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Making kids’ spirits bright

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Local children line up with Gallup Police Chief Franklin Boyd before the start of the “Shop with a Cop” event at Walmart in Gallup Dec. 14. Photo Credit: Cable Hoover

‘Shop with a Cop’

“Shop with a Cop” used to be a tradition around Gallup.  But that was 12 years ago.  Now, it’s making a comeback, thanks to State Farm agent Chee Montano and his wife Tamaris and Gallup Police Lieutenant Rosanne Morrissette.

The two cooked up a special day for 40 Gallup-McKinley County Schools students who were chosen to receive breakfast at McDonald’s, a shopping trip, a movie at the El Morro Theatre, pizza for lunch, and visits with both Santa Claus and the Grinch Dec. 14.

The third through eighth graders were chosen by the schools because of their circumstances and special needs.

They were joined by members of Gallup police, McKinley County Sheriffs Office, Navajo Nation New Mexico State Police and Ramah police for all the activities, including pictures with the man with the beard.

Tamaris Montano says the team that put this year’s event together will meet in January to talk about becoming a non-profit, so they can raise more money.  The hope is to provide toys, water and diapers to police officers to help children during difficult times and to allow more children opportunities to shop.

By Beth Blakeman
Associate Editor

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