Gallup Sun • September 18, 2020

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505 Burgers & Wings 4 SEE PAGE

VOL 6 | ISSUE 286 | SEPTEMBER 18, 2020

BURRITOGATE?

What are McKinley County property taxes paying for?

By Beth Blakeman Associate Editor

T

he special audit that was the subject of arguments between RMCHCS and McKinley County is now in the

hands of the Internal Revenue Service.

State Auditor Brian Colón released a Special Audit report Sept. 14, stating that Hinkle & Landers, the Independent Public Accountant who conducted the audit made note of

significant issues that included findings related to management contracts, improper reimbursements, violations of internal controls and policies and procedures.

Also noted were issues concerning private inurement

transactions, which happen when an individual with significant influence over an organization, enters into arrangements with the nonprofit and receives benefits greater than he or she provides in return.

Page nine of the Hinkle

& La nders forensic audit, lists one of those inurements a s “ The CEO cha rged his daily breakfast burrito to RMCHCS.”

BURRITOGATE | SEE PAGE 14

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If you are a Parent of a special needs student who has questions or needs more support, please contact us at 505-721-1800.

Some students do currently qualify for an in-person learning option at a 5:1 ratio. Please know that the education, health and well-being of your family is of the upmost importance to us.

Gallup-McKinley County Schools has issued a Prior Written Notice that is available on the GMCS website at www.gmcs.org click on Parents tab and then Re-Opening Schools.

The Prior Written Notice (PWN) provides information related to services for special needs students during the COVID-19 pandemic: GMCS

will deliver Special Education and Related Services under various models Your Child will receive IEP services through technology, videoconferencing, tele-therapy, distance learning, hybrid models or otherwise in accordance with your child’s IEP If your child cannot receive IEP services through one of the methods listed above, GMCS will work with you to try and develop alternatives and/or IEP amendment to address the changes in services or accommodations (including in-person learning).

If GMCS cannot deliver all of your child’s IEP Services during the COVID-19 pandemic, the IEP team will work with you to see if compensatory education and/or recovery services are necessary.

Your child will need your participation and input in implementing his/her IEP. You and your child have protection under the Procedural Safeguards of the IDEA and New Mexico State Law At GMCS…Education Matters 2

Friday September 18, 2020 • Gallup Sun

NEWS

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BENCHCRAFT BY ASHLEY MILLENNIUM BY ASHLEY Gallup Sun • Friday September 18, 2020 3

NEWS

LOCAL NEWS

The 505 Burgers & Wings owner brings the goods literally

By Cody Begaye Sun Correspondent

A

s the owner of severa l busi nesses across Ga l lup, Morgan Newsom is no stranger to serving people.

Whether it is at R&M Furniture, 1985 Hwy. 602, or The 505 Burgers & Wings, 1982 Hwy. 602, he is always looking to provide the goods that people are looking for.

The Sun is happy to feature Newsom as a Gallup Sun Star, and met with him on Sept. 16 to speak about his life and career in Gallup.

BACKGROUND Newsom said he has been in Gallup for nearly 50 years now.

“I’m originally from the Dakotas. My parents brought me down here, and my dad was selling sewing machines to all the boarding schools,” Newsom said. “From there, he got into the furniture business and then after I finished high school, I got into the furniture business. I’ve been in the furniture business for about 38 years.”

The gap between high school and starting work at a furniture shop was filled by a job at the local mines, which ended when they were shut down, he added.

While he has been in the furniture business since 1982, Newsom added another store to his résumé in November 2010: a restaurant. Specifically, The 505 Burgers & Wings, which is right next door to R&M Furniture.

“It was through a magazine that I bought [where I had the idea], and there was this space in this shopping center I owned through my company, Newsom Rentals,” Newsom said. “I

thought if that space becomes available again, I’m going to take it and use it. It became available, and so I started the restaurant and it’s been going ever since.”

Newsom said he had no prior restaurant experience, outside of being a customer in one.

“It is a learning experience, every day in the restaurant business,” he said, describing how each work day goes. “The days start very early, and they go very late. We’ve got about 25 employees between all three companies and we just keep things going from there.”

He added Newsom Rentals is

Delivery driver George Smith opens the insulated food cabinet in the back of The 505 Burgers & Wings and Mama’s Kitchen delivery vehicle at 505 Burgers, 1982 Hwy. 602, in Gallup Sept. 16. Photo Credit: Cable Hoover

Gallup business owner Morgan Newsom works from his desk in the office of R&M Furniture in Gallup Sept. 16. Photo Credit: Cable Hoover his property company that owns the shopping center where R&M Furniture and The 505 Burgers & Wings are located, in addition to the Six Directions Indigenous School, 2055 Hwy. 602.

ADJUSTING TO NEW LIFE In the past six months since the COVID-19 pandemic was declared, life was upended for people and businesses. Owners have had to adjust to what has been dubbed “the new normal” with heightened safety

measures.

“I don’t know if it’s a new normal, but more of a different situation that everybody has to adapt to,” Newsom said.

“Whether you’re in a furniture or restaurant business, there’s changes in everything. It’s been a life experience, and we just have to do it.”

As a result of the increased precautions, restaurant customers became more dependent on takeout or drive-thru food if they wanted food prepared for them.

Some restaurants have offered delivery through the pandemic, but this has either been in places that have always had it such as pizza restaurants, or through third-party services that could stack multiple fees on top of a single order.

After witnessing and wondering about a vehicle that had delivered food to his home, Newsom took this opportunity to add delivery services to the restaurant.

Newsom said the restaurant acquired a car in August and had it outfitted to be a dedicated delivery vehicle, equipped with an insulated box to keep the customers’ food warm while in transit, ensuring it is only used for delivery purposes.

“That’s part of the new normal, where restaurants are going to have to start delivering,” he said. “I figured we’re doing a good service by doing it ourselves.”

The vehicle is used to deliver food for both The 505 Burgers & Wings and Mama’s Kitchen, 820 W. Maloney Ave., which is owned by Newsom’s sister, Lynn

Newsom-Silva.

The delivery driver, George Smith, spoke about starting to deliver food to customers.

“It’s new to me because I’ve never done delivery before, but I’m glad we’re able to provide it for customers that aren’t able to get out,” Smith said. “It’s nice to have local restaurants that are known for their food, to be able to deliver food from breakfast to dinner to people’s houses.”

Smith said the reception to restaurant delivery has been positive.

“Most of them are so appreciative,” he said. “They’re liking food, something other than pizza, being brought to their house.”

Newsom also said the customers have been liking the delivery services so far.

“It gets better and stronger every day,” he said. “I’ve also heard people come to me and say they like that the vehicle is used only for delivery and it’s outfitted for that. By doing delivery ourselves, we can get the food to people faster, warmer, and safer.”

WHAT’S INSIDE …

8 4

COVID IN SCHOOLS The latest numbers

CARLTON LANE CHEE The U.S. Army PFC is laid to rest

FIRE RESTRICTIONS Navajo Nation responds to droughts

DROP BOXES A possible answer to safe, secure voting

11 12 16 18

Friday September 18, 2020 • Gallup Sun

GALLUP FILM FESTIVAL The staple event will look different this year NEWS

CARES Small Business Continuity Grant Eligible businesses can qualify for up to $10,000 in funding.

Funding is first-come first-serve. Apply now!

Any business within the City of Gallup that meets the following eligibility criteria: 1. Business must have a physical location in the City of Gallup and no more than 1-50 full-time employees, or equivalent part-time employees, including the owner.

2. The business is headquartered (80% or more of the business is conducted) in the City of Gallup.

3. The business has a current business registration and has been in business prior to March 1, 2019.

4. Restaurants, bars, short-term lodging, and other non-essential organizations impacted by the local or state stay-at-home orders.

5. City of Gallup residents who engage in 1099 contract work (with a City business license).

6. Funds must be used toward overhead costs incurred or estimated as a result of required closures, provided those costs are not paid by insurance or by any other federal, state, or local program. Such costs may include employee wages, rent, or other organization expenses. These costs must be from March 2020- December 2020.

A maximum of $10,000 may be requested by the applicant.

7. Business revenues must not exceed 2 million dollars.

For information call (505) 722-2228 To apply visit: www.tinyurl.com/citygrant

Mayor Louie Bonaguidi Councilor Linda Garcia Councilor Michael Schaaf Councilor Yogash Kumar Councilor Fran Palochak

vector createdSeptember by pch.vector - www.freepik.com Gallup Sun •People Friday 18, 2020

5

NEWS

PUBLIC SAFETY

WEEKLY DWI REPORT Staff Reports FEATURED DWI Sam Smith Aug. 28, 11:10 pm Aggravated DWI McKinley County Sheriff’s Deputy Eric Jim was on patrol

Gallup Sun Publishing, LLC Publisher/Editor Babette Herrmann Office Manager Raenona Harvey Accounts Representative Sherry Kauzlarich Associate Editor Beth Blakeman Photography Knifewing Segura Ana Hudgeons Ryan Hudgeons Cable Hoover Correspondent/Editorial Asst.

Cody Begaye Dominic Aragon On the Cover Breakfast burrito plate Stock Image The Gallup Sun, published Fridays, is not responsible or liable for any claims or offerings, nor responsible for availability of products advertised. All rights reserved. Reproduction in whole or in part without permission is prohibited. The Gallup Sun distributes newspapers in McKinley, Cibola and Apache counties.

Office: 102 S. Second St., Gallup, NM 87301 POSTMASTER: Send address changes to Gallup Sun, PO Box 1212, Gallup, NM. Mailing Address: PO Box 1212 Gallup, NM 87305 www.gallupsun.com Phone: (505) 722-8994 Fax: (505) 212-0391 gallupsun@gmail.com Letter to the editor/guest column ACCEPTED BY EMAIL ONLY. State full name and city/town. No pen names. ID required. All submissions subjected to editor’s approval.

Guest columnists, email Sun for submission requirements.

6

when Metro Dispatch put out an attempt to locate a blue Chev y Silverado, w h ic h h a d been stolen from Red Hills Mobile Home Park about 11 pm.

Jim was traveling northbound on Highway 608 near Gallup Flea Market when a speeding truck pulled up behind him. Both

vehicles slowed near the stop light at the intersection of U.S. Highway 491 and Highway 608.

Jim noticed the truck matched the description of the stolen vehicle, so he advised Dispatch he had possibly located the suspect vehicle, which he then began following northbound on Chino Loop towards Gamerco.

The truck traveled quickly through the neighborhood and tried to make a right turn onto Summit Avenue. The driver lost control and the truck overturned off the highway. Jim advised Dispatch to send medical units and then inspected the vehicle.

Jim assisted the driver, Sam Smith, 28, of Gallup, out through the driver’s side window. As he helped him, Jim noted Smith smelled of alcohol and slurred his speech, so he placed him in his unit until medical personnel arrived.

Smith told Jim he had been with another person named Adrian in the crash, but Jim did not find any fresh footprints to indicate someone else had been present. Smith said he did not know who the vehicle belonged to because he was picked up, and eventually admitted to drinking three beers about an hour prior.

The owner of the vehicle, Terrance Hooper, arrived on scene shortly afterward. Hooper explained he had been at his mother’s house on Kevin Drive for a few minutes and left the engine running. When he exited the house, he saw the truck backing out of the driveway and speeding off.

Smith refused to be transported, but did agree to the standard field sobriety tests. He failed the tests and also refused to give a breath sample. He was taken to the county jail and booked, where Jim learned Smith had two outstanding bench warrants.

NMSP officer shot in an unprovoked attack on I-40 Staff Reports

C

IBOL A COUNT Y — When an officer approached a GMC pickup driven by a

THANK YOU ADVERTISERS AJ Tires & Auto Center - 12 Amazing Grace Insurance - 20 Bubany Insurance Agency - 15 Butler’s Office City - 16 Castle Furniture - 3 El Charritos - 11 505 Burger and Wings $ 1, 7, 17 Gallup Housing Authority - 9 Gallup McKinley County Schools - 2 Gallup Real True - 5 Genaro’s Cafe - 17 Grandpa’s Grill - 17 Keller Williams Realty - 1 Los Alamos National Laboratory - 8 New Mexico Credit Corp. - 11 Octavia Fellin LIbrary - 19 Peace NM Cannabis - 12 Pinnacle Bank - 8 Railway Cafe - 17 Rico Auto Complex - 24 Route 66 Diner - 17 Rollie Mortuary - 14 Thunderbird Supply Co. - 6 Valley Fence - 18 Virgie’s Restaurant & Lounge - 17 Weston Solutions -10

Friday September 18, 2020 • Gallup Sun

Scottsdale, Ariz. man on the morning of Sept. 12, she became the target of 28-year-old Robert Benjamin Nelson.

The New Mexico State Police officer was on patrol on I-40 at milepost 130 near Laguna when she stopped the truck occupied by a single male who appeared to fi re multiple rounds at her head.

A f t e r being struck, the officer was able to recover and return fire at the suspect. Nelson was able to flee the scene and continue eastbound on I-40. Despite having

multiple injuries, the officer returned to her vehicle, and pursued Nelson.

When Nelson stopped near milepost 135 on I-40 and exited his vehicle, Laguna officers arrived to help the officer, and take him into custody.

NMSP | SEE PAGE 15

PUBLIC SAFETY

Serving Gallup and the Surrounding Area for Decades!

A New Era, A New Level of Customer Safety!

Our Delivery Vehicle has been customized to provide our customers with above CDC-mandated regulations of COVID-19 safety measures!

Your delivery order is kept separate from the vehicle in a sanitized compartment, to insure that your food arrives to you quickly and safely!

Call 505 Burgers & Wings (505) 722-9311 Monday through Friday, 11 am – 7 pm Saturday 11 am - 5 pm with your order!

And

Call Mama’s Kitchen (505) 488-2262 Tuesday through Sunday, 7 am – 2 pm with your order!

Thank You Gallup, for your Business and Continued Support! Shop Local!

PUBLIC SAFETY

Gallup Sun • Friday September 18, 2020

7

Frontiers in Science

NEWS

Positive COVID cases in New Mexico public schools

Virtual Talk

The NASA Perseverance Mars Rover: Looking for signs of past life

STATE & REGION

ONE STUDENT, ONE TEACHER IN MCKINLEY COUNTY Nina Lanza, Los Alamos National Laboratory

Mars has long held a special place in Ì i Õ > >} >Ì >Ã > ÃV w Ü À ` inhabited by Martians. The real Mars is very different vÀ Ü >Ì Üi >} i` LÕÌ ÕÀ LÃiÀÛ>Ì Ã ÃÕ}}iÃÌ that life could have existed there in the distant past.

The Perseverance rover carries the tools to search for à } à v «>ÃÌ VÀ L > vi > ` Ü > à }>Ì iÀ Ã> « ià for a future return mission from Mars to Earth for the ÛiÀÞ wÀÃÌ Ì i° Join Los Alamos scientist Nina Lanza as she shares the excitement of this next mission to the Red Planet and contributions of Los Alamos scientists and engineers.

Wednesday, October 7 at 6 pm As capacity is limited to 1,000 attendees, advance online registration is required at http://bit.ly/frontiers-in-science

Staff Reports

S

ANTA FE — The Public Education Department a nnounced seven new positive cases of COVID-19 as of Sept. 17, after implementing a rapid response and verifying all pertinent information with the schools and school districts. The following new cases were reported: • One case at a public school in McKinley County. The infected individual is a teacher. The infected instructor was last in the school building on Sept. 15.

• Five cases at a public school in Roosevelt County. The infected individuals are staff members, including two teachers. They were last in the school building or a district office on September 9, 11, and 14.

Deborah Martinez, Media Relations Coordinator, New Mexico Public Education Department. Photo Credit: o-agency.com

COVID IN SCHOOLS | SEE PAGE 15

The CARES Small Business Grant Program OPEN FOR BUSINESS Staff Reports

G

A L LUP — T he City of Gallup has announced funding from the State of New

For more information: Call (505) 667-2871 or visit http://frontiers.lanl.gov

Mexico for the Small Business Continuity Grant Program in the amount of over $2 million.

CARES | SEE PAGE 15

Admission is free

Photo: NASA/ JPL-Caltech

Service is your way of life, and our way of doing business.

GALLUP 107 E. Aztec Ave., 505.722.4411 Walmart: 1650 W. Maloney Ave., 505.863.3442 1804 E. Aztec Ave., 505.722.0300

8

Friday September 18, 2020 • Gallup Sun

STATE & REGION

BREAKING THE CYCLE OF POVERTY Richard F. Kontz

Executive Director, Gallup Housing Authority WHY DO POOR PEOPLE STAY POOR? Thomas Corley spent 5 years studying poor people vs. rich people’s thinking patterns coming up with some interesting findings. Consider the following: Poor people tend to believe they are victims of circumstances. Because of this life just happens to them – the classic victim mentality. On the other hand, rich people tend to believe they are creators of, or can control their circumstances. Because of this they seek and take advantage of opportunities to create the life they want – a classic can-do mentality.

Poor people manage limited resources poorly. Rich people manage limited resources well which results in rising economic income and wealth.

READING BY THE END OF 3RD GRADE IS CRUCIAL In July 2016 a study of families in Public Housing showed that the key to “breaking the cycle of poverty” and eventually moving out of public housing was obtaining the ability to read by the end of 3rd grade. This study showed that if a child does not read after leaving 3rd grade they tend not to do well in further schooling and many do not graduate from High School or go on to College. 3rd Grade is where the transition from “learning to read” to “reading to learn” occurs. If a person can read and comprehend, they can learn anything.

STAY IN SCHOOL – GO TO SCHOOL Every girl or boy should have the right to a quality education to increase chances and opportunities in life. Education is key to reducing poverty, boosts economic growth and increases income and personal wealth. NCES reports obtaining a Bachelor’s degree allows 62% more income generation than a high school diploma. A Master’s degree allows 23% more than a Bachelor’s degree.

The Point is: Stewardship of limited resources combined with increasing education, hard work and initiative will result in more wealth and income over time.

COMMENTS ARE WELCOMED! Located at 203 Debra Drive in Gallup, NM – (505)722-4388 Housing Applications may be requested by email: GHA.Main@galluphousing.com PUBLIC SAFETY

Gallup Sun • Friday September 18, 2020

9

New Mexico strengthens accountability in nursing, long-term care facilities Staff Reports

S

ANTA FE — The state of New Mexico has created a new partnership between the State Attorney General, State Auditor and Ombudsman to protect seniors and specialized care individuals at nursing homes and long-term care facilities from poor or abusive

treatment.

The Ombudsman will also partner with the Department of Health and Adult Protective Services to review data and elevate complaints to executive departments that have the power to investigate, level civil penalties and prosecute if needed.

The creation of this partnership follows a request by

Gov. Michelle Lujan Grisham for the Ombudsman to review complaints occurring during the COVID-19 pandemic and to recommend a course of action to increase support for residents and their families. “This new process will take a hard look at the information and complaints we are seeing come from families, residents, and surveyors, with the goal of

expanding accountability and increasing the standard of care across New Mexico,� Aging and Long Term Secretary Katrina Hotrum-Lopez said. “We must work together and leverage the tools of our offices to protect vulnerable New Mexicans from anyone who would defraud or abuse them,�

New Mexico Attorney General Hector Balderas said. “Through

An update on Lost Wages Assistance Staff Reports

A

LBUQUERQUE — L o s t Wa g e s A s si s t a nce payments are coming to an end for New Mexicans.

The New Mexico Depar tment of Workforce Solutions began processing payments to unemployed workers under the federal Lost Wages Assistance program Sept. 3.

New Mexico was one of the first states to apply and be approved

for the LWA grant when it was announced four weeks ago.   Funded by the Federal E me r ge nc y M a n a ge me nt Agency, LWA provides $300 per week to supplement unemployment benefits to individuals that meet the eligibility requirements of receiving at least $100 in unemployment benefits per week and self-certifying that they are unemployed, or partially unemployed, as a direct result of the COVID-19 pandemic.

New Mexico received funding for five weeks covering July 26 through Aug. 29. An eligible claimant could receive up to $1,500 in a separate payment from their weekly benefit amount.

On Sept. 16 the New Mexico Depar tment of Workforce Solutions announced that FEMA had notified them that Sept. 5 would be the last week of the LWA benefits program due to the fund’s depletion.

The sixth and final week of

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Friday September 18, 2020 â&#x20AC;˘ Gallup Sun

LWA payments began going out the week of Sept. 14. NMDWS cannot extend LWA payments beyond that date.

NMDWS will continue to pay eligible claimants for the approved six weeks for as long as existing FEMA funds are available. Claimants will continue to receive normal weekly benefit amounts for any benefit weeks for which they are eligible.

LWA is one of six programs NMDWS is currently

New Mexico Gov. Michelle Lujan Grisham

NURSING HOME ACCOUNTABILITY | SEE PAGE 15 administering. Since March 15, the agency has paid a total of more than $2 billion in assistance to more than 200,000 New Mexicans.

Other provisions of the federal act do not expire until Dec. 26. This includes Pandemic Emergency Unemployment Compensation, which provides an extra 13 weeks of benefits to persons who exhaust regular state benefits, and Pandemic Unemployment Assistance, which provides up to 39 weeks of benefits to individuals who are self-employed or do not otherwise qualify for state benefits. Â

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STATE & REGION

NEWS

INDIAN COUNTRY

U.S. Army PFC Carlton Lane Chee laid to rest Staff Reports

Navajo Nation President Jonathan Nez and Vice President Myron Lizer present a Navajo Nation ďŹ&#x201A;ag and proclamation to the family of U. S. Army PFC Carlton Lane Chee during a graveside service at New Mexico State Veterans Cemetery in Gallup Sept. 15. Photo Credit: OPVP

strength and comfort for all of the families that have lost loved ones while stationed at Fort Hood Army Base. By all accounts, PFC Chee was a strong warrior and a good family man who wanted the best for his family and his Navajo people. We will always be thankful for his service to the Navajo Nation and the United States,â&#x20AC;? Nez said.

PFC Chee was born on Aug. 28, 1995 and grew up in Ramah. He graduated from Pine Hill High School in 2015.

Prior to his military service, he was an active member of the Ramah Navajo and Zuni Wildland Fire Program.

According to his family, PFC Chee enjoyed spending time

we offer our thoughts and prayers for his fiancĂŠ, children,

CHEE | SEE PAGE 23

G

A L LU Pâ&#x20AC;&#x201D; Nava jo Nation P resident Jonathan Nez and Vice President Myron Lizer attended the graveside services for U.S. A r my PF C Ca rlt on L a ne Chee, a member of the Navajo Nation, who passed away at the age of 25 on Sept. 2 while stationed at Fort Hood Army Base in Texas. Services were held at the National Veterans Cemetery in Gallup, Sept. 15. Nez and Lizer presented a Navajo Nation fl ag and a proclamation in honor and remembrance of PFC Chee. On Sept.

14, the two leaders also issued a proclamation calling for all fl ags on the Navajo Nation to be flown at half-staff on Sept.

15, to pay tribute to PFC Chee

PFC Carlton Lane Chee died after training at Fort Hood Army Base in Texas Sept. 2. An investigation is being conducted into his death. Photo Credit: OPVP and U.S. Army Spc. Miguel D. Yazzie, who passed away in July also while stationed at Fort Hood Army Base. â&#x20AC;&#x153;Today, we pay tribute to the life of PFC Chee and

parents, and siblings. We pray to our Creator and ask for

Shiprock court will not dismiss Navajo Nation suit to stop growing of hemp Staff Reports

S

H I PROCK , NAVA JO NATIONâ&#x20AC;&#x201D;The Shiprock District Court denied the arguments made by defendant Dineh Benally that the Navajo Nationâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s lawsuit against him and his companies should be dismissed on Sept. 10.

In a nineteen-page order, the Court reviewed, analyzed and denied each of the four arguments made by Benally.

Benally had claimed that (1) the Shiprock Cour t lacked jurisdiction to hear the case, (2) the Nation must resolve the matter through the San Juan Regional Farm Board â&#x20AC;&#x201C; on which Benally serves as President, (3) the Nation failed to join the San Juan River Farm Board â&#x20AC;&#x201C; which is an entity of the Nation, and (4) Benally denied knowledge of the existence of co-defendants Navajo Gold and Native American Agricultural Company â&#x20AC;&#x201C; despite claiming in the press and on his websites to be the founder and owner of both.

The Court rejected all four of the arguments.

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â&#x20AC;&#x153;I am very pleased with the Courtâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s ruling and look forward to a prompt hearing to stop this dangerous and illegal activity while the case proceeds,â&#x20AC;? Atty.

Gen. Doreen N. McPaul said. â&#x20AC;&#x153;I have seen fi rsthand the disastrous impacts of Benallyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s hemp operations and have met with dozens of harmed neighbors, farmers, and community members and we look forward to a prompt resolution of this matter

by the Court.â&#x20AC;?

The Navajo Nation filed this lawsuit on June 12 against Dineh Benally, Native American Agriculture Company, and Navajo Gold Company seeking to stop the illegal and unregulated growth, production and sale of hemp transporting, licensing, and selling industrial hemp within the exterior boundaries of the Navajo Nation.

As a part of the lawsuit,

the Navajo Nation also filed a motion for a temporary restraining order and a request for a preliminary injunction to stop Benallyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s hemp operation pending the resolution of the case.

The Court will now consider that motion, according to the Sept. 10 order.

Navajo Nation Council and President Jonathan Nez have stated that growing, cultivating

Hemp plants. Stock Photo and marketing industrial hemp is illegal on the Navajo Nation.

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Gallup Sun â&#x20AC;˘ Friday September 18, 2020

11

Navajo Nation implements Stage 1 Fire Restrictions RESOLVES ISSUES OVER USE OF CHAINSAWS TO GATHER FIREWOOD Staff Reports

W

INDOW ROCK, Ariz. — Navajo Nation President Jonat ha n Nez, Vice President Myron Lizer, Attorney General Doreen N. McPaul, and Navajo Area BIA Director Bartholomew Stevens signed Executive Order No. 01020 on Sept. 16, implementing Stage 1 Fire Restrictions on the Navajo Nation, which also resolves concerns over the use of chainsaws to gather firewood for the upcoming winter season.

The new Executive Order lifts some of the restrictions that were included in the previous Stage 2 Fire Restrictions, which went into effect in May during the height of fi re dangers on the Navajo Nation.

With ongoing wildfi res in the Southwest, Nez said the new restrictions still provide for the safety and prevention of wildfires, but also allow the Navajo people to gather fi rewood for the upcoming winter season.

“With devastating wildfi res

occurring in several states in the Southwest, we must proceed with extreme caution in order to prevent any wildfi res and to ensure the safety of our communities on the Navajo Nation,” Nez said. “The latest fire restrictions provide for flexibility to allow our Navajo people to use chainsaws to gather fi rewood for the winter season, which was previously restricted during certain times of the day.

“Open fi res and fi reworks are still prohibited under the latest fire restrictions. Use this opportunity to prepare your homes and families for the upcoming winter season,” he added.

“The top priority is always protecting our communities and our Navajo people. The COVID19 pandemic has led to many setbacks, but we are a resilient people and we will continue to overcome adversities,” Lizer added. “We are thankful to all of our Nation’s fire fighters and the many others who helped our Nation when we had wildfi res earlier this year.

Firewood Stock Photo “We all have to work with one another and hold each [other] accountable in order to prevent any more wildfires.

Please proceed with extreme caution and continue to pray for everyone who is impacted by the wildfires happening in several states throughout the country,” Lizer said.

The Stage 1 Fire Restr ictions proh ibit t he following: • Possession, manufacturing, sale or use of fi reworks or

other pyrotechnic devices pursuant to 17 N.N.C. § 2733 • Building, maintaining, attending, or using a fire, ca mpf ire, cha rcoa l, coa l; except campfi res and charcoal to be used in developed sites where fi re rings or grills are provided; • Using a fi rearm or incendiary devices, without a valid permit; Those engaged in the following activities must use extreme caution: • Smoking, which is recommended only in permitted areas, within an enclosed vehicle, traditional and ceremonial uses, and while stopped in an area at least six feet in diameter that is barren or cleared of all flammable materials.

1. The following activities are PERMITTED: • Persons who regularly reside within the closed area are permitted to go to and from their homes and continue ordinary activities that do not create an unreasonable fire hazard; • Propane, gas or other p e t r oleu m - f u ele d s t ove s

will be allowed for livestock branding; • Ceremonial fires, properly registered and permitted by the Navajo Nation Environmental Protection Agency (NNEPA) through a Navajo Nation EPA Burn Registration, five (5) days prior to ceremony. To obtain a Burn Registration, please contact Navajo Nation EPA Air Quality at (928) 729-4156.

Mail: NN Air Quality, PO Box 529, Fort Defiance, Ariz. 86504, FAX: (928) 729-4323 or email: kaelynnmorgan@navajo-nsn. gov; • Persons with a written permit/bonding/license that specifically authorizes the otherwise prohibited act; • Persons conducting activities in those designated areas where the activity is specifically authorized by written posted notice; • Any federal, state, or local officer or member of an organized rescue or firefighting force in the performance of an official duty; and • The implementation of a Low Complexity Prescribed Fire which meets prescriptions approved by the Agency Ad m i n i s t r a t or u nder a n approved Burn Plan.

The Executive Order states that any person or parties found guilty of violating the fi re restrictions will be fi ned up to $5,000 or be required to provide restitution. The Navajo Nation Div ision of Public Safety, Division of Natural Resources, Environmental Protection Agency, Division of Community Development, and the Bureau of Indian Affairs Wildland Fire and Aviation are hereby directed to fully enforce the Executive Order.

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Friday September 18, 2020 • Gallup Sun

INDIAN COUNTRY

NEWS

HEALTH & ENVIRONMENT

Earthweek: Diary of a Changing World

By Steve Newman

Week ending Friday, September 11, 2020 Plastic Soils N e w research finds that microplastic pollution is causing harm to the tiny creatures living in the ground.

Writing in the journal Proceedings of the Royal Society, scientists say the assault is occurring in soil-dwelling mites, larvae and other creatures that are crucial to the fertility of the land.

They play an important role in recycling carbon and nitrogen, and they brea k dow n or ga n ic material. Plots contaminated with microplastics saw a reduction of those creatures of between 15% and 62%, the scientists said.

Earthquakes At least 34 p e o pl e we r e injured when a magnitude 5.2 quake damaged homes in northeastern Iran’s Golestan province.

• Southern England was soundly shaken by a tremor that many said felt like a large explosion.

• Earth movements were also felt in northeastern Japan, central New Zealand, Vanuatu,

Haishen

3.1

+125° Death Valley, California

3.9 Paulette P tt

5.2

5.2

Rene

Julio

6.2

northern Chile and eastern New Jersey.

6.3

Arctic CO2 Surge Ca rbon emissions from wildfires raging across part of the Arctic this summer have been a third higher than those of last summer’s record conf lagrations in the region. The European Copernicus atmospheric monitoring service points to so-called zombie fires that smoldered beneath the ground through the winter months for triggering even higher emissions.

About 205 megatons of the greenhouse gas were emitted in June and July alone as Siberia was roasted by a heatwave. Many of the blazes in early summer were unreachable to firefighters and burned out of control.

Baby Boom Five baby gor illas have been born within

six weeks deep in their tropical forest habitats of Uganda, offering hope that conservation efforts are paying off. In total, seven babies have been born so far this year, compared to only three in 2019. There are about 400 mountain gorillas living in the country’s Bwindi National Park, and they are under constant threat of poaching.

“This is highly unusual; it’s an incredible blessing,” said Uganda Wildlife Authority spokesman Bashir Hangi.

in the remote highlands of the Indonesian part of New Guinea. The howls of the canines have been compared to the calls of humpback whales. There are about 200 captive descendants of the eight dogs that were gathered in the 1970s, but they are now seriously inbred.

While none have been seen in the wild for half a century, a new expedition returned to the capture site and found 15 of the wild dogs there are

5.7

genetically similar -102° Vostok, enough to their cap- Antarctica tive cousins to provide them fresh genes.

Arctic Polluters An increasing number of polluting ships are now s a i l i n g across the

Singing Dogs A rare spec ie s of d o g that can sing, or more accurately yodel, has been rediscovered in the wild

New Guinea’s Highland Wild Dog is one of the most ancient canids alive, and may be a link to modern domestic dogs. Photo Credit: PNAS

Siberian coastal stretch of t he A rct ic Ocea n because of the more open waters that have resulted from record melting sea ice. An analysis by Reuters found t h a t t r a f f ic t h rou g h the icy waters’ busiest routes along the coast of Siberia increased 58% between 2016 and 2019.

Those ships are carrying iron ore, oil, liquified natural gas and other fuels. Reuters says that the COV ID pa ndemic has not slowed the trend, with 935 voyages being documented in the fi rst half of 2020, compared with 855 in the same period last year.

Tropical Cyclones Ty phoon Haishen took a destructive pat h a cros s far southern Japan and the Korean Peninsula similar to Typhoon Maysak during the previous week.

• Tropica l stor ms Pau let te a nd Rene chu r ned t he cent r a l Atla ntic, wh ile Julio passed to the west of Mexico.

Dist. by: Andrews McMeel Syndication ©MMXX Earth Environment Service

New high-resolution stream dataset improves accuracy BETTER PROTECTS HUNDREDS OF STREAM MILES Staff Reports

T

he New Mexico Environment Department r e c e nt ly m a de significant improvements to the accuracy of mapped streams, resulting in better representation - and better protection - of hundreds of additional miles of streams in the state.

The higher-resolution

GIS layer, bu i lt u si ng Nat ion a l Hyd rog r aphy Dataset Plus High Resolution data, captures more of the actual stream si nuo sit y (cu r ve s a nd bends) and extends higher into the watershed to better represent true stream length. With the higher resolution, New Mexico’s assessed stream length increased from 7,832 miles to 8,647 miles.

HEALTH & ENVIRONMENT

“Surface water resources are more precious here than most other places in the world,” NMED Cabinet Secretary James Kenney said. “We need the very best scientific data available on our streams to make informed decisions about what is best for New Mexico’s waters.”

“A c c u r a t e d a t a o n our water resources are essential for scientifically

sound decision-making,” Project Director of the New Mexico Water Data Initiative Stacy Timmons said. “With the new dataset provided on streams in New Mexico, we can build tools that combine these data with other data, such as water quantity and uses, to help inform

STREAM MAPPING | SEE PAGE 15

Improvements made in mapping N. M. streams through the new higher resolution dataset is demonstrated here with colored lines. The blue lines are high resolution. The green lines are medium resolution. Photo Credit: New Mexico Environment Department

Gallup Sun • Friday September 18, 2020

13

Heinrich moves conservation bills forward Staff Reports

W

ASHINGTON, D.C.— I n a key hearing to consider pending legislation Sept. 16, Sen. Martin Heinrich, D-N.M., talked about how his legislation to designate portions of the Gila River as Wild and Scenic would permanently protect the river’s free-flowing segments, attract more visitors to southwestern, New Mexico and grow the outdoor recreation industry.

He i n r ic h c h a m pio ne d efforts with local outdoor businesses, advocacy groups and Sen. Tom Udall, D-N.M., to draft

BURRITOGATE | FROM PAGE 1 WHERE DID THE MONEY GO? In its tracking of mill levy funds, the IPA report stated that it had established that commingling of funds had occurred at RMCHCS. Fur thermore, the audit mentioned the salary of CEO David Conejo, (fi red June 11), saying there are references in

Southwest view of the Gila River near Silver City. Stock Photo and introduce the M. H. Dutch Salmon Greater Gila Wild and

Scenic River Act. Hearing witness Jamie

the 2014 minutes of the Board of Trustees that the CEO salary would be based on the market rate. But no documentation could be found for such an analysis.

According to the special audit, Conejo entered into a five-year agreement with the hospital to serve as sole and exclusive manager and administrator, receiv ing nea rly $572,000 in 2017, $629,000 in 2018, which was said to be

comparable to that of the CEO at the University of New Mexico Hospital, which has more than ten times the number of beds as RMCHCS, and where the salary for the CEO is approximately $676,000.

In addition Conejo’s company Health Care Integrity LLC was paid a minimum of $350,000 per year beginning in 2016, plus all expenses incurred

by HCI, including the salaries and benefits for its employees.

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Crockett, co-owner of Gila Backcountry Services, highlighted in her testimony how the legislation would bolster the local economy, create careers in the outdoor industry, and support small businesses.

Du r i ng her testimony, Crockett stated that in “the American West, we measure our wealth in water, so while Southwest New Mexico isn’t dominated by wealth in a traditional sense, we are the heirs of an incredible fortune by way of this free-flowing gem — the Gila River watershed is our inheritance and our legacy.

“We carry the honor and the burden of protecting the river

The IPA did not receive any evidence that the Board evaluated the agreed-upon compensation for Conejo and HCI to determine if the amounts paid out were fair and reasonable.

The review of the compensation set-up would result in all monthly profits being paid to HCI. HCI would receive a minimum of over $29,000, even if the hospital incurred losses.

The audit results also noted that the way Conejo’s HCI contract is written, it largely does away with internal controls by the hospital, because all control was placed in the hands of HCI, with only minimal oversight by the Board.

Since Conejo was not considered a hospital employee, it appears he was not required to sign off on a conflict of interest policy or a code of conduct, the report stated.

The repor t, which was sent to the IRS, N.M. Dept. of Taxation and Revenue and N.M. Mexico Atty. Gen. Hector Balderas on Sept. 15, shows that criteria for hiring the CEO is required to be approved by the Board of Trustees and documented in the Board minutes.

It also states that the IRS allows tax-exempt organizations, such as RMCHCS to pay executives “fair and reasonable” compensation, which is determined at least partially by researching what someone in a similar position would earn at an organization of the same size with a comparable mission.

In the auditor’s determination, the terms laid out in the CEO contract for Conejo do not appear to qualify as reasonable compensation and would be considered a violation of the

Sen. Martin Heinrich, D-N.M. and its traditional uses indefinitely through this important legislation,” she added. “So while the economic importance of drawing tourists and visitors

HEINRICH | SEE PAGE 17 private inurement regulations.

THE RISKS Based on the fi ndings concerning the compensation and contract for Conejo and HCI, Hinkle & Landers’ report said the contract may not be valid.

“The contract is so onesided in favor of HCI that it does not appear to have been properly reviewed and accepted by those with the fiduciary duty to do so, and the terms of the contract are not in the best interest of RMCHCS,” the report stated.

It also said the compensation paid may not be correct.

Further, the audit fi ndings indicate the IRS may determine the CEO was a “disqualified person,” whose compensation is unwarranted. That could mean Conejo’s paid salary and personal benefits could be considered excess and subject to an excise tax equal to 25 percent of the amount.

Board members and organization managers could also be subject to an excise tax equal to 10 percent of the excess benefit for their participation in the transactions.

If the IRS determined the v iolations were egregious enough, RMCHCS could lose its tax-exempt status.

McKinley County Manager Anthony Dimas, Jr. told the Sun, Sept. 16, that McKinley County has no interest in taking over the hospital. But it does have an interest in tightening up audit requirements for a new lease.

In particular he pointed to Article 12 section 1, where it states, “RMCHCS shall provide

BURRITOGATE | SEE PAGE 17

HEALTH & ENVIRONMENT

NMSP | FROM PAGE 6 The state police officer sustained non-life-threatening injuries and was taken to an area

COVID IN SCHOOLS | FROM PAGE 8 • One case at a public school in Bernalillo County. The infected individual is a student. The student was last in the office building on Sept. 9.

On Sept. 16, the PED

CARES | FROM PAGE 8 Through this program, the City will offer a one-time grant up to $10,000 to qualifying small businesses and non-profits to cover costs related to business interruption caused by the required closures due to the coronavirus

NURSING HOME ACCOUNTABILITY | FROM PAGE 10 this collaboration, we will continue to aggressively prosecute and hold individuals accountable for horrific abuse.”

The partnership is designed to ensure that all complaints are expediently handled by setting up a direct referral process coordinated by the Ombudsman, working closely with not just the attorney general and auditor, but local district attorneys, the Department of Health and the Office of the Superintendent of Insurance, as needed.

“At a time when we need strong oversight for our seniors

STREAM MAPPING | FROM PAGE 13 our watershed management choices.”

Previous versions of the stream dataset had unnatural breaks and unrealistic s t r e a m ch a n nel con f i g u rations. The more refined, h ig h-resolution dat a set extends the stream network seamlessly across the terrain to better connect observational data, such as water quality samples or stream flow measurements, with the stream network at a variety of scales (e.g., local, regional a nd nationa l), wh ich wa s pr e v iou s ly u n r el i a ble i n NEWS

hospital, where she was treated and released. Nelson was booked into the Cibola County Detention Center and charged with the following crimes: attempt to commit murder,

aggravated battery upon a peace officer, shooting from a motor vehicle, and resisting, evading or obstructing an officer.

The state police officer involved is also commissioned

as a Federal Task Force Officer, so the FBI is involved in the investigation and Nelson could face federal charges.

The details that led up to the traffic stop and subsequent

shooting are under investigation by the New Mexico State Police Investigations Bureau. The name of the officer involved will not be released until interviews are complete.

announced three new positive cases including a student at a McKinley County school who was last in the school building Sept. 9.

Also as of Sept. 16, a secretary at a public school district office in Roosevelt County and a teacher at a public school in

Bernalillo County were found to be infected.

All staff members and the parents and guardians of all students in the affected schools and offices have been notified of the positive cases.

The affected classrooms and school facilities will be

thoroughly disinfected, and any staff or students who came into close contact with a newly diagnosed individual will be quarantined for 14 days.

“Close contact” means being within six feet for three minutes or more. Staff who were close contacts must get tested for

COVID-19 and provide the school with test results prior to returning to in-person duties.

The PED has collected data since Aug. 17; moving forward, cumulative totals will include those data, and the total number of cases in school populations is currently 118.

pandemic.

These include but are not limited to mortgages, rent, utilities, insurance, payroll, personal protective equipment, and more. Funding is available as part of the Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security Act federal stimulus package provided to the City of Gallup

by the State of New Mexico.

City of Gallup small business owners can apply for emergency fi nancial support through the Small Business Continuity Grant Application beginning on Sept.

18. The program will remain open until all available funds are awarded.

The link to the

application is tinyurl.com/ citygrant. The application can also be found on www. gallupnm.gov and www.thegallupchamber.com.

The Gallup McKinley County Chamber of Commerce will be hosting an Online Training via Zoom about the Application

process on Sept. 22nd, at 2pm. Call (505) 722-2228 for a link or you can watch the live stream on Facebook @ GallupChamber.

This training is optional and not required to complete the application, but is suggested for anyone who might have questions about the process.

a nd ca re dependent New Mexicans, this referral process will enable residents and their families to restore their dignity and seek the justice they deserve,” New Mexico State Ombudsman Zack Quintero said. The State Ombudsman Program has recently started a new statewide initiative of wellness, dignity, and access to justice during COVID-19.

“These efforts help champion the Office of the State Auditor’s fight against fraud and abuse, increasing avenues for identifying risks related to fi nancial affairs and guardianship and conservatorship matters within our purview,” New Mexico State Auditor Brian Colón said. “New Mexicans

deserve financial transparency and protection and we look forward to working with the Attorney General and Ombudsman to better serve one of our most vulnerable

populations.”

The New Mexico Long-Term Care Ombudsman Program provides advocacy and resident-centered protection of the rights of New Mexicans living

in long-term care facilities.

To that end, the Ombudsman Program provides individual and systemic advocacy on behalf of long-term care residents.

many watersheds across the country, but particularly so in the semi-arid watersheds of New Mexico.

T he h i g her- r e s olut ion dataset improves modeling and analysis, such as pollutant load reductions, f lood risk assessments, toxic spill impacts, or invasive species threats, thus supporting better planning and management of our state’s precious water resources.

The Environment Depa r t ment ’s m i s sion i s to protect and restore the environment and to foster a healthy and prosperous New Mexico for present and future generations.

Gallup Sun • Friday September 18, 2020

15

OPINIONS

Drop boxes: essential for safe voting

By Ahtza Dawn Chavez Executive Director of NM Native Vote member of the Diné Nation, born for Kewa Pueblo

I

f you told me a global health crisis fueled by ill-advised political leadership would hold American citizens hostage and infringe on basic voting rights a year ago, I wouldn’t have believed you.

Sadly, that is the situation we find ourselves in today.

While that is a truth we Americans must accept, what we don’t have to accept is citizen inaction. We can make the best of a bad situation and secure the one aspect that we actually have control over: our vote.

The current administration is threatening to remove letter collection boxes, impose budget cuts to the U.S. Postal Service, and derail vote-in mailing systems as we approach t he Nove m b e r ele c t io n .

Unfortunately for them, we have the power to take a stand and protect our rights—and we know the tools that will get us there.

With the USPS still under

threat and COVID-19 continuing to claim lives, it’s no secret that voting options are limited.

Luckily, the simple solution of ballot drop boxes presents a safe, easy and fair solution for voters all across New Mexico.

Drop boxes are monitored: They’re completely locked and surveilled either by camera or security guard.

Drop boxes are mobile: They’re easily accessible and able to reach even the most remote voters.

Drop boxes are safe: They’re composed of quarter inch steel, weighing between 250 and 750 pounds, and cemented to the ground, similar to ATMs. Lastly, ballots cast via drop box are collected directly by election officials, cutting out the mail system in the middle. Whether you’re concerned about the threat of COVID-19, the possibility of your ballot getting lost in the mail, or any number of other factors at play this election, drop boxes provide an outstanding solution for New Mexico voters.

While you’ll hear me sing the praises of drop boxes for all Americans, drop boxes are of

USPS drop box. Stock Photo

16

Friday September 18, 2020 • Gallup Sun

even greater importance to the people living on New Mexican reservations and tribal lands.

According to the New Mexico Department of Health, Native Americans represent a staggering 31 percent of the state’s coronavirus cases, despite making up just 10 percent of the state’s total population. Even before the attack on the U.S. mail system, tribal governments had closed their lands to non-residents to safeguard their communities, and in some areas this interrupted scheduled mail service.

While it’s critical we get the crisis of this pandemic under control, that can’t come at the cost of our right to be heard at the ballot box.

As the executive director of NM Native Vote, I know firsthand that tribal communities are worried about disenfranchisement and how they can safely get out the vote. None of the options available—vote-bymail, early voting or even in-person options on election day—are free of obstacles or risks, especially for voters in remote areas where the virus has still managed to spread rapidly.

Heather Ferguson, executive director of Common Cause NM, also voiced fears for Native communities on reservations, stating, “this is a huge group of people that we have historically disenfranchised and we’re doing it again.” Between the toll COVID-19 has taken on tribal people, the almost total lockdown we’ve endured since virus clusters continued to surface, and the remote nature of reservations, New Mexicans living there aren’t just in danger of getting sick—they’re in danger of losing their vote.

Through all of the injustices and inequities faced by New Mexico’s Native communities, it’s hard to say that something so simple as drop boxes would be an all-encompassing solution.

Still, it’s something so simple as drop boxes that could alleviate voter fears and provide safe, secure and easy access to eligible tribal voters.

If you’re reading this thinking, if drop boxes make access to voting easier for everyone, why not install them everywhere?

Well, the current administration has recently filed lawsuits barring the use of drop boxes in

NM Native Vote emblem. Image Credit: NM Native Vote some areas, basing their suits on disproved security concerns.

Back in reality, experts have proven time and time again that drop boxes don’t come with any sort of security holes or political benefit for one party or another, they simply help eligible voters return their ballots.

The installation of drop boxes on and near reservation communities would protect not just peoples’ lives, but also their right to vote in our democracy.

For a community that has been

hit disproportionately hard by COVID-19 and disenfranchised throughout American history, installing accessible drop boxes is a small but crucial step election officials can take to ensure the franchise remains intact today. Regardless of party affiliation, I urge county clerks to do what is right. Don’t make people choose between protecting their lives or protecting their right to vote; install drop boxes and ensure that every American citizen is entitled to both.

OPINIONS

BURRITOGATE | FROM PAGE 14 [the] County with an annual Balance Sheet, personal and real property inventories, Profit and Loss Statement, Accounts Receivable a nd Accou nts Payable records and any other financial records bearing on the operation of the hospital.â&#x20AC;? Dimas highlighted the following, â&#x20AC;&#x153;Said financial information shall be in sufficient detail to allow County to appropriately analyze the fiscal status and management practices of the Hospital.â&#x20AC;?

HOSPITAL RESPONSE RMCHCS released a statement Sept. 15 saying it has begun working to insure proper internal controls are in place to restore its fi nancial integrity. â&#x20AC;&#x153;RMCHCS is a critically important partner to its patients and community â&#x20AC;&#x201C; perhaps more now than ever before,â&#x20AC;? interim CEO Don Smithburg said. The release also included information regarding staff changes, stating that RMCHCS has appointed a new Chief Nursing Officer, Chief Human Resources Officer and Director of WellSpring Recovery Center.

The hospital says it is also in the process of engaging a

specialized CPA firm to conduct internal audit reviews of various hospital operations.

McKinley County District III Commissioner Bill Lee was pleased to learn about the hospitalâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s response to the report. â&#x20AC;&#x153;I am happy to see that the hospital has taken the audit to heart and has begun to work to correct a lot of the problems that were there,â&#x20AC;? Lee told the Sun, Sept. 16. â&#x20AC;&#x153;They started with dismissing the CEO. â&#x20AC;&#x153;Many of the problems stemmed from the CEO, but it also highlighted the lack of attention to detail that the board has to own up to as well,â&#x20AC;? he concluded.

CONEJOâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;S ATTORNEY REFUTES REPORT CLAIMS State Auditor Brian ColĂłn has misrepresented the true financial picture of Conejoâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s tenure as CEO at RMCHCS, according to a statement released by Luis Robles, attorney for the former hospital

NEWS

fundraiser.

Robles indicated he was ready to have any outside organization review the audit.

Despite those objections, ColĂłn trusts the report. â&#x20AC;&#x153;Iâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;m confident in the integrity of Hinkle & Landers and the quality of their past work.

I have no reason to think their report isnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t reliable. And as such, I referred it to the proper authorities,â&#x20AC;? he told The Gallup Sun Sept. 16.

Hinkle & Landers CPA Farley Vener also spoke to the challenges Robles made against the report. â&#x20AC;&#x153;We think the report speaks for itself and we do have supporting documentation,â&#x20AC;? Venner told the Sun. â&#x20AC;&#x153;We stand by the report.â&#x20AC;?

THE LONG AND WINDING ROAD OF THE SPECIAL AUDIT In the late summer and early fall of 2019 there were discussions about terms for the audit, even whether the audit would

be called a special audit or a forensic audit. There were arguments about what would be included and where it would be reviewed.

The audit was meant to track the hospitalâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s spending of mill levy funds, a property tax based on the assessed value of a property.

At the time, Conejo expressed confidence that copies of the fi nancial documents would satisfy any concerns.

Those documents began arriving at the state auditorâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s office after a meeting with Conejo, the CFO, COO, comptroller and fi nancial administration May 12, 2020. Robles states the documents were delivered previously, but not accessed.

As for the IRS, taxation and revenue departments and the state attorney generalâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s office, â&#x20AC;&#x153;Theyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ll do their own investigation,â&#x20AC;? ColĂłn said. â&#x20AC;&#x153;They all have their individual process and procedure.â&#x20AC;?

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HEINRICH | FROM PAGE 14 from across the United States is a significant benefit of this bill, protecting our public lands and the intrinsic value of our way of life underscores why Grant County and surrounding communities are a destination for retirees and those seeking a better quality of life.â&#x20AC;?

Heinrich noted how his legislation to establish Cerro de la Olla Wilderness within the Rio Grande del Norte National Monument in northern New Mexico, would preserve traditional uses and provide sanctuary to a wide range of wildlife species, while maintaining current access routes. â&#x20AC;&#x153;Cerro de la Olla, with a peak of nearly 10,000 feet, is the home of some of the best elk habitat in northern New Mexico,â&#x20AC;?

Heinrich said. â&#x20AC;&#x153;This legislation is supported by a wide range of community members, as well as the Taos County Commission and Taos Pueblo. Protecting this peak and its spectacular views has long been a priority for the Taos community and Iâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;m glad this bill is moving forward today.â&#x20AC;?

head. â&#x20AC;&#x153;The whole nature of the report is shoddy and paints a completely inaccurate description of my clientsâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; financial transactions,â&#x20AC;? Robles stated.

Robles, who is representing Conejo in a six-count lawsuit against RMCHCS, called the audit a blatant political attack by the state auditor. â&#x20AC;&#x153;We were never afforded an opportunity to review the audit by McKinley County, despite a request under the Freedom of Information Act.â&#x20AC;?

Robles continued his statement introducing different figures. â&#x20AC;&#x153;Conejoâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s salary was in fact $280,000, not the alleged amount of $350,000. Conejoâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s salary was actually $70,000 less than the previous CEO,â&#x20AC;? Robles stated.

He went on to say that the report did not take into consideration that his client donated $50,000 to the hospital each year for its annual charity

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17

COMMUNITY

The show must go on GALLUP FILM FESTIVAL GOES VIRTUAL

By Cody Begaye Sun Correspondent

L

ights! Camera! Action!

While the COVID19 pandemic has disrupted the production and screening of major movies throughout the world, it has not stopped fi lmmakers from presenting their finished works to audiences through online venues.

Gallup Film Festival, one of the signature annual events of downtown Gallup, is following in those steps. Set to unfold Sept. 24-26, the festival will allow viewers to enjoy a selection of films spanning 12 categories from their own homes.

The categories include narrative short, narrative feature, student film, New Mexico film, web series/new media, and documentary feature. G a l lu p F i l m Fe s t i v a l Director Knifewing Segura said the festival almost did not happen this year due to the pandemic and subsequent financial strains on the city. â&#x20AC;&#x153;But then, some other festivals I worked with out in California convinced me this would be a good way to get back into [showing films],â&#x20AC;? Segura said Sept. 16. â&#x20AC;&#x153;Even though we decided to do it online and we donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t have some of the resources we had in previous years, we still did get some very

Nectar, one of the ďŹ lms beign shown at the 2020 Gallup Film Festival. Photo Credit: Courtesy

At a meet and greet following a 2018 festival screening, Gallup Film Festival director Knifewing Segura, left, stands with actor Wes Studi. Photo Credit: Courtesy

interesting films from all over, even abroad.â&#x20AC;?

GETTING THINGS INTO PLACE Despite technical hurdles that come with moving the festival online, Segura called the move a blessing in disguise. â&#x20AC;&#x153;We have actors who are going to be involved this year.

And some of the entertainment is still going to do its thing,â&#x20AC;? he said.

One entertainment group Segura wanted to highlight was the Nashville comedy duo of Bruce Williams and Terry Ree, also known just as Williams and Ree or The Indian and the White Guy.

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A poster of Rez Dogs, one of the ďŹ lms showing at this yearâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Gallup Film Festival.

Photo Credit: Courtesy

Friday September 18, 2020 â&#x20AC;˘ Gallup Sun

The New Abolitionists will be shown at the Gallup Film Festival 2020. Photo Credit: Courtesy â&#x20AC;&#x153;Once they heard the festival was happening, they wanted in on it,â&#x20AC;? Segura said.

As of Sept. 16, the screening schedule has not been finalized.

Segura said it is important to remember the festival was not going to happen at one point. â&#x20AC;&#x153;The advertisements, everything, itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s all different this year,â&#x20AC;? he said. â&#x20AC;&#x153;But itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s an interesting, kind of exciting way of life now.

I look forward to the engineering [and technology] side of it all.â&#x20AC;?

Segura said the tech people he is working with from Los Angeles are excited the festival is moving online and are doing everything to make sure the festival goes off well.

S E L E C T I O N HIGHLIGHTS Since the fate of the festival

was unknown for some time, Segura said there were not as many entries in 2020 as in previous years. â&#x20AC;&#x153;But, there was still a lot of consideration taken this year for fi lm selections,â&#x20AC;? he said. â&#x20AC;&#x153;The filmmakers have been reaching out to their customers and asking them to go on the festival website and vote for the audience awards.â&#x20AC;?

The full list of films can be viewed on the fi lm festival website. Segura wanted to spotlight one of the entries for documentary feature, The New Abolitionists, which he said is an eye-opener about sex trafficking in Vietnam. â&#x20AC;&#x153;That film kept my attention the whole time and I was just shocked to hear about those stories,â&#x20AC;? he said. â&#x20AC;&#x153;You hear about how girls are sold into Russian mafias as prostitutes. I had never heard of that before.â&#x20AC;?

The single entry for animation, Silly Billy Dine, is also another one people should watch, Segura said. â&#x20AC;&#x153;After I watched it, I thought these guys have potential, I look forward to them, seeing them work,â&#x20AC;? he said. â&#x20AC;&#x153;With the festival moving online, they are given that opportunity. This is a new way of [film] distribution.â&#x20AC;?

In all, there are 24 selections listed on the festivalâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s website.

A STEPPING STONE

Segura thinks the festival could be the beginning of a bigger opportunity for Native filmmakers as they get to meet the directors of the festival submissions and attend workshops and learn from them as well.

Plans for more venues and filmmaking resources in Gallup, including a drive-in movie theater, could hinge on the success of the festival, he added. â&#x20AC;&#x153;Iâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;m thinking if the plans all pan out, weâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;re going to have a recording studio and film school in Gallup,â&#x20AC;? Segura said. â&#x20AC;&#x153;And once we have these new resources, there will be new opportunities for us. One being we could have [part of] a Marvel movie made here.â&#x20AC;?

In addition, Red Rock State Park has garnered attention for fi lm crews, Segura continued. He also recalled the recent filming of an episode of the TV series Ghost Adventures in Gallup.

The continued interest in Gallup as a filming site depends not only on the festival, but perhaps also the city, but Segura said it is important to know these endeavors are a team effort. â&#x20AC;&#x153;I look forward to all of these challenges. This is just the beginning for us,â&#x20AC;? he said.

For a full list of film submissions, ticketing information, and to volunteer, visit

https://gallupfilmfestival. com/.

COMMUNITY

‘The Nest’ details the unraveling of a Yuppie family

By Glenn Kay For the Sun

RATING:  OUT OF  RUNNING TIME: 107 MINUTES This film will be released in select theaters Sept. 18 and will be available to rent at home on most platforms Nov. 17.

Many refer to the 1980s as a decade of greed. The term Yuppie was coined as a signifier of a person (often a businessman) living a life of undeserved excess. Despite the derogatory terminology, many envied the wealth and power of the upper classes. Set during this era, the new drama The Nest follows one such family seemingly living the good life. However, the story soon introduces strife within the clan and reveals the truth behind their fortune and the games being played so they can keep their heads above water.

This isn’t an enjoyable tale to watch, but it is a well-performed feature that displays one household’s inevitable downward spiral.

Rory (Jude Law) is a fasttalking New York-based commodities broker living in the countryside. One day, he tells his wife Allison (Carrie Coon) that he has been given an incredible employment opportunity at his old London-based firm, insisting that they pack up and leave the U.S. for England.

She initially resists leaving, but ultimately agrees to relocating.

The entire family, including children Benjamin (Charlie Shotwell) and Samantha (Oona Roche) quickly find themselves living at an impressive but isolated manor in Surrey.

Rory spends lavishly, purchasing a horse and building a stable to help his wife with her career. However, their spacious new abode quickly begins having a negative effect on the family. The kids don’t like the house. The money begins to run dry and Allison starts resenting her husband for taking them far away.

Viewers should be aware that this movie does not feature the most likable of protagonists. While Rory is charming and upbeat on the surface, deep down Rory is terrible. He twists COMMUNITY

Rory (Jude Law) and his wife Allison (Carrie Coon) surround themselves with high-rollers and try to keep up financially in “The Nest.” Photo Credit: IFC Films the arm of his family to join him abroad and puts on airs at work while constantly trying to broker deals that will keep him solvent for another few months.

Naturally, his gift of gab only gets him so far and the family fi nds themselves sinking further and further into the mire.

Although Allison is shown in a more sympathetic light, she isn’t a whole lot better, ultimately taking part in the charade (then complaining about it afterwards) and focusing most of her personal attention on her horse instead of her kids.

It’s a slow and ugly descent, but it does provide a lot for the actors to feast on. As Rory’s deals go south and his façade breaks down, it allows co-star Law to plumb the depths of his character’s f laws. The same goes for Carrie Coon as Allison becomes increasingly snarky, eventually leading to public arguments including a wince-inducing exchange at a business dinner. By this point in the story, the couple can barely stand to be in the same room with one another.

Thankfully, the movie does give viewers the opportunity to get inside their heads and understand the reasons for living beyond their means. Rory does appear to be angry and ashamed by his modest background. And since everyone else seems to be keeping up false appearances, Rory sees no reason why he shouldn’t do the same and enjoy great fortune

and wealth.

So, should you ever go house hunting, remember that purchasing a home and living a lifestyle that you can’t afford may cause your entire world to crumble. It’s something of an

obvious moral, but it certainly is true for many who spent their way through the overly extravagant ‘80s. In the end, The Nest may not be an upbeat effort and it doesn’t necessarily tell you anything you don’t already

know about its selfish characters, but the solid, convincing portrayals of some unpleasant people make this an intriguing drama.

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Gallup Sun • Friday September 18, 2020

19

‘H is for happiness’ charms, endears viewers

By Glenn Kay For the Sun

RATING:  OUT OF  RUNNING TIME: 98 MINUTES Samuel Goldwyn Films will release this title in the U.S. on most VOD/digital platforms.

Making a family movie may seem like a simple task, but these fi lms are far more difficult to create than one might initially expect. Admittedly, most are sweet-natured tales with genial, sometimes slapstick humor, a central message about believing in oneself or encouragement to set out and make the world a better place, along with a neatly tied-up happy ending. When done well, this approach is perfectly acceptable and can provide exceptional entertainment. Still, sometimes the best efforts strive to do even more, or at the very least, approach and depict the world around us as a little more complicated.

H is for Happiness is an Australian feature based on a successful young adult novel

by Barry Jonsberg. It follows plucky, optimistic 12-year-old Candace Phee (Daisy Axon), a studious girl who is an outcast because of her direct and blunt manner (likely due to being on the autism spectrum). When teacher Miss Bamford (Miriam Margolyes) assigns a project

Candace Phee (Daisy Axon) and Douglas Benson from “Another Dimension” (Wesley Patten), are two children outside the mainstream experiencing the world together in the Australian coming-of-age movie “H is for happiness.” Photo Credit: Samuel Goldwyn Films involving using a letter of the alphabet to tell something to the audience about the world and their lives, Candace is excited. She decides to use the letter “H” to bring happiness to her family.

This includes her depressed parents Claire (Emma Booth) and Jim (Richard Roxburgh), who haven’t gotten over the death of Candace’s infant sister. The lead also aims to reunite her father with his estranged brother, whom she

refers to as “Rich Uncle Brian” (Joel Jackson). Alas, Candace fi nds the task far harder than anticipated.

Truthfully, this reviewer will admit to having a mixed reaction toward the movie during its opening act. The story is told through Candace’s eyes and it is extremely quirky.

In fact, its peculiar, low-key sense of humor does take some getting used to. Some of her schemes to help her family are amusing (like faking falling

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into the water and drowning), while other gags aren’t quite as entertaining.

More strangeness occurs with the introduction of a new student, the memorably named Douglas Benson from Another Dimension (Wesley Patten). He’s one more oddball in a feature full of them, telling the young girl about his arrival from another universe and asking for her help in hurtling himself from a tree in order to return to his original world.

But even though not all of the early material raises a laugh, the movie does slowly begin to win over viewers.

Candace’s unusual bluntness does earn a few chuckles and another eccentricity, a mystical miniature horse that appears to the kids and stares at them as they play, is a funny and surreal story addition. As the tale progresses and the stakes are raised as characters are forced to face up to their issues, the movie really starts fi ring on all cylinders.

It’s certainly a difficult task to balance humor and tragedy, but the entire cast is very engaging.

In fact, the fi lm may end up working even more effectively as a drama than it does as a comedy.

Mo s t c h i ld r e n’s f i l m s present the lead kid as the

smartest person in the room.

While Candace’s intentions are always altruistic and some of her actions do help mend some fences, the protagonist does learn over the course of the story that she can’t simply go out, solve the personal issues of those around her and deliver happiness. In fact, the protagonist slowly comes to the bittersweet conclusion that happiness is largely fleeting.

It’s a bold approach for a kid’s fi lm and one you wouldn’t see in a Hollywood equivalent.

While everything isn’t tied up cleanly, the fi lm certainly doesn’t end on a dour note.

Another plus is the exceptional cinematography and production design. This is a colorful movie with gorgeous locations that is impressive to behold from beginning to end. H is for Happiness doesn’t always deliver pure joy, but that isn’t its real intention.

Instead, this is an honest coming-of-age fl ick featuring likable if peculiar characters.

It aptly depicts the world as a complex, complicated yet exhilarating place fi lled with joy, sadness and possibility.

For those looking for something that’s a little out of the ordinary, this is a charming and endearing pick.

V ISIT: W W W. CINEMASTANCE.COM COMMUNITY

Blu-ray/DVD Roundup for September 18, 2020

By Glenn Kay For the Sun

W

elcome back to yet another round of highlights arrivi ng on Blu-ray and DVD. There are some very quirky and well-received independent efforts hitting shelves, as well as a massive number of classic fl icks getting high defi nition upgrades.

So, since you likely can’t or shouldn’t head out to the movies this week, be sure to give one of these titles a try!

BIG NEW RELEASES BECKY: A teenage girl decides to repair her relationship with her father by t a k i ng a trip with him to a remote l a ke hou s e.

If you’ve ever seen a horror movie before, you’l l k now t hat not h i ng good can come from a plan like that. Without warning, a group of convicts looking for a place to hide suddenly burst into the pair’s abode and take them hostage. Despite the familiar plot, this independent horror picture received decent marks from critics.

Those who disliked the feature said that, aside from some eccentric casting, the movie didn’t offer any chills or surprises. However, the majority complimented this violent picture, saying the performers were good and expressing some enjoyment in how the young lead takes down the nasty villains. It features Lulu Wilson, Kevin James, Joel McHale, Amanda Brugel and Robert Maillet.

CREEM: A MERICA’S ONLY ROCK ‘N’ ROL L MAGAZINE: It has been just over 50 years since the music magaz i ne C r e e m made its pr int debut.

This monthly publ icat ion based out of Detroit quickly became the stuff of legend and has been noted for influencing an entire generation of music enthusiasts (some claim it as the fi rst COMMUNITY

publication to coin the term “punk rock”). Viewers of the documentary follow the magazine’s beginnings and rise to prominence, as well as its collapse after the passing of both the publisher and its most noted writer, Lester Bangs.

Musicians from the era as well as those who were influenced

by Creem make appearances.

Reaction was very positive towards the doc. They called it an enlightening piece that perfectly captured the crazy and chaotic story of an iconic m a ga z i ne. A l ice Cooper, Cameron Crowe, Joan Jett, Paul Stanley, Gene Simmons, Michael Stipe a nd others share their thoughts on the magazine. This title is arriving exclusively on DVD. DRIVEWAYS: This indep e nde nt d r a m a a c t u a l ly received a DVD release several months back, bu t i s now reappea r i ng on Blu-ray a nd DVD a s a Special Edition. The plot follows an 8-year-old boy who i s taken by his mother to help clean out his deceased aunt’s home over the summer.

He has difficulty making pals in his new and unfamiliar surroundings. However, that all changes after he encounters his aunt’s grouchy octogenarian neighbor.

T he t wo s t r i ke up a n unlikely friendship as time passes. The press raved about this little feature. In fact, as of right now it‘s difficult to fi nd anyone who didn’t enjoy it.

Their write-ups all describe it as a low-key, sweet and powerful fi lm that features remarkable performances from the entire ca st. Accord ing to them, the movie helps to show viewers the importance of staying connected with each other. It stars Hong Chau, Lucas Jaye, Brian Dennehy, Christine Ebersole and Jerry Adler.

DTF: Dating is complicated in the modern world.

In this documentary, a fi lmmaker sets out and follows his best friend, a widower airline pilot, who is attempting to make new connections via the worldwide passport dating

app, Tinder. For 18 months, we see a well-intentioned man’s quest for love turn into a controversial and cautionary tale of one man’s addictive and outlandish behavior in a bubble of vice (eventually, his strange activities even put his job at risk). There aren’t a lot of reviews available for the fi lm yet, but the ones that have popped up have been positive.

Some have described the film as a little unfocused and noted that the subject’s behavior will defi nitely turn some viewers off. Still, most have called it a raw and disturbing tale displaying the uncomfortable depths even a normal person can sink to using the app.

JESUS SHOWS YOU T H E WA Y T O T H E HIGHWAY: This independent, European, Englishlanguage science-fiction/ fantasy/comedy is set in the future and involves a CI A agent readying to retire from his dangerous job. However, when a cyber virus attacks the organization, he’s forced to take on one last assignment and square off against the threat i n a biza r re, pop - cu lt u re infused cyberspace environment. It soon becomes clear that this virus could end the world if it isn’t stopped, and that getting out of the computer realm might be more difficult than initially thought.

Response towards this eccentric effort was very positive.

One or two became frustrated by the movie’s anyt h i ng-goes approa ch to storytelling, but the remainder called it enjoyably crazy a nd commented that they had no idea where this outrageous fl ick would take them next. Daniel Tadesse, Agustín Mateo and Guillermo Llansó headline the picture.

WEATHERING WITH YO U: T h o s e w h o e nj oy Japanese animated fi lms may be interested in this effort.

It follows a young man who leaves his village and heads to Tokyo in the hopes of fi nding a purpose in life. Unfortunately, he fi nds the city too expensive and takes shelter from

t he stor my weat her i n isolation.

T h i ngs pick up a fter the p r o t a go n i s t finds a position w r iting for a myster ious occult magazine and later meets a charming young lady who appea rs able to make the rainy skies clear up.

Critics gave this feature high marks. A small cluster said that while nicely animated, the story didn’t reel them in the way they hoped that it would. Still, the vast majority stated that it was a sensitive and effective coming-of-age movie that also dealt effectively with ecological issues and problems like homelessness. The release includes a Japanese language track with subtitles and an English dub.

BL A ST S F ROM T H E PAST! Arrow Video is releasing a Special Edition Blu-ray of Ivans xtc. (2000). This is a satire of the Hollywood fi lm i ndu s t r y s t a r r i n g Da n ny Hu ston a nd Peter Wel ler that is loosely based on Leo Tolstoy’s 1886 novella T he Death of Ivan Ilyich. The technica l specs include a Q&A with director Bernard Rose (Candyman, Immortal Beloved, Samurai Marathon), actress/producer/co-writer Lisa Enos, and the main cast Danny Huston, Peter Weller and Adam Krentzman from a 2018 screening in Hollywood.

L ionsgate is del iveri n g a Blu r ay of t he early David Cronenberg (The Brood, Videodrome, The Dead Zon e, T h e F l y, e Xi s tenZ, A History of Violence) chiller k now n a s Shive rs (1975). The plot involves parasites invading an apartment complex that cause strange and disturbing behaviors on the part of the tenants. Once again, the image has been dramatically cleaned up and you’ll find all the bonuses from previous DVD releases, alongside a new commentary

featuring Cronenberg and the producer. You’ll also get individual inter views with the director, the producer, cast members and the make-up team.

Fans of Cronenberg should be thrilled by the Blu-ray. Now please, would someone get around to releasing a Blu-ray the years-ahead-of-its-time 1999 feature, eXistenZ? Wa r n e r B r o t h e r s a n d War ner A rchive has some new Blu-rays as well. They are releasing a 4K edition of the Mar tin Scorsese mobster masterpiece, Goodfellas (1990). Additionally, they have licensed another Steelbook edition of one of their properties to Best Buy in the form of A Nightmare on Elm Street (1984). If you like the tin can packaging, you can pick up the horror classic online or at the store.

Finally, Warner’s madeto-order outlet is presenting the John Wayne WWII fl ick, Flying Leathernecks (1951) on Blu-ray. And they are making a great 4-Film Collection: Film Noir set available as well. You’ll get Gun Crazy (1950), Murder, My Sweet (1944), Out of the Past (1947) and T he Set-Up (1949) all in one impressive package.

Those interested in ordering these discs should go to the Warner Archive website.

YOU KNOW, FOR KIDS! If you’re looking to entertain the kids this week, here are your best choices.

Ultraman Ginga / Ginga S + Ultra Fight Victory - Series & Movie The Wiggles – Fun and Games ON THE TUBE! A nd here are all of the TV-themed releases coming your way.

A House Divided: Season 2 In Search Of: Season 1 (History Channel) In Search Of: Season 2 (History Channel) Killing Eve: Season 3 Mom: Season 7 (Warner Archive) Outlander: Season 5 T h e Outpost: Sea son 2 (DVD only) Red Dwarf: The Promised Land (Season 13) Ultraman Ginga / Ginga S + Ultra Fight Victory - Series & Movie V ISI T: W W W. CINEMASTANCE.COM

Gallup Sun • Friday September 18, 2020

21

CLASSIFIEDS

CLASSIFIEDS

WEEKLY RATES FIRST 25 WORDS: FREE! (4 consecutive weeks max.)

GALLUP SUN ARCHIVES Need a past issue? $2.00 per copy. Note issue date and send check or M.O. to: Gallup Sun, PO Box 1212, Gallup, NM 87305. Subject to availability.

FOR RENT Mobile Home Black Diamond Mobile Park- 2 bedroom, 2 bath $650.00 per month + $500.00 deposit + Water service deposit $150.00. Newly renovated, new paint, carpets. Call Bill Nations (9AM to 6PM) 7269288 *** Mobile Home Black Diamond Mobile Park - 2 bedroom, 1 bath $625.00 per month + $500.00 deposit + Water service deposit $150.00 New paint, carpets & appliances. Call Bill Nations (9AM to 6PM) 726-9288 HELP WANTED Gallup Sun seeks a local, experienced newspaper reporter. Email: gallupsun@ gmail.com LEGAL/PUBLIC NOTICES STATE OF NEW MEXICO COUNTY OF MCKINLEY ELEVENTH JUDICIAL DISTRICT COURT RICARDO PALACIOS. Plaintiff,

R.

PRIETO-

vs.

No. D-1113-CV-2020-00400 HERMAN R. CANTU and SAUL CANTU, and UNKNOWN CLAIMANTS OF INTEREST IN THE PREMISES ADVERSE TO THE PLAINTIFF’S, Defendants.

NOTICE OF PENDENCY OF SUIT THE STATE OF NEW MEXICO TO: HERMAN R. CANTU and SAUL CANTU and UNKNOWN CLAIMANTS OF INTEREST IN THE

PREMISES ADVERSE PLAINTIFF

TO

THE

Property Tax Code with respect to the 2020-tax year only:

You or your attorney are hereby directed to file a pleading or motion in response to the Complaint to Quiet Title on file herein on or before 30 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, (505-7224463). 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.

1)The deadline for the McKinley County Assessor to resolve protests from September 28, 2020 to no later than November 27, 2020.

The general object of said action is a Complain of Quiet Title.

WITNESS the District Judge of the Eleventh Judicial District Court of the State of New Mexico, and the seal of Court this ____ day of September, 2020.

THOMAS JOBE has been appointed Personal Representative of the Estate of MARLENE COX, deceased.

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

Clerk of District Court Publish: The Gallup Sun September 11, 2020 September 18, 2020 September 25, 2020 *** P.T.D. ORDER NO. 20-112 September 10, 2020 ORDER EXTENDING CERTAIN DEADLINES MCKINLEY COUNTY, NEW MEXICO Pursuant to my authority under Section 7-38-85 NMSA 1978, I hereby extend the following deadline found in Section 7-38-27C of the

22 Friday September 18, 2020 • Gallup Sun

26-50 WORDS: $10 51-75: WORDS: $20 76-100 WORDS: $30 $10 FOR EACH ADD’L 25 WORDS

EXTRAS – $5 PER WEEK, PER ITEM: TEXT BOX, HIGHLIGHT, ALL CAPS, BOLD, AND/OR PIC/LOGO Free classifi ed: Limit one free ad per customer only. Second ad starts at $10, per 25 words.

EMAIL: GALLUPSUNLEGALS@GMAIL.COM DUE: TUESDAYS 5 PM

Santiago Chavez, Director Property Tax Division

Attorneys for Personal Representative 104 East Aztec Avenue Gallup, New Mexico 87301 (505) 722-4463

Publish: The Gallup Sun September 18, 2020 September 25, 2020 October 2, 2020

Publish: The Gallup Sun September 18, 2020 September 25, 2020 October 2, 2020

Done this 10th September 2020.

day

of

***

*** ELEVENTH JUDICIAL DISTRICT COURT COUNTY OF MCKINLEY STATE OF NEW MEXICO In the Matter of Estate of MARLENE COX, Deceased.

LEGAL NOTICE INVITATION TO BID Public Notice is hereby provided that the GallupMcKinley County Schools is accepting competitive sealed bids for:

No. D-1113-PB-2020-00029 NOTICE TO CREDITORS

Dated: September 10, 2020 THOMAS JOBE Personal Representative MASON P.A.

&

ISAACSON,

By James J. Mason

SITE IMPROVEMENTS AT ANGELO DIPAOLO MEMORIAL STADIUM RFP-2021-08MA Commodity 90930

A NON-MANDATORY PreBid Conference will be held at the jobsite on September 28, 2020 at 10:00 AM. Sealed proposals for such will be received until 1:30 P.M. (LOCAL TIME) on October 9, 2020. FAX and HARDCOPY PROPOSALS will NOT be accepted. Bidders 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 15th September 2020

Day

of

Code(s):

As more particularly set out in the BID 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

By: /S/Charles Long, President Board of Education Gallup-McKinley County School District No. 1 BID ISSUE DATE: September 15, 2020 PUBLICATION DATES: September 18 & 25, 2020 (Gallup Sun)

CLASSIFIEDS Read online at gallupsun.com CLASSIFIEDS

COMMUNITY CALENDAR SEPTEMBER 18 – SEPTEMBER 24, 2020 20 FRIDAY, September 18

SENSORY SEPTEMBER

11 am. Join us on Facebook and Youtube @ galluplibrary for fun sensory activities you can do at home for everything from learning the alphabet to improving motor skills.

Today’s activity is I Spy. Videos are posted Wednesdays and Fridays at 11 am.

PRE-REGISTER FOR RMCHCS COLLEGE CLINIC FLU VACCINATION CLINIC

3 pm-5 pm Call (505) 8631860 for Sept. 19 flu vaccination clinic.

KIDS’ CLASS

2 pm-4 pm @Healing Hands Studio (194 E. Hwy. 66) To sign up call (505) 488-2051 or contact klunasee@rmchcs.org. Sessions are $15 plus supplies.

SATURDAY, September 19

RMCHCS FLU VACCINATION CLINIC

8 am-12 pm @ College Clinic (2111 College Drive) Walk-ins as well as drivethrough vaccinations will be available. For those with no health insurance there will be a $25 fee.

MONDAY, September 21

CREATIVE CORNER

4 pm-5 pm @ Octavia Fellin Public Library You Tube.

Make your own art from materials around your home. Art courses are for the inner creative, geared toward people 15 years old and older. This week we will focus on Abstract Painting 103 (Continuation of oil painting from August)

on Facebook live at one of the scheduled times. For more information: (505) 863-1291.

PAINT YOUR OWN POTTERY

6 pm-8 pm @Healing Hands Studio (194 E. Hwy. 66) To sign up call (505) 488-2051 or contact klunasee@rmchcs.org. Sessions are $15 plus supplies.

SCULPTING

2 pm-4 pm @Healing Hands Studio (194 E. Hwy. 66) To sign up call (505) 488-2051 or contact klunasee@rmchcs.org. Sessions are $15 plus supplies.

COVID-19 TESTING DRIVE-UP EVENT

9 am-12 pm Casamero Lake Chapter. No appt. needed. For more information: (505) 786-6294, (505) 7866240.

WEDNESDAY, September 23

KIDS’ CLASS

6 pm-8 pm @Healing Hands Studio (194 E. Hwy. 66) To sign up call (505) 488-2051 or contact klunasee@rmchcs.org. Sessions are $15 plus supplies.

SENSORY SEPTEMBER

11 am. Join us on Facebook and Youtube @galluplibrary for fun sensory activities you can do at home for everything from learning the alphabet to improving motor skills. Tissue Paper Process Art is today’s activity. Videos are posted Wednesdays, Fridays at 11am.

TECH TIME ONLINE: DESIGN AND PRINT ONLINE WITH CANVA

4 pm Design and Print Online with Canva - Learn to create and design practically any type of document using a free online website, Canva. Create an account and jump right into this easy to learn program. For more information: libtrain@ gallupnm.gov; (505) 8631291.

CALENDAR

crafts and step-by-step tutorials for all skill levels.

This week we will create rock photo holders.

POUR MOLDS

1 pm-3 pm @Healing Hands Studio (194 E. Hwy. 66) To sign up call (505) 488-2051 or contact klunasee@rmchcs.org. Sessions are $15 plus supplies.

ONGOING

ART IN ISOLATION

Virtual show runs through Oct. 3. Organized by local artist Christian Bigwater, featuring new work created by seven artists, since the beginning of the pandemic @gallupARTS facebook page. ART123 Gallery is open by appointment on Fridays and Saturdays from 12 pm-4 pm. For more information: galluparts.org/ art123gallery

RMCHCS FLU VACCINES

9 am-5 pm Mon.-Sat. drive through hours (650 Vanden Bosch Pkwy.) and 5 pm- 9 pm Mon. – Sat. walk-ins; 12 pm-5 pm Sun. walk-ins.

Please bring insurance information. For those with no health insurance there will be a $25 fee.

GIRL SCOUTS ROBOT BUILDING PARTY

Times will be scheduled based on demand. This free ongoing activity continues until Nov. 30. For more information: https:// wwwnmgirlscounts.org/ en/about-girl-scouts/join/ robot-building-party.html; (505) 343-1040.

VIRTUAL TUTORING AND HOMEWORK HELP

4 pm on Facebook and Youtube @galluplibrary (all ages) for family-friendly

Beginning Sept. 8, The Boys & Girls Club of Gallup has been offering virtual tutoring and homework help with trained mentors using Zoom calls. Club members with a 2020 membership can attend for free after they fill out a virtual permission form on the club website. To get a 2020 membership, fill out an online application and permission form. It’s free.

The help will be available until Dec. 31. For more information: bgcgallup.com;

and eventually passed away at Carl R. Darnall Medical Center on Sept. 2. His death marked with his family and friends, the 28th casualty involving watching the Denver Broncos military personnel at Fort play, weightlifting, playing the Hood this year. guitar, and greatly appreciated Nez and Lizer have called Navajo culture and traditions. on members of Congress, U.S PFC Chee collapsed during Sec. of Defense Dr. Mark T. a training exercise on Aug. 28 Esper, Sec. of the Army Ryan

D. McCarthy, and Major Gen. John Richa rdson I V, who oversees the Fort Hood Army Base, to investigate the deaths and to provide answers to the families.

“We pray that the families of PFC Chee and Spc. Yazzie take comfort in knowing that their loved ones are now with

TUESDAY, September 22

ONE-2-ONE VIRTUAL TECHNOLOGY HELP

4 pm. The Library will offer one-2-one technology assistance online on Facebook Live and through Zoom.

Ask technology questions and get assistance during the live one-hour sessions.

Please email libtrain@ gallupnm.gov to get access to the zoom link, or join us

CHEE | FROM PAGE 11

CALENDAR

THURSDAY, September 24

CRAFTY KIDS

(505) 488-2378; Facebook@ BoysandGirlsClubGallup

DRIVE-UP COVID-19 TESTING

9 am-11 am T, Th @ UNM Gallup Lions Hall parking lot (705 Gurley Ave.). Testing open to first 200 people.

RMCHCS COVID-19 DRIVE-UP TESTING

9 am-5 pm M-Sat @ Urgent Care Center (520 NM Hwy 564, north of the New Mexico Cancer Center). Closed Sunday.

MCKINLEY COUNTY BACK TO SCHOOL IMMUNIZATION CLINICS

8:30 am – 4 pm Mon., Wed., Fri. continues through September. @ McKinley Public Health Office, 1919 College Dr. Call (505) 722-4391 to schedule an appointment.

Vaccines provided at no cost for children through 18 years of age. Bring your child’s shot record.

STIMULUS PAYMENT: ECONOMIC IMPACT SURVEY

In March, the U.S. Congress passed, and the President signed, the CARES Act, legislation designed to provide economic help for Americans affected by the COVID-19 pandemic.

As part of the law, most households would receive an “Economic Impact Payment” (a “stimulus check”) of $1,200 per adult and $500 per child under 17 years old, or up to $3,400 for a family of four.

It’s now September -- have you received your payment? Please take a moment to share your experience with us so that we can better serve the needs of the community.

TALKING TUESDAYS

4 pm on Facebook and YouTube @galluplibrary for book, author, movie, tech talks and more.

VIRTUAL FUN FRIDAYS WITH OFPL

2 pm-3 pm Fri. @ Octavia Fellin Public Library Facebook. Join the OFPL staff and special guests every Friday on Facebook Live for trivia games and more.

our Creator. We have many Navajo men and women serving proudly in every branch of the Armed Services. We pray for their protection as well, and ask our Creator to bring them home safely,” Lizer stated.

PFC Chee is survived by his two sons Thielen Nikolai Chee and Kozak Bode Chee,

OFPL BOOKMARK DESIGN CONTEST

OFPL is excited to announce the next phase of the contest. Vote online for your favorite bookmark in three age group categories. Winning designs will be professionally printed and distributed at OFPL’s Main Library and Children’s Branch. Vote now at ofpl. online, or social media, @ galluplibrary! Online polls close Wednesday, September 30 at 11:59 pm. For more information: jwhitman@gallupnm.gov; (505) 863-1291.

DIAL-A-STORY

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

LIBRARIES TRANSFORM DIGITAL READING PROGRAM

Sept. 14-28 OFPL joins public libraries nationwide in a digital reading program by offering access to the same ebook for a two-week period through the Libraries Transform Book Pick.

The ebook selection is Lauren Francis-Sharma’s epic saga Book of the Little Axe. During the lending period, ebook copies will be available without waitlists or holds through U.S. public libraries using OverDrive.

Readers will only need a library card and the Libby app to borrow and read the ebook. For more information: bmartin@gallupnm. gov; (505) 863-1291 .

Follow the Libraries Transform Book Pick on Facebook and Twitter and join the discussion on social media using the hashtag #LTBookPick.

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.

his fiancé Ieashia Pino, parents Gene Chee and Jeanette Chee, and sisters Lynette Coho, Vergena Chee, Janell Chee, Colette Chee, and Sharmaine Chee. The Nez-Lizer Administration also thanks the Navajo Hopi Honor Riders for providing the escort for the Sept. 15 graveside services.

Gallup Sun • Friday September 18, 2020

23

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