Gallup Sun • December 25, 2020 by gallupsun

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VOL 6 | ISSUE 300 | DECEMBER 25, 2020

Teacher of the month Page 12

More Holiday Pictures ...17

Nativity Coloring Page â&#x20AC;¦ 19

Friday December 25, 2020 â&#x20AC;¢ Gallup Sun

NEWS

Gallup Sun â&#x20AC;¢ Friday December 25, 2020

NEWS

LOCAL NEWS

Keeping the Downtown Gallup business district safe LEADERS FOCUS ON SOLUTIONS By Beth Blakeman Associate Editor

brainstorming group meeting t o i m pr ove t he qua lit y of life in Downtown Gallup, has been gather ing ever y couple of we ek s s i nc e O c t o b e r t o address some of the city’s more stubborn challenges. F ra ncis Bee, executive director of the Gallup Business Improvement Distr ict is one member of the group. He talked to the Gallup Sun, Dec. 15 about Gallup’s downtown struggles with the numerous people who visit to do business and find themselves unable to get home. “We don’t have enoug h police to accommodate the 20,000 to 30,000 people who come here to do their shopping,” he said.

Francis Bee, director of the Gallup Business Improvement District, member of the Downtown Safety and Security Committee brainstorming group. File Photo “Our downtown is ver y small,” he pointed out. “So if you have half a dozen panhandlers in one small space, it seems like a big problem.” Bee said there have been burglaries of closed stores dur ing the COV ID -19 pa ndem ic. “Not a whole lot ,” he sa id. “But to people in Gallup, even one break-in is a major catastrophe.” A lot of things can happen

The top of 218 W. Coal Ave. served as a camp for transients in the fall of 2020 until the Gallup Fire Department was notiﬁed. Appliances for cooking and heating were employed on the roof. Photo Credit: Gallup Fire Department when people come to town and can’t get home he said. The city had a homeless camp atop the Deluxe Barber Shop at 218 W. Coal Ave. In addition to the ca mp, the people staying on top of the business were using the roof of the Barry Klopfer law firm at 224 W. Coal Ave. to climb up to the camp. K a ra Sm ith, execut ive d i rector of Ga l lup MainStreet Arts & Cultural District said people staying at the camp were building fires on the roof before the G a l lu p F i r e D e p a r t me nt stepped in. Sm ith ta lked about other issues that affect the city, including the reduced capacity at the Na Nizhoozhi Center during the COVID-19 pandemic. A not her lo c a t ion t h a t used to prov ide space for people in Ga llup’s streets wa s t he L ex i ng ton Hotel, wh ich wa s t u r ned i nt o a t r a n s it ion a l lo c a t ion for the homeless. Bee said the

historic site on Route 66 was purchased from the owner and sold to a foundation, but was closed two years ago. He said the plan to reopen the transitional center is one of t he succes ses of what h e c a l l s t h e t wo - m o n t h old “Downtown Safety and Security Committee” and the Gallup City Council. “ The cu r rent mayor secured funding to reopen that [location and the] council voted to accept the grant from t he gover n ment a nd open it up.” He wasn’t able to give an opening date, but said it would be soon. There is a lso a pla n to open a police substation on the walkway. In add ition to these changes, the group, which includes Bee, Smith, Mayor Louis Bonaguidi, District 1 City Councilwoman Linda Garcia, Gallup Police Chief Franklin Boyd and Captains Er i n Toa d len a -Pablo a nd Billy Padavich, is considering additional infrastructure

solutions they believe would mitigate a variety of downtow n activ ities, includ ing drug use, vandalism, and the creation of graffiti. One of those is increased l i g h t i n g , p a r t ic u l a r l y i n alleys, and setting up more cameras around the downtown area. Smith said, “Some of the action might fall on business owners.” But she added that some of the responsibility would be on the city. She a l so poi nt ed t o a safety tip sheet that has been distributed to business owners which suggests what to do when faced with a problem such as vandalism, discovering someone camped out in front of your business, or someone being threatened, or put in harm’s way. Bee sa id, “We’re tr y ing to give them [Gallup business owners] the tools they need to feel sa fe a nd feel empowered.” The next meeting will be in early January.

WHAT’S INSIDE …

8 4

BEN RAY LUJAN gets his COVID vaccine

11 13 15 20 MONARCH BUTTERFLIES still need protection

Friday December 25, 2020 • Gallup Sun

GRANTS FOOD PANTRY benefits from high school competition

'NEWS OF THE WORLD' Tom Hanks goes Western

JONATHAN NEZ overjoyed about Interior Secy. selection NEWS

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Gallup Sun • Friday December 25, 2020

12/9/20 4:10 PM

Legal nonproﬁt seeks to help prisoners in Gallup, across state By Kevin Opsahl Sun Correspondent

he New Mex ico Prison & Jail Project announced its intention to sue the New Mex ico Cor rect ion s D e p a r t m e n t fo r a l le ge d

Gallup Sun Publishing, LLC Publisher/Editor Babette Herrmann Accounts Representative Sherry Kauzlarich Associate Editor Beth Blakeman Circulation Manager Mandy Marks Editorial Asst./ Correspondent Kevin Opsahl Correspondent Dominic Aragon Photography Knifewing Segura Ana Hudgeons Ryan Hudgeons Cable Hoover On the Cover Display of elves, children, as Santa reads ‘Twas the Night Before Christmas. Photo by K. Segura 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: 1983 State Rd. 602 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.

v iol a t ion s of t he s t a t e’s Inspection of Public Records Ac t on t he s a me d ay it launched, Dec. 10. NMP&J Project was created to provide more lawyers to help the state’s prison population. The group’s first piece of litigation alleges the corrections department failed to follow IPRA, and asks for previously requested records, which include documentation on whether the agency made policy changes in determining what constitutes an exemption to public records. NMP&JP also wants $100 per day in damages from the day the nonprofit asked for the records until the date its request is fulfi lled. “It’s a very exciting day,” director Steve Allen said in a

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Friday December 25, 2020 • Gallup Sun

McKinley County Detention Center. Photo Credit: Courtesy of Steve Silversmith Zoom press conference. “We’re just getting off the ground.” The group currently consists of a steering committee of the state’s top attorneys and strategists, and Allen. Though it is a small group now, Allen said that even though there are no attorneys from Gallup or McKinley

County currently, he certainly welcomes them. “Right now, the four of us, that is our project,” Allen said. “We have a whole bunch of different projects in the works to extend our reach and as I mentioned, as we gain resources, we hope to hire more attorneys.”

Steve Allen, director of the New Mexico Prison & Jail Project. Photo Credit: Courtesy of Steve Allen

The Sun reached out to Gallup attorney David Jordan to see how he viewed the group. Jordan said he was not aware of it, but would be interested in joining.

NM PRISON & JAIL | SEE PAGE 17

NEWS

Gallup Sun â&#x20AC;¢ Friday December 25, 2020

Luján receives coronavirus vaccine Staff Reports

Leonard Footracer, 74, of Sanders, Ariz. died Dec. 10. He w a s pr e ce de d i n death by Billy Footracer, Sr. (Father), Eleanor Yazzie Footracer (Mother), Marvin Footracer (Brother), Stanley Mu r phy (Brot her), Elsie B a r b er (S i s t er), A l b er t Footracer (Son), Michelle Footracer (Daughter). He is survived by his wife: Cornelia Jane Footracer, Sons: Dw ight Footracer, Daughters Cornelia J. Brown, Corrina J. Brown, Kelsey F. Footracer. Brothers: Freddy Footracer, Billy Footracer, Jr., Alfred Footracer. Sisters: LaVale Footracer, Janice Murphy, Shirlene Murphy, Ivanna Murphy.

ASHINGTON, D.C. — Following the adv ice of the At tend ing Physician of the U.S. Congress, Congressman Ben Ray Lu ján, D-N.M., the U.S. House Assistant Speaker, received the first dose of the coronavirus vaccine. “This week I was pleased to see that health care workers were the fi rst to be vaccinated against COVID-19 in our state. As the fi rst New Mexicans [to] receive the coronavirus vaccine, I have a responsibility to lead by example and show my constituents that this vaccine is safe and effective. There is nothing to fear about getting vaccinated to protect yourself from this deadly disease,” Luján said. “However, vaccination is only one tool in our kit to combat the COVID-19 pandemic. “We must continue following the advice of public health experts by social distancing, wearing masks, and washing our hands frequently to protect ourselves, our loved ones, and our communities.” Luján joins a growing list of Members of Congress from both parties to receive the COVID-19 vaccine at the behest of the Office of the Attending Physician. In a letter to lawmakers earlier this week,

OBITUARY

U. S. Rep. Ben Ray Luján, D-N.M., rolls up his sleeve for a COVID-19 vaccine. Photo Credit: Courtesy U. S. House of Representatives Attending Physician Brian Monahan wrote, “My recommendation to you is absolutely unequivocal: There is no reason why you should defer receiving this vaccine.”

Leonard Footracer The family will receive no family and friends, due to COVID-19. The funeral service will be held at the grave site only, due to COVID-19. Interment/ Entombment Houck Community Cemetery. Memor ia ls may be made to The Leona rd Footracer Memorial Fund on GoFundMe.

Gov. Lujan Grisham ﬁ lls Supreme Court vacancy Staff Reports

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Friday December 25, 2020 • Gallup Sun

A N TA F E — G ov. Michelle Lujan Grisham has appointed Julie J. Vargas to the state Supreme Court, closing the vacancy left by the Honorable Justice Judith K. Nakamura, who retired Dec. 1. “Judge Vargas has demonstrated her quality as a consistent and conscientious jurist,” Lujan Grisham said. “She is a fair, trustworthy and thoughtful representative of New Mexico’s judicial system, and I know New Mexico will benefit from her service now as a justice.” Vargas has ser ved as a judge on the New Mexico Court of Appeals since her election in 2016, reviewing District Court decisions and drafting opinions, in addition to evaluating court performance measures and implementing a plan to eliminate a case backlog. Prior to her time on the bench, she worked in private practice, including more than 20 years at Hunt & Davis, an

Judge Julie J. Vargas Albuquerque firm. She has ser ved as co-chair of the Advisory Committee of the Code of Judicial Conduct since 2018 and also as an adjunct professor at the University of New Mexico School of Law. An Albuquerque native, Va r ga s e a r ne d a ba che lor’s degree in history and English literature from Brown University in Providence, R.I., and her law degree from the University of New Mexico. She was admitted to the New Mexico bar in 1993. The gover nor selected Vargas from the list of candidates provided by the Judicial Nominating Commission after conducting interviews. NEWS

Gallup Sun â&#x20AC;¢ Friday December 25, 2020

NEWS

HEALTH & ENVIRONMENT

Earthweek: Diary of a Changing World

By Steve Newman

Week ending Friday, December 11, 2020 La Niña Persists U. S . for e c a s t e r s predict there is a 95% cha nce t he cu r rent moderate La Niña episode will prevail until at least March, triggering a unique set of global weather shifts. They add there is a chance it will peak in the strong range dur ing Ja nua r y. W hile El Niños typically last just one year, La Niñas often fade, then redevelop the following year. Australian meteorologists say the ocean-cooling across the tropical Pacific can probably be linked to a cyclone-like storm that was lashing the coast of Queensland in mid-December. The deepening climate crisis is also said to be a factor in that storm and accompanying floods.

Earthquakes At least nine light tremors rattled residents in parts of Wichita,

delicate process. It took a whole day just to move one giraffe, with the barge taking at least two hours to get to the mainland,” Jackson Komen, a warden for the Kenya Wildlife Service in Baringo said. “The remaining, including some pregnant females, will be moved a little later,” Komen added.

-68° Oimyakon, Siberia

4.6 4.4

5.5

3.0 3.5 4.6

Yasa

Kansas, for a second week without infl icting damage. • E a r t h move ments were also felt in the San Francisco Bay Area, Hawaii’s Big Island, northeastern Japan, India’s Andaman and Nicobar Islands, southeastern Pakistan and the Russian republic of Chechnya.

White Penguin The Galapagos National Park reports a white penguin that appears to have a rare genetic condition is living along the northern coast of

+111° Rivadavia, Salta, Argentina

Zazu

Roman Invasion

Isabela Island. Park scientists say the leucism responsible for the white appearance of the Galapagos penguin differs from albinism because the bird has normal eye color.

Etna Eruption The ﬁrst penguin ever seen in the Galapagos Islands with leucism, which makes it appear white, was spotted by wildlife enthusiasts. Photo Credit: Galapagos National Park

Christmas Eve Service, 7 pm

Sicily’s Mount Etna produced a dramatic and colorful eruption that coated parts of nearby Catanian villages with ash. Glowing lava spewed from the mountain’s southeastern fl anks, illuminating the area during an overnight eruption that lasted several hours. One lava fountain appeared to shoot up almost 300 feet above the summit at the peak of the eruption. Residents the following morning had to wash the volcanic debris from their cars, streets and balconies.

R ome’s icon ic umbrella pine trees are under siege from a tiny insect known as the pine tortoise scale. Originally from North America, the invasive Toumeyella parvicornis has an oval shell that makes it look like a tortoise. It fi rst appeared in Naples to the south five years ago, ravaging that city’s stone pines. Agronomists say it can kill trees within just two or three years by operating like a vampire, sucking sap then coating trees with a fungus that blocks photosynthesis. They are looking at natural predators to control the infestation since it is not practical to use pesticides in the bustling Italian capital. “In Europe, our pines have never seen this insect and have no defense mechanism,” entomologist Antonio Garonna said.

Tropical Cyclones

First Baptist Church 2112 College Drive, Gallup, NM (505) 722-4401 www.fbcgallup.com

Towering Relocation T wo of eig ht giraffes marooned on an island in Kenya’s Great Rift Valley were very carefully moved by barge to a new home where they will be free to roam. Rising lakes have stranded giraffes and other wildlife on islands, forcing officials to launch relocation efforts. “Moving a giraffe is a

Category-5 Cyclone Yasa was predicted to cut a path through the heart of Fiji late in the week, triggering flash flooding as well as destroying structures and crops. • Tropical Storm Zazu raked Tonga with damaging winds and powerful thunderstorms. Dist. by: Andrews McMeel Syndication ©MMXX Earth Environment Service

Many lakes in Kenya’s Great Rift Valley have seen historic rises in water levels during the past decade, but the trend was accelerated by heavy rains in 2019. Photo Credit: Ami Vitale/Save Giraﬀes Now

Friday December 25, 2020 • Gallup Sun

HEALTH & ENVIRONMENT

Environmental briefs FROM THE CENTER FOR BIOLOGICAL DIVERSITY AND ITS NEWSLETTER ENDANGERED EARTH WA I T L I ST E D FOR PROTECTION The U.S. Fish and Wildlife ServiceÂ announced Â Dec. 15 that Endangered Species Act protection for monarchs is â&#x20AC;&#x153;warranted, but precluded.â&#x20AC;? That puts the butterflies in a bureaucratic limbo where they get no protection.

show a decline of 85 percent for the eastern U.S. population and 99 percent for monarchs west of the Rockies â&#x20AC;&#x201D; both well below the thresholds at which their annual migrations could collapse.Â â&#x20AC;&#x153;Not only are monarchs beautiful, but they play important

roles in nature and culture, and their migrations are jaw-dropping,â&#x20AC;? the Centerâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Tierra Curry said. â&#x20AC;&#x153;We owe them and future generations an all-in commitment to their recovery.â&#x20AC;?

Dine Local Restaurant Guide

Steamboat Rock in Dinosaur National Monument. Photo Credit: Arby Reed JUDGE HALTS PLAN TO FRACK 60,000 ACRES IN UTAH Thanks to a lawsuit by the Center for Biological Diversity and its allies,Â on Dec. 11 a judge overturnedÂ the Trump Administrationâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s plan to lease out more than 60,000 acres of public land for fracking in northern Utahâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Uintah Basin, including areas near Dinosaur National Monument. â&#x20AC;&#x153;This is a strong rebuke of Trumpâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s disastrous fracking frenzy across our public lands, which is destroying the climate, wildlife and frontline communities,â&#x20AC;? the Centerâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Taylor McKinnon said. â&#x20AC;&#x153;President-elect Bidenâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s ban on new federal fossil fuel leasing canâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t come soon enough.â&#x20AC;?

TheÂ iconic black-and-orange pollinatorsÂ are in drastic decline because of pesticides, climate change and other threats, which is why in 2014 the Center for Biological Diversity and its allies petitioned to have them listed as â&#x20AC;&#x153;threatenedâ&#x20AC;? under the Act. The most recent population counts

A monarch butterďŹ&#x201A;y, which was given â&#x20AC;&#x153;warranted, but precludedâ&#x20AC;? protection by the Endangered Species Act Dec. 15. Photo Credit: Lee JaďŹ&#x20AC;e

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COMMUNITY

Teaching outside the box INDIAN HILLS’ MELANIE VAN DORP UTILIZES CLASSROOM DONATIONS IN COVID-19 ERA By Kevin Opsahl Sun Correspondent

ach month, Camille’s Sidewalk Cafe recognizes one loca l teacher within the Gallup area for his or her determination to help students go above and beyond. Prospective teachers are nominated by students who feel they deserve to be recognized. Melanie Van Dorp, a third grade teacher at Indian Hills Elementary School in Gallup, is December’s pick. She spoke to the Gallup Sun about her upbringing, her career path and teaching style. EARLY LIFE Van Dorp is a native of Canada, where she grew up in Stony Mountain, Manitoba.

She considered herself motivated and a hard-worker when it came to tending the family farm. But school wasn’t easy for Van Dorp because, in her view, the teachers never “thought outside of the box.” “I think I would have strived a lot more with different teaching styles,” she said. The exception to all of them was her 5th grade teacher, who had multiple animals in the classroom, including two rats who had 21 babies. “He made school a little bit more exciting,” Van Dorp said. “I remember that teacher trying to reach out to me.” When none of her other teachers did, she thought, “One day I’m going to be a teacher and I’m going to do things differently.”

306 S 2nd St Gallup, NM 87301

GETTING INTO TEACHING After a stint at University of Manitoba, Van Dorp transferred to Dordt University, a liberal arts college in Sioux Center, Iowa. “It was amazing to me when I was passionate about becoming a teacher that classes just became that much easier to me. Something clicked,” she said. Van Dorp graduated with a double major in Elementary Education and Health and Physical Education. By that time, she had fallen in love with New Mexico, where she had chosen to do her student teaching. It was because of the state’s red rock landscape, her students’ Navajo roots and the band of teachers — not to mention her own “adventurous spirit.”

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“Food is the ingredient that binds us together”-unkown 12

Friday December 25, 2020 • Gallup Sun

Bryanny Rich of Camille’s Sidewalk Café presents Mrs. Melanie Van Dorp her gift basket for the December Teacher of the Month Award for her work at Indian Hills Elementary School Dec. 18. Photo Credit: Mrs. Van Dorp, Bethany Silva “They call New Mexico ‘the Land of Enchantment,’ and I just kind of feel there’s something magical keeping me here,” Van Dorp said. VAN DORP’S CLASSROOM EXPERIENCE Va n Dor p ha s been at Indian Hills Elementary her entire career, teaching 1st and 5th grade before delving into 3rd. What’s special about that grade, Van Dorp said, is it is the perfect middle ground between the other two. Her classroom is an open space with wobble stools and pillows. The chairs even have bouncy bands across the legs to provide her students movement to help them focus on instruction and not feel tethered to a desk all day. But COVID-19 has changed all that. Indian Hills has gone to complete virtual instruction from home due to the number of coronavirus cases in the area, forcing Van Dorp to use her own creativity to provide instruction. That includes utilizing donorschoose.org, a public charity established to help teachers fund and make classroom projects a reality. When Van Dorp wanted to teach her students about different inventors, the donations of bubble gum, chocolate chip cookies and Ramen Noodles were crucial, so they could learn

about the people behind those creations. Van Dorp said Teacher of the Month is an honor that means a lot to her. “Sometimes, it’s exhausting. I feel like I go above and beyond,” Van Dorp said about teaching. “It’s nice to know that what I’m doing is making a difference in my students’ life and it motivates me to keep thinking outside the box.” James and Kimberley Rich said: “We have come to know of Melanie’s kindness and generosity since Camille’s first opened its doors. Mrs. Van Dorp has always embraced our café, our community and our children. Most people don’t realize that Mrs. Van Dorp was instrumental in launching the ArtsCrawl program on behalf of the Business Improvement District. Her enthusiasm is infectious and we can’t get enough of her warm personality. Melanie is a blessing to our community, to our children, and we are so grateful for her dedication to Gallup. “Thank you for everything you continue to do, you deserve all the recognition we can offer.” Interested in nominating your favorite teacher for Teacher of the Month? Conta ct Camille’s Sidewalk Cafe at (505)7225017 or stop by 306 S. Second St. in Gallup. COMMUNITY

Grants High School holds food collection contest GATHERS OVER 1,100 POUNDS OF FOOD IN ONE DAY By Dominic Aragon Sun Correspondent

R A NTS — The comp et it i o n : To deter m i ne wh ich Grants High School class could collect the most non-perishable foods in a twohour period on Dec. 16. The four classes at Grants

M r. W i d n e r ( p r i n c i p a l ) thought we could make this a class competition.” GHS principal Lane Widner sent an email to the school’s staff on Dec. 15, detailing the friendly competition. For two hours on Dec. 16 (1-3 pm), the GHS staff collected donations. Add it ion a l ly, t he GHS staffers handed out Pizza 9

Grants High teacher Sally Ann Gallegos and her three kids walk toward Grants High School to pick up donations for the Grants Food Pantry Dec. 16. Photo Credit: Dominic Aragon High — freshmen, sophomores, juniors, and seniors — competed for the top honors and a cash prize for their class. The beneficiary: Grants Community Pantry. GHS staff, students and parents were encouraged to bring donations to the school’s east side entrance. GHS staff helped get donations from the cars and placed the donations on and near tables that separated the four classes for the school. The event was spurred by the Grants High Anchors Club, a volunteer, community-service driven organization open to all grades at the school. GHS English teacher Sally Ann Gallegos has sponsored the group for seven years, helping coordinate fall and spring blood drives, and food drives for the community over the years. “It was defi nitely a group effor t. We threw the idea around of a food drive and a lot [the staff] felt blessed to still have our jobs,” Gallegos told the Gallup Sun. “We t houg ht we cou ld donate ourselves, and then COMMUNITY

coupons, compliments of the Grants business and a dental goody bag donated from the Acoma Health Center to all students who dropped off non-perishables.

instr uctional day on Dec. 16, the Grants High freshman class collected the most donations, although some of their competitors from the clo s e - s e cond s ophomor e class, half-seriously questioned the overall results. “I t h i n k it wa s go o d , hea lthy, clea n fun, where everybody benefi ted,” freshman class co-sponsor Mark Lowther said. “There were gigantic bags of beans and rice, people brought truckloads of stuff. I think this event, in the circumstances e s p e c i a l l y, w a s a g r e a t success.” Lowther was thankful for his students and their parents for helping the Class of 2024 win the competition, but also, for the support everyone showed for the good of the community. “I think there’s much more positive coming out of this than negative. You don’t have to look very far to find out what we’ve got to be grateful for,” Lowther said. “I’ve got great kids, great students, great people I work with, and we’ve just got to pray for the ones that are unemployed and pray for the

recorded 1,194 pounds of food donated from the Dec. 16 efforts. Exact figures were not

available from years’ past, but Widner said the food drive was the most successful in recent memory.

New Mexico

OF HIGH DRUG PRICES

THERE IS A CURE. TELL OUR LAWMAKERS TO LOWER Rx PRICES. We’re paying twice as much for prescription drugs than other countries. Many New Mexicans are struggling to afford the prescriptions they need—having to choose between buying groceries or their medications. And now with COVID-19, things have only gotten worse as more people lose their jobs. Unfair drug pricing is a life and death issue. That’s why AARP New Mexico is fighting for affordable prescription drugs. It’s time for New Mexico lawmakers to enact the Prescription

Grants High teacher Mark Lowther sits at his desk in his classroom. Lowther, a co-sponsor for the GHS freshmen class, helped coordinate with his students to earn the most donations. Photo Credit: Dominic Aragon “It was amazing to see our families drive up [and donate],” Widner said. “It was neat to give the kids something as they were giving, and neat to see them. “Kids were so happy to be able to come back to their school. Even though they didn’t get to come in, it was neat to have that rappor t between the staff and kids.” At the end of the

people who are hungry, and try to help them the best we can.” The next day, Gallegos and her three kids — Roman, J.J., and Sadie — helped load up the donations in their family van to take to the Grants Community Pantry. Gallegos said there were so many donations, it took three trips from the school to the pantry. Overall, the pa ntr y

Drug Affordability Board to evaluate high drug costs and set reasonable rates for consumers. Because the prices we’re paying are just too high.

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Gallup Sun • Friday December 25, 2020

New Mexico United donates equipment to Grants High School athletes By Dominic Aragon Sun Correspondent

RANTS — The Grants High School soccer team’s athletes received a donation from the New Mexico United professional soccer team Dec. 17. Through the team’s Somos Unidos Foundation, the United sent a crew in a United vinylwrapped van — including player David Estrada — to the high school to make a donation of soccer balls and backpacks to the boys’ and girls’ team athletes. “We know that Grants is taking care of their people this year, and sports, even though they can’t play in person, is still a huge part of people’s lives, and we want to support that,” Chanel Wiese, the executive director of the Somos Unidos Foundation told the Gallup Sun. Fans greeted the van as it

New Mexico United player David Estrada visits with Grants High student-athletes in front of Grants High School Dec. 17. Photo Credit: Dominic Aragon arrived outside the school’s east side entrance, just after 11 am. The van was parked in the school’s roundabout and one-by-one, student athletes parked in the designated areas, grabbed a backpack, walked in front of the van, and took photos with Estrada and Santa Claus.

Friday December 25, 2020 • Gallup Sun

O t her s t op s for t he tea m dur ing the week of Dec. 14 included schools in Albuquerque, Roswell, Santa Fe and T or C. With family connections at New Mexico United, assistant soccer coach Joe Garcia helped spearhead the event, reaching out to a niece who works in the United office.

Grants High principal Lane Widner wears a face mask and holds a soccer ball with Santa Claus in beard and protective eye gear at a Grants High event on Dec. 17. Photo Credit: Dominic Aragon “We were socially distanced and [this] was something the kids could look forward to,” soccer coach and GHS teacher Charles Lundstrom said. “It’s all about our kids.” Lundstrom was named the boy’s head coach in November. The fi rst-year head coach said the event was a morale booster for the athletes and the school. “We’ll bring [the United] back so we can get them on the field. They can show us some stuff. As a coach, you’re always wanting to learn. You’re always learning,” Lundstrom said.

In total, over 20 student-athletes benefited from the event. “We worked with the superintendent, Mr. Perez, to make sure that it was okay to do a drive-up event with limited interaction,” GHS Principal Lane Widner said. “Right now, in the state of New Mexico, there a re athletes that are struggling because they’re not having that tea m comrader y, not getting to practice. I think for our boys and girls soccer, it was an exciting event to get kids enthused,” he added.

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‘News of the World’ features excellent cast, great cinematography By Glenn Kay For the Sun

RATING:  OUT OF  RUNNING TIME: 118 MINUTES T h is feat u re f rom Universal Pictures opens Dec. 25 at operating cinemas. It will also be available for streaming on demand Jan. 15. While 2020 has been a quiet year for many of us, that certainly hasn’t been the case for Tom Hanks. In addition to some personal events that wound up garnering media attention, he recently wrote and starred in the submarine thriller, Greyhound. And to close out the season, the performer has taken on the lead role in News of the World, a new western from director Paul Greengrass (Captain Phil lips, Ja son Bourne, 22 July). The movie may feel a bit old-fashioned and measured in some respects, but it is a well-acted and beautifully shot feature that displays some scenic natural locations. Captain Jefferson K idd (Hanks) is a Civil War veteran who makes his living traveling around Texas reading news stories to paying customers. While on the way to his next stop, he comes across a stranded girl named Johanna Leonburger (Helena Zengel). It appears that the unruly youngster’s family was killed by the Kiowa people several years earlier and that she was adopted by them. Now, her new guardians have been slaughtered, leaving her completely alone and unable to communicate in English. Initially, Kidd attempts to drop her off with government agents hoping they’ll locate her next of kin. However, after being informed that the proper official is away for three months, the performer decides to take the child himself. They travel over 400 miles toward her aunt and uncle, making stops along the way to read to audiences. But as the route proves dangerous, the pair must deal with numerous threats. This film is centered largely COMMUNITY

Tom Hanks takes on the Western genre when he plays Civil War veteran Captain Jeﬀerson Kidd in “News of the World,” as he works through the grief of losing his wife and protects a stranded girl, Johanna Leonburger (Helena Zengel). Photo Credit: Universal Pictures around Kidd and his own personal loss, depending wholly on the lead performances to work. Obviously, Hanks is fi ne in the role of a veteran struggling to deal with an unctuous child while quietly coming to grips with the loss of his wife (who died while he was away fighting in the Civil War). His character is remarkably even-tempered, perhaps even too much so, but the performer’s natural onscreen charm does endear viewers. Kidd’s calm disposition also helps viewers get accustomed to his young companion. Zengel is also very good as the angry child, at fi rst violently fighting her companion’s attempts to help before slowly forming a tight bond with him. The focus also addresses the various communication issues between Kidd and Johanna and their interpersonal conflict as, without realizing it, they both attempt to process loss and move forward with their lives. Over the running time it also becomes clear how much they need each other’s assistance to survive, especially as the frontier becomes more dangerous. Threats include the Old West equivalent of human traffickers, a corrupt town mayor and even a brutal sandstorm. For

action fans, there are a few notable moments, including a lengthy shootout between Kidd and a trio of thugs that stands out as the most tension-fi lled sequence in the fi lm. It’s also gorgeous to look at. Many of the location features which were shot outside of Santa Fe, N. M., look stunning. The interiors and nighttime shots are also strikingly

lit by cinematographer Dariusz Wolski (Prometheus, T h e Martian). While it is clear that the movie isn’t attempting to do anything radical, the film manages to subtly imply how much better these two tragic figures are together than apart, as they attempt to find closure for past events. It’s also exceptional on a technical level. News of the World is a

low-key feature that puts its star in a familiar role and doesn’t reinvent the genre. Still, it is an earnest and impressively made effort. In the end, it won’t offer viewers any jaw-dropping surprises or big headlines, but remains a compelling and interesting Western worth your attention. V ISIT: W W W. CINEMASTANCE.COM

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Gallup Sun • Friday December 25, 2020

Blu-ray/DVD Roundup for December 25, 2020 By Glenn Kay For the Sun

he holidays are here, which means things are slowing down on the Blu-ray and DVD front. However, there are still a few options arriving including a couple of noteworthy features. So, since you canâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t or likely shouldnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t go out to the movies this week, be sure to give one of these titles a try! BIG NEW RELEASES! BOYS VS. GIRLS: Set in 1990, this comedy takes viewers to a summer camp undergoing a big change after 70 years of operation. Due to financial issues, the camp director is forced into ma k i ng t he main campus and activities co-ed. He tries to sell the head counselors on the money-saving idea, but learns

his two employees have just gone through a romantic fallout themselves. It sets off a battle of pranks between the boys and the girls, with each wanting to gain dominance and control of the camp. This independent feature appears to have gotten lost in the shuffle during the pandemic and received little in the way of press. However, the movie did win awards at various comedy festivals in Hollywood, Chicago, London and Miami. Those who saw it called the fl ick playful and fun. It stars Kevin McDonald, Colin Mochrie, Eric Osborne and Rachel Dagenais. JIU JITSU: Who wouldnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t want to spend the holidays watching a goofy action mov ie st a rring Nicolas C a ge? T h i s title features a young Jiu Jitsu expert suffering from amnesia after a confrontation with an unusual, otherworldly being. He is rescued by the leader

of an ancient order of fighters and is told that their group convenes together every six years to fight off alien invaders. The young man joins in the epic battle to kick the butts of sinister forces. Response from critics was mixed-negative. A small grouping enjoyed the silliness on display and called it B-movie fun. However, more thought that the feature focused on the wrong performers and could have used significantly more time with leader Cage and the more established cast members. Alain Moussi, Marie Avgeropoulos, Juju Chan, Rick Yune, Tony Jaa and Frank Grillo also appear in the movie. KAJILLIONAIRE: The s h y, a d u l t daughter of a pair of con-artists is forced to live on the fringes of society and take part in some bizarre schemes. The eccentric comedy follows the lead as a new

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stranger is charmed into joining the family and taking part in their odd activities. Initially jealous, the daughter attempts to separate herself from her controlling parents and in the process is surprised to start forming a close bond with the new arrival. Reviewers were very positive about this little feature. A percentage found it too quirky and off-kilter for their tastes and didnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t fi nd it all that amusing. Still, most enjoyed the cast and thought that this was an interesting, off beat effort that tried to empower its naĂŻve protagonist. While this movie got plenty of attention during its run, for now it is only being made available on DVD. It stars Evan Rachel Wood, Gina Rodriguez, Richard Jenkins and Debra Winger. THE PL ACE OF NO WORDS: This unique fantasy fi lm involves a young boy dealing with a death. When he asks family members where we go and what happens when our lives end, the adults are initially unsure how to respond. The question ultimately sets the family off on a strange adventure into fantasy realms in order to find the answer. This picture played and won awards in 2019 at several fi lm festivals around the world. Word from the press was also upbeat. A small group thought that the movie was pompous and too downbeat for a family flick. However, more admired what the fi lmmakers were attempting to accomplish and thought that even if it didnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t all work, this was an interesting movie that would make an impression on viewers. Mark Webber, Teresa Palmer, Bodhi Palmer

and Nicole Elizabeth Berger headline the picture. SHORTCUT: Obviously, if youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;re in a horror fl ick, you should never go to a cabin in the woods â&#x20AC;Ś but t h a t wouldnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t make for much of a mov ie. T h is film also warns you not to take a bus in the wilderness either. The plot involves five teenage friends who decide to take a ride to an undisclosed location in the forest. They soon find themselves being attacked on the road by a monstrous bat-creature. This is an Englishl a n g u a ge It a l i a n /G er m a n co-production that garnered a split reaction from critics. Almost half stated that the monster a nd effects were good, but t hat t he mov ie didnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t create much tension and ended up breaking down well before it reached its destination. However, just as many called it an effective creature feature with plenty of mood and atmospherics that didnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t overstay its welcome. It features Jack Kane, Zander Emlano, Zak Sutcliffe, Sophie Jane Oliver and Molly Dew. T H E WA R W I T H GRANDPA: The relationship between a youngster and his grandfat he r c ome s u nder some st ra i n a f ter the senior is forced to move into the family home. After being given the boyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s bedroom, the child announces his

BLU-RAY/DVD | SEE PAGE 20

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NM PRISON & JAIL | FROM PAGE 6 “I have seen neglect and poor jail conditions, and I know how helpless inmates are to address these types of abuses on their own,” Jordan wrote in an email. “I don’t know any thing about the [NMP&JP] group. I am hopeful that it will be a vehicle to improve conditions.” Allen said NMP&JP would be interested in representing people at the McKinley County Detention Center. “We cover the entire state, so any county that has a jail — which McKinley County does — we’re inviting people that are incarcerated there, their family members and other people to reach out about their experiences there,” Allen said. During the Zoom meeting, another New Mexico lawyer named Matthew Coyte said that “some of the worst conditions ... emanate from our jails.” Allen elaborated on that notion in an email, saying the issues he sees with jails range from “horrendous sanitary conditions” to “excessive use of force.” “Working with people who are incarcerated in jails has special challenges, of course, because they aren’t incarcerated for long periods and so they tend to be more difficult to connect with,” he wrote. “But we fully intend to bring future lawsuits against jails, not just the N.M. Corrections Department.” Allen said that the cases in New Mexico with the largest damage awards have come from lawsuits involving jails.

Jorda n sa id he ag reed with the nonprofit’s assessment that jails can be worse than prisons. Allen said he is not implying anything negative about jails based on the number of beds they have. “[It’s] just that a larger number of beds means more people are typically being detained there, so it would make sense for a project like ours to make sure we monitor it,” he said. Steven Silversmith, deput y wa rden for t he McK i n ley Cou nt y Adu lt Det ent ion Cent er, s a id i n over 2 5 ye a r s on t he job, he ha s not hea rd a ny t h i ng about ja ils hav ing cond it io n s wor s e t h a n pr i s on s. He at t r ibut e s t h at to detent ion center st a f f a nd i n mate com mu n icat ion s. Silversmith said the best he could do was speak on behalf of the adult detention center, which, in the COVID19 era, is cleaned for operation everyday. He said they’ve enlisted the help of the 80 inmates housed there. “ T h e y ’r e p r e t t y g o o d about it. They’re tr ying to keep safe,” he said. “They all pull together and make sure it gets done, because t hey don’t wa nt to catch anything.” Silversmith was unfamiliar with NMP&JP, but said he liked the idea. “That would be a plus for the offenders,” Silversmith said. “Jail is not really a place to be du r i ng t h i s COV ID [pandemic].” N M P& J P pl a n s t o u se it s ever- g row i ng ba se of attorneys to file lawsuits on behalf of inmates.

Holiday displays dot the Gallup landscape from farolitos to the Nativity. Photo Credit: Knifewing Segura

NEWS/COMMUNITY

Gallup Sun • Friday December 25, 2020

The signiﬁcance of the Nativity By Sean Wells Contributing Artist

h e N a t i v i t y, E l Naciemie nt o i n Spanish, translates to “The Birth.” Such a classic image is so ver y familiar to us that we almost cease to really see it. We have all seen the story of the little town named Bethlehem where the baby Jesus was born, signified by the star burning brightly overhead and drawing shepherds and kings alike to pay respects to the coming King of Man, ret old yea rly by pa r a de s of grade-schoolers in awkwa rd ly f it t i ng co st u me s, singing sweetly. Like many images in the Christian tradition, this one creates a space for symbolism to tell a richer story. Each character presents another aspect to consider. But, the Three Wise Men, Kings from the East, always fascinated me the most. B ea r i ng g i f t s of gold, f r a n k i ncen se a nd my r rh, these mighty r ulers k nelt before a tiny newborn in a hay-covered ba r n. That is

Sean Wells, the contributing artist who provided the coloring page of the Nativity. Photo Credit: Courtesy such a power ful image of humility that is sorely lacki ng i n t od ay ’s i m a ge s of world leaders. But, what do these gifts signify? The three innocuous items leave room for a foretelling of the life of this child that is to come.

Friday December 25, 2020 • Gallup Sun

King Melchior brings the gift of gold. Gold maintains the same meaning now as it did then, and as it did a thousand years ago to the ancient Inca people. It is a symbol of wealth and royalty, a metal that never tarnishes

or corrodes and is both malleable and rare. It foretells of a king like we’ve never seen before. Melchior is often depicted wearing a gold cape to represent the gift he bears. Frankincense, brought by King Caspar, is also rare and difficult to harvest, sourcing from coastal Arabic tree bark. The a ncient Greek w r iter Herodotus tells of a venomous snake that commonly guards the trees and needed to be smoked out to gain safe access. The snake will come to repre sent t he dev iou s and dangerous existence of the fallen-angel-turned-under world- overlord Sat a n. Perhaps it is appropriate he would guard the access to gifts for God. T he i nce n s e, w it h it s wo o d y s c e n t , wo u l d b e burned and offered in various religious and spiritual rituals. It signifies an access to communicate and honor a deity. It is a premonition of Jesus’ role as a conduit for man to talk to Jesus’ father, God, and his duty and honor to sit at the right hand of his father. Caspar is depicted wearing a green cloak with hair of brown. Myrrh, brought by King Balthazar, is another resin h a r ve s t ed f rom a t hor ny tree and translates from old Arabic to “bitter” representing the taste of this coveted i ncen s e. B ec au s e it wa s

historically an important part of both Hebrew and Egyptian funerary rites, it is associated with death and cleansing. The thorny tree that bears the resin hints at the crown which Jesus wears upon his death on the cross that would come to represent suffering for his kingdom. The story of death that follows the smoke of myrrh tells of the sacrifice that Jesus will make to pay for the sins of man. But, as in many spiritual images, the death icon not only represents the pain of loss, but also a rebirth and cleansing, and even a forgiveness. Balthazar is often depicted as Black, hav ing come from Africa, and wears a cape of purple, signifying his royal status. A l l t h r e e k i n g s we r e made saints for their efforts. Interestingly, like the kings who carried them, all three gifts have restorative and healing properties. As you make your final selections of gifts to share with your loved ones for the holidays, I hope that this image of the Nativity warms your home a nd reminds you that the gifts we give to one another embody a moment of consideration for that other person, where they came from, who you see them as and who you hope they will become. Have a blessed holiday and enjoy coloring this image of the month! COMMUNITY

CHILDREN’S COLORING PAGE: THE NATIVITY

This image of family and love is dedicated to my dear friend and fellow artist Cheryl Montoya. Her colcha art illustrates her talent of craft and her big heart which I am lucky enough to know. Image and text copyright© 2020 Sean Wells. Please contact SeanWellsCreates@gmail.com for any commercial use of this image. Thank you! COMMUNITY

Gallup Sun • Friday December 25, 2020

Navajo Nation president celebrates BidenHarris choice for Interior Secretary Staff Reports

INDOW ROCK, A r i z . — Nav a jo Na t ion P r e s i d e n t Jonat h a n Nez s a id he is overjoyed about t he Biden-Harris transit i o n t e a m’s s e l e c t i o n o f Congresswoman Deb Ha a la nd, D -N.M., to ser ve as the Secretar y of the U.S. Depa r tment of the Inter ior when the Biden-Ha r r is Administration takes office in January. The New Mexico Congresswoman will be the ver y first Native A mer ica n i n h istor y to ser ve i n t h is high-level position. “It is t r u ly a h istor ic a nd u nprecedented day for a l l I nd igenou s people a s Cong re s swoma n Deb Ha a la nd ha s been selected to hea d one of t he la rge st fe d e r a l a g e n c i e s , w h i c h over see s t he BI A [Bu reau o f I n d i a n A f f a i r s] a n d

BIE [Bureau of India n E d u c a t i o n], a t t h e h i g h e s t level of t he feder a l go v e r n m e n t . I c o n g r a t u l a t e her a nd I a l s o t h a n k the Biden-Harris team for m a k i n g a s t a t ement a nd keepi ng t hei r word to pla ce Nat ive A mer ica n s i n h ig h-level cabi net posit i o n s . I a m l o o k i n g fo r wa rd to continuing to work w ith Congresswoma n Ha a la nd a nd the BidenH a r r i s Ad m i n i s t r a t ion i n t h e y e a r s t o c o m e ,” Ne z sa id. I n November, Nez pub licly stated his suppor t for Cong re s swom a n H a a l a nd to ser ve as the next I nter ior Secreta r y say i ng, “A s a member of Congress, she has been a strong voice for a l l t r iba l n a t ion s a nd the people of New Mex ico on a wide va r iety of issues i nclud i ng la nd ma nage ment , cle a n ener g y, e co nomic development, socia l

ju st ice, a nd job creat ion. He r a d v o c a c y fo r e q u a l it y a nd ju s t ice h a s never wavered a nd conti nues to grow stronger. Her abilit y t o weig h t he i s sue s f rom social, economic, and politica l sta ndpoi nts is u n ique a nd somet h i ng t hat is not ea sily found.” Nez added that Haaland’s u nique backgrou nd a nd e x p er ie nc e s , d e d ic a t io n , a nd commitment to public ser v ice a re exactly what is needed at t he hel m of t he Depar tment of the Interior, especially for the Bureau of India n A ffa irs a nd Bureau of India n Education. “We need a per son l ike Congresswoman Haaland to lead the Depa r tment of the Inter ior to build a stronger rel a t ion sh ip bet ween t he fe d e r a l g o v e r n m e n t a n d tr iba l nations,” Nez sa id in November. “ The appoi ntment of D e b H a a l a nd i s not on ly

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Navajo Nation President Jonathan Nez applauds a historic moment as Congresswoman Deb Haaland, D-N.M., is selected to lead the Department of the Interior under the Biden-Harris Administration. Photo Credit: OPVP be histor ic (sic), but it also send s a clea r me s s a ge t o all tribes and people across A me r ic a t h a t t he B id e n H a r r i s Ad m i n i s t r a t ion i s

com m it t ed t o a dd re s si ng the wrongs of the pa st a nd c l e a r i n g a p a t h fo r r e a l change and oppor tunity for tr iba l nations,” Nez added.

BLU-RAY/DVD | FROM PAGE 16

presenting a Special “Limited Edition” Blu-ray of the iconic Japanese animated feature, Akira (1988). Set in an alternate future after the end of WWIII, a rebuilt Neo-Tokyo struggles with poverty and despair and a young biker takes to the streets to fight back against his oppressors. He’s kidnapped by government forces and used for experiments, but breaks free with new and dangerous psycho-kinetic powers on a scale never witnessed before. The movie has been remastered on disc in 4K and comes with a few bonuses including a storyboard collection and trailers as well as other extras. YOU KNOW, FOR KIDS! Sorry, it looks like a slow week for kids this time out, but new material should be arriving in the coming weeks. ON THE TUBE! And here are the TV-themed titles coming your way. The 100: The 7th and Final Season NOVA: A to Z – The First A l p h a b e t : Ho w Wr i t i n g Changed the World (PBS) V ISIT: W W W. CINEMASTANCE.COM

displeasure and declares war in order to reclaim his space. Pranks between the two escalate until they are forced to deal with ramifications of their actions. This family comedy was largely panned by reviewers. One or two commented that it wasn’t a great film, but noted that any picture an entire household could watch together was welcome during this grim period. Everyone else thought the family might be better off playing a board game. They called this effort a series of badly delivered slapstick gags, also suggesting that the impressive cast deserved much better. It stars Robert De Niro, Uma Thurman, Rob Riggle, Oakes Fegley, Cheech Marin, Jane Seymour, Christopher Walken and Laura Marano. BL ASTS FROM THE PAST! Naturally, things are winding down as the year nears its end, so there are fewer catalog titles receiving Blu-ray upgrades. At least anime fans will be happy. FUNimation is

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positions &/or the HIA being facilitated call 505-862-9329.

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. AUTO SALES Gurley Motor Company

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2 Paid-Internships Community Outreach & Research Assistants The McKinley Community Health Alliance is seeking two community members to apply to be paid-assistants/ interns ($12/hour for ~200 hours) in either a community outreach or research capacity role. Each assistant will work with HIA team leads and a team of community members to help facilitate, with the

community, a Health Impact Assessment of Housing within the City of Gallup. Interest in community involvement, community or public health topics, willingness to learn and to pass on that knowledge are a great start; ● Outreach work requires basic online/social media/ public speaking skills. ● Research work requires communication and time management skills. Proficient skills in Microsoft Word & Excel also preferred. ● Both positions require basic email/internet & phone communication capabilities. ● Indigneous/Native American community members preferred. TO APPLY: Email letter or statement of interest (along with any supporting documents) to chrisbhudson15@gmail.com by Jan. 1st, 2021. For more information on the

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will conduct its regular monthly Board of Directors Meeting to be held virtually on Thursday, January 21, 2021 at 3 PM. The agenda and a log-in information will be available 72 hours prior to the meeting from francis@ gallupbid.com and on City of Gallup website.

*** Plumber needed Clean driving record Valid driver’s License Apply at 500 E. Coal Ave Bring a driving record when applying.

Publish: Gallup Sun December 23, 2020

*** DELIVERY DRIVER The Gallup Sun is hiring an independent contractor delivery driver. You must have a vehicle, valid driver’s license, registration, and insurance. Email resume or work history to gallupsuncirculation@ gmail.com

CITY OF GALLUP, NEW MEXICO FORMAL BID NO. 2037

LEGAL/PUBLIC NOTICES Public Notice Public Notice is hereby given that Gallup Business Improvement District, Inc.

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Public notice is hereby given that the City of Gallup, New Mexico, will receive sealed bids for the following: RENTAL OF SEWER VACUUM TRUCK City of Gallup-Wastewater Department As more particularly set out in the Bid documents,

CLASSIFIEDS | SEE PAGE 22

CITY OF GALLUP SOLID WASTE CUSTOMERS DUE TO THE HOLIDAYS THERE WILL BE NO REGULAR REFUSE COLLECTION SERVICES on Friday, December 25, 2020 and Friday, January 1, 2021. For both of these holidays, Friday’s scheduled routes will be collected the day prior on Thursday, December 24, 2020 and Thursday, December 31, 2020. RESIDENTIAL CUSTOMERS FOR ONE WEEK ONLY: Monday, December 28, 2020 thru Thursday, December 31, 2020, the Solid Waste Department will collect extra CHRISTMAS REFUSE ONLY, free of charge. Please set items curbside away from your herbie on your scheduled pickup day. If you require further information, please call 863-1212. Christmas tree drop-oﬀ locations: Ford Canyon Park & Larry Brian Mitchell Recreation Center.

Service is your way of life, and our way of doing business. GALLUP 107 E. Aztec Ave., 505.722.4411 Walmart: 1650 W. Maloney Ave., 505.863.3442 1804 E. Aztec Ave., 505.722.0300

CLASSIFIEDS

Gallup Sun • Friday December 25, 2020

CLASSIFIEDS | FROM PAGE 21 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 available for viewing or can be downloaded from: https://app.negometrix.com/ buyer/3226 Electronically submitted bids for such will be received at the Office of the Purchasing Department until 2:00 P.M. ( ) on January 8, 2020 when bids will be opened and read aloud in the City Hall Purchasing Conference Room via virtual conference/video calls or through other virtual means. The City of Gallup has transitioned to a new e-Bid/ RFx software powered by Negrometrix. All solicitations will be released electronically through Negometrix and responses from bidders must be submitted electronically through this online platform. By using Negometrix, prospective bidders will be provided with all information regarding a bid including addendums and changes to the project requirements. Negometrix is a completely free service for all respondents. Prior to submitting a proposal, respondents are required to set up their free account with Negometrix. Register your company at Negometrix.com. Only ELECTRONICALLY SUBMITTED BIDS will now be accepted; system will not accept bids submitted after due date and time. Dated this 16th day of December, 2020 By: /S/ Louie Bonaguidi, Mayor

Classified Legal Column: Gallup Sun Publishing Date: Friday, December 23, 2020 *** ELEVENTH JUDICIAL DISTRICT COURT COUNTY OF McKINLEY STATE OF NEW MEXICO In the Matter of the Estate of THOMAS E. SMITH, Deceased. No. D-1113-PB-2020-00040 NOTICE TO CREDITORS JEFFREY A. SMITH has been appointed Personal Representative of the Estate of THOMAS E. SMITH, 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 the 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, attorney for the Personal Representative, or filed with the District Court of McKinley County, New Mexico. Dated: 12/15/20 JEFFREY A. SMITH Personal Representative MASON & ISAACSON, P.A. By: James J. Mason Attorneys for Personal Representative 104 East Aztec Avenue Gallup, New Mexico 87301 (505)722-4463 PUBLISH: Gallup Sun December 23, 2020 December 30, 2020 January 8, 2021 *** CITY OF GALLUP, NEW MEXICO Notice of Public Hearing

We believe in ideas. We believe in passion. We believe in dreams. We believe in you.

www.nmhu.edu 22 Friday December 25, 2020 • Gallup Sun

Notice is hereby given that at its regular meeting on January 12, 2021, commencing at the hour of 6:00 p.m., in the City Council Chambers of City Hall, 110 West Aztec Avenue, Gallup, New Mexico (the “City”), the City will conduct a public hearing to consider a proposed Ordinance, the title of which appears below. A complete copy of the Ordinance is available for public inspection during normal and regular business hours at the Office of the City Clerk, 110 West Aztec Avenue, Gallup, New Mexico 87301. The title of the proposed Ordinance is: AN ORDINANCE AUTHORIZING THE EXECUTION AND DELIVERY OF A WATER PROJECT FUND LOAN/ GRANT AGREEMENT BY AND BETWEEN THE NEW MEXICO FINANCE AUTHORITY (“FINANCE AUTHORITY”) AND THE CITY OF GALLUP (THE “BORROWER/GRANTEE”), IN THE TOTAL AMOUNT OF Five million seven hundred ninety-two thousand eight hundred twentynine dollars ($5,792,829), including a Loan Amount of Two million three hundred seventeen thousand one hundred thirty-two dollars ($2,317,132), EVIDENCING AN OBLIGATION OF THE BORROWER/GRANTEE TO UTILIZE THE LOAN/GRANT AMOUNT SOLELY FOR THE PURPOSE OF FINANCING THE COSTS OF construction of Reach 27.11 TO connect to ReachEs 27.5, 27.9, and 27.10, to deliver water to Navajo Nation Chapters south of Gallup, including 1.4± miles of 14” waterline, 1.3± miles of 12” waterline, and a meter station, AND SOLELY IN THE MANNER DESCRIBED IN THE LOAN/ GRANT AGREEMENT; PROVIDING FOR THE PLEDGE AND PAYMENT OF THE LOAN AMOUNT AND AN ADMINISTRATIVE FEE SOLELY FROM THE NET SYSTEM REVENUES OF THE Joint water and wastewater System of the Borrower/Grantee; CERTIFYING THAT THE LOAN/GRANT AMOUNT, TOGETHER WITH OTHER FUNDS AVAILABLE TO THE

BORROWER/GRANTEE, IS SUFFICIENT TO COMPLETE THE PROJECT; APPROVING THE FORM OF AND OTHER DETAILS CONCERNING THE LOAN/GRANT AGREEMENT; RATIFYING ACTIONS HERETOFORE TAKEN; REPEALING ALL ACTION INCONSISTENT WITH THIS ORDINANCE; AND AUTHORIZING THE TAKING OF OTHER ACTIONS IN CONNECTION WITH THE EXECUTION AND DELIVERY OF THE LOAN/ GRANT AGREEMENT. A general summary of the subject matter of the Ordinance is contained in its title. Publication of this notice constitutes compliance with NMSA 1978, § 3-17-3. PUBLISH: Gallup Sun December 23, 2020 *** MCKINLEY COUNTY ELECTRIC GENERATING FACILITY ECONOMIC DISTRICT PUBLIC NOTICE PUBLIC NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that the McKinley County Electric Generating Facility Economic District Authority (the “Authority”), the governing body of the McKinley County Electric Generating Facility Economic District (the “District”), will hold a Special Meeting on Monday, December 28, 2020 at 1:00 p.m. The agenda for the Special Meeting is indicated below. Adhering to the Social Distancing Protocols, issued by the Governor’s Office; and the requirements of the Open Meetings Act allowing members of the public to attend and listen to meetings of a quorum of the Authority, this meeting will be physically closed to the public but open to the public via technology services. Members of the public may view the live stream feed offered on the approved Facebook account of the McKinley County Office of Emergency Management. The members of the Authority may participate in the meeting by phone or other technological participation methods. All interested parties are invited to attend and listen to the

proceedings of the Special Meeting via the live steam mentioned herein. Among other things, the Authority will discuss and take action on the Following: CONSIDERATION/ ADOPTION OF RESOLUTION AUTHORIZING CIBOLA COUNTY TO BECOME PART OF THE AUTHORITY AND REQUESTING THAT CIBOLA COUNTY APPOINT FOUR ADDITIONAL MEMBERS TO THE AUTHORITY; APPROVING THE ADOPTION OF BYLAWS FOR THE DISTRICT; MAKING PROVISIONS FOR THE POSTING OF SURETY BONDS IN ACCORDANCE WITH THE SURETY BOND ACT; APPROVING RETENTION OF COUNSEL FOR THE DISTRICT; RATIFYING PRIOR ACTIONS AND TAKING RELATED ACTION. CONSIDERATION/ADOPTION OF DISTRICT’S OPEN MEETINGS RESOLUTION DETERMINING WHAT NOTICE FOR PUBLIC MEETINGS IS REASONABLE WHEN APPLIED TO THE AUTHORITY. CONSIDERATION/ ADOPTION OF RESOLUTION DESIGNATING THE DISTRICT’S CUSTODIAN OF PUBLIC RECORDS AND DIRECTING POSTING OF THE DISTRICT’S NOTICE OF RIGHT TO INSPECT PUBLIC RECORDS. DISCUSSION OF OTHER MATTERS CONCERNING THE DISTRICT AND/OR THE AUTHORITY The actual agenda to be available with the McKinley County Managers office 72 hours prior to the meeting and will be posted this first time on the McKinley County Web site. All interested parties are invited to attend via live stream mentioned herein. Done on behalf of the McKinley County Electric Generating Facility Economic District Authority Done this day 22nd day of December 2020 Publication by posting date: December 22, 2020 before 3:00 pm. Published in Gallup Sun December 23, 2020. CLASSIFIEDS

COMMUNITY CALENDAR DECEMBER 25 - DECEMBER 31, 2020 FRIDAY, December 25

DRAWCEMBER ART CHALLENGE

Dec. 20-26 OFPL challenges you to sketch the provided weekly themes. This week’s theme will Holiday Song. (Pick any holiday song & create a visual representation of that song). Send your weekly artwork through our social media @galluplibrary or use our special hashtag #OFPLsketchchallenge to win prizes.

OFPL NEW MEXICO TRADITIONS SERIES

11 am - Visit You Tube @galluplibrary to view episodes of the series featuring winter traditions of the diverse peoples of New Mexico. Videos are posted Wednesdays and Fridays. La Posada is today’s focus.

DRIVE-UP COVID-19 TESTING

1:30 pm-2:30 pm @ UNM Gallup Lions Hall parking lot (705 Gurley Ave.). Pre-registration is preferred, but not required at cvtestreg. nmhealth.org SATURDAY, December 26

BULLET JOURNAL 101

1 pm @ Facebook @galluplibrary for a workshop perfect to bring in the New Year! Let’s start a new habit together. Create your own bullet journal to keep track of days, water intake, binge worthy shows, best new music, and more. Visit ofpl. online to request your bullet journal making materials through the Online Request Form. For more information: jwhitman@gallupnm.gov or call (505) 863-1291.

VIRTUAL HOLIDAY CELEBRATION

Since photos for Christmas and Hanukkah were submitted through Dec. 17, there are now photos and video being accepted through Dec. 31 for Kwanzaa, which begins Dec. 26. Go to https://www.gallup. unm.edu/virtual-holiday-celebration/submit-photo-video. php SUNDAY December 27

DRAWCEMBER ART CHALLENGE

Dec. 27-31 OFPL challenges you to sketch the provided weekly themes. This week’s theme will be Hope. (Open-ended sketch of hope). Send your weekly artwork through our social media @ galluplibrary or use our special hashtag #OFPLsketchchallenge to win prizes. MONDAY, December 28

CREATIVE CORNER

4 pm @ ofpl.online/programs/#makerspace. The

CALENDAR

focus will be on Photograph 101 (Learn the basics of photography through camera and phone devices.)

WINTER BREAK

Gallup McKinley County Schools through Jan. 1, 2021

DRIVE-UP COVID-19 TESTING

1:30 pm-2:30 pm @ UNM Gallup Lions Hall parking lot (705 Gurley Ave.). Pre-registration is preferred, but not required at cvtestreg. nmhealth.org NM Dept of Health 1919 College Dr. TUESDAY, December 29

EVERYBODY IS TALKING TUESDAYS! – CELEBRATIONS AND DIY IDEAS

4 pm YouTube, @galluplibrary on Tuesdays. Join the creative genius of the Octavia Fellin Public Library and our unusually talented neighbors for book-talks, author-talks, movie-talks, pop-talks, foodtalks, maker-talks, tech-talks.

COVID TESTING

11 am-1 pm in Grants @ Grants Public Health Office (700 E. Roosevelt Ave., Ste. 100) WEDNESDAY, December 30

(FACEBOOK LIVE) WHAT IS THIS THING? NEW TECHNOLOGY Q&A

4 pm. Did you get new technology for Christmas and have no idea how to set it up or use it? Join us for a live question and answer session where we will look at new holiday tech and take your questions. Get help or just talk about the great features your new device has to offer. For more information: libtrain@gallupnm.gov ; (505) 863-1291.

OFPL NEW TRADITIONS SERIES

11 am - Visit You Tube @galluplibrary to view episodes of the series featuring winter traditions of the diverse peoples of New Mexico. Videos are posted Wednesdays and Fridays. Winter stories (Diné) are today’s focus.

DRIVE-UP COVID-19 TESTING

1:30 pm-2:30 pm @ UNM Gallup Lions Hall parking lot (705 Gurley Ave.). Pre-registration is preferred, but not required at cvtestreg. nmhealth.org

COVID TESTING

11 am-1 pm in Grants @ Grants Public Health Office (700 E. Roosevelt Ave., Ste. 100). THURSDAY, December 31

CRAFTY KIDS

4 pm on Facebook and Youtube @galluplibrary (all ages) for family-friendly crafts and step-by-step tutorials for all skill levels. This week we will create Mitten Monsters.

CALENDAR

ONGOING

COMMUNITY MITTEN TREE

Help us deck the halls! Pick up a paper mitten curbside to decorate and return for our community mitten tree window display. Request your mitten on our Online Registration Form at ofpl.online. Email childlib@gallupnm. gov or call (505) 863-1291 for more information.

UNM-GALLUP HOLIDAY STEP CHALLENGE

Individual challenge with prizes. Goal is 420,000 steps. The challenge is six weeks or 42 days long. For more information: mchenry25@unm. edu; (505) 862-9389.

MCKINLEY COUNTY IMMUNIZATION CLINICS, FLU SHOTS

8:30 am – 4 pm Mon., Wed., Fri. continues through December by appointment. @ McKinley Public Health Office, (1919 College Dr.) Call (505) 722-4391 to schedule an appointment. Vaccines provided at no cost for children through 18 years of age. Bring your child’s shot record.

CALL FOR VOLUNTEERS

Big Brothers Big Sisters is looking for more mentors to make a difference in the life of a young person. Mentors and mentees can meet for socially distance friendly interactions or hangout virtually playing games, cooking, reading, etc. via Facetime, Zoom, or other platforms. For more information call 505726-4285 or go to .bbbsmountainregion.org/volunteer to sign up today.

RMCHCS FLU VACCINES (ADULTS ONLY)

Urgent Care Clinic (520 Hwy. 564). Walk-ins 5 pm- 9 pm, Sat., 9 am - 9 pm and 12 pm-5 pm Sun. Please bring insurance information. For those with no health insurance there will be a $25 fee. Pre-registration can be done during hours of operation, 9 am-9 pm. For more information: (505) 863-2273.

RMCHCS COVID-19 DRIVE-UP TESTING

9 am-5 pm Mon.-Fri. @ Urgent Care Center (520 NM Hwy 564, north of the New Mexico Cancer Center). Closed on Sundays. Rapid testing is not available.

VIRTUAL TUTORING AND HOMEWORK HELP

The Boys & Girls Club of Gallup has been offering virtual tutoring and homework help with trained mentors using Zoom calls. Club members with a 2020 membership can attend for free after they fill out a virtual permission form on the club website. To get

a 2020 membership, fill out an online application and permission form. It’s free. The help will be available until Dec. 31. For more information: bgcgallup.com; (505) 488-2378; Facebook@ BoysandGirlsClubGallup

DIAL-A-STORY

Storytime anytime, call (505) 862-9177 to hear a story any time of the day or night. Stories will change daily, at the end feel free to leave us a message to let us know what stories you want to hear. For more information: childlib@gallupnm.gov; (505) 863-1291.

LIBRARY CARD REGISTRATION ONLINE

Today’s libraries have programs and resources that go far beyond books. From virtual story times, family game nights and art classes, to opportunities to borrow audiobooks and stream movies, there’s something for everyone at the library. To explore all that the library has to offer, visit your library at ofpl.online to register for a free library card. For more information: bmartin@gallupnm.gov or call (505) 8631291 for more information.

CURBSIDE CHECKOUT SERVICES

OFPL staff continues to provide essential services to our community by offering curbside checkout, virtual classes, workshops, and public education through our social media platforms. Visit ofpl.online for the online request form. • DVD/CD check out limit is 10 - 30 library items total. OFPL Staff is on-site Monday through Friday from 9 am-6 pm. and will assist with curbside checkout. Free Comic Book to keep with your curbside order while supplies last. Call (505)-863-1291 for all inquiries including reference services.

FRIENDS OF THE LIBRARY REGISTRATION

OFPL is recruiting new members for our Friends of the Library Group. The OFPL Friends’ support library programs, services, and collections through a variety of in-kind activities. If you are passionate about helping our community grow stronger, join the Octavia Fellin Public Library Friends’ Group and get involved in event planning, local and State advocacy, fundraising and philanthropy. To join please visit https://ofpl.online/partners-of-ofpl/#friends and our Friends’ Coordinator will contact you with more information. For more information: childlib@gallupnm. gov or call (505) 863-1291.

NAVAJO IHS COVID-19 TESTING SCHEDULE

7 am-7 pm @Chinle Comprehensive Health Care Facility (Sun.-Sat.) 8:30 am-4:30 pm @ Piñon Health Center (M, T, W, F) 1:15 pm-4:30 pm @ Piñon Health Center (Th) 8:30 am-4 pm @ Tsaile Health Center (M,W,F) 1 pm-4 pm @ Tsaile Health Center (Th) 9 am-1 pm @ Rock Point Clinic (T) 8:30 am-12 pm @Crownpoint Healthcare Facility (M.T,Th,F) 12:45 pm-3:45 pm Drive-Up @ Crownpoint Healthcare Facility (M.T,Th,F) 9am-3:30 pm Walk In Clinic @ Pueblo Pintado Clinic (M-Th) 9 am-12pm Drive Up @ Thoreau Clinic (M, F) 9 am-4 pm @Gallup Indian Medical Center (M-F) 9 am-2 pm Car-based testing located on Government Circle Dr. (Next to Emergency Dept.) @Gallup Indian Medical Center (Sat., Sun.) 8 am-3:30 pm Drive-Thru @ Tohatchi Health Center (M, T, Th, F) 12 pm-3:30 pm Drive-Thru @ Tohatchi Health Center (Wed.) 8:30 am-4 pm @Kayenta Health Center (Sun.-Sat.) 8:30 am-4 pm @ Inscription House Health Center (M-F)

NAVAJO IHS FLU VACCINE SCHEDULE

8 am-11 am @Chinle Comprehensive Health Care Facility (M, T, W, F) 11:30 am-5 pm Drive-Thru @ Chinle Comprehensive Health Care Facility (M, T, W, F) 1 pm-5 pm Drive-Thru @Chinle Comprehensive Health Care Facility (Th) 8:30 am-4:30 pm Drive-Thru @ Piñon Health Center (M, T, W, F) 1:15 pm-4:30 pm Drive-Thru @ Piñon Health Center (Th) 8:30 am-4 pm Drive-Thru @ Tsaile Health Center (M,W,F) 1 pm-4 pm Drive-Thru @ Tsaile Health Center (Th) 9 am-1 pm @ Rock Point Clinic (T) 9 am-4:30 pm @UNM-Gallup (Gymnasium parking lot on Calvin Hall Dr.) (M-F) 8 am-3:30 pm Appointments only @ Tohatchi Health Center (M-F)

8 am-4 pm @Kayenta Health Center (M-F) 8 am-4 pm @ Inscription House Health Center (M-F) To post a nonprofit or civic event in the calendar section, please email: gallupsunevents@gmail.com or fax: (505) 212-0391. Deadline: Monday at 5 pm.

Gallup Sun • Friday December 25, 2020

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