Gallup Sun ● May 26, 2023

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For Sale

ER MAY’S TEACHTH OF T H E M ON Pg. 14

1512 Grandview KW Realty Gallup Living 309 E. Nizhoni Blvd Gallup, NM 87301

Office 505-488-2344 Call Mike Mazel for a showing.

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VOL 9 | ISSUE 426 | MAY 26, 2023

THE ALCOHOL PROBLEM

Community members gather to discuss a major issue in Gallup, McKinley County. Story page 4

GALLUP FUN!

Gallup Sun • Friday May 26, 2023 1

Basic Budgeting & Financial Literacy, Part 1 Richard F. Kontz, Executive Director, Gallup Housing Authority Inflation is creating tough times for many people. – some have lost jobs or have reduced income which requires us to tighten our belts with regard to how we use our money. Limited funds require less spending. The key is using what limited funds we have to continue to meet our basic needs. Therefore, GHA wishes to host a series on “Basic Budgeting and Financial Literacy”.

There is a verse in the bible which states: “My people suffer for lack of knowledge”. So, I want to share some basic knowledge which will benefit all.

[1] – Why manage Money – Why Plan? – The answer is very simple “Everything you need to live requires money”. Your standard of living depends upon financial resources available and how you manage those financial resources. And, “Failure to plan is simply Planning for Failure”.

[2] – How to set New Vision and Goals – First, define the box you live in now – limited education, no money to meet all my needs, living paycheck to paycheck, living in an abusive relationship which inhibits growth, bad credit, etc. Then, define what you would like your future box to look like – get the education you need to move to the next level, seek employment opportunities which pay more, seek counseling and support to have better relationships, have a good credit score. Lastly, identify the specific task, activity or steps to get from the current box to the future box and put these into SMART Goals.

[3] What are S-M-A-R-T Goals? – Goals are statements of what you want to achieve. This is how you will reach your vision for the future. It is best to set them in time frames: Within 3 – 6 months, I want to get my spending under control; within 1 year I want to get my GED since I didn't finish High School and maybe get in the local branch college; within 3-5 years I want to save for a down payment on a car; within 5 – 10 years I want to be financially secure where I don't have to live paycheck to paycheck. Set goals that are S – Specific, M – Measurable, A – Achievable, R – Results-Oriented and T – Trackable.

[4] Planning for Life Events – Events [good or bad] happen in life so it is wise to plan for them. For example: Getting married, getting divorced, having a child, seeking more education, car repairs and maintenance, losing a job or getting a new job which may required moving, buying a home or selling a home, major illness or death and retirement. These are all things that happen and “cost” money whether we like it or not. So, it is best to have a plan on how those additional expenses will be covered.

[5] Establishing a “Rainy Day” fund – The key to managing additional costs for “Life Events” is planning. Remember: “Failure to plan is simply Planning for Failure”. You need to set aside some funds for the occurrence of such events just in case they happen. For instance: If you lose your job, do you have enough funds saved to cover your bills and expenses until you get another job? Let's say your take home pay is $900 per month and you monthly expenses are $800, and you expect it will take 4 months to find another similar or better paying job. So, you need to save $800 X 4 = $3,200 to cover that period of time. And, you can save $50.00 per month as long as you are employed, so divide $3,200 by $50 and it will take you 64 months to reach that goal. In closing, this may seem like a lot but it is achievable.

It is all a matter of knowing how to manage limited resources. Believe me, I speak from experience. I hope this helps you and comments or questions are welcome.

Located at 203 Debra Drive in Gallup, NM – (505)722-4388 Housing Applications may be requested by email:

GHA.Main@galluphousing.com

NEWS

LOCAL NEWS

Educating on the consequences of alcohol Know the facts about alcohol GALLUP ALCOHOL POLICY ALLIANCE HOLDS INFORMATIONAL, STRATEGIC MEETING

By Molly Ann Howell Managing Editor

G

allup and McKinley County have a wellknown alcohol problem. The Sun reports weekly on DWIs, with some offenders having seven, eight, or even nine offenses.

Across New Mexico, an average of five people died every day of alcohol-related causes in 2020.

The Gallup Alcohol Policy Alliance has debated the alcohol problem and strategizing ways to improve it since 2016.

Now they’re bringing the public into the discussion by hosting a “Community Conversation” event May 23 at the El Morro Events Center.

Dr. Jenny Wei, a local doctor who is board-certified in addiction, facilitated the discussion.

In an interview with the Sun, she explained why she wanted to educate the community on the risks of alcohol.

“I think it’s impossible to ignore that New Mexico has the highest rate of alcohol-related deaths and McKinley County is the county with the highest rates, even multiple times higher than the state overall. We see those in our local

hospitals, and it’s impossible to ignore the problem,” Wei said.

New Mexico Department of Health Alcohol Epidemiologist Garry Kelley began the event by sharing information about alcohol and how it affects McKinley County.

When it comes to alcohol-related deaths, the NMDOH divides the statistics into two categories: acute and chronic.

Chronic deaths include cancers or other long-term diseases caused by excessive alcohol use, while acute is defi ned as things that happen suddenly, such as car accidents caused by drunk driving.

McKinley County’s chronic deaths are three times higher than the rest of New Mexico and acute cases are two times higher.

Part of the discussion at the meeting focused on the strategies McKinley County could use to help prevent alcohol-related deaths. Kelley provided some examples of what has worked for other municipalities across the nation. His suggestions included increasing the alcohol tax, regulating how many outlets can sell alcohol in the county, keeping restaurants and bars accountable if any of their patrons get

into accidents after drinking at their establishment, and enforcing age restriction on alcohol consumption.

Kelley also reminded everyone at the meeting of New Mexico’s current liquor laws.

The state gives local governments the authority when it comes to alcohol license zoning. It also limits the days and times alcohol can be sold.

In May 2021, a law was changed in Gallup to bring the county up to par with the state laws. The law changed so that alcohol is now sold in Gallup on Sundays, except for between the hours of 7 am to 9:59 am.

A s for liquor licenses, Gallup does have a problem. The city currently has 30 active liquor licenses, and the state liquor board recommends Gallup have only 11.

To compare, the liquor board recommends 282 licenses for Albuquerque, and it currently has 387.

WHO’S TO BLAME? A large part of the discussion during the meeting focused on who was to blame for the city and county’s major alcohol problem.

ALCOHOL | SEE PAGE 6

By Molly Ann Howell Managing Editor During his presentation to the “Community Conversation” group, Garry Kelley, a New Mexico Department of Health Alcohol Epidemiologist, shared some information about alcohol and how it affects McKinley County.

He explained that the new guidelines set by the Center for Disease Control recommend that men only consume two alcoholic beverages a day at maximum, and women should only consume one. Drinking is considered binge drinking when a man has five or more in one day and a woman has four or more.

After sharing that updated information, Kelley broke down statistics about McKinley County, comparing it to both the rest of New Mexico and the U.S. All these are statistics were gathered from New Mexico Department of Health surveys: • 15.1% of McKinley County residents aged 18-34 reported binge drinking within in the past month; 18.9% of residents aged 35-49, 10.8% of people aged 50-64; and 2% of people over the age of 65.

• In 2016, 21.2% of men in McKinley County admitted to binge drinking, while only 5.3% of women said they did. 20.7%

of men reported binge drinking in 2021, and 6.2% of women said they had. In comparison, only 20.4% of men nationwide binge drink, and 10.7% of women nationwide said they do.

• When it comes to underage drinking, 6.3% of McKinley County middle schoolers said they currently drink alcohol, while 7.6% of New Mexico middle schoolers said they do. For highschoolers, that number is 9.8% for McKinley County and 19.5% for the rest of the state.

• 2.3% of McKinley County middle schoolers admitted to binge drinking, while 3.5% of the rest of New Mexico middle schoolers said they participate in the activity. For high schoolers the numbers were 2.8% for McKinley County and 7.6% for the rest of the state.

• In 2014, 0.7% of McKinley County residents admitted to drinking and driving. That number dropped to 0.6% in 2020. In New Mexico, 1.3% of residents reported that they’d driven drunk in the past in 2020. For the U.S., that number was up to 2.2% in 2020.

• In 2013, 7.3% of public high school students in McKinley County said they’d driven drunk.

That number dropped to 2.9% in 2021. Both New Mexico and the rest of the U.S. were at 4.6% in 2021.

WHAT’S INSIDE …

10 11 13 15 17 NIZHONI BOULEVARD Construction to begin on longawaited project

DWI CHECKPOINT CRASH Two women, NMSP officer injured

4 Friday May 26, 2023 • Gallup Sun

WHO WAS BEAU WILSON? Farmington Police provide shooting update

MMIW Heavy metal concert supports cause

BATTERED FAMILIES SERVICES Executive Director responds to county’s claims NEWS

ALCOHOL | FROM PAGE 4 Gallup Sun Publishing, LLC Publisher Babette Herrmann Managing Editor Molly Ann Howell Executive Director Mandy Marks Design Volodymyr Lotysh Contributing Editor Cody Begaye Correspondents Dee Velasco Holly J. Wagner Photography Kimberley Helfenbein Merrisha Livingston Jenny Pond On the Cover: The Gallup Alcohol Policy Alliance hosted a “Community Conversation” to discuss the county’s alcohol problem with the public.

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.

One attendee said the city and county shouldn’t put blame on the restaurants and stores that sell alcohol, but rather on bootleggers who sell the product illegally.

“We can’t place 99.9% of the blame on our establishments when we have bootleggers on the streets who are

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6 Friday May 26, 2023 • Gallup Sun

selling [alcohol], and they’re not licensed,” she said.

As a local business owner, Sammy Chioda agreed that the problem doesn’t stem from the city’s restaurants.

He explained that he holds ongoing classes for his staff at Sammy C’s Pub & Grille on how to sell alcohol responsibly.

“We’re not on a mission to get you drunk,” Chioda said.

Chioda also said he doesn’t blame anyone specific for the problems in Gallup. He more so blames the system.

He shared a story about a friend of his who died in Albuquerque in a drunk driving accident. A man who had been told by a Chavez County judge that he wasn’t allowed to leave Roswell because of his multiple DWI charges. Shortly after receiving that sentence, the man made the three-hour drive to Albuquerque, crashing into

Chioda’s friend, killing him.

Chioda brought that story up to point out that many people who have been charged with multiple DWIs often get off on technicalities, such as the cop didn’t show up to court that day.

Wei argued that the alcohol problem is not something that can just be fi xed by the courts or the police.

“If [people] think it’s [a police problem], they’re going to think they don’t have to do anything about it,” Wei said.

LIQUOR TAX One of the suggestions Kelley presented was for the state to increase alcohol taxes.

During the recent legislative session, HB 230 passed the House and Senate. It set a fl at 25 cent tax per serving.

Gov. Michelle Lujan Grisham ultimately vetoed the increase.

Currently, the state beer excise tax is $0.41 per gallon, distilled spirits are about $6

per gallon, and wine excise taxes are $1.70.

We i a n d G a l lu p’s Behavioral Health Investment Zone Manager Debra Martinez said they plan to continue to fight for an increase in the next legislative session.

Martinez noted that even an .01 cent increase would bring in millions of dollars for the state.

O ne component m i s s i ng i n t he “Com mu n it y Conversation” was a presentation from representatives of the New Mexico Special I n v e s t i g a t io n s Un i t a nd A lcohol Beverage Control Division about enforcement efforts and liquor licensing.

Since no representative was able to attend the meeting, Wei and Martinez said that another meeting would be scheduled in the future for that presentation, although no date has been set.

NEWS

Turn yourself in MUNICIPAL COURT WILL DISMISS BENCH WARRANTS DURING SELF-SURRENDER WEEK

By Holly J. Wagner Sun Correspondent

I

t probably started with that sinking feeling that comes with the glow of red and blue lights flashing in the rearview mirror, maybe with the momentary whoop-whoop of a siren to get attention.

The next step might have been a traffic ticket or even a night in the drunk tank. Either way, it’s a pretty sure bet there will be fines. Even if traffic school can help avoid demerits on the driving record, that fine will probably still have to be paid.

That’s no fun for anyone, especially someone who’s already living paycheck to paycheck, or may not even get a regular paycheck.

At that point, the ticket may look like a looming disaster.

Simply not showing up for a court appearance is not an option, at least not one likely to improve the situation. Usually a judge will issue a citation for failure to appear – otherwise known as a bench warrant – which carries another $100 fine as well as putting the defendant’s name into the system where it could trigger an automatic arrest if the subject has another run-in with the law.

But there is a way out, and Gallup Municipal Court plans to highlight that with Self-Surrender week June 12-16. All that week, anyone with a pending bench warrant can show up to court between 7 am and 4 pm, no appointment necessary, and give their name. Judge Janell Griego will dismiss the bench warrant and get the subject’s case back on track.

“Doing this just opens that door and takes the fear out of

8 Friday May 26, 2023 • Gallup Sun

Gallup Municipal Court Judge Janell Griego introduced the Self-Surrender Week concept to Gallup in October 2021. File Photo coming to court for those who have a bench warrant,” Court Administrator Erin Gutierrez said. “Everybody is fearful of having to come to court, whether it’s a traffic case or a DWI.” Although the court and police department share the 451 Boardman Dr. address, no police officers will be standing by to throw a net over defendants, Gutierrez said. This is an effort to make it easier for defendants to clean up their records.

“That’s where people get confused. They think, ‘They’re right by the police department, a cop could be waiting for me,’” Guiterrez said. “We’re not trying to put people in jail for their bench warrants, we just want them to take care of them.”

For pre-adjudication defendants – those who never showed up for the underlying case to be heard – the bench warrant will be lifted and a new date will be scheduled.

For those whose cases have already been decided, the court can help set up a payment or compliance schedule to get the person

MUNICIPAL COURT | SEE PAGE 18 NEWS

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Citizens share comments, concerns on Nizhoni Boulevard construction

By Holly J. Wagner Sun Correspondent

G

allup citizens recently got a chance to speak up and share their opinions about the major construction project on Nizhoni Boulevard.

During the May 22 informational meeting about the construction that’s about to begin on East Nizhoni Boulevard, a few people objected to the design plan for the new road, which will see Nizhoni Boulevard between Second Street and College Drive reconfigured from a four-lane road with two lanes in each direction into a three-lane road with one travel lane in each direction

Boulevard; Phase 3 will replace the road between them.

By the time the project is finished, the existing sidewalks will be replaced with ADA-compliant six-foot-wide sidewalks, plus new drivepads, curbs, gutters and sections of block wall. The utilities underneath will get upgraded to eight-inch PVC water and sewer lines and 12-inch PVC effluent lines.

The work will necessitate closing the northbound lanes for the first half of the project, when utility work will be done deep underground before surface improvements, and the southbound lanes for the second half. That takes two of the cur-

Phase 3 of the Nizhoni Boulevard construction project will replace the road between the intersections of Second Street and Nizhoni Boulevard and College Drive and Nizhoni Boulevard. Photo Credit: Merrisha Livingston and a bidirectional center lane for left turns. Bike lanes will be added along the right side of the road in both directions.

The project is the third phase of a plan to upgrade Nizhoni Boulevard. Phase 1 included the intersection of Second Street and Nizhoni Boulevard; Phase 2 worked on the intersection of College Drive and Nizhoni

rent four lanes out of service and pushes traffic into the remaining two lanes. Crews are set to begin setting up traffic controls May 30.

The city council awarded the nearly $6 million Nizhoni construction contract to Murphy Builders at its March 14 meeting.

The job is expected to take 240 calendar days, so it should wrap

10 Friday May 26, 2023 • Gallup Sun

up next January, unless weather conditions prolong it.

DePauli Engineering representative Matt Long sought to ease meeting attendees’ concerns about the inevitable inconvenience of construction and reduced speeds during construction.

“If there is an issue, come talk with us, if there is a truck in the way or whatever,” Long said.

Long noted that the safety of the workers and the public is the construction company’s top concern.

Some participants were concerned about the safety of the new design, especially in regards to emergency vehicles around Rehoboth McKinley Christian Hospital and Gallup Indian Medical Center. The road is also a main route to the University of New Mexico-Gallup, the cancer center and many clinics and doctors’ offices.

Engineers assured those in attendance that safety is the primary goal of the project, and

plans are in place for emergency vehicles and other traffic issues during construction.

Several people expressed dismay that their comments at the May 22 meeting wouldn’t influence the project. For example, some questioned the wisdom of adding bike lanes, which are included in response to both community preference and a recent state rule to expand bicycle access statewide.

The project is in District 3, City Councilor Sarah Piano’s district. She attended the meeting to remain informed about the project. She noted that some of her constituents questioned the value of the meeting.

“People ask, ‘what is the point of going to this meeting if we don’t have any input?’” Piano said. “It’s important for the public to understand this is not a simple project.”

The time to make preferences known for this project passed years ago. It takes years to take a major road project from

an idea to reality. The planning stage typically takes more than a year, then local representatives have to get funding. Design and construction may take another year or two, depending on the project.

That means whatever the public says today won’t show up as part of a road project for five years or more. When construction is about to start, it’s too late for their comments to change anything.

In the last three months, the New Mexico Department of Transportation and the city have held public hearings for the planning stages of the state’s Route 66 Improved and I-40 Corridor Study, both addressing those roads from the Arizona state line to Albuquerque, and the city’s Transportation Master Plan, which covers all Gallup streets under city control. Those hearings drew just 35 to 50 citizen participants each. All three projects will have another hearing in the fall.

NEWS

NEWS

PUBLIC SAFETY

DWI checkpoint crash injures two women, NMSP officer Staff Reports

A

drunk driver drove through a DWI checkpoint in Thoreau and hit a New Mexico State Police Officer’s car, injuring an officer and two women.

Accord i ng to a New Mexico State Police press release, Joshua Floehr, 35, of Bloomfield, N.M., was driving westbound on Highway 122 in a 2019 Mitsubishi SUV around 6:45 pm on May 19.

He approached the DWI

checkpoint that NMSP had set up, and then reportedly drove right through it at a high rate of speed, hitting a NMSP officer’s car and pushing it into another officer’s unit before coming to a stop. Two women, ages 49 and 34, along with a NMSP officer, were standing by the car and were struck when Floehr crashed into them.

The officer reportedly tried to push one of the women out of the way to prevent her from being hit.

The victims were

transported to an area hospital. The females’ conditions are unknown. The officer was treated for his injuries and released later that night.

Alcohol and speed appear to be a contributing factor in this crash.

F loeh r wa s booked at the McKinley County Adult Detention Center for the following charges: • DUI resulting in great bodily harm by a vehicle • DWI (1st offense) • Aggravated battery on

a peace officer with a deadly weapon • Aggravated Assault on a peace officer with a deadly weapon • Roadways laned for traffic • Failure to obey traffic control device Floehr’s fi rst court appearance was on May 22.

This crash is being investigated by the New Mexico State Police with the assistance of the Cra sh Reconstr uction Unit.

Joshua Floehr

WNMU hosts ribbon cutting ceremony for new Learning Center

From left, Assistant Secretary for Native American Early Education and Care Cotillion Sneddy, WNMU College of Education Dean Dr. Debra Dirksen, WNMU President Dr. Joseph Shepard, Mayor Louie Bonaguidi and N.M. Rep. Patricia Lundstrom cut the ribbon for the new WNMU Learning Center May 20. Now that WNMU has returned to Gallup, the WNMU College of Education will kick off in-person classes in the fall with plans to expand program offerings in the near future. Photo Credit: Kim Helfenbein

PUBLIC SAFETY

Gallup Sun • Friday May 26, 2023 11

Weekly DWI Report Staff Reports Featured DWI

Starla Silversmith Feb. 20, 7:35 pm DWI (Third) A Mexican Springs woman,

Starla Silversmith, 40, was pulled over for speeding but was eventually arrested for her third DWI. McKinley County Sheriff’s Deputy Terence Willie was driving westbound on Highway 264 when he saw a blue Chevrolet Malibu driving eastbound at a reported speed of 64 mph in a 55-mph zone. The Caprice passed another vehicle before merging onto U.S. Highway 491, where Willie followed.

Willie conducted a traffic stop near the 7.7 mile marker and met the driver, Silversmith, and a passenger, both of whom reportedly showed signs of intoxication including bloodshot eyes as well as a smell of alcohol inside of the vehicle. Willie began questioning Silversmith, who allegedly said they were traveling back

to Mexica n Spr ings from Sagebrush Liquors and she had consumed two 16 oz. cans of Bud Light prior to driving, which she stated as 8 pm but then changed to 5 pm after Willie told her it was 7 pm at that moment.

Silversmith agreed to take the Standard Field Sobriety Tests. However, she performed poorly on the tests and was placed under arrest.

Silversmith was transported to the sheriff’s office for the breath test, where she posted two samples of .13. Afterward, she repor tedly stated her officer friend had told her to always do a blood draw and she requested an independent test.

Willie transported her to a local hospital for the requested blood d raw a nd she wa s cleared. He then transported

her to McKinley County Adult Detention Center and booked her for DWI (third), no registration or license, open container, speeding, and driving while license revoked.

Following a May 16 status hearing, Silversmith was charged and sentenced to pay a fi ne and fees.

Name: Chad Morgan Age: 26 Arrested: April 13 Charge: Aggravated DWI Status: Motion hearing on Aug. 3 Name: Emily Shundeen Sam Age: 33 Arrested: April 9 Charge: Aggravated DWI Status: Motion hearing on July 27 Name: Selina Lee Age: 49 Arrested: March 29

Charge: Aggravated DWI Status: Pretrial hearing on June 6 Name: Cory Miller Age: 31 Arrested: March 25 Charge: DWI Status: Motion hearing on June 6 Name: John Hoskie Jr. Age: 52 Arrested: March 24 Charge: Aggravated DWI (Second) Status: Pretrial hearing on June 6 Name: Roselyn Begay Age: 63 Arrested: Dec. 27 Charge: Aggravated DWI Status: Bench trial on July 19

Check out our FREE access community website! www.gallupsun.com 12 Friday May 26, 2023 • Gallup Sun

PUBLIC SAFETY

NEWS

STATE & REGION

Who was Beau Wilson?

FARMINGTON POLICE RELEASE MORE INFORMATION ABOUT SHOOTER Staff Reports

F

armington Police released more information about Beau Wilson, the 18-year-old who shot and killed three women, along with injuring a multitude of other people, in Farmington, N.M., May 15.

During a May 17 press conference, Farmington Police Chief Steve Hebbe said the shooter had access to more than 1,400 rounds of ammo.

The shooter used an AR-15 and two pistols and had access to 10 other weapons at his father’s house, where he was staying.

When Wilson began his rampage by shooting from within his home, he used an AR-15. These initial shots injured multiple people.

Wilson left his residence, reportedly leaving the AR-15 in the bushes. He then took the two pistols, a .9mm and a .22mm, with him as he began walking down the street and fi ring at homes and cars in the neighborhood.

Hebbe also said that Wilson was wearing a bullet-proof vest at the beginning of the incident. The vest was believed to have been homemade, with steel plates inside it. However, by the time police confronted him in front of the F irst Church of Christ Scientist, 713 N. Dustin Ave., he had removed the vest.

Officers found a note in Wilson’s pocket.

“The note refers to this being, sort of, his fi nal event, and that if anyone messes with his sister, there will be STATE & REGION

Beau Wilson was a Farmington High senior who was supposed to graduate the day after he shot and killed three women.

Photo Credit: Farmington High School problems,” Hebbe said.

Hebbe also said they were looking to have a conversation with Wilson’s family to see if there was an issue with his sister.

“So far, we have not been

able to fi nd anyone that could go into details on that, that knows anything about it,” Hebbe said. “It does not appear that there was any sort of significant event with his sister right before this event.”

W h i le t he Fa r m i ng ton Police have not directly mentioned a motive, Beau’s sister released a statement on social media in which she states that her brother was battling mental health problems: “We would like to start by sending our condolences to all of the victims and their loved ones. We know that the community and families involved are dealing with a lot of pain. My brother was fi ghting a battle of mental illness that he lost. He was set to graduate on Tuesday. This is all very shocking to us as we only knew him as a kindhearted young man that loved his family and friends dearly.

We understand that a lot of people are experiencing many emotions. We are also grieving the loss of our brother, son, grandson, uncle and friend.

We once again just want to send our condolences and deepest sympathy to everyone involved. We will continue to pray and search for answers.”

During a May 16 press conference, Farmington Deputy Police Chief Baric Crum said the crime scene was “nearly a quarter-mile” long, along North Dustin Avenue between Apache and Ute streets.

From the fi rst shot to the moment Wilson was killed, the incident lasted eight minutes, ending when he was shot by police outside the church.

Police identified the victims as: Shirley Voita, 79, Gwendolyn Schofield, 97, and Melody Ivie, 73. Schofield and Ivie, mother and daughter, were traveling in a car when

Shirley Viota is one of the three victims Beau Wilson shot and killed May 15. She was 79 years old when she died. Photo Credit: Courtesy of the Farmington Police

BEAU WILSON | SEE PAGE 19

Police found a note on Beau Wilson’s body after the shooting. In it, he mentions his sister and says that he doesn’t want anybody messing with her. Photo Credit: Courtesy of the Farmington Police Gallup Sun • Friday May 26, 2023 13

EDUCATION

NEWS

Social studies teacher gives up T.V. dreams to pursue a new passion: teaching

By Molly Ann Howell Managing Editor

E

ach month, Camille’s Sidewalk Café recognizes one local teach-

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er within the Gallup area for his or her determination to help students go above and beyond. Prospective teachers are nominated by students who feel they deserve to be recognized.

This month’s award went to Jeff Hunt, the social studies teacher at Middle College High School.

When he started college at Western State College in his home state of Colorado, Hunt knew he wanted to study history. In an interview with the Sun, he said he wanted to be “one of those hoity-toity muckety-muck experts” on the History Channel.

Jeff Hunt is the social studies teacher at Middle College High School. Before he went into teaching he thought he was going to use his history knowledge to get on to the ‘History Channel.’ Photo Credit: Bryanny Rich

But when he realized how competitive the field was and how much more schooling he would have to do, he turned to teaching.

His first three years of teaching were spent at JFK Middle School in the GallupMcK inley County Schools district, but now he has been teaching at the Middle College High School for five years.

Despite having dreams of being on T.V. or working at a museum, Hunt said he’s really “grown into” teaching.

“A lot of teachers I know are blessed with having it be a calling, and they’re just called to the classroom. It’s

TEACHER OF THE MONTH | SEE PAGE 19

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14 Friday May 26, 2023 • Gallup Sun

EDUCATION

COMMUNITY

Head banging for a cause at Navajo Technical University HEAVY METAL FESTIVAL RAISES FUNDS FOR MMIW

By Dee Velasco

M

usic can be fun, but it can also provide a purpose and help spread a message.

That’s exactly what it did during the “United Through Metal” mini-festival that was held May 19 at the Navajo Te ch n ic a l Un iver sit y i n Crownpoint. The festival aims to spread awareness for Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women by showcasing heavy metal bands.

The bands who participated in the festival were “Wicked Mea dow s,” “Wa r Mot or,” “Testify,” “Hell Throne” and “Mutilated Tyrant.”

It cost $10 to get into the show, and the proceeds were split between MMIW and Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women USA. The festival’s organizer Delvena Kirk and her husband Dave Kirk, who is in the band “Hell Throne,” wanted to do

something different to get the message about MMIW out to the public.

In an interview with the Sun, Delvena said she wanted to bring more attention to the Crownpoint community.

“The idea was discussed and with the help of a family member who works here at NTU everything just fell into place,” Delvena said. “NTU was so supportive of the idea that they let us use the Wellness Center, helped with the tickets, and even with the T-shirts.”

Delvena holds the mission of speaking about murdered Indigenous people close to her heart. Her uncle was murdered about 10 years ago, and her family still don’t know who killed him.

“I feel that this is a way to somehow connect with the loss of him,” Delvena said.

She said she hopes the festival also creates some sort of healing for those who have also lost loved ones through murder.

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COMMUNITY

Delvena praised the bands for coming out and showing their support for the MMIW cause. Some traveled from as far as Phoenix, Ariz., and “Testify” even donated their equipment.

“We were so thankful at the support of all the bands, I mean they paid their own way out here and it was so awesome for them to come out and play for such a great cause,” Delvena said.

MMIW sent a representative — Meskee Yatsayte — to speak on behalf of the organization.

HEAVY METAL FESTIVAL | SEE PAGE 20

From left, George Ivanusic (guitar), Rowe Maikoh (drums), Dave Kirk (guitarist/vocalist), and Dexter Dale (vocalist), make up the band “Hell Throne.” They performed at the “United Through Metal” mini-festival at Navajo Technical University on May 19 to support Dave’s wife Delvena Kirk, who organized the event that raised money for Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women. Photo Credit: Dee Velasco

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Gallup Sun Publishing, LLC 1983 State Road 602 Gallup, NM 87301 505-722-8994 gallupsun.com Gallup Sun • Friday May 26, 2023 15

June movies to start summer

By Glenn Kay For the Sun

I

t’s hard to believe, but it’s almost June. Most would agree that Guardians of the Galaxy Vol. 3 officially started the summer movie season, and since that time box-office juggernauts like Fast X and The Little Mermaid have arrived to really get things off and running. So, it’s time to delve even deeper and look at what other big features are headed to theaters in the upcoming month.

As expected, sequels are being thrown with abandon at moviegoers, but some may work and there are some intriguing originals arriving too.

Next week, The Boogeyman from 20 th Century Studios appears at cinemas. This is

an adaptation of the creepy Stephen King short story. It deals with a fa mily being tormented by a mythical figure that begins picking them off one by one.

The director’s previous work was the 2021 UK/U.S. creeper Dashcam, which split critics.

Let’s hope that this effort hits the mark.

Columbia is deliver ing the animated sequel SpiderMan: Across the SpiderVerse, which continues the stor y of a youthful

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Spider-Man who travels to alternate universes and meets different versions of the famous superhero. When a new threat emerges and threatens all parallel worlds, the protagonist must help all the Spider-Mans overcome their personal differences and work together. The 2018 original won an Academy Award for Best Animated Feature, so hopefully this tale will be able to live up to its predecessor.

June 16 sees a new title from Pixar, whose animated fi lms almost always earn raves a nd awa rd s.

Elemental is set in a city with a population made up of the four elements – Fire, Water, Ear th

and Air. One youth from the Fire area and another from the Water zone unexpectedly befriend each other and together attempt to expand their horizons.

Warner Bros. is delivering superhero action on June 16 with their new adaptation of The Flash, a popular DC character possessing super speed. A f ter trying to use his gift to turn back time and save his parents from meeting a tragic end, he accidentally causes issues, unleashing a powerful villain in the process. The lead also meets a few familiar faces as he tries to set things right.

No Hard Feelings from Sony Pictures arrives on June 23. It’s an R-rated comedy with Je n n i fe r

Lawrence playing a woman hired to act as a date for an extremely introverted teen and help bring him out of his shell before he heads off to college.

The month ends with a major title from Paramount Pictures. Indiana Jones and the Dial of Destiny is the fi fth f il m i n the Indiana Jones series, coming some 15 years after the prev io u s e n t r y and featuring a new direct o r (S t e v e n Spielberg did not return for this effort). When the aging hero is contacted by his goddaughter, he joins her on an adventure to fi nd a special dial that can change history. They must locate the artifact before it falls into the wrong hands.

The movie recently premiered at the Cannes Film Festival and reactions were mixed. Let’s hope it plays better in this part of the world.

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COMMUNITY

OPINIONS

The floral moral of the story ‘Grammar Guy’

By Curtis Honeycutt Guest Columnist

A

s spring turns to summer, I love taking leisurely laps around my house to see what’s in bloom. Nearly every day, I find a new flower opening its doors for business to bees and butterflies.

Whether it’s the brilliant orange monarch butterfly larval host plant butterfly weed or the hummingbird magnet, rich ruby red royal catchfly, I can’t help but find my mouth agape at nature’s

color wheel revealing itself day by day. I’m currently in awe of the pulchritudinous purple blooms of my current favorite native plant, wild lupine; they provide nectar and vital nutrients for bees, insects and hummingbirds alike.

Sorry to get so gushy about flowers, but native perennials are kind of my thing. I get excited to the point of using flowery language about flowers.

Flowery language is characterized by the abundant use of lengthy, occasionally outdated vocabulary and the inclusion of figurative expressions. In general,

the jury is in on flowery language; it says, “Don’t use it!” I’ll be the judge of that.

Let’s see some examples.

“As Judith languished in her cotton-mouthed state, she laboriously approached the silver oasis that promised aqueous vitality. As she painstakingly summoned the spirit to press her dainty thumb against the fountain’s operative button, water flowed like a rushing river into her eagerly awaiting mouth.”

Whew. Glad you made it, Judith. A straightforward way of writing the above paragraph

is: Judith was thirsty, so she got a drink of water from the water fountain. Depending on where you grew up, you could also say Judith got a drink from the drinking fountain or the bubbler.

How about this one: “Rik raced faster than a cheetah on the hunt toward the falling, hurtling white sphere. As the ball neared the blades of grass at a rapid clip, Rik sprawled out to secure it in the safety of his leather mitt.”

Simply stated, Rik made an exceptional diving baseball catch. Whether the play ended up on SportsCenter’s top plays or not, perhaps we’ll never know.

In my opinion, using a blend of direct and flowery words is the

secret sauce to make writing interesting and easy to u nderstand. Writers should aim Curtis Honeycutt t o i n fo r m their readers but also keep them entertained. If you go all-out with flowery language, it’s easy for the message to get lost in translation. But if it’s too plain and boring, reading can turn into a snooze-fest.

Curtis Honeycutt is an award-winning syndicated humor columnist and author.

Connect with him at curtishoneycutt.com.

Battered Families Services responds to county, news source Dear Editor, A news source recently repor ted v iews expressed by t he McK i n ley Cou nt y Commission and staff regarding Battered Families Services, Inc. It would be preferable, of course, for any misunderstandings or conflicting issues to be resolved in private before public statements are made,

but BFS has now been publicly criticized, and so I would like to set the record straight regarding the status and fi nancial health of BFS. First of all, BFS wa s accused of f isca l

BATTERED FAMILIES SERVICES | SEE PAGE 20

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Gallup Sun • Friday May 26, 2023 17

Proactive retirement planning for women

By Al Martinez Guest Columnist

R

etirement planning can be an overwhelming undertaking, especially for women. Women face unique retirement challenges, such as caretaking responsibilities and lower average savings rates than men. However, with proactive planning, women can make retirement a time of financial security and well-being. Let’s look at women’s obstacles in retirement planning and discuss strategies to help them prepare for retirement.

OBSTACLES WOMEN

MUNICIPAL COURT | FROM PAGE 8 back on the straight and narrow; in some cases it’s as simple as

MAY FACE IN RETIREMENT PLANNING Women may face several obstacles in their retirement planning journey. One of these is taking on caretaking responsibilities that can make it challenging to save for retirement or even continue to work in general.

In addition, many women also have lower average savings rates than men, which can put them at a disadvantage when preparing for the future.

Other potential obstacles for women include the gender wage gap and a lack of access to pension plans. The gender wage gap means that for every dollar

men earn, women earn only 82 cents on average. This can lead to lower overall retirement savings and less access to employer-sponsored or government pensions due to lower wages.

STRATEGIES TO HELP WOMEN PREPARE FOR RETIREMENT Fortunately, there are a few strategies that women can use to plan for their future proactively. The first is talking openly about money with partners or family members who support and understand your goals.

This will provide emotional support and tangible advice on managing finances and retiring

comfortably.

In addition, it is essential to be proactive with setting up your own retirement accounts (like IRAs), so you can benefit from any employer contributions or tax benefits associated with those accounts. Finally, adjusting your budget now to include room for savings will help ensure that you will have enough money saved when it comes time for you to retire.

If you have questions, contact a financial advisor familiar with women’s retirement planning needs to help you determine your best strategies.

Al Martinez is a member of Syndicated Columnists, a national organization committed to a fully transparent approach to money management.

Syndicated Columnists is the sole provider of this material, both written and conceptual, for this column. All rights reserved.

setting a schedule for visits with the court and, of course, paying the $100 bench warrant fee.

The court first tried the Self Surrender Week strategy

in October 2021, after Griego learned of another court’s experience at a conference.

Gutierrez thinks the COVID19 pandemic and not knowing

Griego’s reputation discouraged a lot of people from taking advantage of it.

“We didn’t get very many the first time,” Gutierrez said. “We hope this time we get a little more now that people know how she runs her court.”

Gutierrez said the court hopes to do the event annually.

Defendants can go see Griego

for the same treatment throughout the year, but only between 9 am and 2 pm on weekdays.

Self-Surrender Week is aimed at raising awareness and making it easier for defendants by extending the hours they can seek relief.

For further information, call Gutierrez at (505) 863-4469.

18 Friday May 26, 2023 • Gallup Sun

Al Martinez

OPINIONS

BEAU WILSON | FROM PAGE 13 they were shot.

Six people, including two police officers — Farmington Police Sgt. Rachel Discenza and New Mexico State Police

TEACHER OF THE MONTH | FROM PAGE 14 the location that has clearly been destined for them,” Hunt said. “That hasn’t necessarily been it for me, I’ve grown into it. It’s the only job I’ve ever had where I’ve never woken up and not wanted to go to my job.”

Hunt said he has a list of favorite things when it comes to his job, but on the top of that list is the moment when the kids begin to understand a concept, when he can see the “a-ha moment” come across their faces.

Officer Andreas Stamatiadis — were injured, and transpor t e d t o t he S a n Ju a n Regiona l Med ica l Center.

Stamatiadis, who was shot while driving to the scene, and the four civilians were treated and released from the

hospital. Discenza is reportedly recovering from a wound to her pelvis.

Seven more people were reportedly treated at the scene for injuries such as cuts from flying glass.

Hebbe expressed remorse

during the May 17 press conference. At the time of the shooting, he was in Wisconsin visiting his father. He said that as soon as he heard the news from one of his officers he and his wife began the trip back to New Mexico.

“It is a difficult thing to have such a strong connection with the community and with the department and know that we’re in the middle of something like this and know that I’m not there,” Hebbe said. “It was very difficult.”

“Those [moments] are just warm and tingly down in the tummy,” Hunt said.

As a middle school teacher, Hunt said he really enjoys interacting with his students, but he said one hard par t about the job is knowing that he doesn’t have a hand in what they might experience outside of the classroom.

‘I can control as best I can what their experience is like inside this space, but when they go home or in to the community, when they go deal with any difficulties or struggles they have that I don’t have any impact on, it’s tough

to watch them do that and not be able to help,” he said.

Middle College High School English teacher Jeffery Collier Kempton works side-by-side with Hunt, both literally and physically. The mens’ classrooms are right next to each other, and every spring semester they participate in something called “Englishistory,” which is a curriculum that combines the two subjects.

Hunt and Collier Kempton work together to infuse histor y content with English skills.

Collier Kempton called Hunt “a great teacher” who is

fun to work beside.

“M r. Hu nt c a re s ver y deeply about being prepared and presenting everything he can to the students,” Collier Kempton said. “When he puts together even a single lecture he’ll often read multiple books about that topic just so he can get at the lived experiences of that event or that time period so that he can give it life for the kids.”

Collier Kempton explained that Hunt doesn’t just relay information to his students.

“It’s not just that he’s giving them information. Instead, he’s inviting them to care,”

Collier Kempton said.

“W hen he received the Teacher of the Month award, Hunt said he was very surprised. He also gave a shoutout to ot her Ga l lup -a rea teachers. “ T here’s lot s of rea l ly excellent really deser v ing teachers in town,” Hunt said.

S o wh i le t he Hi st o r y Channel dream may be in his rearview mirror at this point, Hunt knows he’s exactly where he’s meant to be.

“Telling stories to eighth graders [is] a ton of fun, so to heck with hoity-toity History Channel stuff,” Hunt said.

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Gallup Sun • Friday May 26, 2023 19

BATTERED FAMILIES SERVICES | FROM PAGE 17 irresponsibility and inadequate sharing of information.

In the past three years, BFS has not only cleaned up all past inherited fi nancial issues but currently has a totally clean audit, as our external auditors will readily confi rm.

Additionally, we have recently been recognized nationally for our transparency as a nonprofit organization. We have

HEAVY METAL FESTIVAL | FROM PAGE 15 Donned in her Levi’s jacket with heavy metal band patches, Yatsayte addressed the crowd and handed out brochures about MMIW. She said she was excited that the event was a heavy metal music festival.

“Everyone has their own genre of music and I’m glad

prov ided the county with whatever information they requested. The public accusations are, therefore, mistaken.

Secondly, BFS was criticized for seeking outside funding without the County’s “permission,” and this seems to be the basis for the County’s unwillingness to actua lly implement and manage the BFS appropriations for which they are the designated fi scal agent. We would hope that any issues in this regard would be resolved professionally, with

good communication, and in the spirit of cooperation.

There are two key issues at hand: Number one, there are many families in McKinley County suffering from domestic violence. BFS is the primar y ser vice provider for parents and children who are at risk from abuse or neglect by other adults in their households. Alcohol abuse is a major contributor to these tragic circumstances, but there are other factors in play, as well.

We b e l ie v e i t i s

unconscionable for our local governments to deny resources in support of these families.

The need is so great that our only recourse has been to seek as much outside funding as possible to meet the urgent needs of these suffering county citizens.

Number two, our current facilities have serious deficiencies for which funding has been appropriated. However, the county has failed to cooperate with BFS in putting those resources to use. In the

meantime, we have proposed a plan for a new facility and comprehensive program based on international best practices, and we are pursuing funding to make that a reality.

It would be in the best interests of BFS, the County and the County community for there to be the highest degree of cooperation and support possible from all of our public agencies.

Sincerely, Emily Ellison Executive Director of Battered Family Services

it was the metal scene to help with the event,” Yatsayte said.

“With this type of music, it draws everyone together and it just went hand-in-hand to talk about this emotional subject.”

While getting ready to hit the stage, Dave expressed his thoughts on the mini-festival his wife put together.

“If we could help one family or two families or more, it’s all worth the cause to come out

and play,” Dave said, “Metal music is so powerful and it has a message behind it.”

Dave explained that heavy metal is so profound on the reservation and mainly so underground, but by performing for such a great cause it would hopefully change the minds of those who think otherwise.

“When people see heavy metal followers, they often think of nothing but a bunch of

delinquents, when in reality we [heavy metal followers] are just simply chill people listening to heavy metal music,” Dave said.

Before the event started, he said he hoped it draws in the heavy metal fans who “just want to head bang together for a worthwhile cause.”

The event drew in heavy metal fans of all ages. In total, the event raised close to $500.

Delvena and everyone who

was involved were surprised at such a great turnout and hope to do this again in the near future.

“Music is healing and this is a great way for all of us to come together with no alcohol or drugs and to concentrate on our family and the good times,” Yatsayte said.

For more information about the MMIW Task Force, visit www.mmiwusa.org.

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20 Friday May 26, 2023 • Gallup Sun

Competitive Pay Good Work Environment Flexible Schedules Employment Advancement We are looking for Honest, Dependable, and Trustworthy persons.

Please apply at 1717 S. Second Street

*** For Sale 1992 Dodge Extended Van 1977 Camper Dodge Van 1967 MC5A Bus, was a mobile home & GreyHound (505) 713-9242, if no answer leave a message FOR RENT Gallup Living Rentals Available Email berlinda@gallupliving. com for current rental list.

Office (505) 488-2344

CLASSIFIEDS | SEE PAGE 21 CLASSIFIEDS

CLASSIFIEDS | FROM PAGE 20 HELP WANTED McKinley County is now accepting applications for the following positions: POSITION Administrative Assistant DEPARTMENT Adult Detention Center FOR BEST CONSIDERATION DATE June 2, 2023 Applications and additional information regarding positions can be found on the County web site www. co.mckinley.nm.us Dezirie Gomez, CPO Human Resource Director *** Wanted: Auto Body Technician Must have own tools and experience Apply in person at D&C BODY SHOP in Gallup

*** NMCADV is hiring a CCR Community Organizer for McKinley County, Starting at 65k a year. The organizer is responsible for bringing together professionals from several agencies that respond to domestic violence in an effort to enhance safety for victims and hold offenders accountable.

For more information, and to apply, visit www.nmcadv.org *** Office The Gallup Sun is seeking a motivated and proactive Executive Assistant to join our busy little team.

Job Description: • Provide administrative assistance, such as writing and editing emails, drafting memos, and preparing communications as directed • Maintain comprehensive and accurate records • A ssist with ba sic

accounting duties • Orga nize meetings, including scheduling, sending reminders, and preparing items needed for meetings.

• Answering phone calls in a polite and professional matter • Welcome v isitors and identify the purpose of their visit before directing them to the appropriate person • Ma nag i ng executives calendars, including making appointments and prioritizing important matters • Assist with all office work pre- and post-production • Running errands • Attend out of town conferences 1 to 2 times per year Qualifications: • T y pe 35+ word s per minute • 1 year of consecutive admin office experience • High School Diploma or GED required

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Deadline subject to change Thanksgiving, Christmas, and New Year’s.

Email: gallupsunlegals@gmail.com Offi ce (505) 722-8994

• Track record of reliability • Decent grammar skills • Ability to draft documents by dictation • Engaged when learning new skills • Must be available during the week, dayshift.

• 30-40 hrs per week • Ca reer t rack m i nded individuals need only apply • 90 days probationary period

CLASSIFIEDS | SEE PAGE 22

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CLASSIFIEDS | FROM PAGE 21 Pay: $13.75-$16.00 hr. DOE, plus fuel allowance Perks: 2 weeks vacation after one year of employment.

NM sick pay accrual, plus more! Bonuses for participation in marketing campaigns.

Send your cover letter, resume, and three professional references to Executive Director Mandy Marks: gallupsuncirculation@gmail. com *** Reporter Wanted The Gallup Sun seeks a stringer or two to cover general assignment in Gallup and surrounding areas.

Please email resume to: gallupsun@gmail.com LEGAL/PUBLIC NOTICES ELEVENTH JUDICIAL DISTRICT COURT COUNTY OF McKINLEY STATE OF NEW MEXICO KHALAF INVESTMENTS, INC., Plaintiff, Vs. WIND SONG BEHAVIOR HEALTH SERVICES, LLC and SHERRY JEFCOAT, Manager.

Defendants.

No. D-1113-CV-2023-00144 NOTICE OF PENDENCY OF SUIT To: WIND SONG BEHAVIOR HEALTH SERVICES, LLC and SHERRY JEFCOAT, Manager.

You or your attorney are

hereby directed to file a pleading or motion in response to the Petition for Restitution to Owner of Real Property on file herein on or before 20 days from the date of the last publication of this Notice in the Office of the Clerk of the District Court, Eleventh Judicial District of the State of New Mexico, sitting within and for the County of McKinley, that being the Court in which said Complaint is filed, and to serve a copy of the same pleading or motion upon Plaintiffs or Plaintiffs’ attorneys, Mason & Isaacson, P.A., 104 East Aztec, P.O. Box 1772, Gallup, New Mexico 87305, (505722-4463). Unless a responsive pleading or motion is entered by you in this cause on or before the above date, judgment will be rendered against you by default.

The general object of said action is the Restitution of the following-described property in McKinley County, New Mexico: 1210 E. Highway 66 Gallup, New Mexico 87301 WITNESS the District Judge of the Eleventh Judicial Court of the State of New Mexico, and the seal of said Court this ____ day of May, 2023.

Clerk of the District Court By Published: Gallup Sun May 26, 2023 June 2, 2023 June 9, 2023 *** IN THE FAMILY COURT OF THE NAVAJO NATION JUDICIAL DISTRICT OF CROWNPOINT, NEW MEXICO In the Matter of: B.D.B., Z.B., T.B., M.B., J.B.; Minors Ricky and Jennifer Sena,

22 Friday May 26, 2023 • Gallup Sun

Petitioners v. Delphine Whitegoat, Respondent Byron Begay, Sr., Respondent/Deceased No. CPFC-DM-000060-2023 TO: DELPHINE WHITEGOAT A Petition for Termination of Parental Rights and Adoption of Minor Children has been filed against you in the Family Court of the Navajo Nation

by Ricky and Jennifer Sean c/o The Law Offices of David R. Jordan (505) 863-2205.

This publication in the Gallup Sun serves you as legal notice to you. You are given 30 days after the first publication. You can prepare a written answer on your own behalf and file it with the court. Or you can hire legal counsel to help you prepare a written answer and file it with the court. If you want to object to the claim and/or have the court hear your side of the case, you have to file a written answer within the 30-day period. You may represent yourself in this action, or you may hire legal counsel. If you do nothing and choose not to file an answer, the court may give judgment against you for what the petition demands. If you do nothing and choose not to file an answer, the court may give judgment against you for what the petition demands.

May Dated: April 24, 2023 The Law Offices of David R. Jordan, PC 1995 State Road 602 PO Box 840 Gallup, NM 87305-0840 Published: Gallup Sun May 5, 2023, May 12, 2023, 19, 2023, May 26, 2023 *** LEGAL NOTICE REQUEST FOR PROPOSALS

Public Notice is hereby provided that the Gallup-McKinley County Schools is accepting competitive sealed proposals for: LITERACY AND MATH INTERVENTION PROGRAM Grades K-5, District-wide Multi-Year Agreement RFP-2023-51RB Commodity Code(s): 20843, 20944, & 92003 As more particularly set out in the RFP documents, copies of which may be obtained by downloading from the Gallup-McKinley County Schools eBidding platform website https://gmcs.bonfirehub.com/portal/?tab=openOpportunities Sealed proposals for such will be received until 2:00 P.M. (LOCAL TIME) on, June 20, 2023. FAX and HARDCOPY PROPOSALS will NOT be accepted. Offerors will not be able to upload proposals or documents after the specified CLOSING date and time.

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

Dated the 26th day of May 2023 By: /S/ Chris Mortensen, President Board of Education Gallup-McKinley County School District No. 1 RFP ISSUE DATE: May 26, 2023 PUBLICATION DATES: May 26, 2023 (Gallup Sun) May 28, 2023 (Albuquerque

Journal) *** ELEVENTH JUDICIAL DISTRICT COURT COUNTY OF MCKINLEY STATE OF NEW MEXICO In the matter of the petition of EURICA NICOLE WILSON No. D-1113-CV-2023-00202 For change of name of MAXIMUS TRISTAN WILSON SECOND AMENDED NOTICE OF PETITION TO CHANGE NAME (OF PERSON UNDER 14 YEARS OF AGE) TO: EURICA NICOLE WILSON, Mother, and BARACK BAUTISTA CASTILLO, Father: NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that Petitioner, EURICA NICOLE WILSON, by and through her attorney, GRANT L. FOUTZ, Rosebrough, Fowles & Foutz, P.C, is a resident of Gallup, McKinley County, State of New Mexico has filed a Petition to Change Name of her child in the Eleventh Judicial District Court, McKinley County, New Mexico, wherein she seeks to change the name of her child from MAXIMUS TRISTAN WILSON to MAXIMUS TRISTAN McCORD. This Petition will be heard before the Honorable Louis E. DePauli, Jr., District Judge, on the 6th day of June, 2023, at the hour of 11:15 a.m. at the McKinley County Courthouse, 207 W. Hill Ave., Gallup, New Mexico.

JODIE SCHWEBEL Clerk of the District Court By /s/ Valarie Baretinicich Deputy Clerk Published: Gallup Sun May 26, 2023 June 2, 2023 CLASSIFIEDS

CALENDAR

Community Calendar May 26 - June 1, 2023 FRIDAY, MAY 26

GALLUP CENTRAL, RAMAH AND GALLUP HIGH SCHOOL GRADUATION DAY

6:30 pm @ various sites.

NAVAJO RUG WEAVING

10 am @ OFPL’s Main Library (115 W. Hill Ave.).

Learn the fundamentals and techniques of rug weaving in traditional Diné style, including warping, carding and spinning. Please bring your own weaving materials and/or projects. Email bmartin@gallupnm.gov or call (505) 863-1291 for more information.

KIDS CRAFTER-NOON

1 pm - 3 pm @ Studio123 at ART123 Gallery (123. W. Coal Ave.). Kids ages 8+ are invited to spend the afternoon coloring, cutting, collaging, constructing and crafting!

CHESS CLUB

4:30 pm @ OFPL’s Children’s Branch (200 W. Aztec Ave.). Join the chess club at OFPL! Email pneilson@ gallupnm.gov or call (505) 863-1291 for more information.

GET UP AND GAME

1 pm - 5 pm @ OFPL’s Children’s Branch (200 W. Aztec Ave.). Every Friday, come to the children’s library to unwind from a busy week!

Email pneilson@gallupnm. gov or call (505) 863-1291 for more information.

SATURDAY, MAY 27

WEEKEND WORKSHOP: CYANOTYPE PRINTING WITH CHERILLE W.

1 pm - 5 pm @ ART123 Gallery ( (123 W. Coal Ave.).

Register at www.galluparts. org/workshops

KIDZ CINEMA

2 pm every Saturday @ OFPL’s Children’s Branch (200 W. Aztec. Ave.) for weekly family oriented film screenCALENDAR

ings. This week’s movie is Moana (2016). Email bmartin@gallupnm.gov or call (505) 863-1291 for more information.

GALLUP 9TH ST. FLEA MARKET

9 am - 5 pm @ 340 9th Street. The Gallup 9th Street Flea Market is one of the largest Native American markets in the United States.

MONDAY, MAY 29 HAPPY MEMORIAL DAY!

JOIN VETERANS HELPING VETERANS ON MEMORIAL DAY

10 am - 11:30 am. Wreaths will be placed on the grave of the unknown soldier, and then a parade that starts at Gurley Body Shop (901 W. Aztec Ave.) will take place.

EUREKA!

4 pm @ OFPL’s Facebook page. Email pneilson@gallupnm.gov or call (505) 8631291 for more information.

TUESDAY, MAY 30

BEHAVIORAL HEALTH TRAINING: PROFESSIONALISM AND BOUNDARIES

1 pm - 4 pm on Zoom. For more information visit gallupnm.gov.

CHESS CLUB

4:30 pm @ OFPL’s Children’s Branch (200 W. Aztec Ave.). Join the chess club at OFPL! Email pneilson@ gallupnm.gov or call (505) 863-1291 for more information.

WEDNESDAY, MAY 31

REVOLUTION CHESS CLUB

6 pm - 7:30 pm @ Rio West Mall’s food court (1300 W. Maloney Ave.) A free chess club that is open to players of all ages and skill levels.

For more information email revolutionchessclub@gmail. com.

MIDWEEK MATINEE AT OFPL

4 pm every Wednesday @ OFPL’s main library (115 W. Hill Ave.). This week’s film is Hacksaw Ridge in honor

of Memorial Day.

FAMILY STORYTIME

11 am @ the Children’s Branch (200 W. Aztec Ave.).

This month, they will be exploring the topic of food.

Email bmartin@gallupnm. gov or call (505) 863-1291 for more information.

TINKER TECH OPEN MAKERSPACE TIME

4 pm - 6 pm @ OFPL’s Children’s Branch (200 W. Aztec Ave.). OFPL’s MakerSpace is a collaborative work space for making, learning, and exploring. Participants ages 5 and up can come in to create their own design for the 3D printers or explore the many engineering activities and equipment!

SAVE THE DATE FRIDAY, JUNE 2

LAST DAY OF SCHOOL FOR GMCS STUDENTS ‘ALL TOGETHER NOW’ SUMMER READING KICK-OFF PARTY

1 pm - 5 pm @ OFPL’s Children’s Branch (200 W. Aztec Ave.). All ages are invited to play games, create chalk art, make crafts and enjoy snacks! Learn about summer reading and awesome upcoming events at the library.

FIRST NEW DEAL PUBLIC ART TOUR

4 pm @ County Courthouse steps.

SATURDAY, JUNE 3

CRICUT 101

1 pm @ OFPL’s Main Library (115 W. Hill Ave.). Learn the basics of using your Cricut to cut and shape paper.

Email bmartin@gallupnm. gov or call (505) 863-1291 for more information.

CHESS TOURNAMENT

10 am - 5 pm @ @UNM Gallup SSTC 200. K-12 students and adults are invited to join OFPL and UNM-Gallup in a five-round chess tournament. Email

pneilson@gallupnm.gov or call (505) 863-1291 for more information.

TUESDAY, JUNE 6

REGULAR COMMISSION MEETING

9 am @ 207 W. Hill Ave. FRIDAY, JUNE 9

BOOK COVER BINGO

5 pm @ OFPL’s Main Library (115 W. Hill Ave.). Discover new authors and genres, explore new ideas, and have fun!

SATURDAY, JUNE 10

73RD ANNUAL LIONS CLUB BATTLE OF THE BANDS AND BBQ

8 am - 5 pm @ Courthouse Square.

ONGOING

GALLUP AQUATIC CENTER SWIM LESSONS

Register at the Aquatic Center (620 Boardman Ave.) For questions, please contact Gallup Aquatic Center at (505) 726-5460.

‘ALL TOGETHER NOW!’ SUMMER READING REGISTRATION

throughout the month of May, with new materials added daily! Fill up a bag with books for $5 or buy one for $1. Email bmartin@ gallupnm.gov or call (505) 863-1291 for more information.

RECRUITING TEEN MAKERS

OFPL is recruiting Teens to help spread their passion.

Get trained and certified on our MakerSpace equipment and become a Teen Ambassador for the MakerSpace!

Email pneilson@gallupnm. gov or call (505) 863-1291 for more information.

BUILD-YOUR-OWN-BUNDLE

OFPL staff who will create a bundle of material specially for you! Let them know what type of materials and genres you are interested in, and they’ll browse for you and create a custom bundle of material for you to pick-up curbside. Email bmartin@gallupnm.gov or call (505) 863-1291 for more information.

INTER-TRIBAL INDIAN CEREMONIAL: A PHOTO RETROSPECTIVE

All ages are invited to register for OFPL’s 2023 Summer Reading Program as they celebrate kindness, friendship, and unity “All Together Now.” You may register in-person at the Children & Youth Library, Main Library or at ofpl.online. Email pneilson@gallupnm.gov or call (505) 863-1291 for more information.

The City of Gallup invites you to celebrate the centennial of Inter-Tribal Indian Ceremonial through images and objects, an exhibition curated by OFPL. Email tmoe@gallupnm.gov for more information.

WE READ, WE TALK HYBRID BOOK CLUB

GOOGLE CAREER CERTIFICATE SCHOLARSHIP

OFPL’s book club book for July is “Santiago’s Road Home” by Alexandra Diza.

Register online at ofpl. online for a copy before supplies run out. Discussion will be held in July via Zoom or in person at the Rex Museum (301 W. Historic Hwy. 66).

FRIENDS OF OFPL BOOK SALE

Friends of OFPL will have a book sale at the library

GALLUPARTS EXTENDS HOURS

12 pm-6 pm Tuesdays through Saturdays (123 W. Coal Ave.)

Jump-start your career with a Google Career Certificate scholarship. For more info email bmartin@gallupnm. gov or call (505) 863-1291.t 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 May 26, 2023 23

STUCK IN A 3-YEAR PHONE CONTRACT? BREAK FREE FROM VERIZON INTRODUCING

Now, we’ll pay off your phone up to $800 and get you on our best plan yet—Go5G Plus. The first plan where new and existing customers always get the same great device deals and are upgrade-ready in two years.

Up to $800 via virtual prepaid card for eligible phone payoff when you switch; card typically takes 15 days.

T-Mobile.com Limited-time offer; subject to change. See T-Mobile.com/plans for Go5G Plus benefits, including the ability to be ready to upgrade in two years. Up to $800 To Pay Off Eligible Phone: Qualifying device, credit, service, and port-in required. You must unlock device before port-out; ask us how. Device balance (incl. lease purchase option) up to $800 paid by virtual prepaid Mastercard® (no cash access & expires in 6 months) which you can use online or in-store via accepted mobile payment apps, typically within 15 days. Tax excluded. Submit proof of balance & 90+ days in good standing with carrier & device within 30 days of port-in and be active and in good standing when processed. Devices previously used for Keep & Switch are not eligible. We might ask for more information. Up to 5 lines. One offer per subscriber. T-Mobile Prepaid Mastercard is rebate/reimbursement or exchange on port-in; for any tax implications, consult a tax advisor. No money has been paid by you for the card. Card is issued by Sunrise Banks N.A., Member FDIC, pursuant to a license from Mastercard International Incorporated. Mastercard is a registered trademark of Mastercard International Incorporated. Use of this card constitutes acceptance of the terms and conditions stated in the Cardholder Agreement. See Terms and Conditions (including arbitration provision) at www.T-Mobile.com for additional information. T-Mobile, the T logo, Magenta and the magenta color are registered trademarks of Deutsche Telekom AG. © 2023 T-Mobile USA, Inc.