Gallup Sun • Friday DECEMBER 2, 2016 by Mike Kurov

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New Mexico ‘True Heroes’ honored by Gov. Susana Martinez. Page 6 VOL 2 | ISSUE 87 | DECEMBER 2, 2016

36th Annual Red Rock Balloon Rally Stories Pages 2-4

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Gallup Fun!

uff! t S nity d o u o m G m Co Feel

Liftoff! Balloon enthusiast recalls the event’s first few years

PETER PROCOPIO CONSIDERED FOUNDING FATHER OF RED ROCK BALLOON RALLY By Bernie Dotson Sun Correspondent

The Balloonists Prayer: The w inds have welcomed you with softness. The Sun has blessed you with its warm hands. You have flown so high and so well, that God has joined you in your laughter, and set you gently back again into the loving arms of Mother earth.”

hey’re the four locals that won’t be soon forgotten. Peter P rocopio, Lionel McK inney, Michael Siebersma and Karl Lohmann. They are the Gallup residents credited with establishing the annual Red Rock Balloon Rally – which started out small, but emerged as one of Gallup’s most successful annual tourist events. The 36th annual Red Rock Balloon Rally kicks off this weekend, and is, thanks to its founders, is the second largest such rally in New Mexico – the

Red Rock Balloon Rally founder shares his memories of the early years of the annual festival with the Gallup Sun Nov. 28. Photo Credit: Knifewing Segura

Albuquerque International Balloon Fiesta is the first. “It started out as a small gathering of balloon enthusiasts who wanted to put on a good event,” Procopio, a retired Gallup mental health counselor, said. “It grew in interest and support over the years.” To say the least.

T he idea t hat evolved from observing a small and since-gone balloon rally in Farmington is now one of the world’s biggest in terms of attraction and number of participants. The Red Rock Balloon Rally is the second largest in the state and the world — with the Lorraine Mondia l Ba lloon Ra lly in France third in terms of attendance and popularity. The France rally takes place every other year. Procopio recalled this week in an interview with the Gallup Sun at the El Rancho Hotel that the beginnings of the Red Rock

LIFTOFF! | SEE PAGE 9

Friday, December 2, 2016

• Mass Ascension from various schools and parks throughout Gallup & from Red Rock Park 7:30 am • Glow in The Rocks and Indian Dances at Red Rock Park 6 pm

Saturday December 3, 2016

• Dawn Patrol 6:30 am • Mass Ascension at Red Rock Park 7:30 am • Pyramid Rock Run Registration at Red Rock Park 8 am • Pyramid Rock Run at Red Rock Park 9 am • Downtown Christmas Parade 1 pm • Balloominaria at Rio West Mall 6 pm

Sunday December 4, 2016

• Dawn Patrol 6:30 am • Mass Ascension at Red Rock Park 7 am • Awards Brunch and Auction at Red Rock Park 10 am 2

Friday December 2, 2016 • Gallup Sun

Peter Precopio’s whimsical and Pueblo Indian-inspired balloon “Koshare Gallup.” Photo Credit: Courtesy GALLUP FUN!

Lee to fly new logo on balloon at annual rally 36TH ANNUAL RED ROCK BALLOON RALLY KICKS OFF DEC. 2

By Bernie Dotson Sun Correspondent

ill Lee wanted to create a new balloon image to draw in more tourists and onlookers at the city’s annual Red Rock Balloon Rally. A partnership with the New Mexico Tourism Department allows just that. Lee will fly a new balloon at this year’s rally that features a sugar skull logo. In terms of what the balloon looks like, Lee noted that the New Mexico True logo and brand are on two sides of the balloon. “We have a contract with the state Tourism Department that allows us to fly five events per year,” Lee explained. Lee owns and operates X-Treme-Lee Fun Balloon Adventures of Gallup. “W hen we showed t he Tou r ism Department the design of the new balloon with the sugar skulls they wanted to have the New Mexico True logo on the balloon, too. We entered into an advertising contract with the department to have the logo placed on our balloon.” Lee called hot air balloons “great marketing tools.” He said the sugar skulls are very popular and attract large crowds. “I have had people follow us in

It may be inspired by the Day of the Dead celebration, but this colorful sugar skull balloon is anything but macabre – it’s an inspiring reflection of New Mexico culture. Photo Credit: Courtesy their cars to see where we land just to take a picture of it,” Lee said. “I have people requesting trading cards, pins and T-shirts of the balloon. There is no prettier place to fly in a hot air balloon than over the red rocks of Gallup.” Lee said Samantha Brown of the Travel Channel flew in the newly-logoed balloon at the 2016 Albuquerque International Balloon Fiesta. “While I am flying these people, I am interviewed

about many things,” Lee said. “I make sure I highlight the culture, arts and outdoor adventure available in Gallup. Recently, we f lew a travel writer (Chicago Tribune) from Chicago right here in the red rocks. Instances like this lead to national and international exposure (for the city) that really doesn’t cost anything. Many times a balloon ride is a ‘bucket list’ adventure for people.” Gallup Mayor Jackie McKinney

Bill Lee, the executive director of the Gallup McKinley Chamber of Commerce, and owner of X-Treme-Lee Fun Balloon Adventure, incorporated some “New Mexico True” advertising on his sugar skull balloon. Photo Credit: Courtesy praised Lee for the years he has put into the Red Rock Balloon Rally.

BALLOON RALLY | SEE PAGE 9

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Gallup Sun • Friday December 2, 2016

Congratulations Winners OF THE 36TH ANNUAL RED ROCK BALLOON RALLY COLORING CONTEST! WINNERS OF AGES 8-10 CATEGORY 1st Place

2nd Place

3rd Place

Skyler Housser, 10

Angel Etsate, 10

Holland Null, 8

WINNERS OF AGES 5-7 CATEGORY 1st Place

2nd Place

3rd Place

Harmony Calabaza, 6

Azaley Parish, 5

Jordan Etsate, 6

Prizes for winners will be available Dec. 5 at Rio West Mall office. Call Gallup Sun at (505) 728-1640 for questions or details. Thank you all entrants … you all did great and made the competition tough!

Friday December 2, 2016 • Gallup Sun

GALLUP FUN!

Travis Holt Hamilton looking for screen actors, actresses

IDAHO-BORN FILM PRODUCER FINISHES FREE NOVEMBER SCREENINGS By Bernie Dotson Sun Correspondent

fter nearly a month of streaming free previously released films over the Internet, film director and producer Travis Holt Hamilton is now seeking actors and actresses to appear in an upcoming Native American-theme movie. Hamilton is a film director and producer, and most of his films have been shot around the Nava jo Nation Indian Reservation. “This is my way of giving back to the community,” Ha m i lton sa id about t he streaming during a recent appearance and talk at the Octavia Fellin Library in downtown Gallup. Of the film that he’s currently in production with, we are looking for a few actors for a Christian-based short film that will be shooting on the (Navajo Nation) on Dec. 1 and 2,” Hamilton said. “Some of the parts for the actors are paid parts.” Hamilton, a veteran who served in the U.S. Army, gave the following character breakdown on the new film: • Herbert Tsosie: 70’s. A Navajo grandfather with deep tan wrinkles and full of wisdom; long graying hair tied in a traditional bun. Should speak Navajo. • Dr. Benally: 30’s. Navajo male with short hair and dark rimmed glasses; very studious. • Navajo Child: Aged 9 to 14

years old. Long or short hair; full of curiosity; should be able to hoop dance and have hoop dance regalia. • Male Drummer: 20’s. Should be able to sing traditional Navajo songs. • Navajo Mother: 40’s. Long hair. Should be able to speak Navajo. “A lot of extras will be needed for montage scenes and a big social dance event,” Hamilton said about the film. “All ages and both Native and non-Native are needed.” Ha milton burst on the area film scene in 2007 with Turquoise Rose which introduced mov ie-goers to the Navajo-born Natasha Johnson of Twin Lakes to the Native American film industry. He went on to make such films as Blue Gap Boy’z (2008) and Pete & Cleo (2010). Hamilton, who has lived in Shiprock and Kayenta, Ariz., on the Navajo Nation Indian Reservation, now resides in Mesa, Ariz. The Idaho-born Hamilton was at the Octavia Fellin Library on Nov. 9 to discuss the 2015 film Legends From the Sky. More than 30 people showed up at Fellin for that event, Library Director Mary Ellen Pellington said. “It was one of the larger turnouts we’ve had this year,” Pellington said of the Legends From the Sky discussion session. “It was a very good turnout.”

SCREENINGS | SEE PAGE 9

Travis Holt Hamilton gave a presentation at Octavia Fellin Library Nov. 9 to discuss his 2015 film “Legends From the Sky. Photo Credit: Courtesy GALLUP FUN!

Gallup Sun • Friday December 2, 2016

Riege named 2016 NM True Heroes list HONOREES RECOGNIZED FOR MAKING LIFE BETTER, SAFER FOR KIDS, VETS, FAMILIES, WILDLIFE

By Bernie Dotson Sun Correspondent

enneth Riege, a U.S. Air Force veteran and the general manager at Gallup’s Comfort

Suites, has been named a New Mexico True Hero. The announcement was made Nov. 29 by Gov. Susana Martinez. “Our 2016 New Mexico True Heroes all have one thing in common – they go above and

beyond everyday, leading by example to make our state a better place,” Gov. Martinez said. “These five New Mexicans work to make our communities safer from criminals, help more children have a chance to reach

for their dreams, serve our veterans, and care for and protect our animals and wildlife. Through their commitment, passion and service they exemplify what it means to be New Mexico True.” Over the years, Riege has raised money, hosted events and has given time to help fellow veterans with care, such as assisting veterans find assistance with respect to PostTraumatic Stress Disorder, Martinez said. Riege, an Ohio native, is highly involved with the Quilts of Valor program, and was equally instrumental

THANK YOU ADVERTISERS Amazing Grace Insurance - 19 From left, City Councilor Yogash Kumar, Medal of Honor recipient Hiroshi “Hershey” Miyamura, Gov. Susana Martinez, and New Mexico True Hero award recipient Ken Riege attend the “True Hero” reception at the Albuquerque National Hispanic Cultural Center Nov. 29. Photo Credit: Courtesy

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in Gallup earning the Most Pat r iot ic Sm a l l Tow n i n America and Purple Heart City distinctions. Others around New Mexico

HEROES LIST | SEE PAGE 9

Gallup Sun Publishing, LLC Publisher/Editor Babette Herrmann Advertising Raenona Harvey Correspondents Bernie Dotson Tom Hartsock Lealia Nelson Calendar Editor Mia Rose Poris Photography Knifewing Segura Design David Tsigelman On the Cover: Various photos of balloons from past annual Red Rock Balloon Rally festivals. 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 (By Appointment): 102 S. Second St., Gallup, NM 87301 The Gallup Sun, pending USPS number 1, is mailed weeky. 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) 728-1640 Fax: (505) 212-0391 gallupsun@gmail.com Letter to the editor/guest column ACCEPTED BY EMAIL ONLY. State full name and city/town. No pen names. ID required. All submissions subjected to editor’s approval. Guest columnists, email Sun for submission requirements.

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DVD/Blu-ray Roundup for Dec. 2, 2016 By Glenn Kay For the Sun

elcome back for another look at Blu-ray and DVD highlights coming your way. You can read about all of them below. So if you can’t make it out to the movies this week, be sure to give one of these titles a try!

BIG NEW RELEASES! Baked in Brooklyn - This independent romantic c o m e d y involves a nebbish young man w ho lo s e s his day job and decides to start selling marijuana on the internet. His business is a success, but causes comic friction with his new girlfriend. It also doesn’t help that he develops a pot habit and attracts the attention of authorities. There aren’t any reviews available, so if you’re interested you’ll just have to take a chance. It features Josh Brener and Alexandra Daddario. The BFG - Steven Spielberg adapts the classic Roald Dahl tale in this live-action family flick. Its all about a young orphan who befriends a big, friendly giant. Together, the pair set out to stop some mean and nasty giants from eating human beings. The movie didn’t catch on at the box office but did earn more positive notices than negative ones. All complimented the photography and a portion enjoyed it as a fanciful adventure, but several complained that it meandered and failed to capture the spirit

of the original tale. It stars Mark Rylance, R u b y Barnhill, Rebecca H a l l , Penelope W i lt o n , Jemaine Clemenet and Rafe Spall. Don’t Breathe - This intense horror/thriller was a surprise hit with audiences late in the summer. The story involves a trio of young thieves who break into a blind man’s house after learning that he may have collected a big trial settlement. Un for tu nately, they don’t realize that the man himself may be disturbed and incredibly dangerous. Reviews were excellent for the film, stating that it was incredibly intense, visually striking and at times uncomfortably disturbing. The cast includes Jane Levy, Dylan Minnette, Daniel Zavotto and Stephen Lang. Pete’s Dragon - The 70s live-action Disney flick gets remade in this updated version that replaces the animated dragon for a CGI creation. It also cuts out all of the musical numbers. The story involves a young boy who gets lost in the northwestern wilderness after a tragic incident. He befriends a fire-breathing creature the helps him survive the elements. When he’s discovered by authorities, the kid must deal with humans out to capture his dragon pal, as well as reintegrate himself into society. Notices were very good overall, with most calling it sweet and sentimental. Still, a few did find it a bit too gentle and patronizing for its own good. It features Bryce Dallas Howard, Robert Redford, Oakes Fegley, Wes Bentley and Karl Urban.

White Girl - This independent flick has been described as a hedonistic tale of a college student who falls for a drug dealer. When he’s arrested and she’s left with his goods, the lead must move the product and pay off debts she has accrued from her wild ways. Overall, a few more members of the press liked it than disliked it. They wrote that the characters were hard to like and the movie didn’t always work, but they also admired the high energy level on display. The movie stars Morgan Saylor, Brian ‘Sene’ Mark and Chris Noth. The Wild Life - Also k now n a s Robinson Crusoe, this French / Belgian animated fami ly feat u re updates the Daniel Dafoe tale by stranding the central character on an island populated with cute, talking animals. In particular, he befriends a parrot named Tuesday who helps him survive the elements. Reviews were extremely poor. The majority felt that the visuals were nice to look at, but the story and characters were bland and unmemorable. Of course, they also felt that it didn’t pay much service to the original story. The English-language voice cast includes Yuri Lowenthal, David Howard Thornton and Laila Berzins.

disturbing little picture about an artist slowly driving himself insane. He works out his personal frustrations by attacking people with power tools. The unsettling feature marked the directorial debut of Abel Ferrara (King of New York, Bad Lieutenant, Body Snatchers). He also stars in the feature. The Blu-ray/DVD combo release includes a new restorations of two versions of the film (the theatrical version and a never-before-seen prerelease cut), an audio commentary with the director. It also includes an interview with Ferrara, a documentary on his career, a trailer and another special visiting the various locations used in the film. Kino have a couple of curious Bluray t it les. Biggles: Adventures in Time (19 8 6) i s a US/UK co-production that I missed during its original release. In fact, I hadn’t even heard of it until right now. It likely got a much bigger release in Britain than in North America. Anyway, this is a sci-fi adventure tale about a WWI pilot who learns that he has a “time twin” in the modern day. This means that the two can travel through portals and help each other out when danger arises. The movie was directed by John Hough (The Legend of Hell House, Escape to Witch Mountain)

BLASTS FROM THE PAST! Arrow Video are always putting out fascinating cult titles and they have another oddity this week. The Driller Killer (1979) is a strange and

and includes Peter Cushing in the cast. It doesn’t exactly look like a very good movie, but it might be an amusingly cheesy nostalgia trip and chance to see something old (and in a way, new) from the 80s. F in d e r s Keepers (19 8 4) i s a “ w a ck y ” c o m e d y from Richard L e s t er (A Hard Day’s N i g h t , T h e T hr e e M u s k e t e e r s, R o b i n a n d Marian, Superman II). The plot involves a scam artist on the run. While being pursued by a roller derby team he conned, the hero boards a train with a coffin and tries to pull off another chaotic scheme. It stars Miles O’Keefe, Beverly D’Angelo, Lou Gossett Jr., Ed Lauter, Brian Dennehy and Jim Carrey. Sounds like another fun time capsule of a film.

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LIFTOFF! | FROM PAGE 2 rally saw a small group of people meet at the old Ramada Inn on Gallup’s west end to plan and troubleshoot. Procopio said the first rally saw about 50 balloonists come out and that number doubled the year after. This year there are 140 registered balloonists set to participate, which is the event’s average, Bill Lee, president of the Red Rock Balloon Rally Board of Directors, said. The El Rancho on Gallup’s East Historic Highway 66 is now the official headquarters of the Red Rock Balloon Rally. “It has grown in attraction,” Procopio and Lee said. “It’s not just a local event. The balloon rally attracts people from around the world.” Originally from Rochester, N.Y., Procopio has flown at rallies in Durango, Colo., Albuquerque and Monument Valley, Utah. He said two lengthy articles and photo s pr e a d s i n t he mont h ly Harper’s Bazaar took the rally to new heights. Writers and photographers spent nearly a week in Gallup in 2002 gathering and researching, and interviewing for the articles. Procopio, 71, flies a balloon named “Koshare Gallup,” which is a reference to a sacred clown of Native American Pueblo origin, he explains. “It brings delight to the

BALLOON RALLY | FROM PAGE 3 “It’s a top tourist draw for Gallup – no doubt about it,” McKinney said. “There are tourists and balloonists that come from all around the United States and the world to see the rally. Bill Lee has helped make the balloon rally what it is today.” Lee said Gallup has formally partnered with the state Tourism Department since the inception of the New Mexico True Campaign a few years

SCREENINGS | FROM PAGE 5 November i s Nat ive A merican Heritage Month which honors the contributions of native peoples around the world. Fol k s a r ou nd g r e a t er McKinley County are familiar with Hamilton’s films. GALLUP FUN!

spectators at the many balloon rallies that it attends,” Procopio said of the balloon image. “It is a very catchy design.” The Indian Capital’s first balloon rally took place on the second weekend of December. Nowadays, the Gallup rally take place the first weekend in December. The Rio West Mall was the event’s first location before it moved to the bigger Red Rock Park. The Red Rock Balloon Rally was cancelled in 2011 due to heavy snow and fog, which is the only down moment Lee and Procopio recalled. “I think it’s something that everyone enjoys,” Lee said. ”Nobody likes it when the weather is just so bad that you can’t fly.” The ra lly ha s seen the British Broadcasting Cable, F rench T V, a nd the Food Network not that long ago set up shop and cooked for more than 200. And in recent years, Lee flew New Mexico Gov. Susana Martinez over Red Rock Park and parts of Gallup. “It is something that is known throughout the world,” Graham Bell, 69, who hails from England, said. Gallup’s balloon rally has attracted people from Canada and Germany and other far places over the years. “People who fly the Red Rock Rally like the scenery in Gallup. They like flying over Red Rock Park especially.”

HEROES LIST | FROM PAGE 6 who also were named to the 2016 New Mexico True Hero list were Nicole Chavez-Lucero of Albuquerque, Michelle and Clay Schroff of Albuquerque, Dr. Kathleen Ramsay of Española. “Our New Mexico True Heroes shine a spotlight on our state’s greatest treasure: our people,” Rebecca Latham, state tourism secretary said. “We are surrounded by so much good ever yday, a nd our New Mexico True Heroes put ever yday leaders like these front and center, where their incredible efforts can help inspire even more New Mexicans to do more to make our state a better place.” The New Mex ico Tr ue Heroes Awards were developed by the state tourism department in partnership with the Gildan New Mexico Bowl in 2014. Dozens of nominations

Gallup’s own Medal of Honor recipient Hiroshi “Hershey” Miyamura and New Mexico Gov. Susana Martinez take a moment to pose for the camera during the “True Heroes” reception Nov. 29. Photo Credit: Courtesy were submitted by friends, family members, students and co-workers. A panel of community from around the state determined the winners.

The honorees will be recognized at this year’s Gildan Bowl during the player’s luncheon on Dec. 16 and on the field during the game on Dec. 17.

ago. “Gallup was the first community to adopt the ‘True’ campaign and remains aligned with the department even as we develop our own brand of Gallup. Real.True.” The Gallup City Council formally OK’d the new marketing brand a couple of months ago. “The state’s True campaign has benefitted Gallup with nationwide promotion. As I travel with the balloon across the Southwest, it is noted at various events that the balloon is from Gallup, New Mexico,” he said. “I’ve seen all of his films and I can tell you that they a re ver y popu la r a rou nd here,” Jonathan Peters of St. Michaels, Ariz., said. “I think everybody around the Navajo nation has seen his films.” If interested in trying out for the Christian film, please contact Pyn Francisco at: bluefeatherndn101@yahoo.com. Gallup Sun • Friday December 2, 2016

NEWS Black Friday still popular in Gallup BUT THURSDAY STEALING SOME OF THE SPOTLIGHT

By Bernie Dotson Sun Correspondent

l a ck F r id ay con jures up images of malls and big box stores full of shoppers vying for deep discounts. Things can sometimes get so hectic that fights and arguments take place over who can get one item faster than someone else. Marriah Silversmith, store manager at Bealls at Rio West Mall, pictures it well. It was Silversmith’s first time working Black Friday at Rio West. “I’ve seen people wait for hours until the store opens,” Si lver sm it h sa id. “Once inside, they buy clothing and some buy shoes. But there weren’t that many people this year.” Ga llup resident Pooler Vasey’s turkey barely had time to settle before he brought his daughter, Delores, 14, to Rio West Mall on Thanksgiving Day. Bealls opened at 10 am on Thanksgiving Day to give shoppers more time to shop before the annual Black Friday. Vasey said he and Delores had already taken advantage of shopping deals at WalMart prior to coming to Bealls. WalMart is within walking distance of Rio West Mall. Vasey said they didn’t have any other plans to shop elsewhere besides Rio West Mall and WalMart. “There were a lot of customers, but down a little from last year,” Silversmith said. “I think

It’s Thanksgiving Day at the Rio West Mall, and scores of shoppers line up outside of the mall to snatch up some good deals before the Black Friday morning rush. Photo Credit: Knifewing Segura it was the economy or people just waiting until later to shop for Christmas.” A f e w s t o r e s a w a y, JCPenney opened at 3 pm on Thanksgiving Day as opposed to its normal traditionally opening hour of 4 am on Black Friday. JCPenney’s early opening and sales made it an easy second stop for the Vasey’s. “Things were not that bad at Penney’s,” Pooler Vasey said. “We did find a lot of what we were looking for. We left happy.”

Cynthia Mort, general manager of JCPenney at Rio West Mall, said shoppers bought a variety of items, from clothing to appliances. “I don’t think it was just one thing that people wanted,” Mort said. “I think they targeted a variety of things.” Black Friday is the day following Thanksgiving in the United States. Since 1952, it has been regarded as the beginning of the shopping season and most retailers open early and offer competitive shopping deals.

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Friday December 2, 2016 • Gallup Sun

8/5/16 3:48 PM

West Gallup experiences power outage By Bernie Dotson Sun Correspondent

power outage on the city’s west end left dozens of residences and businesses without electricity on Nov. 26. But electricity was quickly restored, officials said. Gallup Electric Director Richard Matzke said power went out at about 3 am that morning at various locales throughout Gallup, adding that it didn’t come back on until about a three hours later. “There were some strong winds at that time,” Matzke said. “That is what this was attributed to.” Matzke sa id city work crews ended up replacing two

fuses associated with a bigger transformer. He said the winds at the time were so strong that the fuses simply didn’t hold up. Heather Young of Cleveland, Ohio, was staying at the Budget Inn, 3150 W. Historic Highway 66, when the power went out. She said she lost Internet connections, but nothing else, particularly, the heating system, wasn’t effected, she said. “The power was down, but there was still heat,” Young said. Last weekend wasn’t the first time the power went out in west Gallup and beyond. The same thing has happened at least twice in 2016. Matzke said the cost to replace the fuses was a little more than $200. NEWS

Land Commissioner to pitch expanding drilling to fund early childhood education to ALEC By Andy Lyman NM Political Report

ew Mexico’s Com m i s sioner of P u bl ic L a nd s i s slated to speak Friday with a group of conservative-minded state lawmakers in Washington D.C. about his proposal to transfer federal mineral rights on private lands to the state. Land Commissioner Aubrey Dunn is also planning to meet with members of Congress in order to urge them to approve the transfer, according to spokeswoman Emily Strickler. In an email to NM Political Report, Strickler said Dunn is promoting his Early Childhood Education Land Grant Act to state lawmakers at an American Legislative Exchange Council (ALEC) policy summit. “The group Commissioner is presenting to at ALEC would not be voting on this legislation, but may be interested in using the legislation as a model for legislation in their states,” Strickler wrote. “Also, Commissioner will be meeting with New Mexico’s congressional delegation while in D.C. to discuss this legislation because it needs congressional approval.” ALEC members use model legislation to spread laws throughout states, with the

New Mexico Commissioner of Public Lands Aubrey Dunn most high-profile example perhaps the so-called “Stand Your Ground” laws that are in place in several states. ALEC also has model legislation requiring photo ID to vote and on prison privatization. ALEC does not disclose lawmakers who are members, but says over 2,000 individuals are members. In 2012, several corporate members a nd indiv idua ls left the group after the fatal shooting of Trayvon Martin in Florida. Florida has a “Stand your Ground” law. At the time, State Sen. Geor ge Mu ñoz , t he lone Democrat from New Mexico who was a member of the group, left. Sen. John Sapien,

who attended several ALEC events but was not a member, denounced the group. Congressman Steve Pearce’s Chief of Staff Todd Willens told NM Political Report Pearce was scheduled to meet with Dunn Thursday regarding the legislative proposal. Willens said the proposal “definitely interests the Congressman” and that Pearce will likely have questions. “This is the chance to go through and discuss those items,” Willen said. I n a st atement to N M Political Report U.S. Sen. Martin Heinrich said he plans to meet with Dunn and has significant questions about how fast New Mexico can see financial returns. “We a re meet i ng w it h Commissioner Dunn to discuss his idea tomorrow and intend to do additional analysis on how many years it might take to produce revenue, but it has to be viewed in the context of a plan I already support to use existing permanent fund dollars to invest in early childhood education right away,” Heinrich said. On the U.S. Senate floor in July, Heinrich criticized ALEC for legislative proposals that would transfer public lands from states to the federal government. He also accused ALEC of supporting

selling off public land to private companies. A spokesma n for Congressman Ben Ray Lujan said his office was not aware of any meetings scheduled with Dunn. Dunn’s proposal would transfer federally-owned mineral rights, located under privately owned land, to the state and divert proceeds from the leases to a newly-created permanent fund earmarked for early childhood education. Dunn’s office estimates the fund could raise $210 annually from lease royalties if the legislation passed and Congress approves the transfer. New Mexico Commissioner of Public Lands Aubrey Dunn Conservation Voters New Mexico spokeswoman Liliana Castillo said while her organization is concerned with money for education, they are also concerned that Dunn’s proposal would allow oil and gas companies to intrude on private land. “Handing [mineral rights] over gives oil and gas operators the dominant use of [the property owner’s] land,” Castillo said. “It is still really giving the control of that land to the extractive industry.” New Mexico statute still allows property owners the

right to oppose or negotiate compensation for drilling operations on their private property. Castillo said more oil and gas wells may raise money for early childhood education programs but that more wells will also negatively impact New Mexico. “Climate change is going to be a huge part of our children’s future,” Castillo said. NM Political Report reached out to New Mexico Voice s for Ch i ld ren a nd Catholic Health Initiatives St. Joseph’s Children, two unrelated organizations that supported tapping the state’s Land Grant Permanent Fund for early childhood funding. Officials from both organizations declined to comment saying the groups needed to see fully written legislation to completely understand its impacts. I n New Mex ico, D u n n will have his work cut out for h i m a s he h a s t o get t he mea su re t h rou g h t he Legislature with both chambers now held by Democrats a nd conv ince Congress to tra nsfer the la nd to his office’s control.

EDUCATION | SEE PAGE 14

Oil rig in southeast New Mexico. Photo Credit: NM Political Report. cc: Margaret White NEWS

Gallup Sun • Friday December 2, 2016

Reverend Douglas Mac Arthur Cline

everend Douglas Mac Arthur Cline, 74, of St. James, MO, was called home by God on Monday morning, November 21, 2016 as he prepared for an exciting week of deer hunting in Lewis County, WV with his brother. So, he was granted his final wish . . . to transition to Heaven while either worshiping at the pulpit or while spending time in the woods with his brother. He blessed this earth and the lives of his parents when he was born in Huff Creek, WV on June 21, 1942 a son of the late Elliott Douglas Cline and Esther Gibson Cline. On September 6, 1964 he married Linda Darlene Goodwill, who loved him beyond words and will miss him beyond measure after 52 years of marriage. His giving, loving spirit will

be carried on by his two children: Troy Douglas Cline and companion, Jeff Gilbert, of Washington, DC, and Regenia Lynn Stull and husband, Daniel, of St. James, MO; two grandchildren: Cassandra Hatcher and husband, Eli, of Steeleville, MO, and Christopher Stull of

St. James, MO; one great granddaughter, Alice Hatcher; and a great granddaughter who is due to arrive into the world in April; two siblings: James Cline of Fairdell, WV, and Witcher Elliott “Pat” Cline of Oak Hill, OH; several nieces and nephews; and his beloved pets and loyal companions: Daisy and Hunter. In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by one brother, Mason Cline; and a sister-in-law, Phyllis Cline. Doug’s life was miraculous, full, and blessed. When doctors told his family that he wouldn’t live past the age of eleven, God healed his heart because he had big plans for him. In return Doug lived his life to the fullest, personifying what it meant to live each moment Christ-like, with purpose and intention to change lives for the better. Everywhere he went, he

planted the seeds of Christ’s love and touched lives in ways that defy explanation. He proudly played in the National Little League Baseball Championship in Cincinnati, OH. He was an honored veteran of the United States Air Force, having served in Europe and during Vietnam. He also became a fastpitched softball champion and trained to become a worldclass boxing champion. While still serving in the military, he built two churches outside his military base in France. He spent 20 years working with the SW Indian Ministries for the Church of God, and helped build 57 worship centers on a Navajo Reservation in New Mexico, where he was adopted into the Navajo nation and was known by his friends as a horse whisperer.

He ministered at seven churches in OH a nd W V, worked as a coal miner in Logan County, WV, trained new ministers, coordinated youth camps, refurbished guns, collected knives, fished, camped, hiked, and gardened. Most of all, he loved his family, who were the greatest blessings in his life. Doug’s request for cremation has been honored and his family will have a Celebration of Life Service at a later date. Expressions of sympathy may be sent directly to his family at 15050 State Rt. B St. James, MO 65559-8406. The Pat Boyle Funeral Home and Cremation Service at 144 Hackers Creek Rd. in Jane Lew is honored and privileged to serve the family of Douglas Cline. Online condolences may be expressed at www.patboylefuneralhome.com

Gallup Council approves new wastewater treatment pact CITY NOT IN UNCHARTERED WATERS WITH NEW PLANT OPERATOR

By Bernie Dotson Sun Correspondent

The Gallup City Council unanimously approved a design,

build and operating contract Nov. 22 with CH2M of Colorado

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Friday December 2, 2016 • Gallup Sun

in connection with the wastewater treatment plant. The action took place at the regular city meeting. The council vote puts into place an eightyear deal with the firm and replaces a previous treatment plant pact with Severn Trent of Pennsylvania. “We feel very good about the new contract,” city water and sanitation director Dennis Romero said after the meeting. “We are eager to get to worth with CH2M.” Romero, hired into the wastewater job in July, said f i xed con st r uc t ion co st s with the contract are set at $1,948,636, which may be spread out over a period of the pact. Another component of the contract is called pass-through costs, which amount to $398,774 per year, Romero explained. An annual service fee is $1,355,162, Romero noted. Most of the costs come from the electricity required to run

the plant, Romero said. City Councilor Allan Landavazo asked City Attorney George Kozeliski what the city pays for plant electricity. Richard Shirley, general manager at Continental Divide Co-Op, explained that the city pays an amount which is considered just above cost. Romero said one of the ideal components of the new contract will save the city thousands of dollars down the road. He said once a gas sludge dryer is put into operation that the city will save some funds. He said for the sludge device to be brought online is a one-time cost of $100,000 and after that upwards of $10,000 per month will be saved by the city with respect to transport costs to the landfill in Thoreau. “This is a money-saver for sure,” Romero said. “I consider

WASTEWATER | SEE PAGE 15 NEWS

WEEKLY DWI REPORT Staff Reports Randy Jones Nov. 4, 10:25 pm 2nd DWI, Aggravated Jone s’s a l lege d erratic driving alerted McKinley C o u n t y Sher i f f ’s O f f ic e L t . Eric Jim. He pulled Jones over at Hwy 66 and Dean Street. Jones, 36, showed the classic signs of intoxication – red, watery eyes, the strong odor of booze coming from his person, and slurred speech. He failed the field sobriety tests and blew a .33 and .32 during the breath tests. Bennie C. Yazzie Nov. 3, 5:46 pm Aggravated DWI Driving the wrong way Staff Reports

PLAYGROUND OF NIGHMARES 11/25, GALLUP A n i g ht and morning of a rg u i ng for Cr ystal Dickman, 32, landed her in jail for triple cha rges – battery on a household member, drug paraphernalia, and abandonment of child. GPD O f f ic e r R a n s o m Ja mes wa s dispatched to 600 E. Wilson, the location of the Playground of Dreams park, Sgt. Francie Martinez was already on scene, with Dickman, who had her “lightly bundled” baby in a stroller, according to the police report. And this wasn’t appropriate attire for the cool, windy 49 degree weather. A s Ja me s i nter v iewed Dickman back at the residence, she “threw punches in the air, hit the window of the residence, yelling out her statements in anger as if she wanted her husband” to hear her, the report states. James noticed that Dickman failed to have diapers, warm NEWS

on Second S t r e e t a ler t e d Gallup Police Department Officer Chaz Troncoso to Yazzie. A f ter T roncoso pu lled Yazzie over, he observed a plastic bottle of Vodka half filled with a clear liquid. The officer also noted that Yazzie, 44, was showing the signs of intoxication. He told Troncoso the reason that he turned the wrong way down Second Street was because he got into an argument with the passenger in his car and became distracted. He refused to take tests to measure his blood alcohol content. Tyrell Thompson Nov. 3, 6:58 pm DWI GPD O f f icer Cl a r i s s a

M o r g a n p u l l e d Thompson over for h a v i n g no he a d l i g ht s on at night. Thompson, 25, pulled into the Gia nt Central, 1223 E. Hwy 66, and Morgan noted in her report that when she approached him sitting in his truck the signs of intoxication were present. When asked whether he had anything to drink, Thompson reportedly said “yea, I had a can way earlier …” and that he was returning to his home on Ford Drive after dropping his uncle off at the Lariat Motel. Thompson failed the field sobriety tests and was taken to State Police headquarters for a breath test, where he blew a .19 twice. Darvin Bills Nov. 3, 8:14 pm Aggravated DWI As MCSO Inv. Gabrielle P u huyesva travelled ea st on Highway 66, she noticed Bills’vehicle high-centered on

a curb near Taco Bell west . She tu r ned on her emergency lights, and parked her vehicle on the roadway to keep other drivers from hitting the stranded vehicle. W hen she a pproa ched Bills, she could smell “the odor of intoxication beverage coming from his person.” And he reportedly slurred his words as he told Puhuyesva that headlights blinded him as he turned into the business, causing him to run up the curb. Despite the distraction, Bi l l s , 2 4 , d id n’t p er for m well during sobriety tests, and blew a .18 and 17. Prior to his vehicle being towed, the deputy found two miniature half empty bottles of 99 Bananas. Orlando Wartz Nov. 3, 7:36 pm Aggravated DWI Wartz picked the wrong

WEEKLY CRIME BLOTTER clothes, formula or “adequate infant needs,” so he took her into custody for the child abandonment charge. From there, the situation escalated, and Dickman yelled both at police and her husband. When James arrived at the jail with Dickman, she admitted to having a “bowl pipe.” Other paraphernalia was discovered in her purse as well.

DRUNK PARENTING 11/24, GALLUP

Shernell Stash

GPD offic e r s we r e d ispatched to 602 Dani D r. a f t e r someone n e a r b y heard a loud ba ng a nd

a baby cry. When Officer D a n i e l B r o w n a r r ive d a t t he a pa r t ment, he witnessed two Raquel Stash intoxicated

women trying to walk out of the apartment. One woman, identified as Raquel Stash, 24, was “fumbling a small child” as she attempted to leave. Brown asked Raquel Stash to place the child on the couch. When he tried to enter the apartment, the second woman, Shernell Stash, 21, attempted to close the door on him, “preventing (me) from placing the child in a safe position,” according to the report. As Brown went to place Shernell Stash under arrest, she allegedly pulled away from him, and fell down, kicking him in the process and scratching his left hand. She was arrested for battery on a police officer and for obstructing a police officer. Raquel Stash was arrested for child abuse (placing child in a dangerous situation).

Detention C e nt e r o n N o v. 2 2 , records show. Gallup police officer Emer y Holly of the Gallup Police Depar tment wrote in a police report that Donaldson Pettigrew, 28, was involved in a domestic dispute on Nov. 19 along East Montoya Boulevard with his significant other. Pettigrew was jailed on $3,000 bail bond, according to jail records. W hen a sked about the n a t u re of t he sit u a t ion , Pettigrew said it was a simply argument between the two.

The argument stemmed from Pettigrew inquiring to his partner in a telephone call as to when she was coming home from work. The reported victim ultimately started cleaning the kitchen, and then proceeded to leave the apartment, the report states. It was stated in the report that Pettigrew accused the victim of cheating, and things further escalated. At one point, Pettigrew pushed her, and she fell over her 2-year-old son, according to the police report. The woman locked herself and the child inside of a bathroom because she said she was scared, the police report states. She managed to call police from the locked bathroom, the police report states. B.Dotson

CRIME BLOTTER | SEE PAGE 14

Law Ofﬁce of Barry Klopfer P.C. Barry KIopfer Attorney at Law

DOMESTIC ENCOUNTER 11/19, GALLUP A Gallup man jailed on battery on a household member a nd abuse of a child charges was released from the McKinley County Adult

place to pass out behind the wheel of his vehicle. MCSO Dep. Lorenzo Guerrero was dispatched to Sagebrush Liquors to wake Wartz up. Other deputies also arrived on scene, and placed stop sticks behind the rear wheels as the vehicle was still running. Guerrero attempted to open the doors, but they were locked, so he tapped on the window to awaken Wartz. Wartz, 45, couldn’t unlock the door. Guerrero noted in the report that he could smell alcohol and saw an open container of booze in the passenger seat. The deputy was able to unlock the door and get Wartz, who had a hard time maintaining his balance, out of the car. He refused to engage in field sobriety tests and take breath tests, earning him the aggravated DWI status.

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Gallup Sun • Friday December 2, 2016

CRIME BLOTTER | FROM PAGE 13

EXTRA CASH 11/19, GALLUP A Gallup man who admitted that he was trying to make some extra cash by selling some dope, was out of jail as of Dec. 1 on a $5,000 bond, records show. Christopher Etsitty, 32, was jailed on possession with the intent to distribute and possession charges after Deputy Nacona Clark of the McKinley County Sheriff’s Office saw the silver Pontiac Grand Am that Etsitty was driving pulled over along New Mexico 566, according to a police report. Clark had to shake Etsitty to get his attention. The incident happened on Nov. 19. “Damn, I thought I was at home,” Etsitty told Clark at one point during the situation. Clark discovered a small bottle of Yukon Jack and some Natural Ice beer on the floor board of the vehicle. An additional search of Etsitty’s car revealed a pipe commonly used for smoking and some marijuana. A large jar in the car revealed some of the same “leafy” substance, Clark recorded in the police report.

Etsitty conceded to a field sobriety test that he passed. On the marijuana matter, Etsitty told Clark he was simply trying to sell his “personal stash.”

METH-ING AROUND 11/18, THOREAU A Continental Divide female remained jailed Dec. 1 on a posse s sion of methamphe t a m i ne charge and a federal arrest warrant, according to jail records at the McKinley County Adult Detention Center. Nicole Estranger, 36, was initially taken into custody Nov. 18 after Deputy Arnold Noriega of the McKinley County Sheriff’s Office conducted a traffic stop in Thoreau. The stop was made due to the fact that a white Nissan in which Entringer was the passenger had just one functioning headlight. Entringer’s bond amount was set at $3,500 and there was no bond via the federal warrant. A male named John Kirk was the driver of the vehicle, however, Noriega ran a warrant search and discovered that

Entringer had an outstanding warrant from McKinley County. Upon transporting Entringer to jail, Noriega recorded in the police report on the matter that Entringer revealed that she was in possession of some meth. Kirk, the driver, was not arrested in the incident. B. Dotson

DRUNKEN FIGHT 11/17, GALLUP When officers arrived at the home of Matthew Corsault, 21, and his significant other, Latricia Castillo, they found a room in disarray and a baby in a basinet. According to GPD Officer John Gonzales’s report, there was a smashed TV, broken window, and a hole in the wall of the bedroom. And there was other children in the home as well. It was enough to book Castillo, 28, for aggravated battery on a household member and abandonment/abuse of a child. She claimed that Corsault threatened to beat her up, so she threw the TV at him, then allegedly jabbed him in the arm. Corsault claimed that he wounded his arm, but it was a tough sell. Officers overheard him telling paramedics that he was stabbed. Corsault was arrested for outstanding warrants.

Shiprock man faces murder charges Staff Reports

The FBI has arrested Larry June, 57, of Shiprock, New Mexico, who is charged in a federal criminal complaint with murder and crimes occurring in Indian Country.

June was taken into custody Tuesday. He is expected to have an initial appearance before U.S. Magistrate Judge B. Paul Briones in Farmington on Wednesday. The charges are in connection with an investigation by the FBI and Navajo Nation

Division of Public Safety into the death of a Navajo woman that occurred in Sheep Springs, New Mexico, on Friday. The federal criminal complaint is expected to be posted in PACER shortly after June’s court appearance.

Warrant Arrests Nov. 28 Charley Sampson Jerry Buffington Luis Sanchez Ernie Ornelas Lisa Nunez Jason Teller Dannesa Etsitty Arnold Shorty Nov. 27 Kevin L. Tom Clinton Johnson Bryan Lee Begay Nov. 26 Rudy Kinsel Tammy L. Latham Nov. 23 Julius Johnson Wilenger B. Charlie

EDUCATION | FROM PAGE 11

DOMENICI ON BOARD Along with Dunn at the A L EC lu nc he on w i l l b e Republican Congressman Rob Bishop from Utah and former U.S. Senator Pete Domenici. Dunn’s office announced Wednesday that Domenici, who retired in 2009, will serve as a policy advisor to Dunn. In a press release Dunn called Domenici “a wonderful asset to my administration.” In a statement Wednesday, Domenici directly addressed Dunn’s proposal, which the two will both be discussing at the ALEC conference. “I look forward to working with the Land Commissioner on the bill he has prepared

Esmerelda Tapaha Jordan A. Strain Nov. 22 Larry Francisco, Jr. Thomas J. Yazzie-Joe Nov. 21 Marcelino M. Angeles Richard Caballero Derrick W. Mitchell Harold E. Pahe, Jr. Frank M. Morales Ronald Ray Yazzie Nov. 20 Edwin Gruber Montano J. Claw Nov. 19 Darnell Owens Smith Harold Edmond Pahe Robby Emerson regarding early childhood education and the assurance of funding for this initiative, as well as assisting the Land Commissioner in his overall obligation and commitment to education funding for New Mexicans,” Domenici said. Bishop recently called on President-elect Donald Trump to abolish national monuments President Obama designated while in office. In terms of concern over Dunn’s proposal, Castillo said her group is still in “wait to see” mode, as it’s still unclear what Trump’s immediate plans for the Department of Interior are. “Because of what happened in the election,” Castillo said. “We’re not really sure if the feds are interested in this.” Visit: nmpoliticalreport. org

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Friday December 2, 2016 • Gallup Sun

NEWS

Begaye, DNR, NNEPA meet with BLM, BIA officials; Environmental Impact Study on the table Staff Reports

I N DOW ROCK , Ariz. – President Russell Begaye, the Div ision of Natural Resources and the Navajo Nation Environmental P rotect ion A gency met w ith the Bureau of La nd Management and the Bureau of Indian Affairs for a government-to-government consultation regarding the Draft Resource Management Plan and the Environmental Impact Statement for the San Juan Basin Nov. 30. The discussion focused on gathering input prior to presenting an EIS after the com me nt p er io d clo s e s . The chapters of Ojo Encino, Pueblo Pintado, Torreon and Counselor could be affected by mineral extraction pending the EIS. Discussion also focused on the rights, authority and responsibility of each agency and government in addressing surface lease agreements

WASTEWATER | FROM PAGE 12 that aspect a big part of the contract as far as long-term costs go.” • Also at the meeting, council members unanimously approved a reconstruction contract award for the Allison Bridge Reconstruction. An existing bridge that runs north and south over the Rio Puerco River will be replaced as the first phase of the planned Allison Corridor Project. That project, estimated to cost around $40 million, includes a new intercha nge a nd a Highway 66 rail overpass, city public works director Stan Henderson told council members. The estimated cost of the bridge, which will be constructed several feet to the west of the current bridge, is $5 million. Bids on the project went out in October 2016 and FNF Construction of Albuquerque won the bid. • A con st r uct ion contract award was unanimously approved for Oliva Park on Basilio Drive. The planned park is near the Red Rock Mobile Home Park on the east NEWS

President Russell Begaye participated in a government-to-government consultation between the Navajo Nation, the Bureau of Land Management and the Bureau of Indian Affairs regarding the development of an EIS for the San Juan Basin Nov. 30. Photo Credit: Courtesy and master plans regarding minera l development a nd extraction. Victoria Barr, Farmington District Manager with the BLM, said her purpose in attending the consultation was to listen to the President Begaye’s concer ns a nd to prov ide end of Gallup. The total cost for the park, which will include a basketball court, playground equipment and picnic areas, is around $336,000. • A skate board reconstruction contract was unanimously approved. The planned skate park will be located near the Gallup Cultural Center and costs $582,000. Bids on the skate board project went out Nov. 8 and H.O. Construction of Albuquerque won the bid, Henderson said. • A sidewalk improvement project wa s u na n i mously approved by council members. Marcy Park is part of the Debra Drive Public Housing area and is administered by the Gallup Housing Authority. GHA requested city assistance in paying for sidewalk improvements, Henderson stated. Henderson said this was an agenda item because council approval was needed for the project to move forward regarding creating a projected budget. • Mayor Jackie McKinney awarded the constr uction contract awards and said that taken together with the various curb and gutter and other public works projects add up to more than 15 million.

information about the BLM’s plan and planning process. “We will take back the concerns presented and analyze them in the EIS process,” Barr said. “We also look forwa rd to receiv ing for ma l comments from the Navajo Nation government on the EIS

process that we will take into consideration.” Barr noted that the original Notice of Intent stated that the public comment period would end on Dec. 20, but the BLM has extended the deadline 60 days to end on Feb. 20. Because the Draft

Resource Management Plan and EIS could potentially concern mineral extraction on Navajo communities in and around the San Juan Basin, President Begaye is asking all concerned tribal members to participate in public outreaching meetings regarding this issue. He is also asking for tribal members to submit public comments. “This isn’t the first EIS that we’ve participated in that will address scoping and I think it behooves the federal government to make sure we proceed in a non-reckless manner,” President Begaye said. “We want our people’s concerns to be voiced and taken into consideration as this EIS process moves forward.” The BLM will host a publ ic out r e a ch i n g me et i n g regarding the Draft Resource Management Plan and the Env ironmental Impact Statement (EIS) for the San Juan Basin on Dec. 2 at 10 am at the Navajo Nation Museum in Window Rock, Ariz.

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Balderas announces ‘Operation CLOVIS: AG Holiday Home Protection’ Balderas Announces AG FOCUSES ON PROTECTING A FAMILY’S Convicted Murderer HOME INVESTMENT to Stay in Prison

L BUQU ERQU E – At tor ney Genera l He c t o r B a ld e r a s announced a new initiative Dec. 1 aimed at educating and protecting New Mexico consumers: Operation Holiday Home Protection. D u r i n g t he mont h of December, the Office of the Attorney General will be focusing its consumer protection efforts towards keeping New Mexicans in their homes. While this is one of the many areas of consumer protection the Office of the Attorney General focuses on year-round, throughout the month of December the office will be conducting specialized education for New Mexicans on a number of consumer issues ranging from buying a home, avoiding foreclosure, preventing home break-ins, avoiding scams that can threaten financial security, and more. This month will also see

updates to “Keep Your Home New Mex ico”, a prog ra m administered by the Office of the Attorney General to assist New Mexicans who are facing foreclosure or find it hard to make their mortgage payments. “Operation Holiday Home Protection is an opportunity to remind consumers to be diligent with their finances, including avoiding scams and property crimes, which can help them buy a home or stay in their home by avoiding foreclosure,” Balderas said. “The holidays are a time of giving and family, but unfortunately also a time when many families struggle with finances or fall victim to scammers and criminals. Whether New Mexicans are buying gifts, making home improvements or seeking a mortgage, they should be on guard and be informed about exactly what kind of financial transactions they are entering.”

NM Attorney General Hector Balderas In the coming days, the Office of the Attorney General will be releasing more information on many Operation Holiday Home Protection topics, but if you are facing foreclosure or finding it hard to make your mortgage payments, contact the Office of the New Mexico Attorney General toll free at 1 (844) 255-9210. New Mexicans who believe they have been a victim of a scam or predatory business practices should contact the Office of the Attorney General toll free at 1 (844) 255-9210 or visit nmag.gov

L OV I S , N.M . – At t or ney G ener a l Hector Ba ldera s announced Dec. 1 that convicted murderer Albert Jose Ramirez will remain in prison after the New Mexico Supreme Court agreed with the Office of the Attorney General Criminal Appeals Division by affirming his murder conviction. Ramirez was found guilty by a Curry County jury for murdering his mother’s boyfriend at her Clovis home in 2007. Ramirez shot the victim multiple times including bullets to the head as the victim lay on the ground. “A tragedy of this nature involving family members is

hard to understand, but I hope today’s decision can bring closure to the family of the victim and to the Curry County community as Mr. Ramirez will serve out his life sentence in prison,” Balderas said. “I want to thank the Clovis Police Department and the District Attorney’s Office for their work on this case.” Ramirez appealed his conviction citing seven arguments, but the New Mexico Supreme Court disagreed with all of them and affirmed his murder conviction. The Office of the Attorney General Criminal Appeals Division handles all murder conviction appeals in New Mexico.

Albert Jose Ramirez

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Friday December 2, 2016 • Gallup Sun

Inclement weather resulted in slew of accidents Staff Reports

cK i n ley Cou nt y Sher i f f ’s Of f ice repor ted that t hey re sponded to 15 accidents over the Thanksgiving weekend. “Two of those crashes were drivers of vehicles who rolled their vehicles over, and three other drivers were involved in serious crashes and were taken

to the hospital,” Lt. Pat Salazar stated in a press release. “Their conditions are unknown at this time.” A total of 128 citations were issued during this storm for different violations, the press release also states. “The McK inley County Sheriff’s Office urges motorists to slow down during inclement weather conditions,” Salazar concluded. NEWS

Toulouse Oliver to take over as SOS this month By Matthew Reichbach NM Political Report

cer tain income and other requirements. The Begays HOENIX – In late owned and operated compaNove m b e r, S y l v i a nies that provided non-emerBegay, 50, of For t gency medical transportation Defiance, Ariz., was for AHCCCS recipients on the sentenced by U.S. District Navajo reservation. Judge G. Murray Snow to 28 F r om D e c em b er 2 010 months in federal prison, fol- through May 2013, Begay’s lowed by a three-year term company, Hozho Nahasdlii of supervised release, and Health Care at Home, subordered to pay more than mitted more than 24,000 false $2.1 million in restitution. claims to AHCCCS for medAdditionally, Virgil Begay, 53, ical transports that never of Fort Defiance, Ariz., was sen- occurred, generating approxitenced by U.S. District Judge G. mately $2,174,207 in fraudulent Murray Snow to 21 months in payments from AHCCCS to federal prison, followed by a Begay. From May 2012 through three-year term of supervised May 2013, Mr. Begay’s comrelease, and ordered to pay pany, Beauty Way Transport, more than $1.3 million in resti- submitted more than 16,000 tution. The Begays had previ- false claims to AHCCCS for ously pleaded guilty to health medical transports that never care fraud. occurred, generating approxiT he Begays generated mately $1,367,588 in fraudulent millions of dollars in fraudu- payments from AHCCCS to Mr. lent payments to themselves Begay. by falsely billing Arizona’s T he i nvestigation i n Health Care Cost Containment this ca se wa s conducted System for tens of thousands by the Federal Bureau of of medical transports that Investigation. The prosecution never occurred. AHCCCS is was handled by Bridget Minder Arizona’s Medicaid agency that and Peter Sexton, Assistant offers health care programs to U.S. Attorneys, District of Arizona residents who meet Arizona, Phoenix. Staff Reports

aggie Toulouse Oliver will take over the Secretary of State’s office on Dec. 9, according to a release from Brad Winter, the current Secretary of State. She will be sworn into office on that day. Toulouse Oliver, a Democrat, won election to the position this November over Republican Nora Espinoza. Winter became Secretary of State after Gov. Susana Martinez appointed him last December after the resignation of Dianna Duran. Duran resigned shortly before pleading guilty to multiple crimes, including felonies, related to misuse of her campaign funds. The resignation triggered an election this year, when the Secretary of State elections usually take place in non-presidential election years. In a statement, Winter thanked Martinez for the opportunity. “I hope I made a positive difference during my short time. Some of the accomplishments that were made include online voter registration, expanded online services in our corporations bureau, a more transparent campaign reporting system and a successful primary and general election,” Winter said. “I want to thank the staff of the Secretary of State’s office for their hard work and professionalism in serving all citizens of New Mexico as well as my deep appreciation and respect for the county clerks for all the work they do.” Martinez praised Winter for his work as Secretary of State, saying she appreciated “the

Fort Defiance couple sentenced to prison for health billing fraud

NM Secretary of State-elect Maggie Toulouse Oliver integrity and dedication he brought to the job every single day.” In a statement, Secretary-elect Toulouse Oliver thanked voters “for placing their faith and trust in me.” “Now begins the hard work of enacting important reforms that will strengthen transparency and accountability at all levels of government and ensure trust in our political process,” Toulouse Oliver said. Duran was the first Republican elected to the position in decades, and she won reelection against Toulouse Oliver in 2014, but resigned less than a year later. Visit: nmpoliticalreport.com

State auditor initiates special audit to review tax underpayments FOCUS: OFFICE OF THE SUPERINTENDENT OF INSURANCE

Staff Reports

A N TA F E – S t a t e Aud itor T i m Kel ler a n nou nced Nov. 30 that the Office of the State Auditor outlined a plan for the resolution of longsta nd i ng questions about revenue collection at the Office of the Superintendent of Insurance. The plan includes the initiation of an in-depth audit, to be conducted by an independent firm, to determine amounts that may be owed to the state. The plan also includes recommendations for multiagency coordination for oversight of the audit findings and responsibilities for any settlement NEWS

NM State Auditor Tim Keller claims. Earlier this year, auditors reviewed a sample of OSI records and revealed shortcomings with respect to OSI premium tax collection

procedures, indicating that the state may be owed hundreds of millions of dollars. Si nce then, OSI ha s attempted various methods to determine specific amounts due and eventually requested further assistance from oversight agencies. Under the plan, OSA will work with the Legislative F i n a nce Com m it t ee, t he Department of Finance and Administration, and OSI to assist the agency in establishing processes for appropriately calculating and collecting any past underpayments of premiums taxes from insurance providers. “This fall, we shined a bright light on longstanding

questions about whether our state is collecting the revenue it is owed,” State Auditor Tim Keller said. “Rather than waiting and debating, it’s time we step up and help OSI to get to the bottom of it. The stakes could be very high, possibly amounting to hundreds of millions due, as well as possible litigation. The aim of this audit is to come up with defensible calculations in a timely manner so we can do what’s right for New Mexicans and put this issue to rest.” The State Auditor’s Office has taken the following steps: • Mandated a special audit of OSI to develop procedures for calculating historic premium tax liability that can be

used to assess any past shortfalls in revenue collection. The OSA will work with LFC, DFA, and OSI to determine the scope of work, time period, and companies to be examined. • Requested that the Office of the Attorney General handle any related civil or criminal investigations, and approve any proposed settlements with premium taxpayers before such settlements are made with OSI. • Worked cooperatively with other oversight agencies (LFC and DFA) throughout the process. Provided periodic stakeholder updates as appropriate to ensure accountability and timeliness throughout the process.

Gallup Sun • Friday December 2, 2016

OPINIONS ROLL CALL

Stiffing the panhandlers

By Bernie Dotson The problem of panhandling in Gallup probably isn’t going to go away anytime soon. The Gallup Police Department does what it can to tackle the problem, but when you throw in intoxication and alcohol-related problems it becomes a bit much. The best that anybody can do is treat the symptoms of panhandling and we are all thankful for what NCI offers in the form of treatment plans. Addressing the root causes of panhandling and homelessness means battling some age-old enemies: alcoholism, drug

addiction, mental illness, the lack of job skills and anti-social behavior. That means fighting the battle on a variety of fronts and now simply with badges and uniforms. The police, however, should be applauded for taking on a no-tolerance approach to illegal behavior like panhandling that hurts the quality of life particularly in downtown where tourists come to shop and take pictures. Panhandlers are a fixture downtown, trolling the sidewalks, the Downtown Walkway, hitting up people for some spare change. The majority of Gallupians don’t

MADAME G

mind helping people who are down on their luck. But it’s common knowledge that some of the money that panhandlers get goes to buy alcohol and drugs, which exacerbates the problem. Some cities like Gallup have a tolerant attitude toward panhandling during the Christmas holidays. Gallup doesn’t turn its back on people who are down and out especially during winter months and during the holiday period. The Gallup City Council has stepped in to make sure those kinds of problems are avoided. But we must get a firm handle on

what causes conditions such as addiction and alcoholism. As the cops crack down on what causes illegal behavior on the front end, the rest of us must see what additional steps are needed on the back end.

GUIDE TO THE STARS WEEK OF DEC. 2

The Sun and Mercury are in Sagittarius and highlight the need for understanding your place in the larger global context. What’s your legacy? Consider where you are right now, today. Madame G recommends working on one area of your life that needs improvement. Take a class, read, or hire a coach. By taking these small steps forward, you’ll get there. Good luck!

ARIES (March 21-April 19)

CANCER (June 21-July 22)

LIBRA (Sept. 23-Oct.22)

CAPRICORN (Dec. 22-Jan. 19)

Life is a series of stages: you’re born, age, and die. What season of life are you in? During the aging process, your life is rich and varied. You may transition from feelings of optimism to pessimism and glorious moments in between. Madame G suggests evaluating where you are, now. Be grateful. This too shall pass. Look into your heart and discover truth and peace.

You’ve entered an interesting life stage. You may have discovered the path or perhaps you’re still forging through. Consider for a moment that life is more than achievements. You may add another certificate or class to your name, but will that really satisfy your inner longing? What is your definition of success? It may surprise you. Good luck!

Are you authentic? Your strong sense of order often lacks humanity. Believe it or not, you’re human too. You may hide your thoughts better than others (or think you do), but we’re all on this ship together. Small courtesies go a long way. Bring meaning into your life by sharing life with strangers. Open the door for someone. Smile and enjoy. Peace will follow.

Hello tender soul. What are you doing for your own happiness? If you have any pent-up resentments, consider letting them go. Take action and take control over your own life. Don’t worry about what you can’t control such as your boss, president, or life in general. You have no control. All you can do is enjoy the moment with loved ones and laugh at the wind. Smile!

LEO (July 23-Aug. 22)

SCORPIO (Oct. 23-Nov. 21)

Life has taken a few unexpected turns and perhaps a few inevitable ones. It’s easy to look at an old flame or friend with hatred, but consider yourself lucky for having learned the lesson. It’s better late than never. You must learn to forgive. But, don’t forget. Consider the wise old adage: Fool me once shame on you. Fool me twice, shame on me. Lesson learned!

Longing for a little adventure? Perhaps it’s of the emotional or mental variety. Nothing suits the soul better than to curl up with a good book by the fire. It’s a sign of luxury and civilization while still appealing to your primitive self. Let your hair down. If life’s been a little heavy recently, you deserve a warm and fitting adventure. Be bold. Go crazy, read two books!

Life is but a dream. But, it doesn’t have to be a nightmare. Many face hardships and handle them with grace and come out ahead. Some falter and fail even with a King’s fortune. Tony Robbins said: “Everything that happens to you is an asset to your outcome.” What will you do to ensure this? Change your thinking and you’ll change the course of your life. You’ve got this

GEMINI (May 21-June 20)

VIRGO (Aug. 23-Sept. 22)

Are you experiencing an emotional spring or winter? It’s healthy to encounter all seasons. Your life is more than a job, career, or even your family. What makes you unique? Find your why. Seek, search, and learn, this is the path to inner peace. In the process, you’ll help others while discovering hidden inner talents and strengths. Live your strengths!

SAGITTARIUS (Nov. 22-Dec. 21)

PISCES (Feb. 19-March 20)

Your heart seeks connection. This is both a blessing and a curse. Some people take more than you’re willing to offer. They’re emotional vampires or the Dementors from Harry Potter. They’re sucking the life from your soul. Maybe you’re the Dementor and don’t realize it. What can you do? Go out and meet new people. Happiness is not an absurd concept—it’s possible.

Where are, you headed? Not all who wander are lost. But, those without a heading are sure to go nowhere or wind up lost. Often, the challenging times in our lives define us and forge us more and better than the good times. Use this season in your life for selfdiscovery. What do you really want? How will you get there? Take a small step in the right direction and move. Now!

Your time in the sun will prove useful. What steps are you taking to achieve your goals? You may experience a great deal of hope and clarity this week. Your next step will be to work even harder towards your goals. Consider Muhammad Alli’s words: “I hated every minute of training, but I said, ‘Don’t quit. Suffer now and live the rest of your life as a champion.’”

Considering a new life path? Grab hold of it with both hands. Be bold! And take action. Your soul will know what is the right action to take. This is the time. You’re more than ready. If you’re a lover of books and you can think of nothing better than organizing them for the rest of your life—you might be a librarian. If this bores you to tears, smile, life is funny like that.

TAURUS (April 20-May 20)

Friday December 2, 2016 • Gallup Sun

AQUARIUS (Jan. 20-Feb. 18)

OPINIONS

Use caution when lending startup money to family offer to provide what the borrower needs to reach a measurable milestone. If all payments and obligations are honored, offer another loan for the next phase of growth.

By Finance New Mexico

t can cost tens of thousands of dollars to start even a small business, and raising that kind of startup capital is challenging to someone with little savings, a blemished or nonexistent credit history or a loan rejection from a bank. If that someone is a relative, there’s a good chance you’ll be approached for a loan. If you have the means, it’s hard to refuse such a request — especially if you believe your family member has the potential to build a successful, profitable business. The trick to lending money to a relative is to approach it as a business deal — with generosity and encouragement but also a sober, unemotional understanding of the financial and personal risks involved and a firm set of expectations. In this way, you can protect the family relationship and your investment. Don’t do it if you can’t afford to lose the money: Lending money is a calculated risk, and you might never see the cash again. Unlike a traditional lender, however, you can look at the loan as a gift to someone you know and care about and whose ambitions you want to support.

OTHER OPTIONS

Don’t hold your breath waiting for repayment: When repayment obligations are relatively casual and relaxed, as they sometimes are with an in-family loan, borrowers often feel less pressure about paying the money back on time. Some take the debt seriously because they value the personal relationships involved, but others take advantage of the arrangement to pay when they can rather than when they should. Terms of endearment: To allay many of the problems associated with financially

helping a relative’s business goals, play the role of venture capitalist or investor. Ask what the money will be used for and be firm about your terms and expectations. Ask to see a business plan, just as a traditional lender would, for evidence that your family member has researched the market and estimated the potential profitability. Request collateral if you have doubts or a stake in the business if the plan sounds solid. Formalize the arrangement with a contract that specifies how the

money will be used and how progress will be measured — especially if you’ve been offered a stake in the venture in lieu of collateral. Consider the tax implications: The Internal Revenue Service allows tax-free monetary gifts of $14,000 each year, but you’ll be responsible for paying taxes on any monetary gift above that amount that isn’t structured as an interest-bearing loan. If you can’t afford the tax liability, make a counterproposal: Instead of a huge outlay of cash at the start,

If the risk of a fractured family relationship is greater than the anticipated reward, you can refer your relative to a nonprofit community development financial institution. The Loan Fund, Accion and WESST specialize in helping businesses access capital and they provide consulting services along the way. If the business or idea needs more than money, your relative can get help from WESST or the Small Business Development Center network. Besides loans, WESST provides workshops, training and mentoring from its offices in A lbuquerque, La s Cr uces, Roswell, Farmington, Santa Fe and Rio Rancho. The SBDC offers workshops and counseling from its 20 offices located across the state. For more information, visit: financenewmexico.org F in a n c e Ne w Me x i c o assists individuals and businesses with obtaining skills and funding resources for their business or idea.

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Gallup Sun • Friday December 2, 2016

Our public lands must reflect the diversity of our people By James Jimenez, executive director NM Voices for Children

y father and mother r a i s ed my fou r siblings and me to appreciate the beauty of our environment by hiking, mountain climbing, and visiting parks and other natural sites. At the time I didn’t think much about it but when I reflect back on those outings I realize that there weren’t that many people who looked like us visiting or working in the parks. One of the reasons was that the Hispanic population in Oregon was pretty small back then, but another reason was likely that Hispanics didn’t feel the same connection to our public lands that my family did. The good news is that this has changed somewhat but during recent visits to some national parks my wife and I noticed that the diversity of our nation is still not reflected in these places. Organizations like our National Park Service still need to be much bolder in reaching out to racial and ethnic groups. One hundred years ago, the National Park Service (NPS) was charged with not just the preservation of our nation’s natural history and beauty, but of cultural resources, as well— all of it for the “enjoyment, education, and inspiration of this and future generations.” These public spaces enrich our lives in countless ways and are especially important for helping children build a connection to and appreciation for the natural environment in its own right and an understanding of our cultural heritage. In New Mexico, the NPS preserves a wide range of natural and cultural treasures: ancient cultural heritage in monuments like Bandelier and the Gila Cliff Dwellings; more recent culture in places like Salinas Pueblo Mission and Fort Union; the unique Editor, On Saturday, December 03, 2016, there will a recognition gathering in Honor and Support of the NO Dakota Access Pipeline Water Protectors at the Gallup Cultural Center located at 201 East Highway 66

James Jimenez stops for a rest as he hikes the Sandias. Photo Credit: Courtesy geology of Carlsbad Caverns and El Malpais; and some of the state’s breathtaking natural beauty in Valles Caldera and White Sands. While all Americans should feel welcome to enjoy our nation’s natural and cultural treasures, data show that racial and ethnic groups are less likely to view our national parks as part of their heritage and birthright as Americans. This makes them less likely to visit these places. There are many reasons for this, including a lack of racial and ethnic diversity within the NPS staff. Without systemic change, much of the fastest growing segment of our nation’s child population—children of color—will lose out on the educational and enriching benefits of visiting our national parks. With fully three-quarters of New Mexico’s children being members of racial and ethnic groups, this is particularly an issue for our state. The Next 100 Coalition aims to change this and that’s why NM Voices for Children has joined this diverse group of organizations. Our mission is to improve child well-being in New Mexico, particularly with

an aim to ending disparities based on race and ethnicity, and we know that in a very tangible way child well-being is inextricably linked to the well-being of the land. The Coalition has launched a plan for improving the inclusiv it y of ou r n a t io n’s pu bl ic l a nd s . This pla n includes urging President Obama to issue a Presidential Memorandum before he leaves office directing federal land management agencies to put policies and systems into place that would increase diversity among the kinds of sites protected, the stories told there, the communities engaged, and the personnel hired as stewards. With such extraordinary places right in our own backyard, it’s easy to take them for granted and become complacent. But now, more than ever, we need to stand up for their continued preser vation. We also need to fight for expanded inclusivity so that all Americans feel a sense of belonging to the land. Please add your voice to the Next 100 Coalition’s call to the president by signing the petition. Visit: nmvoices.org

from 12 to 5:00 PM. Financial a nd fo o d don a t ion s a r e accepted at noon for transport to Standing Rock, ND. The Gathering is to also educate the public about the ongoing Pinion Pipeline Project in the Eastern Navajo Agency which

will destroy traditional cultural properties near the historical Chaco Canyon site and directly impact water quality and wildlife. INFO: 505-567-8561. Thank you, Mervyn Tilden Church Rock, NM

20 Friday December 2, 2016 • Gallup Sun

Heinrich urges president to halt closure of Oceti Sakowin Camp

ASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Senator Martin Heinrich, D -N.M ., c a l le d on President Obama to work with the Corps of Engineers and the Department of Justice to de-escalate the violence at Camp Oceti Sakowin in North Dakota. In particular, he questioned the decision to close the area to demonstrators of the Dakota Access pipeline on December 5. November 30, 2016 Dear Mr. President: I am gravely concerned about the recent escalation of violence in North Dakota against members of the Standing Rock Sioux Tribe and those standing in solidarity with them. When violent confrontations first occurred earlier this fall, I urged your administration to step in and was thankful that you quickly put a halt to the project until the agencies could engage in renewed tribal consultation with the Standing Rock Sioux Tribe. However, the br uta lity we’ve seen in recent days involving rubber bullets, tear gas, and water cannons, has increasingly put the health and lives of the demonstrators at real risk. The current situation at Camp Oceti Sakowin is unsustainable and dangerous to everyone involved. I implore

U.S. Senator Martin Heinrich you to work with the Corps of Engineers and the Department of Justice to de-escalate the violence at the camp. In particular, I question the decision to close the area to demonstrators on December 5, 2016. This arbitrary date is certain to escalate an already volatile situation and I would urge you to overturn this decision by the Corps of Engineers. I ask that you seek a peaceful resolution to this conflict that respects the desire of the Standing Rock Sioux tribe to protect their water and historic sacred sites. Thank you for your continued commitment to the needs and concerns of Indian Country and for your attention to this urgent issue. Sincerely, MARTIN HEINRICH United States Senator

‘Standing With Standing Rock’

A young woman protesting the Dakota Access Pipeline holds a sign reading “We can’t drink oil! #NoDAPL.” Photo Credit: Pax Ahimsa Gethen OPINIONS

SPORTS 360 Sandia topples Gallup PHOTOS BY RYAN HUDGEONS Sandia High may have won their Nov. 30 non-conference game against the Gallup Bengals, 57-51, but the local team fought hard and had some great plays.

Coach James Voight reviews some strategies during their home game against Sandia Nov. 30.

Nate John (10) looks for a way around Sandiaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s formidable defense. SPORTS

Seth Manuelito (25) dives and gets the ball.

Bengal Seth Manuelito (25) tries to save an out of bounds ball by deflecting off the defender.

Nate John (10) going up for the basket. Gallup Sun â&#x20AC;˘ Friday December 2, 2016

CALENDAR COMMUNITY CALENDAR DEC. 2 - 8, 2016 FRIDAY Dec. 2 RED ROCK BALLOON RALLY Through Dec. 4 at Red Rock Park: the second largest balloon rally in the world, with 200 balloons. The Balloon Rally schedule of events includes mass ascensions, balloon glows and competition with beautiful, hand-crafted Native American arts and crafts. Visit redrockballoonrally. com. INTRODUCTION TO COMPUTER SKILLS 10:30 am-12:30 pm: Class size is limited to 10 participants per session. Registration is required. You can register at the library front desk, call (505) 863-1291, or e-mail: libtrain@gallupnm.gov. Octavia Fellin Public Library, 115 W. Hill Ave. FAMILY MOVIE 4 pm: a family film for everyone to enjoy. Children’s Branch, 200 W. Aztec Ave. This week: Lady and the Tramp SATURDAY Dec. 3 2016 WINTER ARTS & CRAFT FAIR Dec. 3 through 4 at the Larry Brian Mitchell Recreation Center, 700 Montoya Blvd. (505) 7222619. PYRAMID ROCK TRAIL RUN Registration begins at 8 am and costs $30. The event is a fundraiser for the choirs of Rehoboth and happens in conjunction with Red Rock Balloon Rally. Visit rcsnm. org to register.

HOSPITAL AND AMBULATORYBASED DETOXIFICATION AND WITHDRAWAL COURSE 8:30 am to 12:30 pm: Presented by Rehoboth McKinley Christian Health Care Services and the New Mexico Behavioral Health Collaborative. This no-cost course is designed to provide evidence-based guidance on medical detox from drugs and alcohol in emergency, inpatient hospital and outpatient clinical settings. Learn to identify common withdrawal syndromes, triage patients, use an algorithm for outpatient detox, identify local community resources and more. For more info, contact Niles McCall at (505) 863-7333. Held in RMCH third floor solarium. NEW STUDENT ORIENTATION UNM-G 9:30-11:30 am: For all incoming freshmen including transfer students. UNM-G, Student Services and Tech Center Room 200, 700 Gurley Ave. COMMUNITY CHRISTMAS PARADE 1-2 pm: The City of Gallup and The Gallup-McKinley County Chamber of Commerce host the parade, which begins at 1 pm, traveling east on Aztec Avenue, starting on the corner of Sixth Street and Aztec Ave. It then turns on First Street. Santa will be visiting us in the Parade. Overeaters Anonymous Overeater’s Anonymous 12-step meetings. Held every Sunday at 6 to 7 pm. at the Hozho Center, 216 W. Maloney. Open to anybody who has a desire to stop compulsive eating. Contact info. (505) 307-5999, (505) 721-9208, or (505) 870-1483. RIPPY AND THE SILLYETTES Rippy and his daughters, ages 9 and 11, have been paying music together for Continued on page 23

22 Friday December 2, 2016 • Gallup Sun

High School Sports Scoreboard

GALLUP BENGALS Boys Basketball (0-2) 11/30: Sandia vs Gallup 57-51 11/25: Gallup vs Espanola 60-66 Girls Basketball (1-1) 11/22: Valencia vs Gallup 44-47 11/19: Gallup vs Shiprock 65-83 MIYAMURA PATRIOTS Boys Basketball (1-2)

11/29: Miyamura @ Tohatchi 60-35 11/22: Miyamura @ Albuquerque 46-74 11/19: Piedra Vista @ Miyamura 57-51 Girls Basketball (1-1) 11/22: Miyamura @ Albuquerque 54-29 11/19: Miyamura @ Piedra Vista 42-51 REHOBOTH CHRISTIAN LYNXS Boys Basketball (1-0) 11/29: Thoreau @ RCHS

35-42 Girls Basketball (0-1) 11/29: RCHS @ Laguna Acoma 35-58 WINGATE BEARS Girls Basketball (1-1) 11/29: Wingate @ Cuba 74-59 11/22” Wingate @ Robertson 46-74 Scores and overall standings feature Gallup, Miyamura, Wingate, and Rehoboth high school varsity teams only, via maxpreps.com. Other high schools are welcome to submit scores and standings. Submit up-to-date varsity team scores/ standings by Wednesday to: gallupsun@gmail.com

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COMMUNITY CALENDAR DEC. 2 - 8, 2016 Continued from page 22

about eight months. City Center Coffee at 6 pm, 501 S. Third St., behind the Courthouse. SUNDAY Dec. 4 CHURCH OF THE HOLY SPIRIT Join us for the Holy Eucharist. Begins: 10:30 am. For more information, please call (505) 863-4695. Location: 1334 S. Country Club Dr. TUESDAY Dec. 6 HOLIDAY CARD MAKING WITH TECHNOLOGY 3-5 pm: Learn to use Microsoft Publisher to make personal greeting cards for family and friends. Class size is limited to 10 participants per session. Registration is required. You can register at the library Front Desk, call (505) 863-1291. Octavia Fellin Public Library, 115 W. Hill Ave NATHAN N. NEZ, SR. ARTIST EXHIBITION 4-6 pm: A special reception for artist, Nathan N. Nez, Sr., whose work will be on display at the Main Library all month. Octavia Fellin Public Library, 115 W. Hill Ave. WEDNESDAY Dec. 7 TODDLER TIME (AGES 2 TO 4) An active and energetic program for toddlers, featuring music, movement, rhymes, and stories. Starts: 10:30 am. Children’s Branch, 200 W. Aztec Ave. Free MAKER’S CLUB (AGES 7 AND UP) A club for kids interested in science, math, building, and inventing. Each week features a different challenge, project, or experiment. Starts: 5 pm. Children’s Branch, 200 W. Aztec Ave. HOLT HAMILTON FILMS Free weekly movie. Popcorn provided. 5:30-8:30 CALENDAR

pm. Octavia Fellin Public Library, 115 W. Hill Ave. This week: Sands of Iwo Jima OPEN-MIC NIGHT Local talent takes center stage from 7:30 - 9:30 pm at Coal Street Pub, 303 W. Coal Ave. (505) 722-0117. THURSDAY Dec. 8 CRAFTY KIDS (ALL AGES) Fun crafts for the whole family (all ages). Starts at 4 pm. Children’s Branch, 200 W. Aztec Ave. NEIGHBORHOOD MEETING WITH COUNCILOR FRAN PALOCHAK 6-8 pm: We invite residents of District 4 to visit with Councilor Fran Palochak at 6 pm. Councilor Palochak will be there to listen to your concerns. It’s a great opportunity to share ideas and we welcome your compliments and complaints. Residents outside of District 4 are also welcome to attend. Stagecoach Elementary School, 1498 Freedom Dr. ONGOING ARTSCRAWL ArtsCrawl is held the second Saturday of every month from 7 to 9 pm, downtown Gallup. CARS N COFFEE Every Sunday in the Camille’s parking lot from noon to 2 pm. Check out cars – new, old, vintage, and bikes. Cruise at 1:30 pm. Camille’s Sidewalk Cafe, 306 S. Second St. CHILDBIRTH EDUCATION CLASS RMCHC Women’s Health Unit offers childbirth education classes, at no charge, every second Saturday of the month in the RMCH Library, 1901 Red Rock Drive, from 9 am-1 pm. Contact WHU at (505) 863-7026. CITY OF GALLUP’S SUSTAINABLE GALLUP BOARD First Monday of the month, from 3 - 5 pm.

CALENDAR

Community members concerned about conservation, energy, water, recycling, and other environmental issues are welcome. Call Bill Bright at (505) 722-0039 for information. Octavia Fellin Public Library: 115 W. Hill Ave. 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) 726-8068 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 County Humane Society. For more information, please call (505) 863-2616, or email: gmchumanesociety@gmail.com. Location: 1315 Hamilton Rd. GALLUP SOLAR The nonprofit, Gallup Solar, is hosting free Solar 101 classes about all things related to off-grid solar systems on the first three Wednesdays of each month, 6 - 7 pm, at 113 E. Logan Ave. All welcome any week. No registration required. For info call: (505) 728-9246. HABITAT FOR HUMANITY YARD SALE The fundraisers are open 9 am - noon every Saturday. If you have household items to donate or wish to volunteer on construction or another service call Bill Bright at (505) 722-4226, Warehouse Lane off Allison Road. RECYCLING COUNCIL McKinley Citizens Recy-

cling Council is a local nonprofit working to increase recycling through education, community outreach, 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. Note: Not held in December SCHOLARSHIPS The RMCHCS Auxiliary awards scholarships each Fall and Spring semester to students pursuing an education in medical or health careers. Applicants must be full time students, have completed 12 college credit hours, and have at least a 2.0 GPA. Application deadline for the spring 2017 semester is Jan. 3. Applications are available at the UNM-Gallup Financial Aid Office and at the RMCH information desk. Info: (505) 863-7325. SAVE THE DATE FAMILY MOVIE Dec. 9 at 4 pm: a family film for everyone to enjoy. Children’s Branch, 200 W. Aztec Ave. This week: Muppet Christmas Carol WINTER WONDERLAND The Children’s Branch will be hosting its annual Winter Wonderland Celebration on Dec. 10 from 1-4 pm. Join us to make snowman slime and snowflake ornaments. Play library bingo to win books. Find all the snowmen hiding in the library during our snowman scavenger hunt, and Santa might stop by for a visit, too. For more information call (505) 726- 6120. Children’s Branch, 200 W. Aztec Ave. TAIZE’ WORKSHOP Dec. 11, 6:30 pm: Join us for a special Advent

service — a time of rest, silence, and spiritual refreshment before the busyness of the season. Take this opportunity to calm and quiet the soul before the new week starts. Music, chant, Scripture, and candlelight are part of this special service held at Westminster Presbyterian Church on Boardman Drive (151 N.M. 564 near the Orleans Manor Apartments). For more info, call Kathy Mezoff (505) 870-6136. HOLIDAY TOUR OF HOMES Dec. 11: The event is a fundraiser for the Ups & Downs Relay For Life Team of the American Cancer Society. Tour four Beautiful Holiday Decorated Homes in the Gallup community. Meet and Greet at 5 pm at the New Mexico Cancer Center, 2240 College Dr., where refreshments will be served. Vans depart 5:30 pm. Tours end at the New Mexico Cancer Center. Tickets $20, contact: Joyce Graves (505) 863-3075 or Linda Shelton (505) 722-2175. ADOPT A GRANDPARENT Bring joy to local elders by providing them with a gift. Navajo Health Education Program sponsors the event, which is looking for volunteers to adopt a grandparent from Ramah Senior Center, Tohatchi Senior Center, and Lupton Senior Center. Pick up a card from the tree at the NHEP office, (505) 726-8544; wrapped gifts should be dropped off no later than Dec. 12. NEW STUDENT ORIENTATION UNM-G Dec. 14: 2-4 pm; Jan. 7: 9:30-11:30 am. For all incoming freshmen including transfer students. UNM-G, Student Services and Tech Center Room 200, 700 Gurley Ave. 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.

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