ellie (Lily James), have ever heard of The Beatles. When a search of the internet shows that the band (and some other amusing staples of the world he once knew) have completely vanished, the protagonist decides to try to use their music as his chance at fame. In doing so, he draws the attention of artist Ed Sheeran and big-time L.A. record promoter, Debra (Kate McKinnon). Sections of the film dealing with music as a backdrop are particularly strong, as the lead struggles to understand what is occurring and remember
Struggling musician Jack Malik (Himesh Patel) plays Beatles tunes for his manager Ellie (Lily James) in ‘Yesterday,’ as he tries to introduce the Fab Four’s music to people who are unfamiliar with it, and make a claim to fame. Photo Credit: Universal Pictures
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all of the songs and lyrics of The Beatles. And a great many amusing moments are derived from some unusual internet searches, as well as from a strange pair of strangers shadowing the performer, which pays off in an effective and unexpected way. Of course, the patronizing and less-than-enthused responses from family members towards Jack’s latest compositions also earn laughs. These scenes even prompt Jack to wonder if he isn’t charismatic enough to earn the attention that the music deserves. The actor also appears to be performing all the tunes himself and he does an exceptional job of belting out famous tracks from the band’s catalog. What doesn’t work quite as well is the fairly predictable romantic subplot between Jack and the lovelorn Ellie. As the protagonist becomes more and more successful, he begins to seriously question his motivations and whether fame and professional success truly equate happiness in life. It’s an interesting idea for examination, although the movie keeps their interplay relatively light and the climactic
resolution is a little too quick and cleanly wrapped up for this reviewer’s tastes. At least it’s all elevated by charming leads who do make the most of the routine plotting. The movie’s most effective emotional turn occurs between Jack and another character introduced late in the feature. It comes as something of a surprise, and works remarkably well. As the hero begins to question life in the spotlight and the consequences of his earlier actions (and in some cases lack thereof), the additional character shares personal views on life, success, and what should be valued. In the end, this sequence feels like the true heart and soul of the movie and ends up being the most poignant and memorable sequence. It’s the little references and small emotional beats like the one previously mentioned, that ultimately make the movie a success. Like the songs themselves, the events in Yesterday are awfully familiar, yet they still manage to hook viewers and even tug on their heartstrings. V i s i t : w w w . CinemaStance.com COMMUNITY
‘Annabelle Comes Home’ but doesn’t bring many chills By Glenn Kay For the Sun
RATING: «« OUT OF «««« RUNNING TIME: 106 MINUTES
I
t has only been two months since the release of The Curse of La Llorona, the last film in The Conjuring universe. This time out, the makers turn to one of the series’ most iconic threats with Annabelle Comes Home. Yet while promising to deliver some familiar faces doing battle with the forces of evil, the movie actually focuses on elements that won’t be of nearly as much interest. Ever wanted to see a movie that focuses primarily on the babysitter of two renowned paranormal investigators? Didn’t think so. The film is set in the early ‘70s and follows Lorraine Warren (Vera Farmiga) and her husband Ed (Patrick Wilson) who collect Annabelle and lock her up in a special room in their home. For those unaware, the title character is a doll filled with a violent and inhuman spirit. Some time after putting Annabelle in the room, the couple heads out for the weekend, leaving their 10-year-old daughter Judy (Mckenna Grace)
alone with teenage babysitter Mary Ellen (Madison Iseman). W hen t he g ua rd ia n’s pa l Daniela (Katie Sarife) decides to break into the quarantined room to try to communicate with her deceased father, she inadvertently frees Annabelle and some other ghosts. T he g i rl s, a long w it h friendly teen neighbor Bob (Michael Cimino) are forced to endure the onslaught of supernatural events that follow. The good news is that the movie is well shot and features a few nice images amidst the general nonsense. Reflections of Annabelle in glass are used to good effect and when the more explicit attacks begin there are a couple of nice angles featured. One involves the camera tilting sideways as a character searches for the doll in the house, and the most impressive, captured from overhead, follows a youngster fleeing in terror through the hallways of the domicile. Additionally, the presence early on of Farmiga and Wilson does add some legitimacy to the proceedings. Unfortunately, they’re only present in the intro and final scene of the film, leaving the bulk of material focused on the kids. While the youngsters are likable, they are forced into doing dopey things for no reason other than to further the plot. Despite the obvious presence of evil, the kids
almost never seem interested in turning on any lights, or getting them to work after they fail. Their behavior and actions become increasingly silly. This doesn’t look like the biggest home in the universe, and many appearances of evil dolls and sinister spirits result in screams and wails from the separated leads, yet amazingly, they never seem to hear each other in duress. T r ut h f u l ly, t he g host s don’t do much for the first half except appear and disappear, rattle cabinets, and leave written queries for the children that don’t actually make much sense. Of course, Annabelle’s evil plan is to find a soul to possess (and let’s face it, anyone who has seen any of these movies knows that this is always the doll’s intention). Yet the eventual reveal only leaves one wondering why, if the malevolent spirit wanted a human body so badly, why would they announce it to potential victims? Or why not take the many opportunities presented to them much earlier, to take control of a human body, instead of just scaring them a dozen times first? Instead of clarifications, t h i n g s ge t i n c r e a s i n g l y absurd, as the kids try to fight off assaults throughout the night after aimlessly wandering around and investigating
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Annabelle, the evil doll in ‘Annabelle Comes Home,’ sits alone in a room waiting for the Warren family of demonologists to let her out to find a soul to possess. Photo Credit: Warner Brothers threatening noises. For any future screenwriters out there, it’s also probably not the wisest of ideas to have your characters say things like, “This is stupid,” more than once, for it eventually begins to put the same negative thoughts into the minds of viewers. It isn’t much better for the series to pit a 10-year-old and a trio of teens against what is stated as one of the most dangerous and horrifying forces of evil in the franchise’s universe. For if the children win, then it minimizes any sense of fear or danger that viewers will be contending with in the future.
In summary, the production values are fine, but there isn’t much else here that viewers won’t have seen delivered more effectively in other franchise installments. Yes, the movie is slightly more effective than the previous La Llorona film or The Nun, but Annabelle Comes Home is still something of a rehash that gets sillier and sillier as it progresses. In the end, the Warren’s wallpaper choices may actually be scarier than any ghost or demonic spirit featured in this particular tale. V i s i t : w w w . CinemaStance.com
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1981 NM-602, Gallup, NM 87301 Gallup Sun • Friday June 28, 2019
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DVD/Blu-ray Roundup for June 28, 2019 By Glenn Kay For the Sun
W
elcome back to another look at Blu-ray and DVD highlights arriving on shelves. Yes, it’s another jam-packed week with all kinds of interesting features in a variety of genres. So if you can’t make it out to the movies this week, be sure to give one of these titles a try!
BIG NEW RELEASES! T h e A f ter math T h i s p e r io d ef for t i s set in postwar G e r m a n y a n d fol low s the wife of a British colonel who is sent to Hamburg to join him as he oversees rebuilding efforts. After arriving, she’s surprised to learn from her husband that she will be sharing a home with its German owners, a local widower and his distressed daughter. The press didn’t take very kindly to this drama. Many critics described it as uneventful and corny. It stars Keira Knightley, Alexander Skarsgård, Jason Clarke and Alexander Scheer. Bittersweet Symphony - A musician is thrilled to finally finish a score for a big Hollywood motion picture, but finds her personal life coming apart in the process. She’s forced to deal with complications that include a dying mother a nd conf lict with her difficult ex-boyfriend. Apparently, this UK production is described as being partially scripted and often improvised, based on the issues facing the lead character. There aren’t any reviews available yet. The cast includes Suki Waterhouse, Jennifer Grey, Poppy Delevingne and Griffin Dunne. Call Us Ishmael - The Herman Melville novel MobyDick is the subject of this documentary. It was made by a university professor who did not appreciate the book as a youth, but came around to adoring it many years later after a second read. He travels around talking to literary majors, artists, philosophers a nd fa natics to get their
impressions of the work and the effect it has had on their lives. Additionally, the film features passages from the book and diaries from the author read out loud. This project was backed through Kickstarter and has had a nice run at film festivals, but the first opportunity for most of us to see it will be on disc. David Schaerf, Laurie Anderson and Frank Stella all share their thoughts. Furie Action enthusiasts may be interested i n t h i s fo r eign-language Vietnamese picture. It tells the story of a criminal outfit in the country involved in human trafficking who discover and kidnap a young girl. They soon realize they’ve made a huge mistake when they learn that the kid’s mother is an ex-gang leader who will do anything to wipe them out and get her child back. Notices for this picture were very strong. A couple of individuals described it as a rehash of Taken that merely swaps the protagonist’s gender, but the vast majority called the fights and chases stunning and had a great time watching the protagonist mow down the villains with reckless abandon. Veronica Ngo plays the lead, with Pham Anh Khoa and Thanh Nhien Phan in supporting roles. T h e Hummingbird Project - Two cou si n s a nd t ra d i ng bro kers from New York come up with an elaborate plan to connect fiber optic cables between Kansas and New Jersey, allowing the pair to take part in High Frequency Trading and making them and other locals millions in the process. However, their old boss sets her sights on their project, trying to stop its progress and steal the idea for herself. Reviews were mixed-positive for this techno-thriller. While a portion did criticize the premise as being a bit silly and less-than-exciting, slightly more liked the cast and called the movie eccentric and unique enough
26 Friday June 28, 2019 • Gallup Sun
to hold their interest. It stars Jesse Eisenberg, Alexander Skarsgård, Salma Hayek and Michael Mando. In This Gray Place - This little independent thriller involves a pawnshop hold up that goes very, very wrong. A man from the wrong side of the tracks attempts the heist with his girlfriend’s brother, but finds himself taking refuge in a rest stop bathroom. Barricaded in, the police arrive, leading to a lengthy stand-off. As tensions mount, the robber begins to have hallucinations and visions that threaten not only his own safety, but the well-being of those around him. The cast includes Aleksander Ristic, Marcus Johns, Angela Nordeng and Phil LaMarr. The Poison Rose - An ex-fo otba l l player turned private detective finds himself handed a m i s si ng persons case from a fetching lady in distress. However, as the lead investigates, what started as a simple job, soon unravels into a conspiracy involving the important local citizens and numerous murders. While this neo-noir thriller boasts a great cast, the press was not enthused by what they witnessed. They said that despite the best intentions of the able performers, the script was full of holes and noted that the movie did little to excite viewers. One reviewer even stated that the screenplay didn’t even explain the reason for the movie’s title. John Travolta, Morgan Freeman, Brendan Fraser, Famke Janssen, Peter Stormare and Robert Patrick headline the film. T r a n s it This drama from German d i r e c t o r Christian P e t z o l d (P h o e n i x) involves a man trying to get out of Nazi-occupied France. To do so, he takes on the identity of a deceased writer. Things get very complicated when the protagonist encounters the wife of the man whose identity he has stolen, and begins to fall for her. Based on a 1944 novel, this foreign-language effort earned
raves from film reviewers. A very small contingent were confused by the filmmaker setting the story in a more modern environment and thus couldn’t get on its wavelength. Everyone else called it an incredible accomplishment, filled with tension and despair, while noting that the tale itself still seemed to be very relevant in today’s world. It stars Franz Rogowski, Paula Beer and Godehard Giese.
BLASTS FROM THE PAST! Hold on, because this edition is jam-packed with new releases of classic titles. Olive Films has a couple of interesting ones. The first Blu-ray is for The Believers (1987), a thriller from director John Schlesinger (Midnight Cowboy, Marathon Man) starring Martin Sheen about a widowed police psychologist dealing with being a single parent and a disturbing case involving a cult that is sacrificing children. If memory serves, it is a decent horror/thriller that genre fans may appreciate. The period drama The Illusionist (2006) kind of got lost in the shu f f le a f ter being released around the same time as Christopher Nolan’s The Prestige. But it’s is a well-regarded title that has gained plenty of fans over the years (not to mention an Academy Award nomination for Best Cinematography). It features Ed Norton as a magician and Paul Giamatti as a cop investigating his strange techniques. The Blu-ray disc includes a director commentary, making of featurettes and a trailer. Shout! Factory has a lot to promote this week. First, they have a Blu-ray of the Dom DeLuise comedy, Fatso (1980). This tale of a put-upon man who tries a series of crash diets arrives with an interview with producers Stuart Cornfeld and Mel Brooks, a film historian interview and publicity materials. On the horror front, they are releasing a Collector’s Edition Blu-ray of The Green Inferno (2013). This cannibalism tale about a group of students who
are attacked in the South American rainforest comes with a CD copy of the original score, a new interview with writer/producer/director Eli Roth (Cabin Fever, Hostel), a talk with various members of the cast, nearly an hour of behind-the-scenes footage, a director/producer/ cast commentary, featurettes, and all kinds of publicity materials. My personal favorite from Shout! this week is a Blu-ray Collector’s Edition of the extremely entertaining zombie flick, Night of the Creeps (1986). This title is about a university overrun by alien slugs who enter victims both living and dead, and end up controlling them like zombies. It’s a hoot with a lot of creativity on display and plenty of laughs in between the jolts. Two discs are included. Kino has several fascinating Blu-rays as well. Their American Film Theatre line is putting out Galileo (1975), a biopic of the 17th century physicist. The disc includes an interview with star Topol, as well as a discussion Edie Landau. There is also a promotional film for the American Film Theatre titled Ely Landau: In Front of the Camera, and a gallery of trailers for the this line’s features. David Lynch fans (like myself) will be happy to know that they can finally pick up Lost Highway (1997) on Bluray. This one follows a jealous man who begins to receive strange messages from an odd figure, as well as threatening videos. Strange things occur and he transforms and escapes into the body of a young mechanic, only to eventually see the same sorts of problems arise. What isn’t so great is that director Lynch is having some kind of disagreement with Kino over the title. T he f il m ma ker ha s announced that he doesn’t approve of the transfer, and
DVD REVIEW | SEE PAGE 27 COMMUNITY
Waste of natural gas on federal land hurts taxpayers, schools By Sharon Kayne New Mexico Voices for Children
N
ew Mexico Voices for Children Executive Di rector Ja mes Jimenez issued the following statement regarding the June 25 release of the report “New Mexico’s Boom that Cost Billions: How Federal Oil and Gas Policies Fail Taxpayers” by Taxpayers for Common Sense: “While New Mexico is used to being at the bottom of the nation in many indicators, here’s one where we’re at the top: we’ve had the most natural gas wasted from oil and gas production on federal land. This report shows that 87 billion cubic feet of natural gas was wasted in New Mexico between 2008 and 2017. This senseless waste of resources, coupled with outdated rental rates and below-market royalty rates, have left taxpayers
holding the bag. The waste of gas through venting and flaring cheats New Mexico children out of millions of dollars of lost revenue and allows needless emissions of methane, a significant contributor to health problems and climate change. The oil and natural gas industries are important to New Mexico and the revenue they raise helps support our schools. Increasing the royalty rate on federal lands to match the current rate New Mexico charges on state lands would have generated $2.5 billion in revenue improving everyone’s bottom line. Increasing the rates going forward is just plain common sense. With the recent judgment in the education lawsuit, New Mexico is going to need to invest significantly more money into our classrooms to ensure that students have the resources they need. There is
YOU KNOW, FOR KIDS!
DVD REVIEW | FROM PAGE 26 Kino has suggested that they’ve been forced into making some changes to the release due to the friction between the groups. It’s all too bad, since Kino is generally a very reputable distributor. Let’s hope everything gets cleared up in the near future. This is a great movie, so those interested in purchasing it may want to read some reviews when it comes out and then make their final decision; currently, this is the only way to get the movie in high-definition in North America, so there aren’t many options otherwise.
Here are some releases that may be of interest to kids. Cinderella (1950) Disney Wally Gator: The Complete Series (Warner Archives) The Wonderful World of Oz: The Complete Series (‘80s animated show - Original Japanese with English Subtitles)
ON THE TUBE! And here are the week’s TV-themed titles. Agatha Christie’s Criminal Games: Season 2 Agatha Christie’s Criminal
Sharon Kayne, Communications Director, New Mexico Voices for Children
From left: Aliyah Sanchez, 8; Jewel Sanchez, 7; Duviana Sanchez, 11 stand with their wild animals as part of the 2019 Relay for Life event at the McKinley County Courthouse Square. The theme of the event is ‘Going Wild for a Cure.’ Photo Credit: Eileen D’Orazio
no reason to allow this waste to continue.” The repor t is available online at: http://bit.ly/2WYBXTt For more information, contact: Sharon Kayne, Communications Director, NM Voices for Children 505-361-1288 (direct), 505-401-8709 (c), skayne@ nmvoices.org OR: Marie-Pier Frigon, Communications Assi stant, mfrigon@ nmvoices.org Games: Season 3 Christmas in Evergreen: Letters to Santa (Hallmark TV-movie) Divorced Dad: Season 1 Francis Drake Mysteries: Season 2 (PBS) F RONT LINE: Marcos Doesn’t Live Here Anymore (PBS) Manhunt: Season 1 Marcella: Season 2 Pol d ark: The Compete Collection (70s series) Survivor: Pearl Island: Season 7 The Wonderful World of Oz: The Complete Series (‘80s animated show - Original Japanese with English Subtitles)
This giraffe jeep is part of the Ups and Downs Giraffe Team fundraising for Relay for Life 2019. The Giraffe Team is sticking their necks out to find a cure for cancer. Photo Credit: Eileen D’Orazio
noun
AM-BI-TION Believing in you.
GALLUP 107 E. Aztec Ave., 505.722.4411 Walmart: 1650 W. Maloney Ave., 505.863.3442 1804 E. Aztec Ave., 505.722.0300
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COMMUNITY
4/5/18 10:47 AM
Gallup Sun • Friday June 28, 2019
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SPORTS 360
Kevin Johnny and Rehoboth Christian High School Baseball Coach Anthony Sanchez June 21 at Gallup High School as Johnny signs his letter of intent to play baseball for Kentucky Christian University in Grayson, Ky. Photo Credit: Ryan Hudgeons
Kennedy Chapman, 18 signs a letter of intent on June 24 at Rehoboth Christian High School to play volleyball at Trinidad State Junior College in Trinidad, Colo. While her mother Char, to her left and her brother Kodah, 11 look on. She will arrive in Trinidad August 3. Photo Credit: RCHS Athletic Diector Adrian Pete
Miyamura High School Head Baseball Coach Dustin Vidal, Jason Cordova, and Assistant Coach Ryan Menapace at Cordova’s signing June 12 at Miyamura High School. Cordova committed to play baseball for Otero Junior College in La Junta, Colo. Photo Credit: Ryan Hudgeons
28 Friday June 28, 2019 • Gallup Sun
Seth Manuelito and Raymond Burrola (both of Gallup High School), and Kevin Johnny (Rehoboth High School) signed their sports commitment letters June 21 at Gallup High School. All three will play baseball for Kentucky Christian University in Grayson, Ky. Photo Credit: Ryan Hudgeons SPORTS
GALLUP SUN ARCHIVES Need a past issue? $2.00 per copy. Note issue date and send check or M.O. to: Gallup Sun, PO Box 1212, Gallup, NM 87305. Subject to availability. HELP WANTED Part-Time Office Manager For Storage Facility Approx. 25-30 Hours per week. Call 575-527-5668 for more Information *** Interested in Expd. Cook Apply in person @ Jerry’s Cafe 406 W. Coal No Phone Calls *** PHOTOGRAPHER/VIDEOGRAPHER The Gallup Sun is looking for a regular professional freelance photographer and videographer to shoot local events. Must know how to write captions for photos, or possess a willingness to learn. Flexible hours. Some weekends and evenings required. Come have fun with us! Email CV/resume: gallupsun@gmail.com
Volunteers Wanted Four Corners Pet Alliance is in desperate need of foster homes for dogs and cats. You provide the temporary home and love, and we provide the supplies and vet care. For info., email: babsie220@gmail. com
June 21, 2019 June 28, 2019
Did you lose a pet? Advertise your lost baby for FREE. Send pic and text. Deadline for submission Tuesday 5 pm. Email: gallupsun@gmail.com
ONEMAIN FINANCIAL GROUP, LLC, as Servicer for Wilmington Trust, N.A., as Issuer Loan Trustee for OneMain Financial Issuance Trust 2017-1,
LEGAL/PUBLIC NOTICES P.T.D. ORDER NO. 19-07 June 3, 2019 ORDER EXTENDING CERTAIN DEADLINES PROPERTY TAX DIVISIONS STATE ASSESSED PROPERTIES BUREAU STATE OF NEW MEXICO Pursuant to my authority under Section 7-38-85 NMSA 1978, I hereby extend the following deadline found in Section 7-38-20 of the Property Tax Code with respect to the 2019-tax year old:
***
1) The deadline to allocate and certify valuations to county assessors is extended from June 3, 2019 to June 14, 2019
REPORTER The Gallup Sun has an immediate opening for a reporter. Email CV/resume w/five clips to: gallupsun@gmail. com
2) Therefore, County Assessor’s deadline to allocate and certify valuations to the Property Tax Division is extended from June 15, 2019 to June 28, 2019.
HOMES FOR RENT 116 Princeton Ave. 3 bedroom & 1 bathroom For more information call 505-595-4047 *** Mobile Home Spaces for rent. Call Bill Nations at Black Diamond Mobile Home Park (505)726-9288 HOMES FOR SALE PLACE YOUR REAL ESTATE AD HERE! FIRST 25 WORDS FREE. LOGO and/or PHOTO $5 EACH. APPEARS ON GALLUPSUN.COM FOR FREE! EMAIL: gallupsunlegals@ gmail.com CALL: (505) 722-8994 PETS CLASSIFIEDS
Done this 3rd day of June 2019. Donna Maestas, Director Property Tax Division Published: June 14, 2019
*** STATE OF NEW MEXICO COUNTY OF MCKINLEY ELEVENTH JUDICIAL DISTRICT COURT
Plaintiff, V. Cause No.: D-1113CV-2018-00442 CHARLYNN M. BEGAY AND MITCHEL M. BEGAY, Defendants, NOTICE OF SUIT NOTICE OF SUIT to the above-named defendants, CHARLYNN M. BEGAY AND MITCHELL M. BEGAY, GREETINGS: You are hereby notified that the above-named Plaintiff, ONEMAIN FINANCIAL GROUP, LLC, by its undersigned attorney, has filed a civil action against you in the above-entitled Court and case, the general object thereof being Complaint for Money Owed. That unless you file an answer or response to the Complaint in said case, on or before 30 days from the last date of publication, a judgement by default will be entered against you. Name and address and telephone number of Plaintiff’s attorney: Katherine A. Howington, Esquivel & Howington, LLC. 111 Lomas Blvd. NW, Suite 203, Albuquerque, NM 87102; (505) 933-6880. Published:
Job Vacancy Announcement Maintenance Technician Gallup Housing Authority Person will perform a variety of maintenance and repair functions to housing units such as: painting; tape and texture walls; repair or replace sinks, toilet bowls, showers or tubs and fixtures, doors, screen doors, windows, electrical lights, water heaters and appliances and grounds maintenance. Person must be able to read, write and complete required reports. Person will have to perform heavy lifting; loading and unloading of service vehicle. Job involves climbing, crawling, bending and reaching. Must have current Driver’s license. Must pass background check if job offer is made. Medical physical may be required after job offer is made. Applications may be picked up at the Main office of the Gallup Housing Authority located at 203 Debra Drive in Gallup, NM 87301; or requested by email at: GHA.main@galluphousing.com. Applicants may apply in person or submit by email. Deadline: 5:00 pm July 8, 2019. Incomplete applications will not be considered.
CLASSIFIEDS June 28, 2019 July 5, 2019 July 12, 2019
By: /S/ Charles Long, President Board of Education Gallup-McKinley County School District No. 1
*** ADVERTISEMENT FOR BIDS NOTICE TO BIDDERS Public notice is hereby given that the Gallup-McKinley County Schools, Gallup New Mexico, desires to purchase the following: BAND INSTRUMENTS ITB-379-20MA Commodity Code(s): 58010, & 58080
58003,
Details and specifications are set forth in the bid documents, copies of which may be obtained from the GMCS Procurement Office 640 South Boardman, Gallup, New Mexico 87301 (bid opening site) or download from the GMCS Website at www.gmcs.k12. nm.us Sealed bids for such will be received at the Procurement Office until 2:00 PM (LOCAL TIME) on July 9, 2019. Bid will be opened and read allowed in the Business Services Conference Room 123. Envelopes are to be sealed and plainly marked ITB-379-20MA. No FAXED BIDS or ELECTRONIC bid submissions nor bids submitted after the specified date and time will be considered and will be returned. The Board of Education reserves the right to accept or reject any or all bids and to waive any formalities on minor inconsistencies. Dated the 27th Day of June 2019
BID ISSUE DATE: June 27, 2019 PUBLICATION DATE: June 28, 2019 (Gallup Sun) *** PUBLIC NOTICE PUBLIC NOTICE is hereby given that McKinley Soil & Water Conservation District will receive competitive sealed bids for IFB #2019-01MSWCD Work Truck until Tues, July 9 at 5:00PM local time, at which time bids will be opened & publicly read aloud at USDA Service Center. Work Truck: Crew cab, diesel, dual rear wheels, gooseneck/5th wheel, flatbed with cattle guard and as more particularly set out in the specifications, copies for such may be obtained from McKinley SWCD, USDA Service Center- Gallup Field Office, 2330 E Hwy 66, St. B Gallup, NM, 87301. McKinley SWCD reserves the right to accept or reject any or all bids and to waive informalities. For more information please contact Betsy Branson at 505-7785936. The Procurement Code, Sections 13-1-28 Through 131-199, NMSA, 1978 imposes civil and criminal penalties for code violations. In addition, the New Mexico criminal statutes impose felony/penalties for illegal bribes, gratuities and kickbacks. Dated the 26th Day of June 2019
CLASSIFIEDS | SEE PAGE 30
Place an tribute in the Gallup Sun It will last the whole week and forever on GallupSun.com Easy form to fill out. Short form FREE! Artistic, customized tributes available. Phone: (505) 722-8994
Email: gallupsun@gmail.com
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Gallup Housing Authority is an Equal Opportunity Employer.
Gallup Sun • Friday June 28, 2019
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CLASSIFIEDS | FROM PAGE 29
the day of sale only. CASH ONLY. Call office for more info. 505-863-5343
By: Betsy Branson, Procurement Officer/District Clerk, McKinley SWCD Publication Date: June 28, 2019
Publication Date: June 28, 2019 July 5, 2019
*** NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN, pursuant to the Self-Service Storage Lien Act of the State of New Mexico, Section 48-11-7, that the following personal property will be sold or disposed of in order to satisfy a lien for delinquent rent and/or other related charges. The personal property is located at Aztec Self Storage, 261 N. Hwy 491 Gallup, New Mexico 87301. Last Known Address of Tenant: Fanny Bahe P.O. Box 3 St. Michaels, AZ 86511 Misc. Items Jonavin Begay P.O. Box 1722 Tohatchi, NM 87325 Mattress, dryer, Misc Items Polly Piaso P.O. Box 1685 Zuni, NM 87327 Love seat, boxes, Misc. Items Alice Jimenez HCR 57 Box 9170 Manuelito, NM 87319 Electric heater, Misc. Items Alice Jimenez HCR 57 Box 9170 Manuelito, NM 87319 Sewing machine, couch, dresser, speakers, air conditioner Francine Catron P.O. Box 118 Chinle, AZ 86503 Tools, boxes, Misc. Items Mary Chapela 211 Cannon Road SW Albuquerque, NM 87105 Dining chairs, sofa, dressers, love seat, table, boxes The sale or disposition of the above property is TBD. Items may be viewed on
*** LEGAL NOTICE NOTICE OF ORDINANCE PASSAGE BY TITLE AND SUMMARY ORDINANCE NO. C2019-6 PUBLIC NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that the governing body of the City of Gallup, New Mexico, at its regular meeting of June 25, 2019 passed, adopted and approved the following entitled Ordinance: AN ORDINANCE AMENDING THE SPECIAL EVENTS ORDINANCE TO REMOVE TWO REFERENCES TO SECTION 7-1-1 OF THE GALLUP MUNICIPAL CODE WHICH HAS BEEN AMENDED AND NO LONGER DEALS WITH STREET OBSTRUCTIONS The purpose and subject matter of the Ordinance is contained in the title. A complete copy of the Ordinance is on file in the Office of the City Clerk, City Hall.
West Aztec Avenue. ITEM ONE: Out-of-State travel request for one Animal Control Officer in September 2019 ITEM TWO: Out-of-State travel request for two Animal Control Officers in December 2019 ITEM THREE: Quarterly Financial Report ITEM FOUR: FY 2020 Final Approved Budget Auxiliary aides for the disabled are available upon request. Please contact C.B. Strain at (505) 863-1244, at least one (1) week prior to the meeting or as soon as possible in advance of the meeting to make any necessary arrangements. All interested parties are invited to attend. City of Gallup, McKinley County, New Mexico By: /S/ Alfred Abeita, City Clerk
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LEGAL NOTICE PUBLIC NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that the Gallup-McKinley County Animal Control Authority will consider the following action at its Regular Meeting to be held on Tuesday, July 9th, 2019. The Meeting will be held at 1:00 p.m. in the Council Chambers of City Hall, 110 West Aztec Avenue, located on the corner of South Second Street and
WEEKLY RATES
PUBLISH: 28 June 2019
CITY OF GALLUP, NEW MEXICO By: /s/ Alfred Abeita II, City Clerk PUBLISH: Friday, June 28, 2019
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30 Friday June 28, 2019 • Gallup Sun
CLASSIFIEDS
COMMUNITY CALENDAR JUNE 28-JULY 4, 2019 FRIDAY, June 28
GET UP AND GAME
12 pm-4 pm @ Children’s Branch, 200 W. Aztec Ave. Drop in anytime! Unwind from a busy week with video games and fun for the whole family.
SUMMER NIGHTLY INDIAN DANCES
7 pm-8 pm nightly through September 2 @ The Courthouse Square on Aztec between Second and Third Streets. .Admission is free. For more information call (505) 722-2228.
NO HOST BOOK CLUB
6:30 pm @ Westminster Presbyterian Church. Read the monthly themed books, then join others for a lively discussion on the last Friday of the month. For more information contact Kathy Mezoff (505) 870-6136. The book for June is Educated by Tara Westover.
NAVAJO NATION PRIDE
Two day celebration includes a Diné LGBTQ+ Symposium, Welcome Reception with Queer Showcase, 5K Color Run, Pride Festival at the Window Rock Veterans Memorial Park and an After-Party in Gallup, New Mexico. Supporters interested in volunteering or learning more about Diné Pride can visit us: NavajoNationPride.com. SATURDAY, June 29
STORY TIME
11:00 am-11:30 am @ Children’s Branch. An active and energetic program for toddlers, featuring music, movement, rhymes, and stories. This program is intended for children ages two to four.
THE GREY AREA
10 am- 12:30 pm @ SSTC 200 at UNM-Gallup for Mandatory Student Training.
NAVAJO NATION PRIDE
Second day of two-day celebration includes a Diné LGBTQ+ Symposium, Welcome Reception with Queer Showcase, 5K Color Run, Pride Festival at the Window Rock Veterans Memorial Park and an After-Party in Gallup, New Mexico. Supporters interested in volunteering or learning more about Diné Pride can visit us: NavajoNationPride.com.
LA MOSCA BICICLETA 2019: ROAD+DIRECT = FUN!
7 am. Start for both rides begin at Junkyard Brewery, 1634 Rte. 66, Grants. Facebook event page: www.facebook. com/events/387878612050890/
EL MALPAIS NATIONAL MONUMENT: JUNE STAR PARTY
9 pm @ El Morrow Visitor CALENDAR
Center. Ranger program followed by a constellation tour and telescope viewing. For more information, call: (505) 783-4226 ext. 801. SUNDAY, June 30
PRIDE MONTH
10:30 am @ Westminster Presbyterian Church-Gallup. All are invited to celebrate transgender people and hear a story of transition, integrity and faithfulness.
24TH ANNUAL CROWNPOINT JUST MOVE IT FAMILY FUN RUN & WALK
8:30 am Registration time 9 am; Start time. 8 am; @ Laguna Pueblo, K’awaika Center. For more information call (505) 786-6321 or (505) 786-6240. MONDAY, July 1
CITY OF GALLUP’S SUSTAINABLE GALLUP BOARD
3:30 pm-5 pm @ the Octavia Fellin Library. Community members concerned about environmental issues are welcome. Call (505) 722-0039 for information. TUESDAY, July 2
CHESS CLUB
4 pm-5 pm @ Children’s Branch. Learn chess moves and strategy. Meet others who love the game. Refreshments provided. WEDNESDAY, July 3
STORY TIME
10:30 am-11 am @ Children’s Branch. An active and energetic program for toddlers, featuring music, movement, rhymes, and stories. This program is intended for children ages two - four years old.
WEDNESDAY NIGHT FILMS
5:30 pm- 7:30 pm @ Main Branch 115 W. Hill Ave. Films play every Wednesday at 5:30 pm in the Main Library. This week’s film: Glory. THURSDAY, July 4
FOURTH OF JULY EXTRAVAGANZA
9 am Parade @ Fire & Ice Park. Fireworks @ Coyote del Malpais Golf Course. Events are free. For more information call (505) 287- 4802.
SKY CITY CASINO: SKY WORKS
9 pm @ Sky City Casino Hotel. Fireworks display by Wolverine Fireworks. The event is free.
CRAFTY KIDS (ALL AGES)
4 pm-5 pm @ Children’s Branch: Fun crafts for the whole family. This week’s activity: TBD.
INDEPENDENCE DAY
City offices closed.
INDEPENDENCE DAY
UNM-Gallup campus closed.
INDEPENDENCE DAY
CALENDAR
Gallup McKinley County Schools closed. ONGOING
CROWNPOINT NAVAJO RUG AUCTION
7 pm-10 pm @ New Crownpoint Elementary School gymnasium. For more information, call (505) 879-9460. Second Friday of the month.
SUMMER NIGHTLY INDIAN DANCES
7 pm-8 pm nightly through September 2 @ The Courthouse Square on Aztec between Second and Third Streets. .Admission is free. For more information call (505) 722-2228.
ROCKIN J REAWAKENINGS DOG TRAINING
2 pm every Friday and 9:30 am every Saturday dog training needs and assistance. The center’s professional trainer helper will be out June 15th and 16th at 9:30 am both days. Reawakenings Veterans Center & Ranch (2 miles North on County Rd 19, Prewitt, NM).
ROCKIN J REAWAKENINGS HORSE DEMO
11 am every Saturday. Reawakenings Veterans Center & Ranch (2 miles North on County Rd 19, Prewitt, NM). For more information email reawakeningsinc@gmail.com.
ROCKIN J REAWAKENINGS BASIC SELF-DEFENSE CLASS
1pm free for anyone. Reawakenings Veterans Center & Ranch (2 miles North on County Rd 19, Prewitt, NM). For more information email reawakeningsinc@gmail.com.
ROCKIN J REAWAKENINGS WELCOME CENTER
10 am-2 pm Tuesday through Saturday. Reawakenings Veterans Center & Ranch (2 miles North on County Rd 19, Prewitt, NM). For more information email reawakeningsinc@gmail.com.
RECYCLING COUNCIL
2 pm first Saturday of the month @ Red Mesa on Hill Street. McKinley Citizens Recycling Council is a local nonprofit working to increase recycling through education, community outreach, and partnership with local government agencies. For more information, call (505) 722-5142 or visit www.recyclegallup.org.
RECYCLING DEPOT
12 pm-1:30 pm first Saturday of the month. The Recycling Depot volunteers will accept some items, such as paper towels and toilet paper rolls. This is a free service of the McKinley Citizens’ Recycling Council. Call (505) 722-5152.
MCKINLEY CITIZENS’ RECYCLING COUNCIL MONTHLY MEETING
2 pm @ the Red Mesa Cen-
ter, 105 W. Hill. The council meets the first Saturday of the month. The public is invited to learn about recycling opportunities, receive updates on Gallup residential curbside recycling, and to volunteer. For information call Gerald or Millie at (505) 722-5142 or email betsywindisch@yahoo. com
FREE HIV RAPID TESTING
9:30 am-4:30 pm Monday Thursday @ First Nations Community HealthSource, 1630 S. Second Street, Cedar Hills Plaza 262-#11. For more information, or to schedule an appointment, call (505) 863-8827.
OVEREATERS ANONYMOUS
10 am every Saturday @ the First Methodist Church, 1800 Redrock Drive. Overeaters Anonymous 12-step meetings. Contact info. (505) 307-5999, (505) 721-9208, or (505) 8701483.
ALCOHOLICS ANONYMOUS
5:45 pm Mondays @ Fellowship Hall WR Christian Center across from N.N. Fairgrounds/ Wellness Center, Hwy 264. Window Rock AA Group. Visit aa-fc.org for more info.
CELEBRATE RECOVERY
6 pm-8 pm Tuesdays @ 1375 Elva Dr. A Christ-centered recovery program that will help you heal from the pain of your unmanaged hurts, habits and hang-ups. Joshua Generation for Jesus. For information, call (505) 870-2175.
CO-DEPENDENTS ANONYMOUS
6 pm - 7 pm Wednesdays, @ First United Methodist Church, 1800 Redrock Dr. (in the library). All are welcome.
COMMUNITY PANTRY
10 am-4 pm, Tuesday through Friday @ 1130 E. Hassler Valley Road. The Hope Garden offers organic produce for sale. All funds go to helping feed local folks. Call (505) 726-8068 or when visiting, ask for Vernon Garcia.
FRIDAY NIGHT HOOTENANNY
7 pm-9 pm Friday @ Camille’s Sidewalk Cafe, 306 S. Second St. Gallup’s longest-running live show!
GALLUP-MCKINLEY COUNTY HUMANE SOCIETY
Wednesdays are low-cost Spay and Neuter Days, at the Gallup-McKinley County Humane Society. For more information, please call (505) 863-2616, or email: gmchumanesociety@gmail.com. Location: 1315 Hamilton Road.
GALLUP SOLAR
6 pm-8 pm Wednesdays @ 113 E. Logan. Gallup Solar is hosting community classes and presentations about all things solar. Call (505) 728-9246 for info.
HABITAT FOR HUMANITY YARD SALE
9 am-12 pm. on Warehouse Lane. Habitat for Humanity fundraising yard sales are held every Sat. Volunteers for various kinds of community services needed. For info call (505) 722-4226
RECOVERING ADDICTS FOR JESUS
6 pm Thursday @ 309 Chino Loop, Gamerco. New Life ministries holds weekly meetings for anyone who is on the Recovering path from alcohol and drug abuse. Phone: (505) 722-8973. SAVE THE DATE
SQUARE OFF!
7 pm-9 pm @ ART123 Gallery. July 13 through August 3. Work collaboratively to recreate masterpieces that are larger than life. Find out what you worked on at the end of the process.
2ND LOOK ON 2ND STREET
6 pm-8 pm @ Gallup’s Gallery Row--Free Spirit, opo, ART123 and LOOM Indigenous galleries on Tuesday, July 23. See shows. Hear artists speak. Check out an artist demo at Camille’s.
WINE & PAINTING
6 pm-9 pm @ ART123 Gallery. Have a creative night out! July 25 with Dana Aldis. Paint a masterpiece step-by-step while enjoying two complimentary glasses of wine. Register at www. galluparts. org/wine-and-painting. $35 per person
KIWANIS NIGHT GOLF EVENT
6:30 pm-8 pm @Fox Run Golf Course. The night golf event on Saturday, July 27 will be a 9 hole, 4-player scramble. Fees per player will be $75. To register, email John at jltaylor873012@gmail.com or call Fox Run Golf Course at (505) 863-9224.
ANCIENT WAY MUSIC FESTIVAL
4 pm – 8 pm Saturday, August 3 at the Old School Gallery outdoor stage. For more information contact: Old School Gallery: (505) 369-4047; www. oldschoolgallery.org
TAIZÉ CANDLELIGHT SERVICE
4 pm @ Westminster Presbyterian Church. Sunday, August 11. For more information call Kathy Mezoff: (505) 870-6136. To post a nonprofit or civic event in the calendar section, please email: gallupsunevents@gmail.com or fax: (505) 212-0391. Deadline: Monday at 5 pm.
Gallup Sun • Friday June 28, 2019
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32 Friday June 28, 2019 • Gallup Sun