Gallup Sun • June 26, 2020

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VOL 6 | ISSUE 273 | JUNE 26, 2020

BRINGINGJuneteenth ART weekend TO ACTIVISM By Beth Blakeman Associate Editor

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erry Brown never colored inside the lines. When his grandmother gave him a coloring book at the age of three, she set him on a path that he says looks like his artwork today. Brown has had a variegated 49 years since his birth in Crownpoint. He spent third to eighth grade in a boarding school in

Crownpoint, where sports, not art, was the subject of significance. He skipped ninth grade and then spent five or six months as an exchange student with the LDS church in West Jordan, Utah. After that he tried several public schools including Wingate and Thoreau High School, but nothing felt like a fit until he spotted Sister Michelle at what is now St. Bonaventure School.

She was wearing a habit and carrying a guitar when she literally crossed his path. He talked with her and concluded that this was where he belonged. He attended tenth and eleventh grades at the school and stayed with the missionaries there until the end of twelfth grade. W h i le t here he met a Ger m a n a r t i st , Cla rence Giese, from Vermont. Giese did abstracts. Giese became a mentor to the young Navajo man.

He took Brow n to the Institute of American Indian Arts in Santa Fe. “I liked how he approached stuff and how he looked at it,” Brown said. And [I liked] how he used mediums.” Giese, whose work was influenced by rocks, bones, and nature forms, died in 2018. He produced oil on canvas and spent 21 years teaching in Vienna, Austria before moving to the U. S., studying at the Art Institute of Chicago

and spending 18 years in New Mexico. In describing Giese’s work and his landscapes, Brown characterized them as being primarily about the Holocaust. Brown said the trip to IAIA with Giese led him to apply at the institute. He began classes there in August 1991 and finished the two-year program, following it up with another two years.

JERRY BROWN | SEE PAGE 18

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Friday June 26, 2020 • Gallup Sun

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LOCAL NEWS

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Tohatchi students recognized by N.M. MESA TEAM BEAT OUT COLLEGE STUDENTS IN DESIGN COMPETITION By Cody Begaye Sun Correspondent

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our Tohatchi High School seniors were recognized by the Ga llup -McK i n ley County Board of Education during their June 22 meeting. The students, Matthew Manuelito, Chad Kee, Tahira Mason and Cypress Mike, placed fi rst in the New Mexico Tech Wolves Den competition in April. The competition was part of the New Mexico MESA USA Showcase at New Mexico Tech’s campus in Socorro, N.M. New Mexico MESA is a pre-college program that prepares students for college and careers in science, engineering, mathematics, or technology related fields. Shawndeana Smith, coordinator for N.M. MESA, spoke at the meeting for the students.

“When the COVID-19 pandemic hit us, it impacted a lot of our students,” Smith said. “It was a big challenge to get our students the necessary activities they can do at home.” De spit e t he ch a l lenge brought on by the pandemic, Smith said the four students being recognized by the board wanted to present an idea for a project that could benefit their communities. For the competition, students were tasked with implementing a Human-Centered Design approach to find a client in their community who had a need, engineer a solution for this need using Arduino as the key component, and present their solution. Arduino is an open-source h a r d w a r e a n d s of t w a r e company that designs and manufactures single-board microcontrollers and

From left: Tohatchi High School Students Tahira Mason, Matthew Manuelito, and Chad Kee placed first in the New Mexico Tech Wolves Den competition in April. They were the only high school team to compete against college teams to design a STEM-related project that could benefit their communities. Not Pictured, Cypress Mike. Photo Credit: Courtesy microcontroller kits for building digital devices. The four students in the competition came up with an

idea for a prototype cell phone signal booster built using materials they had at home. The name for their project is

“At Home Cell Phone Tower: The Key to Better Emergency Communication in Tohatchi, New Mexico.” Smith said the students designed their project with help they got from their teachers and mentors they had met through N.M. MESA and N.M. Tech. “New Mexico Tech then offered a spot for the students to compete in the Wolves Den competition, and they won against college students,” Smith said. Three students were present at the meeting to receive plaques for their efforts. Each student wore a mask and adhered to the six-feet apart guideline. “We really want to showcase these individuals and wonderful students, and highlight them for the future,” Smith said.

City Council moves to cancel 2020 Best of the Best Rodeo By Cody Begaye Sun Correspondent

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oming off the heels of WildThing Championship Bullriding being canceled, another big summer gathering in Gallup has been taken off the schedule. During their April 28 meeting, the Gallup City Council motioned to cancel the 2020 Best of the Best Rodeo for its original June date with a potential reschedule planned for August following the conclusion of the Inter-Tribal Indian Ceremonial. However, Jennifer Lazarz, tourism and marketing manager for the City of Gallup, said at the council’s June 23

meeting, the circumstances impacting the rodeo’s potential new date have escalated in the past two months. As a result, the city recommended canceling the event entirely for the calendar year. First, the Governor’s Public Health Order has not lifted the limitations on mass gatherings of more than five people. “While future restrictions may change, given the closed nature of the event, it’s not like we are going to be able to accommodate large numbers [of people],” Lazarz said. After a motion made during the council’s June 9 meeting, Red Rock Park no longer has the capacity to host large events. A ll seasonal staff workers were removed after

Jennifer Lazarz,Gallup tourism and marketing manager. File Photo the budget was cut, and the remaining three employees at the park are not able to perform the volume of work needed for the rodeo. “Historically, it has taken between 18 to 30 individuals to run an event of this size

Timed event at past Best of the Best Rodeo. Photo Credit: gallupnm.gov because we have the park personnel working, and staff from Parks and Recreation, the seasonal staff, and staff from other departments that help

within the park,” Lazarz said. If the rodeo were to proceed

RODEO CANCELED | SEE PAGE 20

WHAT’S INSIDE …

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RESTAURANT CLOSURE The pandemic claims the Wow Diner

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MISSING PERSON Gallup Police asking for your help

Friday June 26, 2020 • Gallup Sun

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SPECIAL SESSION The bills, topics that were discussed

PROTECTING WATER The 2020 Rule threatens N.M. waterways

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MOVIE REVIEW Does ‘Irresistible’ live up to its name?

NEWS

NEWS

Gallup Sun • Friday June 26, 2020

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Pandemic claims a Milan restaurant By Dominic Aragon Sun Correspondent

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ILAN, N.M. — The b e s t p a n - f r ie d trout and mixed berry pie in all of Cibola County are now history thanks to COVID-19. The Wow Diner in Milan officially shut its doors on June 14, ending a 14-year run for the restaurant.

Gallup Sun Publishing, LLC Publisher/Editor Babette Herrmann Office Manager Raenona Harvey Accounts Representative Sherry Kauzlarich Associate Editor Beth Blakeman Photography Knifewing Segura Ana Hudgeons Ryan Hudgeons Cable Hoover Correspondent/Editorial Asst. Cody Begaye Dominic Aragon On the Cover View of the Juneteenth mural from the sky. Photo by R. Emerson 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.

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“COVID-19 hurt us, when we had to start doing takeout. And then, just keeping employees. A lot of them did not want to come back to work, and a lot of them did not show up,” owner Stephanie Rivard said. “It was really hard to try and stay open.” The retro-style diner temporarily closed on March 18 after Gov. Michelle Lujan-Grisham announced dine-in services for restaurants were suspended, but reopened April 7 for carry-out orders. Early in June, Rivard said she knew Wow would not be open much longer. Pre COVID-19, the diner employed 32 workers. During the pandemic, six workers kept the operation going. “We had to close a few days [after reopening] because we didn’t have any employees, and I didn’t want to do business that way,” Rivard said.

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Friday June 26, 2020 • Gallup Sun

The Wow Diner in Milan, N.M. closed in March due to the pandemic. In its heyday it served Raspberry Chipotle Chicken and Chocolate Cream pie. Photo Credit: Dominic Aragon From the diner’s opening in May 2006, Rivard estimates 125 people worked at the restaurant over the years. Rivard said she will miss the customers, employees, and her favorite pan-fried trout entree from the restaurant’s menu. “We’ve formed so many great friendships and so many nice relationships, employee

relationships, plus our business relationships,” she said. As for starting another restau ra nt i n the futu re, “Things change, but as of right now, I do not anticipate that happening,” she said. Rivard, who is no stranger to working 11-hour days, credited the-late Bill Sorenson, her business partner, as being her most important mentor.

Rivard said remodeling some houses she has to sell will be keeping her busy. One of her former employees, JoAnn Gallegos, worked as a waitress during the entire time the diner was open. Prior to Wow, Gallegos worked for Rivard at another restaurant

WOW DINER | SEE PAGE 20

NEWS

NEWS

PUBLIC SAFETY

WEEKLY DWI REPORT Staff Reports Chelcee Pete June 3, 8:28 pm Aggravated DWI McK i n ley C o u n t y Sheriff’s D e p u t y T e r e n c e Willie wa s dispatched to an address on Mentmore Road in reference to property damage after Metro Dispatch said that a vehicle had struck part of a fence and was parked off the road. Willie searched the area and found the suspect vehicle about a mile and a half west of Carbon Coal Road and Mentmore Road. he made contact with the driver, Chelcee Pete, 28, of Fort Defiance, Ariz. who said she was trying to change her vehicle’s tire because it had burst while she was speeding. After noticing Pete showed signs of being intoxicated, including bloodshot watery eyes and an odor of alcohol on her breath, Willie asked if she had been drinking. Pete replied she consumed “99 Grapes” at about 9 or 10 that morning. Pete agreed to take the standard field sobriety tests and failed. She was placed under arrest and transported to the sheriff’s office for the breath test, where she posted samples of .18 and .19. She was then transported to McKinley C ou nt y Adu lt D e t e nt io n Center and booked on charges of aggravated DWI, duty upon striking fi xtures or other property upon a highway, open container, and no insurance. She was released on her own recognizance by a judge. Brian Kee May 11, 6:44 pm Aggravated DWI McKinley County Sheriff’s Deputy Terence Willie said he was dispatched to the YahTa-Hey Loop where a car had stopped in the middle of the road. When he got there, he and another deputy saw that the PUBLIC SAFETY

car’s engine was still running and the vehicle had been placed in park. They shut down the engine and made several attempts to wake the driver who was slumped over the wheel. Brian Kee, 31, of Church Rock, finally woke up and appeared to be confused. He was asked where he was going and he said “right here.” When asked how much he had to drink, he fi rst said “not much” and then said “nothing.” Deputies later found liquor in his car including an open bottle of vodka. When asked to take a field sobriety test, he said “I will to deny it.” He also refused to take a breath alcohol test. Kee wa s placed u nder arrest. He was then taken to the county jail where he wa s asked if he had been near anyone who tested positive for COVID-19 and he said yes. Jail officials refused to book him. He said he was joking, but they still refused and Willie transported Kee to his grandfather’s house in Vanderwagen.

He w a s c om i n g f r om Farmington. Because he had problems standing up, Lee asked if he would take the alternative field sobriety tests and he said no. He d id a g r e e t o t a ke a breath alcohol test a nd posted two samples of .23. Smith was refused admittance to McKinley County Adult Detention Center by the nursing staff, so he was transported to a local motel and he was told that a criminal summons would be filed for his charges. Emichael Sleuth May 2, 7:45 am DWI McKinley County Sheriff’s Deputy Jeremy Shirley said he was dispatched to Yah-Ta-Hey due to a one-vehicle accident that occurred on U.S. Highway 264. When he got there, he found

Emichael Sleuth, 35, of Sheep Springs, lying on the roadway. He saw his head move and said he could smell the alcohol on his breath. He asked him how much he had to drink and he replied “a lot.” It appeared that he had been ejected from his car after it had rolled several times. At that point, emergency personnel transported him to GIMC where he was treated for a broken pelvis and broken ribs. Shirley spoke to him a little later and asked him again how much he had to drink and this time he said three beers. He said he was on his way to work when he had his accident. Shirley then ordered blood to be drawn for a blood alcohol test. Sleuth remained in treatment at the hospital due to his injuries while a criminal summons was fi led. When the criminal complaint, DWI citation, traffic citation and notice of his New Mexico driver’s license revocation were delivered at the hospital, Emichael was already in

the ICU ward and no officers were allowed inside. Shorty, Rayvie Sakima Kerick Kee Armstrong Feb. 29, 3:51 pm Intoxicated Motorist On Feb. 29, Deputy Ivan Tsethlikai saw a gray car parked on the north side of Deadhorse Speedway with two occupants passed out in the front seats. The pa ssenger, Ray v ie Sakima Shorty, woke up and was placed in handcuffs and placed in Tsethlikai’s patrol unit. Then the deputy contacted Kerick Kee Armstrong, the driver, and placed him in handcuffs. He checked for bench warrants on the two, and Shorty had an outstanding warrant from the New Mexico State Police. Sergeant Tammy Houghtaling arrived and took custody of Shorty, taking him to the Gallup Adult Detention Center. Tsethlikai took Armstrong to Gallup Detox.

Brandon Smith May 2, 11:58 am DUI McKinley County Sheriff’s Deputy Johnson Lee was dispatched to the 9.1-mile marker on U.S. Highway 371 because of a car accident. When he got there, he saw two cars with the calling party, Myrick Salcido-Ramone standing beside one of them. Salcido-Ramone told Lee he was at home when he saw a car run through his fence and keep going, dragging a part of the fence behind him. He got in his car and followed the car until it stopped. Lee then went to talk to Brandon Smith, 27, of Dove Creek, Colo., who was sitting on the ground and showed signs of being intoxicated. Smith got up and had a hard time keeping his balance. When asked how much he had to drink, he said half a pint about two hours before driving. Gallup Sun • Friday June 26, 2020

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Weekly Police Activity Reports Staff Reports WINDOW BREAKER Thoreau, June 16 A Thoreau ma n wa s arrested for criminal damage to property after a store clerk refused to sell him liquor. The clerk told McKinley County Sheriff’s Deputy Paul Davis Jr. that a man came into the Thoreau Speedway Store about 9:25 pm on June 16 and attempted to buy liquor. Because he was intoxicated, the store clerk refused. The ma n then beca me very upset, said the clerk, and stormed out of the store. As he left, he raised his right hand

into a fist and hit one of the windows in the front door and shattered it. By the time Davis arrived at the area, the man was no longer in the area but using the clerk’s description, Davis was able to fi nd him. He was identified as Matthew Largo, 39. Davis took Largo back to the store where the clerk identified him as the man who broke the window. He was then transported to the county jail. C A M P I N G TRESPASSERS Gallup, June 15 T he McK i n ley Cou nt y Sheriff’s Office was asked to

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investigate reports of people setting up a camp without permission about a mile north of Gallup on property owned by Gallup Land Partners on June 15. When deputies arrived at the site, they found several individuals who ran away when they saw the deputies arrive. Two people were taken into custody. The woman, identified as Tammie Latham, 36, of Gallup, said she had been living there for a week. She was arrested on a bench warrant. David

Johnson, 55, of Smith Lake, was given a trespass notice. The following day, deputies visited the site again and found no one there. They did fi nd numerous items, including tents and blankets at the site.  UNWELCOME DRUNK Gamerco, June 14 Ken net h Begay, 29, of Gallup, was arrested on June 14 for battery on a household member, but in a situation that has become very common in the last three months, personnel at the county jail refused to book him into the jail because he had tested positive for the

COVID-19 virus. Begay’s ex-girlfriend had told sheriff’s deputies that Begay showed up to her apartment intoxicated and uninvited and when she told him to leave, he had hit her on the side of her head with his fi st. She said he also pushed one of her children on the side of the head, as well, causing him pain. By the time deputies had arrived, Begay was not in the apartment, but was found hiding in the back of the complex. Deputies said Begay was uncooperative and resisted being put into the police unit, saying “You think you are tough.� The deputies had to take him to his apartment and release him after jail officials refused to book him.

Gallup Police issue missing person alert Staff Reports

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he Ga l lup Pol ice Department is asking for the public’s help in locating Tiffany Erica

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Gray, 35, of Gallup. She was last seen on June 20 at Days Inn West, 1603 W. Hwy. 66, in Gallup. She was wearing a white shirt and black pants at the time she disappeared. Gray is described as 5’3�, 160 pounds with brown eyes and waist-length black hair. She has a “DITTO� tattoo on her right tricep and three dots below her right eye. Gray was last seen driving a black 2015 Chevy Blazer with a cracked windshield and a feather hanging from the rearview mirror. Her intended destination is unknown. If you have any information on the whereabouts

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Friday June 26, 2020 • Gallup Sun

PUBLIC SAFETY

INDIAN COUNTRY

NEWS

Family Dollar doesn’t mix with liquor NAVAJO NATION LEADERS OPPOSE LICENSE APPLICATION Staff Reports

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INDOW ROCK, Ariz. — Navajo Nation President Jonathan Nez and Vice President Myron Lizer issued a letter to the Arizona State Liquor Board and the Apache County Board of Supervisors June 23, in which they expressed strong opposition to the Family Dollar store’s notice of application to sell alcohol in their store located on fee land in the community of St. Michaels, Ariz. Fee land is reser vation land no longer in trust or subject to restriction. It can refer to reservation land owned by non-Natives. In the letter, Nez and Lizer

mentioned the difficulties Navajo People have had with alcohol and said, “This application poses a direct threat to the health and safety of the residents of St. Michael’s Chapter and the entire Navajo Nation … We cannot stand by and allow this liquor license application to go unchallenged.” The Apache County Board of Supervisors has the authority to recommend the approval or denial of the liquor license application to the Arizona State Liquor Board. The Board of Supervisors has scheduled a hearing July 28 beginning at 8:30 am at the Apache County Clerk’s Office in St. Johns, Ariz. “It is our obligation as Navajo leaders to protect our entire

nation, and particularly the most vulnerable of our people. We will continue to fight any liquor license application on or near the Navajo Nation. We ask that Apache County and the State of Arizona respect the Nation’s sovereign authority and recognize that Family Dollar’s proposed retail sales of packaged liquor would violate Navajo Nation laws and regulations. On behalf of the Nation and our Navajo People, we request that the Apache County Board of Supervisors recommend denial of Family Dollar’s application and that the Arizona State Liquor Board deny the application,” they added. In April, Nez and Lizer also wrote to the Coconino County

Board of Supervisors requesting support to oppose another application for a liquor license by the Family Dollar store located in Tuba City, Ariz. “Our Navajo people are the primary customers that contribute to all of the revenue of these businesses. If Family Dollar continues to pursue liquor licenses in our communities, we strongly encourage our Navajo people to boycott these stores — They are taking advantage of our consumers. We demand that Family Dollar withdraw their applications for liquor licenses,” Nez said. People living within a one-mile radius of the St. Michaels store who wish to add their voices to those

Navajo Nation President Jonathan Nez of Nez and Lizer can visit https://azliquor.gov/assets/ documents/board/FY2019/ ProtestInstructions.pdf

Funeral service for fallen Navajo Police Department Officer Michael Lee Staff Reports

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HINLE, Ariz. — The funeral service for Nava jo Pol ice Department Officer Michael Lee was held June 25 at The Potter’s House Christian Center in Chinle, Ariz. T he Nava jo Pol ice Department assisted the family in the planning and coordination of the service. The family of Officer Lee put the safety and wellbeing of everyone wishing to pay their respects foremost in its plans. “O f f icer L e e wa s a d a mant about keeping family member s sa fe du r i ng th is p a n d e m i c .… P l a n n i n g a service under these circumstances is difficult, but with the heart Officer Lee had for his family and community, he wou ld w a nt ever yone t o be sa fe,” Ch ief Ph i l l ip Francisco said. The service was limited to immediate family members only. The family is respectfully requesting any in-kind donation be done electronically through the established memorial account. INDIAN COUNTRY

''A Tradition''

Navajo Police Department Officer Michael Lee. Photo Credit: Courtesy of Navajo Police Department Donation Information: “Memorial Account for Officer Michael Lee” Wells Fargo Bank Account: 5341652773 Donations can also be made through Zelle transfers can utilize the following information: Account: 5341652773 Phone Number: 928-551-3225 Name: Erica Jake

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CARES Act funding ruling receives accolades Staff Reports

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INDOW ROCK , Ariz. — Navajo Nation President Jonathan Nez and Vice President Myron Lizer applaud U.S. District Court Judge Amit Mehta’s recent ruling ordering the fi nal distribution of the remaining $679 million in federal CARES Act funding be released to Native American tribes, including the Navajo Nation. On June 15, Judge Mehta ruled that the U.S. Treasury Department’s withholding of CARES Act funding intended to assist Native American Nations in their fight against COVID-19, created an unreasonable delay and is no longer acceptable during a time of unprecedented public health crisis and that there is “no court order preventing� the Treasury Department from releasing the $679 million to tribal governments. With the passage of the CARES Act funding on March 27, which included $8 billion for federally recognized tribal governments, Congress directed the

Treasury Department to fully distribute CARES Act funding within 30 days, or by April 26. More than 54 days have passed since the funding was congressionally-mandated, putting tribes at a greater disadvantage in the fight against COVID-19. Within that time, tribal governments and communities, particularly the Navajo Nation, have relied on tribally-generated funds and public donations to fight COVID-19. As a result, tribes have primarily run out of personal protective equipment, hospital resources and medical equipment, and humanitarian food relief for communities and families hit hard by the pandemic. “The Nez-Lizer Administration acted proactively to protect our tribal members and our communities. With the Navajo Nation Council’s help, $4 million was appropriated to gear up and fight this virus. We called upon Congress and federal agencies, such as the Centers for Disease Control and the Indian Health Service Headquarters, to help us,� Nez said. “Our regional Navajo Area

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was overrun. Now, 81 days after Congress appropriated these funds, Judge Mehta from the DC Federal District Court recognized the U.S. Treasury Department’s responsibility and obligation to distribute moneys according to the population formula which Judge Mehta said was, ‘fair and equitable.� As of June 22, there are 7,045 positive cases and 335 deaths — which is more than four-times the national average per capita. To prevent the spread of the virus, the Navajo Nation moved to restrict travel, established daily and weekend curfews, and mandated the use of face masks in public. As a result, the initial Navajo Area Indian Health Service surge projection for hospital admissions, ICU beds, and ventilators was less than the forecast and the infection peaked in mid-April rather than mid-May. To address current and future impacts of COVID-19, Nez and Lizer are working with the 24th Navajo Nation Council and Speaker Seth Damon on the expenditure plan for the $600 million dollars in CARES Act funding. Discussions include immediately providing $50 million to protect Navajo Nation front line warriors, doctors, nurses, public safety personnel, and law enforcement with the procurement of PPE and much needed resources to protect our families and communities. The plan also includes more than $550 million for water and utilities infrastructure, telecommunications, and other critical projects and initiatives to fight COVID-19.

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Indian Health Service and 638 health facilities stepped up to protect the health of our tribal members, but they quickly ran out of PPE. “We also took the initiative to set up emergency medical sites, and ran an aggressive public health education awareness campaign. “When we heard about the CARES Act funding, we advocated aggressively to ensure that the Navajo Nation and other tribes received adequate funding. Those tireless efforts resulted in an $8 billion appropriation to Native American tribal governments to fight the virus,� Nez pointed out. “We are thankful that the United States government and the U.S. Treasury Department honored its federal trust responsibility and distributed more than $600 million to the Navajo Nation to help fight COVID-19.� However, the delays in CARES Act funding have hindered the Navajo Nation. In the time-frame spent waiting, cases of COVID-19 tripled on the Nation. Many families lost loved ones and the health care system

Friday June 26, 2020 • Gallup Sun

The Nez-Lizer Administration commends Mehta for ordering the U.S Treasury Department to fully distribute the second round of funding. Mehta recognized that the funding formula the U.S. Treasury Department utilized in the distribution of 60% of the $8 billion dollars was fair and equitable. Mehta also ruled that the $679 million dollars was 90 times more than the amount the plaintiffs’ requested of $7.65 million. “I applaud Judge Mehta for ordering the U.S Treasury Department to fully distribute the second tranche of funding. As noted, Judge Mehta recognized that the funding formula the U.S. Treasury Department utilized in the distribution of 60% of the $8 billion dollars was fair and equitable,� Lizer said. “Navajo Nation and other Tribal Nations cannot stand idly by and endure another delay. It’s time that the U.S. Treasury promptly distribute the funds since they are well past due to tribal governments,� he added. The Navajo Nation will continue to advocate for the prompt distribution of CARES Act funding, and will continue to pursue Navajo Nation legislations to ensure wise and accountable use of the $600 million dollars to protect our COVID-19 frontline heroes working in the Navajo Nation hospitals, law enforcement, and communities, to fight for water and electricity lines for communities and homes, and for telecommunications resources for telecommuting, telehealth, education, and economic recovery.

INDIAN COUNTRY

STATE & REGION

NEWS

Special Session ends NUMEROUS TIMELY ISSUES ADDRESSED By Beth Blakeman Associate Editor

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avigating the global fi nancial uncertainty brought about by the novel coronavirus was one of the goals of New Mexico Governor Michelle Lujan Grisham in calling the first special session of the 54th New Mexico Legislature, which began on June 18 and ended June 22.

Lu jan Grisham said she received what she was seeking, a bipartisan roadmap that can be used to move forward in the coming months. “My administration has from day one emphasized the importance of expanding the state’s reserves; I am glad to have done that work on the front end, which has ensured our state will have needed f lexibility as we move forward. In our fi scal approach,

a responsible and responsive final product, a state government that meets New Mexicans directly where their needs are, has been and will always be the ultimate goal.� She went on to say that the work of rebuilding our state economy has only begun. “I look forward to thoroughly eva luating the amended state budget and the additiona l legislation now headed to my desk in the

New Mexico Governor Michelle Lujan Grisham coming weeks,� she said. Also coming to the governor’s desk will be legislation addressing small business relief, civ il r ights, public safety reform, and election

Lieutenant Governor Howie Morales reform. - Among the bills introduced, was Senator Clemente Sanchez, D-McK inley

SPECIAL SESSION | SEE PAGE 20

Planning public school re-entry FROM ZOOM TO CLASSROOM Staff Reports

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A N TA F E — T h e New Mexico Public Education Department announced the state plan to return students safely to classes this fall. Acknowledging that the pandemic is still with us, on June 23, Education Secretary Ryan Stewart spoke about what the future holds for the next school year. “We’re not through this pandemic by a long shot, but as we learn to live safely in a COVID-positive world, this collective effort has fl attened the curve to the point where we can engage in the process of reentering our school buildings,� he said. In May, Stewart convened a re-entry task force including educators, parents, administrators, public health officials, and many other stakeholder groups to look at options to safely get students back on track with learning. Surveys of families and educators were conducted. The state’s goal is to move all schools into a full school schedule as soon as it is safely possible. Across New Mexico, the 2020-2021 school year will begin with a hybrid model in which the number of students in the building is limited to allow for maximum social distancing. Students will rotate between in-person and online learning. STATE AND REGION

The Department of Health and medical advisory team will continue to aggressively track and regularly assess rates of spread of the virus. Based on the data from this initial period, state health officials will determine when and where schools can safely move into a full reentry mode. T he ph a s e d a ppr o a ch allows the state to analyze the impact of a controlled re-entry before moving into a full-scale implementation. This will help ensure that the epidemiological assumptions about how schools impact virus transmission can be thoroughly tested before full re-entry. Schools will likely need to implement hybrid or remote models at some point in the year. The phased approach allows for preparation and practice in the implementation of this model at the beginning of the year, so that schools and communities are ready for this eventuality later in the year. The phased approach balances the legitimate concerns of families who expressed anxiety about returning fullscale right away, with those who are rightly eager to return to a full school schedule. T he follow i ng requ i re ments will be in place for all schools whether operating in a hybrid or traditional model: Large group gatherings will be avoided at school buildings.

New Mexico Public Education Department Secretary Ryan Stewart Face coverings are required except while eating, drinking and exercising (with very limited exceptions for students and staff with medical conditions precluding wearing of a mask or face shield; those medical conditions must be documented). Schools must adhere to social distancing requirements of their designated category. All staff must be screened every day, including a temperature check and review of potential symptoms upon arrival at school. A l l st a f f must pa r t icipate in ongoing surveillance testing. All sites must coordinate with local health officials to conduct contact tracing and rapid response testing. All transportation staff and students boarding buses must wear face coverings. Meals must be provided to students during both in-person instruction and remote learning.

On the front cover of the New Mexico Public Education Department Reentry Guidance pamphlet is a picture of teacher Melisha Martinez reading aloud with students in her combined third/fourth grade class at La Tierra Montessori School, Ohkay Owingeh in 2019. Photo Credit: LANL Foundation, Andrea Neal Schools must create plans for and be prepared to remain in a hybrid model or shift to a distance learning model shou ld hea lt h cond it ion s necessitate such actions.

Stewa r t ex pres sed h is confidence that the re-entry plan would keep the health and safety of students as the top priority in the new school year.

is pleased to announce that

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Gallup Sun • Friday June 26, 2020

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NEWS

HEALTH & ENVIRONMENT

Joining forces to protect water Staff Reports

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hree New Mexicobased organizations have joined together to appeal the U. S. Env ironmental Protection Agency and the Army Corps of Engineers’ Navigable Water Protection Rule also known as the 2020 Rule. The 2020 Rule, which went into effect June 22, drastically shrinks the number of New Mexico waters that are protected under the Clean Water Act. Amigos Bravos, the New Mexico Acequia Association and Gila Resources Information Project fi led their appeal June 23 with the U. S. District Court for the District of New Mexico. “The Trump administration has opened the pollution floodgates,” Amigos Bravos Projects Director Rachel Conn said. “This 2020 Dirty Water Rule

protects the interests of polluters over the interests of the public who rely on clean water for drinking, agriculture, recreation, and cultural values.” New Mexico is disproportionately affected by the 2020 Rule because of the large number of small streams in the state that flow only during wet times of the year. These smaller ephemeral streams have historically been protected by the Clean Water Act, but under the new rule they are left unprotected. “We are deeply concerned that many of our streams and rivers would lose protections under the 2020 rule. We rely on clean water to grow crops and raise livestock, to provide locally grown food for families, and to support agricultural livelihoods in our communities,” New Mexico Acequia Association Executive Director Paula Garcia said.

Unlike federal rollbacks in other areas of environmental protection, New Mexico’s waters do not have state protections to fall back on. New Mexico is one of just three states that does not have delegated authority from the EPA to regulate discharges of pollution into rivers, streams, and lakes. There is now no entity with regulatory authority to manage existing discharges from the wastewater treatment plants, mines, federal facilities, and other polluters that currently discharge into these smaller New Mexico streams. “This federal rule all but nullifies the protections of the Clean Water Act over many streams and wetlands in New Mexico. It reverses nearly fi fty years of interpretation of the Clean Water Act by EPA, the Army Corps of Engineers, and the courts,” New Mexico Environmental Law Center staff

The Jemez River, downstream from Jemez Pueblo, is one of New Mexico’s many bodies of water that relies on the protection of the Clean Water Act. Photo Credit: commons. wikimedia.org attorney Charles de Saillan said. “A s t h i s reg u lat ion i s

DIRTY WATER | SEE PAGE 14

Habitat protection for endangered mud turtle could come too late REMAINING 150 TURTLES THREATENED BY BORDER WALL Staff Reports

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UCSON, Ariz. — The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service announced final critical habitat protection June 22 for the endangered Sonoyta mud turtle. These highly aquatic turtles are found only in Pima County, Ariz. and Sonora, Mexico.

“These little turtles are hanging on by a thread and need all the protection they can get,” Randy Serraglio at the Center for Biological Diversity said. “This critical habitat designation is a welcome step, but the hard truth is that the lawless construction of the border wall could render the new protections meaningless.”

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Friday June 26, 2020 • Gallup Sun

The critical habitat consists of 12.3 acres in the Rio Sonoyta watershed of Organ Pipe Cactus National Monument in Pima County. This area is currently occupied by the only known population of Sonoyta mud turtles left in the United States — an estimated 150 turtles living in a small, spring-fed pond just over 100 yards away from the border with Mexico. “In its zeal to complete its racist border wall, the Trump administration has waived dozens of environmental laws, including the Endangered Species Act,” Serraglio said. “Critical habitat normally doubles a species’ chance of survival and recovery, but in this case it will not help against the biggest threat the turtle faces.” With webbed feet and an innate ability to swim, the Sonoyta mud turtle has evolved to be highly aquatic in one of the driest parts of the Sonoran Desert. Diversion of surface water and pumping of groundwater have led to the loss of much of the watery habitat the turtle needs to survive. Drought conditions that

The Sonoyta mud turtle, found in only two places in the Southwest, could disappear entirely because of the Trump Administration’s planned border wall. Photo Credit: Courtesy National Park Service have persisted for the past 20 years have worsened the turtle’s habitat loss. Further, long stretches of dry streams have isolated populations of the turtles, limiting opportunities for migration. Now the lone U.S. population is threatened by vast groundwater pumping to support border-wall construction. “The spring water that supports the tiny remaining population of Sonoyta mud turtles in the U.S. comes from an aquifer that was laid down thousands of years ago,” Serraglio said.

“Border-wall construction crews are sucking that water out of the ground at a stunning and completely unsustainable rate. If it continues, it’ll only be a matter of time before the Sonoyta mud turtle becomes the latest casualty of Trump’s border blitzkrieg,” he added. Four populations are also currently known in Mexico, but the loss of the turtle has already been reported from an additional site. At all the sites, the number of turtles has declined as aquatic habitat has been reduced.

HEALTH & ENVIRONMENT

OPINIONS

Small improvements bring little change in child well-being By Sharon Kayne Communications Director New Mexico Voices for Children

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LBUQUERQUE — Despite some improvements in several of the national 2020 KIDS COUNT Data Book indicators, New Mexico continues to rank 50th in the nation on child well-being. This is the fourth year the state has ranked at the very bottom for child well-being, having ranked 50th in 2013, 2018, and 2019. The Data Book, which is put out every year by the Annie E. Casey Foundation, looks at 16 indicators of child well-being that track economic, education, and health issues, among others, then ranks the 50 states accordingly. Although the annual report uses the most recent data available, most of the data for this edition

are from 2018 – so it does not reflect the current pandemic and economic slowdown. “What this data reflects is the end result of ten years of stingy state budgets under previous administrations that starved our schools, courts, health care, and other services that our families and businesses need in order to thrive,” New Mexico Voices for Children executive director James Jimenez said. “We were able to undo some of that damage during the 2019 and 2020 legislative sessions, but how lawmakers respond to the current recession will determine whether those gains are sustained,” he added. Among the improvements was the child poverty rate, which at 26% was the lowest it has been in nearly a decade. The teen birth rate also continued to decline. The rate was 25 births per 1,000 female

teens ages 15 to 19 — a big drop from 66 per 1,000 in the 2010 Data Book. As the result of the Medicaid expansion under the Affordable Care Act in New Mexico, the percentage of children without health insurance (5%) continued to be a bright spot, ranking it 24th in the nation on that indicator. Still, other data indicate that there is much more work to be done. “Our educational outcomes are still a big concern and are not indicative of what our children are capable of achieving, given the right resources,” N.M. Voices Deputy Director said Amber Wallin said. “Our share of young children not enrolled in an educational care setting has improved, but only incrementally. “We did make some gains in education funding over the past year, but sustained investments — especially through the pandemic and economic downturn — will be needed before we see

the benefit of those increases in measurable outcomes,” she added. New this year is a replacement of one of the health indicators. Teens (ages 10 to 17) who are overweight or obese, has replaced the previous indicator, teens who abuse alcohol or drugs. Changes in how the data were collected in states across the nation made the former indicator less reliable, while comprehensive data on teens who are overweight or obese has recently become available. New Mexico does not do well on this new indicator, with 32% of teens being overweight or obese, ranking the state 33rd in the nation on this measure. “The continued ranking of 50th should be a call to action for our state lawmakers, who are looking ahead to future state budgets,” Jimenez said. “From 2008 to 2018 we tried to cut our way to prosperity. It didn’t work

Sharon Kayne

then and we can’t do it now. “We’ve got to end ou r over-reliance on the boom-andbust oil and gas industries and raise revenue from more reliable, sustainable sources so that we can continue to invest in the education, health care, and public safety services that our families rely on and our economy needs,” he said. The report’s data and rankings will be discussed in more detail at NM Voices’ virtual Kids Count conference on Aug. 25, 2020. The full 2020 K IDS COUNT Data Book is available from the Annie E. Casey Foundation at aecf.org/ databook.

Tell Congress to ban wildlife trade By Center for Biological Diversity

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n the past 40 years, the worst human pandemics and epidemics — HIV, SARS, avian flu, swine flu, Ebola and Zika — all stemmed from trading or consuming animals and destroying their habitat. The solution couldn’t be clearer: Ban wildlife trade to reduce disease risk and save animals from overexploitation. Tell Congress to block trade now to save wildlife and help prevent future pandemics. Zoonotic d isea ses a re spread from animals, usually vertebrates, to humans — and approximately 70% of these diseases come from wildlife. The United States is one of the world’s top importers of wildlife, responsible for an estimated 20% of the global wildlife market. Getting a handle on this rampant trade is a very clear priority. The Center for Biological OPINIONS

These widely trafficked mammals live in hollow trees or burrows, are nocturnal and eat mainly ants and termites. They are about the size of a housecat and their meat is prized as a delicacy in parts of China and Vietnam. Photo Credit: Center for Biological Diversity Diversity is already in court fighting for endangered species protection for pangolins, the world’s most highly trafficked mammals. The Center has

curtailed the trade in reptiles in 10 states and continues to crack down on the reptile trade nationwide. By capturing, trading and

slaughtering wildlife, humans are spreading disease. We’ll fight species by species, but the best way to protect wildlife and prevent pandemics is to

shut down the global trade and overexploitation of animals. Tell Congress to ban the wildlife trade that’s endangering animals — and us.

Gallup Sun • Friday June 26, 2020

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Annual Economic Development Course goes online By Grant Taylor Community Economics Lab Finance New Mexico Project

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ather tha n ca ncel t he a n nua l New Mex ico Econom ic Development Course in the face of COVID-19, organizers are pleased to announce the “Basic Course,� as it’s colloquially known, will be delivered online in 2020. Students will begin the sixweek course in mid-July via Zoom. Lectures, discussions, and case studies will be conducted remotely and over a longer time frame than in previous years, allowing people who couldn’t attend in person in the past to participate from

their office or home. Like many conferences and other congregate events scheduled this year, basic economic development courses have been canceled across the country due to the pandemic. New Mexico’s economic development course organizers believe teaching the course is as important as ever, particularly in light of the economic devastation caused by COVID-19. “We wish we were convening the course at Western New Mexico University this year, as we’ve done for decades,� course director Noreen Scott said. “With COVID-19 still such a looming threat, that’s just not possible; but we’re as resolved as ever to teach community leaders how to marshal their

DIRTY WATER | FROM PAGE 12 implemented, permits will not be necessary for discharging pollution into many rivers, lakes, and streams. Water quality will become degraded. Our clients will suffer because they rely on clean, unpolluted water for their businesses, irrigation of crops, watering of livestock, and recreation such as fishing, river rafting, and kayaking.� Even some of our larger iconic rivers such as the Gila River in the south and the Rio Costilla in the north are threatened by this rule. The rule removes automatic protections for interstate waters – both the Gila and Rio Costilla are interstate waters – and because both of these rivers run dry before meeting up with larger downstream rivers, it is uncertain if they will remain protected under this new rule. “It is horrifying that a New Mexico river as important as the Gila is left unprotected by this rule,� Executive Director of Gila Resources Information Project Allyson Siwik said. “Irrigators and the growing recreation-based economy of southwestern New Mexico are dependent on clean water flowing in the Gila.� The New Mexico Environment Department has estimated that as much as 96% of the surface waters in the state could lose protection under the new rule.

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economies to recovery.� Starting with an afternoon orientation on July 19, students will attend lectures and discussions led by nationally known economic developers every Friday for six weeks. Course curriculum covers the core components of economic development, including business retention and expansion, recruitment, workforce development, real estate, fi nance, marketing, and ethics. Students will also break into groups for a couple of hours each week to apply themselves to job creation case studies that explore real communities facing real challenges. Students are exposed to a powerful and much-needed framework and methodology for planning and managing the

complexity of an economic development program, Scott said. Sanctioned by the I nter nat iona l Econom ic Development Council, the course covers the fundamental building blocks of an economic development strategy. The basic course is the first step in becoming a credentialed economic development professional, but it is not just for economic development practitioners.  Scott said the course is ideal for current or aspiring economic development practitioners, local- and tribal-government officials, financial institutions, chambers of commerce, public utility professionals, workforce developers, and a variety of professionals

interested in promoting the economic prosperity of their communities. “With not only struggling community economies, organizations and local governments facing budget shortfalls, we’re sensitive to needed belt-tightening,� she said. “This year’s online Basic Course allows many professionals to attend without incurring additional costs of travel and lodging.� The $495 fee ($595 for out-of-state attendees) covers registration, books and course materials. Rural scholarships are available by calling Noreen Scott at (505) 710-7172. Participants should register by July 10. Visit www.iaecondev.org/registration, or email basicecondevcourse@gmail.com.

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Artist portrays the world as his coloring book GALLUPIAN CHRIS ACEVEDO USES HIS PAINTINGS TO INSPIRE, MOTIVATE OTHERS By Dee Velasco For the Sun

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orn and raised in Gallup, 36-year-old Mexican-American Chris Acevedo’s eyes were opened to the world of art as a little kid who would watch his uncle draw. Fascinated by what his uncle could do with a pencil, Acevedo started drawing simple cartoon characters. He realized he had a passion for art and found himself drawing more and more. Taking that pencil in his hand as his uncle did, Acevedo knew what he wanted to do when he grew up. “In elementa r y school, my imagination began to run wild,” he said. “I began to draw doodles. I started to entertain myself. Later on, I saw the value of my drawings when people would come to me and ask me to draw stuff for them.” Joining the Navy right out of high school, Acevedo said it made him grow up quickly with a whole new outlook on life, attitude, and mentality. But he still had art running through his veins. Stationed in Pearl Harbor, Hawaii as an engineer, Acevedo would pass the time drawing and creating tattoos for his fellow Navy friends. At one point he was told by a Naval officer who looked upon

Artist Chris Acevedo on Jan. 13 standing in front of his mural “Growth,” behind Sammy C’s. It is part of a series. Photo Credit: Courtesy Chris Acevedo his artwork, that he should pursue his unique talent. And that is what Acevedo did. He left the Navy in 2007, and reached another goal in his life — going to college. With help from the Navy, he attended the Art Institute of Phoenix from which he received his bachelor’s degree in Graphic Design in 2010. He worked i n g raph ic desig n for a compa ny i n Phoenix and began producing logos, as well. But his art

The ‘Nightmare Before Christmas’ characters “Jack Skellington” and “Sally” painted on the windows at Pizza 9 in Rio West Mall in Gallup Oct. 12, 2019. When painting this, Acevedo said the best part was seeing the reactions of both the children and their parents as the work progressed. Photo Credit: Courtesy Chris Acevedo COMMUNITY

career took another turn as he found himself going back to Gallup to tend to his sick grandfather. “Taking care of my grandfather, I put my art on the back burner and began driving a truck for a living and would often think about my art,” he said. “I don’t know if it was God telling me to get back into my art, but I injured myself on the job and had to give up trucking. I found myself getting back to what I loved.” He started doing window art and from that, word of mouth started keeping him busy. He created his own brand and started his own side business specializing in window painting, holiday splashes/ themes, promotions, murals and custom canvas paintings. His latest venture is part of the Gallup Main Street project to spruce up the area. Located in the back-alley way of restaurant Sammy C’s, he painted on four panels on an old building. Other paintings include a Bob Ma rley por trait on the business Smokeshop on Historic Route 66. “Gallup is a big art town and for me to be able to do what I like to do and to be up here [Gallup] with the rest of the greats [artists] it was a great opportunity,” he said. Acevedo descr ibes h is

Chris Acevedo painting in the back alley behind Sammy C’s in Gallup June 13. Photo Credit: Courtesy Chris Acevedo

Asked by a friend if Chris could paint her two favorite pets, he painted this 16x20 oil on canvas of two dogs. This portrait was done on Jan. 16, 2018 in Gallup. Photo Credit: Courtesy Chris Acevedo artwork as visual. He also works in oil paints, acrylic, pencils and pens. Since coming back to Gallup, he has been painting professionally for the past five years. “I can look at something and recreate it and have fun with it. I like doing stuff from the Lowrider Magazine and artists that were in those magazines.” Acevedo recently painted a 2020 Congrats to a local high school senior on the windows of Jerry’s Restaurant downtown. He said when painting the design on the window, he was proud to be a part of the love. Acevedo says he creates beaut y to encou rage a nd

inspire those who have their dreams locked up within. When asked what advice he cou ld g ive for fel low upcoming artists or for that matter those chasing their dreams, he simply said, “Do what you love.” “It’s sad when people trade in their dreams for security, comfort, and satisfaction,” he said. “Why work an 8 to 5 job and you’re not happy. Live your dream and pass that on to your family. Go after it, if drawing, dancing, or singing is your passion — go for it. Do what you love, and you’ll never work a day in your life!” You can view more of Acevedo’s artwork at: FB/ Acevedo Artworks.

Gallup Sun • Friday June 26, 2020

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‘Irresistible’ requires patience, but surges ahead by the close By Glenn Kay For the Sun

RATING:  OUT OF  RUNNING TIME: 102 MINUTES

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h is f i l m w i l l be available via video on demand streaming platforms June

26. Stand-up comedian and ex-host of The Daily Show Jon Stewart is known for his sharp commentary on government policy, political figures, the media and current events in general. Since retiring from his position on the show in 2015, he has maintained a relatively low-profile. This week sees the release of a new film which he wrote and directed. As one might have expected, Irresistible finds Stewart in familiar territory, poking fun at the election process and hoping to drive home a larger point about its effect on the general populace. D emo c r a t ic c a mp a i g n strategist Ga r y Zi m mer (Steve Carell) finds himself a laughing stock in his field after losing the 2016 election to Donald Trump. Knowing

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Democratic campaign strategist Gary Zimmer (Steve Carell) is face-to-face with Republican strategist Faith Brewster (Rose Byrne) on the street, as she takes particular pleasure making him feel foolish. Photo Credit: Focus Features. that his party’s failure in the election may have resulted from being unable to make his candidate relatable to r u ra l A mer ica , he sees a sign of hope after viewing a

Friday June 26, 2020 • Gallup Sun

video on Youtube. It features Wisconsin farmer and ex-military man Jack Hastings (Chris Cooper) standing up for the rights of immigrants at a town council meeting. Zimmer convinces Hastings to run for mayor as a Democratic candidate, hoping that his election to office will start to turn the tide nationally. As he attempts to train the well-intentioned, but blunt farmer, it draws attention, including that of Zimmer’s swor n enemy, Republica n strategist Fa ith Brewster (Rose Byrne). The competition gains national attention and more money is thrown behind the campaign from the parties and their donors. Early sections of the movie depict Zimmer’s arrival in the community and his inability to relate to the townspeople. Tr uthfully, these bits may be the clunkiest aspect of the feature. The protagonist’s complete inability to relate to the locals feels a bit forced and the jokes are hit and miss. Even the behavior of the locals seems stiff. In fact, the film may all be

too low-key and low energy early on. The movie certainly is attempting to build a quirky vibe for the town and its residents, but has trouble pulling it off in the first act. While it’s a slow build, things do end up improving significantly with the arrival of B r ew s t e r w h o f r e e l y admits that she takes great joy demoralizing Zimmer and seeing him suffer. It’s fun to watch their grudges play out over the course of the campaign. Once the national parties get involved and the two go head-to-head using fullblown, but familiar political antics against each other’s clients, the jokes land and the laughs come more readily. Effective bits include an amusing series of ads for the candidates, as well as the introduction of some assistants, a pollster and analytic specialists (including Topher Grace and Natasha Lyonne), who seek to change the mindsets of voters. This leads to an amusing misread of one demographic in a specific town region. And on a more serious note, the filmmaker

also scores some points in detailing inherent problems in the fundraising process. Co-star Cooper also delivers an effective, heartfelt speech late in the film about the broken electoral system, poking fun at elitists. Finally, the mov ie also offers a strong climactic payoff, which ultimately makes up for the awkward opening act. The big Election Day itself offers unexpected and su r pr i si ng moment s t h at deliver the film’s ultimate point with great effectiveness. Honestly, this is a title that will likely play better the second time around. In the end, Irresistible requires a little patience early on as it slowly develops its themes and issues. However, once the election hits its stride and the movie begins firing on all cylinders, it surges ahead and wins the day. This is a funny and even heartfelt satire detailing the depths that political campaigns will sink to in order to influence and secure our vote. V ISI T: W W W. CINEMASTANCE.COM COMMUNITY

Blu-ray/DVD New Release Roundup for June 26, 2020 By Glenn Kay For the Sun

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elcome back to another look at highlights coming your way on Blu-ray and DVD. A few more interesting releases are being offered up. So, since you likely can’t make it out to the movies this week, be sure to give one of these titles a try! BIG NEW RELEASES! BURDEN: Based on a true story, this tale is set in a small South Carolina town. W hen a Ku K lu x Klan museum opens, a local A fricanAmerican reverend and social activist a nticipates trouble. In order to keep the peace, he contacts and begins talking with the young leader of the local Klan group. Remarkably, the priest eventually forms a relationship that inspires the head member to leave the racist group, make amends and start life anew. The independent feature received split notices. Half thought it repeated elements of better, similarly-themed movies with less effectiveness. Still, just as many stated that while it wasn’t subtle in its approach, the fi lm did make its points effectively and featured strong performances. This title is being released this week exclusively on DVD (presumably a Blu-ray will follow at a later date). It stars Garrett Hedlund, Forest Whitaker, Tom Wilkinson, Andrea Riseborough, Tess Harper and Usher Raymond. D I A N A K E N N E D Y: NOTHING FA NC Y: Documentary fans may be curious about this non-fiction feature that focuses on the life of master chef, teacher a nd environmental activist Diana Kennedy. The movie includes new interviews with the 90-something figure at her impressive, eco-sustainable home. They talk about her incredible experiences and COMMUNITY

legendary food creations. This is intercut with archival materials like television appearances and encounters with figures in her field of study. Response was unanimously positive toward this picture. While the press thought the movie might have been a little too fawning of its subject at times, they still called the woman incredibly charismatic and thought the movie did a great deal to bring her work and accomplishments to light. For the time being, this title is available exclusively on DVD. I M MO RTA L I T Y O R BUST: This documentary follows the 2016 presidential campaign of Zoltan Istvan. For those who don’t remember the candidate, this entrepreneur/sci-fi author founded the Transhumanist Party. He drove across the U.S. in an “immortality bus�, promising to change humanity emotionally a nd phy s i cally through science, with an emphasis on overcoming aging. His unusual approach did gain attention and plenty of followers. The film captures his life and campaign. It also attempts to get to the root of what inspired him on his journey, with the crew discovering a possible inspiration when they interview and learn about his family. It looks like this picture is debuting on disc, so there currently aren’t any reviews just yet. However, it has played at various film festivals and won a few prizes at these screenings. THE L AST SUPPER: Released in its homeland under the title Das Letzte Mahl, this foreign-language drama is set in Germany on the day that Hitler assumes power in the country. An extended German-Jewish family come together for a family dinner and discuss what has occurred. Some members express their admiration for the dictator and a few don’t take

the matter seriously, while others detail their concern about it. Over the course of the evening arguments follow, and their relationships come under great strain. This picture is making its debut on disc in this part of the world. As such, there aren’t many reviews available for it. Still, it appears that the feature was well received at various festivals, where it won several awards for its cinematography. So, one can be certain that at the very least it will look great. The cast includes Konstantin Freyer, Br uno Eyron a nd Sharon Brauner. INHERITANCE: When the patriarch of a wealthy and powerful New York-based family passes away, family members arrive with an eye on collecting his inheritance. His daughter receives a particularly strange and unexpected message from the deceased man that divulges an incredible family secret ... one that threatens to tear the entire family apart. The majority of critics did not think that the film was intended to be silly and suggested viewers would be rolling their eyes at increasingly ridiculous plot twists. For the time being, this title is arriving exclusively on DVD. It stars Lily Collins, Simon Pegg, Connie Nielsen, Chance Crawford and Patrick Warburton. JASPER MALL: Truthfully, there isn’t a whole lot of information available about this particular effort, although it does arrive with some i mpre s sive credentials. Earlier in the year, the feature was nominated for Best Docu ment a r y at t he Sla mda nce F i l m Fe st iva l (one of the bigger independent film festivals in North America). The moviemakers decided to follow the slow decline and death of a shopping mall in Jasper, Ala. It goes behind the scenes to show the business struggles facing the property owners. Tenants and regular shoppers are interviewed, sharing their thoughts about the locale and its imminent demise. General response from festival-goers has been positive, with a few stating that the movie displays how a popular social gathering center has faded with the arrival of online shopping.

BL ASTS FROM THE PAST! Shout! Factory has a couple of intriguing Blu-rays. The fi rst is the period comedy The Road to Wellville (1994). It humorously details the efforts of eccentric Dr. John Kellogg (well-known for creating the famous breakfast cereal with his brother) to start a health s a n it a r iu m in Michigan. His ideas a nd t ea chings turn out to be pretty over-the-top and extreme, l e a d i n g some of the patients to revolt against their health club leader. It stars Anthony Hopkins, Br id get Fond a , M a t t hew Broder ick, Joh n Cu sa ck, Dana Carvey, Michael Lerner and many others. This flick from director Alan Parker (Midnight Ex press, Pink Floyd: The Wall, Angel Heart, The Commitments) wasn’t successful during its original run, but I remember fi nding it underrated and having plenty of amusing moments. Finally, Warner Archive has some great made-to-order discs coming your way. You can now pick up the Danny Kaye musical, Hans Christian Anderson (1952). Inspired by the real-life figure, it’s not so much a biopic as a fairy tale spun around the storyteller’s life, featuring a large helping of singing and dancing. The movie was nominated for six Academy Awards.

Horror fans will be incredibly excited about the Vincent Price classic House of Wax (1953) hitting Blu-ray. They’ve put it out before, but Warner Archive is repressing the fi lm in high defi nition once again in 2D and 3D (as it was originally presented in theaters). I actually saw a screening of a 3D print of the film many years ago at a cinema – while the movie doesn’t ram items out of the screen into your face, it has always looked spectacular in 3D ‌ especially with all of the wax dummies and foggy city backdrops. If you have the ability to watch movies with the added dimension, then you’ll certainly want to pick this up. They also have a Blu-ray of the Oscar-winning, Mickey Rooney/Judy Ga rla nd musical, Strike Up the Band (1940). It follows the pair competing in a highschool band contest. YOU KNOW, FOR KIDS! There isn’t much for children this week, with the exception of a couple of straight-to-disc kid’s titles. Monster Class Under the Sea ON THE TUBE! And here are a couple of TV shows you can now pick up on disc. Pe nnywor th: Sea son 1 (Warner Archive) South Park: Season 23 V ISIT: W W W. CINEMASTANCE.COM

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Gallup Sun • Friday June 26, 2020

17

JERRY BROWN | FROM PAGE 1 “I decided to stick around a nd took two 2D a nd 4D classes,” he said. “I have two Associate of Fine Arts degrees.” During that time Brown said he met a lot of Native and non-Native professors. “I started to do a lot of mixed media. Did an independent,” he said. On the topic of becoming a muralist, Brown said, “Never thought of that. Never thought I was going to be that.” How d id he become a muralist? “I have no idea,” Brown said. Brown said he bid to do a mural on the south side of McKinley Courthouse and the rotunda. Ultimately he created a

20’x25’ mural, entitled Window on the outside wall there. It took him two years of preparation, much of that looking for an architect, and 14 days to install the work made of 13” porcelain tile and 6” (See bottom of page 19). He created a Ga l lup Ve t e r a n s Mu r a l o n Courthouse Square. (See top of page 19). Brown says his connection with activism came as a result of living in Minnesota. His wife was a librarian at the Correctional Facility in Lino Lakes and he worked at the Target that was looted in the protests following the killing of George Floyd in Minneapolis. The two decided Minnesota no longer felt like home, so they moved back to the red

rocks a nd sunsets of the Southwest. He watched the protests after Floyd died. A few weeks into the protests, he got a call from a member of Black Lives Matter asking him to get involved as an artist. Originally Brown thought he would perhaps do a single letter of the street design. But he worked with city officials and the mayor and volunteers who chalked out the letters. He placed a hummingbird in the middle. The hummingbird has particular significance to Brown, who was visited in a dream by a South American giant hummingbird, which started him on a series of works. He considers the hummingbird good luck.

Brow n i s ent hu sia st ic about the idea of doing more activist art.

JERRY BROWN | SEE PAGE 19

A chalk design celebrating Juneteenth, created by volunteers in downtown Gallup June 19. Photo Credit: Kara Q. Smith

Demonstrators supporting Black Lives Matter in Native languages June 19 in Gallup. Photo Credit: Kara Q. Smith

Volunteers paint a giant mural that reads “Disarm Racism” on Coal Avenue in downtown Gallup June 19. Photo Credit: Cable Hoover

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Chalk design on sidewalk expresses support for Black Lives Matter in multiple languages June 19 in Gallup. Photo Credit: Kara Q. Smith NEWS

JERRY BROWN | FROM PAGE 18 “ Ye s ,” h e s a i d w i t h

emphasis. “I like it. I love it … It’s almost amazing, Gallupians coming together in our town. It makes me feel good for other

people to come out. “I’m part of something that is moving forward towards healing and diversity and it

just goes on. We’re doing it for the elders,” he added. Jerry Brown’s work can be seen at: facebook.com/

jerrybrownart/ Clarence Giese’s work can be seen at: clarencegiese.com

A Jerry Brown mural honoring veterans was installed at Courthouse Square in Gallup. Photo Credit: JerryBrownArt.com

Ace Chris Gonzales, Acevedoright, drawsand a chalk Libbyoutline Gonzales of awork giantonstreet a giant mural street on mural Coal Avenue on Coalin downtown Avenue inGallup downtown June Gallup 19. Photo June Credit: 19. Photo Credit: Cable Hoover Cable Hoover

Jerry Brown’s mural of porcelain tile and glass at the McKinley County Courthouse. The artist said it took two years of preparation and 14 days to install. Photo Credit: JerryBrownArt.com

Libby Gonzales and Ace Gonzales work on a giant street mural on Coal Avenue in downtown Gallup June 19. Photo Credit: Cable Hoover

NEWS

Gallup Sun • Friday June 26, 2020

19

SPECIAL SESSION | FROM PAGE 11 Cibola, Socorro, Valencia,’s Unemployment Calculation Changes Bill (SB13), which as of June 24, was in the Senate Committees Committee. The bill ad justs the manner in which benefits paid to unemployed individuals shall be charged to their employers. The compa n ion bill i n the house has fi ve sponsors, including: Representatives Rod Montoya, R-San Juan, Patricio Ruiloba, D-Bernalillo, Randal S. Crowder, R-Curry, William “Bill” R. Rehm, R-Bernalillo, a nd Ca nd ie G. Sweet ser, D-Grant, Hidalgo, Luna. - In the House, the New Mexico Civil Rights Commission Bill, (HB5) is sponsored by Representatives Br ia n Egol f, D - Sa nt a Fe, Karen C. Bash, D-Bernalillo, and Senator Gerald Ortiz y

WOW DINER | FROM PAGE 6 she owned in Grants, dating back to 1988. “I loved it. Stephanie and Bill were the best people to work for. She was more like a mother than a boss to us,” Gallegos said. “The job got me out of my comfort zone; I got to meet people from all over the world. It was like a home, we always made people feel like they were coming to their home,” she said. Gallegos said she felt like the restaurant’s shut down was going to happen, but in a way, she said she felt relief too, for

RODEO CANCELED | FROM PAGE 4 in the current circumstances, other city services would have to be put on hold to accommodate it, she added. Lastly, if the event proceeds in current circumstances, the Lodgers Tax and city’s General F u nd ca n not absorb t he potential losses that would be incurred as a result of reduced participation. In previous years, the rodeo

Pino, D-Bernalillo, creates the New Mexico Civil Rights Commission, providing recommendations on a private right of action for violations of state constitutional rights and providing recommendations for the termination or limitation of qualified immunity, declaring an emergency and requiring a report by Nov. 15. This bill passed the house 53-17 and passed the senate 32-9 The S m a l l B u sin e ss R ecove r y Act of 2020 (SB3) sponsored by Senators Jacob Candelaria, D-Bernalillo, John M. Sapien, D -Ber na l i l lo, Sa ndova l, Sa nder Rue, R-Ber na lillo, and Representatives Daymon Ely, D-Bernalillo, Sandoval, a nd Ma r ia n Matthews, D -Ber n a l i l lo crea t e s t he Small Business Recover y Loan Fund, providing small business recovery loans and

provides for the investment of the severance tax permanent fund in certain loans. It passed 26-11 in the senate and passed 59-5 in the house. Representative Patricia A. Lundstrom, D-McKinley, San Juan, introduced House Bill 1, the General Appropriation Act Sanding which reduces appropriations for Fiscal Years 2020 and 2021, changing certain requirements provided for in Laws 2020, Chapter 83 and Laws 2019, Section 271; reducing operating budgets and appropriating legislative cash balances for the expenses of the 54th legislature, as well as extending the expenditure period for an appropriation for census outreach. The bill passed the house 46-24 and passed the senate 30-12. - Te m p o r a r y e le c t io n ch a nge s were a dd re s sed in Senate Bill 4 by

representatives Daniel A. IveySoto, D-Bernallilo, Gabriel R a mos, D - Cat ron, Gra nt , Socorro, and senators Linda M. Trujillo, D-Santa Fe, D. Wonda Johnson, McKinley, San Juan. This bill provides temporary procedures for how the 2020 general election will be conducted. It creates a legislative electoral health and safety task force to authorize emergency actions by the secretary of state under certain conditions. Among the things it calls for is a polling place located on Indian nation, Tribal or Pueblo land not to be closed or consolidated with other polling locations. Days and times of voting shall not be modified without the written agreement of the Indian nation, tribe or pueblo where the polling location is situated. The bill passed the senate

40-2. It died in the house on June 20. A motion to reconsider it was adopted and later that day it passed the house 44-26. S e n a t e P r e s ide nt a nd Lieutenant Governor Howie Morales thanked the legislators for balancing the state budget and remaining solvent. “We met the daunting challenge of an estimated $2 billion shortfall in our revenues. We created the means to get critical, timely fi nancial help to small businesses and our local governments hit hard by coronavirus-driven events,” Morales said. “We moved to meet the pressing human rights challenge of this raw moment in time in our society, by laying the foundation to transform outdated law enforcement policies in New Mexico. I am par ticularly proud of this important work,” he added.

Rivard, because she knew she was working so much. “It was a big shock losing my job. I wasn’t really prepared to think about doing something else, but keeping all options open,” Gallegos said. “It was my home away from home. I was there all the time, I loved working for Stephanie.” Gallegos will miss the customers, along with the lobster pasta, 16-oz ribs, fish tacos, and pan-fried trout from the diner. Gallegos is keeping her options open and looking for work in cashiering, or she says she may go back to school. Gallegos praised Rivard for being there for her beyond the

duties at the diner. “She’s my guardian angel. She saved my life by sending me to rehab, and thankfully, I am going to have five years sober,” Gallegos said. “ ... I love her with all my heart. Bill is also my guardian angel.” Another former employee of the diner, Jason Trujillo, worked 10 years for Rivard. “I have to say, it was completely understandable yet it was a mix of shock, sadness, and concern for our regular daily clientele,” Trujillo said of fi nding out about the restaurant closing. Trujillo called the diner a place where family and friends could meet up.

“Everyone knew that even the pickiest eaters could enjoy a delicious meal customized to their liking, at reasonable prices,” Trujillo said. “What made the dining experience so special was the fact that Stephanie would make it a point to personally greet and interact with every guest. She personified the art of customer service and quality dining,” he added. Trujillo said he stayed on at the diner for as long as he did because he enjoyed the customers. Trujillo only had praise for the work of his former boss. “Steph has humbly helped this community in more ways

than we can even imagine. I have only ever seen her give sincerely and wholeheartedly, sometimes sacrificing sleep, or sitting and enjoying a longer lunch with her family and friends, she would smile in hope that she was able to help,” Trujillo said. Currently, the restaurant sits vacant. However, there are plans in store for the diner. “The new owner, Andy from Spicy Bite, (another Milan restaurant), has purchased the diner, and plans to reopen within a week or so,” according to the Wow Diner website. Attempts to contact the new owner for this story were unsuccessful.

was able to offset the costs through participation fees, but the risk of reduced participation is higher because of fewer travelers and the event potentially taking place early in a new school year. To date, the event expend it u re s t ot a led ju st over $80,230 from the Genera l Fund and the Lodgers Tax. This number included a contract with event organizer Walt Eddy, refunds for the 2019 rodeo, and other various

fees. Dist. 3 Councilor Yogash Kumar suggested the council insert a cancellation clause into future event contracts to avoid being penalized as much in future circumstances. Mayor Louie Bonaguidi had the same thought. “It’s a good point, and we [have to] learn to learn the hard way,” Bonaguidi said. The City Council voted to cancel the rodeo with a 5-0 vote.

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CLASSIFIEDS 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 June 24, 2020 McKinley County is now accepting applications for the following positions:

2. Pay is $9 hr. Call Karen Baca at (505) 287-5090 *** A hotel in Gallup seeks a worker for housekeeping/ laundry duties. Call Patricia: (505) 879-7600 MOBILE HOMES FOR RENT Mobile Homes for Rent in Mentmore (Gallup Area) 3-bedroom 2 bath $700 utilities not included Please call 714-788-2774 ***

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Double Wide Mobile Home for rent 2 bedrooms/ 2 bath Gallup $800.00 Monthly Call Liz 505-879-1807 LEGAL/PUBLIC NOTICES Thirteenth Judicial District Court County of Cibola State of New Mexico In the Matter of the Estate of CLARA MOZELLE BOWMAN, Deceased No. D-1333-PB-2020-00009

The Community Pantry in Grants is looking to hire a temporary part-time worker, 20 hours a week: Tues., Wed., and Thurs. Job runs until Oct.

WILLIAM ELDON GIBSON has been appointed Personal Representatives of the Estate of CLARA MOZELL BOWMAN,

deceased. All persons having claims against this estate are required to present their claims within four (4) months after the date of the first publication of this Notice or the claims will be forever barred. Claims must be presented either to the Personal Representative at the offices of Mason & Isaacson, P.A., 104 East Aztec Avenue, Gallup, New Mexico 87301, attorneys for the Personal Representative, or filed with the District Court of Cibola County, New Mexico.

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WILLIAM ELDON GIBSON MASON & ISAACSON, P.A. James J. Mason Attorneys for Personal Representatives 104 East Aztec Avenue Gallup, New Mexico 87301 (505) 722-4463 Published: The Gallup Sun June 12, 2020 June 19, 2020 June 26, 2020

The sale or disposition of the above property will be held on Tuesday, the 7th of July 2020, at the hour of 10:00 am at AZTEC SELF STORAGE 261 North 491, Gallup, New Mexico. The property can be viewed at 10:00 am the day of the sale. The property is subject to the Occupant redeeming the lien prior to the sale. This Notice is being published once a week for two (2) consecutive weeks.

Dated the 19th Day of June, 2020 By: /S/Charles Long, President Board of Education Gallup-McKinley County School District No. 1 BID ISSUE DATE: June 19, 2020 PUBLICATION DATE: June 26, 2020 (Gallup Sun) June 28, 2020 (Albuquerque Journal)

*** NOTICE OF SALE NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN, pursuant to the Self-Service Storage Lien Act of the State of New Mexico, Section 48-117, that the following personal property will be sold or otherwise disposed of in order to satisfy a lien for delinquent rent and other related charges. The personal property is located at Aztec Self Storage, 261 North Highway 491, Gallup, New Mexico.

Description of Property: Couch, chairs, filing cabinets, misc boxes.. Unit Number: 118 Name and Last Known Address of Occupant: SHIRLEY SAM P.O. Box 174 CHAMBERS, AZ 86502 Description of Property: Entertainment shelves/ center, bed, coffee table, chairs, microwave, household goods

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Unit Number: 114 Name and Last Known Address of Occupant: BARBARA YAZZIE P.O. Box 1795 FRUITLAND, NM 87416

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Published: The Gallup Sun June 26, 2020 July 3, 2020

*** LEGAL NOTICE REQUEST FOR PROPOSALS

*** 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: SOLID WASTE DISPOSAL SERVICES Price Agreement, Multi-Year No. ITB-2020-417RB Commodity Code(s): 96871 As more particularly set out in the bid documents, copies of which may be obtained by downloading from the GallupMcKinley County Schools eBidding platform website https://gmcs.bonfirehub.com/ portal Sealed proposals for such will be received until 2:00 P.M. (LOCAL TIME) on, July 14, 2020. FAX and HARDCOPY PROPOSALS will NOT be accepted. Offerors will not be able to upload proposals or documents after the specified CLOSING date and time.

Public Notice is hereby provided that the GallupMcKinley County Schools is accepting competitive sealed proposals for: SECURITY SERVICES RFP-2020-416KC Commodity Code(s): 99046 As more particularly set out in the RFP documents, copies of which may be obtained by downloading from the Gallup-McKinley County Schools eBidding platform website https://gmcs. bonfirehub.com/portal/?tab= openOpportunities Sealed proposals for such will be received until 2:00 P.M. (LOCAL TIME) on, July 16, 2020 FAX, EMAIL and HARDCOPY PROPOSALS will NOT be accepted. Offerors will not be able to upload proposals or documents after the specified CLOSING date and time. The Gallup-McKinley County

CLASSIFIEDS | SEE PAGE 22

Gallup Sun • Friday June 26, 2020

21

ITB-2020-418KC

CLASSIFIEDS | FROM PAGE 21 School Board of Education reserves the right to reject any or all proposals, waive any formalities or minor inconsistencies, and/or cancel this solicitation in its entirety. Dated the 18th Day of June 2020 By: /S/ Charles Long, President Board of Education Gallup-McKinley County School District No. 1 RFP ISSUE DATE: June 18, 2020 Published: June 26, 2020 *** 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: WELDING GASES SUPPLIES Price Agreement

NIGP Commodity Code(s): 895, 43027, 43032, 43036, 43092 As more particularly set out in the BID documents, copies of which may be obtained by downloading from the GallupMcKinley County School Bonfire eBidding website: https://gmcs.bonfirehub.com/ portal/ Sealed bids for such will be received at the Procurement Office until 2:00 PM (MOUNTAIN TIME) on July 9, 2020. FAX, EMAIL, or HARDCOPY PROPOSALS shall NOT be accepted. Offerors will not be able to upload bids or documents after the specified CLOSING date and time. Public Bid Opening shall be conducted through online meeting software. Any person or vendor interested in attending the public opening of sealed bids shall email a request to the Procurement Manager no less than 24 hours prior to the submission deadline.

& Dated the 18th Day of June, 2020

By: /S/Charles Long, President Board of Education Gallup-McKinley County School District No. 1 BID ISSUE DATE: June 18, 2020 Published: June 26, 2020 *** LEGAL NOTICE REQUEST FOR PROPOSALS Public Notice is hereby provided that the GallupMcKinley County Schools is accepting competitive sealed proposals for: WEBSITE DESIGN DEVELOPMENT RFP-2021-01KC

&

Commodity Code(s): 91596 As more particularly set out in the RFP documents, copies of which may be obtained by downloading from the Gallup-McKinley County Schools eBidding platform website https://gmcs. bonfirehub.com/portal/?tab= openOpportunities Sealed proposals for such will be received until 2:00 P.M. (LOCAL TIME) on, July 23, 2020. FAX, EMAIL and HARDCOPY PROPOSALS will NOT be accepted. Offerors

CLASSIFIEDS Read online at gallupsun.com will not be able to upload proposals or documents after the specified CLOSING date and time.

RFP ISSUE DATE: June 24, 2020

The Gallup-McKinley County School Board of Education reserves the right to reject any or all proposals, waive any formalities or minor inconsistencies, and/or cancel this solicitation in its entirety.

***

Dated the 24th Day of June 2020 By: /S/ Charles Long, President Board of Education Gallup-McKinley County School District No. 1

Published: June 26, 2020

PUBLIC NOTICE is hereby given that the County of McKinley will receive competitive sealed bids for IFB #2020-10 Basecourse for County Land Areas A, C, & E until Thursday, July 9, 2020 at 2:00 P.M., Local Time, at which time bids will be opened and publicly read aloud in the County Commission Chambers, and

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RMCHCS COVID-19 DRIVE-UP TESTING

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available for viewing or can be downloaded from: www. gallupnm.gov/bids.

CLASSIFIEDS | FROM PAGE 22

CWSRF Project CWSRF-065

No.

Executive Order No. 11246, as amended.

as more particularly set out in the specifications, copies for such may be obtained from the Procurement Department, 207 West Hill Street, Gallup, New Mexico, 87301, or McKinley County website: www. co.mckinley.nm.us. McKinley County reserves the right to accept or reject any or all bids and to waive informalities. For more information please contact Michelle Esquibel at (505) 722-3868, Ext. 1076. The Procurement Code, Sections 13-1-28 Through 13-1-199, 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.

As more particularly set out in the RFP documents, copies of which may be obtained from the City of Gallup Purchasing Division, 110 W. Aztec Ave., Gallup, New Mexico 87301; or contact Frances Rodriguez, Purchasing Director at (505) 863-1334 or email frodriguez@ gallupnm.gov. Copies are available for viewing or can be downloaded from: www. gallupnm.gov/bids

The Offeror must make a good faith effort to solicit and hire Disadvantaged Business subcontractors and suppliers to meet the goals outlined in EPA XP-215. A good faith effort requires that the Offeror: 1) Complete the affirmative steps outlined in XP-215, 2) Submit XP-215 with the proposal, 3) Submit with the proposal proof that affirmative steps have been taken and this should include copies of advertisements and letters of solicitation. A Proposal that omits XP-215 or does not support that a good faith effort was made will be considered non-responsive and the Proposal rejected.

Sealed bids for such will be received at the Office of the Purchasing Department until 2:00 P.M. (LOCAL TIME) on July 15, 2020 when bids will be opened and read aloud in the City Hall Purchasing Conference Room. Envelopes are to be sealed and plainly marked with the Formal Bid Number. NO FAXED OR ELECTRONICALLY TRANSMITTED BIDS will be accepted, and proposals submitted after the specified date and time will not be considered and will be returned unopened.

Dated this 24th day of June 2020

Dated this 24th day of June 2020

By: /S/ Mayor

By: /S/ Louie Bonaguidi, Mayor Classified Legal Column: Gallup Sun

DATED this 26th day of November 2019 BY:/s/ Bill Lee Chairman, Board of Commissioners PUBLISHED: Friday, June 26, 2020 The Gallup Sun

Sealed proposals for such will be received at the Office of the Purchasing Department until 2:00 P.M. (LOCAL TIME) on July 21, 2020 when proposals will be received in the City Hall Purchasing Conference Room. Envelopes are to be sealed and plainly marked with the RFP Number. NO FAXED OR ELECTRONICALLY TRANSMITTED PROPOSALS will be accepted, and proposals submitted after the specified date and time will not be considered and will be returned unopened.

Louie

Bonaguidi,

Classified Legal Column: Gallup Sun Publishing Date: Friday June 26, 2020

Publishing Date: June 26, 2020

Friday,

*** *** NOTICE OF REQUEST FOR PROPOSALS CITY OF GALLUP, NEW MEXICO Request for Proposals (RFP) NO. 2020/2021/01/P Qualifications-based competitive sealed proposals for Professional Engineering Services will be received by the Contracting Agency, City of Gallup for RFP No. 2020/2021/01/P. The Contracting Agency is requesting proposals for:

FOR PROJECT: WASTEWATER PLANT AND COLLECTION SYSTEM IMPROVEMENTS CALENDAR

This project is wholly or partially funded with United States Environmental Protection Agency funds, and therefore must comply with all federal cross cutter requirements. Neither the United States nor its department’s agencies or employees is or will be party to this invitation for bids or any resulting contract. This procurement will be subject to regulations contained in Uniform Administrative Requirements, Cost Principles and Audit Requirements, 2 CFR Part 200 and 1500. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex or national origin. Bidders on this work will be required to comply with the President’s

*** ADVERTISEMENT BIDS

FOR

CITY OF GALLUP, NEW MEXICO FORMAL BID NO. 2024 Public notice is hereby given that the City of Gallup, New Mexico, desires to purchase the following: Base Course, Contract

Multi-Term

As more particularly set out in the Bid documents , copies of which may be obtained from the City of Gallup Purchasing Division, 110 W. Aztec Ave., Gallup, New Mexico 87301; or contact Frances Rodriguez, Purchasing Director at (505) 863-1334. Copies are

24 hours a day, 7 days a week; inside RMCHCS by the Emergency Admissions area.

LEGAL NOTICE PUBLIC NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that the City of Gallup Planning and Zoning Commission will consider the following action at its regular meeting to be held virtually on Wednesday, July 8th, 2020. Item One will go before the City Council for final approval at its regular meeting to be held on July 28th, 2020. Both meetings will be held at 6 p.m. ITEM ONE: CASE # 2000300005: Request by Ryan Chavez on behalf of AVA, LLC and ABA Land Ltd. Co., property owners and Kevin McCarthy on behalf of Love’s Travel Stops & Country Stores, Inc., property owner, for Final Plat approval

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.

of a Minor Subdivision; Replat No. 1 of Love Subdivision containing 4.908 acres M/L and a Replat of 3 Unplatted Tracts of Land within a portion of the Ortega Annexation situated in the NE ¼ of Section 27 T15N, R19W and 1 Unplatted Tract of Land within a portion of the Mentmore Meadows Annexation situated in the SE ¼ of Section 22 T15N, R19W, N.M.P.M. containing a total of 16.0381 acres M/L. Also requesting for the City of Gallup to vacate three (3) easements within proposed Lots 2 and 3; a 10’ wide, 915.15’ long public utility easement, a 10’ wide, 743.68’ long public utility easement and a 30’ wide, 122’ long public utility and access easement. The properties are located at 3360, 3366B and 3380 West Historic Highway 66 and 2 vacant properties North of 3366B West Historic Highway 66; containing a total of 20.9461 acres M/L. In accordance with the public health order issued by the New Mexico Department of Health, the meeting will be physically closed to the public; however, it will be accessible to the public via the following technology service: Facebook Live Stream through the City of Gallup’s Facebook page: https://www. facebook.com/CityOfGallup Members of the public may call in with questions and/or comments before or during the meeting at (505) 863-1240. Please leave your name and a return phone number. Copies of the Agenda are available on the City of Gallup’s website at: https://www. gallupnm.gov/agendacenter. City of Gallup, McKinley County, New Mexico By: /S/ Alfred Abeita, City Clerk PUBLISH: 26 June 2020

Gallup Sun • Friday June 26, 2020

23

Complete your census today. COUNT EVERY PERSON IN YOUR HOUSE. This includes babies, relatives, roommates, and anyone else living in your home — even those who aren’t related to you.

EVERY CHILD COUNTS.

Online: 2020census.gov Phone: (844) 330-2020 24 Friday June 26, 2020 • Gallup Sun

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