Gallup Sun • Friday December 1, 2017

E FRE

‘Three Billboards’ boasts a killer cast.

Film Review Page 19 VOL 3 | ISSUE 139 | DECEMBER 1, 2017

DWI TRIAL AND ERROR

Plea agreements, dismissals plague an overrun system. Story Page 3

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Friday December 1, 2017 • Gallup Sun

NEWS

NEWS Drunk driving in McKinley suffers 43 percent dismissal rate

By Deswood Tome Sun Correspondent

D

r iver s who operate a motor vehicle under the influence in McKinley County have a 43 percent chance that their criminal charge will be dropped or pleaded out by the district attorney.

The New Mexico Mothers Against Drunk Driv ing repor ts that McK i n ley County is the highest among six counties under a monitoring program of DWI case dismissals.

The one-year report cover i n g Ju ly 2 016 t h r ou g h July 2017 wa s relea sed in November. It shows that of the 380 monitored cases, 119 of them were dismissed, and an additional 44 were given a deferred prosecution.

Deferred prosecution is when the district attorney

Donaldson Pettigrew declines to prosecute and offers an arrangement to the defendant.

“It’s the prosecutors who are dismissing these cases,” McK i n ley Cou nt y Sher i f f Ron Silversmith sa id. “It gets frustrating.” Silversmith added that cases are dropped due to jurisdictional matters, defense attorneys prolonging the court calendar until

cases are dropped, and law enforcement officers leaving their agencies.

The M ADD repor t indicates that the district attorney’s office is understaffed and underfunded.

District Attorney Paula Pakka la , who recently replaced District Attorney Karl Gilson, was the lead DWI prosecuting attorney prior to her appointment as DA. “Defendants are sent to DUI school, a victim impact panel, and given 24 hours of com mu n it y s er v ice s ,” Pakkala said in an interview.

“That normally hadn’t been done in this office. We’re not going to do that anymore.”

Pakkala is spending more of her time with administrative and budget duties, and less time prosecuting.

She i nt end s t o reduce deferred prosecution cases and dismissals by spending

DWI STATISTICS

more time seeking funding i ncrea s e s, some t h rou g h

grants.

New Mexico law allows for judges to offer first time DWI offenders deferred prosecution. Once the defendant successfully completes the prog r a m t he DW I ch a rge i s d r o p p e d . No p l e a i s entered and the defendant’s court record shows no DWI conviction.

In Ga llup-McK inley Cou nt y a t h ree -ti me DW I offender wa s given a second offense agreement by Assistant District Attorney Will Robinson, who leads DWI prosecution for the 11th judicial district in Gallup.

Cr i m i na l ca ses i n t h is

DRUNK DRIVING | SEE PAGE 9

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NEWS

AG INVESTIGATES ILLEGAL SCHEME Bank employees victimized customers

7

GALLUP SUN BUSINESS DIRECTORY PAGE 11!

SEXUAL HARRASSMENT PLAN State legislators to update policy

13 16 17 CROWNPOINT MAN PLEADS GUILTY To federal assault charges

BLACK FRIDAY IN GALLUP Store managers weigh in

WINTER SPANISH MARKET Exquisite arts and crafts for sale

Gallup Sun • Friday December 1, 2017

3

AG Balderas announces investigation of Wells Fargo for illegal scheme THOUSANDS OF NEW MEXICANS WERE VICTIMIZED

Staff Reports

A

LBUQUERQUE – On Nov. 29, Attor ney Genera l Hector Balderas announced that he has been investigating Wells Fargo for over a year and will be making a demand for damages on behalf of thousands of New Mexicans who were victimized by an illegal scheme, which created nearly 19,000 fake and unauthorized bank and credit card accounts.

Wells Fargo is the largest, most powerful bank in New Mexico with 93 branches doing approximately $9 billion of business in the state. The attorney general’s investigation focuses on potential violations of the New Mexico Unfair Practices Act. The focus of the litigation is to strengthen corporate stewardship and increase consumer protection. “ W h i le h a r d wo rk i n g

Attorney General Hector Balderas New Mexico families were struggling to put food on the table, pay their bills and save what’s left for the future, Wells Fargo was scamming them and charging them fees for accounts they never authorized,” Balderas said. “When New Mexicans choose a bank, especially one with a national reputation, they deserve to be

treated fairly and honestly. My office will work directly with Wells Fargo to recover damages for the New Mexicans who were harmed, but if we cannot reach a resolution, I will bring litigation to make New Mexicans whole again.”

The attor ney genera l’s investigation revealed that Wells Fargo’s corporate management pressured employees to put profits over people, which led employees to open m i l l ions of u naut hor ized accounts. The business model was based on a high-pressure tactic known as “cross-selling,” where employees faced job loss or other consequences if they failed to meet demanding quotas to enroll customers in more and more products – whether the customers needed them or not.

To meet unrealistic quotas and sales targets imposed

by Wells Fargo executives,

The City of Gallup wishes to advise its utility customers to be on alert for a consumer scam.

Recently, several customers have reported receiving phone calls from a 1-888 number demanding payment for a delinquent utility bill to be paid through a money gram system to prevent the shutoff of utility services. Although the City of Gallup calls its customers to remind them to pay their accounts, the City will never ask

for payments to be made through a money gram system at a local store.

Furthermore, the City of Gallup does not collect payments in the field.

employees resorted to opening accounts and credit cards for customers without their knowledge or permission. The fake accounts generated fees for Wells Fargo, padding its bottom line while New Mexican families paid the price. New Mexicans could have been paying for groceries, clothes, or college savings, but were instead hit with illegal fees, draining their bank accounts and damaging their credit scores.

Wells Fargo knew about

these sales practices but did nothing to stop the employee b e h a v i o r, a s b u s i n e s s

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Friday December 1, 2017 • Gallup Sun

INVESTIGATION | SEE PAGE 9

Gallup Sun Publishing, LLC Publisher/Editor Babette Herrmann

On the Cover: 36 people in the U.S. die everyday and about 700 are injured in motor vehicle crashes that involved an alcohol-impaired driver. U.S. Air Force photo

by Airman 1st Class Zachary Hada/Released 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 The Gallup Sun, pending USPS number 1, is mailed weekly.

Application to mail at periodical rates is pending in Gallup NM. 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.

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NEWS

Keller announces executive team appointments Staff Reports

A

L BUQU E RQU E – On Nov. 27, MayorElect T i m Kel ler announced appointments to a number of executive positions at the Albuquerque M ayor ’s office. Keller i s com m it ted to building a qualified and professional administration to address the challenges facing Albuquerque head on.

Sarita Nair will serve as the City’s Chief Administrative Officer (CAO). Nair has served as the Office of the State Auditor’s Chief Government Accountability Officer and General Counsel for the past three years, following a prestigious law career where she represented government and business clients. She earned a master’s degree from the University of New Mexico School of Community and Regional Planning. Nair will be the first woman in the City’s

NEWS

history to serve as CAO. Keller also named Sunalei Stewart as Chief of Staff and Deputy CAO, Sanjay Bhakta as Chief Financial Officer, and Justine Freeman as Deputy Chief of Staff.

“One of the most important tasks during this historically short transition period is crafting a leadership team to take over operations on day one, while implementing our vision for a safe, innovative and inclusive city,” said Mayor-Elect Tim Keller. “Each of these appointees brings strong experience and dedication to their work and will serve our city well.”

The appointments will take effect Dec. 1 on an interim basis initially.

Chief Administrative Officer (CAO): Sarita Nair, JD, MCRP Nair served as the Office of the State Auditor’s Chief Government Accountability Officer and General Counsel for the past three years. She joined the OSA after working as a private practice attorney, representing private companies and public entities in business and governance matters

since 2004, a nd wa s a shareholder at Sutin, Thayer and Browne. She is AV-rated by M a r t i nd a le Hubbell, and has been recognized by Best Lawyers, Southwest Super Lawyers, and Chambers & Partners USA. Before entering private practice, Nair clerked for Judge Lynn Pickard at the New Mexico Court of Appeals.

She graduated magna cum laude from the University of New Mexico School of Law. Prior to her law career, Nair worked in the field of international development and consulted on policy initiatives for a number of organizations, including the United Nations Economic Commission for Latin America and the Caribbean and the New York City Parks and Recreation Department. She earned a master’s degree from the University of New Mexico School of Community a nd Regiona l Planning and earned her bachelor’s degree from Wesleyan

University. She is active in the community, having served on the boards of many nonprofits and legal groups.

Chief of Staff and Deputy CAO: Sunalei Stewart, JD, MA, CFE Stewar t ser ved as t he Of f ice of the State Aud itor’s Chief of Staff for the pa st three years. Prior to joining OSA, he served as New Mexico’s Deputy Commissioner of Public Lands from 2012 to 2015. Prior to joining the State Land Office, from 2004 - 2012 he worked for former U.S. Senator Jeff Bingaman in various positions, including Legislative Director and Chief Counsel. Stewart also worked for the U.S. Department of State, Office of the Legal Adviser.

Stewa r t wa s raised in New Mexico and received his bachelor’s degree in political science and philosophy from the University of Arizona and his juris doctorate and master’s degree from American

University. He is a member of the New Mexico State Bar (Active), California State Bar (Inactive) and Oregon State Bar (Inactive).

Stewart is also a Certified Fraud Examiner (CFE).

Chief Financial Officer (CFO): Sanjay Bhakta, CPA, CGFM, CFE, CGMA Bhakta ser ved as Deputy State Auditor for the past three years.

He came to the State Auditor’s Office from the Depar tment of Finance & Administration (DFA). While at the DFA, he ser ved in v a r iou s c a pa c it ie s s uc h as Chief Financial Officer, Ad m i n i s t r a t i ve S er v ic e s Director, and acting Local Government Division Director.

Prior to joining the DFA, Bhakta worked at the NM State Auditor’s office from 2004 - 2012.

He started as a Senior Auditor and progressed through the rank of an Audit Supervisor

EXECUTIVE TEAM | SEE PAGE 21

Gallup Sun • Friday December 1, 2017

5

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Gov. Susana Martinez in June 2016 addressing local residents affected by the Dog Head Fire. Photo Credit: Laura Paskus, NM Political Report

Most recent audit reveals state still has problems distributing disaster money

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Friday December 1, 2017 • Gallup Sun

ARTWORK BY HUNTER LAWSON, AGE 11

ANTA FE – Another audit turned in months after it was due reveals the state Department of Homeland Security and Emergency Management still has problems with finances and management—some of which date back years—but is showing some signs of improvement.

The 2016 audit was publicly released in late October when State Auditor Tim Keller sent a letter back to the department’s secretary, M. Jay Mitchell.

The independent audit reveals 14 significant problems, some of which were also found in previous years’ audits.

NM Political Re por t requested an interview with Mitchell or the department’s Chief Financial Officer, Sarah Peterson. The public information officer could not make either available for an interview, but Mitchell did respond via email.

“The most recent audit you are inquiring about reflects issues and status from over 17 months ago, many of which were self-identified by the department and are the result of systemic issues that were created over 10 years ago,” Mitchell wrote, adding that the problems were not properly addressed in subsequent years.

The secretary added that the department plans to submit its 2017 audit in January, and the 2018 audit will be completed and submitted ahead of the state’s deadline in November 2018.

For now, the public view into the agency’s finances is the 2016 audit, which shows the state agency continues to hold onto federal disaster money meant

for local communities. Some of those grants date back a decade, and when combined with newly authorized federal emergency funds, as of the end of June, New Mexico was still holding onto $30 million in unspent federal grant money.

After a governor declares a disaster and the Federal E mer ge nc y M a n a geme nt Administration (FEMA) allocates funding, state and local governments also contribute money to qualify for matching grants. Once a project is finished and inspected, FEMA pays the state, which is supposed to send that money to the local entity “as expeditiously as possible.”

But that hasn’t been done in a timely manner, which sometimes means local governments, contractors and businesses are not reimbursed for recovery work until years later.

Some of the local governments still awaiting federal funds at the end of June included counties and tribes across the state that were affected by flooding disasters, winter storm and freezing emergencies as well as wildfires like the WhitewaterBaldy, Little Bear, Thompson and Dog Head blazes. The audit’s spreadsheet also shows a $545,168 balance related to recovery from the Gold King Mine Spill.

There are also gaps in the auditor’s knowledge of what is happening at the state agency.

“For six of the 10 opinion units, the auditor issued qualified opinions, indicating that the [independent public accountant] was unable to obtain sufficient information with respect to the

DISASTER MONEY | SEE PAGE 11 NEWS

Legislative leadership announces steps toward updating sexual harassment plan

By Matthew Reichbach NM Political Report

S

ANTA FE – Legislative lea der sh ip i n bot h chambers and of both parties announced a bipartisan group of legislators will address the state’s sexual harassment policy.

The sexua l ha ra ssment policy wa s la st rev ised in 2008, which was also the last time legislators underwent sexual harassment training.

T h e g r ou p of le g i s l a t or s w i l l work w it h t he Legislative Council Service a s wel l a s out side at t orneys to review the existing policy a nd recommend a n updated draft policy to the L eg i sl a t ive Cou nc i l . T he Legislative Council, which is made up of members of each chamber, will then vote on adoption of the new policy in January.

L ea der sh ip a n nou nced that the working group will look at applying the policy to staff, contractors, lobbyists and outside vendors in addition to legislators as well as “clearly outlining terms of enforcement” and outlining protections for those reporting sexual harassment from any retaliation.

A few leg i slat or s, l i ke Speaker of the House Brian Egolf, D-Santa Fe, and House Minority Leader Nate Gentry,

R-A lbuquerque, seemed to acknowledge a problem with sex ua l ha ra ssment i n t he Roundhouse when they sent out a blanket press release on Nov. 29, almost a week after New Mexico Secretary of State Maggie Tou louse Oliver announced she was implementing a volu nta r y t r a i n i ng for lobby i st s on sexual harassment, and Rep. Kelly Fajardo, R-Los Lunas, said in an open letter that she witnessed sexual harassment in the Roundhouse.

So fa r, however, t here have been no specific, public reports of sexual harassment in the state capitol. “ My hop e i s t h a t t h i s ef for t doe sn’t ju st re su lt in a policy cha nge, but in a c u lt u r a l ch a n ge a t t he Rou nd hou se,” Egol f sa id.

“If we want our state to be safe and inclusive then we must make the halls of the Roundhouse safe and inclusive for all who work or visit there.”

“I look forward to worki ng to ensu re the v icti ms have swift access to justice without fear of retaliation,” Gentry said.

Others praised the effort they just announced.

“I am confident the New Mexico State Legislature’s ‘No Harassment Policy’ will be stronger than ever to protect all of those who work

Legislative leaders will address the state’s sexual harassment policy. Photo Credit: Laura Paskus, NM Political Report in or visit their state capitol,” Senate Minority Leader Stuart Ingle, R-Portales, said. “ T he work i ng g roup is t a s ke d w i t h c o n d u c t i n g

research on needed policy changes to address sexual harassment in the Capitol,” Senate Majority Leader Peter Wirth, D-Santa Fe, said. “We

intend to tackle this problem, a nd w ill ta ke strong action.”

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Interior Department mired in investigations

By Lyndsey Gilpin NM Political Report

W

ASHINGTON, D.C. – Interior Secretary Ryan Zinke has brushed off criticism over his expensive use of private and military planes for travel, telling conservative supporters that the whole issue is just “a little B.S.” But several watchdog agencies, congressional Democrats and legal experts believe it’s more than that. After only eight months in office, Zinke’s taxpayer-funded travel, meetings with political donors and other actions have led to several official probes. “We’ve been tracking Zinke and what he’s been doing at the Department of Interior,” says Daniel Stevens, executive director of the nonprofit, nonpartisan Campaign for Accountability. “It led us to look into whether he’s violated any rules or laws.”

T h i s s t or y or i g i n a l ly appeared at High Country News.

In August, Interior’s Office of Inspector General — which investigates reports of government corruption — opened a preliminary investigation into

phone calls Zinke made to Alaskan Republican Sens. Lisa Murkowski and Dan Sullivan, in which he allegedly threatened to block energy projects in their state after Murkowski voted against the GOP health-care bill.

The OIG is also investigating Zinke’s decision to move 50 senior federal employees to new positions within the Interior Department, after a whistleblower said he was transferred because of his work on climate change. In October, the Campaign for Accountability asked the Office of Government Ethics to look into the millions of dollars Zinke has funneled into conservative “scam PACs” accused of misleading donors.

Additionally, the Office of Special Counsel is examining Zinke’s appearances at political fundraisers during government trips, and the Interior OIG and Government Accountability Office are scrutinizing his $12,000 flight from Las Vegas to Montana in a plane owned by oil and gas executives, following an event with political donors.

Though the investigations are serious, watchdog agencies and legal experts say they’re unlikely

U.S. Congressman Ryan Zinke of Montana speaking at the 2016 Conservative Political Action Conference (CPAC) in National Harbor, Maryland. Photo Credit: Gage Skidmore to result in criminal charges or impede Zinke’s plans to remake Interior. “This situation with the Interior secretary is abnormal,” says Kathleen Clark, law professor at Washington University in St. Louis. “But it could be likely he will have more of a political price rather than any specific legal price to pay.” Meanwhile, the barrage of charges and

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Friday December 1, 2017 • Gallup Sun

countercharges further erodes trust in the federal government.

Congress has established OIG offices in most government agencies to investigate potential abuses of power, misuse of funds and other ethical violations. After investigations — which can take weeks, months or even years — the Inspector General is required to issue public reports. Historically, though, Interior’s OIG has published only a “small fraction” of these, says Jeff Ruch, executive director of Public Employees for Environmental Responsibility.

In 2014, for instance, the department released reports on just three out of 40 cases.

In light of this, some watchdog groups worry that any findings about Zinke’s conduct will simply pass unnoticed without outside pressure. Investigations are only effective “because of people’s reaction,” Ruch says.

The Interior Department has faced scandals before. In 2008, the OIG found that Interior was riddled with them under the George W. Bush administration, including substance abuse, sexual misconduct and conflicts of interest with oil and gas companies. In 2012, an investigation found an Interior report was edited to suggest that the Obama administration’s proposed drilling moratorium after the Deepwater Horizon oil spill was peer-reviewed by scientific experts.

But the Trump administration is “unusual” because of the number of complaints, says Stevens. The OIG and other agency watchdogs have yet to respond to some of the allegations, including whether David

Bernhardt, deputy secretary of Interior, violated lobbying laws.

A month after it launched the investigation into Zinke’s call to the Alaska senators, the Interior OIG dropped it. The senators declined to be interviewed, according to Deputy Inspector General Mary Kendall, acting head of the agency since 2009, so “the OIG does not believe that it could meaningfully investigate.” Interior OIG spokeswoman Nancy DiPaolo declined to comment on the other, ongoing investigations, and Interior did not respond to requests for comment.

Other federal agencies may later weigh in. The independent Office of Special Counsel, for instance, is determining whether Zinke violated the Hatch Act, which prevents employees from engaging in political activity, by allegedly attending political fundraisers while on duty. The Government Accountability Office is also expected to release a legal opinion on Zinke’s call to the Alaskan senators.

It could be months before the investigations yield results, but congressional Democrats vow to prioritize the issue. “Secretary Zinke deserves a chance to explain himself, so we’ll be patient and let the investigations take place,” says Congressman Raúl Grijalva, D-Ariz. “But if the investigation finds violations of the law or waste, fraud or abuse, then I can promise you that we’ll raise hell until everyone involved is held accountable.”

Lyndsey Gilpin is a former HCN fellow and the editor of Southerly, a newsletter for the American South.

Visit HCN.org NEWS

Shiprock man sentenced to prison for voluntary manslaughter conviction

DRUNK DRIVING | FROM PAGE 3 instance suffer from the discretion the prosecutor uses over which cases go to trial in the pursuit of a conviction.

For i n st a nce, a r re st records show that Donaldson Pettigrew, 28, of Gallup was first arrested for drinking and driving on Oct. 16, 2010, by the McKinley County Sheriff’s Office. He was booked for aggravated DUI, first offense.

His blood alcohol content level was .24.

Fou r mont h s later, i n February 2011, Pettigrew was arrested by Gallup Police after refusing to submit to a field sobriety test. His blood alcohol content level at the time of booking was .20.

On July 7, Pettigrew was stopped by the McK inley County Sheriff’s Office for speeding. Inv. Merle Bates conducted two field sobriety tests to measure Pettigrew’s ability to operate a motor vehicle, and determine his level of intoxication. Pettigrew failed both tests. He was arrested.

While being booked into detention, Pettigrew agreed to the New Mexico Implied Consent Advisory requirement for his blood alcohol content level to be measured.

His results were .23, nearly three times the legal limit. In New Mexico, any level over .08 is DWI. Less than .08 is impaired driving.

Court records show that Pettigrew was charged for the July 7 incident with no driver’s license, expired registration, speeding, driving while revoked license-DWI related, and driving while under the influence of liquor or drugs .08 and above for a second offense.

The district attorney dismissed the charge of expired registration, speeding, and driving while revoked license.

Pettigrew pleaded guilty to no driver’s license and to DWI second offense.

B y l aw, Pe t t i g r ew i s required to be charged with a third DWI offense, a misdemeanor with a mandatory 30-day jail time and $750 fine.

INVESTIGATION | FROM PAGE 4 skyrocketed. The company also failed to create an adequate risk management framework that would have alerted it to questionable sales practices.

NEWS

Staff Reports

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A three-year driver’s license revocation is imposed for a third offense.

Instead, Pettigrew was ordered by the court to pay fines and fees and given community service for a second DWI offense.

A second DWI offense carries a mandatory 96 hours of jail, $500 in mandatory fines, and a two-year driver’s license revocation. Fou r t h DW I offenses are felonies.

W hen a sked about Pettigrew’s case, Pakkala replied, “I’m not going to discuss this case. I do not believe he got a deferred prosecution.”

Pakkala did not have case details with her.

“One of the things we did in some of those cases with time limits, we did a diversion agreement,” Pakkala said.

For cases that are dismissed, the district attorney referred to evidence suppression by defense attorneys, sometimes missing certifications of equipment used during the arrest, and officers leaving.

“When an officer leaves an agency and goes to another job, we necessarily can’t get them back to court and testify,” Pakkala said.

The MADD report shows that 15 percent of dismissals are due to officers leaving agencies.

Additionally, some of the dismissals were ba sed on Judge Kenneth Howard, who passed away. “ We h a ve s i x mo nt h s under arraignment to bring a case to conclusion,” Pakkala said. No conclusion means

cases get dropped.

Jurisdiction is yet another factor.

“On Boardman Drive you go in and out of the Navajo Nation,” she said. Gallup is surrounded by reservation land. McKinley County Sheriff Deputies record GPS description in their police reports, but it’s sometimes an issue with select cases.

The Distr ict Attor ney’s f ive DW I prosecutors a re handling more than 600 open DW I ca ses. The attor neys also prosecute cases in the Crownpoint District Court on the Navajo Nation.

A c a l l wa s pl a ced t o Governor Susana Martinez’s office on Nov. 28, since she committed $800,000 for the monitor reporting by MADD through the use of New Mexico Department of Transportation funding.

“There are too many DWI offenders who are driving drunk over and over again who never face the consequences for their actions,” Emilee Cantrell said, who serves as the spokesperson for Martinez.

“The Governor started the DWI court monitoring initiative to watch the DWI adjudication process and provide information to the public about how those cases are being handled.”

The monitoring project is funded for two years by the New Mexico Department of Transportation. The six counties were chosen because of the high rate of DWI-related fatalities. The program can be extended for an additional two years, Cantrell said.

When individual customers have attempted to sue Wells Fargo in the past, the bank previously and successfully compelled those cases to arbitration, allowing the fraud to continue for years. Wells Fargo’s customer agreements

still contain arbitration clauses, which prevent individuals from suing the bank for fraud or wrongdoing. The arbitration clause does not, however, prevent the attorney general from taking action to protect New Mexico consumers.

LBUQUERQUE – Larry June, 58, an enrolled member of the Navajo Nation who resides in Shiprock, N.M., was sentenced Nov. 21 in federal court in Albuquerque, N.M., to 97 months in prison for his conviction on a voluntary manslaughter charge.

June will be on supervised release for three years after completing his prison sentence.

The FBI and Navajo Nation Division of Public Safety arrested June in Nov. 2016, on a criminal complaint charging him with killing a Navajo woman by stabbing her with a knife on Nov. 25, 2016, on the Navajo Indian Reservation in San Juan County, N.M. June was subsequently indicted on Dec. 20, 2016, and was charged with second-degree murder.

On Aug. 21, June pleaded guilty to a felony information charging him with voluntary manslaughter. In entering the guilty plea, June admitted that on Nov. 25, 2016, he stabbed the victim multiple times with a knife during a heated argument, and that the victim died as the result of the injuries she sustained.

This case was investigated by the Farmington office of the FBI and the Shiprock office of the Navajo Nation Division of Public Safety. Assistant U.S. Attorneys

Larry June Niki Tapia-Brito and Michael D. Murphy prosecuted the case as part of the Tribal Special Assistant U.S. Attorney Pilot Project in the District of New Mexico, which is sponsored by the Justice Department’s Office on Violence Against Women under a grant administered by the Pueblo of Laguna.

The Tribal SAUSA Pilot Project seeks to train tribal prosecutors in federal law, procedure and investigative techniques to increase the likelihood that every viable violent offense against Native women is prosecuted in either federal court or tribal court, or both.

The project was largely driven by input gathered from annual tribal consultations on violence against women, and is another step in the Justice Department’s on-going efforts to increase engagement, coordination and action on public safety in tribal communities.

Gallup Sun • Friday December 1, 2017

9

WEEKLY DWI REPORT Staff Reports Tyrone Chavez Nov. 11, 8:53 pm DWI McKinley C o u n t y Sheriff’s Lt. Eric D. Jim go t a c a l l from Metro dispatch about a reckless vehicle driving the wrong direction down a highway. The vehicle pulled into and then drove out of the Fire Rock Casino parking lot before hitting another vehicle on Sundance Road.

Jim located the bumper-damaged vehicle and pulled over Chavez, 44, who had red watery eyes and intoxicated speech, according to the police report.

Jim noticed a “large bottle of vodka in the center console… which was open and partially consumed,” according to the police report. Chavez showed signs of intoxication on three field sobriety tests, and later blew a .22 and a .23 before he was taken to Crownpoint Jail

for booking.

Sonya Dilyou Dees Nov. 11, 12:32 pm DWI, Aggravated Gallup P o l i c e Department O f f i c e r D a n i e l Brown was on patrol when he received notice of a hit-and-run crash on U.S. Highway 491. Brown found the two vehicles with heavy damage in a Pep Boys parking lot. Dees, 29, allegedly hit the other vehicle before making a sharp left turn, fleeing the scene. The other driver followed Dees to the Pep Boys parking lot, where Brown spoke with them both. Dees had red eyes and was “incoherent,” according to the police report. Dees refused field tests at the scene and said to Brown: “just take me in,” according to the report.

Laureen Kee Nov. 11, 11:46 pm 1st DWI, Aggravated MCSO Dep. Lorenzo A.

Guerrero was driving south on Highway 602 behind a truck that was failing to stay in its lane.

Guerrero made a traffic stop and encountered Kee, 53, who smelled strongly of alcohol, according to the police report. Kee showed signs of intoxication on one field sobriety test, and failed to complete a second one, telling Guerrero that she could not do it because she had had too much to drink, according to the police report.

Guerrero then placed Kee under arrest. Kee refused a breath test.

Vance Buntenbach Nov. 9, 10:55 pm DWI GPD officer Andrew Thayer was d r i v i n g ea stbound on Aztec Avenue when he saw a

vehicle waiting at a stop sign on Valentina Drive. The vehicle sped up and cut Thayer off when he approached the intersection, driving 35 mph in a 25 mph zone. Thayer made a traffic stop on East Highway 66, where he encountered Buntenbach, 26. Buntenbach appeared intoxicated, accordi ng to the police repor t, and was driving without a license due to a previous DWI. Buntenbach admitted to drinking one Four Loco and two shots of Union Jack prior to driving that night, according to the police report. Buntenbach performed poorly on all three field sobriety tests that Thayer administrated. Thayer placed Buntenbach under arrest, causing him to grow “belligerent,” according to the report. At the station, Buntenbach blew a .16 and a .15 on the breath test.

Norena A. Joe Nov. 9, 6:41 pm 1st DWI, Aggravated M C S O Sg t. Henio E l r e n o stopped Joe, 44, after seeing her drift between l a n e s .

E l r e n o approached Joe on State Highway 118. Elreno smelled

a lcohol com i ng from the vehicle and found two cans of Mike’s Hard Cranberr y Lemonade in the center console cup holder, according to the police report. Joe failed a field sobriety test, and “was so intoxicated she had to be assisted into sheriff unit,” according to the report. Joe refused to take a breath test.

Leland Gordon Nov. 9, 5:37 pm 2nd DWI, Aggravated Gordon, 42, was taken to local hospitalafter a t t empt i n g to pass a s e m i - t r uck on Interstate 4 0 a nd c r a s h i n g i nt o a guardrail. MCSO Dep. Jeff Branhurst, who was first at the scene, requested Sgt. Tammy Houghtaling meet him at the hospital as Gordon appeared intoxicated. Once at the hospital, Houghtaling smelled alcohol on Gordon, and Gordon admitted to “drinking all day,” according to the police report.

Houghtaling could not administer field sobriety tests since Gordon had been transported to the hospital, and Gordon refused a blood draw test.

Gordon was booked after his release from the hospital.

State Police announce checkpoints and saturation patrols statewide for December

awareness to these events in to make the right decision not an effort to reduce alcohol to drink and drive. tate Police w ill be related fatalities through conWho: conducting sobriety tinued media attention and New Mexico State Police checkpoints; satura- intensive advertising. These o live by such as honesty, integrity and clarity. As a family-owned What: tion patrols; and regis- checkpoints aim to change Sobr iet y Check poi nt s, old these values everyandday.

It’s the way you liveabout anddrinkthe way tration, insurance driver’s society’s attitude Satu ration Pat rols a nd license checkpoints in all New ing and driving.

Registration /Insurance/DL Mexico counties during the Police believe hundreds of month of December. lives could be saved each year P o l i c e a r e b r i n g i n g if every driver had the courage Staff Reports

S

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Friday December 1, 2017 • Gallup Sun

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DISASTER MONEY | FROM PAGE 6 completeness and accuracy of these funds and activities, which may in turn result in material misstatements to the financial statements,” Keller wrote in the letter. “The audit does indicate some progress is being made; however, many of the same issues remain.”

State law requires that all public agencies in New Mexico— from the largest cabinet-level departments to the smallest local irrigation districts—complete audits each year that gauge the accuracy of their financial reporting and help identify errors or problems. When turning in an audit to the Office of the State Auditor, the independent accountant is required to offer an opinion about the agency’s financial reporting.

A “d iscla i mer”—wh ich DHSEM received on its 2015 audit—means the agency didn’t provide accountants with enough information for them to offer an opinion. This year’s “qualified” opinion represents an improvement, but still is not good news. It means the auditor didn’t obtain sufficient information from the agency, but this NEWS

Office Printing Book Nook Teaching Supplies (505) 722-6661 1900 E. Hwy 66 Gallup, NM year, the auditor concluded that possible misstatements could be “material but not pervasive.”

That knocked DHSEM off OSA’s At-Risk List of agencies with adverse or disclaimed opinions. The list currently includes seven public entities including the towns of Bernalillo, Estancia and Vaughn and Northern New Mexico College.

For years, problems have been blamed on high turnover and staff vacancies. Keller’s letter to Mitchell notes that the March 2017 hiring freeze ordered

by Gov. Susana Martinez contributed to that problem, and did not save state agencies money as intended. Instead, Keller notes that DHSEM outsourced assistance “at considerable cost.” The audit reveals that the agency issued about $1.5 million in contracts in 2016, including $537,753 to an outside accounting firm, nearly a halfmillion dollars to two different temporary staffing companies and $110,000 to a Dallas-based company for IT services.

In 2016, Keller asked that the governor help in address “allegations and concerns” about the agency. He suggested that the state’s Department of Finance and Administration (DFA)

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oversee disaster grants and take over DHSEM’s critical financial functions. Martinez did not respond to the State Auditor’s letter, but a spokesman for her office praised Mitchell for having “righted the ship” and for making “significant and undeniable progress when it comes to [the state agency’s] finances.”

I n 2 015 , b o t h F E M A and the U.S. Department of Transportation investigated the state agency for problems managing federal grants. FEMA commended Mitchell and staff for making improvements, but in its 12-page letter to the department, it also noted that DHSEM still lacked standard file management conventions.

The 2016 audit notes that DHS has been working with FEMA “on a number of issues” related to grant management and as part of this, the federal agency has made “several monitoring visits.” Both the independent audit and Keller’s letter say the state agency is making “progress toward resolving these issues.”

A spokesman for FEMA, when asked for information related to the audit, wrote via email: “I’m going to have to tell you the same thing this year that I

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Call (505) 722-8994 or (505) 728-1640 said last year. Work with the state on questions about the audit.”

Some of the problems noted within the 2016 audit, performed by the independent accounting firm CliftonLarsonAllen, include: Non-compliance with the requirements of certain federal grants, including public assistance disaster grants, E mer ge nc y M a n a geme nt Performance Grants and the Homeland Security Grant Program. Of 12 public assistance disaster grant reports auditors selected for testing, DHS was “unable to provide documentation to support the amounts reported in the financial report” for any of them. In addition, six of those reports were not filed in a timely manner. They noted similar problems on financial reports tested from the other two federal grants.

Non-compliance with the Federal Funding Accountability and Transparency Act A lack of “effective internal control structure” over timely and accurate financial reports A lack of processes and controls to reconcile payroll data.

During a review of five entries, auditors found that two were posted to the incorrect fund and/

or account.

A lack of internal controls to “ensure timely and accurate reporting” of its capital assets.

(DHS had been reporting, for example, a building with an original cost of $2.3 million, which is also reported by the General Services Department; the net book value of the building is $1.3 million. It also lacked documentation of another asset valued at $182,000 that it could not locate or had disposed of and not documented.)

Incorrect coding of expenditures to the correct operating unit. Auditors added that for two types of federal grants, DHS “intends to reconcile all prior grants before closing them out, however, we are currently unable to obtain sufficient audit evidence to determine if the Department complied with the applicable compliance requirements related to the period of availability.”

Emergency Management Performance Grant-funded personnel have not met the required exercises and training.

Failure to maintain a cash receipts log.

Courtesy of NM Political Report Visit NMpoliticalreport. com

Gallup Sun • Friday December 1, 2017

11

Weekly Police Activity Reports Nazlini man residence, finding it abandoned and filled with empty beer cans.

Another accident, this time between vehicle and pedestrian, occurred on Nov. 24, 6:01 pm on State Highway 118 and Delta Street. The pedestrian was intoxicated and walking in the middle of the street, according to the police report. The driver tried to swerve but his passenger side mirror hit the pedestrian in the back of the head. The passenger suffered a small cut on the back of the head and was taken to the hospital.

Staff Reports

A

n accident occur red on Interstate 40 on Nov. 27, when one vehicle rear-ended and clipped a second vehicle, after the driver dropped an item and was distracted from the road.

Both vehicles were traveling at about 60 MPH. The vehicle that was struck had its hazard lights on, as the driver was slowing down and attempting to exit the interstate. Neither driver was injured, but both cars sustained heavy damage.

A fire broke out on the Mariano Lake Loop on Nov. 26. McKinley County Sheriff’s Deputy Nocona Clark reported to the scene early in the morning, at 4:01 am. One of the occupants of

12

the building told Clark that he had tried to pull his mother out of the burning house but the roof collapsed onto her, according to the police report. Clark and a second deputy went on to follow tracks leading from the burning home to a trailer about 200 feet east of the

Fred Jesse

Friday December 1, 2017 • Gallup Sun

Linda Keith

GANG ROBBERY A woman was on her way to Family Dollar on Nov. 21 at about 1 pm when

POLICE ACTIVITY | SEE PAGE 16

Marlon Johnson

sentenced for child abuse on Navajo Nation Staff Reports

P

HOENIX – On Nov. 27, Nathan Joe, 36, of Nazlini, Ariz., was sentenced by U.S. District Judge John J. Tuchi to 21 months in prison for physically abusing a child on the Navajo Indian Reservation.

In February 2014, Joe physically assaulted the minor victim, including slapping him with enough force to leave a handprint-sized bruise on the victim’s face. Both Joe and the victim were living on the Navajo Indian Reservation at the time the assault occurred. Joe is an enrolled member of that tribe.

The investigation in this case was conducted by the Federal Bureau of Investigation. The prosecution was handled by Christine D. Keller, Assistant U.S. Attorney, District of Arizona, Phoenix.

NEWS

Navajo man from Crownpoint pleads guilty to federal assault charges DEFENDANT PROSECUTED AS PART OF FEDERAL INITIATIVE TO ADDRESS THE EPIDEMIC INCIDENCE OF VIOLENCE AGAINST NATIVE WOMEN Staff Reports

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L BUQU E RQU E – Shayliss Ellsworth, 24, a n en rolled member of the Navajo Nation who resides in Crownpoint, pleaded guilty on Nov. 27 in federal court in Albuquerque to assault charges. Under the terms of his plea agreement, Ellsworth faces a prison sentence within the range of 70 to 87 months followed by a term of supervised release to be determined by the court.

Ellsworth was arrested on June 21 on a criminal complaint charging him with stabbing two Navajo women with a knife on June 17, on the Navajo Indian Reservation in McKinley County. As the result of the assault, the first victim suffered a cut across her NEWS

Shayliss Ellsworth face through her mouth, stab wounds on her left side and right breast, and a cut and stab wound to her left arm, which cut her artery causing profuse bleeding.

The second victim suffered cuts on her neck and finger and a stab wound on her right arm.

According to the complaint, the first victim underwent multiple surgeries including a surgery to amputate her left arm as the result of the assault.

Ellsworth was subsequently charged in a four-count indictment on July 11, with two counts of assault with a dangerous weapon, a knife, and two counts of assault resulting in serious bodily injury. According to the indictment, the crimes took place on June 17, on the Navajo Indian Reservation in McKinley County.

During the Nov. 27 proceedings, Ellsworth pleaded guilty to two counts of assault resulting in serious bodily injury. In the plea agreement, Ellsworth admitted that on June 17 he assaulted two women with a knife causing serious bodily injury to both. Ellsworth further admitted that the first victim suffered stab wounds to

her right chest, cuts to her left arm, a deep puncture wound that cut an artery and disfiguring cuts to her face.

The first victim underwent multiple surgeries and eventually had her left arm amputated as the result of the injuries caused by Ellsworth. Ellsworth also admitted that the second victim suffered stab wounds to her right shoulder and neck, which required surgery to close.

Ellsworth remains in custody pending a sentencing hearing, which has yet to be scheduled.

This case was investigated by the Farmington office of the FBI and the Navajo Nation Div ision of Public Safety.

A s si st a nt U.S. At tor neys Jennifer M. Rozzoni and Niki Tapia-Brito are prosecuting the case as part of the Tribal Special Assistant U.S. Attorney

(Tribal SAUSA) Pilot Project in the District of New Mexico, which is sponsored by the Justice Department’s Office on Violence Against Women under a grant administered by the Pueblo of Laguna.

The Tribal SAUSA Pilot Project seeks to train tribal prosecutors in federal law, procedure and investigative techniques to increase the likelihood that every viable violent offense against Native women is prosecuted in either federal court or tribal court, or both.

The Tribal SAUSA Pilot Project was largely driven by input gathered from annual tribal consultations on violence against women, and is another step in the Justice Department’s on-going efforts to increase engagement, coordination and action on public safety in tribal communities.

Gallup Sun • Friday December 1, 2017

13

OPINIONS LETTER TO THE EDITOR

D

ear Editor, As I am currently traveling abroad in Japan I have enjoyed staying abreast of Gallup news via your great website. I am taking the effort to write this letter out of concern in regards to your coverage of the proposed trails/recreational area on the Northside.

I am disappointed at what appears to be odd coverage of this exciting proposition for Gallup. To be specific your coverage doesn’t seem to talk

Don’t fear Gallup Land Partners

about any of the positive attributes that this project could bring to our residents and visitors.

Instead the coverage merely talks about the tax decisions the county is making on this project, and then ruminates on the dangers that may possibly exist out there.

Unsubstantiated fear is never a good reason to report on. Is it not common knowledge that the High Desert Trail System which the public has been enjoying for over a

decade is also on previously mined land that is also owned

by Gallup Land Partners?

I understand that the Northside property may be different (although I have trod on it for nearly two decades and would assure anyone that walking down Route 66 is inherently more dangerous than this area). But what bothers me is that by your reporting standards one could summarily conclude that we should also close pyramid rock trail because of rattle snakes, or

MADAME G

cancel the football programs for fear of injury. Shoot, we may as all well sell our homes here in Gallup because they might cave in from the mines under them and the associated radon gas risk??

If Gallup is to keep moving forward with life, we cannot be consumed with unsubstantiated fear. We have enough real trials to endure in this life, we don’t need to invent any more.

Sincerely, Chuck Van Drunen Gallup, NM 87301

Keep out signs appear on a portion of land GLP intends to designate for public use.

GUIDE TO THE STARS WEEK OF DECEMBER 1

Light up the sky! The month’s only Supermoon appears on Dec. 3. According to the Farmer’s Almanac, “the Full Moon is [at its] closest distance to Earth causing the Moon to appear up to 14 percent larger and 30 percent brighter than usual.” Madame G recommends you take advantage of the light in the sky and allow it to show you the way. Start New Year’s early.

ARIES (March 21-April 19)

CANCER (June 21-July 22)

LIBRA (Sept. 23-Oct.22)

CAPRICORN (Dec. 22-Jan. 19)

Instead of waiting to start something new next year, do it now. Don’t wait to start that diet or take that incredible vacation someday. There is no time like the present. The only difference between Dec.1 and Jan. 1 is 31 days. You don’t need to wait around for the start of a new year to become who you’ve always wanted to be. Do it now and live better next year. Do it!

You’re heading off in the right direction. You don’t know what the next step is, but you’re looking forward to the journey. That’s definitely the right attitude. You can’t get to your destination without taking a first step—so you might as well enjoy it. In fact, when all is said and done, you’re likely to remember the journey with greater fondness than the destination. Go forth!

You can’t take all the blame, nor can you place it all upon the heads of others. If you wish that others would consider your perspective, first consider theirs. You are not the keeper of knowledge and wisdom. You are a fallible human being with as much capacity for greatness as failure. It all depends on perspective, so go outside and get some. See past yourself.

Your heart is in the right place. Is your head? You may feel a bit confused and that is understandable, but you can clear it up. Instead of making mountains out of mole hills, consider how you can live better. Stop worrying about how others live and start taking care of yourself. Your first duty is always to put the mask on before someone else beats you to it.

TAURUS (April 20-May 20)

LEO (July 23-Aug. 22)

SCORPIO (Oct. 23-Nov. 21)

AQUARIUS (Jan. 20-Feb. 18)

Have you considered taking a walk? If not, why not? There is nothing worse than being cooped up all day in an office or on the job without the opportunity to breathe some fresh air. Take a moment to revel in your life and accomplishments. What would you like to do next? If you’re looking to improve your life, this is the moment in time you need to discover your passion.

What are you waiting for? There’s nothing wrong with being happy in the moment and enjoying everything you have. Gratitude is the greatest measure of a life and you have it in abundance.

You don’t need to vilify the past or worry about others—you’re allowed to bask in the warmth of happiness. Take pride in your work. Don’t worry about a thing.

You’ve earned it.

You’ve organized and thought this through. You realize the next step is the most important. You can’t just keep leap frogging from one thing to the other. The key is progress. It’s important to finish projects as they come and grow with them. You DO NOT require perfection. But you do need the ability to motivate yourself when all hope seems to be gone. Do not falter. Get up!

You’re right that this is silly.

But you may not have a choice.

You can’t expect others to give themselves fully if you are only giving half. The world doesn’t honor cowards—it rewards heroes. It’s time to look deeply into your heart and ask what you really are. You may not need the praise of millions to have worth, but you at least require your own good opinion.

GEMINI (May 21-June 20)

VIRGO (Aug. 23-Sept. 22)

PISCES (Feb. 19-March 20)

So, you’re hoping for the best and expecting the worst. There’s nothing wrong with that. Many people consider that to be a realistic view point. Just don’t get bogged down. Failure is inevitable. You don’t need to beat yourself up. In fact, smile and take a bow. You tried, and that beats out everybody who didn’t.

Next time will be better no matter what!

You might be on the hunt for the next best thing and that’s great.

But what’s missing? If you’re looking for a purpose reflect on your childhood dreams. What inspires you? What makes you cry and weep with joy? What would you do for free? Instead of wishing for a time when you could reach out and touch the stars, just do it. Do it now! Show no fear, for you are a mighty warrior.

SAGITTARIUS (Nov. 22-Dec. 21)

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Friday December 1, 2017 • Gallup Sun

This is a strange and terrible land.

You feel you’re moving forward while falling down a cliff. This is to be expected. You have the right idea—it’s all turned upside down.

Instead of wallowing in self-pity now is the time for well thought out action. Take yourself seriously and others will. You must become who you want and this will require sacrifice. You can do it.

If at first you don’t succeed, try, try again. You might have missed the first part, but consider that this may not work as well on humans. If you notice a pattern in others, you might be the common factor. It might seem like the world is out to get you, but you might be throwing the first punch.

Stop and reflect. What do you really want in this world? Don’t be silly. Try again and again.

OPINIONS

Coach’s Korner: The prophecy of quitting (and how we overcome it), part one

By Greg McNeil

W

hen you hear the word prophecy, it is generally related to an event that is certain to happen. When the Navajo medicine man spoke on KGAK about Saros 145, the most recent 100-year solar eclipse that moved across the United States in August, he spoke of the coming events in the form of a prophecy. The prophecy of quitting is based on a similar idea, meaning that what has happened before is likely to continue happening in our lives until we take the necessary actions to change it.

However, in this case I would like to restrict the prophecy of quitting or giving up to the subject of health. If I should stray into something else, I ask your apologies in advance.

Let’s start with desire.

Most people are comfortable saying that they care about their health, and that they want to get into better shape and to lose weight. If you have ever been one of these people I would like you to listen to yourself say the phrase “I want to lose weight,” followed by the phrase “I will lose weight.” As you hear your words, notice that “I want” is a

phrase with weak energy and no real conviction. When you consider how often we say that we want something yet never seem to get what we want, this is most likely because we don’t feel strongly enough about the goal. When it comes to turning our health around, “I want” is a phrase that will leave us at the starting line every time.

To cha nge habits that consistently undermine your efforts to achieve goals related to health you need energy. I call this energy “desire.” Desire is

COACH’S KORNER | SEE PAGE 18

For each requester form completely filled out and returned, the Gallup Sun will donate 25 cents to Veterans Helping Veterans of Gallup. We need 3,500 filled out and returned to the Sun by Dec. 31.

IMPORTANT NOTICE FROM THE PUBLISHER Dear Readers, in order to keep the Gallup Sun a FREE publication, and to keep our United States Post Service Periodicals mailing privileges, we are kindly asking our readers to request the Gallup Sun. Your information will remain confidential, and will not be sold or used for commercial purposes.

We need all forms completed soon, so please take a moment to fill out the form and send it back.

Please share with friends and family living in the continental United States. Let’s keep the Gallup Sun free. There is no cost whatsoever to fill out this form. You will not be billed.

Thank you for your continued support.

Mail Completed Form To: Gallup Sun, PO Box 1212, Gallup, NM 87305 Fax: (505) 212-0391 • Email: gallupsun@gmail.com Office: 102 S. Second St., Gallup, NM 87301

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OPINIONS

Deb Haaland calls out Trump – AGAIN – over Pocahontas remarks Deb Haaland Democrat for Congress

A

LBUQUERQUE – On Nov.27, P resident Trump called Elizabeth Wa r ren “Pocahontas” at an event honoring Navajo Code Talkers at a White House Ceremony in front of a portrait of President Jackson, who led military attacks on Native Americans in the early 19th century.

Deb Haaland, who is running for NM-1 and would be the first Native American woman elected to Congress, released the following statement: “I can’t begin to express how angered I am by the display of ignorance in our White House today. Once again, the President has distilled Native Americans down to a single name - ‘Pocahontas’ - and all to score political points at a ceremony to honor Navajo Code Talkers, in front of a portrait of President Jackson.

The President’s actions disgrace the history of Pocahontas, Native Americans, Navajo Code Talkers and all Native American Veterans who served and died for this country. His actions not only show his complete disregard for Native Americans, but for all

Deb Haaland Americans of different racial backgrounds. Disrespectful and hateful speech like this only serves to signal and embolden white supremacist groups tearing this country apart.

And, he did this to attack progressive U.S. Senator Elizabeth Warren, who has taken on the President at every turn. It is not up to President Trump to determine who is Native, and who isn’t. When it comes to people of color, his disdain and disrespect has been loud and clear.

Senator Warren fights hard on behalf of ordinary people

DEB HAALAND | SEE PAGE 21

Gallup Sun • Friday December 1, 2017

15

COMMUNITY Gallup shoppers snag bargains on Black Friday SHOPPERS LESS IN QUANTITY, SPENDING MORE, OFFICIAL SAYS

By Bernie Dotson For the Sun

W

hile most people from around greater McKinley Cou nt y wer e s t i l l i n the k itchen prepa r ing Thanksgiving dinner at 2 pm on Nov.23, or perhaps getting up from the table after stuffing themselves silly with turkey, cranberry sauce and pumpkin pie, a brave few were lining up outside stores at Gallup’s Rio West Mall hoping to snag deals in Black Friday sales.

Ella Cree and her 14-year-old-daughter, Nicole, were the first in line outside JCPenny at Rio West, arriving at around 1 pm. JCPenney didn’t open until 6 am Friday morning, but getting there early is part of the holiday hysteria that the Crees have come to like, they said.

JCPenney opened at 2 pm on Thanksgiving and closed at midnight.

“There seemed to be less shoppers, but they appeared to be spending more,” Cindy Mort, general manager at JCPenney, said. “I don’t think there were as many people as there were last year.”

Generally, Mort said shoppers mostly bought home products and clothing.

Ditto at Bealls, also located at Rio West Mall. There, store manager Marriah Silversmith said clothing was the deal of the day.

“I think people bought a lot of clothing and a lot of fragrances, especially the women,” Silversmith said. We had [Nike] clothing on sale. We also had some fragrances on sale.”

Shoppers at JCPenny on Black Friday mostly took home clothing and fragrances, a store manager said. Photo Credit: Knifewing Segura

BLACK FRIDAY DEALS A single parent, Ella said she was shopping for clothing and home appliances that she and her family needed.

The deal the Crees were after: A coffee maker and women’s clothing for under $100 with the use of store coupons.

The next people in line, Diana and Andy Garcia, a newly married couple from Gallup, were also angling for the clothing and home appliance deals.

“We definitely need stuff for the home,”

Diana Garcia said.

Most of the parking lot at Rio West Mall along West Maloney Boulevard was full late Thursday afternoon and through early Friday morning. Not only was JCPenney bustling with shoppers, but Bealls was busy, too.

“I’m shopping for my whole family,” Keith Thomas, a tourist from Taos, said.

“I try to shop in different cities in New Mexico each year.”

T he Wa sh i n g t on , D.C.- ba s e d National Retail Federation released

Kids come get your toys

SANTA TO MAKE EARLY TRIP FOR KIDS IN NEED Toys for Tots McKinley County

M

cK i n ley Cou nt y To y s f o r To t s welcomes a ll McKinley County children to the Larry Brian Mitchell Center, Located at 700 Montoya Boulevard in Gallup.

Dec. 17, from 10 am – 3 pm ONLY. Toys for Tots – McKinley County Chapter will distribute toys to boys and girls ages

16

one to 10 years old.

Parents and or Gua rd ia ns: for you r ch i ld to be eligible plea se br ing a nd pr ov id e a p r o o f o f residence with a physical address in McKinley County

Friday December 1, 2017 • Gallup Sun

(ex: utility bill, insurance, letter from your school stating residence, etc.). Thank you i n a d v a nce for you r participation.

Toys for Tots – McKinley County Chapter

a survey a week before Thanksgiving which showed that 54 percent of consumers planned to spend about the same amount this Christmas as opposed to last, but 24 percent planned to spend more.

According to a Nov. 28 news release, the NRF stated that from Thanksgiving Day through Cyber Monday, more than 174 million Americans shopped in stores and online during the past weekend.

The average spending per person was $335, according to the release.

POLICE ACTIVITY | FROM PAGE 12 two men and a woman “came up behind her and kicked her down,” according to the police report. The suspects punched, kicked and robbed her, taking with them a 12- inch gold colored necklace, a gold collared bracelet, a watch and her baseball cap.

The victim told Gallup Police Department officers that she saw the thieves walking southbound. GPD Officer Steven Peshlakai then located Marlon Johnson, 27, Linda Ann Keith, 36, and Fred Jesse, 33, who had items in their possession matching the victim’s descriptions.

The victim saw Johnson, Keith and Jesse outside of the

police station, and confirmed that they were her attackers, according to the police report.

The three suspects were then placed under arrest for robbery and tampering with evidence.

PEDESTRIAN VS VEHICLE T he ma n k i l led wh i le attempting to cross U.S. 491 on Nov. 21, has been identified as Reuben Begay, 65, of Fort Defiance, Ariz. GPD Capt.

Marinda Spencer said the driver that struck Begay cooperated with police, and did not appear to be impaired in any way.

The man was struck in the northbound lanes on 491, near the intersection of Coal Basin Road.

COMMUNITY

Winter Spanish Market showcases traditional arts in Albuquerque Staff Reports

A

Artwork by Hunter Lawson, 11. Photo Credit: Spanish Colonial Arts Society

L BUQU ERQU E – T he Spa n ish Colon ia l A r t s Society’s Winter Spanish Market returns to A lbuquerque for the fifth successive year on Dec. 2 and Dec. 3. This year the NHCC campus will host the event. Founded in Santa Fe in 1988, this will be the Winter Market’s 29th year since it emerged as an offshoot from the original Spanish Market, which takes place in Santa Fe every summer.

This year’s Winter Market will bring 70 artists to Albuquerque, giving members of the general public and collectors alike an opportunity to make early holiday purchases while keeping away from the big box store madness after Thanksgiving. This event shoppers the opportunity to buy a piece of New Mexico history, as the traditional techniques and

Franck Garcia showcases his fine art at the 2016 Winter Market. Photo Credit: Spanish Arts Colonial Society imagery that Spanish Market Artists use link them directly in a lineage and tradition that goes back over 400

SPANISH MARKET | SEE PAGE 18

Police participate in Thanksgiving CARE operation Staff Reports

D

u r i n g t h e Thanksgiving holiday, the New Mexico State Pol ice pa rticipated in the Combined Accident Reduction Effort (CARE) operation across all roadways within the state.

The traffic initiative began with the belief that a strong law enforcement presence will have a direct effect on the driving behaviors of motorists during the holiday weekend, thus reducing the number of crashes and increasing motorist safety.

The NMSP prov ided a n increased patrol presence during this initiative on roadways throughout all State Pol ice d i st r ict s. Becau se of the increased volume of traffic during the holiday, the

NMSP conducted high intensity traffic operations state wide on the busiest travel days of the Tha nksgiv ing w e e k e n d , f r o m No v. 2 2 through Nov. 26.

Operations over the holiday resulted in State Police officers issuing about 4,500 traffic citations (273 citations were for lack of seat belt usage) and arresting 51 drunk drivers state wide. Officers handled a total of 52 crashes, 2 being fatal crashes, and made 54 arrests due to drug related crimes.

T he Com merci a l Veh icle Enforcement Bureau issued approximately 195 commercial vehicle citations and conducted over 548 commercial vehicle inspections.

The safety of motorists is a top priority of the New Mexico State Police and officers will continue holiday

travel operations throughout the upcoming winter season.

Police encourage the public to drive safely and obey all laws

while traveling the motorways of New Mexico.

It is with great sadness, that our family announces the quiet passing of our sweet, classy, gentle wife, mother, and Mormor.

Gayla Glascock Crossman She grew up in Gallup, New Mexico. Ever the lover of learning, she graduated valedictorian of her high school. She was a ballerina for over 50 years and danced in Utah, New York and traveled with a dance company.

Deciding she did not want to pursue that permanently, she got her Bachelor's degree from the University of New Mexico. While working on her Master's, she met the love of her life and best friend, husband, Harlan. They married in 1964, and raised their two children, Avery and Monica in Phoenix.

She lovingly welcomed son-in-law, Stig, to the family and was overjoyed when her grand-children Erlend and Emilia were born. Gayla loved playing with her dogs, gardening, and reading. She traveled the world with her husband and often remarked at how lucky she was.

Given how much she loved animals, donations can be made to Home Fur Good Animal Rescue, 10220 N. 32nd St., Phoenix, AZ 85028.

She will be forever loved and forever missed.

NMSP issued about 4,500 traffic citations over the holiday weekend. Photo Credit: Courtesy of the New Mexico State Police COMMUNITY

Arrangements by Sinai Mortuary.

Gallup Sun • Friday December 1, 2017

17

The booth of artisan Charlie Carrillo at Winter Market 2016. Photo Credit: Spanish Arts Colonial Society

SPANISH MARKET | FROM PAGE 17 years.

A long w it h t ra d it iona l Nat ive A r t , t ra d it iona l Spanish Colonial Art is one of New Mexico’s unique cultural treasures, revered and collected by the cognoscenti and by members of the general public all over the world.

A l l t rad itiona l Spa n ish Colonia l styles a re repre sent ed, i nclud i ng bu lt os,

weaving, ironwork, jewelry, hide painting, retablos, furniture, tinwork, straw appliqué and colcha embroidery.

A specia l categor y for innovations within tradition, which will also be included, was introduced several years ago to allow artists and artisans an opportunity to think outside of the box and create works of art using non-traditional imagery and techniques.

The Winter Spa nish Market opens on Dec. 2 at

Mel Rivera stands in front the unique crosses that he crafted and displayed at last year’s Winter Market.

Photo Credit: Spanish Arts Colonial Society

9 am and continues through 5 p m . E nj o y t h e N H C C Museum’s opening of The Art of Christmas: New Mexico Style, featuring the Duran Family Christmas Tree with original ornaments by 125 New Mexican artists, many of whom are participating in the Winter Spanish Market.

The market reopens on Dec. 3 at 9 am and will close at 4 pm. T h roug hout t he market, there will be musicia n s a nd per for mer s on

stage entertaining the audience with New Mexican Folk music and dance. In addition, see the a r tist demonstrations, lectures and book signings and enjoy New Mexican cuisine at Pop Fizz and/or La Fonda del Bosque. Tickets for the weekend are $6 for an individual and $10 for two people.

The market owes a great debt of gratitude to their pa r tners at the NHCC for t hei r help i n put t i n g on

this year’s Winter Spanish Market.

T he ma rket t ha n k s it s major sponsors: the County of Ber na l i l lo; t he Cit y of Albuquerque; the Hispanic Heritage Committee; Hutton Broadcasting/SantaFe.com; KUNM 89.9; KRQE; KSW V 810; KANW 89.1 and the New Mex ico A r t s. For f u r t her information or tickets, please call the Spanish Colonial Arts Society at (505) 982-2226, or go to spanishcolonial.org.

COACH’S KORNER | FROM PAGE 15

but usually takes the form of obstacles or challenges. But make no mistake; stress is a tool of the universe, a way of testing and proving how strongly you feel about your desire to change and achieve goals in life.

Overcoming the prophecy of quitting in our lives requires a step-by-step process. The first step is getting a clear picture in your mind of what you would like to achieve. Once you get a clear picture, the next step is to determine how strongly you feel about it. The strength of feeling we call desire. If your desire for the goal is weak don’t go any further because you will not have the strength to succeed. If your desire is strong then you are ready for the next step. We will discuss the next step to success in part two.

Remember, we get what we think about most of the time.

Coach G G reg McNeil is a S t r o n g F i r s t In s t r u c t o r, P rofe ssion a l Stre n gth & Conditioning coach, Licensed Clinical Counselor (LPCC), Life Coa ch, Auth or, an d the owner of Gallup School of Strength (www.gallupschoolofstrength.com)

a form of faith, a truthsayer’s drug that allows you to confront the words and thoughts you have concerning the things you would like to achieve. You see, there is one truth that is universal across the planet and that is, YOU GET WHAT YOU THINK ABOUT MOST OF THE TIME. There is no right or wrong here, it is simply about desire. If getting healthy is a strong desire in your mind you will think about improving your health and these thoughts will manifest in the actions you take to do so.

If health is not important to you, stop right here.

You don’t need to go any further because everything you do will ref lect that health is not the priority for you.

Remember, this too is okay.

Everyone has a path in life.

If health is a priority for you, understand that desire is the tool that will help you navigate and combat the inevitable stressors that will occur in your life.

To be clear, no habit is changed, or supreme goal achieved, without having to confront stress.

Stress can take endless forms

18

Friday December 1, 2017 • Gallup Sun

COMMUNITY

‘Three Billboards’ is a thoughtful, gripping character study RATING: ««« OUT OF «««« RUNNING TIME: 115 MIN.

By Glenn Kay For the Sun

M

ar tin McDonagh su re ha s a way w it h word s. I n fact, his previous features In Bruges and Seven Psychopaths are well known for their sharp and incisive dialogue and deeply flawed characters. Three Billboards outside Ebbing, Missouri is no exception, boasting an incredible cast at the top of their game and a mean but thoughtful script dealing with grief and anger.

Mildred (Frances McDormand) is a grieving mother whose child was raped and murdered by an unknown assailant. Frustrated at the lack of progress in the case by law enforcement, she buys a trio of billboards and posts a pointed question on each of them in large lettering to Chief Willoughby (Woody Harrelson).

His staff, including a violent and racist cop named Dixon (Sam Rockwell), are none too pleased about the message.

This leads to increasing tension and conflict between the woman and authorities.

The performances are uniformly excellent here, with each character distinctive and memorable. McDormand is certainly worthy of accolades as the frustrated and angry mother. Her blunt and direct comments cut through the hypocrisy present in the town and allow the film to deal with some of the small town’s backwards ways. Harrelson is also excellent as the grouchy chief who ultimately isn’t quite as mean as he initially appears.

And Rockwell stands out as a despicable deputy forced to come to hard realizations about his own flawed character. Portraying a person with horrid traits that viewers are supposed to eventually feel sympathy for is a remarkably difficult task, but the actor pulls it off.

The cast is rounded out by stellar supporting turns f rom fa m i l i a r fa ce s l i ke Peter Di nk lage a nd Joh n Hawkes (among many others). Thankfully, there’s a dark sense of humor running through the piece, which helps to add a bit of levity to the extremely grim material.

There are plenty of great interactions between the baffled cops and other citizens as they attempt to get to the bottom of the billboard issue and catch up with what is going on. It is incredibly harsh and

Frances McDormand plays the grieving mother in Martin McDonagh’s newest drama. Now playing. Photo Credit: Fox Searchlight foul at times, but the unique phrasing and delivery is part of what makes the material so compelling.

Viewers should be warned that this isn’t a murder-myster y and the ultimate outcome of events related to the crime aren’t as essential as the personal development and growth of the characters.

The movie doesn’t give any easy answers to the questions raised and ultimately appears to promote the importance of forgiveness, understanding and positive change (that is, in between the questionable behavior and actions of its leads).

While it certainly won’t be for everyone, this reviewer was

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Gallup Sun • Friday December 1, 2017

19

DVD/Blu-ray Roundup for Dec. 1, 2017

By Glenn Kay For the Sun

W

elcome back to another look at the highlights arriving on Blu-ray and DVD. It’s a slightly smaller edition, but there are still plenty of interesting releases coming your way. So if you can’t make it to the movies this week, be sure to give one of these titles a try!

BIG NEW RELEASES! Act s of Vengeance This action/ drama tells t he t a le of a lawyer whose wife and daughter a r e k i l le d .

Yearning for revenge, he starts muscling up and then takes a vow of silence until he can find those responsible. Hmm… that might make tracking the bad guys a whole lot tougher. Reaction to this independent Death Wishlike feature was mixed. About half thought it delivered its B-movie thrills and benefited from its likable leading man.

The others suggested that it was too much of a perfunctory exercise and that the filmmakers didn’t do enough to distinguish this film from others of its ilk. The movie stars Antonio Banderas, Karl Urban, Paz Vega and Robert Forster.

L og a n Lucky Director S t e v e n Soderbergh e a r n e d plenty of success with his Ocean’s E l e v e n remake and its sequels. This feature takes the same structure and applies it to some countr y boys who decide to plan a massive heist at a NASCAR event. As the race approaches, time runs short for the quirky team to pull off their elaborate scheme without making mistakes. The flick earned excellent reviews from the press. Writers complimented the movie’s excellent cast, zippy pace and sense of fun.

It features Channing Tatum, Adam Driver, Daniel Craig,

Riley Keough, Katie Holmes, Seth MacFarlane, Katherine Waterston, Sebastian Stan and Hilary Swank.

Lost in Paris - In this foreign-language comedy, a meek F rench Canadian librarian is called out to visit and help her elderly aunt in Paris. After the lead loses her travel documents and money she learns that her older relative is being shipped off unwillingly to a retirement home. Desperate, the pair go “on the run” and try to survive, befriending a homeless man in the process.

Reaction to this gallic comedy was very positive, with most critics wholeheartedly recommending it. They called it a very quirky but charming independent feature that includes some great physical comedy.

The cast includes Dominique Abel and Emmanuelle Riva.

Rememory - A scientist on the verge of a great discovery is suddenly murdered in this thriller. It is learned that the man had just devised a device that records, extracts a nd plays memories from a person’s brain. Another character soon arrives, stealing the machine in an attempt to solve the cr ime a nd apprehend the killer. Reviewers didn’t feel that this thriller made much of an impression. A few complimented the work of the actors, but most believed that the film wasn’t as dramatically involving as it should have been and ended up being a slow-moving and creaky exercise. It stars Peter Dinklage, Julia Ormond, Martin Donovan and Anton Yelchin.

T u l i p Fever - This drama, set in A msterda m du r i n g t he 17th century, involves a young woman from a financially troubled family who is assigned a wealthy husband. After the marriage, the new bride finds

20 Friday December 1, 2017 • Gallup Sun

herself trapped and yearning for a different life. She begins an affair with a painter and then decides to invest in the burgeoning tulip bulb market, hoping that financial success will allow her to escape her mean hubby. Reaction was not positive towards the feature.

Almost all called the flick a beautifully shot effort with a silly plotline and no onscreen chemistry between its characters. It features Alicia Vikander, Da ne DeHa a n, Ch r istoph Waltz, Holliday Grainger, Judi Dench and (strangely enough) Zach Galifianakis.

BLASTS FROM THE PAST! Olive Signature has two notable Blu-rays arriving this week. They’re both comedies starring Cary Grant that are set during WWII... Father Goose (1964) and Operation Petticoat (1959). The latter involves the exploits of two very different captains assigned to sail a beaten and banged up submarine through the Pacific after the war breaks out. Along the way, the pair get themselves and their crew into numerous humorous situations and end up hosting a group of attractive nurses as passengers.

While most will find it dated, the movie was considered risqué in its day because of the sexual innuendo. It actually led to huge box office returns.

The release includes a new high definition restoration and loads of extras that include an informative film critic commentary and numerous featurettes with the cast and footage.

T h e succe s s of Operation Petticoat spawned F a t h e r G o o s e , in which Grant plays a g rouchy loner assigned to live on a tropical island alone and spy on enemy planes during the war.

Problems arise when a pretty schoolteacher and her students are found and stranded with him. Not only must he care for his new guests, but he also has to find a way to perform his job. It was a hit as well, although not quite as big a smash as Petticoat. Still, some film enthusiasts actually prefer

this title to its predecessor.

Shout! Factory is delivering a “Collector’s Edition” Blu-ray of the Oscar-winning horror hit, Misery (1990). Based on the Stephen King novel, the story involves a writer who crashes his car during a snowstorm. Incapacitated with broken legs, he discovers that his rescuer is not only his biggest fan, but also mentally unstable. Besides being restored and upgraded in 4K, the disc includes a new interview with director Rob Reiner and make up artist Greg Nicotero. It also por ts over ever y previous extra from other releases of the film, including two commentary tracks, seven featurettes with cast and crew, as well as promotional materials.

If you haven’t seen it, this is a great flick well worth catching up with.

Deathdream aka Dead of Night (1974) is another good Blu-ray a r r iv i ng cou r tesy of Blue Underground. This low-budget, drive-in horror f lick comes from director Bob Cla rk ( B l a c k C hr istma s, Po r ky’s, A Chr istmas S t o r y) a nd fol lows a you n g V ie t Nam veteran who returns home to his fa mily in a stra nge, withd r aw n a nd pa i ned s t at e, refusing to talk about his experiences. It soon becomes clear that the lead is undead and must feed on the blood of the liv ing to keep from rotting. His mother takes it upon herself to try and help her son while relationships w ithin the cla n a nd commu nit y begin to cr umble.

Con sider i ng how sma l l a

production it was, the film works very well and uses its set-up as a thematic device to make strong and powerful comments about the impact that war can have on families. This release includes an incredible amount of extras i nclud i n g mu lt iple aud io commenta r ies, inter v iews with cast and crew and even a shor t student f ilm from writer Alan Ormsby.

Kino is putting out some interesting Blu-rays as well.

They include the James Mason crime flick, Cop-Out (1967) and the stylized Italian/French thriller, Death Laid an Egg (1968). They also have the cop film, The High Commissioner aka Nobody Runs Forever (1968). The distributor also has a pair of comedies coming your way in high definition. There’s The Woman in Red (1984) with Gene Wilder as a married man obsessed with a woman he passes on the street. Finally, there’s The Wrong Guy (1997), which features Dave Foley as a man who is blamed for his boss’s murder. To prove himself innocent, he goes on the run and earns the friendship and assistance of a local woman suffering from narcolepsy.

YOU KNOW, FOR KIDS! Sadly, it’s a bit of a slow week for kid’s titles.

ON THE TUBE! A n d here are the limi t e d T V- t he me d relea ses.

Eastsiders: Season 3 Gilmore Girls - A Year in the Life: Season 1

Check out our FREE access community website! www.gallupsun.com COMMUNITY

Gallup Christmas Tree lighting brings holiday cheer

BY KNIFEWING SEGURA

The Gallup Parks Department decorates Courthouse Square with Santa and his sleigh. Photo Credit: Knifewing Segura

DEB HAALAND | FROM PAGE 15 – speaking truth to power every day. When Donald Trump insults her, he’s disrespecting all Americans. He’s targeting her because she’s so effective taking on big banks, heartless corporations and big-money Republicans. Warren will persist and so will I.

This isn’t the first time I’ve taken on Trump, and it won’t be the last. Join my campaign for Congress today so I can keep fighting for Native Americans to be heard and respected.”

Deb spoke out on this issue in 2016, the articles can be found on indiancountrymedianetwork. com and nytimes.com. #### Deb Haaland is

running for New Mexico’s First Congressional District seat, and would be the first Native American woman elected to U.S. Congress. As the first Native American woman to chair a state party, Deb led New Mexico Democrats in 2016 to flip its State House from red to blue, expand the Democratic majority in the Senate, elect a Democrat Secretary of State, and hand

Christmas Corner Ad Special Wish your customers a happy holiday and New Year! And get some new ones in the door!

The Gallup Sun is selling the upper, outside corner spaces in it’s Dec. 22 issue for $45 + tax Deadline: Dec. 20 Call: (505) 722-8994 or (505) 728-1640 * Email: gallupsun@gmail.com

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The McKinley County Courthouse Square Christmas Tree lighting took place Nov. 25. Photo Credit: Knifewing Segura a decisive victory to Hillary Clinton over Donald Trump.

Deb is an enrolled member of the Pueblo of Laguna, and was the first woman elected to Chair the Laguna Development Corporation Board of Directors.

She is a UNM Law School graduate and single mom to Somah, who recently graduated from UNM with a BA in Theater.

Learn more about Deb and her campaign at DebforCongress.com.

EXECUTIVE TEAM | FROM PAGE 5

from MSU in Baroda, India.

Deputy Chief of Staff: Justine Freeman, MA Freeman ser ved a s Deputy Chief of Staff for t h e O f f ic e of the State Auditor for the past three years. Prior to joining the OSA, she served as a leadership analyst at the New Mexico State Legislature.

Freeman was raised in New Mexico and went on to earn a Bachelor of Arts degree in political, legal and economic analysis from Mills College and a Master of Arts degree in international relations from San Francisco State University.

Before returning to New Mexico, she worked in the field of international relations, specializing in gender equality efforts with Human Rights Watch in San Francisco, CA and Paris, France; and CARE USA, USAID, and the American Red Cross in Washington, D.C.

and became an Audit Manager in 2011. Prior to joining the State Government, Bhakta had a diverse career in the private sector in India, Nigeria and USA. Bhakta moved to the United States in 1988 and worked as the Import Manager for a women’s wear company in New York from 1988 to 1990. He then became the Managing Partner of his family’s business of developing hospitality and food services outlets in New Jersey and spent 14 years in that business prior to moving to New Mexico in 2004.

Bhakta is a Certified Public Accountant (CPA), Certified Gover nment Fina ncial Manager (CGFM), Certified Fraud Examiner (CFE) and Chartered Global Management Accountant (CGMA). Bhakta r e c e i v e d h i s b a c h e lo r ’s degree in advanced accounting & auditing from SPU in Vidyanagar, India and master’s degree in managerial accounting & international banking

Gallup Sun • Friday December 1, 2017

21

GALLUP SUN ARCHIVES Need a past issue? $1.50 per copy. Note issue date and send check or M.O. to: Gallup Sun, PO Box 1212, Gallup, NM 87305. Subject to availability.

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Double Wide $260/mo. Call Mike 505-870-3430 or Carmelita 505-870-4095.

LEGAL/PUBLIC NOTICES NOTICE OF ORDINANCE PASSAGE

BY TITLE AND SUMMARY ORDINANCE NO. S2017-6 PUBLIC NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that the governing body of the City of Gallup, New Mexico, at its regular meeting of November 14, 2017 passed, adopted and approved the following entitled Ordinance: AN ORDINANCE OF THE CITY OF GALLUP, NEW MEXICO GRANTING TO SACRED WIND TELESOLUTIONS A NON-EXCLUSIVE FRANCHISE TO PROVIDE TELECOMMUNICATIONS WITHIN THE CITY OF GALLUP The purpose and subject matter of the Ordinance is contained in the title. A complete

copy of the Ordinance is on file in the Office of the City Clerk, City Hall.

CITY OF GALLUP, NEW MEXICO By: /s/ Alfred Abeita II, City Clerk PUBLISH:

CLASSIFIEDS de-sac is located east of Jay Street between Marcella Circle and Clay Avenue; further described as Lots 7-A thru Lots 14-A, Block 2, Rocky View Subdivision Unit #2.

Friday, December 1, 2017 *** LEGAL NOTICE PUBLIC NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that the City of Gallup Planning and Zoning Commission will consider the following action at its regular meeting to be held on Wednesday, December 13th, 2017.

Item Two will go before the City Council for final approval at its regular meeting to be held on Tuesday, January 9, 2018. Both meetings will be held at 6:00 p.m. in the Council Chambers of City Hall located on the corner of South Second Street and West Aztec Avenue.

ITEM ONE: CASE # 1701100004: Request by Hannah Sehn, property owner, appealing an Administrative Decision requiring a twenty feet (20’) front yard setback in a Single Family Residential Zoning District (RS-2), as required by section 10-4B-1:D.1 of the City of Gallup Land Development Standards. The property is located at 318 Valentina Drive; more particularly described as Lot 12, Block 8, Zecca Height Addition.

ITEM TWO: CASE # 1701100005: Request by Chris Muniz to rename McBride Circle to Lisa Circle. The cul-

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ITEM THREE: CASE # 17-01100006: Annual Open Meetings Act, Resolution # RP2017-16. The Open Meetings Act requires that the Planning and Zoning Commission (at least) annually review what constitutes reasonable notice to the public of its meetings.

Accordingly, the resolution is presented to the Board for consideration and approval.

ITEM FOUR: Nomination and Election of new Vice-Chairperson Auxiliary aides for the disabled are available upon request.

Please contact C.B. Strain at (505) 863-1244, at least one (1) week prior to the meeting or as soon as possible in advance of the meeting to make any necessary arrangements.

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EMAIL: GALLUPSUN@GMAIL.COM DUE: TUESDAYS 5 PM City Hall, 110 West Aztec Avenue, Gallup, New Mexico; to consider final approval of the following entitled Ordinance: An ordinance amending portions of the gallup-metro animal ordinance of the municipal code of the city of gallup relating to the definition of qualified assistance animal, seizing and impounding animals, and forbidding ownership or possession of pot-bellied pigs.

City of Gallup, McKinley County, New Mexico

The purpose and subject matter of the Ordinance is contained in the title. A draft copy of the Ordinance is on file in the Office of the City Clerk, City Hall.

By: /S/ Alfred Abeita, City Clerk

CITY OF GALLUP, NEW MEXICO

PUBLISH: 1 December 2017

By: /s/ Alfred Abeita II, City Clerk

All interested parties are invited to attend.

*** LEGAL NOTICE PUBLIC NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that a meeting of the governing body of the City of Gallup, New Mexico will take place on Tuesday, December 12, 2017 at 6:00 p.m. in the Council Chambers at Gallup

PUBLISH: Friday, December 1, 2017

Tuesday, January 9, 2018 in the Council Chambers of Gallup City Hall, 110 West Aztec Avenue; Gallup, New Mexico, the Governing Body of the City of Gallup will hold a Public Hearing on the proposed Transfer of Ownership and Location of Existing License #0572 from Itah Rashid, Personal Representative of Jim Rashid d/b/a El Dorado Restaurant & Lounge, 1805 West Highway 66, Gallup, New Mexico to Allsup’s Convenience Stores, Inc. d/b/a Allsup’s 222, 112 Arnold Street, Gallup, New Mexico.

The Director of the Alcohol and Gaming Division has granted preliminary approval for this Application.

CITY OF GALLUP, NEW MEXICO By: /s/ Alfred Abeita II, City Clerk PUBLISH: Friday, December 8, 2017 Friday, January 5, 2018

*** LEGAL NOTICE

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22 Friday December 1, 2017 • Gallup Sun

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COMMUNITY CALENDAR DEC.1-7, 2017 FRIDAY, Dec. 1 HOWL-I-DAY GIVE BACK TOUR Support Hershey Miyamura's scholarship fund.

Drop off new toys for Toys for Tots and meet USMC Mascot Colonel Jack. Comfort Suites, Gallup. 5-7 pm.

RED ROCK BALLOON RALLY 9 am-6 pm @ Children’s Branch. Join us during the Red Rock Balloon Rally for a collaborative art project with colorful results. Free.

CHRISTMAS TREE LIGHTING Join us for a Community Christmas Tree lighting event, 6 pm. Tuba City Bashas’ Parking lot.

GET UP AND GAME 4-5 pm @ Children’s Branch. Get moving with these fun and active Kinect video games. Free.

SATURDAY, Dec. 2 RED ROCK BALLOON RALLY 9 am-6 pm @ Children’s Branch.

Join us during the Red Rock Balloon Rally for a collaborative art project with colorful results. Free.

COMMUNITY CHRISTMAS PARADE The City of Gallup and The Gallup-McKinley County Chamber of Commerce will be hosting the Community Christmas Parade. Begins: 1 pm. Route: starting on the corner of 6th St. and Aztec Ave. Santa will be there.

Call (505) 722-2228.

SUNDAY, Dec. 3 RED ROCK BALLOON RALLY 9 am-6 pm @ Children’s Branch. Join us during the Red Rock Balloon Rally for a collaborative art project with colorful results. Free.

MONDAY, Dec. 4 CITY OF GALLUP’S SUSTAINABLE GALLUP BOARD Meets on the first Monday from 3-5 pm at the Octavia Fellin Library. When those Mondays are holidays, the meetings are on the following Monday. Community members concerned CALENDAR

about conservation, energy, water, recycling and other environmental issues are welcome. Call (505) 7220039 for information.

TUESDAY, Dec. 5 GMCS Para Educators Test, 8:30 am-12 pm. SSC Training Lab. MAKER ZONE (6 AND OLDER) 4-5 pm @ Children’s Branch. We provide supplies, you supply the ideas.

WEDNESDAY, Dec. 6 TODDLER TIME (AGES 2 TO 4) 10:30-11:30 am @ Children’s Branch. An active and energetic program for toddlers, featuring music, movement, rhymes, and stories.

WEDNESDAY NIGHT FILMS 5:30-7 pm @ Main Branch.

Free weekly movie. Popcorn provided. This week’s movie: TBD THURSDAY, Dec. 7 UNM-GALLUP UNM-Gallup will host “New Student Orientation.” 2 pm in room SSTC 200.

HOLIDAY IN NEW MEXICO Join us for Holiday in New Mexico. 5-8 pm @ Gurley Hall.

CRAFTY KIDS (ALL AGES) 4-5 pm @ Children’s Branch. Fun crafts for the whole family. This week’s activity: TBD ONGOING CO-DEPENDENTS ANONYMOUS Meets Wednesday, 6-7 pm, at First United Methodist Church, 1800 Redrock Dr. (in the library). All are welcome.

COMMUNITY PANTRY The Hope Garden offers organic produce for sale from 10 am-noon, Tue-Fri., 1130 E. Hassler Valley Road. All funds go to helping feed local folks. Call (505) 7268068 or when visiting, ask for Vernon Garcia.

FRIDAY NIGHT HOOTENANNY Gallup’s longest-running live show! Every Friday night from 7-9 pm. Camille’s Sidewalk Cafe, 306 S. Second St. GALLUP-MCKINLEY COUNTY HUMANE SOCIETY Wednesdays are low-cost Spay and Neuter Days at the Gallup-McKinley Coun-

CALENDAR

ty Humane Society. For more information, please call (505) 863-2616, or email: gmchumanesociety@ gmail.com. Location: 1315 Hamilton Rd. GALLUP SOLAR Gallup Solar is hosting community conversations about all things solar.

Wednesdays from 6-8 pm at 113 E. Logan. Call: (505) 728-9246 for info on topics and directions.

HABITAT FOR HUMANITY Habitat for Humanity yard sales are held every Saturday, 9 am-noon on Warehouse Lane, weather permitting. Volunteers wishing to serve on construction projects may sign up there or call (505) 722-4226.

HABITAT FOR HUMANITY - WORK SESSIONS Habitat for Humanity work sessions held each week.

Volunteers to serve on decision making meetings or wish to volunteer at or help fund construction projects. Call Bill Bright at (505) 722-4226.

MCKINLEY COUNTY HEALTH ALLIANCE McKinley County Health Alliance convenes on the second Wednesday of the month from 11 am-1 pm at the New Mexico Cancer Center across from UNM-Gallup. Everyone is welcome to attend and engage in discussions about health, education, economic, and environmental inequities and to help facilitate change in those systems.

Call (505) 906-2671.

OVEREATERS ANONYMOUS Overeaters Anonymous 12step meetings. Held every Saturday at 10 am. The First Methodist Church, 1800 Red Rock Drive. Open to anybody who has a desire to stop compulsive eating. Contact info: (505) 307-5999, (505) 721-9208, or (505) 870-1483.

RECYCLING COUNCIL McKinley Citizens Recycling Council is a local nonprofit working to increase recycling through education, community out-

reach, and partnership with local government agencies.

MCRC meets the first Saturday of the month at 2 pm, at Red Mesa on Hill St. For more information, please call (505) 722-5142 or visit Recylegallup.org.

SUPPORT EARLY LANGUAGE AND LITERACY FOR SCHOOL SUCCESS! Gallup McKinley County Schools is currently recruiting pregnant women and teens in McKinley County with children from birth to 5 years of age. There are no income guidelines and services are free to ALL community members.

Learn more about this opportunity by contacting BeBe Sarmiento at (505) 721-1055.

TEDDY BEAR DRIVE We are collecting NEW stuffed animals to donate to hospitals, police and fire departments for children in need. Donation locations: Navajo Treatment Center for Children and Their Families Admin. Bldg. #2, second floor Division of Social Services in Window Rock, Az; Navajo Treatment Center for Children and Their Families Kit Carson Rd, Fort Defiance, Az. Call (928) 871-6807 or email t.yazzie@navajo-nsn.gov.

SAVE THE DATE ARTSCRAWL: FIRED UP On Dec. 9 ArtsCrawl will be turning up the heat. Chili lovers get in the Christmas spirit and help choose who makes the best red or green. Feel the fire in your belly another way by following the lead of cheerleaders and marching in our Parade of Lights: 7-9 pm, Downtown Gallup.

GMCS CRAFT FAIR On Dec. 9, come to the largest craft fair in Gallup. Red Rock Elementary @ 9 am-4 pm. Table space is $20.

Contact Red Rock Elementary for registration (505) 721-3900.

COMMUNITY EDUCATION DIALOGUE On Dec. 9, join us for “Community Education Dialogue.” Social Studies teachers and members of the public are encouraged

to attend. 9 am-12 pm @ GMCS Board Room. Lunch provided. RSVP to Natalie Martinez natliecmtz@gmail. com TAIZE ADVENT CANDELIGHT On Dec. 10, a Taize Advent candlelight service will take place at 4 pm. The theme of “Joyous Expectation” will be explored through music, chant, prayer, quiet time, Scripture and readings.

Please join us. Location: 151 State Hwy. 564 (Boardman Drive near Orleans Manor Apartments). Call (505) 870-6136.

GMCS PARENT SYMPOSIUM Join GMCS for CMMS-Social Media and Cyber Bullying. The Parent Symposium will help educate parents on important issues to middle school kids. 6 pm @ Chief Manuelito Middle School. Refreshments served.

BENEFIT CONCERT On Dec. 15, join “On Call Jazz” as they play the annual Christmas benefit concert for Thai Burma Border Health Initiative. Enjoy an evening of Christmas jazz favorites. 7-9 pm, upstairs at the Gallup Cultural Center at the Gallup train station. Donations are appreciated and 100 percent of the proceeds directly benefit refugees on the Thai-Burma border: www. tbbhi.org. Contact Tammy Iralu (505)726-7206.

MONTHLY MEETING 6:30 pm @ Northside Senior Center. We invite you to meet with Councilor Linda Garcia at the Northside Neighborhood Association meeting.

Councilor Linda Garcia will be there to listen to your concerns. It’s a great opportunity to share ideas and welcome your compliments and complaints. Feel free to bring a friend or two. Call (505) 879-4176. Location: 607 N. 4th St. To post a nonprofit or civic event in the calendar section, please email: gallupsunevents@gmail.com or fax: (505) 212-0391. Deadline: Monday at 5 pm.

Gallup Sun • Friday December 1, 2017

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16 Associate’s Degrees - 13 Certificate Programs

Holiday in New Mexico Luminarias - Food - Music - Games - Santa Claus - Children’s Activities

by Luminarias - Food - Music - Hot Air Balloon Games - Santa Claus - Children’s Activities

www.gallup.unm.edu Stay Connected

Thursday, December 7th, 2017 5:00 p.m. - 8:00 p.m.

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705 Gurley Ave. - Gallup NM 87301 - 505.863.7500

Notice of Non-Discrimination: The University of New Mexico-Gallup, as an equal opportunity/affirmative action employer and educator, complies with all applicable federal and state laws regarding nondiscrimination and affirmative action. The University of New Mexico - Gallup is committed to a policy of equal opportunity for all persons and does not discriminate on the basis of race/ethnicity, color, national origin, age, spousal affiliation, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, medical condition, disability, religion, pregnancy, genetic information, or veteran status in employment, educational programs and activities, and admissions, and provides equal access to the Boy Scouts and other designated youth groups. Inquiries or complaints may be addressed to the Office of Equal Opportunity whose Director serves as the 504/ADA Coordinator and Title IX Coordinator on UNM main campus: 505-277-5251.For referrals to main campus see: UNM Gallup Title IX Coordinator; Director of Student Affairs, SSTC Room 276. Telephone: 505-863-7508. For Referrals to main campus regarding Section 504 compliance; Student Success Specialist, Gurley Hall Room 2205 B. Telephone: 505-863-7527.