Sally Montoya is turning 90 next week and she wants to celebrate, but the pandemic is making it challenging to plan for a birthday party.

Montoya has been residing at Powell Valley Care Center since earlier this year, shortly before the facility was placed on lockdown due to COVID-19 concerns.

Montoya has been involved in volunteer work in the Powell community, working with families in need of assistance — including running Sally’s Boutique, which offered free clothing and home goods during the Christmas season and working with Toys for Tots for many years. She has 70 years of dedicated community service under her belt.

While Sally’s birthday is Monday, June 29, the family is planning to celebrate Sunday, from 10 to 11 a.m. — and they want everyone to join in. Family members are planning to celebrate with a drive-by greeting at the care center, located at 999 Ave. G.

“She would love to see you, as this is as close as we can get,” said her son, Michael Montoya.

There will be signage to guide those wanting to send happy birthday wishes. Sally will be outside the facility sporting her famous smile, escorted by a member of the staff. Family will gather nearby at a safe distance.

Since the pandemic, it has been hard for residents at the center to see visitors.

“We haven’t actually been able to sit down and visit her since March,” said Michael Montoya.

Currently, family members can only visit residents outdoors and by appointment only, under state and federal rules related to the pandemic.