Gallup Journey Magazine - January 2023

gallup

Jo u r n e y The Free Community Magazine

2023 January #222

Stop in and reserve your vehicle today!

220 S. Fifth St., Gallup, NM 87301 | 505-722-2271 | www.ricoautocomplex.com

January City Update - Parks & Recreation BRING IN THE NEW YEAR WITH

s s e n t i F

The mission of the City of Gallup Parks and Recreation Department is to enhance and promote the quality of life for residents and surrounding communities by providing fun, safe, and organized programs for youth, adults, and seniors to challenge them both physically and mentally. The city strives to provide the necessary tools and resources to improve and maintain a healthier lifestyle. You may contact us by calling (505) 726-5492.

Ford Canyon Park, 908 E. Buena Vista

The Gallup Aquatic Center, 620 Boardman Drive, offers an unparalleled water recreation experience for everyone.

Whether you’re 8 or 80, we have fun for all. The Aquatic Center offers water safety classes, lifeguarding classes, summer swimming lessons, water aerobics, recreation swimming, and laps for fitness. Open 6 a.m. to 6 p.m., Tuesday through Friday; 10 a.m. to 2 p.m., Saturday and Sunday; and closed Monday.

Gallup Aquatic Center , 620 Boardman Drive

The Larry Brian Mitchell Recreation Center, 400 Marguerite Franco Street, offers programs for all ages. The facility has a large gymnasium for basketball and other court activities, a weight room with free weights and machines, and a cardio exercise suite. Also, there is an art room to create various crafts with instruction. Look out for the Gallup Youth Basketball league, Arts & Craft Fair, summer youth sports camps, Zumba, and aerobics. Open 8 a.m. to 8 p.m., Monday through Friday, and closed weekends.

The Cecil Garcia Fitness Center, 700 Old Zuni Road, offers facilities for teens (16+), adults, and seniors.

There are three racquetball courts, a spacious weight room offering both free weights and machines, a cardio room — equipped with elliptical trainers, bikes, stair steppers, and rowers — and a co-ed steam room and sauna. Open 6 a.m. to 8 p.m., Monday through Friday; and 7 a.m. to 3 p.m. on Saturday and Sunday.

Cecil Garcia Fitness Center, 700 Old Zuni Road

Mayor Louie Bonaguidi Councilor Linda Garcia Councilor Michael Schaaf Councilor Sarah Piano Councilor Fran Palochak

Join the Lobo Pack The University of New Mexico-Gallup is now hiring temporary part-time faculty to teach in-person classes on our branch campus for the Spring 2023 semester.

Why work for UNM-Gallup?

Give back to your community Inspire the next generation We are seeking qualified instructors to teach the following subjects: • • • • • • • • • • • • • •

Automotive Technology Construction Technology Welding Technology Criminal Justice Business Technology Mathematics/Statistics General Biology Chemistry English Anthropology Sociology Psychology Political Science Geography

• • • • • • • • • • • • • •

Geology Physics Natural Sciences Environmental Sciences Emergency Medical Services Medical Laboratory Technology Nursing Didactic Arabic French German Mandarin Chinese Navajo Spanish Zuni

Enrich your life Make a meaningful change APPLY NOW: For complete information including closing dates, minimum qualifications and instructions on how to apply for this or any UNM position, please visit our website at unmjobs.unm.edu or call 505-863-7605 or 505-863-7557.

UNM-Gallup Human Resources, 705 Gurley Ave., Gallup, NM 87301 Adjunct faculty may be eligible to receive certain UNM benefits in some cases. See the Benefits home page for more information.

The University of New Mexico is an affirmative action, equal opportunity employer, making decisions without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, age, veteran status, disability, or any other protected class. We are committed to hiring and retaining a diverse workforce and are dedicated to the goal of building an inclusive and pluralistic faculty and staff. We are committed to teaching and working in a multicultural environment.

Gallup Business Improvement District Thanks All Who Participated in BID Programs & Activities During 2022

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fb.gallupbid@mailfence.com 230 South Second St. Gallup, New Mexico

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Arts Crawl

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Thoughts From The West End Disney is a global media empire that infiltrates every household with a television.

The large conglomerate is made up of Disney, Lucasfilm, Marvel, and Pixar who all make high-earning movies. They also operate ABC, ESPN, and Freeform television networks. That means they deliver a large quantity of our movie and television entertainment. It also gives them this large platform to deliver ideas and a certain perspective on popular culture. Lots of people (customers) love the Disney product and shelled out more than 82 billion dollars in 2022 for its offerings, but that doesn’t mean you don’t have a steady stream of those chanting for boycotts of everything Disney.

Having three children I pretty much have seen the library of Disney movies.

My girls love the princess movies, and our son was convinced that Iron Man was a real dude pretty much through elementary school.

So, when families across the world streamed Disney’s new movie Strange World and a

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January 2023

few minutes in we understand that we have a gay main character another uproar began. Disney doesn’t back down from creating difficult discussions.

Once I start a movie, I have a very difficult time not finishing it, no matter how bad it can get. Dia de Muertos (Day of the Dead) is not part of my family’s traditions but living in New Mexico you get an introduction to the fall season holiday. Disney made a movie Coco where the traditional holiday was the main theme. It is this beautiful tale about family and the idea of carrying on the family stories. Once you are forgotten you travel to this final death. The movie Coco suggests learning their stories and the stories of the people around you for a more fulfilled experience in this life and the next. Not sure how I feel about all of Disney’s movies but we can either choose to boycott Disney and go back to watching CSI New York and catch those noncontroversial drug dealers and serial killers.

Jpa-

The Ancient Way Café

El Morro RV Park and Cabins

Our days and hours of operation in January are Thursdays through Sundays, 9 am to 3 pm

Come try our Smokehouse BBQ Omelet with our mouthwatering House-smoked Brisket, Huevos Rancheros, Ancient Way Burgers, Black Bean Burgers, Burritos, French Toast, and other breakfast and lunch delights.

Plus we have a wide range of homemade desserts to entice you!

January Sunday Specials - Noon to 3 pm Sunday, Jan. 8 Bouillabaisse (Shrimp, Mussels, Cod) with French Bread Sunday, Jan. 15 Pulled Pork over Sweet Potato Pie with Mixed Veggies Sunday, Jan. 22 Chicken Parmesan with Danish Whipped Potatoes and Mixed Veggies Sunday, Jan. 29 Shepherd’s Pie (Ground Beef ) with Green Salad

May your New Year be filled with peace, joy, and love.

Thank you for your ongoing love and support!

The management and staff of the AWC El Morro RV Park, Cabins & Ancient Way Café elmorro-nm.com • elmorrorv@gmail.com • 505-783-4612

Near mile marker 46 on Hwy 53, one mile east of El Morro National Monument Entrance

sudoku

When you finish these puzzles, bring them to our office at 210 E. Aztec Ave, оr take a pic with your phone and email it to gallupjourney@gmail.com. Don’t forget to include your name.

December Master Finishers Rebecca Bak Sarah Landavazo Thomas Gomez Jordyn Manning Pepita Kung Fu Kenny Kyle & Janna R Morris DK & Footies Stephen Mahnke, Sr

N.T.N. Richard L enrique pieras Michelle Wilson AJMITCH Duane Yazzie Maureen Bia E Skeet Mark Gartner

Contents Thank you, to the contributors of the 19th Annual Arts Issue!

26 36 38 42 44 46 53 56

Zuni and Its Beauty Kenneth Maxymowich Event Calendar Walking in Beauty UNM names Dr. Sabrina Ezzell as UNM-Gallup Chancellor People Reading So Long My Friend Kenneth Riege Educational Childcare Update Dr.Vicki Handfield It Takes a Village to Revive Dine’ bizaad Richard Reyes, senior public relations specialist

Thanks to our Contributors this month: Richard Reyes Kenneth Maxymowich Kenneth Riege Dr.Vicki Handfield

Thank you for all of your art issue submissions!!

Publishers: Daisy & Jason Arsenault Chuck & Jenny Van Drunen

Managing Editor: Aileen Steigerwald

Staff: Christine Carter

Do you have a cool local story you want to share with the Journey? Send your story to gallupjourney@gmail.com

Gallup Journey Magazine 505-722-3399 • 210 E. Aztec Ave. • PO Box 2187 gallupjourney.com • gallupjourney@gmail.com Cover: Leon Chee

Don’t want to miss an issue, subscribe to the Gallup Journey - one year $45.

January 2023 Issue #222 All Rights Reserved. No articles, photos, illustrations, advertisements, or design elements may be used without expressed written permission from the publisher, Gallup Journey Inc. This publication is distributed with the understanding that the information presented is from many sources, for which there can be no warranty or responsibility by the publisher as to accuracy, originality, or completeness. It is distributed with the understanding that the publisher is not engaged in making product endorsements, recommending health care or treatments, providing instruction, or recommending that any reader participate in any activity or behavior described in the publication. The opinions of the contributors to this publication belong to them and do not reflect the opinions of the editors or publishers.

Easy

Hard

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A Project of the Southwest Indian Foundation

Art Show and Competition Saturday, April 15, 2023 @ Red Rock Park Open to McKinley County Students AND Schools! Grades 3- 12 Follow the GALLUP JOURNEY for monthly updates! For Information: 505-728-8048

201 E. Historic Route 66 Gallup New Mexico 505-728-8048

CYNTHIA CHAVEZ

ORLINE BEGAYE

NELSON BEGAYE

FREDERICK JAMES PLATERO

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January 2023

STEVEN C. BOLIEU

Back-to-School

Student/Beginner Welding Equipment Kit

A carry-bag packed with the things you need to start!

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FOUR LOCATIONS! Gallup, NM • 606 E Hwy 66 • 505.722.3845 Milan, NM • 305 Airport Road • 505.287.9454 Cortez, CO • 101 N Broadway • 970.565.6547 Durango, CO • 187 Bodo Drive • 970.247.1854

Happy New Year from Gallup Community Health!

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Services we provide: Primary care for all ages Prenatal care Reproductive health care, including vasectomy Urology services Sports physicals Medication assisted therapy for opioid use disorder (buprenorphine/suboxone) LGBTQ healthcare Walk-ins welcome

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gallupcommunityhealth.org Gallup Community Health’s mission is to provide excellent and accessible medical care to our community, regardless of ability to pay. Our vision is for a community where each member achieves their optimal potential wellness.

PUT YOUR OFFICE IN ORDER FOR THE NEW YEAR WITH STORAGE BOXES. FEL 00703 LETTER/LEGAL WAS $111.60ct SALE $76.89ct

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January 2023

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ALEXANDRIA PATTERSON

ANANDAN SWAMINATHAN MD RUIDOSO CYCLE

CAROL SARATH GOLDEN HOUR

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DANIEL ENSIGN

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Clinical psychologist

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Practicing for over 30 years. Treating anxiety, depression, and life issues.

In Gallup 609-841-9159 drvickihandfield.com January 2023

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The Gallup-McKinley County School (GMCS) District is preparing our students for adult life through College, Career, and Civic Readiness programs and activities which start at 5th grade with exploration and continues through high school graduation with very specific pathway training. What does "College, Career, and Civic Ready" mean? College, career, and civic readiness programs are designed to ensure high school graduates have the content knowledge, skills, habits, and dispositions in multiple subjects to be successful in their future endeavors, after high school.

The Gallup-McKinley County School (GMCS) District is preparing our students for adult life through College, Career, and Civic Readiness programs and activities which start at 5th grade with exploration and continues through high school graduation with very specific pathway training. What does "College, Career, and Civic Ready" mean? College, career, and civic readiness programs are designed to ensure high school graduates have the content knowledge, skills, habits, and dispositions in multiple subjects to be successful in their future endeavors, after high school.

To be successful after high school, all graduates must possess a range of content knowledge, skills, and motivation to succeed that can only come from a rigorous, rich, and well- rounded education. Throughout New Mexico and the United States, it has become expected that high school graduates need to continue their education in a postsecondary course of study, program, or training series if they are to have options and opportunities in the modern competitive job market.

GMCS’s College, Career, and Civic Readiness Department has worked with every high school to develop high interest career pathways at each of the area high schools while establishing clear, and consistent high learning goals that focus on preparing our students for opportunities after formalized K-12 schooling is complete. Students still focus on core subject matter in English-Language Arts, math, science, and history but set a foundation for even greater success and growth by making the learning relevant to what students are interested in for their life goals.

GMCS encourages families and students to review the different school pathway options and start a conversation about what pathway best fits the interests and goals of your child.

Please contact schools, principals, and/or counselors for more information about the offerings your school.

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ZUNI AND ITS BEAUTY

By Kenneth Maxymowich It’s beginning to look a lot like Christmas here in Zuni. Temperatures have been dropping and the snow has stayed on the ground for longer than a few days now.

The end of November brought the end of Thanksgiving and then the end of Shalako. The Shalako ceremony has brought countless blessings to newly built homes. Shalako brings the Zuni year to an end and blessings for a prosperous, productive and healthy new year. With Deshkwi and fasting behind us we are fortunate to have a new year upon us.

At the time of writing this it is Christmas Eve here in the village and while the world awaits Christmas, here in Zuni we have been listening to prayers at the plaza and the choosing of the upcoming year’s Shalako.

Not only do we have a new year to look forward to, but also a new Governor, Lieutenant Governor and Zuni council. The election of midDecember in the Pueblo has brought mostly new blood to the village political scene.

The Middle Village has been bustling with voters and also those asking for votes. With Deshkwi behind us we also have artists selling again to support their families.

One Lady that has been creating beautiful jewelry in Zuni for a lifetime is Veranda Kallestewa. Veranda’s story does not sound much different than other artists growing up in Zuni. Zuni Pueblo has not always been the easiest place to grow up. As now, alcoholism and addictions affect so many incredibly talented artists and their families. Veranda’s story begins when she is in 8th grade and nearly 14 years old. She grew up in the middle village near the big plaza, next to the Old Mission Church. While teenagers in other communities may have been having the time of their lives and only worried about their studies, Veranda was already wanting to support herself.

Growing up in her household

was not always easy for a young Veranda but she was determined and knew a better life could be accomplished by creating jewelry. She knew she had to fend for herself. She intently watched her mother Christine Lasiloo Kanteena as a silversmith busy working on her jewelry. She remembers her mom teaching and coaching her. She remembers borrowing her mom’s designs and using only those patterns to survive. She remembers getting better and better as time passed and the pride that came along with it.

As she slowly started selling her jewelry or trading for blankets and rugs, Veranda was inspired to work even harder. Not only was her survival at stake but also her younger sibling’s lives. With only her mother’s designs and patterns she continued

Veranda Kallestewa to learn and discover new techniques. Veranda’s Aunt,

household.

She felt as though she was playing the mother role to her younger siblings even at such a young age.

the late Julia Tucson was a great inspiration and teacher when it came to silversmithing.

With her hard work, Veranda started to support her younger siblings. She worked to purchase school clothes, supplies and food for the

Even with all the struggles of growing up in the middle village, Veranda Kallestewa was a determined teenager.

She chose to survive and while at St. Anthony’s she graduated 8th grade and went on to high school. While in high school she only got better and more passionate about creating jewelry.

This young lady was so determined to carry on her family tradition especially her mother’s patterns and legacy.

Veranda just loves daisies, and she tells me that she takes great joy in making her flower jewelry. Her flowers are as close to daisies as she can come artistically.

While still in high school Veranda met Ben Kallestewa.

After enjoying their time together, the two eventually married. The couple used her mom’s

designs and patterns to begin their new life together working.

Their love for each other, mutual respect, admiration and support was a key element for their success and life together. Working together the now married couple created different forms of jewelry including earrings, bracelets, chokers, rings, concho belts, squash blossoms, belt buckles, pendants and traditional manta pins. Ben’s side of the family was also incredibly well known for their jewelry making. The husbandand-wife teams that created beautiful jewelry were Lapell and Mary Kallestewa, Ralph and Lily Kallestewa, and

Neil and Sullan Kallestewa.

In most cases the husband would work on the silverwork and the wives would do the inlay work. It was a good time to create and sell jewelry as worldwide demand for Zuni made art was growing rapidly. Ben Kallestewa like other young men in the village

was involved with religious duties and commitments. He was involved in helping his Elk Clan brothers and would eventually become head Komosona of his Kiva group. Ben also made the pilgrimage to the Grand Canyon to Ribbon Falls where it’s said the original Zuni people came up from the previous third world.

With all the couple’s commitments and young family, they continued to prosper working steadily on their jewelry.

In January of 1984 Ben Kallestewa, then head Komosona and Chauncey Simplicio, then Governor of Zuni Pueblo appeared before the Senate and House of Representatives to express the need for religious ancestral lands to be returned to the Zuni Tribe. This land was used by Zunis since time immemorial for sustenance and the performance of religious practices and ceremony. They wanted this land to be again part of the Zuni Reservation. They went as representatives of the Zuni people to fight for their Kolhuwalawa Yolanne back. They were fighting to keep Zuni culture and Zuni religious practices alive on the land their forefathers practiced their religious activities on.

They wanted these religious mountains back to keep on their traditions as their forefathers had done before them. Mr. Ben Kallestewa was a selfless yet influential leader that loved his community very much and cared for the preservation of Zuni ancestral culture, important religious activities and the people of his village.

would be so proud of his beautiful family as he has created all the jewelry the grandchildren wear.

As we begin a new year, Veranda continues to work on her incredibly beautiful jewelry! She is excited about the future and her art because her daughter Benina Kallestewa is carrying on creating the gorgeous family jewelry. She is also fortunate to work closely with her grandson Vernal Kallestewa as his work is gaining popularity in Santa Fe. We all wish Veranda and her talented family all the best and blessings for continued health, happiness, productivity and prosperity in wherever their art takes them. It’s amazing to have such creative artists among us!

The married couple continued to create beautiful jewelry side by side into the new millennium and beyond. They consider their art to be contemporary channel work. While Ben would be working away at his regular 8-hour job, Veranda would be taking HON DOBINDE care of their young family and also working on her jewelry. To get away from their worktables, both would enjoy hauling wood A:HOI’ Elahkwa, Kenny for themselves and also helping others. They would love to get out to Albuquerque and visit good friends. They would also enjoy getting out to Ojo where Ben’s parents lived and where their gardens flourished.

Ben and Veranda eventually had four children with one daughter and three sons. Nowadays Veranda enjoys travelling to Albuquerque to visit her sons and Grandchildren.

She now boasts having 11 Grandchildren and just loves spending time with them all.

She tells me how proud she is of all her children and Grandchildren.

She tells me that 3 of her granddaughters have been chosen as Junior Miss Zuni and one as Zuni Princess.

Grandpa Ben

MCKINLEY COUNTY DWI PREVENTION PROGRAM WOULD LIKE TO WISH EVERYONE A SAFE BRAND

ACCORDING TO CDC, 29 PEOPLE DIE DUE TO ALCOHOL RELATED VEHICLE CRASHES EVERY DAY IN THE U.S. AS WE BRING IN THE NEW YEAR AND MAKE RESOLUTIONS FOR OUR 2023 SEASON, LET'S ADD NOT TO DRINK AND DRIVE TO THE LIST.

Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. (2022, July 5). Alcohol use basics. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.

Retrieved December 14, 2022, from https://www.cdc.gov/alcohol/fact-sheets.htm

January 2023

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LINDA POPELISH

(Our) Lady of the Laundromat

LEON CHEE

LISA BLANCO PHOTO AND POEM

The Winter Tree Surrounded by a field of white, she greets the morning with ice covered branches, as sharp as the blade of a knife.

Her frozen branches heavy and aching from the long cold night of sleet and snow.

Her beauty frozen as winter has claimed her, bare, motionless and exposed.

Solitude is all around her and it seems as if time has stood still, as she is isolated and all alone.

She longs for the day the snow will thaw and the sun will greet her with rays of kindness.

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Laundromat – Day One Lil is washing whites, early on a Wednesday.

She could be sad, but she could not be smelly.

Doing laundry changes her mental world from dirty to clean. The sound of the tumbler, that might denote chaos to someone else, soothes her and gives her hope.

From her faded plastic chair, Lil glances around and notices only one other person in the room.

The woman’s feet primly crossed at the ankles, her hands in her lap efficiently knitting – no, crocheting – something -- a bright orange, long something. Much brighter than her chair. As Lil surreptitiously draws her eyes up from lap to head, she is startled. Not a dowdy elderly lady but a woman maybe only 50. Older than me, but not old, Lil thinks. The woman looks up and smiles and Lil surprises herself by going over and sitting across from her. Leaning in the woman looks inquiringly into Lil’s eyes.

And it flows out—all of it. Slowly, but on and on: the great find of a deep amazing love, her strange fear of its loss, and now the grief of its actual loss--the connection that she thought sustainable, not surviving. “Examine and fly free,” “Go deep to go wide” says the crocheting lady.

Lil laughs. “Sounds like some kind of jumbled football metaphor ‘he’ would say”. But she does go down deep for maybe 15 minutes, finally exploring why. And, yes, glimmers of a wider perspective, a deeper sense of understanding, of acceptance, of forgiveness even, soften her. The washer clicks off. When Lil turns from the pulling sheets and undies out of the machine, she finds the room empty.

Laundromat – Day Two Her wearables in the suds. All alone this time, she idly paces around the room. And there, over the crocheter’s chair back, pinned on tiny straight rows of the stiches of a vermilion scarf, is a note: “For you, tight ponytail- beige sweater woman”.

Lil reaches out then pulls back. She goes and gets her pants, shirts, socks from the dryer. With her neutrals neatly nested in her basket, she lightly retrieves the scarf, thrilling at its softness.

Neon orange draped over her shoulders, Lil heads out. “Where was that lady’s laundry last time?” stops her for a moment. But only a moment.

Linda Popelish—June 12, 2022 Inspiration from Lucia Berlin. See: https://tinhouse. com/45191-2/ critique of Lucia Berlin’s “Angel’s Laundromat” in A Manual for Cleaning Women.

LUCY LIU

Night of the apocalypse A scream reaches out from the east, the night is falling. Dan looks around frantically as he grabs for his knife. He sees an army of Pollags marching across the desert field. The people from the town in which he lives are already running from the oncoming army, but Dan does not see any sense in running from his fate. He cannot fight alone.

When Dan was just a boy, he had seen those Pollags kill two boys he knew as well as his dad and mom. He had hated the Pollags ever since. These beings were not natural, they were made by humans, but Pollag skin is more blue toned than pink. And, like their creators, they are evil. Desert Pollag was the first-place human beings had seen the strange monsters. This was why they were named Pollags.

Dan was thinking hard.

The army came closer as Dan stood there watching.

He decided that he would fight even if he was alone, for Dan hated those wicked Pollags. He looked up and prepared himself like a warrior ready for war. Dan is not afraid.

Before Dan’s dad had died, he had taught Dan that the Pollags fed on fear. So, Dan had learned to put away his fear.

The army of Pollags were focused on the people running from them. As the evil beasts ran around and past him, Dan began to fight the Pollags. At first, he fought with his own small knife, but then he grabbed one of the dead Pollag’s sword. Dan slashed with the sword at a rather large Pollag. It had a big sword that was more powerful than the one Dan was using. He hoped to take it. . . he slewed the Pollag and grabbed its sword.

As Dan continued fighting the Pollags he saw from the edge of his vision a huge aircraft. It was unlike an American aircraft, had no sound, and was much bigger.

It came down for a landing on Desert Pollag. A huge door opened in the aircraft and Dan saw another army of Pollags jumping out for the battle.

Dan looked away from the ugly beast he was fighting and at the aircraft. In that brief moment Dan found himself lying on the ground and a Pollag standing over him. Dan swung his sword but missed. The Pollag swung its sword at Dan, and Dan covered his eyes, expecting to die. He waits, but the sword does not hit him. There is a growl, and he hears the Pollag fall down dead.

When Dan opened his eyes, he saw another boy fighting near him! He grabbed the sword he had dropped when the Pollag had nearly killed him over and leaped to his feet to fight again.

“I’m Albern!” The boy shouted.

“My name is Dan!” Dan replied. The two boys fought back-to-back through the night until the dawn was upon them.

When the sun rose at last, it revealed the bodies of the defeated Pollag army all around them.

MIGUEL OTERO

2023 LUDA SPENCER SUNSET RAINBOW

A M ’ S H ID E R S TRA and G N I R A SO IRIT e SP yo n

er d v e sh d an i . w r e a e s e W bl e s Y w e a N l u f ce a e p

505-722-5500 • 216 W Coal Ave. Winter Hours: Tuesday through Saturday 10AM-4PM

January 2023

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JANUARY 2023

January 14

The Gallup Journey magazine has been part of our community for over 15 years!

W

e have celebrated the opening of new businesses, introduced you to people who make Gallup the unique place it is and have done all of this with a positive voice.

We are your free community magazine. That means that you represent the voices of our community, the ideas, the people and the businesses.

All of us have a story to tell about our community. Stories that represent the best of Gallup. We want to hear those stories!

So, if you want to share that Gallup story with our readers, we invite you to put it into words.

If you are interested please contact by phone 722-3399 or send us an email, gallupjourney@gmail.com.

Stories are due by the 20th of each month and need to be around 800 words. Remember to include images.

Thank you for making the Gallup Journey our favorite community magazine.

4:00pm – 6:00pm Show Opening - Reflect & Refract: Diné Photography & Visual Sovereignty by Guest Curator Rapheal Begay at ART123 Gallery Reflect & Refract: Diné Photography & Visual Sovereignty celebrates select artists› relationships to and perspective of Dinétah, the Navajo homeland. Renowned for its scenic landscapes, the Navajo Nation radiates identity, security, and belonging while inspiring visual forms of cultural expression and creative advocacy.

Reflect & Refract is on view through February 4.

(ART123 Gallery Hours: Tuesdays - Saturdays from 12 6pm.)

6:00 pm Guest Curator Talk by Rapheal Begay Go behind the scenes of Reflect & Refract.

In-person at ART123 Gallery Live-streaming on the @ gallupARTS Facebook page January 25 6:00 pm – 9:00 pm Wine & Painting: Snow Birds at ART123 Gallery Have a creative night out!

Register at www.galluparts.org/ wine-and-painting

Open Mic Night 6:00 pm to 8:00 pm Camille’s Sidewalk Café

January 2023

Revolution Chess Club The Revolution Chess Club will host a free and open chess event from 6 to 7:30 p.m. every Wednesday in the Rio West Mall food court. Players of all skill levels are welcome to play. Chess sets and clocks are available, or feel free to bring your own.

January 19

January 27

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On-going Event

YES I DO!

I want a copy of God's message of strenth, hope and love. (Psalms and Proverbs).

I understand there is no charge. IT IS FREE! NAME: ADDRESS: CITY: STATE:

ZIP:

PLEASE WRITE CLEARLY Allow A Few Weeks For Delivery Mail to: PO BOX 2025 Gallup, NM 87305

January Events at the Octavia Fellin Public Library Holiday Closure The Octavia Fellin Public Library and the Children & Youth Library will be closed December 31st - January 2nd in observance of New Year’s Day. During that time, OFPL’s online services, as always, will be available at ofpl.online featuring downloadable magazines, e-books, audio-books, streaming movies, virtual programs, and many other resources. Email bmartin@ gallupnm.gov or call (505) 863-1291 for more information.

Google Career Certificate Scholarship Jump-start your career with a Google Career Certificate scholarship. Prepare for entry-level positions in Data Analytics, IT Support, Project Management, or User Experience (UX) design no college degree or relevant experience required. Learn the skills to be job-ready in six months with opportunities to over 1.3 million jobs and an average starting salary of $63,600 per year.

Apply for a scholarship at ofpl.online. Email bmartin@gallupnm. gov or call (505) 863-1291 for more information.

Build-Your-Own-Bundle Build-Your-Own-Book Bundle with OFPL staff who will create a bundle of material specially for you! Let us know what type of materials and genres you are interested in, we’ll browse for you and create a custom bundle of material for you to pick-up curbside.

Give us 48 hours to get your material together and our staff will contact you to schedule a pick-up date. Email bmartin@gallupnm. gov or call (505) 863-1291 for more information.

We READ, We TALK Book Club Register at ofpl.online for a copy of Shutter by Ramona Emerson while supplies last! This blood-chilling debut set in New Mexico’s Navajo Nation is equal parts gripping crime thriller, supernatural horror, and poignant portrayal of coming of age on the reservation.

Discussions will be held in February via Zoom or in person at the Main Library with the author in attendance February 4th.

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

Chess Club Join the chess club at OFPL! Every Tuesday and Friday at 4:30 PM at the Children & Youth Library. Through the game of chess, members of the club are able to bond and improve their chess skills! Tuesday we will learn and practice chess theory and strategy together. Friday we will compete in a tournament-style format. All ages are welcome, although this is targeted at the age 8-18 range. Participants do not need to attend every event.

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

Teen Paint Night Join OFPL in-person at the Children & Youth Library on January 11th & 25th at 5:00 PM to create Kawaii art using acrylics. In this immersive workshop, learn about Kawaii, a Japanese-inspired art as we build our drawing and painting skills.

Supplies will be provided. Email jwhitman@gallupnm.gov or call (505) 863-1291 for more information.

UPCOMING EVENTS NEW YEARS DAY JANUARY 1

STUDENTS RETURN TO SCHOOL JANUARY 2

GMCS BOARD MEETING JANUARY 9

MARTIN LUTHER KING JR DAY JANUARY 16

DISTRICT SPELLING BEE JANUARY 18

GMCS BOARD MEETING JANUARY 30

FOR MORE INFORMATION GO TO WWW.GMCS.ORG OR CALL

505-721-1000 January 2023

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Walking in Beauty

10,000 Steps

Tracking and recording your daily steps has become the new rave. You can keep track of them on all sorts of devices, an apple watch, a fitbit, a phone, or even just the good ol’ step counter that can go on your shoe. Have a contest among your friends, family, or coworkers to see who can take the most steps that week or day.

Here are some easy ways to get your daily 10,000 steps in each day….

Park farther from the grocery store Walk to work Walk to lunch instead of driving Take the stairs when you can Take breaks in between working on your computer Purchase a treadmill desk Take a walk after dinner Take the dog for a walk Spend a lot of time on the phone, incorporate that into walking at the same time Take your meetings on a walk Any movement throughout the day is beneficial for all of us! Pick one of these to add to your daily routine.

Daisy Arsenault Registered Dietitian

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January 2023

PHYLLIS CASUSE

ORION ROANHORSE

SKYE BLACKBULL

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January 2023

SCOTT WILLIAMS

Pro Gutters Seamless Gutters

RMCHCS IS PROUD TO WELCOME BACK

Matthew S. Spiva, DPM, FACFAS, FACPM Diplomat of the American Board of Foot and Ankle Surgery Diplomat of the American Board of Podiatric Medicine Added Qualification of Wound Care and Limb Preservation Vice Chair of the New Mexico State Board of Podiatry Specialty Services: Wound Care and Amputation Prevention Charcot Arthropathy Sports Injuries Flatfeet, Orthotics, Heel Pain Foot and Ankle Fractures and Sprains Bunions, Hammertoes, Foot Pain Corns Calluses, Ingrowing Toenails Diabetic Preventative Foot Care Reconstructive Foot and Ankle Surgery

Gutter Cleaning Highest Quality Materials

Schedule an appointment (505) 863-7200 Red Rock Specialty Clinic 1900 Red Rock Drive, Gallup, NM 8 AM - 5 PM, Monday - Friday

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FURNITURE APPLIANCES ELECTRONICS & Much More

Mon-Fri 9am - 6pm Saturday 10am - 6pm

101 North 3rd Street • Gallup NM • 505-722-2250 January 2023

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UNM names Dr. Sabrina Ezzell as UNM-Gallup chancellor University of New Mexico Provost and Executive Vice President for Academic Affairs James Holloway has named Dr. Sabrina Ezzell as chancellor for the UNMGallup branch campus, effective Jan. 1, 2023.

Ezzell brings 20 years of experience in higher education to UNM-Gallup where she has served as interim chancellor since July 2022. Ezzell began her academic career in 2003 as a clinical instructor in the UNMGallup Nursing Program after a rewarding career as a registered nurse.

“Dr. Ezzell is dedicated to the GallupMcKinley community,” said James Holloway, provost and executive vice president for Academic Affairs. “Her dedication as an educator and her tremendous skill as an academic administrator makes her the perfect leader for UNM-Gallup. She has excelled as interim chancellor, and I look forward to continuing to work with her for the benefit of the people of New Mexico.”

“I am very honored to be selected as the UNM-Gallup Chancellor. The leadership role supports collaboration with so many people who care about our community,” said Ezzell.

“I look forward to working with UNMGallup faculty and staff to identify ways to further support student success. I also look forward to working with community members to increase opportunities for our graduates. UNM-Gallup is a wonderful resource and I appreciate being able to work with my colleagues and community to provide essential education and professional opportunities.”

Originally from Clovis, N.M., Ezzell has a long history of serving in healthcare in the Gallup-area, a place she’s called home since 2002 and has spent the past seven years at UNM-Gallup in a variety of positions. Prior to her appointment as interim chancellor, she was an associate professor and chair of the Education, Health and Human Services department, and as an assistant professor and the nursing program director. Ezzell began her career at UNM-Gallup as a nursing instructor in 2015 and served the institution on two previous occasions as a lecturer/ clinical instructor position at the branch campus (2007-08), and clinical instructor in the nursing program (2003-05).

In each of her roles at UNM-Gallup, 42

January 2023

Dr. Sabrina Ezzell Ezzell has worked with local and statewide industries. As nursing program director, she formed partnerships with primary schools, hospitals, and clinics across the northwest region to provide nursing students with the required clinical experiences. She continues to work closely with leaders in health care serving on the board of the New Mexico Center for Nursing Excellence and as a participant in the UNM Health Sciences Center strategic planning process.

Ezzell’s collegiate service also includes committee work at UNM-Gallup for curriculum and distance learning, the New Mexico Nursing Education Consortium as a Leadership Council Member (2016-19), the New Mexico Board of Nursing Education Advisory Committee and the Curriculum and Articulation Committee for the N.M. Higher Education Department.

In the public health arena, Ezzell has served in two areas for the New Mexico Department of Health as a Hepatitis Program Nurse Contractor (2009-13) and McKinley County Nurse Manager (2005-07). She began her career in a hospital setting as a registered nurse at Lovelace Medical Center ((199197), Sage Memorial Hospital on the Navajo reservation in Ganado, Ariz. (1997-2002) and Rehoboth McKinley Christian Hospital (2002-04).

“One thing I learned as a public health nurse was that education was directly linked

to a higher quality of life,” said Ezzell. “My hope was, and still is, that helping individuals achieve their educational goals will improve their mental and physical health, positively affecting their lives and the lives of those around them.”

Ezzell belongs to several professional organizations including the American Nurses Association, New Mexico Nurses Association and the New Mexico Center for Nursing Excellence where she is a current member of the board of directors. Her community service work includes efforts with Battered Families Services, New Mexico Child Abuse and Neglect Review Board and Special Olympics as a volunteer coach.

Ezzell holds an Ed.D. from Creighton University (Omaha, Neb.), a Master of Science in Nursing from Northern Arizona University (Flagstaff, Ariz.) and a Bachelor of Science in Nursing from UNM. She also earned an Associate of Science in Nursing from Eastern New Mexico.

Ezzell fills the position previously held

by James Malm, who completed his term as chancellor of UNM-Gallup this summer after serving since 2017.

Congratulations to the Winners of the Jerry's Cafe Christmas Photo Competition!

CE A PL T S FI R

CE A L P SECOND

ACE L P THIRD

E LAC P FOURTH

In the Spirit of Christmas!

People Reading

MHS Allstar Dance Team reading the Journey on a recent trip to NYC!

Meet and Greet with the 2023 Thunderbird Models: Laelah K., Jordyn O., Audrey H., Amaya S., Aliyah O., and Geri M. The promotional models autographed and handed out complimentary calendars during Thunderbird Supply Co. Super Sale on Saturday, December 3 from 12pm - 4pm.

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January 2023

RED ROCK BALLOON RALLY SPONSORS 2022 Butler’s Office Supply LAM Corporation IHeart Radio Mass Ascension Cedar & Ivy Real Estate Rocket Café Liquor & Lounge McKinley County Indian Dances Richardson Trading Post Supersmith Inc. Amigo Automotive Group Equipment Share Pinnacle Bank Rio West Mall Sonic Drive Horizon Enterprises Plumbing & Heating Sammy C’s Rock N’ Sports Pub & Grille New Mexico Gas Company Four Corner’s Welding & Gas Supply Family Medicine Associates Rico Auto Complex Gallup Eye Group Big Mike’s Equipment Rental Jerry’s Café Perry Null Trading Company

Thank you To Our Sponsors & Volunteers!

ADOBE STORAGE ANASAZI TRADERS BUBANY INSURANCE CASTLE FURNITURE CHAMPION FORD CHICK-FIL-A CONTINENTAL DIVIDE ELECTRIC COOPERATIVE DEPAULI ENGINEERING DOGHOUSE PRODUCTIONS EARL’S RESTAURANT EL RANCHO HOTEL/MOTEL ELLIS TANNER TRADING COMPANY FARMERS INSURANCE FIRST AMERICAN TRADERS FOUR DIRECTIONS WELLNESS GALLUP LUMBER GALLUP PROPANE SERVICE GALLUP PUMPING VISIT GALLUP GLENN’S BAKERY GRANDPA’S GRILL HIGH DESERT QSRs HINKLEY SIGNS JOHNS USED CARS

KUSTOM INDUSTRIES MASON & ISAACSON, PA MAYNARD BUCKLES MURPHY BUILDERS NEWBERRY & ASSOCIATES OASIS MEDITERRANEAN RESTAURANT PAGOSA ADVENTURE POINT S TIRE PORTER DENTAL RE/MAX RED ROCK SECURITY SERVICES RED ROOF INN ROSEBROUGH, FOWLES & FOUTZ, P.C. SACRED WIND COMMUNICATION SHA-DA-NE’ CONSULTING TBC GENERAL CONTRACTING THE ELECTRONIC CENTER THE LEBECK FAMILY THE ROCKET CAFÉ THOMAS BISCHOFF TONY GONZALES, CPA TURNEY’S INC. US BANK VIRGIE’S RESTAURANT WD MOORE

So Long My Friend

By Kenneth Riege USAF Veteran

O

f all the stories I have written this one was the toughest as this is a farewell (for now) to my dearest friend Hershey. As I am writing this, I am already getting those teary-eyed feelings, but will push through.

November 29th, 2022, started out fine. Waking up and getting ready for work just like any other day.

However, it didn’t take long for this day to become one of the saddest days I can remember.

I guess the first call came in around 7:30 from The National Medal of Honor Society and then from his fellow Medal of Honor Recipients and then calls to and from Hershey’s family.

That terrible day is sort of a blur now as I was receiving and making many different

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January 2023 January 2023

protocol and dealing with the feelings of losing someone so close to you.

There were many requests from news media too, but for myself I wasn’t ready to share my feelings regarding Hershey’s passing. Now, I feel more comfortable in sharing a few Hershey stories and pictures of our times together.

Hershey had the greatest sense of humor and loved a good belly laugh and had the best smile.

My family is so truly blessed to have had Hershey as such an important part of our lives for many years. Some of our best times were just hanging out with him at his house. Most of the visits always included working on his jigsaw puzzles, watching sports or just sitting at the table and sharing stories.

I dearly miss my friend.

I miss calling him (which Hershey told me I always called him on Mondays to talk about the weekend football games) and hearing his voice. I miss his smile and his sense of humor. I will always cherish the times that we had together and to do my best to live by his motto of: “Always Believe in Yourself, God and Country.”

calls and texting to share the sad news and to help with the planning of his funeral.

There is a lot of planning and coordinating when it comes to a funeral for a veteran of Hershey’s stature and while the services were beautiful and so befitting, he would have fussed about all the attention he was getting.

Hershey was such a simple and humble man.

The rest of that day was spent at home while Retha and I shared our very own “Hershey Stories” mixed between laughs and or course tears.

The following week My wife Retha took this picture. seems so long ago now She had that special ability to bring with coordinating room out the kid in Hershey and to make reservations, military him laugh.

I just call this one “Hershey and the Aliens”

These are a few of our favorite pictures spending time with Hershey. He had received some chocolates from a friend and as everyone knew, Hershey had a sweet tooth. He also loved a good bottle of wine. Here we are trying to decide which chocolate to try next.

As I mentioned earlier, Hershey loved football and he really enjoyed going to a Miyamura High School Football Game to cheer on his Patriots.

He loved to get dressed in his Miyamura High School Gear and enjoy some popcorn and a hot dog while at the game.

I will close with a poem written by Dave Kelly called This photo is my favorite selfie with Hershey.

Speaking of selfie’s, Hershey loved to take them with the kids at his school too.

“Fair Winds and Following Seas” Fair Winds and following seas May forever you feel, upon your cheek, the salty breeze Your spirit lives on in many a heart, Your words captured and never to depart.

May your loved ones be comforted knowing That heaven is where you are going.

For all that we have to do is look above, And we will be reminded of your love.

January 2023 January 2023

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LEON CHEE The sun sizzled across the desert floor; vague images shimmered in the distance. A horned toad scurried away in a hurry, not wanting to be crushed by the dust covered boots as the black images walked past. The toad scurrying away into the brush as the image walked past followed by the sounds of horse hooves clamping on the ground. The images, a man and his horse slowly making their way through the red earth desert where yucca plants, cliff roses, sagebrush and tumble weeds dotted the land. A trail of blood droplets in their wake along with money that blew freely out of the saddle bag.

They left footprints of struggled and weary steps. Off in the distance he saw a Navajo Hogan. They made their way in that direction, the dogs barked as a Navajo woman exited the Hogan with a rifle.

“Help me, please, I’ll give you Beso, money! please help me.” He said as he showed her his blood covered hands. She lowered the rifle as he fainted and fell to the ground…

He opened his eyes, blurred vision he noticed a small bed and small kitchen against the wall. A stove with fire crackling in the center of the round house. He heard of structured homes like this called a Hogan. He moved to sit up and felt the pain in his left hip. He looked down and saw bandages under his shirt. But he was alone in the Hogan. He managed to stand himself up and walk to the front door.

He heard the dogs barking outside, he rested against the small, framed door and squinted his eyes from the brightness outside. He could see a corral with his horse pinned inside eating some brush.

The horse looked at ease. He noticed the Navajo woman, young in age, around the age of 30 walking back towards the Hogan. The closer she got to the Hogan she noticed him standing. She sped up and ran up to him, in Diné bizaad, the Navajo language she said, “What are you doing up? Your wounds are not healed. You’ll reopen your gunshot wound!”.

She nudged him to the bed, “Lie down, you’ve been asleep for 2 weeks”.

He laid down, in the back of his mind he wondered where the money was. But did not ask, his health was more important. He laid down and she covered him with a blanket. She said, “Your money is safe, I buried it, I’ll show you when your healthy enough”. But he did not understand her, but the calm in her voice assured him everything was OK.

TIO-O

SARAH MENAPACE-WALKER

Prehistoric Gardens & Rainforest We ventured out of our truck camper and took a trip back in time to the Prehistoric Gardens & Rainforest in Port Orford, Oregon, 16 miles north of Gold Beach this summer.

We began our quarter mile walk by following dinosaur tracks. You feel as if you have been transported back in time to this 300-year-old rainforest along the Oregon Coast that receives 80 to 100 inches of rain per year. The beauty of this rainforest environment is a feast for the eyes with lush green vegetation in abundance along with a thick canopy of treetop branches and leaves. This is the best and most unique way to experience this amazing landscape. As you walk along the trail, you go over foot bridges with a creek running underneath with plant life overflowing from its banks. You also can view an old wagon road the gold miners (prospectors) used to gain passage to the coast.

Oh, did I forget to mention that there are life-size dinosaurs, too! There are 23 different dinosaurs along the trail, but a PINK Triceratops! You got to be kidding me! You can’t miss this Jurassic experience that has been a roadside attraction since 1955. You can’t miss finding the park as there is a giant T-Rex standing outside to greet you or EAT You!

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January 2023

TAYLOR CISCO AND HER HORSE GUNNER

ENCHANTMENT PHYSICAL THERAPY Organic to New Mexico & Navajo Nation

We are a progress-driven Physical Therapy Clinic.

Navajo-Owned business located in Gallup & Rio Rancho, NM Professional and Caring Staff One-on-One Care We take pride in Manual Therapy, Patient Education and Healing.

Visit our website: www.enchantmentpt.com

505-863-4199

1900 East Hwy 66 Suite A in Butler’s Square Owners Anthony & Patricia Arviso

JCPENNEY, HOBBY LOBBY, FIVE BELOW, ASHLEY HOMESTORE, T&R PAWN, SOY GOOY TERIYAKI, ENVUS, METRO BARBER SHOP, HOT TOPIC, SPORTS NATION, DONGRAMY, ORANGE JULIUS, TROPICAL ESPRESSO, DR.KHOURY EYECARE, JCPENNY BEAUTY, TCC VERIZON, BTAC, FYE, RUE21, MAURICES,GNC,FINISH LINE, FOOT LOCKER, THE SHOE DEPT ENCORE, JOURNEY’S ,CLAIRE’S, CELL NEEDS, TREASURES, UPTOWN, SERENANDE MUSIC, URBAN WEAR, PHONE MEDIC, ANIMORE, Q&A BILLIARDS, T-MOBILE, METRO FAMILY CUTS, AND MORE!

8-5 Monday and Friday 8-8 Tuesday - Thursday

Book your Birthday Party Today!

Gallup SK8 Connect 230 Deeann Ave, Gallup, NM Call:

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New Hours: Friday: 6pm to 10pm Saturday: 12pm to 4pm & 5pm to 10pm Sunday: 12pm to 4pm

January 2023

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ORLINE BEGAYE

VALENCIA SMITH-CHAPITO

DANIEL ENSIGN

50

January 2023

CODY SHOEMAKER

Letterman Jackets 1500 S. Second Street, Gallup, New Mexico

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Winter Hours: Monday-Friday 10 am to 5 pm • Closed Saturday until Feb.

s U n i o J Learn more: www.rcsnm.org • Supportive Staff

• Engaging opportunities that benefit the whole child • Tuition Assistance Available Contact us at 505-863-4412 for more information

Online Applications for 2023/24 Open February 1, 2023 January 2023

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PHYLLIS CASUSE

KRISTIN YAZZIE

SCOTT WILLIAMS

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January 2023

MIGUEL OTERO

e t i l E L

Y R D AUN

would like to wish you a

Happy New Year!

208 E. Highway 66 • Gallup, NM • 505.863.9543

EDUCATIONAL CHILD CARE UPDATE

Best wishes for 2023! My hope is that it continues to be an exciting time for expanding high quality, accessible, affordable childcare in New Mexico. I have had very positive meetings in the last month. I’m doing reading and research and continuing to explore options for combining education and childcare.

I’ve met with Dr. Sabrina Ezzell, the Interim Chancellor and Mr. Robert Greigo, Director of Operations at the Gallup branch of UNM, to discuss their efforts to bring a student and community childcare center back to the branch.

I’ve spoken with Mr. Dwayne Casias, the Director of Head Start in Gallup, to learn more about the education opportunities for young children provided by Head Start (since 1983!).

I had a rewarding meeting with principal leaders of Avenues, Ms. Ginny Beamsley and Ms. Regina Huffman. Avenues provides home visits which include several services for families to help with prenatal and early childhood challenges.

And I met with Ms. Lara Lehman, an Educational Consultant in Early Childhood Services Center for UNM. I’m continuing to meet with MCECC, the McKinley Early

Childhood Coalition. I’ve also had very productive, informative phone conversations with childcare professionals and educators.

Working to provide childcare is complex and challenging. My perspective and focus are to learn more about the inner workings of the many parts of the system that is in place and developing. I may decide to form a nonprofit organization. Please let me know if you have any questions, opinions or interest in this potential organization.

I’m continuing to follow developments from ECECD, I highly recommend checking out the website. The department is really doing a lot to help children and parents in our state.

If you aren’t familiar with ECECD (Early Childhood Education and Care Department) it’s one of four cabinet level departments in the country focused on providing childcare, and importantly, combining previously separate divisions into one organization.

My focus has been learning more about all that goes in to providing early childhood education and childcare; it’s a lot! There is a lot of education and training for childcare professionals, which is vital for high quality, consistent and trustworthy services. It’s a

very good start that the State upped the basic pay scale for childcare from $12 to $15/hour, but it’s just a start. It’s also very helpful that the State acted to do away with the copays for childcare services. However, we need better pay, better affordability and a lot more childcare options, and it takes time to create them. VERY frustrating for parents now.

In addition to the professionals who provide childcare services, there are many moving parts to creating the structures that serve to support care and education. There are a lot of regulations, requirements, and ways of showing accountability. Someone who plans to be an owner/operator of childcare services needs to learn a lot about the regulations and financial planning in order to adequately prepare for heading up an organization.

Partnering with an educational organization is another option, which is also complex. My intent is to explore these areas intensively before developing a more specific plan.

Please feel free to contact me, Dr. Vicki Handfield (clinical psychologist here in Gallup), vhandfield@gmail.com or 609 841 9159. I welcome your comments, questions, thoughts!

January 2023

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SKYE BLACKBULL

GWEN WILSON

ZAYPEE LAYUGAN

Family Nights Every Tuesday $2 dollar kids scoops

1205 E. Hwy 66 • Gallup NM 505-722-5445 54

January 2023

KARTHIK ANANDAN LISA BLANCO

KATHLEEN HEISCH MORNING GLORY

January 2023

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It takes a village to revive Diné bizaad UNM-Gallup professor Joe Kee stresses importance of daily use, community involvement in keeping Navajo language alive

By Richard Reyes senior public relations specialist

use in the home is diminishing, Kee said.

“If a language is not used, then it s a professor of Navajo eventually dies,” he said. “It becomes language, Joe Kee teaches extinct. It’s critical that language is Diné students their native used on an everyday basis.” tongue at The University of New In North America, there are about Mexico-Gallup, but he acknowledges 175 Native languages still spoken that classroom lessons on their own today, Kee said. Of that amount, are not enough to keep the language about 20 languages are still being alive. learned or spoken by children as their During his Nov. 30 presentation first language before they enter a entitled “Maintaining Native formal education system. About 30 Languages: The Critical Foundations languages are only spoken by parent for Language Strength and Survival,” generations, but not their children.

Kee talked about the challenges About 70 languages are spoken only in teaching young people Diné by grandparent generations or older. bizaad due to historical trauma and Kee said there’s a sense of shame generational gaps. among many Diné students who “Every day we hear Native come into his classroom and tell him languages are becoming critically they are unable to speak the Navajo endangered, that we’re losing the language. Many of them shed tears. language at a rapid rate, and that’s “I let them know, ‘It’s not your fault; very scary,” he said. “We have to work don’t blame yourself,’” Kee said. with communities. We have to work “There is a systematic history to the with school curriculums. That is really language loss and retention over the where it’s at. I have students who years.” come through my classes, and I tell He explained there is a legacy of them, ‘T’áá Hó Ájít’éego.’ It is up to early generations who were told not to you to succeed and up to you to be a speak their language, particularly those successful student.” who were forced to attend boarding However, Kee emphasized that schools.

Native American students are not Kee said Native children are also alone, and should not be alone, on being told that they will not be their journey to learn their language. successful if they continue to speak Kee said Native languages are their language. Meanwhile, Native oral-based, meaning they are meant languages are not being incorporated to be spoken and passed on through into early childhood education systems speaking. or they are introduced only as elective Native languages tend to be spoken classes. primarily within one’s home or one’s However, he insisted a bilingual community. They are not widely used education is beneficial for students and beyond that, but even then, language can lead to better academic success.

A

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“In the long term, bilingualism contributes to cognitive and social development, awareness of language, and becoming adept at problem solving,” he said. “The cultural teachings of our people can actually help these cognitive skills and build upon that. For that reason, many academic institutions are encouraged to incorporate some kind of cultural connection that their students come from.”

Kee acknowledged that language revitalization is no small feat though.

He said it takes a lifetime to reverse a language shift.

“The language is very kind,” he said.

“It takes care of us. It’s our language that has helped even the country in our recent past. It’s something that we hold to our heart, that we pray and exist because of the language we speak. It’s our connection to the spiritual base, the four directions, our homes and kivas and our livestock. All parts of life are interconnected and interwoven.

However, to understand the true foundational meaning of Navajo and Native, Indigenous teachings is that it takes something else when you hear it in your own Native language.”

At the end of his presentation, Kee noted he will be on sabbatical in the Spring 2023 semester working on creating a college-level Navajo language textbook that is culturebased. He will not have any classes at UNM-Gallup during that time, but he plans to return to teach Navajo language and Navajo government classes in the Fall 2023 semester.

Meanwhile, adjunct instructor Dr. Carolene Whitman is scheduled to teach Navajo language and Native American studies classes at UNMGallup during the Spring 2023 semester.

For information about how to enroll at UNM-Gallup, please visit gallup. unm.edu. Information about courses can be found under the Academics tab.

Professor Joe Kee, who teaches Navajo language and Navajo government courses, delivers a presentation on "Maintaining Native Languages" inside the Student Services and Technology Center on The University of New Mexico-Gallup campus Nov. 30.

For more information about UNMGallup, please visit gallup.unm.edu.

For more UNM-Gallup news and events, please visit gallup.unm.edu/ news.

Dr. Carolene Whitman, an adjunct instructor who also teaches Navajo language courses, comments near the end of Professor Joe Kee's presentation on "Maintaining Native Languages" inside the Student Services and Technology Center on The University of New MexicoGallup campus Nov. 30.

January January2023 2023

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DZUNI PHOTOGRAPHY

Best Christmas Gift Ever At 5 yrs. old, I was invited to my Aunt’s Holiday Dinner. Family, relatives and friends gathered. My mind was on “my Christmas gift” tucked somewhere in the pile under the Christmas tree.

We laughed, ate and sang! throughout the evening, I peeked at the tree; “My Gift, It’s all mine!”

Then Santa appeared. Excitement stirred. Finally, Presents!

Presents!

Names were called and the pile dwindled. I still had hope.

My siblings gleefully opened their gifts. Then there was none!

Sadness came upon me like a snowstorm. Pain pinched like frost bites.

Sadly, and quietly, I left the festive mood with emptiness, dragging myself through the dark blanket of snow.

My mom saw my departure and followed me to the swing set. We sat as she held me close to her heart and from her sweater pocket, she took out a brand new #2 Pencil and gave it to me; “Yes, My Christmas Gift!”

But The Best Christmas Gift Ever was the memory from this Holiday Dinner, is that I used that pencil to write this story. *Peace!

DZuni Photography

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