E FRE
VOL 7 | ISSUE 302 | JANUARY 8, 2021
WE SHALL NOT BE MOVED
Statement by Navajo Nation President Jonathan Nez and Vice President Myron Lizer:
“First and foremost, the violent events unfolding at the Capitol in Washington D.C., are shameful, uncalled for, and need to stop immediately. We are praying for the safety and well-being of our leaders and staff in Congress, law enforcement officers, the Navajo Nation Washington Office staff members, and all citizens of the Navajo Nation and our country. Today was a special day for the Navajo Nation as we held a peaceful inauguration for chapter and other local officials to carry out duties and service for our Navajo people. Unfortunately, this special day for many of our new and returning leaders and their families is being overshadowed by the violence occurring in Washington D.C. We pray that law and order will be restored for the federal government, and we pray that our nation heals from the divisive politics that has driven so much of the discord in our country. We must remember that the peaceful transition of power has always been a cornerstone of our country’s democracy and for the Navajo people. The division and the violence that has escalated today [Jan. 6] is unacceptable and must not be condoned or perpetuated by anyone, including our own Navajo people and leaders. We must be united as Navajo people, and not let the divisiveness we are seeing in Washington D.C. unfold in our homelands. Remember the teachings of our elders and the examples set by our past leaders and ancestors. Despite differences in views of society, politics, and values, we must always maintain respect and dignity for all people and each other. Our country and the Navajo Nation are facing unprecedented challenges and uncertainties, but we are strong, and we are resilient — our grandparents, parents, and many others have proven this time and time again throughout our history. In the midst of this pandemic, unprecedented numbers of COVID-19 infections, and the overwhelming of our health care system, it is important for all Americans to come together and to protect the institutions of democracy, the spirit and hope of democracy, and most importantly to protect the health and safety of all Americans. We ask you to join us in prayer for our Navajo people and our country at this time. Ahe’hee”
State lawmakers respond to siege on Capitol Hill
Statement by Governor Michelle Lujan Grisham: “There is no place in our country or state for this,” Lujan Grisham said. “This is beneath the United States of America. It is not who we are. I am sickened beyond words by the scenes from Washington, D.C., this afternoon [Jan. 6]. It is nothing less than domestic terrorism, enacted in an effort to overturn a free and fair election. I am praying for the law enforcement and military personnel working to protect American lives from this anti-democratic riot and attempted insurrection. Law enforcement personnel here in New Mexico will continue to monitor any analogous protests that are occurring or may occur in our state. “The president of the United States has stoked this anti-democracy sentiment. He has fanned flames of hatred and violence. His reprehensible attacks on the rule of law and American democracy have directly inspired this unconscionable display of disorder and mob mentality. He is responsible. He has always been responsible. His conspiracies and threats endanger the very fabric of our nation. He – and every one of his enablers – must be held accountable. The president must immediately join leaders across the political spectrum in calling for an end to the chaos he has caused.”
` Rep.Leger-Fernandez start on Page 17 Statements by Sens. Heinrich, Lujan,
Talking Careers: Sandia Lab experts share insights with GMCS students Sherman Begay, IT Solutions Architect
Sandia.gov/Careers
Sherman Begay is originally from Burnham, north of Gallup. “I grew up in Burnham, I grew up without electricity, without water,” Begay told a group of GMCS students during a virtual visit as part of the Sandia Labs virtual seminars hosted by the GallupMcKinley County Schools this past month. “Basically, I grew up camping.” The seminars are part of GMCS’s College & Career Readiness program. CCR education promotes interpersonal & Relationships Building Skills, Career Exploration and Early Career Pathways. GMCS hosted four different virtual seminars, allowing professionals from Sandia Laboratories to share their insights into their jobs and how they advanced to their professions. Begay said he learned a lot by growing up in Burnham and attending the Newcomb schools. “In all fairness, I learned a lot, think I was able to take away a lot,” Begay said. “I thought I was really prepared.” Begay is an IT Solutions Architect at Sandia Lab and he has worked on different project and mission areas within Sandia from robotics to satellite ground segments to corporate enterprise computing. Begay started as an intern at Sandia Labs in 1994 and has been there for 26 years.
Professionally, Nicole Rinaldi is a Mechanical Engineer at Sandia National Laboratories. She works in Energy Management and leads Sandia’s efforts in Green Buildings. She is also responsible for utility metering and utility forecasting.
“I want to demonstrate to you there are many roads to accomplish success,” Begay said. “How you define success? It’s really in your control.”
She is also a 26-year-old wife and mother, who knows the challenges of balancing her home life with her professional life.
Begay shared his background of attending elementary school and high school at Newcomb.
Recently, Rinaldi shared her experiences with Gallup-McKinley County students during a Sandia Labs virtual seminar hosted by the Gallup-McKinley County Schools.
“I did very well, I did the best I could,” he said. “I had some great teachers. One of the things I took away is education is there for you. It’s a tool. Teachers are going to do what they can, but it comes back to you as an individual. “I didn’t have the discipline to do homework. It came down to discipline,” Begay said. “I try to hit that home a lot. Have the discipline. You are expected to do well in school and turn in homework, but what will separate you from the next person is the additional work you do.”
Rinaldi went to New Mexico Tech and worked for Kirtland Air Force Base. “My job is ever-changing,” Rinaldi said. “I never know what I’m going to work on (each day).” Rinaldi said that one aspect of her job that was a surprise to her was having to give presentations. “I give tons of presentations to leadership,” Rinaldi said. As a result, Rinaldi said, her “fear of public speaking has been resolved.”
Begay attended the University of New Mexico and found out that what worked in high school didn’t translate to academic success in college.
Rinaldi, having to work from home because of the pandemic, also named a challenge that many people can relate to.
“The professors, instructors, they don’t wait for you,” he said.
“The biggest challenge is the internet,” Rinaldi said. “I’m paying for the best internet and it still sucks.”
So Begay put more effort into his studies. “I would do the extra work.”
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Nicole Rinaldi, Mechanical Engineer
Rinaldi said to have a backup plan in case the internet goes down.
Through it all, he cherishes his life experiences.
Rinaldi was asked what career she thinks will be most in demand at Sandia Labs in the future.
“I wouldn’t change anything about the way I grew up.”
She answered, “Cyber-security expert.”
Friday January 8, 2021 • Gallup Sun
NEWS
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Gallup Sun â&#x20AC;¢ Friday January 8, 2021
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LOCAL NEWS
Gallup’s movers and shakers reveal New Year’s wish lists By Kevin Opsahl Sun Correspondent
G
etting ripped, learning to play the piano, or fi nding the motivation to work on a home improvement project are annually recurring daydreams at this time of year. But with the pandemic, some of those may have already been checked off the list. If that’s the case, then what can Gallup residents look to accomplish in 2021? The Gallup Sun asked some prominent people in our community, including the mayor, the community food pa ntry director, and the Gallup MainStreet Arts & Cultural District director about their wish lists for the new year.
Louis Bonaguidi, mayor of Gallup. Photo Credit: Courtesy
at a “Red Level,” which means 25% capacity for essential businesses, indoor dining is prohibited while outdoors is restricted Louis Bonaguidi, significantly, and recreational mayor of Gallup facilities that require close contact remain closed. While Aside from his personal res- Bonaguidi expressed his belief olution to eat less chocolate, that the measures are essential Mayor Louis Bonaguidi had five to slowing the spread of COVIDitems for the city on his New 19, it puts a damper on the city’s Year’s wish list. economy. “You have to quarVa cci n at e re sident s: antine yourself. Try to stay at Vaccines from Pfizer BioNTech home, and even when you can and Moderna were the first get out, there’s nowhere to go,” to be distributed to hospi- Bonaguidi said. “Businesses are tals across the country at the so important to our community.” beginning of December. In its Get children back to the first phase it is being offered to classrooms: The Gallup mayor health care workers and those admits that even though the in assisted-living housing. schools aren’t under his conBefore long, Bonaguidi said he trol, he would like to see more hopes people in Gallup can get children return to school — and it, too, because he would love to stay there — and not have to see Gallup “back to normal.” He worry about another tempoemphasized, “I think the answer rary shutdown due to COVIDis going to be the vaccinations.” 19 spread. “It’s so rough on Fully open businesses: our kids. They are not getting According to the latest (Dec. the education they deserve,” 16) New Mexico Health Order, Bonaguidi said. He also pointed Gallup is currently operating out that, the city’s recreational
Alice Perez, executive director, The Community Pantry. Photo Credit: Courtesy
facilities are shut down, and emphasized the impact that has on young people. “These poor kids, that pent up energy they have, they’re not able to use [it].” Progress on city projects: Since Bonaguidi came into office in May, he’s wanted to reinforce and rebuild Gallup’s infrastructure , including parts of the city’s pothole-stricken roads. Those plans had to be set aside when the city council cut the budget by 30%. Hold large gatherings: Sunday services, ball games, visits to restaurants — those are all the things the Gallup mayor wou ld like to see resume. “We miss that stuff,” Bonaguidi said. “I’d like to take off, have a cup of coffee somewhere. But you can’t do that.”
Alice Perez, executive director, The Community Pantry A l ice Per e z , who h a s
Kara Smith, executive director, Gallup MainStreet Arts & Cultural District. Photo Credit: Courtesy
led the food pantry since 2015, summed up her New Year’s desires with one theme: building bridges. Not just for herself, but for her community. “Without those br idges con nect i ng to re sou rce s, opportunities, and creating knowledge, I, myself, along with everyone that surrounds me, won’t be able to move forward and have a happy and productive 2021,” Perez wrote in an email. “As I’m building and strengthening these bridges, I want to bring people along with me on this journey so that they will be independent from systems and negative lifestyles.” Perez w i she s Ga l lup would be able to go about its business the way it did before the pandemic. Along those lines, she hopes for a day when The Community Pantry is “never” needed again. “I would love for us to ‘go out of business’ simply because we are not needed,” Perez wrote.
Kara Smith, executive director, Gallup MainStreet Arts & Cultural District Kara Smith has plenty of aspirations for the new year. She listed: “A vibrant community celebration for the opening of our new street on Coal Avenue.” “Safely gathering again! We miss getting together for Downtown Night Out, A r t sCrawl, Ceremon ia l, art openings, parades, and concerts.” Smith is looking forward to working closely with district partners and the community for the economic recovery of Downtown Gallup. In the meantime, she intends to go all out to create exceptional cultural programming for the city, whether in-person or virtual.
WHAT’S INSIDE …
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NAVAJO NATION EPA Meet the new executive director
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BEN RAY LUJÁN From the House to the Senate
Friday January 8, 2021 • Gallup Sun
EARTHWEEK YEAR IN REVIEW Major changes to the planet in 2020.
WONDER WOMAN 1984 Watch a fictional fight in the halls of the White House.
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GRANTS FOOTBALL PLAYER Local studentathlete helps team to a championship NEWS
Environmental public health group joins child advocacy organization Staff Reports
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LBUQUERQUE — On Ja n. 1, the New Mex ico Environmental Public Health Network became a program of New Mexico Voices for Ch i ld ren. T he
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 Headshots of Gov. Michelle Lujan Grisham, Navajo Nation President and Vice President Jonathan Nez and Myron Lizer. Photos: Courtesy 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.
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NMEPHN, which was formed in 2018, is committed to advocating for environmental policies that positively impact public health. Its Advisory Board is comprised of medical, environmental, and public health professionals from throughout the state, including retired pediatrician Lance Chilton, MD, Anna Rondon of the New Mexico Social Justice Equity Institute, and Sharon Finarelli of the New Mexico Alliance of Health Councils. “We are very excited to be welcoming NMEPHN into the NM Voices family,” James Jimenez, executive director of the child advocacy agency said. “Our portfolio of environmental work has increased tremendously over the past
THANK YOU ADVERTISERS AJ Tires & Auto Center - 8 Amazing Grace Insurance - 16 Bubany Insurance Agency - 15 Butler’s Office City - 17 Century Link - 9 Crime Stoppers - 7 First Baptist Church $ 12 505 Burger and Wings - 10 Four Corners Detox Recovery Center - 14 Gallup Housing Authority - 3 Gallup McKinley County Schools - 2 Genaro’s Cafe - 10 Grandpa’s Grill - 10 Gurley Motor Company - 24 Keller Williams Realty - 1 Maria’s Restaurant - 10 The Medicare Store - 18 New Mexico Credit Corp - 16 NMHU $ 20 Octavia Fellin Public Library - 20 Pinnacle Bank - 18 Railway Cafe - 10 Rollie Mortuary - 11 Route 66 Diner - 10 Thunderbird Supply Co. - 5 UNM - 6 Virgie’s Restaurant & Lounge - 10
several years, so this new partnership makes perfect sense.” NMEPHN works on air quality issues such as reducing pollution from the state’s oil and gas and transportation industries, water quality issues including PFAS groundwater pollution and lead conta mination, a nd la nd use issues such as pesticide use – all of which impact vulnerable populations. Created in 1987, NM Voices began working on environmental and climate issues in
2016. Some of its recent work includes fighting to improve state and federal bonding practices so oil companies are fiscally responsible for capping and cleaning up wells that are no longer producing, and urging Congress to reauthorize the federal Land and Water Conservation Fund. Its public health work has focused primarily on the social determinants of health, including the expansion of income supports, creating a more equitable tax code, and mitigating food insecurity.
“We believe that having NMEPHN be a project of NM Voices will increase the effectiveness of both organizations,” Denise Fort, a founding member of NMEPHN said. “NM Voices’ reputation as the leading child advocacy organization in New Mexico will bring higher visibility to the work of NMEPHN, and the mission of NMEPHN will bring a sharper focus to how climate, environmental, and energy public policies impact the health and well-being of New Mexico’s families.”
Correction: Dec. 11, 2020 VOL 6, ISSUE 298 In our story: County budget revised for Coronavirus relief: Commissioners Bill Lee and Billy Moore approved a motion on the matter during their Dec. 8 meeting with little fanfare. Gallup Sun sincerely regrets the error.
Gallup Sun • Friday January 8, 2021
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Friday January 8, 2021 â&#x20AC;¢ Gallup Sun
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PUBLIC SAFETY
WEEKLY DWI REPORT Staff Reports Raulson Livingston Dec. 10, 10:37 p.m. Aggravated DWIÂ Gallup A n A r izona ma n wa s pulled over on Dec. 10 for dr iv ing over 70 miles per hour, well over the speed limit, according to deputies.Â
Raulson Livingston, 25, of Chinle, Ariz., told a deputy he was going to Walmart just after getting off work, but the officer noticed the man had bloodshot eyes and slurred speech. Livingston could not keep upright when he was asked to get out of the vehicle and also dropped his wallet. Liv ingston told the
deputy he had perhaps 12 to 14 ounces of Coors Light. The officer asked him to perform a variety of field sobriety tests. A t a r ou nd 10 :51 p.m ., Livingston was arrested. Even though he did not initially consent to a breath sample, he did later at the Gallup Police Department, where he posted .22, .21. He was transported to GIMC before being booked at McKinley Adult Detention Center, where he was charged
with aggravated DWI, speeding and registration to be exhibited on demand. Nathan Lloyd Yazzie Dec. 10, 7:46 p.m. Aggravated DWI Gamerco O n D e c . 10 , D e p u t y Terence Willie met up with a New Mexico couple driving in a red Chevy pick up truck after it was reported by the pa ssenger, a fema le, that there was a domestic violence
dispute between her and boyfriend Nathan Yazzie, 32, of Mentmore. Willie lea r ned that the truck belonged to the woman, Heather Muggins, who earl ier repor ted to d ispatch that Yazzie had a knife and she didnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t know where she was going. But once stopped, Muggins told Willie, â&#x20AC;&#x153;Weâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;re fine.â&#x20AC;? Willie told Muggins to
DWI REPORTSÂ | SEE PAGE 19
Perpetrators caught in El Rancho shooting Staff Reports
and fled the scene. On Jan. 6, Gallup Police Capt. Erin Toadlena-Pablo told the Sun that the parties in the Toyota Tundra truck had been identified. She did not release their names. The man who was shot in the torso was taken to a local hospital in critical condition. His identity has not been released.
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round 6:30 pm on D e c . 3 0, Ga l lu p police officers in the area of the El Rancho Hotel heard the sound of numerous gunshots. They saw a man reloading a firearm and ordered him onto the ground, where he was handcuffed. They determined that he had been shot in his right torso and they began rendering medical aid. On further investigation, they determined the man they handcuffed had been fi ring at two people in the parking lot of the hotel.
A picture of the El Rancho Hotel parking lot where a shooting occurred Dec. 30. Photo Credit: GPD Those two people were also armed and returned fi re. Before officers could determine their involvement, the two entered a white newer-model extended cab Toyota Tundra
Wash. neo-Nazi sentenced for threats against Jews Staff ReportsÂ
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member of the neo-Nazis was sentenced Dec. 9 by a federal judge in Wash. State for using intimidation and threats against journalists and others who were work i ng to ex pose anti-Semitism. Johnny Roman Garza, 21, a member of the Neo-Nazi group Atomwaffen Division, received almost a year and a half in prison, plus three years of supervised release for admitting to targeting his victims via an encrypted chat line before stalking one of them and using threats with a PUBLIC SAFETY
The truck that was believed to be involved in the Dec. 30 shooting in the El Rancho Hotel parking lot in Gallup. Photo Credit: GPD
homemade poster. According to the Department of Justiceâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s news release, on Jan. 25, Garza went to the home of an unnamed Jewish journalist and put up a poster containing the victimâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s name and address, warning â&#x20AC;&#x153;Your actions have consequences. Our patience has its limits.â&#x20AC;? The DOJ release said Garza explained to his conspirators that the plot was designed to have Jewish journalists, advocates and people of color â&#x20AC;&#x153;all
MAN ATTACKS JOURNALISTSÂ | SEE PAGE 15
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INDIAN COUNTRY
Navajo Police Department welcomes new officers from the Navajo Police Training Academy Staff Reports
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HINLE, A r iz. — The Nava jo Police Department started the new year by welcoming eight newly-commissioned officers from the Navajo Police Training Academy on Jan 2, during a graduation ceremony in Chinle, Ariz. The new officers took their oath of office before Honorable Judge William Platero after a pinning ceremony Saturday afternoon. The department’s new officers are Aaron C. Brown, Klyton Belone, Ryan Draper, Vanecia Valenzuela, Arrow Dosela, Henry Antonio, Jr., Nathaniel K. Watson, and Jasmine Peaches. Following their training at the academy, the officers will be assigned a field training officer who will provide
guidance and further training in the field during their first three months on patrol. The new officers will be assigned to either the Window Rock, Chinle, Crownpoint, or Kayenta police district. Despite the onset of challenges in the midst of a global pandemic, Class 55 persevered in becoming a new generation of police officers with the Navajo Police Department, demonstrating dedication and determination to serve their communities. Navajo Police Chief Phillip Francisco reminded officers to ref lect on the symbolic meaning of the police badge and encouraged the officers to lead with character and professionalism. “Although the badge is a powerful symbol and it is an honor to wear, of even greater
importance is the change to who you are inside, that no one can see. Even with your badge and uniform off, you now embody the ideals of duty, protection, selfless service, and warrior spirit. The badge does not give power, all the great things that you will accomplish will come from within you from now on.” Chief Francisco said. “Always wear your badge with honor and pride, but my challenge to you is to let your character and professionalism be what people see and respect.” Due to COVID-19, the graduation ceremony was closed to the public with family and friends witnessing the graduates’ milestone online via live stream, with congratulatory remarks provided by Navajo Nation President Jonathan Nez, Navajo Nation Vice-President
Navajo Police Training Academy Class 55 officers stand with Chief of Police Phillip Francisco after taking their oath of office on Jan. 2. From left: Chief Phillip Francisco, Officer Arrow Dosela, Officer Henry Antonio Jr., Officer Aaron Brown, Officer Ryan Draper, Officer Vanecia Valenzuela, Officer Jasmine Peaches, Officer Klyton Belone, Officer Nathaniel Watson. Photo Credit: Navajo Police Department Myron Lizer, Division Director Jesse Delmar, 24th Navajo Nat ion Cou nci l Delegat e Eugene Tso, Honorable Judge William Platero, and Navajo Nat ion Ch ief P ro secut or Jennifer Henry. Class 55 of the Navajo Police Training Academy is the fourth law enforcement class to graduate from the
academy since reopening in 2018. The academy will be hosting a recruit drive on Jan. 11 by appointment only. The new class of recruits is slated to begin training in March. For more information regarding Navajo Police Training Academy recruitment, please call Officer Wallace Billie at (928) 674-2520.
Navajo Nation EPA gets new executive director GOAL OF VALINDA SHIRLEY TO STRENGTHEN COMMUNICATION WITH NAVAJO PEOPLE Staff Reports
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INDOW ROCK, A riz. – Nava jo Nation President Jonathan Nez and Vice President Myron Lizer announced the appointment of Valinda Shirley as the new Executive Director for the Navajo Nation Environmental Protection Agency on Jan. 4. She replaces Oliver B. Whaley, who resigned in December to spend more time with his family. Shirley resides in Rock Point, Ariz. with her husband and children. She is Táchiinii and born for Tł’ízÍ łání. Her m a t er n a l g r a nd fa t her i s
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Friday January 8, 2021 • Gallup Sun
Valinda Shirley, appointed new executive director of the Navajo Nation Environmental Protection Agency Jan. 4. Photo Credit: OPVP Bit’ahnii and her paternal
EPA DIRECTOR | SEE PAGE 19 INDIAN COUNTRY
STATE & REGION
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Luján sworn in as U.S. Senator BECOMES FIRST HISPANIC SENATOR FROM N. M. IN MORE THAN 40 YEARS Staff Reports
for New Mex ico’s T h i r d Congressional District and the U.S. House Assistant Speaker during the 116th Congress.
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A SH I NGT ON,, D.C . — U. S . Senator Ben Ray Lu já n, D -N.M., was sworn in to serve as the next U.S. senator from New Mexico, taking the seat formerly held by Sen. Tom Udall, D-N.M. who did not run in the latest election. Following his swearing-in ceremony, Luján highlighted his priorities to address the COVID-19 pandemic and put New Mexico’s economy on the path to recovery. “I am humbled to serve as New Mexicans’ voice in the U.S. Senate, and I thank voters for entrusting me with this immense responsibility. I understand the importance of being responsive to my constituents, speaking directly and objectively, and acting with courage. I will always listen to my fellow New Mexicans and look forward to learning from them. “I follow in the footsteps of
He grew up in Nambé, a small farming community nor th of Santa Fe, bordered by the Nambé and Pojoaque Pueblos.
In a re-enactment, Cong. Ben Ray Luján, D-N.M., transitions to his new post as Sen. Ben Ray Luján, D-N.M., when he is sworn in by Vice President Mike Pence, Jan. 3 in Wash., D. C. Photo Credit: Lujan Communications giants like Tom Udall, D-N.M., Pete Domenici, R-N.M., Jeff Bingaman,D-N.M., and Dennis Chavez, D-N.M. Their example will serve as my North Star as I work in a bipartisan manner to find common-sense solutions that benefit all New Mexicans. “With our state facing an unprecedented public health and economic crisis, I will act with urgency to support
struggling families, small businesses, and communities. Working together, we can ensure that New Mexico’s brightest days are in front of us.” Luján is the fi rst Hispanic to represent New Mexico in the U.S. Senate since Joseph Montoya, D-N.M., who served from 1964 to 1977. Prior to his election to the Senate, Luján served as congressman
Gov. announces free at-home COVID-19 tests Staff Reports
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ew Mexico’s governor announced residents ca n access free COVID-19 tests they can administer themselves at home, with results as soon as 24 hours later. G o v. M i c h e l l e L u j a n Grisham said New Mexicans can order the saliva testing kits, regardless of whether or not they’re symptomatic or have come into close contact with an individual who tested positive for coronavirus. If they wish, residents can use Zoom to talk to a supervisor who can help administer the test before they mail it off to the lab for results. “We can drive down county positivity rates, help more businesses and workers get safely back on their feet, and keep more New Mexicans healthy,” Lujan Grisham said in a Dec. 22 news release. “But STATE & REGION
it all starts with you, and it star ts with getting a test. This is a very, very promising development.” Referring to the Department of Health’s color-coded system for tracking the number of coronavirus infections, Lu jan Grisham added that testing can get the state from a “red” to “green” status. Currently, McKinley and all other counties, except Catron, in the “red” phase, with a positivity rate of 5 percent or more a day, in addition to an average of eight daily cases or more per 100,000 people. In order for any area of the state to be designated as “green,”
average cases and positivity rates must be trending at the same rates in the opposite direction. According to the Department of Health’s website, McKinley County has a positivity rate of 19.4 percent and 134 cases per 100,000 people. New Mexico had a total of 149,984 positive COVID-19 cases as of Dec. 28. Health Secretary-designate Dr. Tracie Collins called testing is “an absolutely essential tool in our fi ght against the virus.” “When we know who’s positive, we can isolate the virus and cut down on transmission,” she said. “New Mexicans should have every confidence in the testing our state makes available.
AT HOME COVID TESTS | SEE PAGE 19 Gallup Sun • Friday January 8, 2021
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PED, partners aim to locate every disengaged student Staff Reports
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ANTA FE â&#x20AC;&#x201D; The Public Education Department and 13 New Mexico school districts committed themselves to fi nding thousands of New Mexico students who were enrolled last spring, but not this fall, in order to make sure they are safe and engaged in learning. The PED has calculated that more than 6,270 students may be unaccounted for based on attendance data reported
Governor issues executive clemency to 12 Staff Reports
to the agency as of Dec. 30. Thir teen school distr icts account for an overwhelming majority of that number, and superintendents from those districts met virtually with PED leaders to discuss what comes next. â&#x20AC;&#x153;This is a huge priority across the state and an allhands-on-deck partnership. Weâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;re going to dive deeply and see how many of them we can fi nd and support,â&#x20AC;? Public Education Secretary Ryan
Stewart said. The superintendents made clear that they were reaching out to disengaged students long before they were required to report the so-called â&#x20AC;&#x153;40th dayâ&#x20AC;? attendance figures to the state in late October. â&#x20AC;&#x153;All of us have done everything we can think of to reach out to these families,â&#x20AC;? Supt. Arsenio Romero of Deming said. â&#x20AC;&#x153;Is there anything else in our toolbox that we havenâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t done in the past?â&#x20AC;?
Katarina Sandoval, Deputy secretary of the New Mexico Public Education Department. Photo Credit: PED
DISENGAGED STUDENTS | SEE PAGE 19
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A N TA F E â&#x20AC;&#x201C; G o v. Michelle Lu jan Grisham issued pardons Jan. 6, invoking her power of executive clemency for 12 people convicted
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of crimes in New Mexico. The over whelming ma jority of those pardoned were guilty of non-violent offenses. T he of fen ses i ncluded drug possession, auto burg la r y, forger y a nd f raud, among others. All but one of the offenses dated back more than a decade; some to the 1980s. Five of the individuals had applied for clemency under the Martinez administration. Four of them received no answer to their applications. The latest issua nce of executive clemency follows
CLEMENCY | SEE PAGE 19 Friday January 8, 2021 â&#x20AC;˘ Gallup Sun
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â&#x20AC;&#x153;Weâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ve w r itten letters; weâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ve called; weâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ve knocked on doors,â&#x20AC;? Supt. Sue Cleveland from Rio Rancho said. PED and its partner, the Graduation Alliance, sent letters through the mail. Early replies indicated some students have enrolled in private schools or Bureau of Indian Education schools; some are
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HEALTH & ENVIRONMENT
Earthweek: Diary of a Changing World
By Steve Newman
Week ending Friday, December 25, 2020 Walled Nature The accelerated construction of the U. S.- Mex ico border wall over the past year has disrupted animal movements, caused mountains to be dynamited and toppled century-old saguaro cactus. “Interconnected landscapes that stretch across two countries are being converted into industrial wastelands,” Randy Serraglio of the Center for Biological Diversity in Tucson told The Associated Press. Field cameras at southeastern Arizona’s San Bernardino National Wildlife Refuge have recently captured 90% fewer movements of animals like mountain lions, bobcats and javelinas. “This wall is the largest impediment to wildlife movement we’ve ever seen in this part of the world,” said Myles Traphagen of the Wildlands Network.
Earthquakes Much of northeastern Japan was jolted by a magnitude 6.5 temblor. • Earth movements were also felt along the Iran-Turkey border, and in Sicily and far western Colorado.
Recalculated Heat The world may have less time than expected to curb carbon emissions and avert a life-threatening climate catastrophe after it was discovered that manmade greenhouse gases may have already warmed the planet by 18% more than predicted. “Climate
-63° Verkhoyansk, Siberia
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+110° Nullagine, W. Australia
Bird Blackout change hasn’t suddenly got[ten] worse. It’s just our estimate of how much warming has improved,” says Tim Osborn of Britain’s University of East Anglia. The fi ndings come as 2020 appears to be vying with 2019 as the second-warmest year on record. The British Met Office predicts 2021 is still likely to at least be among the six warmest years on record, chilled a bit by the ongoing moderate La Niña ocean-cooling in the Pacific.
A New Zealand Sout h Isla nd v i llage has switched off all of its streetlights in an attempt to stop young birds from crash-landing on roadways. Wildlife experts say the Westland petrel fledglings are possibly mistaking the streetlights of Punakaiki for the bioluminescent fi sh they typically eat. The town hosts about 6,000 breeding pairs of the rare birds each March, which is celebrated with a festival. But the introduction of
Yasa
blue-white LED lights last year has some local bird watchers believing that it’s confusing the seabirds even more than usual, causing them to crash onto roads and sometimes be struck by cars.
Tropical Cyclones Late reports from Fiji say that Super Cyclone Yasa killed two people as it f lattened entire villages on the South Pacific country’s second-largest island of Vanua Levu on Dec. 18. Yasa was the third
Category-5 cyclone to hit Fiji since 2016. Cyclone Winston killed 44 people that year and destroyed tens of thousands of homes. • Minimal Tropical Storm Krovanh formed briefly near the Spratly Islands of the South China Sea.
Hawaiian Eruption Plumes of ash and gases soared above Kilauea volcano on Hawaii’s Big Island as fountains of lava illuminated the night sky around the summit caldera. Residents in the area were warned to stay indoors and avoid exposure to falling ash. A magnitude 4.4 tremor shook the south flank of the volcano about an hour after the eruption began. Kilauea last erupted in 2018, destroying more than 700 homes while spewing massive amounts of lava. Dist. by: Andrews McMeel Syndication ©MMXXI Earth Environment Service
Antarctic Rumble Scientists working in A ntarctica say they have recorded more than 30,000 tremors just off the Antarctic Peninsula since August. The University of Chile’s Seismological Center says the strongest registered a magnitude of 6 in an area where tectonic plates and microplates meet between the South Shetland Islands and the peninsula. This has caused the islands to separate from Antarctica about 6 inches per year, almost twice the average rate.
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Rehabilitated crash victims being prepared for release back into the wild. Photo Credit: Bruce Stuart-Menteath/Westland Petrel Conservation Trust HEALTH & ENVIRONMENT
401 E. Nizhoni Blvd. Gallup, NM 87301 (505) 863-4452 Gallup Sun • Friday January 8, 2021
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Earthweek: Diary of a Changing World
By Steve Newman
2020 Year in Review Ice Losses Sea ice surrounding the North Pole wa s at a record low extent for October due to unusua lly wa r m A rctic Ocean temperatures. Danish researchers say the ice was slow to re-form following the summer’s melt, and coverage was at the lowest of the past 40 years of satellite data.
Un iver sit y of E xet er s ay t hei r st ud ies revea l l ig ht pollution causes changes to animal behavior and physiology, especially hormone levels and patterns of waking, sleeping and activity.
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Earthquakes D e s pit e a l l of the misery suffered a rou nd the world from COVID-19 and various natural disasters, the magnitude of deaths and damage from earthquakes was at the lowest level in memory during 2020. • The most deadly temblor killed 118 people around the Turkish city of Izmir on Oct. 30, where many buildings collapsed. • At least 41 people died when a massive quake struck southeastern Elâzıg province
on Jan. 24. • Ten people perished on Feb. 23 when a sharp temblor struck the Iran-Turkey border region. • Ten people were found dead in the rubble of a magnitude 7.4 quake in Mexico’s Oaxaca state on June 23.
Avian Tragedy Scientists bel ieve t hat t he u ntold t housa nds of m i g r a t o r y bi r d s t h a t fell from the sk y dead or dy ing across pa r ts of the
sout hwe s t er n U. S. i n September were probably victims of smoke from the West’s catastrophic firestorms. The songbirds could have either choked in the massive pall of toxic smoke and gas or used up their fat reserves trying to fly around it.
Greenhouse Earth Scientist s pre d ic t t h a t E a r t h’s atmosphere will soon contain the same high level of carbon dioxide that existed
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at the peak of the Pliocene E poch wa r mt h 3 m i l l ion years ago. That’s when temperatures were 5 to 7 degrees Fahrenheit warmer and sea levels were 65 feet higher.
Massive Hole Magnetic Mystery
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Scientists a re S struggling to understand a new weakening of Earth’s magnetic field in a region that stretches from S out h A mer ic a t o A f r ic a a nd i s c au si ng t ech n ic a l problems in some of the satellites orbiting the planet. The anomaly is allowing the in ner Va n A llen radiation belt to dip to an altitude of about 120 miles, sometimes exposing satellites to several minutes of higher-than-norma l radiation. A stronauts have reported disturbances in their eyesight, known as cosmic ray visual phenomena, when passing through it.
Light Pollution
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T he plu n ge i n hu m a n a c t iv it ie s due to the pandemic brought the longest and most pronounced quiet period of seismic noise in history. T he relat ive qu iet h a s allowed scientists to detect prev iou sly h idden ea r t h quake signals.
Humanity’s per va sive u se of a r ti f icia l l ig ht is causi ng widespread impacts on the world’s animals and plants, and researchers say it should b e l i m it e d w h e r e p o s s i ble. Scientists at Britain’s
The ozone hole in the stratosphere above A nta rctica reached its annual peak on Oct. 1, which scientists say was the largest and deepest in 15 years. This was in contrast to an unusually small and short-lived ozone hole in 2019, caused by unusual weather conditions.
Tropical Cyclones The 2020 Atla ntic hur r icane season ended with a record-breaking 30 named storms and the second-highest nu mber of hu r r ica nes ever observed. One feature of this year’s cyclones is that many of the same areas were hit by them again and again. This was especially true in the central U.S. Gulf Coast, t he Ph i l ippi nes, Viet na m, Japa n a nd t he Korea n Peninsula. Dist. by: Andrews McMeel Syndication ©MMXXI Earth Environment Service
(505) 722-4401 • www.fbcgallup.com The South Atlantic (magnetic) Anomaly is expanding across the Atlantic from South America to southern Africa. Image: DTU Space (Denmark)
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Friday January 8, 2021 • Gallup Sun
HEALTH & ENVIRONMENT
OPINIONS
New Mexico is on track to have the weakest methane emissions regulations in the nation LAGUNA PUEBLO GOV. WILFRED HERRERA, JR., URGES THE STATE TO STRENGTHEN ITS PROPOSED AIR QUALITY RULES By Wilfred Herrera, Jr. High Country News
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he w e l l - b e i n g o f t he n a t u r a l world is centra l to the identity of the p e o pl e o f t h e P u e bl o o f L a g u n a a nd t r iba l people t h r ou g hout New Mex ico. Our a ncestors ca me to L a g u na generat ion s a go when drought forced them t o m ig r at e f rom t he Fou r Cor ners a rea. A s we str ugg le w it h severe d roug ht a g a i n t o d a y, c o n n e c t e d to hu ma n- cau sed cl i m ate c h a n ge , no t h i n g i s mor e impor ta nt tha n protecting ou r cl i m a t e, ou r a i r, ou r water, a nd our people. G o v. M i c h e l l e L u j a n Gr isha m, D, ha s ou r complete support for her efforts to ma ke New Mex ico a nationa l leader i n comba t i n g oi l a nd ga s pol lu t ion. Now, we c a l l on her env i ron ment a nd n a t u r a l resou rces agencies — t he New Mex ico Env i ron ment Depa r tment a nd Energ y Minera ls a nd Natura l Resou rces Depa r t ment — to help her step up to t he cha l lenge by enacti ng t he mo s t prot ec t ive met h a ne r ules in the nation. Metha ne is a potent greenhouse gas that, in the shor t ter m, is more than 80 t i me s more h a r m f u l t h a n ca rbon dioxide, because it absorbs more energ y. In New Mex ico, oil a nd gas operations release more tha n 1 million metr ic tons of methane every year. With the Trump administration’s rol lba ck of feder a l met ha ne a nd other air pollution r ules, it’s clea r we need to act for the protection of our people. I n New Mex ico, oi l a nd ga s operations relea se more tha n 1 million metr ic tons of methane ever y year. New Mexico needs effective a ir pollution a nd OPINIONS
Wilfred Herrera, Jr. is Governor of the Pueblo of Laguna and completed a two-year term that ended Dec. 31, 2020. He served as Vice Chairman of the All Pueblo Council of Governors beginning Jan. 1, 2020 and now serves as Chairman. The APCG is made up of 20 Pueblos in New Mexico and Ysleta Del Sur, El Paso, Tex. Photo Credit: High Country News met h a ne reg u lat ion s t h at require oil a nd ga s compan ies to cut metha ne em is sions a nd lea k s. T h is w i l l stop energy waste a nd protect our air and climate for future generations. I n s t e a d , a s t hey s t a nd n ow, Ne w M e x i c o’s p r o posed metha ne reg u lation r u le a nd a i r qua l it y r u le s wou ld be t he we a ke s t i n the nation, w ith loopholes exempting 95% of the wells in New Mexico from regulation. This is unacceptable. For t u n a t ely, t her e a r e still a few months to close these loopholes in upcomi n g d r a f t pr opo s a l s , a nd com mu n it ies a cros s t he s t a t e a r e s p e a k i n g up t o ensure that the f ina l r ules fulfill Gov. Lu jan Grisham’s goa l of establishing mea ningful r ules for regulating methane production and air qua lity regulations. In New Mexico’s largest oi l a nd g a s cou nt ie s , a i r qua l it y conti nues to dete r iorate. Pollution from oil a nd ga s operat ion s i n t he Northwest has risen significantly, and we’re experiencing longer, hotter summers,
Laguna Pueblo, New Mexico, one of the six villages that make up Laguna Pueblo on the southern edge of the San Juan Basin. A new draft rule includes exemptions for low-producing stripper oil wells that are littered throughout the basin. Photo Credit: dreamstime
which lead to wildfires, and further exacerbate air-qualit y problems. Unless s t a t e met h a ne r u le s a nd o t h e r a i r- p ol lu t io n r u le s a re st reng t hened, we ca n ex pect to see more respirator y disease like asthma and emphysema in the near ter m, a nd even more d i re long-term impacts from climate cha nge. T he problem is even more acute for ou r neig hbor s i n Sa n Ju a n Cou nt y, home to ma ny Nava jo commu n it ie s. More t h a n h a l f t he Na t i ve A mer ic a n s i n that county — about 24,600 people — live within a mile of a well site. In 2014, NASA discovered a methane cloud t he si ze of Delawa re over t he Fou r Cor ner s reg ion, t he h ig hest concent ration of atmospher ic metha ne in the United States. St rong, comprehen sive a i r pol lut ion a nd met ha ne r u les a re cr it ica l a nd
overdue. Accord i ng to a NA SA pr e s s r ele a s e, t h i s cloud ca me from met ha ne lea k s i n nat u ra l ga s product ion a nd processing equipment i n New Mex ico’s Sa n Jua n Basin, the most active coalb e d m e t h a ne pr o d u c t io n area in the countr y. Strong, comprehen sive a i r pol lu tion a nd metha ne r ules a re cr itica l a nd overdue. Si nce t he d ay s of u r a nium mining spills and cont a m i n a t ion, com mu n it ie s a nd I nd igenou s v i l lages like Laguna have bor ne the br u nt of i ndu st r ia l pol lution. New Mexico’s environment and natural resources agencies now have a n oppor tunity to cha r t a better course for our state by f i na lizi ng r u les that close loopholes a nd ensu re that t he h i s t or ic pr oblem s of environmental injustice are addressed. The dra ft r ules a re
s i m ply i n a d e q u a t e. T hey h a v e s e r io u s f l aw s w i t h exemptions that wou ld do l i t t le t o c o m b a t c l i m a t e cha nge a nd w i l l leave too ma ny New Mex ica n s — e s peci a l ly Nat ive people, ch i ld ren, a nd t hose l iv i ng in poor, r ural communities — v u lnerable to a ir pollut ion, tox ic chem ica l s a nd s er iou s he a lt h pr oblem s . A s the state considers r u le s t o cut met h a ne a nd a ir pollution by the oil a nd gas industr y, it must ensure that all wells are regulated a nd that a ll New Mexica ns b e n e f it f r o m t he pr o t e c tions these new rules offer. If that doesn’t happen, we w i l l fa i l ou r a ncestor s. It i s t hey who fou g ht t hei r whole lives to ensure a susta inable future. But mor e i mpor t a nt ly, we w i l l fa i l ou r ch i ld ren, for it is they who will carr y on ou r cultu re a nd ou r people.
Gallup Sun • Friday January 8, 2021
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Taking aim at hunting revenues By Crystal R. Diamond, R-Dist. 35 N.M. Senator
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ecently, a report was publ i shed by t he Legislative Finance Council regarding a funding method utilized by New Mexico Department of Game and Fish to compensate landowners for conservation practices essential to maintaining critical habitat provided to wildlife on their private property. The report prompted Sen. Martin Heinrich to write a critical letter outlining his disapproval, as well as an article by the Albuquerque Journal. Designed with input from n u m e r o u s s t a ke h o l d e r s , the Elk Pr ivate La nd Use System has taken the NMDGF decades to perfect and has been credited a s a model system among other western hunting states. EPLUS provides landowners with elk hunting authorizations through a system that
determines the level of wildlife benefit their property is producing. The landowner must apply for EPLUS and NMDGF conduct a physical inspection of the property to ensure the wildlife benefit. Once the authorization is awarded the landowner is free to sell, or give, that permit to whomever they wish. Contrary to what Senator Heinr ich a lleges, a lter ing the current EPLUS program will have the most damaging impacts on sma ll acreage proper ties. Approximately 38% of the current EPLUS recipients own land, 500 acres or less, and a large percentage of those are 100 acres or less. A great number of these property owners rely on revenue created from the sale of their EPLUS tags as part of their family’s annual income. These permit sales can represent $5,000 -$10,000 or more of their a n nua l ea r n i ngs, depending on the property location and number of tags. T hese a re not wea lt hy
absentee owners, they are hardworking rural families with great financial burdens, especia l ly i n t he cu r rent COVID climate. Additionally, the impact to rural land values should be considered. Removing elk permits from a property is likely to reduce the market value of that land 40% - 50% ba sed on cu r rent ma rket conditions. That doesn’t just impact the EPLUS landowner, but all of the properties in the rural areas around them as comparable prices tumble and all land values subsequently decrease. To put that in perspective, if legislation or regulations changes were presented to decreased property values in the metro areas by 40% - 50%, there would be substa ntia l push back and the proposed changes would likely stall right from the start. Why should rural New Mexicans be subject to the likely financial ruin that urban New Mexicans are not? Although rural economies
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will bear a greater weight, the state as a whole will suffer great loss in revenues generated through tourism, as hunting & fishing remains the highest grossing outdoor recreation tourism business i n t he st ate, a n i ndu st r y already on the brink of collapse as a result of the ongoing pandemic. Spea k i ng of revenue shortfalls, it’s important to note that NMDGF does not receive any money from the state general fund. The agency’s annual budget is funded through hunting and fishing license sales and excise tax dollars produced on the sale of hunting and fishing equipment. Wildlife conservation in New Mexico is entirely funded by hunters and anglers. Criticism and potential ill-adv ised changes of the EPLUS system threatens a process that heavily benefits natural resource conser vat ion ef for t s. It a lso benefits the annual budget of a self-funding state agency,
Senator Crystal Diamond, R- Dist. 35, was sworn in to the N.M. Senate Jan. 5. She represents Hidalgo, Sierra, Luna, and portions of Doña Ana counties. Photo Credit: nmlegis.gov in-state hunters, our crippled tourism industry, and our damaged state economy specifically economies of our especially vulnerable rural communities. Furthermore, it highlights the disconnect between urban minded lawmakers a nd the reality of what is taking place in rural a rea s of our state. A llow me to narrow that divide by extending a bit of good advice and cowboy logic from those of us in rural and remote New Mexico – if it ain’t broke, don’t fix it.
Marijuana is back on the table at the NM Legislature By Mike Daly Contributor
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he A lbuquerque Jou r n a l put s out a week ly i n ser t on Mondays titled Business Outlook. This week’s edition was almost entirely about possible cannabis legalization at the upcoming N.M. legislative session. Marijuana legalization in some form seems a sure thing. But we need to pay particular attention to how this sensitive issue is addressed by our legislature. “L ega l i ze Today for a brighter tomorrow” is the title of five full pages of advertising by Ultra Health who label themselves New Mexico’s #1 Cannabis Company in the 28 December Business Outlook.
The articles included, while mildly informative, are almost entirely about proper marketing of the product and how much tax the state can collect. It should be noted that Mexico just legalized possession of small quantities of marijuana and it is also legal in Canada. I agree it should be legalized, but for the same reason I feel all drugs should be. Prohibition simply does not work. The prohibition of alcohol in the 1930s and our more recent and much longer experience with the so-called “war on drugs” demonstrates it in spades. We need to legalize to control the use and spread and take away the incentive
MARIJUANA | SEE PAGE 17 OPINIONS
Report: Data show depth to which N.M. families with children are struggling FOOD INSECURITY, DEPRESSION AMONG THE BIGGEST PROBLEMS By Sharon Kayne Communications Director NM Voices for Children
also seen for families of color in all of the data points relative to how non-Hispanic white and Asian families are faring. LBUQUERQUE, — “When kids aren’t getting New Mexico per- enough to eat, every aspect of forms well on access their lives is threatened – their to health care, but is ability to learn, their physical falling short on food security and emotional health, their and mental wellness, according development,” James Jimenez, to the recent household data executive director for New in Kids, Families and COVID- Mexico Voices for Children, a 19: Pandemic Pain Points member of the KIDS COUNT and a Roadmap for Recovery, network, said. “With food a 50-state report developed by insecurity so high, it’s no wonthe Annie E. Casey Foundation der that parents are feeling analyzing how families are far- stressed and hopeless. While ing during the COVID-19 crisis. the state passed signifi cant This KIDS COUNT report relief measures in the recent examines data from weekly special legislative session that surveys conducted by the U.S. will defi nitely help, it’s clear Census Bureau that demon- that Congress needs to step strate how families across the up and pass more relief for country are challenged to meet those who are hardest hit by basic needs during the public the pandemic and in January health crisis while manag- the governor and Legislature ing school, work, and mental must commit to long-term health. The Foundation fi nds solutions to these solvable that the concurrent health and problems.” economic crises are exacerbatThe U.S. Census data used ing trends that show vulnera- in the report shows that 20% of ble families are unable to fulfill New Mexico households with basic needs. Disparities are children sometimes or often do
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MAN ATTACKS JOURNALISTS | FROM PAGE 7 wake up one morning and fi nd themselves terrorized by targeted propaganda.” A plea deal was accepted for Garza, who was charged with federal crimes of cyberstalking, mailing threatening communications and interfering with federally-protected activities against those he sought to harm. Brian Moran, U.S. attorney for the Western District of Washington, said Garza “delivered a hateful, threatening poster — spreading fear and anxiety. Such conduct has no place in our community.” Assistant Attorney General Eric Dreiband noted the Nazis’ role in World War II in order to point out that even today, “Nazi-inspired threats and violence continue to plague this nation” decades after the war’s end. “ Th reats motivated by OPINIONS
not have enough to eat. Only one other state – Mississippi – has as high a rate, while the national average for food insecurity is 14%. New Mexico also has the highest rate – 27% – of adults living in households with children who feel down, depressed or hopeless. Mississippi and Pennsylvania also have a rate of 27% in this category, while the national average is 21%. Besides food insecurity and mental health concerns, the report looks at whether families believe they will be able to make their next rent or mortgage payment and whether they have health insurance. New Mexico does as well or better than the nation as a whole on these two indicators, with 18% of adults with children having slight or no confidence in paying rent or mortgage – which is the same as the national rate
– and 11% who currently do not have health insurance – which is better than the national rate of 12%. The Foundation repor t includes several policy recommendations, including: putting racial and ethnic equity fi rst by engaging community stakeholders to determine what is most needed; guaranteeing that any vaccine will be available without cost as a factor; leveraging federal behavioral health programs through increased federal investment and state participation; expanding a variety of safety-net programs, including unemployment insurance, Temporar y Assistance for Needy Families, and housing assistance; and boosting funding for schools. T he A n n ie E. Ca sey Foundation’s report, Kids, Families an d COVID -19:
Sharon Kayne Pandemic Pain Points and a Roadmap for Recovery, is available online at https:// www.aecf.org/. NM Voices for Children is including this and other data on how the pandemic is impacting families in its annual New Mexico KIDS COUNT Data Book, which will be released in January, just prior to the start of the 2021 legislative session.
rel ig ious i ntolera nce a re unacceptable, and so, too, are threats aimed at those who work to end such discrimination,” he said. “The Justice Department will continue the fight against neo-Nazi-related threats and violence, and is committed, fully to investigating and prosecuting anyone who commits hate crimes.” Earl Camp, FBI Seattle acting special agent in charge, commended the work of the bureau, which included task forces in four cities, in addition to the Seattle Police Department, for investigating the neo-Nazis’ activities in this case. “Protecting our communities from terrorism, both domestic and international, is a top priority for the FBI,” Camp said. “We are proud of the collaborative nationwide efforts of the FBI’s Joint Terrorism Task Forces and other law enforcement partners to hold these individuals accountable for their actions.” Gallup Sun • Friday January 8, 2021
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‘Wonder Woman 1984’ improves on its predecessor By Glenn Kay For the Sun
RATING: OUT OF RUNNING TIME: 151 MINUTES This film was released in theaters on Dec. 25 and is also be available for streaming on HBO Max. Over the past few years, there have been dozens of movies based on comic books. Generally speaking, recent features from the DC Universe (that include superheroes like Superman, Batman, Aquaman and the Suicide Squad) have more often than not come up short in comparison with their Marvel counterparts. Still, one of the more well-received DC efforts was the 2017 film based on the Wonder Woman character. While it was an improvement on some of the previous movies, this reviewer still thought that it had its fair share of issues. Thankfully, the new sequel Wonder Woman 1984 corrects many of the first film’s problems. The story jumps forward in time from the World War I era to the 1980s, where Diana Prince aka Wonder Woman (Gal Gadot) has taken up a position as a senior anthropologist at
the Smithsonian Museum. Still smarting from the loss of Steve Trevor (Chris Pine) six decades earlier, she keeps an emotional distance from those around her. When a set of ancient and unusual artifacts appears at the museum, Diana and timid archeologist Barbara Minerva (Kristen Wiig) take particular note of an unusual stone. It is soon revealed that grasping the rock can grant its user any wish they desire. S u d d e n l y, t h e y a r e approached by oil magnate Max Lord (Pedro Pascal), who also takes a specific interest in the item. Before long, Lord has control of the dangerous artifact and several characters have their desires fulfilled. However, these wishes come with a dark and tumultuous twist. The movie does have a lengthy set up as it introduces several new roles and places its protagonist in a completely new environment. Admittedly, while the first set of wishes procured from the stone don’t initially have dramatic ramifications, the story does eventually get cooking and events become considerably more exciting in the second half of the film. And the extended first section does allow for the Minerva and Lord characters to make an impression. While they’re not the deepest and most complex parts, performers Wiig and Pascal are very charismatic and make
Wonder Woman (Gal Gadot) fights bad guys in the White House in “Wonder Woman 1984.” Photo Credit: HBO Max the most of any opportunity to add an extra depth wherever they can. They’re both insecure and f lawed individuals, which helps make them relatable to a degree, even when they’re out to do harm. In fact, these two new figures are far more memorable than supporting characters detailed in the previous feature. The action scenes are impressively shot and edited, including a well-orchestrated and elaborate car chase and a lengthy fight in the halls of the White House in which all of the players take their knocks. One of this reviewer’s beefs
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with the original was that the protagonist rarely seemed to be in grave danger. This sequel rectifies the problem by making the villains just as powerful as Wonder Woman. And on an emotional level, Gadot is given more of an opportunity to show some range after being faced with a personal dilemma related to her wish. Of course, there are a few clunky elements. There are also a lot of gags throughout that poke fun at the ‘80s. A couple of them are amusing, but a little really does go a long way. Additionally, the fi nale is a bit ungainly and the movie wraps things up too briskly (given what occurs during the
climax, it’s remarkable how quickly everything goes back to normal). However, this is a comic book movie with fantastic elements that can’t all be neatly wrapped up with perfect logic. In the end, this sequel features a solid cast and memorable new characters. It also ups the emotional stakes and presents more elaborate action sequence thrills than the previous film did. So, in this reviewer’s eyes, that makes Wonder Woman 1984 a superhero flick that delivers the goods and actually in many aspects is an improvement over its predecessor. V ISIT: W W W. CINEMASTANCE.COM
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MARIJUANA | FROM PAGE 14 for illegal marketing, just as we have rather successfully done with alcohol except that we do not control alcohol advertising. T he ca n nabis we a re talking about here is a powerful drug. While stoned, users experience an emotionally stimulating env ironment during which otherwise dull sights, sounds, tastes and thoughts become intensely rich. These effects are very tempting. Unfor tunately, there are other effects that are not so desirable. It clouds thinking. In youth it impairs brain development. Regular use creates a fog in the brain and impairs one’s ability to take in information. Other effects include disrupting motor skills and, like alcohol, reducing one’s inhibitions. Our society has a big problem with drug and alcohol addition and those problems are closely related to crime. In McKinley County, of the hundreds charged with misdemeanor offenses one former County Staff Worker estimated that about 70% of these hundreds of cases
involved drug and alcohol-impaired people. And most are repeat offenders. Meanwhile our treatment center can handle about 30 people at a time and there is very little follow-up care. Using marijuana taxes to cover the cost of regulating it and any balance used to care for those in treatment would pay larger dividends than any short-term gain from placing them into the general fund, which, of course, is what many of the legislators want to do and why Ultra Health is marketing this idea in their ads. Nor w ay a nd S we de n revised their criminal justice system to emphasize making the criminals good citizens capable of taking care of themselves and their recidivism rate went from over 70% to 20%. We could do the same thing. As for drug legalization, Portugal did this in an intelligent manner and their addicted population dropped from 100,000 to 30,000. When we think of all the crime and violence associated with the drug trade and the cost of our “war” and incarceration of addicts, doesn’t it make sense to take a broader look beyond tax advantages?
Statement by Senator Martin Heinrich, D-N.M. “President Trump incited this assault on democracy and the rule of law, but he will not succeed. That is not how we do things in America. “A s soon a s order i s restored, we are going to go back and do our jobs and certify the election. In two weeks, President-elect Joe Biden and Vice President-elect Kamala Harris will be sworn into office—reflecting the will of the American people. “I urge all Americans— regardless of who they voted for—to reject and condemn the violence we’ve witnessed today [Jan. 6] and this brazen attempt to trample on our American values.”
Statement by Senator Ben Ray Luján, D-N.M. “America’s democracy has prevailed. Despite the efforts of insurrectionists who sought to destroy our democracy and attack our republic, Congress fulfi lled its constitutional duty to count the Electoral College votes and defend the will of the American people. On January 20th, Joe Biden and Kamala Harris will become the next President and Vice President of the United States. “Today [Jan. 6], we witnessed the deadly consequences of President Trump’s lies and the furthering of those lies by congressional Republicans who objected to the count. The erosion of American democracy must be stopped and never allowed to happen again.”
Blu-ray/DVD Roundup for January 8, 2021 By Glenn Kay For the Sun
W
elcome back to another year of new Blu-ray and DVD releases. This is actually a busy week with plenty of features arriving in a wide variety of genres. So, since you can’t or likely shouldn’t go out to the movies this week, be sure to give one of these titles a try! BIG NEW RELEASES! 12 HOUR SHIFT: A junkie nurse in Arkansas has an incredibly long and strenuous shift a fter h e r c ou s i n a p pr o a c he s her with an elaborate scheme. The relative and his dangerous pals want to pull a heist on the hospital where the lead works and steal various organs to sell on the black market. She attempts to assist in the robbery, but things do not go as planned and the entire group
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finds themselves in over their heads. Response toward this independent horror/comedy was generally positive. A small contingent did find the storyline in poor taste and couldn’t find humor in the execution of the concept. However, the majority called the film an entertainingly mean little B-movie with great performances. It stars Angela Bettis, David Arquette, Chloe Farnworth, Mick Foley, Kit Williamson and Nikea Gamby-Turner. A**HOLES: A THEORY: This documentary investigates some horrible recent worldwide trends. The filmmakers note the resurgence of authoritarianism, the venomou s a nd cruel comments being posted on social media and point out a loss of civility, as well as a general and sweeping narcissism across the world. Using interviews
conducted with experts and identifying some of the traits contributing to becoming an a**hole, the film shows what has made it a popular movement … and what can be done in order to stunt this behavior. Critics were very upbeat about the feature. They all stated that it tackled a dark subject in an amusing and humorous way instead of preaching. They also felt it delivered strong points that would leave audiences thinking. John Cleese appears as one of the many interview subjects and shares his thoughts on the topic. EV EN A FTER EVERYTHING: Trouble arises out of the blue for a wealthy housewife living a privileged life on the East Coast. After her brother-in-law appears for an unexpected visit, his observations cause the protagonist to question everything in her life. Specifically, she becomes more aware of the dysfunction in her marriage. The lead begins to wonder if it isn’t too late to change things and challenge the status quo.
This independent feature
DVD/BLU-RAY | SEE PAGE 18
Statement by Rep. Teresa Leger Fernandez, D-N.M. “Domestic ter ror ist s attacked our Capitol today and attempted to undermine our democracy, they failed. Some Republicans sought to overturn an election decided by the people, they failed. We performed our constitutional duty early this morning [Jan. 7] and certified the election results. The people’s vote for President prevailed. What we do now will defi ne who we are as a Nation. We must focus Congress’ work on creating opportunities for our communities. We must focus on beating this pandemic and fi xing our economy.” On Jan. 7 Leger Fernandez r e l e a s e d t h e fo l l o w i n g statement: “This President is a threat to the people and our democracy. We are resolved to do everything we can to remove him from office. I urge the Cabinet to invoke the 25th amendment. We never know what this man is going to do. It’s always scary and yesterday it was deadly.”
Gallup Sun • Friday January 8, 2021
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DVD/BLU-RAY | FROM PAGE 17 was completed in 2018 and has been available for streaming for a little while, but is now being released on disc. Unfortunately, there are no reviews available for it, so those interested will have to go in without any knowledge of what will occur. The cast includes Alice Callahan, Chet Carlin, Donald Corren and Kate Dalton. I’M TOO OLD FOR THIS SH*T: A HEAVY METAL FAIRY TALE: In the early 1980s, a heavy metal band from Florida called Siren, made local headlines and was expected to become a hugely successful musical act worldwide. This documentary details how bad luck, as well as shady business deals and tensions within the band, caused things to fall apart before they hit the big time. The movie catches up with the band today and follows the members’ reactions after a fan locates and approaches them 35 years after the breakup. The members are hired to appear and perform at a notable German heavy metal festival. Can the band members get over their differences and mount a comeback? This picture is debuting on disc, which means that no one has seen it yet. As a result, there is no critical consensus about the feature. LOVE AND MONSTERS: A young man has been forced to live underground for seven years after giant monsters take control of the planet. The lonely man uses a radio to communicate with other settlements and comes into contact with his old girlfriend. They fall for each other again over the airwaves
and the protagonist decides to ventu re aboveground a nd travel the 80 miles to her colony to reconnect. Along the way, he must deal with countless beasts. The press gave this feature solid marks. A very small group complained that the jokes didn’t land and that the movie climaxed on a sappy note. However, most called the project unique and adventurous with likable characters who charmed them. It stars Dylan O’Brien, Jessica Henwick, Michael Rooker, Dan Ewing and Ariana Greenblatt. MOMENTS IN SPACETIME: Here’s another effort that is arriving without much fanfare despite having won an award or two at film festivals. According to the press synopsis, the story follows a Thai immigrant adopted into a North American family after a tsunami in her homeland. Many years later, she must look after her dementia-suffering adopted grandfather. When she discovers that her birth mother may not have died in the disaster, she teams up with the elderly man to find the truth and decide where her future lies. Again, there aren’t many write-ups currently available, although there is one currently online. The reviewer states that the movie is effective, but omits important background details early on that could have engaged viewers in the story earlier. The cast includes John Rhys-Davies, Patty Srisuwan and Sam Gittins. MY DAD’S CHRISTMAS DATE: A 16-year-old decides
to help her lonely father out and find him a companion two years after the passing of her mother. Also hoping to reconnect with her dad in the process, the protagonist decides to take the initiative and creates profiles for him on multiple dating platforms. Her efforts create a bit of strain in her relationship with her pop, but he agrees to give it a try with sometimes comical results. This UK production has only received a handful of notices so far. Mo s t of t hem h a d a mixed-positive response. They described the film as being a well-acted and sweet look at a father and daughter dealing with grief, but also complained that it does suffer from a predictable and formulaic structure. It features Jeremy Piven, Olivia-Mai Barrett and Joely Richardson. YELLOW ROSE: An undocumented 17-year-old Filipina immigrant living in Texas drea ms of becom i ng a country music singer. When her mother is taken away by Immigration and Customs Enforcement, the teenager is forced to go on the run. Now on her own, she travels to Austin in hopes of finding a new start and making her dreams come true. The press gave this music-based drama very high praise. Admittedly, a small percentage thought the movie was a little too pleasant and feel-good in tone, diminishing its dramatic impact. Regardless, the majority of reviewers were taken with
the lead performance and stated that the movie and its message was very sweet and affecting. It stars Eva Noblezada, Lea Salonga, Arlene Cavazos, Kelsey Pribilski and Gustavo Gomez. BL ASTS FROM THE PAST! Kino isn’t holding back this week, with a number of older titles getting high-definition upgrades. Beach Red (1967) is a WWII movie about U.S. Marines and Japanese forces preparing for military conflict. As they begin their attacks, the men on both sides experience traumatic and horrifying memories of the violence they have already seen on the battlefield. The Blu-ray includes a theatrical trailer. Captain Newman M.D. (1963) follows a doctor working at a stateside psychiatric hospital during WWII. He tries to use hu mor a nd compassion to deal with the many patients struggling with various psychological issues. This well-regarded feature stars Gregory Peck, Tony Curtis, Angie Dickinson, Eddie Albert, Robert Duvall and many others. This Blu-ray comes with a film historian audio commentary and a trailer. If you’re looking for B-movie fun, then you have plenty of options. Scorpion has the Mexican killer shark movie, Tintorera (1977). A blatant knock-off of Jaws, this title features two shark-hunters trying to stop the aquatic threat from chowing down on vacationing beachgoers. The disc includes
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Friday January 8, 2021 • Gallup Sun
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a film expert commentary and a trailer. Code Red is releasing The Black Gestapo (1975) on Bluray. This feature is about a black man in the Watts neighborhood of Los Angeles forming a vigilante squad to protect locals after the Mafia moves into the area. The movie has been exclusively restored in 2K from the original camera negative and arrives with interviews with stars Charles Robinson, Rod Perry and Charles Howerton. A commentary with Robinson and Perry is also included, as is a trailer for the movie. Finally, Warner Archive also has a new made-to-order Blu-ray available for purchase. It’s for The Man Who Would Be King (1975), an historical adventure feature about two power-seeking soldiers who decide to set themselves up as leaders of Kafiristan (which is now part of Afghanistan). The movie stars Sean Connery, Michael Caine and Christopher Plummer. YOU KNOW, FOR KIDS! Here are a couple of titles that kids may enjoy: Groundhog Dave: Season 1 Little Historians: Our Founding Fathers ON THE TUBE! And here are the latest TV-themed releases. If you like Hallmark romance flicks, this is your week to go DVD shopping! The 100: The 7th and Final Season Christmas at Dollywood (Hallmark) Chr istmas in Rome (Hallmark) Christmas Town (Hallmark) Groundhog Dave: Season 1 Hallmark 2-Movie Collection: Love in the Forecast and Romance in the Air (Hallmark) In the Key of Love (Hallmark) Masterpiece: Elizabeth is Missing (PBS) Mystery Road: Season 2 Nature: Pandas – Born to Be Wild Nature: Santa’s Wild Home (PBS) NOVA: Nature’s Fear Factor (PBS) Time for You to Come Home for Christmas (Hallmark) A Va l e n t i n e ’s Ma t c h (Hallmark) Vera: Set 10 V ISIT: W W W. CINEMASTANCE.COM COMMUNITY
EPA DIRECTOR | FROM PAGE 8
to our administration and look forward to working alongside her,” Nez said. Shirley earned a Bachelor’s Degree in Biochemistry from the University of New Mexico and graduated as the valedictorian from Rock Point High School. Her previous pr ofe s s io n a l e x p e r ie nc e also includes serving as an Environmental Compliance Te c h n i c i a n w i t h S WC A Environmental Consultants, Acting Business Manager and business consultant with Rock Point Community School, Env i ron menta l Specia list with the Navajo Nation EPA Waste Regulatory, Community Involvement Coordinator for the Phase 2 Removal Site Evaluation Trust, and the School Board Vice President for Rock Point Community School. In her previous role with t he A ba ndoned Ur a n iu m Mines projects, Shirley spearheaded the Northeast Church Rock Mine Site and the Tronox
sites in Cove and Tse Tah, Ariz. She also advised the U.S. EPA concerning Navajo Nation laws and Diné Fundamental Law as Applicable or Relevant & Appropriate Requirements used in the clean-up standards at the Mariano Lake, Mac and Black Mine Sites located in New Mexico. She also coordinated w ith the Nuclea r Regulatory Commission on a Source Material License amendment for the United Nuclear Corporation mill site in the Eastern Navajo Agency. “I hold the Office of the Executive Director of the Navajo EPA in the highest regard, and I have the utmost respect for the agency and its employees. Since 1992, Navajo EPA has been the regulatory authority that safeguards Diné bikéyah dóó Nihookaa’ Dine’é. In my experience working with the agency, it has served as an integral part of government by ensuring Nihimá Nahasdzaan dóó Nihit’a a’ Yádiłhił a re kept clean to the highest of
standards for our seventh-generation grandchildren,” Shirley said. A s t he new Execut ive Director, Shirley said her goals include strengthening direct lines of communication with the Navajo people through community involvement and Ké, ensuring that currently funded AUMs progress to a level of clean-up with tangible results, and strategizing a way for the Navajo Nation to address the illegal dumping of refuse. “I will accomplish these goals by exercising stable leadership to create a team environment in the agency. Communication and Ké are also crucial in fulfi lling these goals. I know this because these ideals are ingrained in me and practiced as a school board member representing four Navajo communities in the Northern Navajo Agency. I am familiar with fiduciary trust responsibilities and passionately believe that projects,
legislation, and meaningful change can happen through tea mwork a nd col labora tion from a ll gover nment branches,” Shirley stated. “I view U.S. EPA and other federal agencies as partners of the Navajo EPA, and I also believe in the inviolability of our Navajo Nation laws. Navajo Nation laws and regulations are in place to protect the Diné, especially when federal regulations become lax in their standards. In the past, only federal laws were used as across-the-board clean-up standards that failed in protecting the Diné. Therefore, it is imperative to safeguard a f fected com mu n it ies by ensuring that Navajo Nation laws a nd regulations a re adhered to,” she added. Valinda Shirley’s appointment is subject to confi rmation by the Navajo Nation Council, in accordance with the Navajo Nation Code. Council Delegate Kee Allen Begay, Jr. will sponsor the bill for confi rmation.
Mexico, if as many people get tested as possible. “I hope New Mexicans take advantage of this simple and accessible means of testing – and continue to undertake all COVID-safe behaviors in their day-to-day lives,” he said. All anyone needs to get
a free coronavirus test is an email address, photo ID and internet access, particularly if they want to access a supervisor to help them take it. Those tested will be asked for basic identification information, including date of birth and their insurance provider.
Though even if someone does not have health insurance, they can still get access to a test. The tests will be mailed to individuals who request it and then sent via UPS prepaid package to the lab. Results will be available 24 to 48 hours
after it arrives there. This at-home testing is made pos sible t h roug h a public private partnership between the state and Vault Health. More information about the at-home tests can be found at learn.vaulthealth.com/nm/.
To obtain better contact i n for m a t ion, t he Hu m a n Services, Children, Youth and Families and Early Childhood Education and Care departments are cross-checking
names on PED’s list with their own databases. HSD’s cross-check turned up about 5,0 0 0 matches; CYFD’s cross-check turned up about 4,300 students who had
previous contact of some kind with that agency. “Our goal is to understand where these students are living, what they’re doing, whether they need services, and what
their plans are for schooling — present and future. If they need assistance re-enrolling, we’ll provide that, too,” PED Deputy Secretary Katarina Sandoval said.
The governor’s decision to pardon is “unrestrained by any consideration other than the conscience and wisdom and the sense of public duty of the governor.” The governor’s pardoning power extends to all offenses committed under state law other than the offenses of impeachment and treason. The governor does not have aut hor it y to pa rdon conv ictions for v iolations of
municipal ordinances or convictions from another jurisdiction, such as convictions from other states and convictions under federal law. The gover nor’s pa rdon restores certain fundamental rights, such as the right to vote and the right to hold public office and other positions of public trust. Pa rdons a re filed with the Office of the Secretary of State.
They are: Jerry Abney – forgery; James Bell – possession of marijuana with intent to distribute; Sarah T. Gallegos – possession of controlled substance; William Goolsby – burglary; Dennis Grube – possession of controlled substance; Bla nca Her na ndez – possession with intent to distribute;
Michelle Jacquez – auto burglar y, credit card theft, po s s e s sion of cont rol led substance, larceny, tampering with evidence, identity theft; Byron Marshall – fraud; Karen Monroe – trafficking controlled substance; James Sullivan – possession; Leonard Romero – trafficking controlled substance; Julian Salaiz – possession.
after drinking six miniature shots of Fireball. Ya z z ie per for med sevwait while he searched Yazzie. eral field sobriety tests and When asked, Yazzie told failed, at which point Willie Willie he had been driving informed him he was placing from Farmington to a motel him under arrest.
Yazzie posted test samples of .32,.28,.28 at t he Gallup Police Depar tment before bei ng t ra n spor ted t o t he McK i n ley Cou nt y Adult Detention Center. He was booked on charges of
a g g ravated d r iv i ng wh i le intoxicated, being in possession of an open container of alcohol in the truck, and driving without a license. Wi l l ie concluded h is report by saying there were
no injuries in the incident and there was no domestic violence dispute, according to Yazzie and Muggins. The knife was not used and was kept by police. Muggins’ truck was later returned to her.
grandfather is Ta’neeszhahnii. Prior to her appointment, she served as the Senior Remedial P rojec t M a n a ger for t he Navajo Nation EPA Superfund Program coordinating on-site activities for environmental cleanup or remediation projects to ensure compliance with Navajo Nation and federal environmental laws, standards, regulations, and requirements including Diné Fundamental Law. “Wit h her upbr i ng i ng, education, and professional experience, we are excited and confident that she will do a great job leading the Navajo Nation EPA. Her traditional upbringing combined with her formal education in biochemistry provides for a unique and very knowledgeable perspective on many issues related to protecting our environment for generations to come. We welcome her
AT HOME COVID TESTS | FROM PAGE 9 Human Services Secretary David Scrase echoed what Collins said about knowing the status of the infection in every community in New
DISENGAGED STUDENTS | FROM PAGE 10 being home-schooled, and others have moved out of state.
CLEMENCY | FROM PAGE 10 19 pardons issued by Lujan Grisham in June 2020. Those had been the first pardons issued in the state since 2012. Article V, Section 6 of the New Mexico Constitution provides that the “governor shall have power to grant reprieves and pardons, after conviction for all offenses except treason and in cases of impeachment.”
DWI REPORTS | FROM PAGE 7
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Gallup Sun • Friday January 8, 2021
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N.M. student-athlete secures victory in national high school football game By Dominic Aragon Sun Correspondent
G
RANTS — A Grants H i g h School student-athlete played a crucial role in helping his team win a national football game in Florida earlier this month. Bryan Hernandez, a senior at Grants High School, helped his team, dubbed the White Tea m i n t he A l l-A mer ica Classic, secure a 24-13 victor y in Orla ndo Ja n. 2 by catching a late 4th quarter touchdown. “It was awesome getting to play football again,” Hernandez told the Gallup Sun. “It felt like I had a lot on the line, but I feel like it made me work harder.” A s a s l o t r e c e i v e r, Hernadez’s stats for the game
Miyamura Patriot Rudy Romero (25) faces off with Grants Pirate Bryan Hernandez (2) at Angelo DiPaolo Memorial Stadium in Gallup Sept. 6, 2019. File Photo included two passes for 24 yards and one touchdown. “Watching the ball come down, I thought ‘I’ve got to catch this one,’” Hernandez said of the touchdown pass.
In its VOL 6 ISSUE 295 on Nov. 20, 2020, the Sun reported that Hernandez was the fi rst New Mexican to be selected to play in the All-America Classic football game.
Bryan Hernandez works with former NFL wide receiver Preston Dennard at a football camp in Albuquerque in Sept. 2020. File Photo Fundraising efforts from fa m i ly member s a nd h i s employer helped make the trip possible. Hernandez made the trek to the East Coast with his brother Brandon and his fiancé Alyssa, spending several days in the Sunshine State practicing with his team for the big game. Hernandez, 17, remains the only Land of Enchantment participant in the event’s threeyear history. “The game was fast-paced. It felt like what I imagine a college game to be like — not only the competitiveness but the playbooks as well, the playcalling, it was all next level,” Hernandez said. Hernandez said the lesson he learned playing the game was that there is always someone faster and more athletic, but that you still have to give it your all.
Hernandez’s performance in the game helped the student-athlete earn an offer to play football at Papago Junior College in Mesa, Ariz. It remains unclear at the time of publication if high school New Mexico athletes will be able to participate in sports during the Spring 2021 semester. There was no football season last fall, due to the novel coronavirus. If the game was Hernandez’s fi nal one as a high school athlete, he says he considers it a success. Hernandez offered the following advice for aspiring student-athletes. “Always believe in yourself. If you’ve got dreams, shoot for them,” Hernandez said. “Just k now t hat con f idence comes with preparation. If you prepare, and if you put in work, you will see results.”
We believe in ideas. We believe in passion. We believe in dreams. We believe in you.
www.nmhu.edu 20 Friday January 8, 2021 • Gallup Sun
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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
Red Roof Inn 3304 W. Hwy 66, Gallup Apply in person or call: (505) 879-7611 *** 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 LEGAL/PUBLIC NOTICES
Ford C-Max Hybrid Only 13,000 miles Was $17,725 Now $15,500
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
2017 Ford Fusion SE AWD Only 35,100 miles Loaded with Sunroof Was $20,275 Now $16,840
2019 Ford Ranger Certified Used Vehicle comes with additional Ford warranty at no charge! Like New! Only 14,238 miles Was $35,695 NOW $31,000 Gurley Motor Co. 701 W. Coal Ave, Gallup, NM (505) 722-6621 www.gurleymotorford.com FOR SALE For Sale Steel Shipping Container 20 ft. x 8 ft. x 8 ft. Big enough to store a car. It is water and critter proof. $2500 call Brent 505-387-2572 HELP WANTED NIGHT AUDITOR Experience Preferred CLASSIFIEDS
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 *** Public Notice Public Notice is hereby given that Gallup Business Improvement District, Inc. 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. Publish: Gallup Sun January 8, 2021
*** COUNTY ASSESSOR ORDER NO. 20-122 NOTICE OF REQUIREMENTS TO REPORT CERTAIN MATTERS RELATING TO PROPERTY VALUATION AND CLAIMING EXEMPTION FROM PROPERTY TAXATION The County Assessor hereby publishes notice to property owners, pursuant to Section 7-38-18 NMSA 1978, as follows: 1. All property subject to valuation for property taxation purposes not valued by the Assessor in 2020 for property taxation purposes must be reported to the Assessor no later than the last day of February 2021, unless it is not subject to valuation for property taxation purposes in 2021. The report must contain the required information and be on a form that is obtained from the Assessor’s office. Section 7-38-8 NMSA 1978. 2. If you have made improvements to real property during 2020 and the improvements cost more than Ten Thousand Dollars ($10,000), the improvements must be reported to the Assessor no later than the last day of February 2021. The information required and the form may be obtained from the Assessor’s office. Section 7-388© NMSA 1978. 3.All real property owned by any nongovernmental entity and claimed to be exempt from property taxation under the provisions of Paragraph (1) of Subsection B of Section 7-36-7 NMSA 1978 shall be reported
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EMAIL: GALLUPSUNLEGALS@GMAIL.COM DUE: TUESDAYS 5 PM for valuation purposes to the appropriate valuation authority. If a change in eligibility status or ownership of the property has changed, the change shall be reported no later than the last day of February 2021. Section 7-38-8.1 NMSA 1978. 4. If you own property that has decreased in value during 2020, and that property is subject to valuation for property taxation purposes, you must report the decrease in value to the Assessor no later than the last day of February 2021. The report must contain the required information and must be on a form that is obtained from the Assessor’s office. Section 7-38-13 NMSA 1978. 5. If you believe that your real property is entitled to headof-family exemption, veteran exemption or disabled veteran exemption from property taxation, you must apply to the Assessor for exempt status no later than thirty (30) days after the mailing of the County Assessor’s notices of valuation in order to be entitled to the exemption from taxation in 2021. Exceptions: If an exemption from taxation was in effect for 2020 and the basis of the exempt status or use is unchanged from that year, application for exemption need not be made for 2021. If you have previously been granted an exemption and now have a change in ownership or status you must notify the Assessor of the change no later than the last day of February 2021 of the change. If required, application for exemption must contain the required information and must be on a form that is obtained from the Assessor’s office. Section 7-38-17 NMSA 1978. 6. Property subject to valuation is presumed to be nonresidential and will be
so recorded by the Assessor unless you declare the property to be residential no later than the last day of February 2021. If your property has changed in use from residential to nonresidential or from nonresidential to residential use you must declare this status to the Assessor no later than the last day of February 2021. The declaration must contain the required information and must be in a form that may be obtained from the Assessor’s office. Section 7-38-17.1 NMSA 1978. 7. If you are a person who is sixty-five (65) years of age or older or disable, and whose “modified gross income” was not greater than $35,400 in 2020 and you own and occupy a single-family dwelling you may be eligible for a limitation on the taxable value of your residence. The limitation of value specified in Subsections A, B and C under Section 7-36-21.3 NMSA 1978 shall be applied in the tax year in which the owner claiming entitlement files with the county assessor an application for the limitation. The application must contain the required information and must be on a form that is obtained from the Assessor’s office. Section 7-36-21.3 NMSA 1978. 8. If your land was valued in 2020 in accordance with the special method of valuation for land used primarily for agricultural purpose, and the land is still used primarily for agricultural purposes, you need not reapply for that special method of valuation in 2020, but it is no longer used primarily for agricultural purposes, you must report the change to the Assessor no later than the
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Gallup Sun • Friday January 8, 2021
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CLASSIFIEDS | FROM PAGE 21 last day of February 2021. If your land was not valued in accordance with that method of valuation in 2020 and it is now used primarily for agricultural purposes, application must be made under oath, in a form and contain the information required by department rules and must be made no later than thirty (30) days after the mailing of the County Assessor’s notices of valuation in order to be entitled to the exemption from taxation in 2021. Section 7-36-20 NMSA 1978. 9. If you own “livestock” that is subject to valuation for property taxation purposes, you must report such livestock to the Assessor. All such livestock present in the county on January 1, 2021 must be reported to the Assessor no later than the last day of February 2021. If the livestock is transported into the county after January 1, 2021, it must be reported to the Assessor no later than the first day of the month following the first month in which the livestock has been present in the county for twenty (20) days. The report must contain the required information and must be on forms obtained from the Assessor’s office. Section 7-3621 NMSA 1978. 10. If you own a manufactured
home [that was not previously assessed] and it was present in the county on January 1, 2021, you must report it to the Assessor no later than the last day of February 2021. The report must contain certain required information and must be on a form obtained from the Assessor’s office. Section 7-3626 NMSA 1978. THIS NOTICE IS ONLY A BRIEF STATEMENT OF THE PROVISIONS OF SECTIONS 7-38-8, 7-38-8.1, 7-38-13, 7-38-17, 7-38-17.1, 7-36-7, 7-36-21.3, 7-3620, 7-36-21, and 7-36-26 NMSA 1978, and related Taxation & Revenue Department Regulations. It is not intended to reflect the full content of these provisions, which may be examined at the office of the County Assessor. Done this 30th day of November 2020 in Santa Fe, New Mexico. Santiago Chavez, Director Property Tax Division Publish: Gallup Sun January 8, 2021 January 15, 2021 January 22, 2021 *** LEGAL NOTICE PUBLIC NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that The Gallup Housing Authority will conduct its monthly Board of Commissioners meeting to be held on Friday, January 15th
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Name: ___________________________________ Address: _________________________________ City/State/Zip: ____________________________ Phone: ________________ (for billing purposes only) Mail Check to: Gallup Sun, PO Box 1212, Gallup, NM 87305 • Fax: (505) 212-0391 • Email: gallupsun@gmail.com Credit Card #: _________________ Exp: _______ 3-4 digit code: _________ Billing zip: _________ Pay By Phone: (505) 722-8994 The Gallup Sun is distributed weekly, on Fridays. Forms received after Wednesday, the subscription will start the following Friday.
22 Friday January 8, 2021 • Gallup Sun
2021, at 9:00 am MST. Meeting will be conducted at the Gallup Housing Authority, 203 Debra Dr. Gallup, New Mexico 87301. A copy of the agenda and/or specific agenda items may be obtained at the Gallup Housing Authority office. This is a public meeting except for items to be considered in closed session. A general public comment period is allowed at the end of the business portion of the meeting. Please be advised the Gallup Housing Authority will comply with all Federal and State COVID-19 protocols, including groups of no more than five [5] people in any given area, social distancing amongst attendee’s, and not allowing anyone who is sick or exhibiting signs of COVID -19 into the public meeting area. Documents are available in various accessible formats and interested parties may also participate by phone. Any citizen or person may make public comments to the Board on matters involving Gallup Housing Authority operations. They will be allowed 2 to 3 minutes to make such comments. Note: Grievances by tenants or against employees must be processed through appropriate board approved policies and procedures and will not be heard directly by the board under the public comment period. If you are an individual with a disability who is in need of a reader, amplifier, qualified sign language interpreter, or any other form of auxiliary aid or service to attend or participate in the hearing or meeting, please contact the Gallup Housing Authority at (505) 722-4388, at least (1) week prior to the meeting or as soon as possible. Public documents, including the agenda and minutes, can be provided in various accessible formats. Please contact the Gallup Housing Authority, if a summary or other type of accessible format is needed. Gallup Housing Authority Gallup, McKinley County, New Mexico By:/S/ Alfred Abeita, Chairman of the Board Publish: Gallup Sun January 8, 2021 *** LEGAL NOTICE PUBLIC NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that at 6:00 P.M. on Tuesday, February 9,
2021, the Governing Body of the City of Gallup will hold a public hearing on the proposed Transfer of Ownership of Dispenser Liquor License #0572 from Allsup’s Convenience Stores, Inc. d/b/a Allsup’s #222 to BW Gas & Convenience Retail, LLC d/b/a Allsup’s #102222, 112 Arnold Street; Gallup, New Mexico. In accordance with the public health order issued by the New Mexico Department of Health, the public hearing will be physically closed to the public; however, the public will have access to the public hearing via the following technology service: Facebook Live stream through the City of Gallup’s Facebook Page: https://www. facebook.com/CityOfGallup/
1000. You are further notified that unless you enter an answer in said cause within thirty (30) days after the last publication of this notice, a judgement by default will be entered against you. IN WITNESS THEREOF, I have hereto set my hand and seal of said court this 06 day of January 2021.
__________________________________ ________________ _ _______ ___ _ _ ___ _ ___ __ _____ ____ _ Deputy Clerk
Publish: Gallup Sun January 8, 2021 January 15, 2021 January 22, 2021 ***
Members of the public who would like to testify at the public hearing, may call the Gallup City Clerk’s Office at 863-1254. Requests to testify may be made in advance or during the public hearing. The Director of the Alcohol and Gaming Division has granted preliminary approval for this Application. CITY OF GALLUP, NEW MEXICO By: /s/ Alfred Abeita II, City Clerk PUBLISH: Gallup Sun Friday, January 8, 2021 Friday, February 5, 2021 *** STATE OF NEW MEXICO COUNTY OF MCKINLEY ELEVENTH JUDICIAL DISTRICT COURT MINDY R. SNYDER, Petitioner. v. KELLY JIM, Respondent. No. D-1113-DM-2020-00167 NOTICE OF PENDENCY OF ACTION TO: KELLY JIM You are hereby notified that an action has been filed against you in the above-entitled cause of a dissolution of marriage. The Petitioner is represented by an attorney and their name is the Law Office of Dorene A. Kuffer, P.C. (Dorene A. Kuffer), address is 500 4th Street NW, Suite 250, Albuquerque, NM and telephone number is (505) 924-
ELEVENTH JUDICIAL DISTRICT COURT COUNTY OF McKINLEY STATE OF NEW MEXICO In the Matter of the Estate of PAUL JEROME LANDAVAZO, Deceased. No. D-1113-PB-2020-00043 NOTICE TO CREDITORS PAUL J. LANDAVAZO, JR. has been appointed Personal Representatives of the Estate of PAUL JEROME LANDAVAZO, 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. Dated: 12/23/20. PAUL J. LANDAVAZO, JR. MASON & ISAACSON, P.A. James J. Mason Attorneys for Personal Representatives 104 East Aztec Avenue Gallup, New Mexico 87301 (505) 722-4463 Published: Gallup Sun January 8, 2021 January 15, 2021 January 22, 2021 CLASSIFIEDS
COMMUNITY CALENDAR JANUARY 8 - JANUARY 14, 2021 21 FRIDAY, January 8
SCI-FI FEST 2021
OFPL is hosting a week of Sci-Fi related programs and fun to celebrate Sci-Fi Day. Check out our Sci-Fi collection of books and movies. Scan our social media each day for Sci-Fi facts and posts. There will also be a special Instagram Sci-Fi scavenger hunt. Join us today for Fun Friday as we present Sci-Fi Trivia. There will be opportunities for Sci-Fi prizes all week long. For more information: libtrain@gallupnm. gov; (505) 863-1291 for more information.
CHILDREN’S LIBRARY EVENT – TOTALLY TRUE, NON-FICTION IN THE NEW YEAR
Visit YouTube @galluplibrary to view episodes of the OFPL “Totally True” series where we’re exploring the OFPL non-fiction collections in books and online. Gale eBooks is the topic. Videos are posted Wed., Fri a@ 11 am SATURDAY, January 9
SELF-CARE SATURDAY
1 pm on Facebook@ galluplibrary. to make your DIY cosmetics from items around your home. Each ingredient list will be available on our website ofpl.online. All Self-Care episodes are available after the livestream. Visit YouTube, @galluplibrary. This week we will focus on all-natural mascara. For more information: jwhitman@gallupnm.gov; (505) 863-1291. MONDAY, January 11
SCHOOL BOARD MEETING
1 pm-2 pm (Student Support Center Board Room; 640 S. Boardman).
CREATIVE CORNER
4 pm @ YouTube @gallup library. Create your own art using materials found around your home! Courses are geared towards individuals approximately 15-years of age and older. Supply kits are available at OFPL on a firstcome, first-serve basis and to request supplies go through the Online Request Form. This week we will focus on Sewing 101. (Learn the basics of hand-held sewing and sewing machine techniques and stitch patterns.) Videos are posted weekly For more information: jwhitman@gallupnm.gov; (505) 863-1291. TUESDAY, January 12
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. CALENDAR
nmhealth.org NM Dept of Health 1919 College Drive
EVERYBODY IS TALKING TUESDAYS! – RESTAURANT REVIEWS AND NEW YEAR IDEAS
4 pm YouTube, @galluplibrary. Join the creative genius of the Octavia Fellin Public Library and our unusually talented neighbors for booktalks, author-talks, movie-talks, pop-talks, food-talks, maker-talks, tech-talks.
TECH SHORT TUESDAYS
5 pm @galluplibrary. for “How to” tech shorts. This month we are focusing on Tech Products and emerging tech. For more information: libtrain@gallupnm.gov or call (505) 863-1291.
VIRTUAL ARTIST TALK
7 pm Shannon Gurley O’Donnell will give a talk LIVE on the @gallupARTS Facebook page. WEDNESDAY, January 13
TECH TIME EDUCATION AND TRAINING: RESUME WRITING
4 pm. YouTube @galluplibrary. Need help with your resume? For more information: libtrain@gallupnm.gov or call (505) 863-1291.
CHILDREN’S LIBRARY EVENT – TOTALLY TRUE, NON-FICTION IN THE NEW YEAR
Visit YouTube @galluplibrary to view episodes of the OFPL “Totally True” series where we’re exploring the OFPL non-fiction collections in books and online. Generation Brave by Kate Alexander is the topic. Videos are posted Wed., Fri a@ 11 am THURSDAY, January 14
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 Drive
VIRTUAL CRAFTS HANGOUT
Registration deadline is 11:59 pm to join the Virtual Crags Hangout – an afternoon of chatting and crafting on Jan. 16 at 1 pm. Visit ofpl.online. For more information: jwhitman@gallupnm.gov; (505) 863-1291.
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 focus on Martin Luther King Jr. Day Crafts. ONGOING
VIRTUAL ESCAPE ROOM 2
All Day. The time for another virtual escape room
CALENDAR
is here! Access our digital escape room collection on our website http://ofpl.online or through social media @ galluplibrary. Escape Room 2 will be posted beginning Jan. 2. Registration is not required, play anytime at home. For more information: libtrain@ gallupnm.gov; (505) 863-1291 for more information.
WE READ, WE TALK BOOK CLUB REGISTRATION
We are be reading Trail of Lightning by Rebecca Roanhorse for our January session. Discussions will be held Jan. 21 at 6 pm and Jan. 30 at 3 pm. Both sessions will be held via Zoom. Participants must attend one session to keep their book. For more information: childlib@gallupnm.gov; (505) 863-1291.
OFPL VIRTUAL JURIED ART SHOWCASE
Call to Artists! OFPL is seeking visual art from community artists in the first OFPL Virtual Juried Art Showcase. 2021 Virtual Theme: “Art for ArtSake.”. Submit 1-3 high quality image(s) of 2D or 3D medium visual arts for OFPL’s Virtual Juried Art Showcase. Visual art may include drawing, painting, photography, sculpture, ceramics, jewelry, weaving, and more. Juried art showcase is divided into the following age categories: 0-4, 5-7, 8-12, 13-17, and 18+. Please see showcase requirements below: Submission deadline: Feb. 28 by 11:59 pm. Send all submissions to jwhitman@gallupnm. gov by deadline. For more information: jwhitman@gallupnm.gov; (505) 863-1291.
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.
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 505-726-4285 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 informa-
tion: (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. 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) 863-1291 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 11 am-5 pm. and will assist with curbside checkout. Beginning Jan. 9, there will be Saturday curbside pick-ups only from 12 pm-4 pm and must be scheduled in advance. New requests will not be processed on Saturdays. 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) 9:30 am-11:30 am; 1 pm-3:30 pm (Drive-Up) @ Pueblo Pintado (F) 9 am-12pm Drive Up @ Thoreau Clinic (M, F) 9 am-4 pm @Gallup Indian Medical Center (M-F) Car-based testing located on Government Circle Dr. (Next to Emergency Dept.) @Gallup Indian Medical Center 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, T, Th, F) 1 pm-4 pm @ Inscription House Health Center (Wed.)
NAVAJO IHS FLU VACCINE SCHEDULE
8 am-5 pm @Chinle Comprehensive Health Care Facility (M, T, W, F) 1 pm-5 pm Drive-Thru @ Chinle Comprehensive Health Care Facility (Th) Flu vaccinations are given in the Outpatient department. 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) 8 am-4 pm @ Crownpoint Healthcare Facility (M, T, Th, F) appointments only – (505) 786-6270 @ Crownpoint Healthcare Facility (Wed.) 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 January 8, 2021
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24 Friday January 8, 2021 â&#x20AC;¢ Gallup Sun
COMMUNITY