WORLD`S LARGEST HUMMINGBIRD fEEDER THE HUMAN

WWW.MOUNTAINTIMES.NET
Mountain Times
MAY 2009
WORLD’S LARGEST HUMMINGBIRD FEEDER
the human
hummingbird feeder
" Abigail Alfano is hand feeding her hummingbirds."
Picture was taken by her husband, Sam Alfano.
(Photo reprinted with permission)
Abigail Alfano of Pine, Lousiana is the human hummingbird feeder.
(See story and close-up picture on page 14)
Counterfeit Money in Otero county
Reports done by DPS have shown counterfeit in the area. According
to the reports, two involve fifty dollar bills and the other a one hundred
dollar bill. It appears suspect/s bleach out a real five dollar bill and
then reprint the image of a fifty or a hundred over the bleached bill
which is still on real currency paper.
If an inattentive clerk who's looking for just the presence of a
magnetic strip, and or a correct mark from their counterfeit pen will
not know it is counterfeit. The clerks/tellers or any other businesses
need to pay close attention to what is written on the magnetic strip
which also could be done by magnifying glass and to examine the
bill closely to see if any other images come through with light IE.
watermark image of Lincoln from a bleached five dollar bill in the
background with the copied reprint of Grant from a fifty dollar bill or
Franklin from a one hundred dollar bill.
On the counterfeit bills we have seized, the magnetic strips read
five dollars which did not match the reprinted image of a fifty dollar
or hundred dollar bill. We also noticed that on one of the seized bills
there appears to be two magnetic strips. One of the strips is from the
bleached five dollar bill the other is a photocopy from the sample bill
used during the copying process.
Israel R. Trujillo, Detective Sergeant
Alamogordo Department of Public Safety
(575)439-4300 ext. 128 or (575)439-4325 ext. 128
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The world’s largest hummingbird feeder is located on 305 Panther Ave
in Cloudcroft, NM.
The feeder was designed by Steven Adams and his eleven year old
daughter, Abby. Tim Trembly was the artist that actually built it.
According to Steven, “It is a real working feeder with an internal bladder,
feeder tubes, and flower petals.” Completely empty the hummingbird
feeder weighs 17,000 pounds and can hold up to 6,000 pounds of sugar
water. The feeder technically cannot be filled to capacity because it is
suspended from a large cable connecting two trees (See inset on page
14) and probably would collapse, bringing the feeder to the ground.
The feeder is approximately 23 feet in height and 5 ft in width.
Just recently the Adams’ submitted their invention to the Guinness Book
of World Records (GWR) for consideration and ratification. At this time,
“The World’s Largest Hummingbird Feeder” is not recognized, therefore
after submission for request, the GWR will evaluate any proposals and
decide whether it is acceptable as a new record.
Steven is very proud of his daughters creativity and says, “This shows
what a young girl can do if she has a great idea and puts her mind to it.
Abby is destined to accomplish many great things in her life!”
Broad-tailed Hummingbirds
Read more about the broad-tailed hummingbirds on page 14 as they make
their way back into the Mountains.
CONTEST
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Don’t Tell Anybody, but....by Don Vanlandingham
Winter is slowly but surely going away. She's
leaving in a huff as she always does...like an
obnoxious relative that has overstayed their
welcome and finally got the message. Lot's of
wind as usual.
Winter promises for Cloudcroft went unkempt
again this past winter. No chance for the snow
play areas to put together any kind of a winter
business. Sadly that happens more winters than
not around here.
I, for one, think Cloudcroft village movers and
shakers should re-think their approach to winter
tourism. Maybe they should organize more
indoor activities that would attract tourists.
Here's an idea. Laugh if you want to.
Villages and cities all across the fruited plain
use the "festival" moniker to draw visitors.
I have done a cursory search of the internet
and there seems to be a huge interest in jigsaw
puzzles.
Of course in Cloudcroft jigsaw puzzles rate
right up there with Rummicube and Scrabble
as indoor activities when the weather outside
is frightful.
It seems to me we could turn this popular
winter indoor pastime into a village-wide jigsaw
festival with related activities such as art exhibits,
specials at retail shops and restaurants, etc.
Cloudcroft doesn't need a lot of reasons for
people to visit. After all it is the most beautiful
spot in North America. All Cloudcroft needs is
an excuse for people to come. Snow play is nice
but it's not often available. An indoor-oriented
festival (whether it be a jigsaw tournament or
something else) is not weather sensitive. If the
snow comes, so much the better.
Just an idea.
Don Vanlandingham writes a weekly newsletter
about life in the Sacramento Mountains. Contact
him at Don.Cloudcroft@gmail.com
Letters to the Editor
Dear Editor,
My name is Peyton Schultheis. I go to Evansville Day School in Evansville
Indiana.
I am 10 years old and in fourth grade I am doing a report on New Mexico, and
I need you and your readers help. I would be so happy if you could publish my
letter. I would like it if your readers could send me information like postcards,
brochures, etc. about New Mexico.
Thanks so much, Peyton Scultheis
They can send information to:
Evansville Day School 3400 N. Green River Rd.
Evansville, IN 47715 C/O Peyton Sculties
CLOC Calendar 2009
May 22-24 Memorial Day Melodrama (Mayfair weekend)
June 5-6 Melodrama
June 19-20 Melodrama (High Rolls Cherry Festival June 20-21)
To The Editor:
Administration’s Shotgun Approach To Economy
Part 1 of 3—The Stimulus
The recently enacted $787 billion economic stimulus plan
designed to create jobs includes about $300 billion in tax cuts for
individuals and businesses, which will not create jobs because
companies are not hiring and consumers are saving their money, not
making purchases they can postpone. The Commerce Department
recently reported a U.S. savings rate of 5%, which is the highest since
1995.
A significant portion of the remaining $487 billion goes to social
programs, which will help the needy in some instances, but will not
create jobs in the private sector where they are needed. Examples
are $50 million to the National Endowment for the Arts; $380 million
for Women, Infants & Children’s welfare; $2.4 billion for neighborhood
stabilization; $160 million for “paid volunteers” (???) for Community
Service; $20 billion for food stamps; $150 million for the Smithsonian;
and $55 million for the Historic Preservation Funds.
The Administration’s projection of creating 3.5 million jobs
by the end of 2010 is optimistically off target because it is based
on an average unemployment rate of 8.1% for 2009, which was hit
in February, and it is rising. It now appears the economic stimulus
plan will create about 2.5 million jobs, which doesn’t come close to
replacing the 4.4 million jobs lost in this recession, plus the 500,000
to 600,000 more jobs lost each passing month.
For 2009 the Obama Administration predicts a 1.2% decline
in Gross Domestic Product (GDP), but a majority of economists
predict a 2.0% decrease in GDP; and in 2010 it’s a 3.2% projected
increase by the Administration, but a 2.0% increase predicted by the
economists. For the 4th quarter of 2008 the Bush Administration
projected a 3.8% decrease in GDP, but the actual decrease was 6.2%.
Essentially, the Administrations are generating economic policies
based on optimistic projections of our GDP, but prudence might
dictate more conservative projections.
Maybe the President should end his ongoing campaign
mode of governing, curtail his continuous campaign and media
appearances, start operating as the chief executive of this country,
and concentrate on creating good paying American jobs as his
primary objective.
Donald A. Moskowitz Londonderry, NH
(575) 987-2233
PAGE 2
MOUNTAIN TIMES - MAY 2009 ISSUE 1-575-987-2523
Views From the Pioneer Village
By Dr. Bill Boverie
The Switchback
Perhaps the best-known feature of the
Alamogordo and Sacramento Mountain
Railroad was the switchback. The railroad
reached mile 19.3 in Toboggan Canyon
in November 1898, where it ran into an
escarpment below Cloudcroft too steep
to climb. The escarpment is not a shear
cliff, but is a jumble of hills with intervening
valleys. Somehow the train had to climb the sides of those hills and cross
the intervening valleys on tall trestles. The problem was that the slope
would be entirely too steep. It is estimated that a slope of over eight
percent would have been required.
Construction halted for almost a year - until October 1899 - while they
tried to find a solution. Meanwhile construction shifted to the main
line.
Apparently the construction engineer (Sumner) was completely
stumped, even though he had built the Denver and Rio Grande narrow
gauge railroad in Colorado. It is said that he had a nervous breakdown
over it. The story also says that the idea of using a switchback to reduce
the slope was suggested by his son, although different accounts have the
son being anywhere from a young child to being a college student.
The switchback was a long zigzag in the shape of a highly elongated “Z.“
A train drove to a dead end, then by switching track behind it, backed
across the connecting branch to another dead end, and then by switching
the track ahead of it, pulled forward.
(This was not the first use of a switchback. Switchbacks in the form of
zigzags with sharp curves, but without the dead ends, were used as early
as 1827 on a gravity railroad in Pennsylvania called the Mauch Chunk
and Summit Hill Railway, but better known today as the Switchback
Railroad. It brought coal from Mount Hood to Philadelphia. It did not
use locomotives, and the empty cars were returned by using an inclined
ramp and a steam-powered winch to pull them up the mountain. Closer
to home, the Santa Fe had a switchback in Raton pass in 1878, which
was replaced by a tunnel in 1879. And the Great Northern Railway had
used eight dead-end switchbacks on Stephens Pass in Washington
State. These switchbacks were constructed in 1892, but were replaced
by a 2.6 mile tunnel in 1900 because of the time delays caused by the
switchbacks. Finally the Cass Railroad in West Virginia, founded in 1901,
had two dead-end switchbacks. Thus by 1901 switchbacks were in use
across the country.)
But there was one more problem - there was not enough room on any
hill in the escarpment for a switchback long enough to sufficiently reduce
the slope. This was solved by putting the switchback on the steep side of
the canyon, just before reaching the escarpment. The train thus climbed
up the canyon wall as it went through the switchback. It then went
onto the first hill in the escarpment via a major trestle spanning Bailey
Canyon. Then the train climbed a succession of hillsides with trestles
over intervening valleys to Cloudcroft.
The connecting branch of the switchback was 0.6 miles long, and the
dead end segments were long enough to accommodate 22 cars and a
locomotive. Longer trains had an engine in the middle so that it could
be segmented for going through the switchback. Putting the second
engine in the middle also spread them out so that only one engine would
be on even the longest trestle at a time. In theory, a switchback allows
the grade to be reduced by a factor of three, although it probably was no
more than a factor of two in this case. Even then, there was an adjacent
half-mile section with a 6.4 percent maximum grade. The line had been
kept to about a five percent grade up to this point.
Although the line from Toboggan to Cloudcroft was only 5.2 miles long,
it took 40 minutes because of the switchback and the curves. (The time
from Alamogordo to the Cloudcroft depot was 2 hours and 40 minutes.)
It rose 2000 feet and had 27 major trestles - about half of both the total
elevation change and the number major trestles of the entire line. If you enjoy our monthly articles, you will really enjoy our museum and
pioneer village. Our summer hours are 10 am to 4 p.m., Monday, Tuesday,
Friday, and Saturday, and 1 to 4 p.m. on Sunday.
SEE
HISTORY
COME
ALIVE!
Can you help identify these cowboys?
Join us for:
Living History
May 2nd
&
Heritage Days
Sacramento Mountains
Historical Museum &
Pioneer Village
June 18-20
Please call for additional
information:
Office (575) 682-2932
Email: smhsmuseumoffice@
yahoo.com
FUN FOR THE
ENTIRE
FAMILY!
Re-enactors,
Demonstrations, and
Historical Exhibits!
SMHS would like to thank the Cloudcrof t Chamber of Commerce,
The Village of Cloudcroft, and the NM Department of Tourism for their generosity
and assistance in our advertising effort!
PAGE 3
This is a neat photo. I actually know a little bit about it by
the writing. It is of the Elk Cowboy Team and was taken by Jim
Alexander in Cloudcroft on July 4, 1912. We would love to know
who some of the cowboys are and I am hopeful that someone
may recognize one or more of the gentlemen pictured. Thanks
so much for your help!
Kind Regards,
Windy Jenkins, Director (575) 682-2932
MOUNTAIN TIMES - MAY 2009 ISSUE 1-575-987-2523
with the county on the paper work to change it Joan Schug donated horse blankets for the end
TIMBERON DEVELOPMENT COUNCIL
Minutes of the Meeting Held April 11, 2009 from private to public. The Timberon Airstrip is tables which look very nice. Gwen has someone
The meeting was called to order by President
Everett Putney at 10:00 am. The Pledge of
Allegiance to the flag was given followed by a
prayer from B.F. Adams. Everett asked if anyone
would like the minutes read from the previous
meeting. Scott Millar made a motion to accept
the minutes as submitted. Rick Merrick seconded
the motion and the minutes were approved.
The Treasurer’s report was given by Gwen
Adams. A motion was made by Donna Millar
to accept the report. B.F. Adams seconded the
motion and the motion was approved. Gwen
read the bills which totaled $155.00. Donna
Millar made a motion to pay our bills. Ron
McCormick seconded the motion and it was
approved.
Rick Merrick gave a report on the Park
Thinning Project. Rick and Jim Ackermann have
completed Mary Glover Park, Shallow Creek Park
and Deer Park. He reminded everyone to turn in
the hours spent cutting the wood and hauling
for fire wood to Fran Trendler. We need these
hours for the grant as in kind service. Everett
mentioned he has the signs for each of the parks
and will get them installed at a later date. Rick
advised everyone to drive by the parks and think
of projects we can do in the parks. Gwen Adams
advised water to Mary Glover Park is still an issue.
Everett said he will mention it to Otero County
and Timberon Water & Sanitation District.
Rick gave an update on the Community Action
Plan. A draft copy is available for review and
it will be put on the web sight. He thanked
the committee for all of their hard work in
putting it together. Everett mentioned he had
reviewed it and it is one of the best documents
for presentation, documentation etc. Jackie
Fioretti reminded Rick to add a signature page
for the supporting agencies. Everett mentioned
he didn’t think we would need more than twenty
five copies of the laminated final copy.
Everett gave an update on the Timberon Airstrip.
There is a possibility Otero County will pay the
Liability Insurance this year. Everett is working
with the county on this item which is due this
month. He also advised an engineer is working
PAGE 4
an economic development for Timberon. The
T.D.C. is not compensated for managing and
maintaining the airstrip. The weeds are starting
to be a problem on the runway. Work needs to
be done on the tie downs. There was discussion
of having another fly-in.
The Timberon Development Council, Inc.
has three pieces of property to be sold. After
discussion, John Howell made a motion to give
all three properties to Roberts Realty to sell for
us. Charles Cummings seconded the motion
and it passed.
Everett mentioned he had taken soil samples
of the lower lake to an engineer in El Paso but
after the last TWSD meeting he has dropped the
study. TWSD, would like to get the lake open and
they are talking about putting a liner in the lake
instead of using the bentonite. Ron McCormick
mentioned TWSD would like to use the upper
lake for fly fishing. We need volunteers to clean
up the lower lake. It was agreed to schedule
the clean up on May 14, 15 & 16. This will be
finalized at our May 9th meeting. Mark your
calendar, sharpen your saw blades, shovels etc.
fill your lawn mowers with gasoline and come
join us. We usually have a fun time along with
all of the work.
Gwen Adams gave a report on the July 4th
event. She mentioned we have a “Western Days”
Logo. Fourteen events have been confirmed
and five are pending. We have seven venders
confirmed and B.F. mentioned we need more
food vendors. We will need volunteers to help
repair the picnic tables and fix the hot dogs for
the youths that will rake the pine needles in front
of the lodge. Everett mentioned the erosion
ruts in the lawn need to be filled in with dirt.
The Timberon Volunteer Fire Department will
have their pancake breakfast, Mary Hamlet is
in charge of the parade and Jeremy McMahon
is having his ATV run that weekend. There are
costume contests, pie contests etc. B. F. Adams
is in charge of the booth assignments. Everett
mentioned the bill for the liability insurance on
this event will be forthcoming.
Gwen gave a report on the beautification of the
lodge. The curtains and cornice boards are up.
MOUNTAIN TIMES - MAY 2009 ISSUE
to make the shelf brackets and use the organic
wood with a rough cut for the shelves. She is
looking for ideas to display the history of the
lodge. If you have an idea call her.
Rick Merrick gave a report on attending the
second meeting of the Southwest Sustainable
Forest Partnership. This organization is out of
Arizona and identifies ways to use small diameter
wood. It is a networking for small businesses. All
of the agencies such as State Forestry, Bureau of
Land Management etc. are represented at these
meetings. Ruidoso is utilizing 100% of their slash
from tree thinning. Rick also mentioned there
is a New Mexico Forest Industries Association
from Santa Fe, New Mexico who is a non profit
organization. Their purpose is to help non
profit organizations to find out about grant
workshops, training, and equipment needs. The
membership for this is $50.00 per year to receive
their e-mails. Gwen Adams made a motion for
TDC to pay for the membership and Scott Millar
seconded it. The motion passed and Rick will be
TDC’s representative to receive the e-mails from
this organization.
Everett Putney mentioned Otero County will
pave another mile of our Sacramento Road this
year and there isn’t any money in the budget
for next year. He also read an e-mail from Burt
Rubinowitz on providing cellular phone service
in Timberon. This is ongoing and nothing final
yet. He also mentioned there is a need for
recycling within Timberon. Perhaps the existing
trash contractor has containers for recycling.
Ron mentioned there is a place in Alamogordo
which will pay twenty five cents per pound for
recycling. There will be more on this later. T.D.C.
has caps for sale; they are ten dollars each.
Scott Millar mentioned next month we will be
celebrating Memorial Day and please take time
to honor our war dead who gave the ultimate
sacrifice for our country. Timberon’s Memorial
Service will be held at 8:00 a.m. on Monday,
May 25th at the cemetery. Not at 10:00 a.m.
as previously announced. This will be the 25th
annual observance in Timberon and should be a
very special event. Gwen mentioned the church
is thinking about providing coffee and donuts
this day. Scott also encouraged everyone to
wear a “Buddy Poppy”, not just on Memorial Day
but all year as a remembrance of the fallen. All
donations from the Buddy Poppies go directly
into Veteran and Community Services locally.
The Cloudcroft High School has asked the VFW
to present the “Voice of Democracy” awards on
May 13th at 1:00 p.m. during the school wide
awards program. Everyone in Timberon is
invited to attend. He mentioned without TDC
the VFW “Voice of Democracy” Program would
not have been such a success. State Secretary of
NM Department of Veteran’s Service, John Garcia
is looking for a location for a Veteran’s Retreat
Center. After discussion it was suggested we
invite him to our May meeting.
Rick reminded everyone to think about
reactivating the Community Action Team.
This committee would research grants, review
proposals etc., and make recommendations at
the T.D.C meetings. Don’t forget your recipes
for the cook books!
The meeting adjourned at 11:45am. The May
meeting will be Sat. May 09, 2009 at 10:00 a.m.
at the T. D.C. Office, 1841 Sacramento. These
are open meetings and everyone is invited.
Respectfully submitted,
Jackie Fioretti, Secretary
1-575-987-2523
TIMBERON’S
GRADUATING SENIORS
Sean Ross
mitch Goss
Mitch is the son of Gary and Debbie Goss of
Ruidoso, NM. and the grandson of Paul and
Peggy Goss of Timberon.
Mitch was born in El Paso, TX. and moved
to Timberon in 1994. He attended the local
Timberon school until 3rd grade when the
school closed and he was bused to the
Cloudcroft school systems.
Mitch has a 4.0 grade point average and will
be graduating as class salutatorian.
Mitch is enrolled for the
fall at N.M.S.U. in Las Cruces.,
where he is currently thinking
of majoring in graphic arts.
Chelsea Flora
Chelsea is the daughter of Dwyn (Lynn)
Hicks of Timberon.
Chelsea was born in Hobbs, NM where she
lived until she moved to Timberon with her
mom in 1998.
She plans on first attending NMSU-A in
Alamogordo and eventually transferring to a
college in Georgia. She will work on receiving
her veterinary technician certification, moving
on to a surgical tech degree and possibly even
animal massage therapy.
Chelsea’s states ,” My dream is to make it
through college successfully and start out at
a good pace when I get out of college.”
Sean is the son of James and Yvonne Ross,
nephew of Kevin and Danelle Ross.
Sean was born in El Paso and has lived in
Timberon almost all of his life. Sean also
attended the Timberon school until the 3rd
grade.
Sean will be attending N.M.S.U. in the fall
where he plans on studying in the media arts
field to become a concept artist.
(A concept artist is one who generates a visual
design for an item, character, or area that does
not yet exist. This includes, film production,
animation production and more recently video
game production.)
Kaylie Sexton
www.ocec-inc.com
Kaylie is the daughter of Craig
and Donna Sexton. She was
born in Big Spring, Tx and has
lived in Timberon since she was
nine years old.
Office
575-682-2521
Outage Assistance
1-800-548-4660
Come to the :
Timberon
Graduation
Dinner
Saturday
May 16th
5:30
Meat, desserts, and drinks
will be provided.
Please bring a side dish.
EVERYONE IS WELCOME!
Send in this entry form to win:
Dinner for two at the
SPRING MOUNTAIN RESTAURANT
(A $25.00 GIFT CERTIFICATE)
Name____________________________________________
Phone number_____________________________________
Address___________________________________________
Mountain Times Newspaper P.O. Box 266
Timberon, NM 88350
All entries must be received by May 20th, 2009. No facsimiles.
SPRING MOUNTAIN
RESTAURANT
& TRADING POST
We Use ONLY
US Farm Raised
Catfish
Best BBQ and Catfish in New Mexico
HOURS:
Thursday, Fri, & Sat 11am - 8pm
Sun 11 am - 3 pm CLOSED Mon-Wed.
HWY 82 Mile Marker 12
(Between High Rolls and Cloudcroft)
Call in Orders (575) 682-4550
PAGE 5
MOUNTAIN TIMES - MAY 2009 ISSUE
Cobbler Cider
Southwestern Art
Local Crafts & Collectibles
All-You-Can-Eat Catfish
Fridays & Saturdays
5:00-Closing
Reservations Suggested
1-575-987-2523
Facts from a Pharmacist
By Dave Eerkes
What is Giardia?
Giardia or Giardiasis is also known
as traveler’s diarrhea. Giardiasis is
an infection of the small intestine
caused by a microscopic organism
(protozoa), Giardia lamblia.
Giardiasis outbreaks can occur in
communities in both developed and
developing countries where water
supplies become contaminated
with raw sewage. It can be contracted by drinking water from lakes or
streams where water-dwelling animals such as beavers and muskrats, or
domestic animals such as sheep, have caused contamination. It is also
spread by direct person-to-person contact, which has caused outbreaks
in institutions such as day care centers. Travelers are at risk for Giardiasis
throughout the world. Campers and hikers are at risk if they drink
untreated water from streams and lakes.
Symptoms are abdominal pain, diarrhea, gas or bloating, headache, loss
of appetite, low-grade fever, nausea, swollen or distended abdomen and
vomiting. The time between being infected and developing symptoms
is 7-14 days. The acute phase lasts 2-4 weeks.
Treatment for Giardiasis could be letting the infection go away on its
own. Anti-infective medicines may be used. Cure rates are generally
greater than 80%. Drug resistance may be a factor in treatment failures,
sometimes requiring a change in antibiotic therapy. In pregnant women,
treatment should wait until after delivery, because some of the drugs
used to treat the infection can be harmful to the unborn baby.
It is common for the infection to go away on its own. However, persistent
infections have been reported and need further antibiotic treatment.
Some people who have had Giardia infections for a long time continue
having symptoms even after the infection is gone.
Complications from Giardia can be dehydration, mal absorption
(inadequate absorption of nutrients from the intestinal tract), and weight
loss.
You can prevent Giardia by using a water purification method such
as boiling, filtration, or iodine treatment before drinking surface water.
Hikers or others who use surface water should consider all sources as
potentially contaminated. Workers in day care centers or institutions
should use good hand washing and hygiene techniques when going
from patient to patient.
E-mail or send your questions to Dave at newspaper@mountaintimes.net
or Mountain Times Newspaper P.O. Box 266, Timberon, NM 88350
UDALL INTRODUCES LEGISLATION TO MAKE SKIES, ROADS SAFER
Bill Requires Airline Training On Air Rage, Intoxicated Passengers
U.S. Senator Tom Udall, D-N.M., today introduced
legislation supported by Mothers Against Drunk
Driving (MADD) and the Association of Flight
Attendants (AFA-CWA) that would require
airlines to train employees and gate attendants
on recognizing and dealing with intoxicated
or belligerent passengers. To watch Udall’s
introduction speech on the floor of the U.S.
Senate Chamber, click http://www.youtube.
com/watch?v=5WImV3dwMAQ.
Current federal regulations prohibit an
intoxicated person from boarding a flight, but it
is not mandatory for airlines to provide training
to ensure that regulations are obeyed. Udall’s
legislation would mandate that all airline and
gate attendants receive alcohol server training
to better determine if a customer should board a
flight or be served alcohol, and to manage drunk
or belligerent customers onboard.
“This legislation would ensure that airline
personnel get the information they need to help
keep travelers safe,” said Udall. “They are the
front line in keeping air passengers safe and they
deserve training to match that responsibility.”
Udall was prompted to research airline alcohol
server protocol in 2006 after a drunk driving
accident occurred in his district resulting in the
deaths of five family members and leaving one
survivor.
The family of six was driving home from a
soccer match on I-25 when they were struck by
a drunk driver speeding down the wrong side
of the interstate. The driver, who also died in
the accident, had a blood alcohol content level
four times the legal limit. According to other
passengers, just hours before the accident, he
was noticeably intoxicated on board a flight to
New Mexico.
In the course of his research on airline
personnel training, Udall also discovered that
“air rage” incidents—dangerous outbursts
by airline passengers frequently fueled by a
combination of anxiety and alcohol—have
risen 400 percent since 2000. Roughly 10,000
incidents occur each year in the United States
alone, and experts believe that most are driven
by excessive alcohol consumption.
Flight attendants are often the only personnel
capable of controlling who boards a plane,
onboard alcohol consumption, and outbursts
when they occur. Many may never receive
training on how to execute this important
Timberon
Rentals
responsibility.
“Unfortunately, my legislation cannot stop all
tragic drunk driving accidents from occurring,”
said Udall. “But it will make it easier for flight
attendants to protect passengers from air rage
and more difficult for intoxicated air passengers
to deplane and drive.”
MOUNTAINTOP
ELECTRIC CORP.
NM EE-98
LIC #359616
P.O. BOX 409
TIMBERON, NM 88350
LICENSED * BONDED * INSURED
JOHN SIRACUSANO
PH/FAX (575) 987-2341
JONJITSU@HOTMAIL.COM
~ Skin Care at the Spa ~
Timberon, NM
Facials
575-987-2201
Massages
Spa Tan
Pedicue and Manicure
Waxing
Permanent Makeup
Apartments
Microdermabrasion Facial is an alternative to laser or chemical peel. The non-invasive treatment
can reduce sun damage, age spots, fine lines and acne scarring. Your skin is polished and dead skin cells
a actually vacuumed away! This is all done by a trained professional... leaving your skin fresh and renewed... $75.00
Two and tHree
Bedroom Houses
The Royal Treatment is a great way to pamper yourself or someone you care about. The treatment includes a 30
minute
massage, a signature facial designed especially for you, and a total hand and foot treatment... all part of your special
day... $145.00
Many other treatments are available to fit any budget. Ask for Liz Noble Walker at the...
PRIVATE RV SPACE
FOR RENT
Noble Spa
$35 to $70 per Night
$80 per Night
575-437-5175
Kevin & Shantel Keune,
Managers
PAGE 6
MOUNTAIN TIMES - MAY 2009 ISSUE
1-575-987-2523
Special thanks to the Ruidoso Library
Thanks to the
Ruidoso library
for the generous
donation of the
approximate
100 audio books
on cassette
tapes. (Pictured
to the left.)
If you haven't
been to the The
Smith Memorial
Library in
awhile, come
down and check
it out! The hours
of operation are Monday, Wednesday, and Fridays from 11-2.
They receive new books and DVD's each week! Not only does the library
carry books, but they have a large selection of DVD's, VHS, jigsaw puzzles, and
computer games.
The library also has a SW section featuring books on New Mexico, large print
books, and new arrivals.
Please come by Saturday the 4th of July, they will be having a large book sale
located outside of the Lodge. ALL books will be only 25 cents!
The Smith Memorial Library appreciates any monetary donations or books
no older than ten years.
We would like to thank all of the generous people for their prior donations
and patronage.
Stacey Pugmire and her children, Jericho, (almost 3) and
Jordan, 10 months regularly visit the children's section of
the library where they borrow children’s books, videos, and
computer games.
Volunteers Needed
May 14, 15, and 16
If needed. (Thurs, Fri, Sat)
8:30 AM
Your Donation dollars at work!
Timberon Development Council
is sponsoring a work day at the
community lodge fishing lakes.
TWSD is targeting this summer for
the lakes to open, but a lot of cleanup work is required.
Will you help? There are trees to cut,
slash to pick up and general cleanup. Tools need: chain saws, rakes,
hoes, shovels, etc.
The Timberon Volunteer Fire Department would like to thank Jim Sims
of Sierra Propane for the donation of the concrete to finish the slab for
the JFE 1 fire truck.
Also, thanks to Steve Worrell from Sierra Mesa Construction for donating
his time and labor.
Pictured from left to right: Steve Worrell, Joe Wheeler; Fire Chief, Joe Bob
Shields, of Sierra Propane, and Richard Rodriquez; Assistant Fire Chief.
SANDERS
&
DANLEY
2521 Nor th Florida - (505) 437-3820
Alamogordo, New Mexico
Since 1959
Thank you to the people of Timberon for your generous donations!
PAGE 7
MOUNTAIN TIMES - MAY 2009 ISSUE
1-575-987-2523
Teenager Appreciates Military Veterans and War Heroes
Hello. My name is Kyle Nappi. I am 18 years
old and I live in Ostrander, Ohio. I am currently
a Senior at Buckeye Valley High School. I have a
big interest in history, specifically WWII. I collect
military medals, patches, badges, insignia,
field gear, and a very unique thing, veteran
autographs. I have a collection of autographs
from military veterans who served during WWI,
WWII, Korea, Vietnam, Gulf War, and the present
war in Iraq.
I have collected the autographs and stories
from nearly 2,000 veterans in 20 countries.
The oldest veteran is currently 112 years old
and the youngest enlisted at age 14. I have
autographs from Pearl Harbor survivors, D-Day
veterans, airman, POWs, the last WWI veterans,
generals, U.S. Presidents, USS Indianapolis
survivors, Holocaust survivors, and even German
soldiers!
Back in June I was interview by PBS, to talk
about my collection for an interview that was
to be shown online (YouTube). After that, I
was interviewed for "The Columbus World War
II Roadshow." You can find this interview on
YouTube under "Kyle Nappi."
I was recently interviewed by the American
Legion for an article that appeared in their
August magazine. Here is an internet link to the
online article: http://www.legion.org/whatsnew/
publications/newsletter/story?id=635
I also had the privilege of going to Washington,
D.C. in March of 2008. I was invited to the
Pentagon, by the Secretary of Defense (Robert
Gates) for a Ceremony honoring WWI veterans.
I was able to meet with the Chairman of the
Joint Chiefs of Staff, Mike Mullen as well with
the last American WWI veteran, Frank Buckles.
He is the last surviving WWI veteran...
out of nearly 5 million that served. He's
the last survivor. Before not to long, the
WWII veterans will dwindle down as
well (sadly nearly 1,100 die each day),
and we must not only remember their
stories, but the ones who did not come
home. "All gave some, some gave all."
There are so many people, my
age, who don’t fully understand the
magnitude about the
veterans and what they Above:
did for our country. I think Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff, Navy Admiral Mike
it's inspiring to these Mullen and myself in the Pentagon for the WWI Ceremony.
veterans when, someone
is asking for their autographs/
military experiences, but also
when the person asking is that of
my age. I have received letters from
veterans who thank me for what I
am doing and that it is unfortunate
that so many people tend to
forget these stories. Some veterans
have even sent me their military
insignia, medals, books, etc (one
veteran even sent his POW dog
tag) simply because they say that Mr. Frank Buckles, and myself. He is the last surviving American
there is no one in their family who WWI veteran. He was 108 in February.
cares about it. I think it's amazing
that they would send all this to me,
have for them about their service time.
a complete stranger to them.
My main purpose for writing is to share with
So, overall, I am trying to obtain as many you that there are people from my generation
autographs/stories from veterans as I can to who do remember the past and the sacrifices
ensure that their stories are not forgotten. This that were made for our country.
is a hobby that keeps me quite busy - I get over Thank you very much for your time.
5 things in the mail each day, followed by 1015+ e-mails, fielding phone calls, writing up Sincerely,
letters, sending out letters (a lot of postage) to
numerous veterans, locating/finding addresses, Kyle Nappi
typing up the questions, translating the letters 1890 Warren Rd.
(for those foreign veterans), etc. It is also a Ostrander, OH 43061 USA
costly hobby as well – a lot of money goes into Phone Number: 740-363-8095
postage, envelopes, paper, ink, etc. Some people E-mail: knap607@yahoo.com
have sent books of stamps to
help defray shipping costs.
This is pretty much a daily
routine so it's almost like my
job, so to speak.
If any veterans would like to
get in touch, I will provide them
with a questionnaire, which
includes some basic questions I
(575) 434-3042
Introducing A new "pet vac"
Which has now been installed in the dog wash.
(575) 682-2645 Vet (24 Hours)
575 682-2910
PAGE 8
MOUNTAIN TIMES - MAY 2009 ISSUE
1-575-987-2523
The Meaning of Memorial Day
By Scott Millar Commander, VFW Post 11999 Cloudcroft, NM
Memorial Day is a sacred day to all war veterans.
None need to be reminded of the reason that
Memorial Day must be commemorated, but what
about the general public, and more important,
future generations? Do most non-veterans really
recognize the importance of the day honoring their
fellow Americans killed in war?
Judging from what Memorial Day has become—
simply another day off from work—the answer is a
resounding no. Perhaps a reminder is due then, and
it is my duty as a veteran to relay the message.
Sacrifice is meaningless without remembrance.
America’s collective consciousness demands that
all citizens recall and be aware of the deaths of their
fellow countrymen during wartime.
Far too often, the nation as a whole takes for
granted the freedoms all Americans enjoy. Those
freedoms were paid for with the lives of others
few of us actually knew. That’s why they are all
collectively remembered on one special day.
This should be regarded as a civic obligation.
For this is a national debt that can only be truly
repaid by individual Americans. By honoring the
nation’s war dead, we preserve their memory and
thus their service and sacrifice in the memories of
future generations.
They came from all walks of life and regions of the
country. But they all had one thing in common—
love of and loyalty to country. This bond cemented
ties between them in times of trials, allowing a
diverse lot of Americans to achieve monumental
ends.
We remember the loss of loved ones, a sense of
loss that takes group form. In essence, America is
commemorating those who made the greatest
sacrifice possible—giving one’s own life on behalf
of others.
Means of paying tribute vary. Pausing for a
few moments of personal silence is available to
everyone.
Attending commemorative ceremonies is the
most visible way of demonstrating remembrance:
Placing flags at grave sites, marching in parades,
sponsoring patriotic programs, dedicating
memorials and wearing Buddy Poppies are
examples.
Whether done individually or collectively, it
is the thought that counts. Personal as well as
public acts of remembering are the ideal. Public
displays of patriotism are essential if the notion of
remembering war dead is to be instilled in youth.
As America’s older war veterans fast disappear
from society’s landscape, there are fewer and
fewer standard-bearers left to carry the torch of
remembrance. Such traditions will live on only if
there is a vibrant movement to which that torch
can be passed.
Now, more than in recent years, the enduring
relevance of Memorial Day should be clearly
evident. With two wars under way, the public has
no excuse not to remember. This much is owed
to the more than 4,500 Americans who have died
thus far in Afghanistan and Iraq.
I would encourage the community to please join
Sacramento Mountains VFW Post 11999 at one of
two Memorial Day Services. In the Cloudcroft Area
a service will be held at 8:00 AM on Memorial Day,
Monday May 25th, at James Canyon Cemetery.
A second service will be held at the Timberon
Cemetery on the same date and time. The
Timberon service will mark the 25th consecutive
Memorial Day Service for that community. Please
take the time out of your busy holiday weekend to
join us for these important memorials.
Timberon Memorial Day Services
Monday May 25th will be the 25th Annual Memorial Day
Observance in Timberon. The VFW will be conducting the
service/observance at 8:00 am at the Timberon Cemetery.
The Timberon Baptist Chapel has offered to provide coffee
and doughnuts after the service.
Homes AND Land
$99,950.00
Timberon Golf Course Unit 6, Block 16, Lot 23A
This home was built in 1984, it is 1212 sq.ft.
with an attached garage (588 sq.ft.+/-). 3 beds,
1 3/4 bath, with fireplace, washer and dryer,
dishwasher. Home is fully furnished, located on
.996 ac. +/- in the Ponderosa Pines with a 10'x12'
deck area.
$ 141,00.00
Timberon Unit 8, Block 92, Lot 6/home, Lot 4,
Lot 5 and Lot 7
All Lots combined is 2.0 acres +/1985 site built home is 2055 sq. ft on 2. acres
+/- . Large Master bedroom with 3/4 bath and
walk-in closet. 2 guest beds and another 3/4
guest bath. Large kitchen with custom cabinets
and dining room area. Laundry room is off
kitchen. Large family room with air tight wood
heater, central heat and ceiling fans. Open deck
(786. sq. ft.+/-) that wraps around 1/2 of home.
A new metal roof was put on in 2005. Detached
588. sq. ft. +/- garage. This home is a must see!!!
Seller will look at reasonable offers.
In Flander's Field
By John McCrae
In Flanders Fields the poppies blow,
Between the crosses, row on row,
That mark our place; and in the sky,
The larks, still bravely singing, fly,
Scarce heard amid the guns below.
We are the dead.
Short days ago,
We lived, felt dawn, saw sunset glow,
Loved and were loved and now we lie,
In Flanders Fields.
Take up our quarrel with the foe
To you, from failing hands, we throw,
The torch, be yours to hold it high.
If ye break faith with us, who die,
We shall not sleep, though poppies
grow,
In Flanders Fields.
Sacramento Mountain Ranches Unit 4, Block 16,
Lot 6
$109,900.00
Studio home (one room living) with 1000 sq.ft.
and large 3/4 bath, kitchen, laundry room located
on 5.026 acres. Water, power and propane are
already there .Covered deck is 40’x6’ on south
side. Ideal for horse property! Good percentage
of land is flat and cleared so you can put up
corrals right away. Beautiful view.
ROBERTS REALTY
PO Box 1, Timberon NM 88350
575-987-2440
WWW.timberonnm.com
Yard Maintenance Wood Chipping Fire wood
Get Your Gas
and Diesel Here!
OPEN EVERY DAY
10-5
(575) 987-2357
PAGE 9
Josie’s Has NM LOTTERY TICKETS!
MOUNTAIN TIMES -MAY 2009 ISSUE
1-575-987-2523
a possibility of moisture through
FIRE SAFETY REMINDER AS
HUNTING SEASON APPROACHES the upcoming weekend. With this
“It’s been extremely dry over the
past four months, said James Villard,
Fire Management Officer, Fire Program
Manager. “Even though the Lincoln
National Forest recorded some
measurable rain or snow over the past
couple of weekends, many parts of the
forest received very little precipitation.
Please follow safe practices creating or
using fire.”
Warm temperatures, lack of snow,
dry winds, and abundant dry grass are
causing fire danger to increase rapidly
on the Lincoln National Forest. Little to
no moisture has occurred on the Lincoln
National Forest and with spring in place,
the chances for precipitation gradually
decrease.
As a reminder, turkey season begins
April 15, 2009. Patrols by forest personnel
have been in place and will continue as
the season progresses. Patrolling will be
done seven days a week with extended
hours to ensure recreationists, hunters
or campers practice safe fire etiquette.
Keep a bucket with water and hand
tools ready in case your fire should
attempt to spread. Ensure campfires
are completely extinguished before you
leave the area.
Keep vehicles on well-maintained
roads at all times. Fires can ignite as a
result of hot car exhaust systems coming
in contact with tall, dry fuels.
“ Th e we at h e r o u t l o o k p re d i c t s
chance of rain, they are also calling for
increased wind activity and chances for
dry lightning. The fine fuels (grasses)
would benefit from the rain showers
but the trees, logs and branches or
larger fuels need a significant rainfall
to reduce the fire danger. With the
fuel moisture this low, chances of fires
igniting are greatly increased,” said
Jacque Buchanan, Lincoln National
Forest Supervisor. “We are fortunate to
have additional fire crews, engines, fire
prevention personnel and air support
stationed throughout the Forest as a
precaution.”
Based on the current forecast,
the Forest is considering Stage 2 Fire
Restrictions beginning April 16, 2009.
Please stay abreast of wildfire danger
levels. Look for the famous Smokey Bear
fire danger rating signs along highways.
Call your local US Forest Service office
for more information to receive tips on
fire prevention.
Lincoln National Forest officials would
like everyone’s help to keep our forest
free from fires for the duration of this fire
season. “Know Before You Go.”
Additional fire information can be
obtained at http://www.fs.fed.us/r3/fire/
or call toll free 1-877-864-6985.
Or the Sacramento Ranger District
Office at (575) 682-2551, Monday
through Friday, 7:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.
Please review our website at: http://
www.fs.fed.us/r3/lincoln.
Grandma Peggy’s Recipe
BEEF AND MUSHROOM PIE
In 2Tb. of butter lightly brown rice and
vermicelli from one package of Rice-aroni. Add 1Lb. ground beef; finely crumble and continue browning. Stir in 3 cups
of hot water, 1 can of mushrooms, contents of beef flavor packet, 1tsp. salt,1/4 tsp. pepper.
Cover and simmer 15 minutes.
Cool slightly; stir in two slightly beaten eggs.
Fill a 9” pie shell with rice-a-roni mixture.
Garnish with 3 cooked slices of bacon.
Bake on a cookie sheet at 400 degrees 20-25 min. Serves 4-6.
(Answers are from 2nd grade school children)
How did God make mothers?
He used dirt like the rest of us.
What ingredients are mothers made of?
God makes mothers out of clouds and angel hair and
everything nice in the world and one dab of mean.
What did your mom need to know about dad before
she married him?
1. His last name.
2. She had to know his background. Like is he a crook? Does
he get drunk on beer?
3. Does he make at least $800 a year? Did he say NO to drugs
and yes to chores?
Why did your mom marry your dad?
1. My dad makes the best spaghetti in the world and mom
eats a lot.
2. She got too old to do anything else with him.
3. My grandma says that Mom didn’t have her
thinking cap on.
What would it take to make your mom
perfect?
1. On the inside she’s already perfect. Outside, I think
some kind of plastic surgery.
2. Diet..you know, her hair. I’d diet blue.
If you could change one thing about your
mom, what would it be?
1. She has a weird thing about me keeping my room
clean. I’d get rid of that.
Office (575) 987-2523
Cell: (575) 491-3113
Fax: (575) 987-2546
Happy Mother’s Day on May 10th.
WEED COUNTRY STORE
I would like a subscription to the
Mountain Times
3 Agua Chiquita
Weed, NM
(575) 687-3040
Covering Timberon and the Sacramento Mountains of New Mexico
__ $15.00 (12 issues, Bulk rate)
__ New Subscription
__$26.00 (24 issues, Bulk rate)
__ Gift __ Renewal
OPEN:
name: ____________________________________________________________________________________
Address: _________________________________________________________________________________
city: ____________________________________________ state: ______________ zip: __________________
Phone: _________________________________ Email: _____________________________________________
GAS
Send this form and your check to Mountain Times, PO Box 266, Timberon, NM 88350
REMEMBER TO SUPPORT YOUR LOCAL BUSINESSES.
THEY ARE VERY IMPORTANT TO THE COMMUNITY!
PAGE 10
MOUNTAIN TIMES - MAY 2009 ISSUE
7:30-5:00 Monday-Saturday
10:00-4:00 Sunday
GIF
GROCERIES
TOBACCO
COLLECTIBLES
TS
SUNDAY LUNCH
11:00-3:00
1-575-987-2523
What’s Happening on the Sacramento Range District
NM State Forestry
FOREST NEWS
OPEN HOUSE! The Sacramento Ranger Station will have
their open house celebration on Friday, May 15th from
10:00 am to 2:00 p.m. Everyone is welcome to come
visit with employees, tour the building, and enjoy light
refreshments. Come say hi to Smokey Bear.
OFFICE HOURS AND NEW LOCATION! The Sacramento
Ranger District Office is located on Highway 130, 1 mile
south of Highway 82 from the Village of Cloudcroft in our
new facility at 4 Lost Lodge Road. The office is open
Monday - Friday from 7:30 am to 4:30 p.m. and closed
Saturday and Sunday.
TOLL FREE FIRE DISPATCH Call 1-877-695-1663, a
24 hour toll free phone number, to report possible
wildfires. We encourage all readers to first contact
the County Sheriff’s Office at (575) 437-2210 and the
Ranger District at (575) 682-2551 to report any visible
smoke. Size up what you see and report the location as
accurately as you can. Residents are required to notify
the county sheriff if they are going to burn slash on
their private lands.
CHECK OUT OUR NEW BOOKSTORE We have BLM
and USGS topographic maps on hand. Many excellent
books on history, wildlife, birds and other critters are
available. The very best hiking book on trails in the
Lincoln National Forest is John W. Stockerts’“Trail Guide”
available for $19.00. Forest Service plasticized paper
maps are available for $10.00.
FOREST WIDE CAMPING INFORMATION The campgrounds
and picnic sites at James Canyon, Upper Karr, and Bluff Springs are open
year round. Our campgrounds are operated by the concessionaire
Recreation Resource Management, http://www.camprrm.com and they
are available on a first come, first served basis. The Group Campgrounds
are available by reservation at http://www.recreation.gov
We would like forest guests to be aware that there are hundreds of
traditional, pleasant, and remote throw-down areas for tent and small
RV camping throughout the Sacramento Ranger District. Please call our
district office at (575) 682-2551 for further information.
HIKING/TRAILS Some trails on the Sacramento Ranger District have
received increase use and are marked. Motorized trails seem to be
By Jerry Lutz
US Forest Department
especially impacted by the recent rains and have deteriorated due to
erosion and use in wet/muddy conditions. Please help us by using
the trails responsibly and reporting any damaged trails to the
Sacramento Ranger District at (575) 682-2551.
FIRE SEASON AND RESTRICTIONS “Know Before
You Go”. Lincoln National Forest officials would
like everyone’s help to keep our forest free from
fires for the duration of this fire season. Please
stay abreast of wildfire danger levels. Look for
the famous Smokey Bear fire danger rating signs
along our highways. Contact the Sacramento
Ranger District office (575) 682-2551, to find out
the status of fire restrictions and what they may
mean to you. Seasonal drying, windy conditions
and warmer temperatures are common at this time
of year. Ensure campfires, when permitted, are
attended to at all times, and that they are dead
out prior to walking away from them, don't
throw cigarettes or matches out of a vehicle and
park only in areas clear of cured grass and other
herbaceous vegetation.
REDUCE THE RISK OF WILDFIRE IN YOUR
COMMUNITY Visit the Firewise Communities website
at www.firewise.org to see what can be done in your
community to protect people, property, and natural
resources from the risk of wildfire before a fire starts.
We also have literature here at the district office, please
come by and pick one up.
SLASH PIT SCHEDULE Please call the district office (575) 682-2551, for
information on dates when the slash pit will be open. There may be no
plans to open in May because it is near capacity and needs to be burned.
The slash pit is located on Highway 244 near the junction of Highway 82.
This is available for individual home and property owners to dispose of
woody debris resulting from yard work and the creation and maintenance
of defensible space around homes and structures.
BACK COUNTRY ETHICS In the back country forest lands you are on
your own, be prepared. We are ruled by the authority of nature in the
backwoods. Our environment and conditions change rapidly and we
should adjust our safety awareness to reduce uncertainty and risk. Be
willing and able to take care of yourself and the back country you
delight in. Pack out what you pack in and leave the public lands
better than you found them.
FUELWOOD AREAS AND PERMITS Fenimore, Long Ridge and
Benson are open for personal fuelwood gathering. Fenimore
fuelwood area is off Forest Service road 64D (Alamo Peak Road) to
Forest Service Road 639, 4 cords of mixed conifer, oak, or aspen for
$20.00. Long Ridge fuelwood area, is 14 miles south of High Rolls
on West Side Road, (Forest Service Road. 90), two cords of juniper
and piñon for $20.00. Benson fuelwood area is along Forest Service
Rd. 223 (Benson Ridge Rd.), four cords of mixed conifer for $20.00.
The Benson Area has been extended to include two temporary
roads that access more wood. This will be an excellent area as long
as the road is dry. Don’t wait until it rains to take advantage of this
opportunity. Fuelwood permits are required before gathering and
are available at the Sacramento Ranger District Office in Cloudcroft
or in the Supervisor's Office in Alamogordo.
OFF HIGHWAY VEHICLES (OHV’s and ATV’s) The Sacramento
district has 235 miles of trails and 2000 miles of forest roads, of
which 80 percent are considered suitable for ATV’s and motorcycles
less than 50” in width. New Mexico state motor vehicle laws apply
on Forest Service roads, vehicles that are registered and operated
by a licensed driver are permitted. ATV users are to keep in mind
that trails and roads are shared with other users, hikers, horses,
backpackers, children, and adults. The Forest Service has a list of
trails that will suit your needs. If you are interested in ATV/OHV
use on our motorized trails, check out this website on regulations
for riding in New Mexico: http://www.newmexico.org/ohv/index.
php
JOIN US IN THE FOREST SERVICE All position openings are listed
on-line at (www.usajobs.opm.gov). Your office could be in the
great outdoors.
PAGE 11
MOUNTAIN TIMES - MAY 2009 ISSUE
1-575-987-2523
How Does the Stimulus Plan Affect You? It’s Good to Get Some Advice Now
The biggest benefit from the $787.2 billion
federal stimulus package will hopefully be
a noticeable improvement in the nation’s
economy. But on an individual level, it’s wise
to check if you might be eligible for benefits
in health care, education, various tax credits
and housing.
A visit with a tax expert or a financial adviser
such as a CERTIFIED FINANCIAL PLANNER™
professional can help you determine the best
ways to use the following provisions that may
affect you. It’s also a good idea to get a financial checkup in an uncertain
economy for the following reasons:
Educational provisions:
College student aid: The package awards $15.6 billion to increase
maximum individual student Pell grants by $500.
American Opportunity Tax Credit: This credit temporarily provides
taxpayers with a new tax credit of up to $2,500 of the cost of tuition and
related expenses, though it phases out for taxpayers with adjusted gross
income in excess of $80,000 ($160,000 for married couples filing jointly).
Forty percent of the available credit is refundable.
529 Plans: The scope of allowable education expenses expands to
include computers and computer technology.
Tax credit provisions:
One more cap for the Alternative Minimum Tax (AMT): Lawmakers put
one more patch on the AMT to protect a wider number of people from
• As much as it might hurt to look at the performance of your current getting hit. This latest break for potential AMT targets increases the
retirement accounts and other investments, the economy will recover. exemption amounts to $46,700 ($70,950 for married couples). The bill
When an upturn comes, it’s wise to position your holdings to take full would also exclude interest on all private activity bonds issued in 2009
advantage of the recovery.
and 2010 from the AMT.
• Your future plans with regard to spending for your home, your family “Making Work Pay” Tax Credits: This is the refundable tax credit of up to
and your education come into sharp focus under the stimulus plan, and $400 for individuals and $800 for families for 2009 and 2010 that would
making these provisions work for you in the short-term should be part phase out for taxpayers with adjusted gross income in excess of $75,000
of a long-term plan.
($150,000 for married couples). This isn’t a lump sum payment, but instead
• If you fear your job might be in danger in the coming months or you is reflected in reduced payroll taxes.
might be facing pay or benefit cuts, it’s good to talk through your personal
Car Buyers Tax Credit: This allows a deduction for state and local sales
finances before your employer makes a move. The best time to prepare and excise taxes paid on the purchase of a new vehicle through 2009.
for a job loss is while you’re still making a salary. Not only is it a good This deduction is phased out for taxpayers with adjusted gross income
opportunity to build an emergency fund, but it’s generally easier to look in excess of $125,000 ($250,000 in the case of a joint return).
for new opportunities while you still have your current one.
Expanded Child Credit: This increases the eligibility for the refundable
Here’s a quick summary of the stimulus plan provisions that could affect child tax credit in 2009 and 2010 by reducing the minimum income for
your finances.
eligibility to $3,000.
Earned Income Tax Credit: This provision will create a temporary tax
credit increase for working families with three or more children.
Housing provisions:
Refundable First-Time Homebuyer Credit: First-time buyers can
claim a credit worth $8,000 - or 10 percent of the home's value,
whichever is less - on their 2008 or 2009 taxes. The added bonus
is that the credit is refundable, which means that filers will see a
refund of the full $8,000 even if their total tax bill was less than that
amount.
Unemployment and healthcare-related benefits:
Extension of Unemployment Benefits: The package provides 33
weeks of extended benefits through Dec. 31, 2009.
Unemployment Compensation: The first $2,400 a person receives
in unemployment compensation benefits in 2009 won’t be taxed.
Short-Term COBRA Subsidy for Involuntarily Terminated Workers:
This provides a 65 percent subsidy for COBRA premiums for up to
9 months, which will put a dent in the considerable cost of COBRA
health benefits for the unemployed.
This column is produced by the Financial Planning Association,
the membership organization for the financial planning community,
and is provided by Charles Wagner, a local member of FPA.
ASPEN CO. Construction
George Corder
PO Box 143 Timberon, NM 88350
phone 575-987-2372
NM LIC # 30323
JAMES ACKERMANN
TREE TRIMMING
1-877-426-0385
1-575-987-2551
Scrub-Oak Cut - Lot Thinning - Removal Dead - Down - Hazard - Firewood
FREE ESTIMATES
SATISFACTION GUARANTEED
IN GOD WE TRUST
PAGE 12
MOUNTAIN TIMES - MAY 2009 ISSUE 1-575-987-2523
If You’re Lucky Enough to Live in the Mountains, You’re Lucky Enough!
Dates to Remember
May 5: Sac/Weed VFD meeting, 7 p.m.
May 10: Mother’s Day. She deserves a break
today!
May 19: Bookmobile, 1p.m., Weed; 3 p.m.,
Piñon
May 25: Memorial Day observed; Post Office
closed
May 26: Weed Community Association meeting,
6 p.m., old school building. Come see what you
can do to help with the 14th Annual Bluegrass
Festival.
May 30: Memorial Day
Upcoming Events in the Area
May 1: Kenny Rogers, Inn of the Mountain
Gods
May 8-9: Old Timers Reunion, Sacramento
Mountains
Historical Society, Cloudcroft, 575-682-2932
May 9: High Roll's Chili Cook Off
May 9: John Jorgenson Quintet,7:30 p.m.,
Flick inger Center for Per forming Ar ts,
Alamogordo, 575-437- 2202. Tickets: $10, $18,
and $25.
May 15: Billy the Kid-the Ballet, 7:30 p.m.,
Flick inger Center for Per forming Ar ts,
Alamogordo, $10.
May 22-24: Melodrama: Cloudcroft Light Opera
Co. Cheer for the hero and boo the villain, fun for
the whole family. No admission Fee. 682-2733.
May 23-24: Mayfair Juried Art Show, Zenith Park,
Cloudcroft, free admission. Info: 575-682-2733
1-ounce letters after the price change, without
the need for additional postage. Forever Stamps
are widely available through Post Offices,
commercial retail outlets such as grocery stores,
and online at www.USPS.com.
Prices for mailing services will continue to
adjust each May. Prices for most shipping
services, including Express Mail and Priority Mail,
were adjusted in January and will not change
in May.
Pinon News - Margaret Merritt
Buenos Dias to all of you! A wonderful Spring
day - no wind of consequence yet, and trees still
blooming.
Determined to show appreciation for such
water as they get in a land so far very short on
Spring showers.
Some short wet windshield washers and a
couple of visible deposits of snow but nothing
shocking or threatening in nature.
Piñon is quite peaceful during the middle of
the day until the mail comes in and the working
elsewhere crowd starts homeward. Coming in
from any direction is a challenge early and late.
The deer population (which outnumbers the
human population) will be on the highway,
in the highway, and asserting their rights.
Arguments with deer R.O.W. are usually a victory
for the deer.
At Club this week we discussed the usual
Club business. Properly (after this day’s way)
we interrupted the regular details with an
announced request at one or more of the recent
funerals held at the Club House, “Why do we
have to only come back to Piñon for funerals?
Maybe a Piñon reunion?” Sounded like a good
idea to us, so we began hashing out the idea.
Result so far: we will be working up a list of
interested people and families, hopefully with
addresses and names. Virtual addresses, P.O.
Boxes, e-mail, MYFACE, all are welcome.
Our August meeting will be a good beginning,
we hope. August 13, 1 p.m., Piñon Club House.
Come if you can. If you can’t come, phone, write,
e-mail to let us know if you are interested. OK?
We are willing to adjust, plan, and make this a
regular get-together. NOT just at funerals!
w
e
N
,
d
e
e
W
Keeping You Posted - A Reminder
On May 11, the price for a 1-ounce First-Class
Mail stamp will increase from 42¢ to 44¢. Prices
for other mailing services — standard mail,
periodicals, package services (including parcel
post), and extra services — will also change.
The average increase by class of mail is at or
below the rate of inflation as measured by the
Consumer Price Index.
Customers can use their Forever Stamps
—regardless of when purchased — to mail
Below are articles taken out of “The Hitchin’ Post” from Weed, New
Mexico. You can find the full version on the internet at www.mountaintimes.net, under Weed. You can also drive to Weed and grab a couple of
copies. Editor - Patsy Ward.
Weed
That is per special request by people who
travel far to pay the last respects to beloved
ones who enjoyed the life of Piñon at some time
and choose to be laid to rest in our peaceful,
beautiful, well-cared-for cemetery. As of last
week, there are stark images of grave markers
and headstones which survived a grass fire
started on Hwy 24 just north of Piñon and
traveling east fast. Half of the cemetery was
not touched by fire. The other (north) half will
be a fresh green WHEN the rains come, but just
now is a stark black/white of burned grass and
standing headstones. Shocking sight.
Great news today in the Hudspeth County/Dell
Valley Herald. A younger person of enthusiasm
is on board to help the paper keep up the good
work there.
Welcome, Drew Stewart! A squib brought out
questions on this person’s part. Seems May
Carson is in progress to reopen the Cornudas
Café on Hwy 62/180. Anyone who ever traveled
that country by any mode (foot back, horseback,
wagon and team, or motorized vehicle) knows
it to be a long, lonely stretch between watering
holes and eating places. Cornudas Cafe’s
reopening is welcome!
Adios ‘til another day.
Margaret
o
c
i
x
e
M
One of Maxine’s Best!
Minorities
We need to show more sympathy for these
people.
* They travel miles in the heat.
* They risk their lives crossing a border.
* They don’t get paid enough wages.
* They do jobs that others won’t do or are afraid
to do.
* They live in crowded conditions among a
people who speak a different language.
* They rarely see their families, and they face
adversity all day ~ every day.
I’m not talking about illegal Mexicans
~ I’m talking about our troops!
Doesn’t it seem strange that many Democrats
and Republicans are willing to lavish all kinds of
social benefits on illegals, but don’t support
our troops, and are even threatening to
defund them?
THE WEED CAFE
NEW:
Charbroiled Hamburgers
Excellent
Green Chile Cheeseburgers
Always Daily Specials
to tantalize your taste buds.
Home-Made Desserts
(575) 687-3611
Closed Sunday
Monday-Thursday 8-3
Fri & Sat 8-7
PAGE 13
Call (575) 556-8514 or toll-free 1-800-230-1840
MOUNTAIN TIMES - MAY 2009 ISSUE
1-575-987-2523
Continued from front page:
Human Hummingbird feeder
Abigail decided one morning while drinking her coffee and watching
out her window that she would like to "touch" one the hummingbirds
that swarm her feeder each day. With patience and determination she
eventually accomplished her goal. It took her several days of standing
beside her feeder so they could get used to her presence. Then she put
her hands around the feeder. In order for the hummingbirds to drink,
they had to land on her fingers. Her next step was remove the feeder
and place a small red cap on an old milk can in the same area. They soon
found the small replacement and began feeding. She went outside filled
the cap with sugar water and sat very still. Within ten minutes they were
resting in her hands.
It was sheer delight! Abigail was able to move her hands around a bit
with the birds on her fingers. "They are light as a feather..and simply
beautiful!"
For more information you can check out her website at: www.abigailsings. Close-up of Abigail feeding the hummingbirds taken by Sam Alfano.
com/hummingbirds
Broad-tailed
Hummingbird
Length: 4 inches (10 cm)
Identification: Medium in size for
a hummingbird, the broad-tailed
hummingbird has a long, bright
green body and a broad, mostly
dark tail. With a rose-red gorget
(throat), a green crown, and white
underparts, the male has a metallic
green body, otherwise. Females
have also the green crown, but
their chin and throat are white with
various amounts of dark streaking.
The female tail feathers are dark,
but have the signature female white
tips on the outer tail feathers.
Found throughout western
America down to southern
Mexico and into the highlands of
Guatemala, a mountain meadow
is a common setting for the broadtailed hummingbird.
Metabolic Extremes
The hummingbird is one of only a
few bird species that can become
“torpid,” experiencing an overnight
metabolic change that consists
of a drop in body temperature—
sometimes 20° to 30° Fahrenheit—
and a slowing of the heart rate. The
coma-like state that results allows
for a drastic reduction in their
energy consumption while they
rest. This helps to counterbalance
the extreme amounts of energy
hummingbirds expend while
awake, an expenditure that requires
them to eat half their body weight
or more in insects and nectar each
day.
Hummingbirds are capable of
flying at speeds of up to 30 miles
per hour, and they are the only
species capable of true hovering
and backward flight. Unlike other
birds, hummingbirds must depend
completely on their wings for
movement, as most appear unable
to walk or hop. If hummingbird wings
were compared to their human
counterparts, the wings would
be virtually all “hand.” This allows
for a broader range of movement
and control. The muscles that
move the wings—which account
for about a quarter of the bird’s
weight—enable them to hover,
move sideways, fly backward, and
pivot around an axis point. They
can even fly upside down for very
brief periods. Hummingbirds never
fly in flocks and are known to be
territorial, giving chase to every
other bird who approaches their
flowers or feeders.
Each species has a unique
cour tship behavior that may
vary by location and incorporate
different songs or flight patterns.
After this flying courtship, only
the females settle down to raise
a family. Females associate with
males only long enough to fertilize
the eggs, and males generally have
no role in constructing the nest or
rearing the young. Nests are about
two inches in diameter and are
composed of seed, down, lichens,
small feathers, green moss, grass,
and leaf fragments. These materials
are bound together and attached
to a twig or branch with spider
webs. The nest may be perched
high or low, in a tree or a shrub,
and will invariably contain two tiny
white eggs. The incubation period
generally last 15 to 19 days. When
the nestlings hatch, the mother
regurgitates food to feed them.
They fledge at about 22 days.
Flowers that have evolved with
hummingbirds and depend on
the birds for pollination are often
trumpet-shaped or tubular and
lack a landing platform that would
attract other pollinators such as bees
or insects. The hummingbird’s bill
and tongue are specially adapted
(575) 987-2553
Timberon, New Mexico
How to Attract Hummingbirds
Plant tubular flowers in the
hummingbird’s favorite colors, red
or orange.
Mix plant heights and flowering
times, clumping individual plant
species together and placing taller
plants toward the back.
Use native plants whenever
possible.
Plant flowers near a tree that can
offer protection from weather and
predators.
Do not use pesticides or
herbicides.
Add a birdbath with a mister or a
dripper.
While hummingbirds are not social
with each other, their natural
boldness and curiosity can give
the impression that they may be
social with humans. They are so
swift on the wing that perhaps they
can afford to be bold. With some
patience—maybe while holding a
red tubular flower—you might be
lucky enough to experience the
invisible whir of wings on your face
as this bold little fairy comes in for
a closer look.
When was the last time you had
your chimney cleaned?
If you don’t know,
now is the time!
Riverside Condos
PAGE 14
to suck up the nectar from these
blooms, which comprises most of
their diet. Hummingbirds feed on
small insects as well, and can catch
them on the wing. When you see
“hummers” hovering near the bark
of a tree or the wall of a house, they
could be hunting tiny insects and
spiders or collecting spider webs
for a nest.
MOUNTAIN TIMES - MAY 2009 ISSUE
Call for an
inspection:
(575) 987-2523
1-575-987-2523
Holloman ‘HUSH HOUSE’ isn’t quiet place
HOLLOMAN AIR FORCE BASE, N.M. – Some call it a “hush house,”
others a “test cell.” By whatever name people call it, the Jet Engine
Test Facility is anything but quiet.
Inside the sound absorbing walls of the “hush houses,” the F119PW-100 engine, that powers the F-22A Raptor, is unleashed. Every
engine that is produced by the Jet Engine Intermediate Maintenance
Shop is tested at all power settings including afterburner prior to
installation in the F-22.
The facility also has the ability to test and troubleshoot the installed
engines, ensuring the engines spend the maximum amount of time
in the aircraft.
“The priority of the Jet Engine Propulsion Flight is to maintain engine
sustainability and reliability, and a great deal of this begins and ends
at the test facility,” said Master Sgt. John Madison, 49 Maintenance
Squadron propulsion flight chief.
With this level of responsibility, the maintainers selected to work at
the “hush house” are at the pinnacle of their respective skill level.
“The personnel at the test facility have proven over time to be on
top of their game. I hand select each person based on previous work
performance” said Sergeant Madison.
One example of the skilled personnel working in the “hush house”
is Senior Airman Carlos Fernandez.
“I feel a great deal of accomplishment and
reward being entrusted with the responsibilities
that come with working at the hush house,” said
Airman Fernandez. “Every time I hear a sonic
boom it puts a smile on my face.”
Quality of work is another revered aspect of the
Propulsion Flight, according to Sergeant Madison.
The pilots that fly the F-22A can rest assured they
are not only being provided the best jet engine in
the Air Force inventory, but they are maintained
by the best trained and most skilled personnel
the 49th Fighter Wing has to offer.
A Pratt & Whitney F119-PW-100 turbofan engine undergoes a routine
performance test at the Holloman AFB Jet Engine Test Facility 17
March. The test facility is commonly referred to as the "hush House"
because it allows engines to be run at full afterburner, as shown here,
with minimal noise being allowed outside the facility.
(U.S. Air Force Photo/TSgt Chris Flahive)
(575) 987-2365
By Tech Sgt. William C. Hancock 49th Aircraft
Maintenance Squadron
ASPEN CO. Construction
George Corder
PO Box 143 Timberon, NM 88350
phone 575-987-2372
NM LIC # 30323
(575) 437-4699 1-888-921-4699
PAGE 15
MOUNTAIN TIMES - MAY 2009 ISSUE
1-575-987-2523
THE MOUNTAIN Trading Post
Real estate SECTION
FOR SALE:
MEMBER RUIDOSO AND OTERO BOARD OF REALTORS
7 Premium Golf Course Lots
***OWNER FINANCE NO QUALIFYING***
7 Premium Golf Course Lots located on Paradise Valley Rd in Timberon. All
located on the greens and fairways. In the process of being thinned under
the Government Program.
$25,900 each. Low Down Payment. Water and electricity nearby.
Call for details: (575) 987-2563
For Sale By Owner:
GOLF COURSE PREMIER LOT
Unique 1 acre (2 adjacent lots) on 8th
green on Eldorado Drive, Timberon. Level,
thinned, and cleared lots with gorgeous
mountain views to the north and south.
Beautiful ponderosa and junipers. Driveway
is in. Water meter, 110V and 50 amp 220V
electricity on lot, ready for your RV, vacation
cabin, or retirement house. Owner financing
possible with 8K down. $28,000 for both
lots.
Call: 575 336-7644 or 575 921-5884
(English)
915 443-1922 (Espanol & Deutsch)
MOUNTAIN CABIN
On 1.03 Acres
3 Bedrooms, 1 3/4 Bath- 2 Levels
Recent Updates
Call for Info or Showing
Good Selection-Including Golf Course
SEE ALL OUR CLOUDCROFT AND TIMBERON AREA LISTINGS
AT: www.diamondjrealestate.com
2 Bed, 1 Bath, with extra room. New Roof, &
New Deck. Awesome view! .5 acre nestled in
the beautiful Sacramento Mountains. Owner
eager to sell. Asking price of $50,000.
Greg Adams, Caryn Pridemore Broker/Realtor
Skip Pridemore Broker/Realtor
LOTS OF GREAT LOTS FOR SALE
STARTING AS LOW AS $2500.00
JACK RABBIT FLATS
VOLUNTEER FIRE DEPARTMENT’S
ANNUAL COMMUNITY SALE
Catch Rain!! Black, algae resistant, from 100 to 10,000
gallons, reasonable prices, free delivery. Please give
us a chance to serve you!!
MasterCard/Visa
1-800-603-8272 or (575) 682-2308.
House Sitting
Welding
FOR SALE OR TRADE:
Large or small
animals.
Your place or mine
Registered Longhorn
cattle. Young heifers/
bulls/steers.
575-434-4772
575-434-4772
USE IT OR LOSE IT!
Sacramento Mountain
Senior Services, Inc.
BY DAY, WEEK, OR
MONTH
Sunday Morning Bible Study at
9:45am
Timberon Baptist Chapel
MAY 2009
May 3th: “Wars and rumors of wars” Daniel 11
May 10th: Mother’s Day “Mother’s who overcame” Matt 1:5
May 17th: Four people in prophecy (Daniel 12 1-4)
May 24th: “The end of age” (Daniel 12 5-13)
May 31st: Domineering wives, sissy husbands, and bratty kids
Gen. 3 1-19
8-3
288 Pecos Rd in Tularosa
Spaces for tables $15.00 donation
(tax deductible)
is now being held
at the Chapel on
Wednesdays
at 10 AM.
TIMBERON
baptist CHAPEL
(575) 987-2312 or
(575) 921-8972
Saturday May 23, 2009
The Ladies Bible
Study
FOR THE SELECT
IN RENTALS
Contact
Adelina Ayers at
Timberon bus to Alamogordo
Tuesdays 8:30 a.m.
T.W.S.D. Parking Lot
For more information
Please call: (575) 682-3022
BOBBY and JALENE JONES, Co-Qualifying Brokers
Cloudcroft
DRINKING
WATER Storage Tanks
Wanted: 29 Serious People to Work
From Home using a computer.
Up to$1,500-$5,000 PT/FT
www.niceincome123.com
PAGE 16
PHONE: 575-682-1317 FAX: 575-682-1318TOLL FREE: 1-866-344-6190
To schedule an appointment call:
661-978-7549.
General Help Wanted:
575 434-4772
DIAMOND J REAL ESTATE,
PO BOX 1374, CLOUDCROFT, NM 88317
FOOD VENDORS AND MORE!
Call Amber Hunt 575 430-2334
“100 FANTASTIC FACTS ABOUT NEW MEXICO”, a history
and travel guide book to The Land of Enchantment
by THE CLOUDCROFT ONLINE NEWSLETTER’s Don
Vanlandingham, is now available. To order your copy,
send $20 ($5 of which is for shipping and handling)
to:
Sunday Morning
Worship at 11:00am
Don Vanlandingham
Box 98564
Lubbock, Texas 79499
HOUSE NUMBERS
I just spoke to Brenda Garcia with Otero County and she told me that
any property owner in Timberon that is missing or has a damaged
house number could contact her and she will get them a new one.
Could you emphasize how important these numbers are in case of fire
or ems emergency?
Her contact information is 575-439-2655. Everyone should have
these numbers posted out by the road where emergency personnel
can see them.
Shantel Keune, Timberon E.M.S.
MOUNTAIN TIMES - MAY 2009 ISSUE
1-575-987-2523