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November 1 - 15 • 2012 A C O M M U N I T Y - I N P U T N E W S PA P E R • BLANCO • BLOOMFIELD • CEDAR HILL • CENTER POINT • FLORA VISTA Vol. 20 No. 21 AZTEC S I N C E 19 93 • NAVA JO DAM • LA PLATA TALON PO BOX 275 • AZTEC, NEW MEXICO 87410 • 505-334-1039 505-334-1039 (main) • 334-1551 (fax/phone) • e-mail: aztecnews@sisna.com • www.aztecnews.com 2012 PRESORTED STANDARD US POSTAGE PAID AZTEC, NM PERMIT #106 FREE twice a month In this issue • Letters: 2,3 • Sudoku: 4 • Living Local: 7 • Bird Talk: 16 • City Chatter: 19 • Crossword Puzzle: 21 • Obits: 21 • Classifieds, Advertisers: 22 • Events: 23 Yee Haw!! Aztec Ruins hosts America Recycles Day At the Aztec Senior Board meeting a few months back, out of the mouth of “Winnie Garnett” herself, played by Sue Dodson, came the words “Wish we could do a Hee Haw or something.” The group began to add to the idea and I said, we need to call it something like YEE HAW… and off the cuff, Yee Haw was born. Yee Haw started running through my mind on a whirlwind journey to November 10. Because of a limited budget, we could not pay for a script. I said to myself…I can do this…How fun and I even have all of the stuff at my ranch for a set; costumes and props, too. My past costuming experiences would be helpful also. I began to listen to funny things people were saying and researched red neck, back wood, hillbilly type jokes and stories... and I began to write and create characters and scenes. All Miss Winnie Garnett played by Sue Dodson the while thinking that if anyone was looking through and crew have been working hard to bring my office window late at you Yee Haw…a musical comedy filled night, they’d have thought with singing, dancing, laughing, and good for sure I’d lost my mind. As times. I sat in front of my computThis is my personal invitation to you to er, I would act out the scenes come share with me Yee Haw as we bring with facial expression and the stage at the Aztec Senior Community different voices and I’m sure Center to life on Saturday, November from an outside view, it was 10th, 7 pm. questionable. Thank you, Cindy Iacovetto I have been overwhelmed Tickets are on sale!! with excitement from the For more info or tickets, see the Yee Seniors and have had an Haw ad on page 18 or call 334-2881 or amazing turnout of “talents.” 801-0373. The set is ready and the cast The fifteenth annual national America Recycles Day (ARD) is November 15, 2012. Aztec Ruins will host an ARD event on Saturday, November 17, 2012 from 10:00 am to 2:00 pm. Bring in all of your recyclables and we will take them in for you - for free! We ask that you sort them into bags of plastics, aluminum, glass, and paper. Please separate out newspaper and plastic bags and flatten all cardboard boxes. We will also take ink/toner cartridges, batteries, and electronics. Aztec Ruins will have an activities table set up near the recycling drop area, so stop by and check it out. Bring the kids with you, and they will be able to participate in recycling based games. Visitors to the event get free gifts for participating. Activities include a Bet the Bottle Tops game (like the jar of jelly beans guessing game), Five Fun Facts game, and a Ready-Set-Sort game. Cards will be available for visitors to fill out and take a “Pledge to Recycle.” All activities are free and suitable for the young (and the young at heart). America Recycles Day was started by the National Recycling Coalition in 1997, and it has been a program of the national nonprofit organization Keep America Beautiful since 2009. Thousands of events are held across the U.S. each year to raise awareness about the importance of recycling and to encourage Americans to sign personal pledges to recycle and buy products made from recycled materials. This is the first year Aztec Ruins National Monument has hosted such an event. The Recycling Committee of Aztec Ruins National Monument, composed of representatives from all divisions of Recycling Committee - Shiana Montanari, Joel Gamache, Charlie Clark, and Vern Hensler the park, worked together to plan the event. The recycling drop area and the activities will be set up by the entrance to Aztec Ruins National Monument. Look for the table with the Ranger. For more information, contact the Visitor Center at 505-334-6174, email azru_information@nps.gov, or visit the park website at www.nps.gov/azru. Aztec Ruins and Veterans Day:We Remember On Veterans Day weekend, November 10 – 12, the National Park Service will be honoring all U.S. veterans and current members of the U.S. Armed Forces by offering three fee-free entrance days at all national parks. Aztec Ruins National Monument will provide complimentary admission all day from 8:00 am – 5:00 pm. Everyone is encouraged to get out and enjoy all the Four Corners national parks and monuments. For more info about Aztec Ruins National Monument, call 505334-6174, find us at nps.gov/azru, or “like” the Facebook page. Pumpkin carving at the Haralson house Bottom row, l-r: Cheyenne Justice, Sara Ambrosino-Aune; Top row: Skyler Pippin (holding Charlotte Ambrosino-Aune), Alexis Haralson, and Breanna Boss, Photo by Margaret Ambrosino PAGE 2 Questions? Answers? Contact Candy, 334-1039 aztecnews@sisna.com NOVEMBER 1 - 15 • 2012 THE MAIL (AND E-MAIL) ROOM Crouch Mesa An Aztec "Bataan Death Christmas history Community Center March” viewing at opens! Historical Society meeting SJ County Historical Society will have their meeting and program November 14 at San Juan College, Room 1908. There will be a short meeting at 6:00 pm followed by a film about the "Bataan Death March.” This film is broken down into two segments. The first is an historical overview followed by interviews with survivors. New Mexico veterans played a big part in this historic event. Many died. This is the 60th anniversary of the Bataan Death March. Every year since, New Mexico remembers. Refreshments will be served. The public is invited. Are you still renting? If you are ready to consider home ownership now is the time to contact the ECHO HOPE Housing Program. You may qualify for a home loan. Interest rates are low and ECHO can evaluate your qualifications for a mortgage. If you have credit problems, ECHO provides counseling to prepare families to qualify for a mortgage. ECHO provides homebuyer education and financial literacy classes. There is no charge for services. The next homebuyer education class is November 10th, Saturday from 9-5 at the Farmington Civic Center. Call today at 505-325-7466 to get more information and to register for classes. How do I qualify for a home? • Credit will be reviewed and we will determine if you need to take care of issues or move forward. • Program requires a 640 credit score • Applicants must have income to support a mortgage • Applicants must have stable employment for at least 2 years prior to applying Nick Garcia’s annual Coloring Book Drive Every year I get people to donate coloring books and crayons for the kids at San Juan Regional Hospital and UNMH. One year while I was in the hospital, I asked one of my nurses what should I donate to the other kids that would be good and she said “coloring books.” She said it would be perfect because they had to either bleach toys or give them away (which is expensive). With coloring books, the kid could pick their own and keep it, and take it home with them. And thus this Coloring Book Donation Drive was born. I personally go to the hospitals and give them to the children. Donation boxes for coloring books and crayons will be at Citizens Bank in Aztec, Aztec Restaurant in Aztec, Avon Store in Farmington, and Barber II in Farmington. You can send them to PO Box 314, Aztec, NM 87410 to my name. Call for more info 334-7185 (home), 486-7595 (cell), or my mother Stephanie, 5168124. Hope to see your donations. Nick Garcia What’s your most memorable Christmas living in Aztec, New Mexico? What was your favorite activity during the holiday season in Aztec? Do you recall any dances you attended at Christmas in Aztec? What was the best toy you received for Christmas? What was your favorite food served? What was your favorite song sung and by what singer? Let’s get this Aztec’s Christmas memories started by sending to TALON your best memories of living in Aztec during the holidays! Remember to shop locally! Angela Watkins Fall Family Reading Night Nov. 7, 2012 5:30 - 6:30 p.m. Park Avenue Elementary Mark your calendars for our first Family Reading night of the 2012-2013 school year! Park Avenue staff will provide a variety of reading activities for all the children in your family! Popcorn, snacks, and drinks will be available for a nominal fee. Raffle tickets will be for sale for 10 cents each or 3 for 25 cents. Our book exchange has been a big hit in the past, so we will continue to provide that service. Bring lightly used books that your children no longer read and trade them for different reading materials! We request that you accompany your children to this event where you can get information about how to help your child read better at home, Title Reading programs at Park Avenue, Tiger Time, and just have a good time with your family. Park Avenue Elementary, 507 S. Park Ave., Aztec, NM. Thanks County Fire Departments My gratitude to San Juan County’s volunteer emergency response teams is boundless. When I decided to turn on my pellet stove mid-day last Thursday (Oct. 26), I soon had a house full of heavy smoke. After turning off the stove, I phoned 911 to report my problem and answered a few simple questions for the dispatcher. Since there were no visible flames, I took time to put on a warm coat, grabbed my cell phone, and moved my car out of the carport attached to my house. Then I pulled a yard chair out to the driveway and sat down to rest. Only a couple of minutes passed before I heard the sirens. Flora Vista, Hart Valley and Lee Acres Fire Departments, San Juan County Deputies and other responders quickly arrived. They found no fire in the attic and determined that the fire/smoke had been caused by debris and soot in my stove pipe. The volunteers were thorough, cautious, courteous and friendly. My home suffered no fire damage, only minor smoke problems. ...I will not use the stove again until after having the chimney cleaned. This was the sixth time in 22 years that I have had a reason to phone 911. Professional assistance has always arrived at my house within a few minutes no matter what hour of the day or night I called. Sincerely grateful, Kay Murray, Flora Vista “Flow State!” Premier November 14th The Durango Winter Sports Foundation presents Warren Miller’s 63rd ski film “Flow State!” premiering November 14th at the Smiley Theatre in Durango. Join us at 5:30 for Zia Burritos and refreshments. 6:30 Showtime. Every year the Warren Miller Films marks the official start of the season for winter sports enthusiasts everywhere. This will be another Sell Out event so get your tickets early at www.Durango WinterSports.org, or from a Durango Winter Sports Athlete. FMI email info@durangowintersports.org, or visit www.durangowintersports.org. The City of Farmington’s Parks, Recreation, and Cultural Affairs is pleased to announce the opening of the Crouch Mesa Community Center, beginning Monday, October 22 at 3:00 p.m. There will be a Grand Opening celebration on Monday, November 5, 2012, from 3:00 to 5:00 p.m. Crouch Mesa Community Center will work closely with other community agencies and the community of Crouch Mesa to provide needed classes and services. Modeled after Sycamore Park Community Center, a computer lab is available for homework, research, and email use. A pool table, ping pong table, and fooseball table are also available for the community to enjoy. A large part of the Crouch Mesa Community Center’s programming will involve after-school activities for children. The Crouch Mesa Community Center is located at 4500 Wildflower Mesa Drive. Hours of operation are Monday through Friday, 3:00 to 6:00 p.m. and Saturday, 10:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. The phone number is (505) 325-9850. FMI about the Crouch Mesa Community Center, call (505) 599-2481. ATTENTION VOTERS In past statewide elections voters had the option to choose a straight party vote for a particular party. This option will not be available on the 2012 General election ballot. Voters are encouraged to designate a choice for each contest. Also, there are 5 Constitutional Amendments and 3 Bond questions on the back of the ballot. I would encourage voters to vote the full ballot to exercise their right as a citizen to the fullest. Debbie Holmes San Juan County Clerk Aztec, New Mexico St. Joseph & Holy Trinity Churches Men’s Club News You are all invited to our Yard Sale fundraiser on Saturday, November 3, 2012, from 9am to 4pm at St. Joseph Parish Hall at 500 N Mesa Verde, Aztec, NM. The cash proceeds from the yard sale will be used to buy food items to fill up this year’s Christmas baskets that the Men’s Club will donate to our less fortunate brothers and sisters in the Aztec and Flora Vista communities. We are asking for donations of any kind that can be sold at the yard sale. We can be contacted for pick-up of any large or bulky items that you cannot bring to the church hall. Please contact us any time prior to the sale date for pick up, or please bring your items to St. Joseph Parish Hall. Contact persons are James Wurzbach (Men’s Club president) at 505-860-2051; Manny Sandoval (vice president) at 505-486-8907; members Leo Olguin at 505-8603058 and Les Ray at 505-330-6153. • T h e TA LO N R e g u l a r s • Susan Barnes, Natural Health What the Blazes, Bert Bennett 334-9271 Recreation with Ryno tryanlane@gmail.com Mike Heal, Chief’s Corner 334-7620 Robert Oxford, Water Rights 330-2284 John Rees, Bird Talk 632-8335 Emma Deyo, SJ Soil & Water 334-3090 Bruce Salisbury 334-2398 Cindy Iacovetto, Senior Center 334-2881 Sustainable Living, Elisa Bird 716-3915 These folks share their time on a regular basis to write in their field of interest. If you have subjects and tidbits they might be interested in, give them a call. If you would like to try your hand at writing, give us a call at 334-1039. Many others have submitted stories, poems and information on an occasional or one-time basis. Thanks to everyone, it sure makes for good reading. Don’t Be Left Out Next Preferred Deadline is November 8th You are encouraged to be early, but send items in even if it’s past deadline - if there’s space, there’s a way! 505-334-1039 TALON, PO Box 275, Aztec 87410 aztecnews@sisna.com Dropbox at Zip & Ship SINCE 1993 TA L O N The Aztec Local News PO Box 275 • Aztec, NM 87410 • 505-334-1039 • fax/voice 334-1551 aztecnews@sisna.com web page: www.aztecnews.com The Aztec Local News (TALON) is published semimonthly, on the 1st and middle of each month. As a community-input newspaper, serving the Aztec, Bloomfield, Cedar Hill, Center Point, Flora Vista, La Plata, Navajo Dam, and Blanco areas, we welcome stories, news, events, poetry, photos, etc. from area residents. 6500 copies of The Aztec Local News are delivered to over 150 locations in the area for free pickup and mailed to those who prefer the convenience of a subscription. Editor & Publisher: Candy Frizzell, 334-1039 Writers: Katee McClure, 330-4616, Debra Mayeux, 320-6512 Advertising info: 505-334-1039 Distribution: Lee Potter, Stephanie Sandoval, Elisa Bird Proofreaders: Linda Lawson, Debbie Israel, Annette Tidwell Abend © Copyright 1993-2012 by The Aztec Local News. All rights reserved. No part of this publication may be reproduced without the written permission of the editor. Printed by The Gallup Independent. The Aztec Local News is a compilation of articles, poems, stories, opinions, etc. written by area residents. The opinions expressed in these articles are those of the individual authors, and do not necessarily reflect those of The Aztec Local News. If information is presented as fact and it is relevant to you, verify it. Although we strive for correctness and honesty, this community paper does not have the resources to check all incoming info. Be aware also that what’s in TALON, ends up on the internet. Subscribe to TALON Make it easy on yourself and get The Aztec Local News delivered to your house or business, relative or friend. Name: __________________________ Address: ____________________ City, State, Zip: ____________ Send a check for $16 / year (24 issues) to: TALON, PO Box 275, Aztec, NM 87410 City of Aztec Pot Hole Hotline 334-7660 THE AZTEC LOCAL NEWS PAGE 3 October 25th court meeting pivotal for Navajo Water Settlement The October 25, 2012 court hearing was very critical for the non-settling parties objecting to the Navajo Water Settlement. The Navajo and United States Attorneys had filed motions to dismiss all of the objectors that failed to file objections and disclosures by September 21, 2012. The San Juan Water Commission and Conoco-Phillips / El Paso Lawyers were the only ones filing correctly. I give credit to the San Juan Water Commission, with San Juan County joining in, their brief arguing no one should be dismissed as the punishment is too harsh. Local attorneys Gary Risley and Rick Tully, along with the Irrigation Ditch Attorney Victor Marshall, and the cities of Bloomfield and Aztec, argued filing a motion to extend the deadline, normally in the 11th Judicial District Court, is sufficient to extend the deadline until the Judge acts on these motions. The Inter Se Judge did not seem to agree with this argument and said you certainly take the risk of dismissal by assuming this. Lucky for all the non-settling parties that were in jeopardy of being dismissed, the Judge ruled no one would be dismissed but no deadlines would be extended now. The State of New Mexico Lawyers did not join the Navajos and United States in the motion to dismiss which was welcome. Any other party filing an objection must have leave of the court to do so. The hearing lasted from 10:30 am to almost 5:00 pm as motions to compel discovery by the cities of Aztec and Bloomfield, and Victor Marshall, Community Ditch Attorney, were heard but mostly were denied. Mr. Marshall was concentrating on discovery that inquired of population on the Navajo Reservation and financial records of the Navajo Indian Irrigation Project and the Navajo Agricultural Products Industry. The settling parties, Navajos, United States, and the State of New Mexico, now have a chance to send out interrogatories, under the discovery phase, to non-settling parties objectors to the settlement. I received interrogatories that are very broad to respond to. I guess I can object to some that are too hard to respond to, but this is new territory for me. Some discussion was about what happens if other deadlines were not met, such as December 31, 2013 when the Inter Se Court is suppose to either approve or disapprove. Arguments were made that the Navajo Nation can pull out of the Settlement Agreement but the United States and the State of New Mexico are not sure where this leaves them. Robert E. Oxford, 505-330-2284 Preparing for our Medical Mission to Haiti by AliceMarie Slaven-Emond, RN, MS, FNP-C Family Nurse Practitioner February 2013 is months off, but the preparation has begun. Team members are contacting each other to see who is going and what the possible flight dates are. The team leader begins rounding up documents, accumulating cost information, communicating with the Universe Institute and Clinic for dorm space, meals needed, getting lists of needed clinic supplies, availability of exam rooms and the surgery suite, ground transportation costs, meals in transit. The orientation of the new team members begins via phone, e-mails, and suggested readings. The CDC is contacted for needed immunizations before leaving. The team’s malaria prescriptions and antibiotics are arranged for. Team members begin begging for supplies and monies to fund the team’s trip. While most all the larger expenses are paid for by the individual team members, some help for fees are acquired by donations. One must pay for extra baggage fees to take supplies along, there are overnight motel costs coming and going, porters who handle the supply bags to be tipped, and border fees for coming and going in and out of both the Dominican Republic and Haiti. Newcomers must get immunizations, get and copy all passports, provide copies of professional licenses. Personally, I have to arrange for other NP’s to take calls from my staff for patients with special needs while I am out. I begin NOW thinking ahead for some patients who will need additional medication or tests coming due when I am out. My cell phone has to have special service added so that I can communicate with the office and family for the 10 days that I am gone. All cotton summer clothing has to be set aside in fall for use in February for the Caribbean “winter” of humidity and 80 degree heat. (The “people of the cold country” (us) run around in summer clothes in February while the Haitians’ have on parkas!) I again renew my commitment to learn some Creole language phrases by studying at night before bed on the Internet’s interactive website for languages. I begin trying to remember those who said that they wanted to help. Some make the packets of enriched peanut butter, which is life saving. Some have offered to purchase vitamins, Tylenol and Motrin. While other bring in sewn pillowcases, dresses for the girl children, donated flip-flops, purchased pocket toys, motel samples of shampoo, conditioner and soaps, etc. And, as we are told, “Ask and you shall receive,” we begin our prayers for supplies and the team members, plus volunteers to help make or gather supplies and monies to finance the trip. Money is needed for air flight, extra baggage costs, meals in transit, motels (x4), air flight, border fees, prescriptions, meal replacement snacks, Haitian and missionary staff “gifts” (lotion, stethoscopes, candy, canned food, watches, office supplies, etc.), uniform scrubs and tennis shoes (we never bring these home again!), expenses of our patients for surgeries, medications and transport home on scooters after surgeries. We try to take money for unplanned giving and uses, for instance, leaving clinic later than expected and exhausted, I take a “taxi-scooter” home. Another time I visited the local nursing home and a start-up orphanage and both needed rice. I bought the rice and got a truck to help me deliver the rice. Often the medical center has a broken “something” and we pay to have it fixed locally. What I ask for the most is prayers that my health remains stable so that I am able to endure the journey and use my skills to relieve pain and promote health to a group of fellow human beings not lucky enough to be born into my American family. Donations are requested to be brought in at the latest by January 15, 2013 so the supplies can be shipped ahead of us if at all possible. Drop offs can be at the HEALTH CENTER – FAMILY CLINIC at 1601 East 20th Street here in Farmington. One can mail donations to the same address with zip 87401. AB&GC’s Keystone ClubA Growing Force in the Community The Aztec Boys & Girls Club’s Keystone Teen Leadership Movement is an after school club that focuses on creating opportunities for local teens in three focus areas: academic success, career preparation and community service. It is led and run by local teens in the Aztec community, and it’s not just about community service for Keystone members; careers, school work and fun are equally important parts of the club. Recently Keystone volunteered with San Juan College at their fall Weatherization project. Members Jeramiah Lucero and Cristal Garcia spent their Saturday morning helping out elderly members of the community prep their homes for the upcoming cold weather, along with providing some much appreciated company. Over the course of the day, Keystone members sealed over a dozen windows from cold winter winds, playing an important role in keeping our senior citizens warm and happy over the winter season. It was a great opportunity for Keystone to build relationships in the community and have fun while doing it. Keystone can’t be successful without the help of the Aztec community. If you have any projects that need some fresh enthusiasm and hardworking volunteers, please contact the Aztec Boys & Girls Club’s Teen Center at 505-334-1448. Kelly Eaves, Agent Home - Auto - Life - Business 1308 W. Aztec Blvd. • Aztec 505-334-2539 keaves@farmersagent.com • For all your insurance needs • ELECTION DAY November 6, 2012 • NATIVE NEW MEXICAN • ACCOMPLISHED ATTORNEY • COMMUNITY LEADER • HONESTY - INTEGRITY - FAIRNESS PAGE 4 NOVEMBER 1 - 15 • 2012 It’s New Mexico! It won’t be long before you need your AIR CONDITIONER during the day and your FURNACE at night... get ready now! Five Star Mechanical 334-7220 Lic. #85419 • Licensed & Insured Total hair care for • Men • Women • Children • Facial waxing • Melanie Bunge 115 Aztec Blvd., Ste. 205 • Aztec Tuesday - Friday: 10 - 6 Saturday and Monday by appointment Call for other days & later appointments November Mobile Blood Drives Aztec/Bloomfield November 09, 2012 – Friday Aztec Community ~ Masonic Lodge Hall 12:30 PM – 5:00 PM 1020 NE Aztec Blvd • Aztec November 14, 2012 San Juan County ~ Fire Ops Training Room 1:00 PM – 4:00 PM 209 South Oliver • Aztec NM • Farmington Office 475 E. 20th ST. Suite A, Farmington Weekly Draw Hours Monday, 1:00 pm – 6:00 pm Tuesday, 1:00 pm – 6:00 pm Wednesday 2:00 pm – 6:00 pm Thursday, CLOSED Friday, 10:00 am – 2:00 pm Saturday, 9:00 am – 1:00 pm Any donor that wishes to donate at any of the New Mexico drives, please call to schedule an appointment or get more information at 325-1505. Monday through Wednesday: 9 AM – 6 PM; Friday and Saturday: 9 AM – 2 PM or sign up online at www.bloodhero.com ***DONORS PLEASE HAVE IDENTIFICATION AT TIME OF DONATION*** Superintendent’s Corner by Kirk M. Carpenter, Superintendent Aztec Schools School Board Districting The Aztec Municipal School Board is made up of five members that were elected at large from within our school district. In our upcoming February 2013 school board election, for the first time ever in Aztec Municipal School District history, and from this point forward, all school board members will be elected from designated single member districts within our school district boundaries. “At large” means that those that wish to run for school board positions can live anywhere in the school district. “Single member districts” means that we must have five districts, each of which must be represented by a member who lives in the defined district. Why the change you ask? Every ten years we have a census count and for the first time we have exceeded a population of 16,000 within our school district boundaries. It is because of that we must form districts. The law reads as follows: “Members of local school boards in districts having a population in excess of sixteen thousand shall reside in and be elected from single-member districts. Once, following every federal decennial census, the local school board shall divide the school district into a number of election districts equal in number to the number of members on the school board. Such election districts shall be contiguous and compact and as equal in population as is practicable; provided that the local school board of any district having a population of sixteen thousand or less may provide for singlemember districts as provided in this section.” According to the census this year we have approximately 16,731, but when we looked closer at the populations within all the precincts we showed a total of 18,241 people within our school district. The reason for the difference, from what we can tell, has to do with the way the school district boundary is defined by the census, but the 18,241 is a more accurate representation of our total population when we consider our actual boundary and the population within the different precincts. As the rule reads we must have equal districts in population, so to get an ideal population size we divided the 18,241 by 5 and came up with an ideal population of 3648 people in each district. The law also reads that no district can be 5% larger or smaller than any other district. We used precincts to form the districts because they already have some well-defined boundaries. Three out of the five districts were easy to form, but when it came to districts four and five, we had to divide up precinct 69 so that we could meet the requirements of the law. We had two different options to consider when splitting up precinct 69: District One Two Three Four Five Precinct 61, 65 and72 59, 60, 63 and 66 58 and 67 57, 55 and part of 69 62, 64, 68, part o f 69, 73, 74 and 76 Estimated Population Option One 3634 3606 3633 3644 3724 At our board meeting in October the board chose option two which has a much cleaner description and break-up of precinct 69. On the map option one looked more appealing, but there were many unnamed roads that had to be used to describe the boundary so the board adopted option two. The following defines the boundaries districts four and five: District Four: Precinct 69 south and west of the line as defined by: From the intersection of County Roads 3000 and 3009 head west on CR 3000 to County Road 3285. North on CR 3285 to unnamed driveway access road. Northeast on unnamed driveway access road to precinct 69 northern boundary (Animas River). Homes on the south side of CR 3000. Estimated Population Option Two 3634 3606 3633 3650 3718 District Five: Precinct 69 north and east of the line as defined by: From the intersection of County Roads 3000 and 3009 head west on CR 3000 to County Road 3285. North on CR 3285 to unnamed driveway access road. Northeast on unnamed driveway access road to precinct 69 northern boundary (Animas River). Homes on the north side of CR 3000 between CR 3009 and CR 3285. We will have maps available for anyone who has a question about what district they reside in at all schools, central office and on our website as well. In a future article I will have more information for you on our February election. Aztec High School receives College Readiness recognition Aztec High School has received the “2012 College Readiness Award” from the New Mexico ACT Council for increasing the number of students taking the ACT Assessment over the past five years and significantly increasing their level of achievement and college readiness. The New Mexico ACT Council is comprised of secondary and postsecondary educators who advise ACT, Inc. on the utilization of ACT programs and services in New Mexico schools and colleges. ACT, Inc. is the not-for-profit organization that provides assessment, research, information, and program management services in the broad areas of education and workforce development and the publisher of the ACT Assessment. The ACT Assessment is the college admissions test that is used and accepted by all colleges nationwide and throughout New Mexico. In 2012, over 75% of New Mexico students took the ACT which is the predominant college admissions and readiness achievement test in New Mexico. According to Karen L. Pennell, Assistant Vice President and ACT Southwest Regional Manager: “The New Mexico ACT Council wanted to recognize those New Mexico high schools that have made significant strides in increasing the college and career readiness of their graduates as demonstrated by their ACT score increases over the past five years. This can only happen as a result of the high school’s faculty and staff efforts and the dedication of Aztec High School students and parents to focus on college and career readiness and raise the level of academic readiness for all students. Only 12 high schools in New Mexico were honored for this superior level of accomplishment. These outstanding New Mexico high schools should be proud of their faculty, staff, and students! Congratulations!” THE AZTEC LOCAL NEWS PAGE 5 Photo courtesy of Photo-Synthesis We’re in the Business of Saving Lives at Vista Nueva by Melissa Maestas, Principal VNHS No, we’re not cardiologists nor nuerosurgeons. We don’t walk around work in long white jackets with stethoscopes hanging from our necks. And, we certainly don’t write prescriptions. But we do save lives – everyday. We are educators at Vista Nueva High School, Aztec’s alternative high school. Aztec Municipal School District was fortunate to have an amazing and captivating presenter during our first days of Teacher In-Service, Dr. Luis Cruz, former principal and superintendent from California. Dr. Cruz captured the audience’s attention with his humor and reallife stories as he reminded each of us that as educators we are in the business of saving lives, student’s lives. Nearly 60 students attend VNHS and every day we witness miracles. Some days it may be something small, like a student thanking a teacher for help or finding new friends. Other days it may be something more significant, like a student recognizing their own potential and passing a class. Once a year, in May, it’s a big one, Seniors graduating. Since its inception 13 years ago, VNHS has graduated more than 122 students. Every student has a story. Some have been attending VNHS since their freshmen year and this is all they know. “My parents put me in Vista my freshmen year. I’m thankful for what they did or I wouldn’t be graduating early. I love Vista!” states junior Shannon Connor. Most started high school at other places and circumstances lead them here. “I had horrible grades at the other school and I’m now on track to graduate early,” boasts junior Alex Sanchez. “Vista Nueva gave me the one-on-one I needed to succeed,” adds sophomore Alyssa Roys. Regardless of what brought them to VNHS every student has a history. Junior Triston Selph admits, “When I showed up to Vista I was a loser. Now I’m on track to graduate.” And, every staff member at VNHS believes we are in the business of saving lives. “Although I have been a teacher for twenty years, I am still humbled at the impact I am able to have towards my students,” says English teacher Anna Marie Dusenbery. “I can guide them to be successful. I make sure I am giving them the best I can for their education.” Social Studies teacher Becky Hotal adds, “Sounds dramatic, saving lives, but we really are! Proof of that are the relationships we form…that I have had a lasting effect on my students.” Every day we are here to serve our students; to offer guidance and direction, to listen to the good stories and the not so good stories, to compliment and correct. We are completely invested in our students. We are a family. “Vista Nueva has helped me gain confidence… it’s like a family,” states sophomore Whitney Hare. Because of the size of VNHS we are able to get to know each student on a personal level; we know what makes them tick and what sets them off. “Vista is hard in the beginning, life-changing in the middle, and family in the end,” says senior Kaylie Martinez. Senior Jesse Chrestman sums it up, “If I had not come to Vista I don’t know what I’d be doing right now. It saved me.” And, senior Claudia Anaya expresses her experience at VNHS in one word, “Great!” So, in a way, we are doctors; triaging, diagnosing problems, administering remedies. Our paychecks aren’t reflective of that of a doctor, but we aren’t in education for the money. We’re here because we want to be, because we want to make a difference in the life of a young person, because we care. We are in the business of saving lives. Tigger saying "Happy Halloween" to ya. - Ken and Tina Brooks, Albuquerque Bruce & Dorothy Salisbury Aztec Presbyterian Church Homesteaders Craft Fair & Quilt Raffle Aztec Presbyterian Church Homesteaders have been busy and we're once again gearing up for our Craft Fair (formerly known as the Craft Bazaar) November 3 • 8am - 1pm. Some of the wonderful handmade items for sale include: ornaments, decorative crosses, birdhouses and placemats, as well as the Quilt Raffle (quilt shown above). We will have an Enchilada Lunch starting at 11:30am with cost as follows: $6.50 adults • $3.00 children (hot dog meal available) 205 N. Church • 334-2816 Married on the first of November, 1952, at Carswell Air Force Base in Fort Worth, Texas with the intention of staying married for a lifetime, they have just returned from a sixtieth anniversary trip to Alaska where they were stationed for many years. They were accompanied on the trip by their daughter Winona Salisbury who lives in Washington State close to her son Dale Salisbury and daughter-in-law Mira Salisbury and four grandsons. Her daughter Marie Salisbury Carter is married to Johnathon Carter who is a US Army MTI and they have two sons. Their son William Salisbury, a long retired Air Force Veteran, lives in California with his wife Cecile Carlton Salisbury and they have three children, Josh, Nino and Elishiba and a number of grandchildren. The Salisbury’s youngest son Bruce Salisbury and his wife Lori Sasser Salisbury live in Farmington, New Mexico and have no children. There are no pending plans to celebrate our marriage since we promised when we wed to celebrate our partnership every day of our lives. Bruce L Salisbury, 25 October 2012 Thanks to VM and Aztec police! Many many thanks go out to Pam from Vanilla Moose and the officers of the Aztec Police Department. The “Helmets for Ice Cream” is sooo very awesome, my kids look forward to summer just like every kiddo does. But mine don't forget for one second that if they are caught with their helmets on while riding their bikes, scooters, and skateboards they are going to get a token for a free ice cream from Vanilla Moose (VM as they call it). It has become second nature for them to be wearing their helmets and I am so grateful for that. So thank you very much and I hope you continue this incentive. Jennifer Reed Code Talker welcomed on “Chester Nez Day” San Juan College’s One Book, One Community Committee and the San Juan College Foundation will host a “Meet the Authors” session with Chester Nez and Judith Schiess Avila, authors of Code Talker: The First and Only Memoir By One of the Original Navajo Code Talkers of WWII, on Thursday, November 1, at 7 p.m. in the Henderson Fine Arts Center Performance Hall. Farmington Mayor Tommy Roberts will present a proclamation naming November 1, 2012 Chester Nez Day. Nez and Avila will be on hand to discuss the book, answer questions and sign copies of the book. The San Juan College Bookstore will have copies of the book available for purchase. In addition to the “Meet the Authors” session, the One Book committee and the San Juan Foundation will welcome Kenji Kawano’s Warrior photo exhibit to the College. The exhibit includes sensitive and personal portraits of Code Talkers in their homes or on their native reservation and has been on display in Japan, the Air Force Academy in Colorado Springs, Colo., and over 50 other locations in the United States. The collection will be on display through November 19. Other One Book events surrounding Code Talker include the Code Talker Expo, November 7 and 8, in the Graphic Arts Foyer. From writing to graphic design – the Expo features works of San Juan College students. There also will be a Code Talker Panel Discussion on November 15, at 7 p.m., in the Suns Room. Navajo language and culture will be discussed by the following panel members: • Dr. Kelly Robison – history professor at SJC will offer a historical background on WWII • Bill Hatch – Art instructor at SJC whose Code Talker art pieces are displayed on campus • Lorraine Begay Manavi – Navajo language and Native studies professor • Barbara Billey – assoc. director of the Library at SJC West and the daughter of Code Talker Wilfred Billey. FMI on the “Meet the Authors” or the Warrior exhibit, call Chris Schipper at 566-3449. Dorothy and Bruce with great grandson Damian Dee Carter PAGE 6 NOVEMBER 1 - 15 • 2012 An introduction to La Llorona, the weeping ghost of the Animas River, Aztec NM by Angela Watkins On October 19th, Rosalia de Arragon came to the Aztec Library and gave an outstanding performance that allowed audience participation. She invited our children to dance with La Llorona. The children had a blast! Rosalia sung songs to open her show and what a beautiful voice she has. Rosalia recalled a story that was told to her as a young girl about an incident that took place in the city. Every evening the darkness comes in a city like Aztec, it hovers about the banks of the Animas river in black shadows. Sometimes these shadows seem to take on a life of their own, a life that has been there for centuries, hiding, watching, waiting—a spirit that wanders up and down the banks of the river, moaning like the wind in the trees, “Hijos. Hijos. Dónde están mis hijos ? Where are my children?” This spirit has a name. She is called La Llorona, the Weeping Woman. Many have seen her in her white burial gown, walking the river’s shore. Some live to tell the story. Some are found floating face down in the river. But La Llorona was not always her name. Many years ago, in Aztec, lived a beautiful young girl named Maria. From the time she was a child, a light seemed to glow about her. In the mornings, when the women of the village gathered at the well to gossip, they would tease Maria about her little boyfriends. Even as a child, Maria would stare back at them and tilt her nose in the air. “The man I marry will not be one of the dirty little poor boys of this town. He will be very rich,” she would proclaim. The women, of course, would have a great laugh. And as Maria grew older, her beauty and her haughtiness grew as well. One day, when Maria was sixteen years old, a stranger rode into town. He was dressed in shiny black leather from head to toe, in the Spanish style. He carried himself tall and rode a smart, black stallion. The women hushed and stared, as he tied his horse to a fig tree near the well. And then, with a flourish, he pulled his guitar from over his shoulder and began to play. The women, without taking their eyes off him, gathered at his feet to listen. Even the birds grew silent. But not Maria. She proudly turned and carried her water jug to the river. As she knelt and watched the river water flow into the clay jug, she saw the stranger’s reflection appear in the water. “You must be Maria,” he said quietly. Maria brushed past him and ran quickly home. But he followed her, and that evening began to strum and sing beneath her window. Maria was hypnotized, as were all women in the handsome young stranger’s presence. Two months later, the two were married. At first, they were a happy couple. Maria insisted they build a large, expensive house on the hill overlooking the town of Aztec, for all to see. Two children were born to them, a handsome young boy and a precious little girl. But soon the wealthy stranger grew bored with life in the small community. He began taking short overnight trips, each one lasting a little longer. And when he returned, Maria would quarrel with him. Lines in her face began to grow, as her beauty turned to jealousy and rage. One morning, as she and the children walked along the river’s edge, she saw her husband returning from a week long journey, driving a fancy new carriage. And sitting by his side was a woman she did not know, a pale woman with a soft, shy beauty. He parked the carriage and lifted the children to sit beside his lady companion. Then he called to the horses and off they rode. An hour later, when they returned, the children were laughing, their pockets filled with sweet candies. Maria’s husband helped the children climb down from the wagon. He glanced briefly at Maria, waved to the children, and rode away. Not once did he acknowledge that Maria was his wife. Maria was furious. She shook her fists in the air. She grabbed her hair and pulled it hard. Then she turned to the children, who had walked to the riverbank. In a fit of anger, Maria pushed her children into the river. Suddenly she came to her senses and realized what she had done. But the children were gone, carried away by the swift, deep current of the river. “Hijos! Hijos!” But it was too late. Maria grabbed a long branch and tried to feel for her children in the water, but the river snatched it from her. All day and well into the night Maria walked the riverbank, calling and crying till she had no voice. The next morning the people of the town found her, lying dead on the muddy shore of the cruel river. They dressed her in a white burial gown and buried Maria, there on the banks of the Animas river, to be close to her children. But Maria did not stay in that grave. Late that evening, the villagers heard a howling wind, a moaning, crying wind coming from the river. A dozen men, carrying torches, gathered. As they approached the river cautiously, they heard the cry. “Hijos! Hijos!” Some of the men claimed they saw her walking in her white burial gown, others said they felt a cold chill on the river’s edge. Only eleven men returned that night. The twelfth man crawled to the road the next morning, red finger marks wrapped around his neck. He told of being pulled to the river by the Weeping Woman, La Llorona. They say her spirit still lives in the river, in all rivers. The Rio Grande, the Guadalupe, the Colorado, and the Animas. If you find yourself, some late evening, on the banks of a river, stay away from that dark, shadowy place on the river’s edge. But, if you stumble into the darkness, if you hear the wind whisper, “Hijos. Where are my children?” - flee. With all your speed, flee. She still seeks her little ones, and in the eyes of La Llorona, we are all her children. Aztec to launch buy-local campaign The City of Aztec has announced plans for a city-wide initiative designed to help spur and build the local economy. November 23 marks the launch of the City’s new “Aztec First! Buy Local” campaign, a 12Days-of-Christmas pilot program that officials say will help keep local dollars local, as well as promote leading businesses in the Aztec area. “Buy-local campaigns are proven mainstays in promoting independent businesses and enhancing economic development,” said City of Aztec Mayor Sally Burbridge. “Our ‘Aztec First!’ campaign will do just that. It will launch right after Thanksgiving on Black Friday, when holiday shopping kicks into high gear and when, we hope, everyone remembers that dollars spent locally have important ramifications toward keeping communities vital.” According to Burbridge, the pilot program will feature 12 Aztec businesses, all of which will be videoed and promoted on the City of Aztec’s website, www.aztecnm.gov, on individual business websites, in flyers and posters, and in public service announcements. Starting Nov. 23, the City will release a different “Aztec First!” video for 12 consecutive days, hence the 12 Days of Christmas theme. Featured businesses will include Aztec Floral Design and Gifts, Aztec Hardware, Cottonwood Cycles, Crash Music, Feat of Clay, Finish Line Graphics, La Roux Hair Salon, Main Street Spirit, Premier Fitness, Quilt It! Ya-Ya and Trinity Diving. “Re-circulating money by shopping and buying local helps keep our community healthy. That’s the bottom line,” said Burbridge. “For your gift giving needs this holiday season, please shop ‘Aztec First!’” Here are five additional reasons for buying local*: Stable Money Flow: When individuals shop locally, their dollars will be invested back into the community. Rather than sending the profits to an unseen corporate headquarters, business owners reinvest their profits into other local operations. This cycle nurtures the lives of business owners, manufacturers, and customers of the same community. Job Production: Although large, chain stores boast the job opportunities they bring to a community, they don't brag about their turnover rates. With local businesses, individuals are able to find a stable job where they feel appreciated. Employees can work side-by-side with the owner and know their work is worthwhile. One-of-a-kind Selection: Walk into any Target or WalMart in America, and you are going to find the same products and the same store setup. This cookie-cutter business plan can be boring; local businesses provide a unique selection of products that you may not be able to find anywhere else. Community Building: In general, the employees and managers of large chain stores will not remember the names of all of their customers; it's just not feasible. However, locally owned small businesses can talk to you like a friend because you are their friend. Shopping locally lets you buy the products you need without feeling like an anonymous customer. Non-profit Support: Many thriving local businesses will give back to the community that has made them so successful. Churches, sports teams, children's organizations and many other non-profits greatly benefit from the success of local businesses—which the entire community can then enjoy. * Courtesy of keepitquerque.org’s Becky Raichur. THE AZTEC LOCAL NEWS PAGE 7 Living Local in San Juan County Elisa Bird - Resource Specialist Ebirddesign@yahoo.com Winterizing your garden and preparing soil for spring planting Now is the time to begin to winterize your garden and prepare your soil for next spring’s planting. Kathleen Watts, of Watts Southwest Creations, creator of soaps, lotions and hand-crafted items, is also a great gardener making beautiful creations out of the many gourds she grows. Recently, Kathleen shared how she transitions her garden for winter time; after taking up drip pipes, she removes the plant stocks, and the ones that have diseases go to the trash with the rest going to the compost. Adding organic matter to the soil is very important. Watts’ soil amending is very interesting, after rototilling in mature compost she seeds her garden with winter rye, a green manure crop. Green manure are crops grown for soil coverage and as a source for organic matter that can be incorporated back into the soil in spring. The most popular green manure crops are winter wheat, barley, oats, and rye. One of the easiest ways to add organic matter to your garden soil is to apply manure especially from llama and sheep. A NMSU publication recommends “fresh manure should only be applied in the fall so it has the time to break down in the soil. Composted manures are preferred because fresh manure can introduce weed seed into the garden, and fresh manure applied in the spring often burns young seedlings due to the high salt content of the manure.” Another easy way to add organic matter to the soil is to simply apply compost. Compost is often made from leaves, grass clippings, food wastes, and garden vegetable waste from the previous growing season. For the gardens or the areas my roommate Meli and I plan to plant next year, I am going to cover with compost, straw and manure and slightly turn over. Paula Davis, Farmington Growers Market Manager, digs trenches in her garden, fills them with food waste and covers them with soil. When it comes to garden vegetable waste Davis throws in the trash broccoli, collard, and cabbage because they are known for carrying diseases that affect other plants. Her motto is – if in doubt, throw it out. She also leaves some stalks standing in the ground until spring for the beneficial lady bugs and preying mantis offspring to hangout over the winter. Davis also takes extra steps to protect the worms in her garden by covering the compost applied to the garden with dirt. For worms to compost anything, material has to be covered with dirt. Additionally, it is important to water once or twice a week as worms can’t function in dry earth. Finally, adding organic matter to clay soils aerates these soils and improves their drainage. Adding organic matter to a sandy soil improves both its water-holding capacity and the ability of the soil to retain nutrients for plant uptake. For more info, you can contact the County Extension at 334-9496 or just go on line to NMSU website, or go to our local libraries. So here’s to caring for our garden soil and gardens to be and to a future of bounty next year in the beautiful Middle San Juan River Watershed. Happy 7th Anniversary to Sustainable San Juan! Come join us for Carrot Cake and Apple Juice on Monday, November 12 Aztec Library, 6-8 Environmental Assessment on Proposed Jicarilla Wild Horse Management -Information Meeting PlannedThe Bureau of Land Management (BLM) Farmington Field Office has released a preliminary environmental assessment (EA) on proposed Jicarilla Wild Horse Management, including a proposal to gather wild horses. The EA can be found at: www.blm.gov/nm/st/en/fo/ Farmington_Field_Office/ffo_nepa/ffo_range_eas_open. html. The public comment period will end on November 21, 2012. The BLM has scheduled an information meeting about the preliminary EA. The meeting will be held from 4 - 7 p.m., on Monday, November 5, 2012, at San Juan College in Farmington. The meeting will be in rooms 9010 and 9012 at the college. The public will be able to discuss all aspects of the gather with BLM specialists. The horse gather is tentatively planned for winter 2013. Currently, the herd is estimated at about 400 horses that move seasonally between BLM and U.S. Forest Service lands in northwest New Mexico. The appropriate management level (AML) for the Jicarilla Wild Horse Herd is 73–128 horses. The Jicarilla Wild Horse Herd’s AML is set by determining what the appropriate number of horses should be to sustain healthy land, a healthy horse herd, as well as balancing multiple-use of public lands. Methods for gathering the horses may include baiting, trapping, and using a helicopter. Gathered horses will be put in a temporary holding facility and receive health evaluations for potential adoption through the BLM Wild Horse and Burro Adoption Program. Horses removed from the range, but not selected for adoption, will be cared for in long-term pastures, where they retain their “wild” status and protection under the 1971 Wild Free-Roaming Horses and Burros Act. The BLM plans to administer an anti-fertility drug to female horses not selected for adoption and released back on to the range. Comment forms will be available at the meeting so attendees can provide their written comments about the EA. Comments can also be submitted by email to blm_nm_ffo_comments@blm.gov, or by writing the BLM Farmington Field Office, Attention: Jicarilla Wild Horse Management, 6251 College Boulevard, Suite A, Farmington, NM 87402. Comments must be emailed or postmarked by November 21, 2012. FMI about the meeting, please contact Bill Papich at 505-320-5161. Thank you to all our great Farmers’ Markets and growers! We will miss you and look forward to another great Market season next summer. Knowing of the winter of bareness ahead, Knowing how we will miss their beauty, and color and lushness, The cottonwoods adorn us with a final goodbye of shimmering yellow and gold, As their gift to take with us into the long winter before. photo and poem by Elisa Bird If you've lost (or found) an animal in San Juan County, try San Juan Animal League 325-3366 Farmington Animal Shelter 599-1098 Aztec Animal Shelter/Control 334-6819 Animal Friends Humane Assoc. 334-2087 PAGE 8 NOVEMBER 1 - 15 • 2012 The Book Nook Chautauqua Event Join us November 5th for a Chautauqua event to be held at the Aztec Community/Senior Center to welcome Sunny Dooley as she tells us Dine (Navajo) Blessingway Stories. The program will begin at 6:00 pm and is free of charge. Dooley is a storyteller, poet, playwright, lecturer, and folksinger from the Four Corners region from a community called Chi Chil' Tah (Where the Oaks Grow). She has been telling the Origin and Creation Stories of the Dine' people for the past 20 years. Your Aztec Library news! aztecpl@aztecnm.gov • www.azteclibrary.org 319 S. Ash, 505-334-7657 Fire Safety Presentation Need a New Author? Why not try…. Mr. Jimmy Crawford from the Farmington Fire Department gave a special presentation to our wee ones at the Aztec Library. He presented to us 19 years of experience in fire fighting and what it is like to be an expert fire truck driver. He helped our little ones understand what to do in case of a fire as well as educated our adults on fire safety and requirements of being a firemen. Household tips were also discussed and we all went away very please and armed with life saving information. Mr. Crawford also brought goodies to our children and that made him a friend for life! Thank you Mr. Crawford. M. L. Stedman The Light Between Oceans After four harrowing years on the Western Front, Tom Sherbourne returns to Australia and takes a job as the lighthouse keeper on Janus Rock, nearly half a day’s journey from the coast. To this isolated island, where the supply boat comes once a season and shore leaves are granted every other year at best, Tom brings a young, bold, and loving wife, Isabel. Years later, after two miscarriages and one stillbirth, the grieving Isabel hears a baby’s cries on the wind. A boat has washed up onshore carrying a dead man and a living baby. Tom, whose records as a lighthouse keeper are meticulous and whose moral principles have withstood a horrific war, wants to report the man and infant immediately. But Isabel has taken the tiny baby to her breast. Against Tom’s judgment, they claim her as their own and name her Lucy. When she is two, Tom and Isabel return to the mainland and are reminded that there are other people in the world. Their choice has devastated one of them. M.L. Stedman’s mesmerizing, beautifully written novel seduces us into accommodating Isabel’s decision to keep this “gift from God.” And we are swept into a story about extraordinarily compelling characters seeking to find their North Star in a world where there is no right answer, where justice for one person is another’s tragic loss. The Light Between Oceans is exquisite and unforgettable, a deeply moving novel. Holiday Hours The library hours for the Thanksgiving holiday are as follows: Wednesday November 21 9:00-6:00 Thursday November 22 Closed Friday November 23 Closed The bookdrop is available at the back of the building for book returns. Teen Night @ Your Library On the first Thursday of the month (from September-April, November 1st this month) the library will host a teen night. There will be quiet study space for students needing some solitude for study. There will also be talent shows, game nights, crafts and digital resources available to learn. Join us for some evenings of fun! Bring a friend and get a prize! The library will be closed to the public and will only be available to teens ages 13-19 from 6:00-8:00 p.m. For more information you can call 3347657 or email aztecpl@aztecnm.gov and we will answer all your questions! Free Computer Classes Sabrina Hood, Angela Watkins, Linda Yazzie, Wil Yazzie, Carlos Bahe “Total Pardon” On October 13th actor and author Wil Yazzie and his wife Linda gave a presentation at the Aztec Library on his book “Total Pardon.” An inmate who starts out with a pen pal and ends up with a wife - that's sketchy territory. But in Wil and Linda Yazzie's case, it turned out to be sacred territory. She was a devout Christian. He was a hopeless alcoholic whose addictions robbed him of decades of his life, yet he goes from career criminal to Hollywood actor and devoted minister with a message. If it weren't for the unconditional love and faithful prayers of his wife Linda, Wil would be dead - like most of his drinking buddies. “Total Pardon” is an extraordinary, true reversal of destiny story that offers radical hope for those struggling with addiction. Book signing was available. The new class schedule will have classes available the 2nd and 3rd week of each month (Sept.-May) with the 2nd week being beginner’s classes-Monday & Wednesday 1:00-4:00 p.m. and the 3rd week for intermediate classes-Tuesday & Thursday from 3:00-6:00 p.m. Classes Include: • Computer Skills • Microsoft Office Suite • Intro to the Internet • Computer maintenance • Social Media For more information call 334-7657 or email aztecpl@aztecnm.gov. One Click Training (Tue, Nov 27, 2012 1:00 - 2:00 PM) This 45-minute program also includes a complete tour of the service and shows patrons how to create an account, install the OneClickdigital Media Manager, search for content, manage checkouts, and download and transfer audiobooks to listening devices. Storytime @ Your Library The Aztec Public Library offers preschool story time on Thursdays from 9:30-10:30. Join us for stories, crafts, snacks and good fun @ your library. It’s a good chance for children and mothers to socialize and get to know one another. November 1, 8, 15, 29 Through the use of a wide range of high-quality picture books, songs, poetry, fingerplays, puppets and crafts, public libraries have been making literacy fun! Questions? Call Miss Angela at 334-7695. Chautauqua DVDs available for sale The book Code Talker by Chester Nez was selected for the San Juan College One Book One Community project this year. Our Chautauqua event featuring Judith Avila with special guest Chester Nez, the last of the original Code Talkers, was recorded and is now available for purchase from the Aztec Public Library. The price of the DVD is $10.00 plus $3.00 shipping if you need it mailed to you. Questions? Call 334-7657. Diagnostic Specialists, Right Here. One Book One Community “Hi. I’m Loretta Custard. I’m a nuclear medicine tech at San Juan Regional Medical Center. If you’ve had a nuclear medicine test done in Farmington, I may have administered your test and worked on the imaging that enabled our radiologists to pinpoint their diagnosis.” At San Juan Regional Medical Center we invest in state-of-the-art diagnostics, and are accredited by the American College of Radiology. Our team includes highly-skilled diagnostic specialists and radiologists. We offer minimal wait time, same day appointments, and a healing environment. San Juan Regional Medical Center, caring for the Four Corners since 1910. Call 505.609.6228 to schedule your appointment. • One Book One Community is based on the philosophy that a community that opens a book together closes it in greater harmony. It was developed to build a sense of community while promoting literacy. One Book, One Community is intended to promote campus and community dialogue through curriculum projects, discussions and a presentation by the author. San Juan College will present “Code Talker” with Chester Nez and co-author Judith Avila on November 1st at 7:00 PM at the Henderson Fine Arts building on San Juan College Campus. • Join us November 5th at 6:00 PM for a Chautauqua event sponsored by New Mexico Humanities Council and Aztec Public Library to be held at the Aztec Senior/Community Center, 101 S. Park, Aztec. Sunny Dooley will present the worldview of the Diné people and their relationships with their surroundings. She will tell Origins stories in Navajo and English. These are the social versions of the sacred chants. HealthCare.gov Take health care into your own hands www.sanjuanregional.com Find Insurance Options http://finder.healthcare.gov/ THE AZTEC LOCAL NEWS PAGE 9 Aztec Senior Center News Quality parts and service for that special car ~November 2012~ What’s cookin’ at the Aztec Senior Center? 19th Hamburger Steak 1st Ham 20th Beans & Ham 2nd RC Beef Enchiladas 21st GC Beef Enchilada 5th Baked Chicken 22nd CLOSED 6th Hamburger Mac 23rd CLOSED 7th Chicken Salad 26th Roast Beef 8th Baked Fish Sandwiches 9th Spaghetti & Sauce 27th Pork Roast 12th CLOSED 28th Roast Beef 13th Hidden Chicken Legs 29th Chicken n Rice 14th Hamburger 30th GC Hamburger 15th Turkey Dinner 16th Taco Go to our city web site for a full disclosure of our menu and activity calendar. www.aztecnm.gov What’s happening at the Aztec Senior Community Center? • See our Senior Shenanigans on this page. 101 S. Park Ave. 505-334-2881 • 801-0373 Menu hotline 505-334-7618 E-mail: ciacovetto@aztecnm.gov www.aztecnm.gov 112 West Chaco • Aztec, NM • 505-334-9407 Mon-Fri: 7:30 - 5:30 • Sat: 8 - 6 www.dusenberys.com Robert Retherford, Attorney at Law, P.C. FMI, call Cindy 334-2881/801-0373. Here’s a fun-for-health idea for seniors, join the belly dancing class. We are never too old to flex our muscles, loosen our limbs, open our minds and begin a new beginning. Jessie Huntington did just that. She followed her dream and began belly dancing at age sixty-seven to surprise her husband on his seventieth birthday. (See “Belly Dancing a La Aztec,” page 24, this issue. ) If belly dancing costumes are not the type of fun clothes you have always dreamed about, perhaps you dressed up for our Halloween contest. Maybe you were the one who won a prize for the most humorous or the most scariest or the most original. Hey! Were you the one who had the most fun? Maybe your dream is about singing. You can open your lungs and breathe a little better by joining our new once-a-month karaoke. The first turnout was small, but word is spreading rapidly and the November karaoke promises to entertain a much larger audience. Or maybe you are one of the many people who dream about singing, dancing, acting and just being plain silly. You can do all that in our Saturday night, live on stage, November 10th YEE HAW! show. People from all over the Four Corners are joining in the fun to make this one heck of a spectacular show. There are hillbillies, square dancers, wranglers, hoe downers, jokes, skits, babies being born and much more. The quilting group has completed the patchwork curtains. The props have all been made and put into place. Rehearsals have been going on every Friday night for the last several weeks. The fun starts here. Those seniors who have been dreaming of finding a permanent instructor for the arts and crafts classes have found one. New to the Center, Judy Swain has been conducting the Tuesday morning class since the beginning of October and has agreed to continue. The Gift of Love Club is expected to resume its former status. The committee for the upcoming Aztec Christmas Arts and Crafts Fair (ACA&CF) dreams of hosting a really great show. The members have all been hard at work, not only on the many and varied handcrafted items they make, but also on all the behind-the-scenes details. Vendor spaces have been filled. The snack bar menu has changed. The number of jewelry vendors has been limited to four. A greater variety of hand crafted items will be presented. New advertising avenues are being pursued. And, quite possibly, a few new surprises are being implemented to give new depth, fun and merriment to the show. Nicky Garcia, a young cancer victim himself, now dreams of collecting coloring books for other hospitalized cancer children and has been doing so for several years. You can meet this teenager in person December 8th when you bring crayons and coloring books to the Center. Sherry’s dream has been to locate someone to do the blood sugar sticks and says she may have found just the right person(s), but we still need a weekly volunteer to do the oxygen level and blood pressure checks. Homeless Veterans dream of warm clothing and clean underwear. Aztec seniors helped out last month during “Operation Stand Down” by setting up a collection box. Among the items donated were T-shirts, socks, underwear, electric razors, toothpaste, toothbrushes, etc. As you can see, “getting older” does not mean “over the hill.” Senior citizens still lead active, fulfilling lives. The inspirational movie presented in October proves just that. “The World’s Fastest Indian,” is a true story based on John Munro, an eighty-year-old man riding an Indian Scout motorcycle, about his trials and his triumphs and going on to shatter previous world speed records at the Bonneville Salt Flats. His faith in himself and his dogged determination sets a fine example of what amazing feats can be accomplished when, at any age, we set our minds and hearts to fulfilling our dreams. So tell us now, what dreams do you have? Written by Marie Merrick Music for Masada This fun and important fundraiser is to support Masada House, a non-profit transitional living home for women. Suppose a close friend or daughter had just gotten out of treatment for drug or alcohol abuse. You'd want to help her. You can help by attending this hometown concert with musicians and groups After Midnight, Charles Stacy, Amber Swenk, Mad Haggis, Cecilia Taulbee, Monica Leaming and Sheldon and Friends on Saturday, November 3 at the historic Totah Theater on Main Street in downtown Farmington. Doors open at 6:30 PM so you have time to visit the silent auction. Tickets are only $10. For further information or tickets, phone 505-325-9205. Trotting Turkeys and Wobbling Gobblers The department of Parks, Recreation, & Cultural Affairs along with the Farmington Downtown Association will host Farmington’s second Turkey Trot and Gobble Wobble in Historic Downtown Farmington on Saturday, November 17 at 9:00 a.m. Turkey Trots are a fun American tradition found in cities all across the country on or around the Thanksgiving holiday each year. The event is a footrace or fun run that sometimes includes a walk. The tradition began with Americans anticipating indulgent Thanksgiving feasts and running in turkey trots to burn calories before the big meal. The oldest continuously-running Turkey Trot happens each year since 1896 in Buffalo, NY. Many of the events use the proceeds to benefit a cause. The Farmington Turkey Trot will be a 5K race and the Gobble Wobble will be a 2mile walk – both will start and finish at Orchard Park in Downtown Farmington. The proceeds of the event will go to benefit the soon-to-be-built Regional Animal Shelter. The deadline to enter the race and walk is Tuesday, November 13. Registration is underway now at the Farmington Recreation Center as well as online at www.fmtn.org/prca. Registration costs $20.00 and includes an event t-shirt and lunch. The day’s events from 9:00 a.m. to 11:00 a.m. will include the run, walk, carnival games, crafts, kids’ gobble call contest, Turkey Bingo, Turkey Walk costume contest, awards, and lunch. Orchard Park is located at the intersection of Main and Orchard in Farmington, NM. For additional information on the Turkey Trot and Gobble Wobble, contact the Farmington Recreation Center at (505) 599-1184. Social Security Disability, Small Businesses, Probate, Wills, and other Estate-Planning With a new Fine Art Gallery 120 East Chaco Street, Aztec • 334-5750 Junk in Your Trunk Thrift Store New items every day! 301 S. Main • Aztec 505-258-5190 Monday - Friday: 10 - 4 Saturday: 10 - 2 • Closed Sunday Specials Monday - Friday 302 N. 1st St. Bloomfield • 632-8579 Phone cards available (Order your AVON products here!) PAGE 10 NOVEMBER 1 - 15 • 2012 TALON is Read by Far Out People on Cadillac Mountain! Joyce Headrick, Mary Hayes, and Jim and Gail Williams read TALON atop Cadillac Mountain, Acadia National Park, near Bar Harbor, on a cruise from Quebec City to Boston, in the Fall of 2012. Aztec runners compete in 29th Annual Duke City Marathon October 20 & 21 in Albuquerque Beautiful 3 BR, 2 BA adobe home on approximately 5 acres. Fantastic mountain views, beautiful courtyard and fountain. These are just a few of the many features that make this home a truly must see. Located approx. 4 miles from Aztec, #20 Road 2578. Schedule your personal viewing today! You won't be disappointed. Call today and speak to one of our experienced realtors 100 N. Main Aztec 334-6187 Runners Stephen Parks, Ambrose Teasyatwho, JR, Sam Parks, Peyton Parks, Naomi Teasyatwho, Ruben Teasyatwho, and Melissa participated in the annual marathon in Albuquerque. Submitted by Josh Ray *Vaccinations are provided on a first come, first served basis and offered until clinic supplies run out. No appointment necessary. Adults 18 and Older Farmington Chamber Health and Wellness Fair Animas Valley Mall • 9:00 a.m. Saturday, October 20 4601 East Main Street, Farmington Bloomfield Senior Center 9:00 a.m. Tuesday, October 23 American Home Plaza – Drive Thru Clinic 9:00 a.m. Saturday, October 27 Aztec Civic/Senior Center 9:00 a.m. Thursday, November 1 Lower Valley Senior Center 9:00 a.m. Thursday, November 8 San Juan Health Partners Medical Office Building 6:00 p.m. Tuesday, November 13 HHPC at San Juan College 9:00 a.m. Thursday, November 15 124 West Ash Avenue, Bloomfield 1001 West Broadway, Farmington 101 South Park Avenue, Aztec 17 CR 6668, Fruitland 407 South Schwartz, Farmington 4601 College Blvd, Farmington 801 West Maple Street • Farmington, New Mexico 87401 505.609.2000 www.sanjuanregional.com Naomi Teasyatwho placed 2nd in her age group and Ruben Teasyatwho placed 3rd in his age group in the 5k run. For more info, check out www.dukecitymarathon.com. THE AZTEC LOCAL NEWS Bloomfield Reads Bloomfield Public Library will be hosting a discussion for the book, Grandmother Spider by James D. Doss, on November 8, 2012 at 5:30pm. If you haven’t read the book yet and wish to participate the book can be checked out at the front desk. Please come and join in on the fun!!! Call the library at 505-632-8315 for more information regarding the discussion group. Harley’s Humor This blonde decides one day that she is sick and tired of all these blonde jokes and how all blondes are perceived as stupid. So, she decides to show her husband that blondes really are smart. While her husband is off at work, she decides that she is going to paint a couple of rooms in the house. The next day, right after her husband leaves for work, she gets down to the task at hand. Her husband arrives home at 5:30 and smells the distinctive smell of paint. He walks into the living room and finds his wife lying on the floor in a pool of sweat. He notices that she is wearing a heavy parka and a leather jacket at the same time. He goes over and asks her if she is OK. She replies yes. He asks what she is doing and she replies that she wanted to prove to him that not all blonde women are dumb, and she wanted to do it by painting in the house. He then asks her why she has a parka over her leather jacket. She replies that she was reading the directions on the paint can and it said... FOR BEST RESULTS, PUT ON TWO COATS. PAGE 11 McDaniel steps down A long standing proponent of economic development in San Juan County will step down in order to focus on her roles as a county commissioner and family caretaker. Margaret McDaniel, a key player in economic development for the entire San Juan community, will spend the remainder of her time with Four Corners Economic Development (4CED) wrapping up loose ends and getting things ready for the next chapter of the organization. “I feel good about the assistance SJEDS provided to local companies and prospects looking to relocate in our community,” said McDaniel, “but now it is time to step away and focus on other obligations.” McDaniel will remain with 4CED through Nov. 2, 2012, but will continue to be available for assistance as the organization progresses toward hiring a CEO and implementing 4CED’s new structure and goals. Over the past two years, economic development in San Juan County has undergone a wide-reaching refocus that has taken the efforts of the past 20 years, the combined effort from local businesses, and solid research to develop a new direction for San Juan County’s economic future. McDaniel has been Executive Director of San Juan Economic Development Service since 1989. Through her leadership, SJEDS focused on diversifying the economy of San Juan County through connecting local businesses to resources. This focus has left an indelible legacy spanning more than two decades. Her impressive accomplishments include the creation of the EDGE Awards, which spotlight and recognize businesses that exhibit Economic Development, Growth and Excellence in San Juan County. Also, her economic development marketing efforts have received critical acclaim and numerous awards at the state level for overall planning and creative content. Margaret has also provided leadership in various capacities with statewide economic development organizations such as the New Mexico Rural Alliance and the NM IDEA professional economic development organization and statewide initiatives related to economic development in New Mexico. “Margaret has created a solid foundation for economic development in San Juan County and it is only because of her perseverance that we are able to take the next steps into a new era for the San Juan community,” said Sally Burbridge, Chairman of Four Corners Economic Development, Inc. “While Margaret will be missed in the daily efforts of our organization, it is comforting to know she won’t be far away and that we can call on her years of expertise.” OOLALA!!... 10th Annual Art Sale and Studio Tour on Crouch Mesa Chuck Salisbury is on the left and I am on the right. He was barely 17 and I was age 15. Our brother George joined the Air Force at age 16 and kid-brother Bob (now deceased) is also honored as an underage veteran. Youngest Warriors Reading the Aztec TALON today I enjoyed the article about Floyd Hazen. We have known Floyd and his family for many years and while I was once told that he had joined the U.S. Army at age 16, it did not surprise me. Floyd is one of many who joined the military at an early age. From time to time someone will mention that a family member enlisted and served in our Armed Forces under the age of 17 and there is an organization which honors them. It is “Veterans of Underage Military Service.” Because members of this group are WW II and Korean War Veterans with a few Vietnam Veterans as members who were able to become “Government Certified Liars,” many of our group are dying year to year. If you know anyone who enlisted under the age of 17 in any military service including National Guard we continue to recruit them into this ever shrinking organization. They can go online to read about the organization and pull down an application or call toll-free 1-888653-8867 for additional information Bruce L Salisbury, © 25 October 2012 CELEBRATE ART! at the 10th Annual Art Sale and Studio Tour on Crouch Mesa in Farmington on Saturday, November 3, from 11AM to 5PM, and Sunday, November 4, from noon to 4 PM. - many ARTISTS to meet - Janet McHaley Burns, Dwight Lawing, Robin Compton, Sue Johnson, and Michael Billie @ 1400 Williams Drive (studio of Janet McHaley Burns), Liz Stannard, Doug McNealy, Sandy Martin, Karen Ellsbury, and Catherine Kemp @ 236 RD 3950 (studio of Liz Stannard), and...Sarah Teofanov, Don Ellis, Pip Howard, Janet Grenawalt, and Lydia Velose @ 30 RD 3773 (studio of Sarah Teofanov). - lots of ART on display and for sale - paintings, prints, encaustic, box art, fiber art, mixed media, jewelry, cards, metal, ceramics, beaded mixed media, mosaic and more... - other treasures in store - In Burns' studio, Michael Billie will be demonstrating his unique encaustic process on both days of the tour. In Stannard's studio enjoy live guitar with George Rowe on Saturday and Justin Brown on Sunday. VISIT ALL 3 STUDIOS FOR A CHANCE TO WIN FINE ART! - also...in the tradition of previous years, non-perishable food items for Echo Food Bank are accepted at all studio locations. Pick up a studio tour map at Andrea Kristina's (218 W. Main in Farmington), the Art Gallery in the Henderson Fine Arts Center at SJC, or the Farmington Museum (3041 E. Main)...or...email FMNarttour@hotmail.com. Bloomfield Senior Citizens’ Center Happenings Lunch is served Monday124 West Ash, Bloomfield • 505-632-8351 Friday, Noon-1:00pm. Holiday Cookie Sale! The Bloomfield Senior Center’s Annual Cookie Sale will begin All meals are tasty, on November 13, 2012 and will run through December 20, 2012. Cookies will be baked on Tuesdays and Thursdays of each week. These cookies will be available to the public healthy, and diabetic and are a great idea for holiday potlucks or as gifts for the holidays. You may stop by or friendly. call the Senior Center to order or pick up your cookies - 632-8351, 124 West Ash, Bloomfield (next to the Bloomfield Library). This is a fund raiser for the Bloomfield Senior Citizens Center. Flavors will include: Chocolate Chip, Peanut Butter, Biscochitos, Gingersnap, Coconut Macaroons, Peanut Butter Chocolate Chip, and Oatmeal Raisin Prices for Cookies: $4.00/Dozen $7.00/2 Dozen BINGO! Every Friday (except the last Friday of the month) from 12:45-1:30pm. Monthly Movie is held the last Friday of the month at 1:00pm. Free popcorn is provided! New hotel coming to Aztec By Katee McClure For years now the City of Aztec has been trying to entice a chain hotel to locate in Aztec. It seems their dogged determination has finally paid off. At the City Commission meeting on October 23, 2012, Commissioner Clover, Mayor Pro-Tem Crowley and Mayor Burbridge voted for a Project Participation Agreement with Presidential Hospitality, LLC,. Originally at the beginning of summer talks of an industrial bond were on the table but that deal did not come to fruition. In that deal it was described exactly how much the infrastructure would cost the city, (i.e. electrical, sewer, street landscaping), and how fast they expected to recoup those costs and what would happen in the event of the hotel’s failure. The new agreement was not included in the commissioner’s packet by Tuesday night’s meeting and it also was not available online. This was due to the fact that all the papers going back and between Aztec City lawyer, Larry Thrower and the lawyers representing Presidential Hospitality, LLC were not finalized until late Monday before commission on Tuesday. It was difficult for the commissioners as they had to try to read the final documents during the commission meeting. Mayor Burbridge expressed her concerns about the late arrival of the agreement and that she hadn’t had the time to go over said agreement. Thrower assured the commissioners that it was the same amount that had previously been agreed to months earlier but that some of the particulars had changed in name. Thrower also motioned to the table behind the commissioners where he indicated “voluminous” paperwork was located in regards to the final agreement. Eventually all three commissioners present voted yeah to the agreement. Is your computer slow? We can fix it ... FAST! Hot Nails! by Amy Find Amy at Johnny’s Wild Hare at 2012 Hutton Rd. in Farmington 793-6245 Cell PAGE 12 NOVEMBER 1 - 15 • 2012 There’s moose in them there hills Recreation with Ryno Mooses? Meese? Moose? Regardless of the proper word to describe a plurality of moose, a plurality of this creature now exists just north of our border. And no, I’m not describing an expansion of our beloved Vanilla Moose - which unfortunately for this ice cream junky is closed for the winter - into the Durango area (although I have no doubt Durango residents would love Vanilla Moose and all its offerings as much as the community of Aztec does). Rather, I am describing the actual species, alces alces, or moose. The first moose that were transplanted in Colorado, twelve to be exact, were planted in 1979 near Walden in the North Park region (far northern Colorado). As of last year, this initial population of twelve has ballooned to nearly 1,700 mooses, or meese, or moose, depending upon your preferred pronunciation. What do moose have to do with the northern New Mexico and southern Colorado region? Well, they are starting to call our mountains home. In 1991, portions of the North Park population were transferred to the Creede area Saturday, in the upper Rio Grande drainage. Then in 6:00 pm November 17th. 2008, the Colorado Department of Wildlife transplanted additional moose just south of the Gunnison area in the La Garita wilderness (only this moose population coming from Utah as opposed to other parts of Colorado). Of course, all that separates the moose of Creede from the areas of southern Colorado is an enormous wilder• Buy Organic—Certified organic products cannot ness area otherwise known as the Weminuche. intentionally include any GMO ingredients Sightings of moose in southern Colorado, however, • Look for "Non-GMO Project" verified seals have been reported. In fact, this past summer yours truly • Avoid at-risk ingredients including soybeans, canola, encountered two separate moose in two separate parts of cottonseed, corn, and sugar from sugarbeets the San Juan Mountains. The first sighting occurred near • Buy products listed in the “Shopping Guide” the trail-head for Spud Lake (see the September 1, 2012 download at www.nongmoshoppingguide.com. TALON for more information on Spud Lake). My famiThe Non-GMO Shopping Guide is a cooperative ly and I (which means there are witnesses to corroborate effort of The Institute for Responsible Technology & my story) sat and watched a young bull moose for The Non-GMO Project. approximately eight or nine minutes as he lazily fed and starred back across the Dr. Portia Sykes, D.N. and Harmony Naprapathic marshy pond at my little provides family. My second run-in with this magnificent creature occurred this past September along the Pine River or Los Pinos Trail • Gentle northeast of Vallecito Reservoir. Although I have no Manipulation Steps to avoid GMOs • Natural Pain Management • • Increased Range of Motion • Decreased Tension & Stress In addition to providing natural pain relief through gentle manipulations and modalities such as electric stimulation and ultrasound, we also teach patient education on therapeutic exercising and nutrition. Come see our products for reduction of pain and inflammation. Accepting New Patients. State Employees and United Healthcare clients have Naprapathy as a covered medical benefit. (505) 327-0086 8100 East Main • Farmington witnesses to affirm my account, this second encounter involved a full grown cow moose. I was running along the single track trail when I came across two ladies on horseback looking somewhat dumbfounded as to what they were seeing. I glanced up the trail and, sure enough, the mature cow moose, almost black in color, was feeding not far off the trail. For the record, I am not some confused Texan mistakenly associating an elk with a moose, as I am a native of Aztec (which may or may not increase my credibility, depending upon who you talk to) who has seen plenty of elk. Besides, coming across a moose is akin to a good book or unconditional love, there simply is no mistaking it. For someone who enjoys encountering a variety of wildlife while out enjoying God’s creation, the presence of moose in the San Juans is an exciting prospect. The next time you find yourself enjoying all the San Juan Mountains have to offer, keep an eye out for those newly established creatures which we call moose. Or mooses. Or meese. Soli Deo Gloria. Readers may contact Ryan via email at tryanlane@gmail.com with questions or comments concerning a particular column, or with suggestions for a future column. Villainy in the Valley or the San Juan Scoundrel Return to the days when life wasn’t so peaceful around these parts when Bottom of the Barrel Productions proudly produces “Villainy in the Valley or the San Juan Scoundrel” an original melodrama by local playwright Judy Castleberry. “Villainy in the Valley or the San Juan Scoundrel” is set against the backdrop of the fiercely contested 1890 election for San Juan County’s seat of government which pitted factions from Aztec, Anyone named Farmington, Junction City, and Largo against each other to “Bob” will be determine the future of the newly formed county. Mixing fact and fiction, the play focuses on the feud between the admitted free on “Aztec boys” and the new settlers in Junction City casting November 15 with Patience Stonebarger, a farmer’s daughter, and Worth Winfield, an Aztec cowboy, in the roles of star-crossed a paying guest lovers ala Romeo and Juliet. Throw in an evil villain named Lester Lawless who lusts after the county’s riches as well as sweet Patience’s virtue and the scene is set for melodrama! “Villainy in the Valley” is the first production of the newly formed Bottom of the Barrel Productions (BoB). BoB chose to support this production as part of its mission to encourage local actors and playwrights and be an educational resource for theater. The play is sponsored by Comcast. San Juan College and the City of Farmington have also provided support. This is also an official New Mexico Centennial Event. “Villainy in the Valley” has a large cast of experienced actors from all over San Juan County. Some of the characters include Deion Hayes as Lester Lawless, Kortney Anthony as Patience Stonebarger, and Charles Dobey as Worth Winfield. Other actors are: Joel Irvin, Leigh Irvin, Mandolynn Browning, Faith Chavers, Craig Brown, Jim Fentimen, George Chota, La Teigra Cahill, Tim Bagley, and Jennifer Peffer. The Runaround Girls are Alice Irvin, Ashleigh Black, Kylie Miller, and Rodi Slagle. “This is a terrific cast and I am thrilled to be working with them. I am also very excited that Hoyle Osborne is helping us with music,” says Judy Castleberry, playwright and director. “We hope to have lots of audience participation. Boos for the villain and cheers for the hero are welcome and encouraged. Bring your children as the play is fun for all ages.” Performances are November 15 and 17 at 7:30 and November 18 at 2:30 at the San Juan College Little Theater. The play will also be performed on November 16 at 7:30 at the Aztec Civic Center. Tickets are $10 for adults and $5 for students and seniors. Anyone named “Bob” will be admitted free on November 15 with a paying guest. For further information call 215-0696 or 486-9043. Elaine Frink Art Exhibit comes to SJ College Elaine Frink’s Art Exhibit, With the Click of a Brush Stroke, will be on display at the Humanities Balcony Gallery from November 1 to December 7. An opening reception will be held Thursday, November 1 from 3 to 5 p.m. in the Humanities Balcony Gallery. Frink has been working with digital painting for many years and her pieces are sure to amaze. Constantly wondering, “What would happen if … ,” Elaine’s curiosity and creativity blend in her pictures that are created on the computer. For more information about Frink’s exhibit or the opening reception, call 566-3464. THE AZTEC LOCAL NEWS PAGE 13 Aztec Angels by Marie Merrick “They tell us we shouldn’t get attached . . . but I get attached. When we lose them, it gets pretty rough. I used to play dominoes with three very special seniors,” our Aztec Angel tells us. “I really enjoyed that. I really miss them.” As a van “ volunteer driver/ assistant,” this Angel leaves the Center early, goes out into the community to pick up those seniors who are unable to drive themselves and returns with them to the Center just in time to leave again at ten each weekday to help deliver Meals on Wheels. There was a time when the Meals on Wheels vans left at nine. Angel hurried to finish her deliveries so she could be back by noon to help serve meals to seniors in the dining room. Only then did this good-deed doer sit down to her own lunch. But with either schedule, Angel has to make haste. One o’clock comes around quickly and it’s time to take those seniors, collected early in the morning, back to their homes. Then, for her, it is back to the Center to pick up anyone needing a ride to an in-town pharmacy, doctor’s office, bank, etc., and later returned to their homes. Angel says “In general, I try to help people that need help.” It must be so, for as one woman tells it, “Anything you need, she’ll do for you. I was gone for a week one time and she took care of my cats for me.” One wet, rainy day, a senior, three weeks new to Aztec and unfamiliar with the area, requested a ride to the court house. Angel dropped her off and advised her to 2012 Christmas Devotional I, with you, have witnessed during the past few days and weeks what has become over the years the annual commercialization of Christmas. I am saddened to see Christmas becoming less and less about Christ and more and more about marketing and sales, parties and presents. And yet, Christmas is what we make of it. Despite all the distractions, we can see to it that Christ is at the center of our celebration. If we have not already done so, we can establish Christmas traditions for ourselves and for our families which will help us capture and keep the spirit of Christmas. For almost as long as I can remember, I have had a particular tradition at Christmastime. My family knows that just before Christmas I will read again my Christmas treasury of books and ponder the wondrous words of the authors. First will be the Gospel of Luke— even the Christmas story. This will be followed by a reading of A Christmas Carol, by Charles Dickens and, lastly, rereading The Mansion, by Henry Van Dyke. I always must wipe my eyes when reading these inspired writings. They touch my inner soul and bring to me the Spirit of our Savior…. The spirit of Christmas is the spirit of love and of generosity and of goodness. It illuminates the picture window of the soul, and we look out upon the world’s busy life and become more interested in people than in things. The spirit of Christmas is something I hope all of us would have within our hearts and within our lives, not only at this particular season but also throughout the years. A wise Christian once urged, “Let us not spend Christmas … but let us keep Christmas in our hearts and in our lives.” This is my plea tonight, because when we keep the spirit of Christmas, we keep the Spirit of Christ, for the Christmas spirit is the Christ Spirit. It will block out all the distractions around us which can diminish Christmas and swallow up its true meaning. There is no better time than now, this very Christmas season, for all of us to rededicate ourselves to the principles taught by Jesus Christ. Because He came to earth, we have a perfect example to follow. As we strive to become more like Him, we will have joy and happiness in our lives and peace each day of the year. It is His example which, if followed, stirs within us more kindness and love, more respect and concern for others. Because He came, there is meaning to our mortal existence. Because He came, we know how to reach out to those in trouble or distress, wherever they may be. Because He came, death has lost its sting, the grave its victory. We will live again because He came. Because He came and paid for our sins, we have the opportunity to gain eternal life. Because He came, we are gathered tonight to worship Him, in bonds of brotherhood and love. May His precious Spirit be with us, and may He ever be the center of our celebrations and indeed of our very lives, I pray in His holy name, amen. President Thomas S. Monson call the Center when she was ready to return. Back at the office, Angel helped answer the phones for a short period while finishing her reports for the day. Right at quitting time, Angel realized the court house lady had not called. After discovering the phones had stopped working, she rushed back to the court house, rescued the lady who had been nervously waiting and got her home safe, sound and dry. Angel has helped out with bake sales, dances, once-amonth birthday celebrations, set-ups and tear-downs for various senior events, assisted with sales at the Program Planners’ tables, etc. Both this December and last December, Joan has been on the Aztec Christmas Arts and Crafts Fair committee and has been hard at work as the lead person in the advertising and promotion of this show and two others in between. Angel will often drive her own vehicle to help others. One such friend and co-volunteer says, “She’s a rock. She’s there when anybody needs her.” Another of Angel’s closest friends needed help taking care of her father for the last few months of his life. Angel stayed at their house while the friend, a regular employee for Meals on Wheels, kept her job. During those long months, Angel refused to accept any money from the family except for gas money. This month’s Aztec Angel is Joan Shelby, a “rock” to some and a friend to many. Cali (left) and Saige KMS students earn PADI scuba certification KMS 8th graders; Cali Truby and Saige Dils earned their PADI Open Water Scuba diver certification on October 13th at Blue Hole in Santa Rosa, New Mexico. The girls joined students from the San Juan College scuba class taught by Jesse Kuzma from Trinity Diving located here in Aztec. The class involves academic study, training in the pool at the Farmington Aquatic Center, and culminates with 4 required open water dives. Cali and Saige successfully completed their open water dives under the instruction of Bob Heath, a PADI Open Water Scuba Instructor from Trinity Diving. If you are interested in learning more about scuba diving and the underwater world stop by the dive shop at 123 South Main Avenue, call 505-608-4022 or visit the website at www.trinitydiving.com THE CHURCH OF JESUS CHRIST OF LATTER-DAY SAINTS ~ PRESENTS ~ J oy to the World A Celebration of Jesus Christ THROUGH AN INSPIRING ARRAY OF NATIVITY DISPLAYS FROM AROUND THE WORLD, YOU’LL BE REMINDED OF THE MIRACLE OF THE FIRST CHRISTMAS SO MANY YEARS AGO. COME ENJOY THE SPIRIT OF THE SEASON WITH FRIENDS AND NEIGHBORS IN CELEBRATING THE BIRTH, LIFE AND MISSION OF JESUS CHRIST. November 28, 29 & 30 December 1 4:00 pm - 9:00 pm 10:00 am - 6:00 pm For unto us a child is born, unto us a son is given: and the government shall be upon his shoulder and his name shall be called Wonderful, Counselor, The mighty God, The Everlasting Father, The Prince of Peace. – Isaiah 9: 6 THE CHURCH OF JESUS CHRIST OF LATTER-DAY SAINTS 902 WEST BLANCO BLVD. BLOOMFIELD, NM F REE ADMISSION ~ REFRESHMENTS WILL BE SERVED ~ PAGE 14 NOVEMBER 1 - 15 • 2012 THE AZTEC LOCAL NEWS PAGE 15 There'ss Noo Placee Likee Home 505-325-8231 800-687-3929 Duck in water -KAYLA SLY Glimmering water - JASMINE LEWIS Koogler Middle School Digital Photography class We all have photographs we treasure… family, friends, pets, the places we have traveled and the things we have seen. We frame them, place them in albums, and carry them with us daily. They become a chronicle of our lives to be passed down through the generations so that our children can see those who have come before them. We tell stories of past times and share images with each other. Images that reflect times of great joy and also sometimes great sorrow, all of which tell the story of who we are or who we were. We also capture images of the beauty that surrounds us on a daily basis. These pictures are an example of moments in time recorded by my students, they see that which many people don’t take time to stop and notice. Imagine books, magazines, newspapers, and the evening news all without photographs… Jim Kuzma, instructor, Digital Photography class Koogler Middle School Everything you want Everything you need Right here at Aztec Feed! Aztec Feed & Supply 216 S. Main • Aztec • 334-8911 Tsunami - Zack Mclaughlin Kitty - Cali Truby Save the Date for a Miracle! Join Aztec High School Playmakers on December 3rd, 4th, 6th, and 7th at 7 pm, and December 8th at 2 pm and 7 pm for a MIRACLE ON 34TH STREET. Tickets are $5.00 a person, or contact (505) 334- 9414 Ext 1327 for info on group tickets. "We still Believe! Do you?" God Bless America Thank a Veteran! Check out my website to see all San Juan County listings Stop by our Aztec location 104 W. Aztec Blvd. www.facebook.com/TheAztecLocalNews PAGE 16 NOVEMBER 1 - 15 • 2012 Bald Eagles All sewing services • zipper replacements • hemming • uniform & clothing repairs • patches and reflective striping sewn on • elastic replacement • pillows & cushions Alterations & More 2216 W. Aztec Blvd. • Aztec 505-860-5984 Have your wedding dress and formal wear altered or made to your design. Mon - Friday: 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Sat: 10 a.m. to 4 p.m (other times by appt.) Owner: Mary Craig First Baptist Church of Aztec •Sunday Services• 8:00 AM - Sunday School -9:30 AM - Worship 9:30 AM - Sunday School -11:00 AM - Worship Evening Worship - 5:30 PM Nursery Provided 700 Navajo Street • 334-6833 You are cordially welcome by John & Jan Rees November through February is a peak time in our region and other parts of New Mexico to observe wintering Bald Eagles. They occupy river corridor and lake habitats as well as some dryland areas. Because the eagles are fairly common during this time and because suitable habitat is widespread, observation and identification opportunities abound. People who walk Farmington and Aztec’s riverside paths often see Bald Eagles perched in big cottonwood, flying along the Animas River, or circling overhead. We regularly find at least one Bald Eagle at Aztec’s Riverside Park during Christmas Count. Road trips along the river valleys usually provide several sightings. One of our favorite eagle routes follows the county roads on Red Mesa (east of the La Plata River and a few miles south of Hesperus) during these months. Eagles are common sights along New Mexico’s Ruins Road and La Posta Road in Colorado. A cottonwood perch by the Animas River, one used by eagles for many years, is visible from Highway 550 shortly above the state border on the way to Durango. A good observation spot is Zink’s Pond south of Durango and east of the Animas River where a pair of Bald Eagles rest in the tall cottonwood in a nearby pasture, sometimes on the bulky stick nest. (Their nesting efforts have been unsuccessful in recent years for unknown reasons.) Observers park beside the road above the pond. The two adults occasionally make their high-pitched calls as they interact in the tree. Their low swoops across the pond put wintering ducks to flight, but we have never seen a capture. Navajo Lake Sate Park’s Pumphouse and Simon Point Day Use Areas on the San Juan downriver from Navajo Lake are places where you can get out and experience the natural setting occupied by the eagles. Along the northeastern end of Navajo Reservoir, we enjoyed closeups from the visitor center in Colorado’s Navajo Sate Park where eagles perched in trees bordered by pavement on one side and the lake on the other. Scattered individuals are found between Ignacio and the lake. Another good site is Pastorius State Wildlife Area southeast of Durango where fish and waterfowl draw the birds until the lake freezes over. Prairie dogs in the pastures on the mesa south of the wildlife area have likely been meals for Aztec City Warrants Here is a list of warrants issued between 09-16-12 to 10-15-12 by the Aztec Municipal Court. If your name appears on the list, please contact the court at: (505) 334-7640 to clear up the warrant. NAME LAST KNOWN ADDRESS D/M of B Adair, Michille 2609 Ridecrest Dr Farmington, NM 87401 5-Dec Aguilar, Rebecca 728 Safebrush Aztec, NM 87410 9-Oct Andrews, Chad 205 S Church St Aztec, NM 87410 9-Apr Beasley, Jacob 539 Road 2900 Aztec, NM 87410 12-Nov Black, Tyler, C 10 Road 3544 Flora Vista, NM 87415 30-Mar Boulch, Jeffrey, Michael 525 N 1st St #53 Bloomfield, NM 87413 12-Apr Cantwell, Cameron, M 705 French Dr Aztec, NM 87410 1-Aug Champany, Amanda 5042 Chimayo Ct Farmington, NM 87402 18-Oct Collins, Elijah 2703 Foy St Farmington, NM 87402 15-Mar Cordova, Carlos, E 23 Road 3181 Aztec, NM 87410 4-Jul Cork, Anastachia, 2325 Glade Rd Farmington, NM 87401 25-Apr Crawford, April 27 Road 3546 Flora Vista, NM 87415 26-Sep Davis, Richard, T 33 Road 3535 Flora Vista, NM 87415 1-Feb Douglass, Daniel 911 W Apache Farmington, NM 87401 27-Sep Durham, Sherri 205 Fahrion St Bloomfield, NM 87413 12-Aug Farnell, Dewayne 1111 James Cir Aztec, NM 87410 29-Jun Garica, Jesse, C 8 Road 3067 Aztec, NM 87410 8-Dec Garrett, Demetrius 2 Road 3191 Aztec, NM 87410 1-Nov Garrison, Joanna. L 3703 Highland View Dr Farmington, NM 7-Oct Garza-Fisher, Josh 400 N Light Plant Rd #81 Aztec, NM 87410 5-Mar Gonzalez, Gabriel 3580 Cliffside Dr Farmington, NM 87401 6-Mar Gordon, Misty, M 316 Gila Road Aztec, NM 87410 2-Jul Grant, Jeffrey, S 48 Road 2892 Aztec, NM 87410 5-Feb Green, Dakota, T 75 Road 2635 Aztec, NM 87410 7-Jan Harr, Jacob, T 11 Road 5235 Farmington, NM 87401 11-Mar Holmes, Savannah, A 4710 Yarrow Trail Farmington, NM 87401 19-Apr Hood, Montadelle 401 Dillon Aztec, NM 87410 10-Aug Hutchison, Dana 33 Road 3084 Aztec, NM 87410 8-Dec Jacques, Desideria, V 26 Road 5068 Bloomfield, NM 87413 8-Jul Jones, Andrew 1208 Camina Vega Farmington, NM 87401 15-Mar Killen, Derreck, R 28 Road 3103 Aztec, NM 87410 30-Jul Knowlton, Amanda, F 541 Road 2900 Aztec, NM 87410 13-Sep Knowlton, Christopher, J 10 Road 2799 Aztec, NM 87410 10-Oct Lloyd, Stephanie, L 135 Road 4049 Navajo Dam, NM 87419 13-Feb Manygoats, Lori, A 702 Natani Ave Farmington, NM 87401 6-Apr Mitchell, Tonan, H 317 Robinson Ave Aztec, NM 87410 21-Mar Montgomery, Sadie M PO Box 1235 Aztec, NM 87410 10-Aug Napie, Esther 821 Road 7425 Bloomfield, NM 87413 12-May Phillips, Ricky 5524 Alder St Farmington, NM 87401 26-May Rhodes, Keitel, H 1037 Road 2900 Aztec, NM 87410 15-May Rodarte, Seth, E 02 Ruins Rd #20 Aztec, NM 87410 4-Jun Ross, Thomas, M 33 CR 3522 Flora Vista,, NM 87415 9-Sep Stephens, Dane, K 94 Road 2575 Aztec, NM 87410 11-Mar Stout, Rita, K 309 Andrew Dr Aztec, NM 87410 3-Jun Valdez, Angelique PO Box 562 Aztec, NM 87410 27-Sep Waldscmidt, Kellie PO Box 2616 Bloomfield, NM 87413 5-Feb White, Chance, K 2702 Zia Ct Farmington, NM 87401 19-Dec Yellowhair, Matthew English Rd Apt F Farmington, NM 87401 20-Oct If you clear up your warrant(s) from this ad you will receive $20 OFF the BENCH WARRANT FEE! You must tell us you got the information from TALON in order to take advantage of this offer! both Bald and Golden Eagles. It was here where a mixed group of Bald and Golden Eagles had an aerial squabble over what might have been a prairie dog, with the giant birds flying low over the field, one dropping the prey, and another picking it up. Unforgettable! Wintering Bald Eagles at New Mexico’s Bosque del Apache National Wildlife Refuge find an abundance of ducks and geese, some of which become easy prey because they are injured or sick. Art Arenholtz in a Friends of the Bosque article reports eagle numbers are highest in January. One popular eagle viewing area is the Flight Deck near the tour loop entrance where eagles perch on the few snags standing in the shallow water impoundment above large congregations of waterfowl and Sandhill Cranes. One of Bosque’s volunteer naturalists regaled us with the tale of an eagle devouring a Green-winged Teal on one of the snags, thrilling visiting boys and causing horror among their mothers. Places such as the Bosque or Vallecito Lake that draw numerous eagles increase the numbers of aggressive encounters. David A. Buehler in Birds of North America Online says aggression is a result of competition for food, especially during winter, or when there is rivalry over a perch or night roost. Although one bird may drive another off, physical contact is generally avoided, and instead birds accomplish the same thing by simply moving their heads, raising their wings, and vocalizing. Frequently, threatened birds retreat. Separating adult Balds from adult Golden Eagles in the field is typically not a problem if the view of the birds is good, but identifying subadults may be more challenging. Arenholtz’s article at www.friendsofthebosque.org/articles/Identifying_the_Sub-Adult_B.pdf has excellent summaries of the plumage characteristics of different ages of Bald Eagles. The fifth year bird is the unmistakable adult with snowy white head and tail. The head of the fourth year bird is a “dingy” white, sometimes with a dark Osprey-like eyeline. Third and second year birds have white mottling and white wing pits (which also distinguish first year Bald juveniles). Dark juveniles can be confused with adult Golden Eagles but lack the gold nape of the Goldens. Watching our national bird, the Bald Eagle, is a great way to spend some outdoor time now! 2012 U.S. National Christmas Tree traveling through Durango on November 9th by Tanny Hoke The theme of the design is “From One National Treasure to Another,” pointing to Mack’s 112 year legacy. The truck features Mack the Bulldog hauling a massive tree through the snow, with large mountains in the background. The Smart way – certified Pinnacle Axle Back model sleeper is equipped with a trailer donated by Hale Trailer Brake and Wheel of Allentown, PA. The trailer will be fitted with a custom-built cradle to support the tree branches. NACS- the National Association of Convenience Stores has donated the fuel and coffee to transport the US National Christmas Tree. Ben Nighthorse Campbell was recently invited by the Mack Truck Corporation and Colorado Outdoors to repeat something he was honored to do in 2000. That was to deliver the National Christmas Tree to Washington D.C. from the White River National Forest in Colorado. Ben visited the Mack factory in early October to test drive the 2012 custom Mack truck, and to check out the expandable trailer he will be pulling with the Christmas tree on it. The truck is a beautiful rig. The total length of the truck and trailer is over a 100 feet long. The whole trip will be in the company of 30 State Patrol, Forest Service officials and escort vehicles. In early November, the 2012 US capitol Christmas tree will be harvested on the Blanco Ranger District of the White River National Forest near Meeker, Colorado. The tree will then be wrapped and transported on a custom-decorated Mack Pinnacle model truck driven by former U.S. Senator Ben Nighthorse Campbell. The truck will transport the tree more than 3,000 miles over the course of 23 days and stop in over 30 towns and cities. The tree is 60 feet or more tall and will be transported on an expandable trailer. Placed on its side, it will rest in a custom made cradle that supports the branches, preventing damage and maintaining the tree’s perfect shape. The base of the tree will be fitted with a rubber bladder filled with fresh water nightly. The tree will absorb approximately 60 gallons of water each day throughout its journey to Washington, D.C. The Colorado portion alone will be over six high mountains passes, and 1,400 miles through 12 towns. Each town along the trip will host their own celebration. The closest one in our area will be on November 9th between 4p.m. and 7p.m. at 802 Main Avenue in Durango, Colorado. I hope our club members can bring their children and grandchildren out to see the tree. The only stop in New Mexico will be in Albuquerque, New Mexico on November 13, 2012. Upon arrival in Washington D.C. the tree will be placed on the west lawn of the U.S. Capitol and decorated with more than 5,000 ornaments handmade by Colorado children depicting the tree’s theme “Celebrating the Great Outdoors.” It will be lit up on Dec. 6, 2012 along with 56 smaller trees, one from each state, five territories, and the District of Columbia. This is the 90th year for lighting the Christmas trees at the White House. Ben will publish a detailed account in a booklet form of the whole trip sometime this winter, but seeing the tree is better than just reading about it. You can follow the Christmas tree and track the route by visiting www.CapitolChristmasTree2012.com or facebook.com CapitolChristmasTree2012. Stay injury-free The best way to have a great winter sports season is to stay injury-free. Stillwater Foundation will host a 6-week Injury Prevention Training Class at their sports facility, The Turf, beginning November 5, 2012. These twice weekly classes will be taught by Tory Aggeler (MA, ATC, PES, PTA), and will focus on functional flexibility, balance, coordination, speed and agility, stabilization, and core strength. Classes will be held Mondays and Wednesdays 6:15-7:15pm. The 6-week course is $100 or $10 for each session for drop-ins. This course is intended for students age 12 and over and a yoga mat is recommended. The Turf is located at 144 Bodo Drive, next to Durango Small Car. Register at www.stillwaterfoundation.org or call Chris Jaworsky at 970-749-7117. THE AZTEC LOCAL NEWS PAGE 17 Olympic National Park 2012 by cj spence, part 2 of 3 11-Sept-2012 We sat on the edge of the bed, windows open, wrapped in blankets, sipping very good, hot, coffee, enjoying the smells, sounds, and vastness of the Pacific Ocean. The tide was coming in and a few hikers were jogging between tidal pools. We had 2.5 days to explore and discover the Olympic Peninsula. After our second cup of coffee we had a game plan: Ruby Beach, Hoh Rainforest, Forks, and 2nd Beach with dinner reservations at 7:30pm. It was going to be a full day. First, I would take a quick hike to the beach while Lynne prepared herself for high-stepping in Olympic National Park. I did very little hiking. I ended up sitting on a stack of Sea Stacks Have shelves and beach bones totally mesmerized by the rugged beauty of cabinets custom fit est, steep, stair-steps down to the beach, it’s worth it, the Olympic Peninsula. Losing track of time I had to totally awesome!” It’s all about attitude. Thirty minutes to the strangest spaces. hustle back to the lodge where Lynne was waiting with later we were at the beach, and Lynne’s new ankle had hot coffee and warm blueberry muffins. I was sizing up performed brilliantly. After a photo shoot of Lynne in navigating the beach bones, front of Kalaloch Lodge not an easy task, we agreed, when a couple stepped Second Beach was worth the out the door and volunhike. Not crowded and the teered to take our photo, rugged coast was stunning. great timing. They were Our thought, if you put from up-state New York Monument Valley on an ocean on a six week tour of the beach you would be looking at Pacific Northwest. Today, Second Beach. We were going day-6, was their last day to have to get in giddy-up on the Olympic mode to make our 7:30pm dinPeninsula. We told them ner reservation. What a day! we were from Aztec, And, it wasn’t over. New Mexico. They Kalaloch Restaurant was laughed; two of their packed. Our table had a favorite places Aztec panoramic view of the Pacific Ruins and Salmon Ruins. Ocean. Tonight we ordered the It is a small world. Remodeling • Repairs • Large or Small Jobs simple fare; clam chowder, Our first stop, Ruby General Contractor • NM lic 16778 • 30+ YEARS EXPERIENCE fish and chips with a crisp Beach, it was a short hike white wine. After tasting the through the Coastal Forest Big Western Red Cedar warm Asiago bread, I didn’t need to the beach. To our surprise anything else for dinner. we had to navigate over, around and through a maze of Everyone was waiting with anticipation for the sun to drift logs, beach bones, to reach the water. The tide was coming in therefore we were limited in exploring the sea drop behind the ocean, when it dropped, everyone clapped. For our evening toast summing up our day on stacks. We selected a pile of beach bones for sitting, and the Olympic Peninsula, we used the second hiker sat, taking in the salted air while watching the relentless description of Second Beach “Totally Awesome!” pounding of waves against the sea stacks. Somehow, they endure becoming cragged, coastal landmarks of stoic beauty. As the tide rolled-in, we needed to roll-out. Next stop Hoh Rain Forest. The 19-mile park road was winding, keeping the glacier fed Hoh River on our right. We were in a Forest of Giants: Western Red Cedar, Sitka Spruce, Douglas Fir, Western Hemlock, these guys don’t take a back seat to the Sequoias or Redwoods. Our first stop was the Great Western Red Cedar, 150-feet tall, 761-inches in circumference! We had the perfect day to visit a rain forest, big, blue, sky and with no measurable precipitation in the last 40days; which is amazing when you consider they average over 140-inches per year. After a stop at Hoh Visitor Center we decided to hike the .75-mile Hall of Moses Trail, which turned out to be a great choice. We expected triple canopy, limited sunlight and condense mist Second Beach bones falling, what we didn’t expect were Big Maples with a super abundance of light, airy, delicate epiphytes. Ferns waving like feathers from the forest floor and old decaying trees, called nursery logs, covered in moss and fungus, giving new life to an old forest. We were enchanted by the Hoh Rain Forest. Our next stop, the Hard Rain Café for a refuel break before our next tour stop, Forks. I asked Lynne to give me a quick history lesson on why Forks was on our must stop list? I have to admit, I was clueless about Stephanie Meyer’s book series, but after Lynne’s history lesson and visiting with the young lady at the Forks Visitor Center I’m kind-of-in the-know? There’s no doubt the small town of Forks has been reenergized by Stephanie Meyer’s Twilight book series. I’m glad I didn’t know about the Twilight series in the Hoh Rain Forest! On the way to Second Beach we drove through the Quileute Indian Village. There were many signs with addresses for smoked salmon. Lynne chose 306 because San Juan Regional Medical Center’s Radiology Department offers: it was our first address in Aztec. Exiting the village I Two convenient locations to serve you stopped at the museum but it was closed, Lynne was State-of-the-art diagnostic care smiling. Our next unexpected stop was road construcHighly-skilled diagnostic professionals with advanced certification tion. We were informed by the young, pretty, STOP-sign Hours to meet your needs Accreditation by the American College of Radiology holding, girl, “This was the perfect place to stop, Service you trust because Jacob’s house is on your right, isn’t that so cool!” I looked at Lynne’s, “Who’s Jacob?” The young 801 West Maple Street and 2300 East 30th Street, Building C girl looked at Lynne and said, “He doesn’t know who To make an appointment call 505.609.6228 Jacob is?” We accept Medicare, Medicaid, and all insurance plans. Lynne laughed, and filled me in on Jacob, as we drove down the road to Second Beach. We parked. Heading up San Juan Regional Medical Center – Caring for the Four Corners since 1910 the trail, we met a couple who were not happy-campers. We didn’t ask but they shared their thoughts, the hike was exhausting, steep stair-steps, and the beach was crowded. A few minutes later a young lady gave her www.sanjuanregional.com description, “Tough up, loved the hike through the for- Need more storage? Home Repairs & Remodels Additions * Remodels * Repairs Painting * Drywall * Decks Tilework * Door installation Wildwood Trim & Remodel 505-330-2960 Diagnostic Specialists, Right Here. PAGE 18 NOVEMBER 1 - 15 • 2012 Kelly Eaves Insurance Agency recognizes local teachers By Katee McClure Stephanie Storhaug, music teacher at Park Avenue Too often a communities most treasured assets are taken for granted. In the entire United State of America nowhere is that more prevalent than in the recognition of our teachers. Kelly Eaves who owns the Farmers Insurance Agency in Aztec and her staff decided to do something about it. Starting in October of this year they are dedicated to awarding one teacher from Park Avenue Elementary and one from Lydia Rippey Elementary each month with an appreciation gift. The teachers are selected randomly. Eventually says Eaves, each and every teacher will be recognized. For the October kick off two teachers were selected. Teacher #1 is Ms. Stephanie Storhaug. She teaches music at Park Avenue Elementary to 4th and 5th graders. This is her first year of teaching. She loves the fact that the children are now starting to compose their own music. She also loves directing children’s theatre and is working on developing that. Teacher #2 is Ms. Jenna Spahlinger. She is a 2nd grade teacher at Lydia Rippey. This is her first year of teaching and has started a new program in her classroom called 6 Traits of Writing. She said the kids have had huge improvement in their writing skills and she is so excited about it. The teachers who are picked have no idea that they have been selected until Kelly and her team show up with their tokens of appreciation. “This program,” says Kelly Eaves “was created so that we can give back to our community and recognize our dedicated, hard working teachers.” Seeing the surprise and joy expressed by Jenna Spahlinger and Stephanie Storhaug was even more rewarding for Kelly who said, “It was one of the best days of my job! - I wish I could do this every day.” Kelly would also like to thank Rubio’s and Aztec Floral and Design for contributing to their program in October. Kelly Eaves Insurance Agency is currently located at 1308 W Aztec Blvd. in Aztec but will soon be moving to their new location in the former Bank of America building on the corner of Main and Aztec Blvd. Announcement of their grand opening will be in TALON soon. Health Center Family Clinic 1601 E. 20th • Farmington Open Afternoons and Evenings By Appointment ONLY: 564-3628 Urgent Pager: 505-716-0102 AliceMarie Slaven-Emond RN, MSN, FNP-C Uninsured Patients Welcome • Discounts for CASH Payments INSURANCES ACCEPTED including Medicare and Medicaid Jenna Spahlinger, second grade teacher, Lydia Rippey THE AZTEC LOCAL NEWS CITY OFFICES CLOSED PAGE 19 City Chatter ADVISORY BOARD City Offices will be closed for the Thanksgiving Holidays, November 22nd and 23rd. All holiday closures can be found on the City calendar located on the government website: www.aztecnm.gov The City of Aztec Lodger’s Tax Advisory Board is seeking to fill two (2) vacant board seats. Per municipal Code Section 2-355, one (1) seat must be filled by a member who is an owner or operator of lodgings subject to the occupancy tax and the other (1) seat must be filled by a AZTEC PUBLIC LIBRARY member who is an owner or operator of industries located within the The library hours for the Thanksgiving holiday are as follows: municipality that primarily provide services or products to tourists, Open Wednesday November 21 from 9:00 am to 6:00 pm. subject to appointment by majority vote by the Governing Body of the rd Closed Thursday and Friday, November 22 and 23 . City of Aztec. The Lodger’s Tax Advisory Board meets at Aztec City The book drop is available at the back of the building for book returns. Hall every other month on the third Monday at 2:30 p.m. VISITOR CENTER The Lodger’s Tax Advisory Board has the following duties: The Aztec Visitor Center will be closed for business Thursday, November 22nd through Saturday, November 24th. Please note the Center is also closed on Sundays and Mondays through the winter. N SENIOR – COMMUNITY CENTER Don’t forget Yee Haw November 10th! $8.00 adults $5.00 Seniors/children N The Lodger’s Tax Advisory board shall advise the governing body on expenditure of funds authorized under Section 27-417 of the City Code for advertising, publicizing and promoting tourist attractions and facilities in the municipality and surrounding area. All Board members shall serve without compensation. The Lodger’s Tax Advisory Board is strictly an advisory committee to the City Commission. If you would like additional information on the ANIMAL SHELTER Lodger’s Tax Advisory Board, please consult the Aztec Municipal Dealing with Separation Anxiety Code, Chapter 2, Article 5, Division 6 (available on the City of Aztec If you've ever come home to find that your otherwise well-behaved dog has destroyed furniture, had "accidents" on the carpet, or has been website at www.aztecnm.gov). If you are interested in applying please send a letter of interest to: disturbing the neighbors with his loud howling, it's very likely that City of Aztec your dog is suffering from separation anxiety. Dogs are one of the Attention: City Clerk most social creatures on earth. They just love spending time with you, 201 W. Chaco whether they're playing a game with you or just curling up next to you Aztec, NM 87410 on the couch. So when it comes time for you to go to work or leave the house for long periods of time, it can make your dog lonely or anxious. CODE COMPLIANCE There are a number of reasons why dogs suffer from separation Illegal Dumping anxiety: Illegal Dumping is an ongoing problem for the City of Aztec and its N Fear of abandonment—This is especially common with residents. As we head into fall when many folks will be trimming back rescued strays and dogs that have been adopted from trees and cleaning out yard, and removing leaves, we want to remind animal shelters. everybody to dispose of all that yard waste properly. The many dirt N A change in your dog's daily routine—This can include roads and jeep trails that surround Aztec provide temping spots to drop changes such as going from not working or working partoff a load of limbs or lawn clippings. However this is illegal dumping time to a full-time job—or anything else that suddenly and this is a crime, and may result in criminal prosecution. All trash, keeps you away from the house for longer (or different) waste, yard debris, leaves, grass trimmings, limbs, and other materials periods of time. must be properly disposed of at the landfill or via residential waste N Moving to a new home or other change in environment. containers. 5 ways to nip separation anxiety in the bud: N Confine your dog. Try to keep him in an enclosed area, such as a crate, when you're out. Dogs are den animals, so they feel safer in their own small space. This will protect both your dog and your belongings. N Alter your habits. Do you have a set routine each day before you leave the house? Perhaps you jingle your keys, put your bag or briefcase near the door or kiss your spouse and kids. Your dog picks up on these cues, and associates them with your leaving. Try to mix up your normal routine by doing your usual activities in a different order. N Practice leaving. Plan short trips that allow your dog to gradually adjust to being alone. If your dog seems comfortable after half-hour departures, and exhibits no anxious behavior, increase your time away. N Go for a walk. Taking your dog for a long walk before you leave will help make him too tired to misbehave after you leave. N Keep your dog busy. Before you leave, bury toys and hide treats where he can find and "dig" them up. Keeping a TV or radio on can also provide "company" for your pooch. Try not to cure your dog's anxiety problem by giving him even more attention; you'll only create a vicious cycle of neediness. Likewise, never get angry when your dog acts clingy as you prepare to leave. This can cause even more anxiety because your dog will associate your absence and return with punishment. With some time and a lot of patience, your dog will have a renewed sense of confidence and you can be confident knowing that your dog is fine being home alone. Information from Pedigree, passed on to you by the Aztec Animal Shelter. Dumping in the irrigation ditches is also both illegal and dangerous. Now that the water has been turned off for the winter it is tempting to place your leaves or other yard debris in the empty ditch. That is prohibited. All waste must be disposed of properly to avoid a code violation. There has also been an increase in residents sweeping debris from their property into the street. This is a big problem for our street sweeper. Once again, all waste of debris from your property must be disposed of properly in an approved trash receptacle. Failure to do so is a violation of Section 14-63 of the Aztec City Code. Illegal Dumpsites pose a serious health and safety risk. Improperly disposed of trash can attract disease carrying animals. Leaves, weeds, limbs, and other debris are the perfect fuel for a wildfire. If you see someone dumping illegally or you see signs of illegally dumped materials, please contact Matthew Clark in the Code Compliance Office at City Hall or call 334-7697. UTILITY BILLING OFFICE Turn lights, computers, and other equipment off when they are not in use. This is easy to do, once you think about it. Computers often have an energy-saver mode, but sometimes it is disabled. For other energy-saving tips please visit our website at www.aztecnm.gov to VIEW our MONTHLY CALENDAR with daily energy saving tips. Each month there is a new calendar posted with helpful tips to conserve electricity and water. Stay informed through the following: Website: www.aztecnm.gov Twitter: CityOfAztec Facebook: www.facebook.com/aztecnewmexico PAGE 20 NOVEMBER 1 - 15 • 2012 It’s All about Living! By Deb Jacupke, Director of Marketing, Good Samaritan Society - Four Corners Village Good Sam has a NEW Dietary Director! to improve their workplace and pro(The residents, staff and managevide better services. I am a resource ment at the Village welcome Sheila to the Village to offer some new and she introduces herself in her own ideas and help those who already words.) work here to work together even My name is Sheila Pedersen and I better. just moved here to start my new job at Our customers at the Village vary Good Samaritan Society - Four widely in their needs. The Corners Village. I was selected to Cottonwood folks are independent manage the food service department and enjoy high food quality and for the Village and make some choices. The Atwood residents also improvements to the food and service enjoy high food quality and snacks that is provided. My husband and I of their choosing that are available have been on a working vacation since day and night. The Memory Care we met on the Coast of ladies want to be quietly served their Oregon and have lived and meals and if they need help with worked in California, Sheila Pedersen, new Dietary something (like cutting the chicken Washington, Idaho, Director at Good Samaritan Society – off the bone), someone will be there Wyoming, Montana, Four Corners Village in Aztec. to assist them without even having Colorado and now New to ask for help. The skilled nursing Mexico. patients keep busy in therapy most of the day and as a I have two Bachelor’s degrees which gives result need food and supplements that aid in their healme a solid background in Business ing and restorative activities. Management and Dietetics. We seek jobs in Our dear elders are our treasure and we want to prorural areas with lots of fresh air and nooks and vide them the comfort they deserve. It is a daily privicrannies to explore and we are excited to see lege for every worker in the village to observe and prowhat Aztec has in store for us. vide food and fluids that enhance their lives and make My background is food service problem resmealtimes that are enjoyable. olution and focuses on getting the staff trained With my new set of eyes in the Village I learn as to new methods of customer service as well as much as I offer and I look forward to getting to know all quality improvement. At some facilities I am of the residents here. I have met many family members tasked with recruiting a local food service Let me help you get the coverage you need. already and want to hear the stories that make your manager to take on the management of a care People who switched to Allstate saved money loved ones so special to you. Many of those stories center after I leave. I find that the local and got more protection. Dollar for dollar, nobody revolve around food, so I’ll be eager to hear them. employees are very willing to make the effort protects you like Allstate. So don’t wait! Call me today. KELLY J BERHOST (505) 334 6177 1415 W AZTEC BLV #9 AZTEC kellyberhost@allstate.com Come and compare your current policy with one from Allstate. Coverage and savings based on policy features selected and are subject to terms, conditions and availability. Allstate Fire And Casualty Insurance Company: Northbrook, IL. © 2010 Allstate Insurance Company Financial Peace University class Mariel and Shannon Lynch will be leading a new Financial Peace University class! There will be a free preview on January 10, 2013 at 6pm at Aztec United Methodist Church. The classes are 1.5 hours and will be on the following nine Thursdays also at 6pm (from January 17th to March 14th). To register, contact Mariel, Shannon or you can go to the website: www.daveramsey.com/fpu/locations/org/31401/class/219790 From this website you can also purchase the materials for the class directly from Dave Ramsey for $89 plus $6 shipping. If you choose, you can also register for the class and wait on purchasing the materials by selecting the box that says "I already have membership materials." For more information contact Shannon (402-3226) or Mariel (402-8389) or e-mail Shannon at shannonlynch@q.com. A Night of Excitement By Randy Collins onvenience is more than $having the leaves raked. &)(! 1#."5'#(.((7 , �#(!653)/ ( "0 ")/-%*#(!6 .,(-*),..#)( (5'&-5*,)0#6 1"#" '%-5#. -#, .)5($)3 &# -5*,. ) 5 ,#(! )''/(#.38 To learn how you can get more out of life, call (505) 334-9445. "MM GBJUITPSCFMJFGTBSF XFMDPNF On Thursday Sept. 20th "MANGOSTEEN MADNESS" hit Farmington, New Mexico with a bang as the Co-Founder and CEO of the global, billion dollar company Xango came to Farmington to share the story of Xango and why the concept of human touch marketing is so successful. Joe Morton shared the message that it is "safe to dream again" to a standing room only crowd, at the Farmington Civic Center. Joe listened to the stories of others and shared his own in front of an energized and engaged crowd. The evening started with mine and Lisa’s story of how Xango and Favao changed our lives over 6 years ago. This was followed by Mr. Vern Andrews sharing his life changing journey and showing a video by a local young man Mr. Bill Adney and how his path to serve a mission was pretty much not going to happen due to his health condition, particularly caused by his weight. After being introduced to the Favao weight management program, Bill said it changed his life and now his dream to serve the world through mission work is moving towards reality. After Vern finished, a good number of local people stood up and held up cards that showed how much weight and/or inches they had lost by managing the Favao program! We concluded the evening with a short video that Lisa created of the wax museum while we were in Las Vegas, NV at the Xango convention. The crowd was either dancing or clapping as we closed out a magnificent event with a large number of friends and truly good people that chose to come out and see what all the buzz is about! Lisa and I want to say thank you to all that came out, and to all of our tremendous team members that spent tireless hours giving of their time to make this event the huge success that it was! We appreciate all of you: Wendy Foust Green, Debbie Kelso, Charles and Sarah Hughes, Ray and Peggy Martinez, Charlene Valdez, Annette and Abey Abend, Leonard and Laura Tillman, Jeremy Collins, Mary Kay Cornwall, Vern and Laura Andrews, Tosha Coddington, Kayla DeHerrera, Paul McPherson (Shutterfreak), Cassidy Compton (who made a fabulous Mangosteen cake for Lisa’s birthday), Christopher Collins, Roger and Robin Collins, Bill Adney, Jason Greenleaf, Tiffany Sipe, Donna Hughes, Celeste Luther, James and Sherry Magee, Melissa Nicholson, Ryan and Melissa Taft, Sugar Singleton. For more info call Randy @ 505-486-0258, Lisa @ 505-486-5508, or go to www.dreambuilders.mymangosteen.com. THE AZTEC LOCAL NEWS PAGE 21 Obituaries Goodman Henry Calvin Goodman, 93, of Aztec, died Oct. 10, 2012, in Bloomfield. He was born Sept. 3, 1919, in Milburn, Okla., to Calvin Henry and Lillie Mae (Helms) Goodman. Henry was a long time butcher of 40 years, then security guard for McGee Park of San Juan County. He loved horses, fishing, family and friends. Henry served his country in WWII. He was preceded in death by his wife, Rosa Lee Goodman; his parents; brother, Ray Goodman and his sister, Johnnie Kellison. He is survived by his son, Bill (Bonnie) Goodman; Almola (Sonny) Maynard and his grandchildren, Delbert Goodman, Steve Goodman and Jennifer Street. A grave side service was held Oct. 15, in Greenlawn Cemetery, Farmington, officiated by Rev. Kathleen Potter. Arrangements by Alternative Choice, Farmington. Hughes Jenne Kay Hughes of Bernalillo, NM, and formerly of Aztec, NM, passed away on Thursday October 18, 2012. She was born on July 29, 1933 in Rifle, Colorado to Clara Belle (Raley) and Kay Hughes. She grew up in Colorado in Rifle and Piceance Creek with brothers Boyd and Torrance and sisters Colleen, Nancy Lucky and Grace Wynn. Following high school Jenne Kay enlisted for a short time in the US Navy. She then married John Dornberger and had three children; Cindy, John and Lisa. The marriage ended and she later married Lex Burke and had her fourth child Annie Kay. She embraced motherhood with a passion. She nurtured her children with love and kindness, teaching each one the skills and joy of life. Her children helped her realize she had more to do. She enrolled at Colorado Mountain College in Glenwood Springs, CO and later graduated Magna Cum Laude in History from Fort Lewis College in Durango, CO, followed by a Master’s Degree in Special Education from Adams State College in Alamosa CO. She taught special education in Farmington, Aztec and Bloomfield school districts in New Mexico, working hard to make a difference and enrich the lives of the beloved, but often challenging children in her classroom. She took to heart Mother Teresa’s quote "We can do no great things, only small things with great love." Motherhood and teaching were not her only passions. Gardening was second nature to her, and as a Master Gardener she shared her knowledge of herbs and home remedies with local organizations. She was a longtime member of the Aztec Desert Planters Garden Club. Her passion for books led her to become a founding member and scribe for an Aztec book club named TARTS (Tuesday Afternoon Reading and Thinking Society). They said thank goodness we do not meet on Friday! Although her favorite author was Ursula Le Guin, she lived by Ralph Waldo Emerson’s words “to leave the world a bit better.” After retiring from teaching, Jenne Kay volunteered with several organizations. She particularly loved to teach reading to adults through the Project Read program. She hosted an exchange student Kim from Denmark, and after a successful battle with breast cancer helped newly diagnosed women cope. She seized every opportunity to have fun, take trips, tell stories, read poetry and share her wisdom with her precious grandchildren Sarah, Miranda, Paul, Tiffany, Courtney, Naomi and Rachel. Then she was able to start those things again with great grandchildren Alaura, Violet, Eldon, Mason, Soren, Davin, Caeson, Cada, Tilden and Theresa Rose. Jenne Kay will be missed by all the family and friends whose lives she touched, and especially by her husband of 29 years Stephen Thomas. Celebrations of her life was held October 26 at the Bernalillo United Methodist Church in Bernalillo, NM and on October 27 at the Aztec United Methodist Church in Aztec. The family suggests memorial donations in Jenne Kay’s name support either the Bernalillo Children’s Christmas Present mission fund payable to “Bernalillo United Methodist Church” 136 W. Calle Don Andres, Bernalillo, NM 87004, or to the “Childhaven Foundation” 807 West Apache Street, Farmington, NM 87401 (505) 325-5358 www.childhavennm.org or of course donations to the charity of your choice. Arrangements by Daniels Family Funeral Services, Rio Rancho, NM. Keenom 2013 Harley Raffle Kicks Off We are kicking off our 14th Annual Harley Raffle this Thursday (11/1/12) at 10:00 a.m. See the beautiful 2013 Harleys we will be giving away on our website www.aztecbg-club.com This year’s lineup includes a Super Glide Custom, a Seventy-Two, a Heritage Softail Classic, a Softail Deluxe, a Road King, a Street Glide and a 110th Anniversary 1200 Custom- all are beautiful new 2013 Harley-Davidson motorcycles purchased from our good friends over at Four Corners Harley-Davidson in Farmington. Our friends at FCHD have generously given us $500 gift cards to give away with each bike! Make sure you are one of the first 1,000 to purchase your tickets and get in on the Early Bird Drawing to win the 2013 Super Glide Custom. In the past, tickets have sold EXTREMELY FAST for the Early Bird Drawing (in less than 48 hours) so get yours early. As in our previous raffles we will be giving away a total of SEVEN 2013 Harleys and will attempt to sell a total of 3500 tickets, but the raffle drawing will be held on March 9, 2013 regardless of how many tickets sold!! Where else will you find odds like this? You could actually win 4 bikes with one ticket since we will also be giving away a bike after 2,000 tickets are sold and again after 3,000 are sold and all of the tickets go back into each drawing, including the winning tickets! Tickets are $100 each or 3 for $250 and are available at our website at: www.aztecbg-club.com. If you need assistance purchasing your tickets on-line or have a question call 800-461-1238, Monday-Friday 10:00 am- 6:00 pm, or leave a message and we will return your call during those hours. Elizabeth "Jody" Jo Griffin Keenom, 58, of Aztec, died on Oct. 9, 2012, in Aztec. She was born Aug. 16, 1954, in Durango, CO, to Walter L. and Flora Joyce (Gaston) Griffin. She was our beloved mother, wife and most important, Granny. Jody was born and raised in Aztec. She touched the lives of all who knew her. She was the mother of three and JoA Remembrance of mama to many. Jody loved and lived for her husband of Anne Michelle “Chelly” Savidge 39 years. She loved nothing more than Daughter of Robert W. and Krystine A. Savidge being with her children and grandbabies. Died July, 1993 Summer was her favorite season because it was warm and she could be at On a hill above Durango, where the deer come out to play, the lake on her houseboat or out "troopin" And the chipmunks and the squirrels frolic ‘mongst the stones of gray; watching the sunrise. It is peaceful on that hill overlooking that fair town, Jody loved her music and dancing. To Tho the river and the narrow gauge and the traffic make some sound, know her was to love her. But the sighing mountain breezes through the pine trees on that rise She will be greatly missed and never Tend to mute those other sounds so tranquility may survive. forgotten. On the north edge of the graveyard, where oak brush meets the grass, She was preceded in death by her parAnother gray stone marks the site of a life gone - way too fast; ents; brother, Bo Griffin and her sister, It is a nice place to visit, and if you’ll only look a bit, Barbara (Griffin) Wright. Jody is survived by her husband, Donnie You can probably find her grave stone—it’s got her name on it. Along with her picture—one of those ceramic deals so clever-Keenom; son, Bud (Samantha) Keenom; The same as on the space shuttle, made to last forever! daughters, Sonya Keenom and Angela (Steven) Chapman; sisters, Kay Likes, Sue And if you happen it to find, a scripture message it will send: Coberly, Beckie McClain and Tina Giles “No greater love than this: to give one’s life for a friend.” and four grandchildren, Logan, Deegan and Olivia Keenom and Hallie Chapman. She was almost 20 when she drowned that day in Morgan Lake, A memorial service was held Oct. 18, at She was on a picnic there with friends for goodness sake; Bethel Baptist Church, Aztec, with Bob They all worked at a mission church, “Many Waters” was its name, Schlauger officiating. Arrangements by Their goal to help the near-lost souls with alcohol to blame. Cope Memorial Chapel, in Aztec. A Navajo family at the lake was enjoying the beach; The stepdad, drunk, decided it was time his kids to teach To submit an obituary for a person in the Aztec, Bloomfield, Flora Vista, Cedar Hill area, email to The fine art of swimming, which he forgot he could not do, aztecnews@sisna.com, mail to POB 275, Aztec, or drop in dropbox at Zip & Ship in Aztec. There is no cost. But he felt great and powerful with beers—more than a few. He took his kids, a boy and girl of eight years age or so, $FURVV $PHULFDQ And walked, one in each arm, to in the water go. 5HYROXWLRQ 0LOG'XWFK VROGLHUV FKHHVH 'DQJHURXV 3UHYHQW VLWXDWLRQV 2QHRIWKH $XWRSLRQHHU 5LQJOLQJ 3RWDWR %URWKHUV $XGLWLRQWDSH ,PSURYLVH ,QIRUPDO $PD]HPHQW &KRSGRZQ :LOGDQG $WKHQLDQ XQWDPHG SKLORVRSKHU &RSLHUQHHG $YRLG 3DUWRID 8QGHUJURXQG EOL]]DUG ZRUNHU (SRFK *\PLWHP 7H[DVRLOFLW\ ,QÀH[LEOH $FWUHVV%RQHW 8UEDQFHQWHU &DWFKHVVRPH 6HFUHWDJHQW UD\V /HRSDUG <HDWVRU IHDWXUH .HDWVHJ /DQGRQ/DNH 'RZQ 9LFWRULD 7UDQVSRUWDWLRQ 0RYDEOH PRGH EDUULHU +XIIDQGSXII $URPD )HHGWKHNLWW\ $UPERQH %UD]LOLDQKRW ([SLUH VSRW 2YHUVHDV :RUGSOD\ 0LOLWDU\SRVWV )RUPHU %DUOH\EHDUGV *HUPDQFRLQ $XWRVRI\RUH &,$ 1RWDWZRUN IRUHUXQQHU %DQNFOHUN &RQFHLW &DSDEOHRI +D]DUG WUHDVRQ &DUSHWVOLSSHU 6WXUG\WUHHV On A Hill Above Durango &RS\ULJKW3X]]OH-XQFWLRQFRP *UDVVODQG $PHULFDQHON 6RPHFRXUWURRP HYLGHQFH ([SORVLYH &RXWXULHU &DVVLQL 7RZDUGWKHWRS $IWHUJDVRUUDLQ 'DWHPRGL¿HU *UDGHV *RWKLFDXWKRU 5DGFOLIIH *DQJZD\ 0HGLFLQH PHDVXUHV (JJRQ 'HEDFOH 7LPH]RQH &HQWUDO3UH¿[ 3ODFHIRUD VNHOHWRQ" 7D[SUHSDUHUIRU VKRUW .LQJVDQG TXHHQVHJ Lake Morgan it is named, a deceptive lake indeed, With peaceful shallow water over sand from water feed, A sandbar formed with quick drop-off at 30 feet or so, And with a breeze rippling the surface, you cannot see below. Answer on page 23 )DWW\ 7KUHH*RUJHV SURMHFW *XLWDULVW&ODSWRQ %LOOGLVSHQVHUV EULHÀ\ 3UHOXGHWRDGXHO +XQFKEDFN DXWKRU 5HZRUNDQDUWLFOH *HWVKLWFKHG $WWHPSW 0XVWDFKHVLWH So the drunken stepdad took them out just one step too far And fell into the deeper lake at the end of the sand bar; He panicked and let go the kids, to save his hide he crawled, He did not look back or try to help, while on shore mothers bawled; As destiny would have it, ‘Chelly (my heroic daughter’s name), Was walking on the beach nearby when the tragedy to her came; She hesitated not a bit, and ran swiftly to the site; She swam out to a little boy and kept him in the fight; The little girl was not so lucky, ‘Chelly’s friend did swim her out, Tried to hand her to the stepdad, but he wouldn’t help—the lout! So she died there on the sandbar, in the shallow water part, But my precious daughter ‘Chelly saved the boy’s life—gave her heart; But she paid for that so dearly during all the stress and strife; And they found her floating face down—she had given her own life! At ‘Chelly’s funeral later her friends did come to cry, And a little Navajo woman also came to say goodbye. She came up to my wife and told her tearfully and slow, “your daughter saved my son’s life—she is a saint you know.” Now I, her father, must reflect that hero though she be, I have oft pondered on this thing and think so sorrowfly, Did this young lad for which my daughter sacrificed so dear, Turn out to be a gift to man—or a guzzler of beer? ‘tis not my place to know God’s mind, or heart or soul, I’m sure; But I must strive to find a peace and keep my thoughts more pure! And so I find myself sometimes, traveling far away, To that hill above Durango where the deer come out to play. PAGE 22 NOVEMBER 1 - 15 • 2012 TALON classifieds No charge - No frills 15 word personal classified. $5 ad - 20 words, $1 each additional 10 words. $10 ad - 3.25 X .75, single line frame $15 ad - 3.25 X 1, deco type, single line frame $20 ad - 3.25 X 1.5 - deco type, single line frame $30 ad - 3.25 X 2 - deco type, frame, graphic Send your ad with payment to The Aztec Local News, PO Box 275, Aztec, NM 87410 or use the drop box at Zip and Ship. 334-1039. NEXT & FINAL for 2012! San Juan Animal League Rabies Clinic Sunday, November 4th 12:00 - 4:00 (or while supplies last) McGee Park San Juan County Fairgrounds Questions? 505-325-3366 We are now on Facebook. www.sanjuananimalleque.webs.com sanjuanleague@gmail.com www.gmwatch.org Support our advertisers! Without them, there is no TALON! AliceMarie Slaven . . . . . . . . . . 18 All About Style, LLC . . . . . . . . . . 3 Allstate . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 20 Alterations & More . . . . . . . . . . 16 Aztec City Chatter . . . . . . . . . . 19 Aztec Feed . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 15 Aztec Floral . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3 Aztec Restaurant . . . . . . . . . . . 15 Aztec Urgent Care . . . . . . . . . . 18 Basin Home Health . . . . . . . . . 15 Business Reviews . . . . . . . . . . 15 Cottonwood Storage . . . . . . . . 22 Dusenberys . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9 Ellen Jensen . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 15 Emeterio Rudolfo, candidate . . . . 3 Farmers Insurance, Eaves . . . . . 3 First Baptist Church . . . . . . . . . 16 Five Star Fitness . . . . . . . . . . . . 3 Five Star Mechanical . . . . . . . . . 4 Good Samaritan Society . . . . . . 20 Hair West . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4 Harmony Naprapathic . . . . . . . 12 Hot Nails by Amy . . . . . . . . . . . 11 Inland Kenworth . . . . . . . . . . . . 10 Joy to the World . . . . . . . . . . . . 13 Junk in Your Trunk . . . . . . . . . . . 9 Local Computer Solutions . . . . . 11 McDonalds . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 15 NWNM Senior Companion . . . . . 7 Premier Fitness . . . . . . . . . . . . 10 Priscilla Shannon, Atty . . . . . . . 23 Ramsey Realty . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10 Reliance Medical . . . . . . . . . . . 22 Rising Sun Plumbing . . . . . . . . 17 Robert Retherford . . . . . . . . . . . 9 San Juan College . . . . . . . . . . . . 4 San Juan College East . . . . . . . 9 SJC Elections . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6 San Juan Regional . . . . . 8,10,17 State Farm . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 17 Style Exchange . . . . . . . . . . . . 20 Veterans Day . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 14 Waybourn Feed . . . . . . . . . . . . 22 Wildwood Trim . . . . . . . . . . . . . 17 Zip and Ship . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9 Our advertisers support TALON & the free services it offers. 334-1039 Horse stalls for rent, in barn, have walker. Located at McGee Park. 326-6349. Northwest Landscaping - complete yard and lawn maintenance. Free removal. Affordable, negotiable. Call for free estimate. 505-592-4991. I do tree cutting and carpentry work. Reasonable rates. Brian, 632-1858 If you found the black eyeglasses in the brown case that were lost at Family Dollar in Aztec, please return them to Family Dollar or call 505-486-6657. PLEASE!! These are prescription glasses; and, I need them to see! For sale or rent. Three bedroom, 1 bath house in Bloomfield for sale or rent. Large fenced yard, 2 car garage and carport. $800/month + $400 damage deposit. 334-1945. Disabled woman needs driver (from West Hammond area only) for rides to doctor’s appt., errands. 632-1388 Painting is a great way to protect your investment Home Remodel & Repair. Experienced in all phases of construction. Guaranteed quality with references. Choice Remodel & Painting. Free estimates 505-258-5391. BEAUTIFY, PRESERVE AND INCREASE THE VALUE OF YOUR PROPERTY Interior and exterior painting Call 330-2960 or 947-1122 for estimate Experienced licensed professionals Aztec Cottonwood Storage Handyman Services: • Good Rates • Different sizes • RV and Open Space available Limited hours: 2- 6 pm, Call 334-6111 or 334-7175, leave message Do you have Fall chores? Do you need some help on the “honey do” list? Call me for in house and outdoor projects. My work for you is like I was working on my home. Carl@ 333-2443. Nice, remodeled office building for rent in Aztec. Available in December to January. Call for description 334-2539. ROADRUNNERS 4-H CLUB 2nd ANNUAL CRAFT FAIR McGEE PARK MULTI-PURPOSE ROOM NOVEMBER 24, 2012 9:00AM-3:00PM FREE ADMISSION! START YOUR HOLIDAY SHOPPING OFF RIGHT WITH HOMEMADE GIFTS AND AT THE SAME TIME SUPPORT YOUR LOCAL 4-H YOUTH! Vendors: $10/Table rental (includes 2 tables) Setup: 8:00am CONTACT: Ida Swanson 505-716-6638 idaswanson98@yahoo.com CLASS SCHEDULE Nov. 10th 9am-5pm or Jan. 26th 9am-5pm or March 9th 9am-5pm F armington CIVIC C ENTER HOMEBUYER EDUCATION CLASS ECHO Inc. invites you to come and learn the following: ∞ ∞ ∞ ∞ ∞ How to get started in purchasing a home The Advantages and Disadvantages of owning a home How much you need to earn to buy or build a home What credit rating you need to buy or build a home Who should be a part of your home buying team 1921 E. Murray Dr. Farmington, NM 87401 200 W. Arrington Farmington, NM 87401 ∞ 1 - $31,650 ∞ 5 - $48,800 Must Pre-Register: ∞ 2 - $36,150 ∞ 6 - $52,450 505-325-7466 ∞ 3 - $40,700 ∞ 7 - $56,050 ∞ 4 - $45,200 ∞ 8 - $56,650 Monday - Friday: 7:30 am - 4 pm • FLU SHOTS • • Drug Screens • DOT Physicals • Respirator Fit Tests • PFTs THE AZTEC LOCAL NEWS PAGE 23 UPCOMING E•V•E•N•T•S I P AZTEC, BLOOMFIELD, FARMINGTON NOVEMBER 1 - 17, NEW MEXICO: 100 YEARS OF ART. Featuring over sixty works in a variety of media this exhibit showcases the work of New Mexico artists over the past century. The exhibition tells the on-going story of these artists, explains why they chose to live and work in New Mexico. This exhibit is organized by the Las Cruces Museum of Art at the Farmington Museum at Gateway Park Museum & Visitors Center, 3041 E. Main St. 505-599-1174 NOVEMBER 1 –9, FINE ART INVITATIONAL - DWIGHT LAWING. This show will be in the San Juan College Henderson Fine Art Gallery. 505-566-3464 NOVEMBER 2- 4, "A STREET CAR NAMED DESIRE" - A THEATER ENSEMBLE ARTS PRODUCTIONS. Theater Ensemble Arts kicks of the season with “A Street Car Named Desire” at the San Juan College Little Theatre. Performances at 7:30 p.m. with a matinee at 2:30 p.m. on Sunday, November 4. Tickets can be purchased at the box office, $10/adults and $8/seniors and students. 326-2839 NOVEMBER 3, CHRISTMAS CRAFT FAIRS. Two great locations, one great time! The Bonnie Dallas Senior Center, 109 E. La Plata St., and the Farmington Recreation Center, 1101 Fairgrounds Rd., from 8:30 a.m. to 2 p.m. Beautiful handmade gifts, homemade baked goods, antiques, amazing jewelry and original art will be available for purchase. NOVEMBER 17, TURKEY TROT & GOBBLE WOBBLE. This event features a 5K Turkey Trot and a 2 Mile Gobble Wobble Walk at 9 a.m. in Historic Downtown Farmington. Registration deadline is November 15th. This family friendly event will include activities such as children’s carnival, games, face painting, a kids gobble contest, music and more. Participate in a Turkey Trot and Gobble Wobble costume contest! Enter individually or as a group. 599-1184 NOVEMBER 23 - 24, 28th ANNUAL CHAMPIONSHIP BULLRIDING EXTROADINAIRE. This annual bull riding spectacular is at McGee Park Memorial Coliseum, between Farmington and Bloomfield on Hwy. 64, behind SunRay Park & Casino. 505-287-9534 or www.casperbacarodeo.com NOVEMBER 28 - DECEMBER 1, FESTIVAL OF TREES. Four days of holiday entertainment at the Farmington Civic Center, presented by Presbyterian Medical Services. Enjoy special events like the Teddy Bear Tea, Fashions at the Festival Luncheon, Coffee Break with the Trees and Family Night amidst an indoor forest of artfully decorated Christmas trees! Come for a family outing, to get decorating ideas, to support PMS or to purchase one of the decorated trees. Tree raffle on December 3rd, pre-purchase November 30th. Advance ticket purchase recommended. 505-330-8467 NOVEMBER 29, FARMINGTON CHRISTMAS PARADE. This annual lighted Christmas parade starts at 5:45 p.m. Parade route runs through Historic Downtown Farmington along Main Street. For parade applications and theme, call the Farmington Chamber of Commerce. 505-325-0279 NOVEMBER 30, RIVERGLO. Luminarias light up the river’s bank and the evening sky. Celebrate the holiday season with a stroll along the river’s edge with carolers and bell choirs as well as hot chocolate and food at Berg Park from 6 p.m. to 8 p.m. 505-326-7602 or 1-800-448-1240 See more events: www.farmingtonnm.org/pages/events.html Things happen, events are cancelled, etc., be sure to confirm date, time & place of events you plan to attend. Could GM alfalfa take down entire Canadian organic farming industry? by Jonathan Benson, staff writer (NaturalNews.com) Organic farmers throughout the Canadian province of Ontario are counting the days until they officially lose their organic certifications as a result of potential commercial plantings of genetically-modified (GM) alfalfa. Like in the U.S., government officials in Canada recently approved plantings of GM alfalfa, even though the crop is wholly unnecessary, and will forever taint the integrity of non-GM and organic varieties of alfalfa, as well as other crops. As reported by Global Toronto, an upcoming meeting between conventional farmers and seed growers in Canada is set to iron out the details for how GM alfalfa will be implemented into the food supply commercially. And in the process, many organic farmers who rely on clean, non-GM alfalfa are having their valid concerns ignored by both the factory farming industry and government officials more interested in satisfying demands of Monsanto than protecting the integrity of alfalfa. "The consensus among food scientists is that once it's out there, it inevitably will contaminate the entire seed supply," says Ted Zettel from the Canadian Organic Federation about GM alfalfa. "What that means is that we won't be able to grow the quality of feed for our cattle that we need to grow in order to meet the standard that's been established worldwide for organic food." As we reported on previously, natural alfalfa already grows quite well without the need for herbicides or pesticides, which makes Monsanto's chemical-resistant GM variety completely pointless. Alfalfa is also a highly volatile plant because it is a perennial, which makes the likelihood of widespread contamination with GM traits from the GM variety much more than just a possibility - it is an absolute given in the long term. (Read entire article at www.naturalnews.com.) R CLUBS & MEETINGS Northstar Water Users Association, 334-9375 Board meeting 3rd Thursday, 1:00 pm, 511 Aztec Blvd. NE Priscilla A. Shannon Attorney at Law Divorce, Child Custody Grandparents Rights Guardianships, Probate and Wills • 333-2055 • 105 East Chaco • Aztec A new, free support group in Bloomfield for caregivers of loved ones with Alzheimer’s disease and other dementia will facilitate practical education and the sharing of experiences and resources. Sponsored by the Alzheimer’s Association, New Mexico Chapter, the group will meet the third Monday of every month from 7-8 p.m. at the Bloomfield Community Center. Alzheimer’s Association caregiver support groups aim to deliver informational and emotional support to a population which is under chronic emotional duress. More than 60 percent of family caregivers for people with Alzheimer’s disease and other dementia rate their emotional stress from care giving as high or very high, and about 33 percent of Alzheimer’s and dementia caregivers report symptoms of depression. FMI, contact the Alzheimer’s Assoc., NM Chapter at 505-326-3680, katie.roper@alz.org or visit www.alz.org/newmexico. An estimated 38,000 New Mexicans with Alzheimer’s disease receive unpaid care from approximately 100,000 friends and family members. Flora Vista Mutual Domestic Water Association will have its regular monthly Board of Directors Meeting on the 3rd Wednesday of the month at 5:30 pm. 334-6045 Visit us at our website: www.floravistawater.com 9-12 Project/Tea party The 9-12 Project/Tea Party lunch meeting at Los Hermanitos East will be a 11:30 on Friday, 2 November. Any and all persons welcome. The SJC 9-12/TEA Party Patriots next General Meeting will be November 13, 7 p.m., at the Totah Theater in downtown Farmington. The principal speaker will be Tom Mullins with election results observations and information about the United Nations threatening on our freedoms and seeking to tax Americans. Senator Udall has declined our invitation to attend. The Compassionate Friends Tres Rios chapter of The Compassionate Friends meets on the second Monday of every month, November 12th, at the PMS Hospice building, 608 Riley, across from Farmington Municipal offices at 6:30-8, refreshments served. Call Ginny 860-9381 or Tracey 516-9325 for outreach support or information. San Juan Newcomers Club San Juan Newcomers Club "Morning Out for Coffee" will be Wednesday, 10 am on Nov. 14th at Rubio's Restaurant, 116 Main, Aztec. San Juan Newcomers Club luncheon will be Wednesday, Nov. 28th @ 11:30 am at K-Bob's Restaurant, 2800 East Main, Farmington. For info call Mona 327-2743. Aztec Lion’s Club Meets every 1st and 3rd Monday each month at 219 S. Park Ave., Aztec. Please donate your used eyeglasses. AZTEC ANIMAL SHELTER 825 E. SABENA • AZTEC, NM 87410 505-334-6819 Noon - 4:00 pm - Seven days a week CUUPS: Covenant of Unitarian Aphasia Support Universalist Pagans Meetings are the 2nd and 4th Thursdays at the UU Church, Bowman Hall building, 419 San Juan Drive in Durango. 6:30 - 8:30 pm. For more info: CUUPSDurango@gmail.com or (970) 385-9597 2 ' 2 5 8 3 3 ( 5 * $ 8 * ( ' ( $ 5 0 , & 8 ' $ / , % 1 ( 5 $ 2 ' 7 $ 1 $ 1 ' $ 1 7 1 3 ) 2 5 , ' & 2 $ 2 / ' 6 0 2 & , 6 7 2 1 ( 5 , 7 < % $ 6 ( 6 $ : 1 6 5 ( 2 : 6 $ 3 5 $ , $ 1 7 ( 1 1 , 6 . 7 6 & 6 3 $ 6 8 $ 7 / ( 0 $ 7 6 3 < 2 7 7 2 ) ( 5 $ ) / $ . / , 6 2 ( 7 / 5 2 $ ( 5 , * 2 6 0 8 / 5 , 6 ( 8 ' / + ( ( / 8 ' 5 , * , 6 3 2 7 Meets regularly on the second Thursday of every month, 7pm, 300 S. Ash St. Aztec, NM 87410 334-1414 Lower Animas Community Ditch meetings Lower Animas Community Ditch monthly meeting is the 3rd Tuesday of each month, 4:30 PM at the Chipman's Accounting Office Board Room. To be placed on the Agenda please contact Earnest Smith 505-215-2907 one week prior to the meeting date. Navajo Dam Water Users Association Board meetings on the 2nd Tuesday, #4 CR 42670 at 6 pm. All members welcome. Janie, 632-2386. Aztec Lions Club Alzheimer’s Support Group * $ 7 ( Southside Mutual Domestic Water Association / ( $ ' 2 6 ( 6 : ( ' 6 Group (individuals who have difficulty using speech/language to communicate) meets the second Wednesday of every month from noon 1:00 pm at the San Juan Regional Rehabilitation Hospital. Contact Joyce Lameire at 6092645 for more info. Meets the first & third Monday of each month at the Lions Hall, 219 S. Park Ave. at 7 pm. We want your used eyeglasses. AL-ANON United Methodist Church, 123 E. Chaco, Aztec • Thursdays, 7 pm. Alcoholics Anonymous Meetings, Aztec Group Held at First United Methodist Church, 123 E. Chaco, Aztec (enter Educational bldg. on Church St.) FMI, 327-0731 Monday, Wednesday, Friday, 6:15 am, Attitude Adjustment Tuesday at noon • Tuesday, 7 pm, open 12X12 Friday, 7 pm, open, candlelight Saturday, 7 pm, open, big book Sunday, 7 pm, open discussion The San Juan Masonic Lodge #25 2nd & 4th Tues., 7:30 pm, Lodge bldg., 1020 N. Aztec Blvd. Aztec Kiwanis Club Meets every Thursday morning at 7:00am at Aztec Restaurant. FMI contact Debbie Klein at 330-4631. San Juan Soil and Water Conservation District Board Meetings 1st Tuesday, 6:00 pm, at the Walsh Engineering office, 7415 E. Main, Farmington. 334-3090 x108. Four Corners Blue Star Mothers Monthly meetings of the Blue Star Mothers are held for all family or friends of active military members. Sharing and packaging meetings are held the 1st Monday at 7 P.M., at the Farmington Civic Center and the business meeting is held the 3rd Tuesday at 7 P.M. at Mesa View Middle School, 4451 Wildflower Dr., Farmington. FMI or to donate items for care boxes, contact Judye Leczel at Judye.Leczel@aps.com or 505-716-1480. Better Breathers Meeting, 334-1811 Come to Better Breathers on November 5th for George’s review. Whether you’re old or whether you’re new, you’ll find something just for you. FMI, call Anne Cottrell, president, 334-1811. American Legion Post 93 Meets 2nd Saturday each month at 10:30 a.m., Farmington Civic Center, 200 W. Arrington. FMI, call Donna, 632-3403. Aztec Volunteer Fire Dept. Meets every Wednesday night at 7:00 p.m. at the Aztec Fire Station, 200 N. Ash Street, Aztec. Volunteers Needed! Narcotics Anonymous Meetings For current information on local NA meetings, call the hotline (505-324-1807) or online www.riograndena.org. Four Corners Women's Cancer Support Group THE FOUR CORNERS WOMEN'S CANCER SUPPORT GROUP will meet Saturday, Nov. 3 at 10 AM at the Umbach Cancer Center at 731 W. Animas. All women who have, or had, cancer are invited to attend. No dues,no officers, just an opportunity for friendly discussion with others in a similar situation. Info: Nellie Sandoval at 326-5143 or Gail Williams at 334-3060. Breast Cancer Support Group: Meets the second Wednesday of each month at noon in the San Juan Regional Cancer Center (731 W. Animas). Call 609.6089 for more info. Parkinson’s Disease Support Group: Meets on the fourth Monday of each month at 11:00 a.m. to noon at the San Juan Health Partners Neurosciences conference room (407 South Schwartz Avenue, Suite 202). FMI, Theresa at 609.6575. Stroke Support Group: Meets the second Saturday of the month from 10:00 a.m. to 11:30 a.m. at the San Juan Regional Rehabilitation Hospital Conference Room (525 South Schwartz). Call 334.1647 for more information. Dialysis Support Group: Meets Tuesdays and Thursdays at 3:00 p.m. in the Meditation Room on the 2nd Floor at San Juan Regional Medical Center (801 West Maple St.). Dialysis patients and their family members are welcome to attend. For more information, call 609.6059. AZTEC ANIMAL SHELTER 825 E. Sabena Street • Aztec 505-334-6819 Noon - 4:00 pm • Seven days a week Lost a pet? Looking to Adopt? Come see us! Want to buy USA goods? www.madeinusaforever.com PAGE 24 NOVEMBER 1 - 15 • 2012 Belly Dancing a La Aztec by Marie Merrick Beginning in the late 1990s, belly dancing submerged into the mainstream with fitness videos and DVDs, which have been credited with opening a new market of belly dance fitness classes throughout the US and abroad. More and more, women are turning to belly dancing. One woman’s reason for participating in this class is, “I’m sixty, that’s why I do this flexibility thing,” while another person may say, “I’m doing it for fun and for good health and a new change.” And still another might say, “It is unbelievably good exercise for your back and mood, a good reason for women to get together in a non-judgmental atmosphere.” “Belly dancing is a very forgiving dance. You don’t have to be a certain body type or age or size. Every move will look different on every woman because we are all built different,” Instructress Tausha Ludington enthusiastically informs us. “It promotes good breathing, develops good posture, builds self-esteem, helps prevent osteoporosis, provides great fitness and flexibility, fosters right brained creativity and is just a whole lot of fun.” One shy newcomer to the class was hesitant to join in the photo taking, but the ladies unanimously insisted she join in as they made room for her around the stage steps. She says, “This was my first class but I had a great time. This is a very welcoming, kind group of women. I plan on coming back. I just came down to see what was going on, to check it out. I wasn’t expecting costumes and picture taking.” Katrina Hadley agrees. “We have a great group! The ladies are so sweet and empowering. This class is so fun and educational.” Belly dancing was believed to have originated as birthing rituals that assisted women to prepare for child birth. Many of the moves serve as a positive purpose during deliveries: Shimmies ease the back pain; belly rolls help move the baby through the birth canal; big hip rolls help with the natural contracting of the pelvic bones; and gravity is always nature’s best assistant with delivery. For centuries, birthing rituals were practiced throughout pregnancy. Mothers taught their daughters and they, in turn, taught their daughters. One belly dancing mom is starting her daughters off right by faithfully bringing them with her to every class. Twelve-year-old Laurel Paschall tells us, “I’m trying to gain balance and it’s super fun,” while her five-year-old sister, Nyah, says, “I like it because it’s fun and I like to dress up.” In further expressing their individuality, personality and creativeness, most of these dancers design and sew their own costumes which are nothing short of extraordinary and all are dramatically beautiful. As one woman says, “I like dressing up. I enjoy the company of intelligent, non-judgmental, happy women. I need to keep myself flexible and strong. It’s excellent exercise, without being boring. Where else in Farmington or Aztec can you get in costume and dance every week?” All these colorful costumes and undulating gyrations would have been in sharp contrast to the American societal woman of the Victorian era where roses and genteel floor length dresses were the accepted mode of the day. Belly dancing was introduced in 1893 to the American public at the Chicago World’s Fair. Many were shocked by the exotic attired performers. Even so, the dances were beautiful and graceful and soon spread like wildfire throughout the western world. Tausha has always loved the dance and has been doing it for sixteen years. She began in 1996 while attending college in Durango. She is grateful for the experience The Paschall family have fun togerther as they practice arm and upper torso movements. Photo by Marie Merrick Tausha Ludington demonatrates graceful arm dance poses to her students. Photo by Marie Merrick Colorful costumes and joyful faces abound in this fun loving group of belly dancers. Group photos courtesy of Lucy Gallegos. that bellydance offered her during her pregnancy with her own two children and recommends belly dancing for anyone pregnant or planning to be pregnant. She is not trained or licensed for prenatal bellydance, but she suggests the information for that can be found online. In teaching others how to belly dance, Tausha enjoys seeing the transformation in women as they move from shyness to confidence, form new friendships and develop their own free style of dancing. One of her students agrees, “It’s a great exercise and brings a bunch of really awesome women together to celebrate a timeless dance of womanhood.” It is great to have the opportunity to educate women about the real meaning of belly dance, which is often misrepresented and misunderstood. Traditionally and today, bellydance is a great way to get in touch with inner power, beauty, spirituality. And of course, it is always a pleasure to watch! The costumes, as well as the dance, are very unique and allow women to show their strength and beauty in a deeper way because this stems from the heart, from the soul. It’s very spiritual and integrating of heart, mind and spirit. Celeste Lujan and Rhonda have been attending for the past three years, “We really enjoy the dance, the friends, the beauty and the balance.” Belly dance is a low-impact exercise suitable for all ages. It is good exercise for the prevention of osteoporosis in older people. Many of the moves involve isolations, which improves flexibility of the torso. Belly dance moves are beneficial to the spine, as the full-body undulation moves, lengthens (decompress), and strengthens the entire column of spinal and abdominal muscles in a gentle way. (Wikipedia.) One woman, unsure of her footing, occasionally joins the class by performing all the arm and leg movements while sitting safely in a chair. Tausha incorporates low impact moves and warm ups for seniors during the first half hour of class with more generalized instruction during the second half. Laura Ryan says, “I’ve been dancing all my life – from ballet to belly. I love the camaraderie of this wonderful group of people, and I love the work-out my body gets!” Jessie Huntington wanted to do something special for her husband on his seventieth birthday. She learned to belly dance and surprised him as well as many of their friends by performing "The Dance of the Turban.” Smiling, she recalls, “He was surprised, completely surprised.” Belly dancing is an enjoyable avenue to keeping healthy and for many it is easier than performing fast paced aerobics. It is also a dance form that welcomes all ages, shapes and sizes, allowing for each individual a unique avenue of physical and spiritual expression! For more information, call 505-419-9953. When you or someone you know needs help with... • Family Problems • Financial Assistance • Health Care & Rehabilitation • Child Care • Support Groups • Alcohol & Drug Abuse • Other Problems & Services Helpline 326-HELP (4357) Chicken Speak by Rosalie Lawson Current BLOOMFIELD POLICE ATHLETIC LEAGUE and the BLOOMFIELD HIGH SCHOOL CHEERLEADERS Will be hosting our 2nd Annual CRAFT FAIR Saturday December 8, 2012 9:00 am – 3:00 pm Bloomfield High School North Gym (Old Gym) 520 N. 1st Street, Bloomfield COME AND SHOP FOR A ONE OF A KIND CHRISTMAS GIFT! For more info or to rent a booth: Cynthia Atencio or Teena McKinney at 632-6311