El Defensor Cheiftain, June 6, 2012

Fire it Up!

Credit Due

Back-to-Back

Cooking out on a grill isn’t just for hamburgers anymore

Socorro electric, customers working to revise renewable energy credit program

Dan Koesters of Las Cruces wins Senior Pro division at Socorro Open

INSIDE

NEWS • PAGE 3

SPORTS • PAGE 10

El Defensor Chieftain

© 2012, El Defensor Chieftain

Vol. 146 • No. 45

NEWS l ine

Look online for election results Tuesday was Primary Election Day in Socorro County and across the nation. Democrats and Republicans made their choices who to send on to the general election in November. For results of local party elections, visit El Defensor Chieftain’s website at www.dchieftain.com.

Hospital water outage

SOCORRO, NEW MEXICO • MIDWEEK EDITION • JUNE 6, 2012

School board trims budget Bosquecito Board submits proposed budget at deficit to PED

By Griffin Swartzell El Defensor Chieftain Intern

gswartzell@dchieftain.com

Socorro The Socorro Consolidated Schools Board of Education has reduced its operating budget for the 2012-13 school year by over $550,000, just in time to submit it to the New Mexico Public Education Department.

During its meeting on Monday, June 4, the budget committee presented a

budget with a deficit of $514,000 — less than half of the previously proposed $1.171 million deficit. Over the course of the meeting, the board agreed to add around $130,000 to the budget before approving a budget with a deficit of around $650,000 to be presented to the PED, with calculations on exactly how much the deficit would increase after these measures to be finished before the budget was due on Tuesday, June 5.

Previously, the board had been hesitant to cut personnel costs, which made up 89-90 percent of their operating budget, according to Interim Superintendant Vannetta Perry.

“When you’re trying to cut $1.171

million, you’re going to have to address personnel,” she said.

Suggestions had been made (although no one was named at the meeting) that the buildings at the central office, San Antonio Elementary School and Sarracino Middle School be shut down. The 5 percent of the budget that goes to operating buildings is fixed, and Perry said this move “saves a very small amount unless we cut staff.”

Cuts Made

The budget committee was able to make several cuts, though. Duplicate n See Budget, Page 5

Socorro General Hospital will be replacing main water supply lines to the hospital on Friday, June 8, creating a water outage at the facility from approximately 10 a.m. to 8 p.m. The Emergency Room and inpatient and outpatient services will still be available during the water outage with limited availability of restroom facilities and drinking water supplies. For more information, contact SGH at 835-1140.

Hunter education safety class The New Mexico Department of Game and Fish will be holding a hunter education and safety training course at Midway Elementary School in Lemitar on Saturday, June 9, and Sunday, June 10, from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. Nobody under the age of 18 can apply for a firearms hunting license without having taken this course. To register, go to www.wildlife.state.nm.us/ and click on “education.” For more information, contact Keith at 575518-8577.

Chamber hosts social evening The Chamber of Commerce will be hosting a 15 minute presentation from N.M. Workforce Solutions on the Workforce Investment Act at the Chamber office, 101 Plaza St., at 5 p.m. on Thursday, June 14, to be followed at 5:30 p.m. by a social and refreshments. Current Chamber members and anyone thinking about joining are invited. Staff and board members will be present. For more information, email Chamber@ socorro-nm.com.

Keep reading this summer The Socorro Public Library started its summer reading program on Tuesday, June 5. Come in any time and sign your child up for a summer full of reading.

Librarians are available to read to your child as well. For more information, call your public library at 575-835-1114.

FIRE DANGER

Sky Chadde/El Defensor Chieftain

Viejitos Car Club members from Oklahoma showed off their classic automobiles on the Socorro plaza on Sunday, June 3, 2012. Oklahoma was just one of several Southwest states represented at the car show.

Viejitos were in the house Locals displayed their labors of love on the plaza too

By Sky Chadde El Defensor Chieftain Intern

schadde@dchieftain.com

Socorro Cars — all kinds of cars — were parked at Socorro’s historic Plaza on Sunday. There was a sun-yellow Camaro, a cherry-red Camaro with white racing stripes, a pastelred Mustang, a lipstick-red Mustang, a ruby-red Corvette Stingray, a red Bel-Air with a white top, a deep-red Chevrolet Deluxe, a jet-black Chevrolet Super Deluxe, a night-black Impala, a powder blue Cadillac with metal trim, a white Monte Carlo with black paint on the hood, an ocean-green Buick 8, a lime-green Chevrolet Deluxe, a mint ice cream green Bel-Air, a wood-paneled Fleetline and a gold with black vinyl GTO. The Viejitos Car Club, an organization that hosts car shows around the country, brought numerous classic vehicles, such as the ones described above, and their owners from California, Colorado, Arizona, Texas, Oklahoma and even Mexico to Socorro on Sunday for the fourth time in as many years. The Viejitos Car Club in Albuquerque represented New Mexico at the event.

El Defensor Chieftain Reporter

SUBSCRIBE TO EL DEFENSOR CHIEFTAIN CALL 575-835-0520 www.dchieftain.com

Rebecca Apodaca/El Defensor Chieftain

Viejitos Car Club proudly represented their classic cars.

For a few locals, it was an opportunity to display the labors of their love.

Manuel Chavez, a mechanic at Leseberg’s Auto on U.S. 60, who has lived in Socorro his entire life, got into rebuilding cars because his job asked him to. He speaks affectionately about the two cars he brought to the Plaza.

“This is a regular Chevrolet ’57 T-post car,” Chavez says, pointing to the red roadster with two white racing stripes running from the hood to the trunk. “I’ve had this one for six years. I’ve been rebuilding it. I started from scratch, all the way from the bottom.”

Veguita family left with nothing after propane blast destroys home

By Lindsey Padilla

WEATHER

50 cents

lpadilla@dchieftain.com

Veguita A propane explosion destroyed a home in Veguita last Friday, leaving a family of four without a home.

The family, consisting of parents Humberto TarinGarcia and Imelda Lujan, and their two children, ages 5 and 11, and a 16-year-old also living in the home were not hurt.

The explosion occurred about 1:40 p.m. on Friday.

June 1 Veguita Volunteer Fire Chief Tony Ortega said the cause is still under investiga-

tion. According to Ortega, the owner of the house, TarinGarcia, filled his propane tank at the Old Mill in Los Chavez.

The tank apparently was filled two pounds over the level it was supposed to be and overflowed onto the water heater, which ignited and sparked the explosion.

“Someone down the line made a mistake,” Ortega said.

“We’re having investigators look at the tank to see if it was filled up illegally.”

According to Socorro County Sheriff Deputy Ed Sweeney, the family was in the mobile home and heard the n See Propane, Page 5

n See Viejitos, Page 8

Road to be rebuilt Funding secured to improve road often subject to flooding

By T.S. Last El Defensor Chieftain

tslast@dchieftain.com

Socorro Socorro County Manager Delilah Walsh called it a Hail Mary pass that went for a touchdown.

Last November, Socorro County applied for a grant/loan for flood prevention and resolution with the state’s Water Trust Board to rebuild Bosquecito Road off U.S. 380. At the time, Walsh said getting the money through a long and arduous process that required the completion of a 150-page application was a long shot.

But last month, the Water Trust Board awarded the county $1,930,236.39 for the project, which will relieve flooding that occurs in the area when heavy rain strikes the eastern end of the county.

“I was so excited when I heard, I almost fell over,” said Walsh, who didn’t even attend the meeting announcing the award. “I didn’t want to drive all the way up to Santa Fe to find out we didn’t get it.”

Whenever torrential rains fall in the hills east of Bosquecito, arroyos quickly fill up and water rushes west toward the Rio Grande. If enough rain falls, it’ll take out the road, strand residents of the small community and damage their property.

Walsh said that problem could soon be solved, thanks to the unexpected funding.

“The reason it’s so important is that’s the only access road for a lot of people, school buses and emergency vehicles,” she said. “If anything happens to that road, people can’t go to work and kids can’t go to school.”

The county is required to pay a 40 percent match. At zero percent interest over 20 years, the county would end up paying about $772,094.

The county could also use in-kind contributions, such as labor and equipment, which amounts to $100,000 and was included in the application.

The project is considered shovel-ready, which made it easier for the funding to be approved. The Water Trust Board distributes funding approved by the Legislative for projects that fall into one of five categories: water conservation or reuse, flood prevention, Endangered Species Act, water storage, conveyance and delivery infrastructure improvements and watershed restoration and management.

“We’re going to install three low water crossings and elevate the road around the crossings to control the flow,” Walsh said. “The road will be rebuilt so the road won’t turn into a channel and flow into people’s yards.”

Phase I of the project is construction of the low-water crossings. The second phase is elevating and chip sealing a one-mile stretch of road encompassing the crossings. The third and final phase involves elevating and chip-sealing the remaining four-mile stretch of the road.

The entire project could take less than a year to complete, barring any delays.

NETWORK MARKETING

T.S. Last/El Defensor Chieftain

The Socorro Farmers Market has officially moved to the Plaza for the summer. For locally grown products, handmade merchandise and to mingle with friends, visit the market from 5 to 7 p.m. on Tuesdays and 8 a.m. to noon on Saturdays.

El Defensor Chieftain

2 • JUNE 6, 2012

CALENDAR OF EVENTS UPCOMING SPECIAL EVENTS

MEETINGS

Socorro Public Library presents “The Funny Dummy Show” on Thursday, June 7 at 11 a.m. in the program room. Ken and Renee Karter and their very funny Friends will present “Dream Big,” and after the show, he will demonstrate how to make puppets out of socks and bags for those interested. Please join us in this fun-filled kick-off for our summer reading program 2012. Contact info 575835-1114.

Magdalena Chamber of Commerce, 1st Wednesday, 6 p.m. Bear Mountain Coffee House, Call Danielle to confirm, 575-854-3310.

Fourth Annual Auction to benefit the Catron Food Pantries Saturday June 9, 2012. Preview 8:00AM Auction at 10a.m. Located at the Datil School Gym on Hwy 12, South of Hwy 60 Datil, NM. Contact info 575-772-5095

The Society of St. Vincent de Paul: The work on our backyard community garden has started, come in and help us work the two plots or donate vegetable plants for us to grow. We welcome your participation and good will. Bring your own tools to garden (shovels and rakes). We also welcome patio blocks & build walkways. . Call 505-847-0167 if you want to work on a community garden and a serenity garden project.

Missoula Children’s Theater present The Secret Garden. Auditions Monday, June 11, from 10 a.m. to noon at Finely Gym, with first rehearsal immediately after. No preparation necessary. Open to children grades 1-12. $20 registration fee only if selected to perform.

Rehearsals Tuesday, June 12, through Friday, June 15, from 10 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. Performance Saturday, June 16 at Finely Gym, 1 p.m. And 3 p.m. Tickets $5 for adults, free for under 18. MCT will also hold three free theater workshops at the Socorro Youth Center at 3 p.m. Topics are as follows: Tues., June 12, “Drama Quest,” grades 1-2; Wed., June 13, “What If?” grades 3-5; Thurs., June 14, “Let’s Make-Up,” all ages.

For more information, call Titia Barham at 575-835-5688.

Socorro Chamber of Commerce: Social evening for current members, anyone thinking about joining. Chamber office at 101 Plaza st. on Thursday, June 14 at 5:00 p.m. Social starts at 5:30 p.m., to be preceded by 15 minute orientation on Workforce Investment Act, which assists with employee training salaries. For more information contact Chamber@socorro-nm.com

Alamo 4-H, 6 p.m. 2nd Monday each month, Alamo Wellness Center. 575-835-0610.

Socorro Soil & Water Conservation District Meeting, 2nd Tuesday, August 10, 5:30 p.m. 103 Francisco de Avondo. Nyleen, 575-838-0078.

Animal Control Advisory Board, 2nd Tuesday, 5:30 p.m. City Hall. Kathe, 505-550-2007.

DAV Monthly Meeting, 6 p.m. 2nd Tuesday each month, DAV Building, 200 Fifth St. 575-835-0843.

GRIZZ Project Meeting, 2nd Tuesday each month, 6 p.m. at Magdalena Fire Station. Marguerite, 505-206-3565.

Socorro County Historical Society, 7 p.m. 2nd Tuesday each month. Location varies. Kay Brower, 575-835-1721.

Masonic Lodge #9, 7:30 p.m, 2nd Tuesday each month, 912 Leroy.

Gary Stendel, 575-496-4328.

Cottonwood Valley Charter School General Council, 2nd Wednesday, 5:30 p.m. at CVCS. Public meeting. 575-838-2026.

Socorro Amateur Radio Association, 7:30 p.m. 2nd Wednesday each month. County Annex, 198 Neel. Dave, 575-835-1432.

Socorro Healthy Infants, Family & Teens (SHIFT) 11:30 a.m. 2nd Thursday each month. Headstart Cafeteria. Beth or Betty, 575-835-8709.

Socorro County Tourism Council, 11:30 a.m. 2nd Thursday each month. Locations vary. Robyn, 575-517-0291.

Socorro County Fair Board, 7 p.m. 2nd Thursday each month.

Socorro County Fairgrounds. 575-835-0610.

Bingo, 7 p.m. Monday and Wednesday, DAV Hall, 200 N. Fifth St. 575-835-0843.

Eagles Club, 2nd Thursday each month. Ray, 575-835-9952 or Archie (Ladies’ Auxiliary) 505-507-2507.

El Camino Real International Heritage Center, Exit 115 off I-25.

Wednesdays, free for NM seniors 60+; Sundays, all NM residents free. 575-854-3600, www.elcaminoreal.org.

Lion’s Club, 6 p.m. 2nd & 4th Thursday each month, Bodega Burger Company. Vern, 575-835-3081.

ICAN Cooking, 6-8 p.m. Tuesday and 1-3 p.m. Thursday. 198 Neel Ave. 575-835-0610.

NARFE (Nat’l Assoc. Retired Federal Employees) 11:30 a.m. 2nd Friday each month, K-Bob’s. Naomi, 575-835-2040.

Midwest CAP Food Pantry, Wednesdays, 9-11 a.m. and 1-4 p.m. at 904 Spring St. Senior Helpings: first Wednesday of every month.

Florie or Virginia, 575-835-0899.

Mavericks 4-H Club, 6 p.m. 2nd Friday, Socorro County Fairgrounds, 575-835-0610.

Puerto Seguro Safe Harbor, 10 a.m.-2 p.m. Mon/Wed/Fri. Serving the homeless and in need. Duane, 575-835-2895.

Socorro Farmers’ Market, 9 a.m. Saturdays, at Socorro Community Kitchen. Fresh produce and more. 575-835-4018.

Fiber Arts Guild, 10 a.m. 2nd Saturday each month, Maxwell St. Janet 575-418-0314.

Recycle Newspapers and Aluminum Cans, 8:30-11:30 a.m. 1st Saturday each month, lot south of Ace Hardware. Chamber of Commerce, 575-835-0424.

Free Yoga, 9:30-10:30 a.m. Mon/Wed/Fri at Finley Gym. All are welcome, but no childcare is available. Jeanne, 575-838-0511.

Guided Night Sky Star Gazing, 1st Saturday, begins at dark. Free, no reservation required. Etscorn Observatory on campus of New Mexico Tech. Judy Stanley, VLA Education Officer, 575-835-7243.

Recycle Mixed Paper, Paperboard and Cardboard, 8:30-11:30 a.m. 3rd Saturday each month, Plaza. Chamber of Commerce. 575-835-0424.

EDUCATION Car Seat Safety Class, 10 a.m. Last Wednesday each month.

Healthy Family Initiative office, Free and open to the public. Betty, 575-835-8709.

Socorro Cooperative Nursery School Registration for the 2010-13 school year will be held from 8 to 10 a.m., Saturday, May 5 at the school, 304 McCutcheon Ave. Call 835-1336 for information.

LIVE MUSIC Open Mic, Monday, June 11, 7:30 p.m. Old Town Bistro, 575-838-3976.

Song Circle, last Thursday, 7:30 p.m. Old Town Bistro, 575-838-3976.

Socorro Tennis Association, Tue/Thu at 5:30 p.m. and Mon/Wed/ Fri at 8 a.m. at the city tennis courts, Sedillo Park. Fun Play Matches and monthly tournaments. Email aprusin@nmt.edu.

SUPPORT Addictions Support Group, Tuesday, 7 p.m. First Baptist Church, Quemado. Includes AA. 575-773-4594.

Al-Anon: Tuesday, 7 p.m., Presbyterian Church, Magdalena. Sunday, 7:30 p.m., Epiphany Episcopal Church, Socorro. New meeting: every Friday, 2:30 p.m. at Puerto Seguro. Call for more information: 1-888-425-2666 or 505-266-1900, www.al-anon.alateen.org.

Alcoholics Anonymous: Alamo - Monday, 6 p.m., Alamo Community Center. Magdalena - Thursday/Saturday, 7 p.m., Presbyterian Church.

Socorro - Monday/Wednesday/Friday, noon; Thursdays, 7:30 p.m; Sundays, 7:30 p.m.(closed meeting) at Epiphany Episcopal Church.

Saturdays, 9 a.m. at Puerto Seguro. AA Information: 575-835-9785.

Group Bereavement Support, available to anyone who needs help because of loss of a loved one. Audrie, 575-838-4098.

Struggling with Addiction, Friday, 7 p.m. Calvary Chapel.

575-838-9535.

Socorro Animal Shelter’s featured pets this week are Poe, an adorable little chihuahua mix. A little shy, but very sweet.

Shadow is a super loving cat, male, about 2 years old.

Make your pet connection at the Socorro Animal Shelter, on Highway 1, behind the UPS building, from Tuesday to Saturday, 10 a.m.-1 p.m. and 2-5 p.m. Also, find the shelter on Facebook, check out Petfinder.com or call the shelter staff at 575-838-3103.

Your No. 1 source for news & information for more than 146 years!

Weight Watchers, Thursday, 5:30 p.m. First meeting free. Epiphany Episcopal Church on Leroy Street. Roslynn, 575-418-8804.

El Defensor Chieftain

Send calendar submissions to calendar@dchieftain.com. Deadlines are Monday and Thursday at noon.

575-835-0520 • www.dchieftain.com

This mind-bending puzzle will have you hooked from the moment you square off, so sharpen your pencil and put your sudoku savvy to the test!

Puzzle #2563-M

SUDOKU

Open Mic, Friday, June 8, 7 p.m. Sofia’s, 575-835-0022.

ADOPT-A-PET

Rotary Club, noon on Wednesdays, at K-Bob’s. 575-838-0717.

RECREATION

First Saturday Tours of the VLA, 1st Saturday, 11 a.m., 1 p.m., 3 p.m. Free, no reservation required. Judy Stanley, VLA Education Officer, 575-835-7243.

Total rainfall for 2012 through June 5 is 0.83 inches.

Courtesy of Rosanne Schwiegerath

‘M’ Mountain Writers’ Critique Group, Tuesdays, 1 p.m. For location, call Cindy Kessler, 505-220-1563.

Story Hour and Craft Time, 10:30 a.m. Wednesdays & Thursdays.

Socorro Public Library. 575-835-1114.

Hammel Museum Open House, 9 a.m.-noon, 1st Saturday each month, 600 N. Sixth St. Free. Kay, 575-835-1721 or Bob, 575-835-5325.

Socorro County Weather

Socorro Republican Party, 1st Thursday every month, 6:30 p.m. at 115-B California. Della, 575-418-8145.

COMMUNITY

Peace Vigil, 4:30 p.m. Friday on the Plaza. 575-835-2517.

www.dchieftain.com

Here’s How it Works: Sudoku puzzles are formatted as a 9x9 grid, broken down into nine 3x3 boxes. To solve a sudoku, the numbers 1 through 9 must fill each row, column and box. Each number can appear only once in each row, column and box. You can figure out the order in which the numbers will appear by using the numeric clues already provided in the boxes. The more numbers you name, the easier it gets to solve the puzzle!

El Defensor Chieftain

www.dchieftain.com

JUNE 6, 2012 • 3

Co-op board approves draft REC contract

Agreement would still need PRC approval

By T.S. Last El Defensor Chieftain

tslast@dchieftain.com

Socorro Amid concerns and complaints from a small group of Socorro Electric Cooperative members, the co-op’s board of trustees approved a draft of a revised contract covering Renewable Energy Credits (REC) at last month’s meeting.

REC are awarded to customers who have invested in renewable energy sources, such as wind and solar power generators. The program, which was temporarily suspended earlier this year, offers credit to customers who produce more energy than they use from the co-op. Checks are issued once the credit amount exceeds $50.

According to the EPA’s website, the idea behind REC is to promote green energy and reduce the need for fossil fuel-based generation sources.

Three Socorro Electric customers took advantage of the public comment period of the board’s May 23 meeting to speak in favor of reviving and revising the REC program.

John Fredericks of Tierra Grande claimed that co-ops and energy com-

panies are buying REC to offset their “dirty” production of energy because it’s cheaper to do so than to invest in producing clean, renewable energy.

“I will only say that the current way most co-ops are going about it is in direct conflict with the spirit and intentions of why co-ops were created in the first place,” he said. “That is to say the banding together to help each other and the community they are a part of grow and have access to cheap energy for the common good.”

Fredericks said he didn’t think it was right that Socorro Electric was acting as “muscle men” for Tri-State, the company that provides the co-op with its energy, by charging the customers in the program a $16 monthly fee while not producing the energy the customers use.

“If the board would be willing to waive the $16 minimum fee for all solar 10-watt and under producers, then maybe we can come to an agreement that is beneficial to everyone,” he said.

Like Fredericks, Jim Lear of Magdalena applies a photovoltaic system that generates electrical power by converting solar radiation into direct current electricity. He said the co-op should be promoting clean energy use.

“It’s in the interest of members to encourage (solar panel) installation,” he said. “The price depends on the policies of the board.”

Jeannie Dixon of Socorro said

“It’s in the interest of members to encourage (solar panel) installation, the price depends on the policies of the board.”

Jim Lear Magdalena

the co-op should be working with the approximately 25 customers who utilized the program.

“I want to make sure we have a real strong say,” she said.

Later in the meeting, Socorro Electric General Manager Joseph Herrera presented a draft contract between the co-op and customers to the board.

“I’m asking for approval, so we can sit down with members and come up with something,” he said, adding that the agreement would still have to be approved by the New Mexico Public Regulation Commission.

The board approved the draft contract unanimously.

Related to the subject of renewable energy, Trustee Donald Wolberg reported on marketing alternative energy. While Socorro Electric purchases its power from Tri-State, Wolberg said there were

College-bound students get help with financial aid application process Internal Revenue Service Press Release

Phoenix College-bound students and their parents typically want to make every dollar and every minute of the college experience count including money spent on tuition and time spent on the college financial aid application process. The Internal Revenue Service is helping minimize the time spent on the completion of the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) form by automating access to federal tax returns with the IRS Data Retrieval Tool. This tool provides the opportunity for applicants to automatically transfer the required tax data onto the FAFSA form.

Here are some tips on using the IRS Data Retrieval Tool: Benefits The IRS Data Retrieval tool is an easy and secure way to access and transfer tax return information directly onto the FAFSA form, saving time and improving accuracy. Also, the increased accuracy reduces the likeli-

hood of being selected for verification by the school’s financial aid office.

Eligibility Criteria Taxpayers who wish to use the tool to complete their 2012 FAFSA form must: • have filed a 2011 tax return; • possess a valid Social Security Number; • have a Federal Student Aid PIN (individuals who don’t have a PIN, will be given the option to apply for one through the FAFSA application process); • have not changed marital status since Dec. 31, 2011.

Exceptions If any of the following conditions apply to the student or parents, the IRS Data Retrieval Tool can not be used for the 2012 FAFSA application: • an amended tax return was filed for 2011; • no federal tax return for 2011 has been filed ; • the federal tax filing status on the 2011 return is married filing separately; • a Puerto Rican or other

other options that could be explored.

“Other than Tri-State, there’s solar, geothermal and natural gas, but coal is king,” he said, adding that the feasibility of coal is greatly dictated by EPA regulations. “Our basic idea is Socorro Electric Cooperative is exploring alternatives to create an energy portfolio.”

Wolberg said solar arrays and large and small photovoltaic systems could be included in the portfolio and that funding sources are available.

Wolberg suggested that the alternative energy marketing plan be published in Enchantment, a magazine published by Tri-State and mailed to co-op customers, and posted to the Socorro Electric’s website. The co-op could then invite public input on the plan.

In another related matter, the board agreed to send a letter to Secretary of Energy Steven Chu asking him to reconsider his position on Power Marketing Administrations. The letter states that while transmission expansion, renewable energy, energy efficiency, cyber security and electric vehicles may be important public policy goals, the co-op has concerns over the potential impact to customers and stakeholders.

phone numbers of members on behalf of Charlene West, chairperson of the Socorro Electric Cooperative Reform Committee.

Trustee Charlie Wagner said he thought the request was appropriate and that case law dictates the co-op is required to release the information.

Others felt that addresses and phone numbers were more information than what should be released.

“What if members don’t want their names and addresses released?” asked Trustee Prescilla Mauldin.

Mauldin amended Wagner’s original motion to approve by limiting the release to just names. The board approved the amended motion, 7-1, with Wagner casting the lone vote against.

• The board approved a series of policy changes. One would include an Equal Employment Opportunity statement to the policy manual. Others addressed the uniform and clothing policy, dress code and gets the general manager the authority to send employees to training at his discretion.

• During his manager’s report, Herrera said the co-op comfortably made its margins for the last quarter. That’s important because Socorro Electric is currently operating in technical default on more that $20 million in loans it received from the USDA Rural Utilities Service.

The next meeting of the board was set for 5:30 p.m. on Wednesday, June 27.

In Other Business:

• The board agreed to release only the names of co-op members to Socorro attorney Lee Deschamps, who sent a letter requesting names, addresses and

HAPPY ANNIVERSARY

foreign tax return has been filed.

Alternatives If the IRS Data Retrieval Tool can not be used and if the college requests verification documentation, it may be necessary to obtain an official transcript from the IRS. To order tax return or tax account transcripts, visit www.irs.gov and select “Order a Transcript” or call the toll-free line at 1-800908-9946 In addition to helping reduce the time and effort involved in completing and submitting the FAFSA form through the IRS Data Retrieval Tool, the IRS offers money-saving information to college students and their parents. Important information regarding tax credits and deductions for qualifying tuition, materials and fees is available at the IRS Tax Benefits for Education: Information Center and in IRS Publication 970, Tax Benefits for Education both of which are available at www.IRS.gov.

Submitted Photo

Juan and Vivian Martinez of Socorro celebrated their 60th wedding anniversary on April 21, 2012, at the Knights of Columbus Hall in Socorro.

Got news?

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A Board retreat of the Socorro Consolidated Schools Board of Education has been called for Saturday and Sunday June 9-10, 2012 beginning at 2:00 p.m. 0n Saturday and 9:00 am on Sunday and will be held at the Crowne Plaza Garden Room which is located at 1901 University Blvd in Albuquerque, New Mexico. The purpose of the meeting is to discuss and consider action upon the items as reflected on the agenda, or that which may come up during the course of the meeting. The meeting will be conducted in accordance with the Open Meetings Act of 1978 as amended. Copies of the Agenda will be available for public review at Central Office on Franklin St. If you are an individual with a disability who is in need of a reader, amplifier, qualified sign language interpreter, or any other form of auxiliary aid or service to attend or participate in the hearing or meeting, please contact the office of the Superintendent of Schools at 700 Franklin Street at least one week prior to the meeting or as soon as possible. Public documents, including the agenda and minutes, can be provided in a variety of formats.

AGENDA I. Call the meeting to order II. Pledge of Allegiance III. Ascertain quorum, approval of agenda and consider agenda approval. Consideration of the approval of the minutes of the regular meetings held on May 21, 2012 and May 29, 2012.

IV. Business Matters a. Approval of payroll (A) b. Approval of vouchers (A) c. Approval of cash and budget reports (A) d. Budget adjustment requests (A) e. Approval of Jaramillo vouchers (A) V. Old Business a. Procurement Including Proposals and Bids for 2012-2013 (A) b. Annual Leave Payout (A) VI. New Business a. Approval of School Handbooks (l) b. SA Ed Specs (l) c. Resignations and Appointments d. Correspondence and Announcements e. Board Retreat 1. Ice Breaker 2. Data Review 3. Discussion of Goals 4. Principal Attendance at Board Meetings VII. Executive Session - “The Board may elect to go into executive session for reasons listed in the Open Meetings Act, 10-15-1 Section H. The authority for the executive session and the subject to be discussed must be stated with reasonable specificity in the motion calling for the vote to go into executive session.” a. Limited Personnel Matters b. Interim Superintendent Evaluation VIII. Items/Announcements from Board Members IX. Adjourn

viewpoints El Defensor Chieftain

4 • JUNE 6, 2012

No way to cultivate young farmers

U.S. Deputy Secretary of Agriculture Kathleen Merrigan visited New Mexico recently to encourage students to think about careers in agriculture. New Mexico has the nation’s highest average age for farmers and ranchers, at nearly 60, and the rest of the country looks similar. Among farmers and ranchers, the over-65 crowd is the fastest growing group, says the U.S. Census.

The USDA has programs to help young farmers and ranchers, but the New Mexico Farm and Livestock Bureau has said the red tape is a barrier.

The National Young Farmers’ Coalition is pushing for training, access to financing and credit, student loan forgiveness for new farmers, and tax Sherry Robinson breaks for selling land to young farmers.

I once interviewed a young guy whose dream was to be a rancher, but if you’re not born into ranching or have a pot of money from some other endeavor, the barrier to entry is quite high. He had begun with 20 acres, worked for a livestock auction, and planned to bootstrap.

Any more, it takes a pot of money just for farmers, ranchers and dairies to stay in business with drought, market prices and rising costs. Even if the younger generation wants to keep the family land, they have to think long and hard.

Another bootstrap option is to rent or lease land, and this can work, but we’ve seen the down side when your landlord is the state.

At Dixon’s Apple Orchard, where floods last year destroyed anything the Las Conchas wildfire hadn’t already leveled, the youngish Becky and Jim Mullane lease from the State Land Office, which acquired the property in a 2005 land swap with UNM. Trees the Mullanes planted and improvements they built at their own expense are considered state property, so insurance money went to the state.

The Mullanes have nothing left but the lease, which they want to sell to San Felipe Pueblo for $2.8 million; the proceeds would allow them to buy land and grow apples in Wisconsin.

Land Commissioner Ray Powell has said no, arguing the pueblo lacks 20 years’ orchard experience, even though the long-time orchard foreman would stay on, and several pueblo members have worked there for years. This argument also ignores the fact that the pueblo has the wherewithal to hire any experience it needs and to create jobs and economic opportunity.

Powell has offered to invest the insurance money in rebuilding, but everybody admits the property remains vulnerable to flooding, and the Mullanes simply don’t have the heart to stay. They’ve appealed the decision.

Recently, former Land Commissioner Jim Baca blogged that he hopes Powell sticks to his guns. Baca has a problem with the Mullanes making a windfall from state land. Powell’s comments indicate his real heartburn is the 2005 land swap made by his predecessor, Pat Lyons.

Lyons wanted to keep the tract together, but the Mullanes wanted only the 65-acre orchard; Lyons threw in 8,500 acres for $100 a year.

The Mullanes say this drought-parched acreage can’t be grazed; Powell thinks he can get a better deal.

Because all of us are the owners, and Powell is our representative, public lands come with rules governing bids and uses. Lyons is catching flak for favoring a private entity, but all he did was go the extra mile to accommodate a family whose orchard many New Mexicans visited every fall. They shouldn’t have to walk away empty handed.

The less sentimental Powell is catching flak for adding to the Mullanes’ grief. He also seems too eager to complain about Lyons – the campaign is over, Ray – but as the steward of our land, he’s supposed to be protecting our interests.

We have here willing parties. If they’d cool their rhetoric, there’s a solution that will satisfy them all. And by the time they find it, the Mullane children will have decided to become lawyers.

www.dchieftain.com

Off the Easel

All She Wrote

© 2012 New Mexico News Service Editor’s Note: The opinions expressed on the Viewpoints page(s) are not necessarily those of El Defensor Chieftain.

El Defensor Chieftain T.H. Lang President

Letters to the Editor

So long Socorro I’m going to miss Socorro — for all the reasons Tom Kozeny mentions (see Socorro on My Mind below) and more.

S o c o r r o County is, indeed, a great place to live. I spent the last 4 ½ years of my life here, so can attest to that. There’s such an eclectic mix of people here and so many fascinating places to see. Socorro will forever remain on my mind.

One thing I won’t miss much is the mitote — something as a journalist I’ve often worked to dispel. This isn’t the only place where rumors, half-truths and falsehoods circulate, of course. But they seem more prevalent, and can have a greater impact, in small communities.

Just last month I returned from vacation to learn that the chitchat going around was that I had left the paper and El Defensor Chieftain was going out of business. I hadn’t left the paper (I was on vacation!) and the Chieftain isn’t going anywhere. It’s been here 146 years and will be here long after I’m gone, which, now, will be relatively soon. It happened quite quickly and unexpectedly. I’m going to work for the Albuquerque Journal at its office in Santa Fe. There, you read it in the Chieftain, so it must be true. I have a friend who once told me that the mitote circulates around here, but people wait for the Chieftain to find out the real story.

And that’s our charge — to serve as a credible source of information the

public can rely on to provide accurate information.

Oh, I’ve made my share of mistakes. But with a sense of T.S. Last respon sibi l it y and obligation I’ve always tried to correct them.

I’ll leave here content in knowing that I’ve done my best to help this paper fulfill its role as the Fourth Estate.

This newspaper won the New Mexico Press Association’s General Excellence award for our division two years ago. It essentially earned us the distinction of being the best little newspaper in New Mexico.

I’m proud of that, but I’m just as proud, if not more so, that we also won the Public Service award that same year. To me, that’s what it’s all about. A newspaper should serve its community — not only as a source for what’s happening in the community, but to inform, educate and, when necessary, affect positive change.

We have our critics. There’s even some haters out there. Like us or not, El Defensor Chieftain has been, and probably always will be, an integral part of this community. In my admittedly biased opinion, you should be proud too.

One mistake I won’t make is to try to name names in thanking all the people who helped me out during my tenure Inevitably I’ll leave someone out. Hopefully, you know who you are.

If you’re reading this, you’re probably one of them. Thanks for your support.

Last Writes

Sky’s not falling in Socorro County Editor: I wanted to take a moment to give further clarification regarding Socorro County’s interim budget as reported in El Defensor Chieftain on June 2, 2012.

The Board of County Commission has no intention of reducing our workforce in the near future. However, the Board is aware that the FY12-13 general fund budget shortfall could affect future budget years and is making plans for how to address that concern.

The Board has agreed to approve a deficit budget and use a portion of our reserve funds in order to ensure we retain all employees and grant raises at the same time. Even in a deficit budget, we are in a very strong financial position. At the end of this fiscal year, Socorro County will have between $4 million and $5 million in our general fund reserves to be used in years we do experience budgetary shortfalls.

Even with over a year’s worth of money available in reserve funds, the county’s administration is extremely cautious and conservative and the intent is to minimize any impact on our reserves when possible. After all, reserve funds should be used for one-time capital improvements and not continuous operational costs.

Though Socorro County is financially healthy, unless we see an improvement in our annual revenue, staff cuts are a possibility in subsequent years. With great foresight, our Board wants to explore all those possibilities well ahead of time to prepare the best fiscal approach that will allow us to continue and improve county services well into the future.

Delilah Walsh Socorro County Manager

David B. Puddu

Vice President/ Chief Operating Officer

200 Winkler St., Socorro, nM 87801 Telephone: 575-835-0520 • Fax: 575-835-1837 E-mail: editorial@dchieftain.com On the Web at: www.dchieftain.com

Socorro voted best place to live

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Here’s good news: Socorro has just been voted the most desirable American city in which to live! We all knew that, of course, but it’s good that it’s now become official. The reasons that were given may seem obvious to us, but they’ll be remembered as those that put us on the map.

First, it’s the weather. It’s the place with the fewest tsunamis, volcanic eruptions, tornadoes, hurricanes, and spilt coffee in fast food shops. Oh, and fewest rain-drops.

We won’t count last week, when we woke to the croak ‘n choke smoke that was stoked out west. That didn’t get us any votes.

The second reason Socorro won the vote was the age of its founding — Coronado and Oñate came in the 16th century and, of course, the Piros were around centuries before that. We now know that Coronado went on to set up a mall in Albuquerque, and Oñate spent his time hanging out in Piro casinos dialing for gold nuggets.

The Bosque del Apache National Wildlife Refuge, the probable location of the Garden of Eden, is close enough to Socorro to lend its renown and magnificent beauty to the town and, indeed, to the entire area. It alone would have won Socorro its top position.

New Mexico Tech, though considered one of the best small science and engineering schools in North America, was noted in this case mostly for the crafty swimmers who drop by its pool almost daily and,

Socorro On My Mind Tom Kozeny

though not necessarily speedy, are able to make artistic splashes and keep their heads above water.

Another cause of Socorro’s vote as the best was the Socorro Electric Coop. Ever since its inception, according to extant records, it has never had a boring meeting — of those, at least, that were open to the public.

The Socorro seismic fault behind so many rumbles that pass through the area was not to be left out, either. The reason, it appears, was that the fault was forgiven by the mayor and so has never been a problem.

The VLA, so close to Socorro, so favored to the world, was not a surprise in being a major reason for the city’s fame. It was recently renamed Victor Loves Alice, after a couple tied the knot under one of the antennas, where their names later appeared in graffiti and were posted on YouTube, putting the place over the top in celebrity.

No surprise, either, was the inclusion of 7,243 foot “M” Mountain in netting Socorro the peak spot. Though the “M” that is displayed on its crest is now known to have existed there since before King David or even Mayor Bhasker came on the scene, recent historical records show it referred to the first half of a famous candy — and the last half — since antediluvian times.

Since Socorro is actually a suburb, as we know, of Luis López, its winning the vote is all the more remarkable. Luis López, however, will not partake of the first-place benefits, since it still has not attracted Walmart to set up within its city limits.

The 1964 UFO sighting by officer Lonnie Zamora was perhaps the best-documented such sighting ever, and included that of a vehicle and “two little men.” It contributed to Socorro’s top ranking and countless sightings of little men and little women ever since.

The vote that declared Socorro to be the number-one city in the land gave it an eminence it clearly deserves. The vote was unanimous: 1 to 0. Congratulations, Socorro! You’ve made us all proud.

Kozeny has worked as a teacher, counselor, and in pastoral ministry. He can be reached by e-mail to tko-z@sdc.org.

El Defensor Chieftain

www.dchieftain.com

JUNE 6, 2012 • 5

Blast: Red Cross provides assistance Continued from Page 1 explosion, but didn’t immediately notice the flames.

A nearby neighbor saw the flames in the back of the mobile home and called 911.

The two fire departments that responded to the propane explosion were District 14 in Abeyta and District 11 in Veguita.

After receiving the 911 call, State Police Officer Clint Norris was the first to arrive at the scene, since he was travelling south from Santa Fe. Upon his arrival, he made contact with the family and made sure everyone was safe.

Sweeney and Deputy William Armijo arrived about 15 minutes later. Sweeney said when he arrived he also made sure everyone was accounted for, and that all family members were together. Sweeney said it was fortunate that everyone got out of the home and no one was hurt.

“Everyone was upset, and we’re thankful everyone

was safe,” Sweeney said. “We were happy when we got there that the family was out of the house and got out safely.”

Abeyta Fire Chief Kelly Voris said the family lost everything, including clothing, furniture and other household items. The advice Voris gives to prevent future propane explosions is to make sure a professional fills up the propane tank correctly and legally.

“Make sure the tanks are legal, up to date and whoever is certified knows what they’re doing,” Voris said.

Beverly Allen, communications coordinator of Red Cross, said the Red Cross is providing food, clothing and bedding to the family. Allen said the family wanted to stay with other family members and were given comfort kits. The comfort kits include toiletry items, combs and wash clothes. The children also were given coloring books.

Brent Rufner/Valencia County News-Bulletin

A family in Veguita were left without a home after a propane tank blew up, causing a fire that destroyed their mobile home. No one was injured in the blast or blaze.

Budget: Projected $650,000 shortfall now estimated at about $558,000 Continued from Page 1 and antiquated software licenses will not be renewed, the district will begin hosting its own website, use of substitute teachers will be reduced, a different mail monitoring system will be implemented, and measures will be taken to reduce the cost of utilities.

Against Board President Ann Shiells’ previous advice, one of the two counseling positions at Socorro High School will be cut.

Shiells later said, “My understanding is that they are going to fill one position and another person existing in the system will help with scheduling and credit checks and those types of things, and we had to find places to cut, so at least two people will be in the office, and the other will be dealing primarily with student issues.”

The position of human resources director was to be left vacant, with duties to be assumed by Assistant Superintendant George Schumpelt, who is currently in charge of curriculum.

Shiells made note of the board’s previous desire to hire someone to handle curriculum full-time so as to alleviate teachers of that burden, and how that burden would, in part, fall back upon the teachers if Schumpelt were expected to add HR duties to his job description.

“It (would be) too much for me to handle,” Schumpelt said.

Perry recommended the board go along with the committee’s recommendation to eliminate the HR director position, but the board decided against it. Finance Officer Donald Monette estimated the total cost of hiring an HR director to be $110,000, which was added to the budget.

Work days for administrators were to be reduced from 245 to 230 in

the cases of two employees at central office, three at SHS, one at Sarracino, and one at Zimmerly; from 245 to 220 in the cases of the Individualized Education Program and maintenance directors; and from 245 to 241 in the cases of the finance office, food service and transportation administrators, with the superintendents’ schedules to remain at 245 days. But it didn’t sit right with the board that two employees would bear the brunt of this reduction, so at an estimated cost of $20,000, the IEP and maintenance directors were brought up to 230 hours.

Rumors Quashed

One man, however, did have a personal complaint about the board’s budgeting actions. During public comments, Zimmerly Elementary Principal Rey Carrejo enumerated the issues he had with his relocation to Parkview Elementary.

Carrejo said he felt “singled out, and that seniority was not taken into account (when this decision was made.) ... I feel discriminated against.”

The board explained that, due to the reduction in enrollment for Zimmerly, they were going to remove the position of principal altogether and replace it with a head teacher, who would handle teaching as well as administrative duties. As a result, in order to keep Carrejo on an administrator’s pay scale, they were moving him to Parkview and moving Parkview’s dean of students, Janice Jaramillo, to Zimmerly to assume the role of head teacher.

With all of the cuts to be identified, Monette said it might calm some people’s nerves.

“This will quash rumors that secretaries are getting cut and pay is getting cut,” he said.

After adding the HR director posi-

tion back into the budget and increasing the IEP and maintenance directors’ work time to match the other administrators’ schedules, the board unanimously passed the budget with an estimated deficit of $650,000.

Now the PED will decide whether to provide the $650,000 in emergency funding the district will require. If it grants SCS the funds requested, it will scrutinize every aspect of the board’s spending for the next year and may move up deadlines for audits, demand a general reduction of personnel, cut programs, or other such sanctions.

“They (the state) might tell us we’re top heavy,” Shiells said. “(But) if we have to (get rid of administrators), we have to.”

However, if the PED rejects the budget and its deficit, the board will spend its next meeting reducing the deficit even further.

Shiells made it clear she was willing to renegotiate the budget if necessary, but that she felt it more important to try for more funds in order make sure staff “has enough time to do their jobs.”

Fiscal Responsibility

As she said at the last meeting, “This school district has been fiscally responsible for many years, and the only time we request emergency funding is when we absolutely need it. It doesn’t mean we’ve been functioning outside what is reasonable. I, personally, do not have any reservations about applying for this fund because education needs to remain strong in this community.”

At this meeting, Shiells added further justification for requesting funds from the state. About 12 years ago, she said, when SCS and other districts had sizable cash reserves, the state took a lot of money from those reserves for its own purposes.

“The state previously took money from our cash reserves, so I don’t feel bad about asking for money from them now,” she said, later adding, “I’m not overjoyed that we have to request emergency funding, but I do not want education to be negatively impacted.”

The next morning, though, Monette had some good news. He said the additions made would not bring the budget up nearly as much as he’d predicted.

His revised projected shortfall was just $557,924.

And now, Monette said, “We will be asking the state to help us with emergency supplemental funds to cover this deficit. There is no guarantee the state will meet this request. Also, the PED can still require we make other cuts.”

The Pre-K Question

This budget does not include the pre-kindergarten program, which was partially funded by the district’s cash reserves last year. Whether or not that service will be offered this year is still up in the air, pending external funding sources.

The Head Start preschool program would be able to accommodate the fouryear-old children who would otherwise be going on to pre-K should that program fail to get funding, but the parents of some children are expecting pre-K to be offered again and haven’t filled out paperwork to keep their kids enrolled.

San Antonio School

The board decided to take the BLM up on its land offer and will be purchasing the entire 25-acre parcel at $10 per acre.

No decision has been made as to whether the current facilities will be renovated or new facilities built.

However, if the old building is renovated, the land will be used for nature

PUBLIC NOTICE

The Socorro County Board of County Commissioners will meet for a “Special Election Canvassing Meeting” on June 8, 2012 at 10:00 a.m. in the Socorro County Annex Building 198 Neel Ave, Socorro NM. A complete agenda may be obtained from the County Manager by contacting 575-835-0589 or cgriego@co.socorro.nm.us.

An agenda is also available online at www.co.socorro.nm.us under the Manager & Commission department heading.

trails or an outdoor classroom.

There is a trespassing issue with the multipurpose room being built at the current school, which would have to be resolved if said facilities were to stay in use.

Interim Superintendant Vanetta Perry suggested that the district focus on building a new school. Board Secretary Dawn Weaver suggested that the BLM land option be used to resolve the trespass issue.

Still, even after deciding to buy this land, the board has two years before they’ll be able to do anything with it.

Until that time has passed, this will not change the day-to-day school activities of the San Antonio School’s students.

Socorro High Achievers

On the bright side of things, the board approved two out-of-state trips for extracurricular groups at Socorro High School.

The SHS varsity cross country team will be going to a meet at Adams State College in Alamosa, Colo. Seven boys, seven girls and three coaches will be going to the meet, which takes place on Saturday, Sept. 8.

SHS cross country head coach Steven Montoya said in his report that the trip was an opportunity to give his runners a glimpse of the university and one of Division II’s top cross country programs.

Also, the SHS Mathematics, Engineering, and Science Achievement team will be going to Seattle for a competition, June 22-24. This competition’s focus is wind energy.

The team will “give an oral presentation, prepare an academic display, write a technical paper, and design/ build their physical devices,” according to Washington MESA’s website.

El Defensor Chieftain

6 • JUNE 6, 2012

www.dchieftain.com

Las Cruces artist uses small shapes to create huge masterpieces

By Lindsey Padilla El Defensor Chieftain Reporter

lpadilla@dchieftain.com

Socorro In the mind of an artist, dedication and imagination are just some of the words that inspire creativity. Art influences artists and others to be daring — to color outside of the lines. With ideas and perspectives, the creative mind can never go too far.

The Socorro County Chamber of Commerce spotlights a local artist each month, and June’s featured artist is Las Cruces artist Roy van der Aa. This is the second time he’s been featured by the Commerce — the first was in 2009.

Van der Aa possesses a talent for eye catching artistic techniques, specializing in painting and sculptures.

He is also the publisher of “The Ink,” a monthly newspaper for arts and entertainment, and says he has been an artist for as long as he can remember.

Drawing since he was 4, he has always expressed himself through either art, poetry, or music. Van der Aa’s work embodies unique compositions, using an original flare for structure and development to make his artwork stand out.

“I started off as a landscape artist in the 1970s. Then I did years of conceptual art,” said Van der Aa. His work varies from paintings, collages and sculptures. His collages start with a combination of different source materials from magazine clippings to photographs taken by himself or friends. His ability to change, create and alter his own work starts with new and old techniques, such as using detail with fine lines or sometimes using wallpaper samples and developing new styles for his paintings. In some of his work he’ll alter the clip-

Lindsey Padilla/El Defensor Chieftain

Las Cruces artist Roy van der Aa stands in front of his “New Work: Geometric Abstraction,” which this month adorns the art wall at the Socorro County Chamber of Commerce. This new abstraction artwork was created in 2010. The artwork behind him includes the titles “Messages,” “Ochre Temple,” “Alizarin Spring,” “It is Red, Again” and “House of Cards.” pings or the samples he receives, then change the raw elements to have a faux finish, using a wide range of painting techniques.

With the clippings he collects, van der Aa can adjust the value and tonality of all his work. He doesn’t plan out a piece in advance, but chooses colors he wants to work with. The clippings he collects are then made into a collage on a grid, and the grid creates the structure

of the piece.

Van der Aa has travelled to Europe and gets his inspiration from 1930s European collage artists and the designs on American quilts. From 2003-09 he did figurative political art inspired by the recent political Tea Party, but decided political art wasn’t for him.

“After political paintings every time I left the studio, I was tensed up,” he said. “In 2010 it was impossible to

engage in any political art work.”

A majority of his artwork, such as “It’s Not Easy Being Green” and “Quilted Stars,” focus on geometric shapes. He doesn’t always stick to painting, but creates his geometric sculptures through the shapes of squares and rectangles.

Van der Aa also uses color for texture and shape. He says he feels most relaxed when working with new tex-

tures and geometric shapes because it’s a form of meditation. He not only focuses on artwork, but he also creates sculptures occasionally of cats and dogs from discarded materials.

Children have an open mind to learning new things, and van der Aa demonstrates painting simple masterpieces and takes his paintings to grade schools in Las Cruces. He shows students a variety of techniques with his geometric sculpture and work, because he knows the children are highly interested in learning more about art. He has also done presentations to their math classes, so the students can see the physical application of geometry.

The challenges he faces as an artist are in the pre-planning stage. He says if he doesn’t pre-plan, there’s always a possibility that he’ll fall flat on his face with a particular image.

Van der Aa says the best advice he got from a teacher was that it’s very easy to over-paint; the hard part is knowing when to stop. While creating his artwork, it’s a balancing act, he says. Everything comes together, and it stops when the last piece falls into place.

“My work is about rhythm,” he says.

“I always paint with music on in the background — from blues to classical music, to techno and punk rock.”

For the past three months van der Aa has been working on a 30 square painting for a two person show with Jeanne Rundell in August. He has competed in over 60 art shows and won second place in the Tombaugh Gallery in Las Cruces for the jury exhibit. The piece was a non-figurative portrait of Andy Warhol.

Van der Aa was born in Holland and immigrated into the United States in 1989. He lives in Las Cruces and has been a professional painter since 1970.

Get outdoors and enjoy refuge, forest this Saturday Neotropical birds passing through Bosque del Apache U.S. Fish and Wildlife Press Release

BoSque del ApAche On Saturday, June 9, enjoy a fee free day at Bosque del Apache National Wildlife Refuge, as the refuge joins other federal agencies, nonprofit organizations and the recreation industry in celebrating the fifth annual National Get Outdoors Day. GO Day encourages everyone to take advantage of the public lands in their backyards and seeks to reconnect youth to the great outdoors.

With almost 20 miles of hiking trails and a 12-mile auto tour loop, Bosque del Apache NWR offers bountiful opportunity to explore one of New Mexico’s treasured public lands.

To encourage visitors to take advantage of this thriving oasis on the Middle Rio Grande,

the refuge will waive its daily entrance fee on Saturday, June 9.

“Early June is a great time to visit the refuge,” says acting refuge manager Aaron Mize. “Neotropical migratory birds are passing through, adding a dash of color to the landscape, and our seasonal draw-down of wetland impoundments attracts a variety of wildlife seeking new foraging opportunities.”

The refuge offers wildlife viewing and photography opportunities, hiking and biking opportunities, and from now until Sept. 1, select waters within the refuge are open to fishing to those with state fishing licenses.

GO Day is an outgrowth of the Get Outdoors USA! campaign, which encourages Americans, especially youth, to seek out healthy, active outdoor lives and embrace our parks, forests, refuges and other public lands and waters.

Forest Service waiving recreation fees USDA Forest Service Press Release

AlBuquerque The Cibola National Forest and Grasslands is hosting a fee free day to encourage people to get out and enjoy their national forests and grasslands. The Cibola will join other federal agencies for Get Outdoor Day on Saturday, June 9, 2012. On the fee waiver dates, there is no charge to use most of the Cibola’s day use and camp sites. The only exception is for reservations made through the National Recreation Reservation Service.

Before you go, please check the Cibola’s website for the latest fire restrictions. The Black Kettle, McClellan Creek Kiowa and Rita Blanca National Grasslands do not have fire restrictions. However, because of the severe drought conditions, the Mt. Taylor, Magdalena, Mountainair and Sandia Ranger

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Districts have enacted Stage I fire restrictions.

Stage I fire restrictions include: 1. Building, maintaining, attending or using a fire, campfire, charcoal, coal, or wood stove, except within a developed recreation site, or improved site.

The use of petroleum-fueled stoves, lanterns or heating devices providing such devices meet the fire underwriter’s specifications for safety is allowed.

2. Smoking, except within an enclosed vehicle or building, a developed recreation site, or while stopped in an area at least three feet in diameter that is barren or cleared of all flammable material.

Possessing, discharging or using any kind of fireworks or pyrotechnic device is always prohibited in National Forests.

This year’s remaining fee waiver dates are: • Sept. 29 — National Public Lands Day • Nov. 10-12 — Veterans Day weekend

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JUNE 7,6,2012 2012••77 MARCH

Chamber News Quality, Reliability & Excellence

JUNE 2012

P.O. Box 743, Socorro, NM 87801 – 575-835-0424 • www.socorro-nm.com

Why Chamber membership is important

OFFICERS President

Sue Meza President-Elect

Kathy Spring Past President

Barbara Romero Treasurer

Randy Torres

BOARD MEMBERS Steven Aguilar, Jr. Lauren Finley Cindy Lam

Are you already a Chamber member or thinking about becoming one?

If you’re a small or large business or organization, there is a long list of benefits to membership. First and foremost, the Chamber exposes your company’s name to the public and business community. With a membership, both your business or organization and the economic development of the community is promoted, which, in turn, helps the whole county.

Does your business have an effective presence on the web? We’ve been working hard in the past year to increase our support of members online, from an enhanced Chamber website and YouTube videos promoting our county to a thriving Chamber Facebook page, which has become a great way for locals to connect with the community. Even if you don’t have a Facebook account, we can still

promote your events, information, and specials on Facebook to several hundred followers. Simply email any information you’d like shared to coc@socorro-nm. com. In addition to our social media efforts, we promote you and your business with a prominent listing and logo on our website at www.socorro-nm.com, and through member announcements on our website, as well.

All of this online information sharing doesn’t mean we’ve stopped supporting our members in more traditional ways: information packets on local businesses are still provided to potential visitors, new residents, NMT students, First Responders, and conference attendees.

Also, brochures, business cards, merchandise, and local artwork are displayed prominently in the Chamber office for exposure to tourists and other walk-in traffic. Our monthly newsletter goes out

to approximately 350 households and businesses. Does your business have specials, upcoming events, or coupons that you’d like to have promoted to the community? The Chamber is happy to insert member flyers into its newsletter.

Member businesses have access to the Chamber’s bulk mailing permit, as well.

In addition to including member flyers as inserts in the Chamber newsletter, new members are highlighted each month, to keep the community abreast of new products and services being offered.

The monthly Member Spotlight typically highlights 6 to 8 local businesses to remind readers of who they are and what they do. El Defensor Chieftain also prints the Chamber of Commerce newsletter on their monthly Chamber Page, so information about member businesses reaches a wider audience, as well. You may have noticed that we’ve started to promote our

monthly member spotlight businesses on our Facebook page as well, with a link to the member’s website and/or Facebook page.

A Chamber membership also supports our county in other ways. We’re very involved in supporting civic causes, such as recycling programs, roadside trash pick-up, green and sustainable living, the beautification of Socorro, and more. A Chamber membership helps the community as a whole.

If you’re already a member, we really value your trust in us and your support of our local economy. If you’re not yet a member, give us a call to see how we might be able to help! Please contact Director Terry Tadano at 575-835-0424 or via email at terry@socorro-nm.com.

Gwen Roath Linda Rosales

Welcome New Members!

Edie Steinhoff Victoria Torres Dan Walsh

STAFF Director

Terry Tadano Assistant Director

Robyn Harrison Communications Director

Jennifer Polle Webmaster

Susan Wisdom

Presbyterian Socorro General Hospital Auxiliary Gift Shop is a 100% volunteer run venture with all profits going to support the hospital and its associated programs. The gift shop offers high quality and eclectic gift items ranging from a wonderful selection of painted ponies, religious items, stuffed animals, baby items, and children’s toys to locally made jellies, salsas, and hot sauces.

When you shop at the Hospital Gift Shop, you are not only supporting the hospital, but our wider community, as well. The shop is open on Monday through Friday from 10am to 2pm. For more information, please contact Peter Romero at 575-418-7656. Call the Gift Shop directly at 575-835-8778.

Sichler Farms Produce and Snake Ranch, owned by Paula and Chris Sichler,

operate two seasonal produce stands which open annually from August through October.

Paula Sichler operates their San Antonio market at 88 Highway 380, along with the help of store manager Natalie Armijo. The Los Lunas market, Ernie Sichler Farms (originally owned by Chris’ father Ernie), is located at 135 Sichler Rd., and is managed by son and business partner Steven Sichler. Even when their produce stands are not open, you can still obtain sun-dried red chile pods and powder, year round. For more information, contact Paula by email at paula@sichlerchile.com or by phone at 575-838-2839. Learn more on their website at www.sichlerchile.com or follow them on their Facebook page!

Miriam Armijo says “Shop Socorro” June's Chamber Artist of the month Lily Ward Roy Van der Aa

I say “Shop Socorro” because employees are very helpful in finding what we are looking for. After telling one lady what I was looking for, she checked where the item was supposed to be and said “sorry, we are all sold out.” Then, “Hold on, let me check out back”. Sure enough, she found one. We saved on gas, because I didn’t have to go out of town for one.

Another time, my husband needed a car part. He tried every local store and couldn’t find what he needed. But guess what? An employee said “let me get on the computer”. Sure enough, he found one, ordered it, and a week later my husband got the part.

Did I mention that we saved on gas? Yes, I say “Shop Socorro”.

Note: Miriam is our 7th Shop Socorro Story contest winner. She won a gift certificate to K-Bob’s Steakhouse.

Celebrating “dear old Dad” Father’s Day this year falls on Sunday, June 17th.

Sonora Smart Dodd, of Washington state, first had the idea of a “Father’s Day” while listening to a Mother’s Day sermon in 1909. Dodd wanted a special day to honor her father, William Smart, a Civil War veteran who was widowed when his wife died giving birth to their sixth child.

Mr. Smart raised the newborn and his other five children on a rural farm in eastern Washington. As an adult, Ms. Dodd recognized her father’s dedication and selflessness and, with the assistance of the Spokane, Washington YMCA, the first Father’s Day was celebrated in 1910.

What are your Father’s Day traditions? Many families honor their fathers or father figures with phone calls, dinners out, favorite foods, cards and gifts. Typically, Father’s Day gifts involve grilling supplies, tools, and home improvement or automotive gadgets. If you choose to buy a gift for your father this year, consider shopping locally,

here in Socorro County. Many Chamber of Commerce members have stores with a variety of unique gifts. If you’d like to do something a little different, consider purchasing some art from one of our local artists, a round of golf at the Tech golf course, or a gift certificate to a local restaurant!

What about a donation to a cause that’s dear to your father’s heart? Consider Animal Protective Association of Socorro (APAS), Puerto Seguro Day Shelter, Save our Bosque Task Force, Literacy Volunteers of Socorro, Socorro Storehouse, or another local charity.

Why support local businesses and organizations? When shopping locally, you simultaneously create jobs, fund more city services through gross receipts tax, invest in neighborhood improvement, and promote community development.

Also, locally owned businesses tend to build strong neighborhoods by linking neighbors and by contributing more to local causes.

Chamber social evening for members and potential members Mark your calendars! Stop by the Chamber office for some good conversation and refreshments on Thursday, June 14 around 5:30 p.m. Visit with other members, the Chamber staff, and the Chamber Board of Directors. If you’re thinking about joining the Chamber of Commerce, but would like to learn a little more, this is the perfect time to come by and say hello — we’d love to meet you!

Note: There will be a special and informative event of interest to business owners, immediately prior to the social evening at 5:00 pm. Angela Rael of New Mexico Work Force Connections will be making a presentation on how businesses can be reimbursed for up to 90% of new employee wages and training costs. Angela will stay to mingle and answer any questions you may have.

NEW REGISTERED BUSINESSES (May) Diva Luis Lopez Auto Service MRC PRO (Marion Romero Construction Professionals) Instinctive Recreation Activities McNeil’s Barber Shop

Learn how to expose your business or organization to thousands of tourists Business owners and organization managers: make sure to attend the next Tourism Council meeting to learn more about the New Mexico Tourism Department’s website and how you can get exposure there.

Thousands of visitors from all over the world visit this site at www.newmexico.org. Join the Tourism Council for an informative presentation on getting your business listed, with a link to your website. Don’t miss this great chance! The Tourism Council will meet on Thursday, June 14 at 11:30 am, in the upstairs meeting room at Socorro Public Library.

Local realtor honored by Coldwell Banker Legacy Congratulations to Betty Houston of Socorro, a Chamber member and associate broker with Coldwell Banker Legacy! She’s earned membership in the company’s International Diamond Society, a level achieved by only the top 8% of all associate brokers worldwide in the the Coldwell Banker system.

“Betty Houston’s dedication to hard work and customer service lead to great success in 2011,” says Jim Gillespie, chief executive officer at Coldwell Banker. “I’m grateful to work with and learn from great leaders like [Betty] Houston.”

MEMBER SPOTLIGHT Bureau of Land Management (BLM) - New Mexico is involved in the management of our public lands with focus on issues such as energy production, fire management, animal grazing, wild horses and burros, recreation, and the National Landscape Conservation System. Visit the BLM in Socorro at 901 S. Hwy 85 or contact them by phone at 575-835-0412. Learn more on their website at www.nm.blm.gov.

William H. Hall Construction is a general contracting business owned

by William H. Hall of Socorro. Working in both commercial and residential construction, his team specializes in excavation, concrete, stucco, and more.

Hall has been operating in Socorro County since 2004, though he often works throughout the state, and has been licensed as a general contractor since 1983 (GB98 Lis. # 24015). For more information, please contact William H. Hall Construction at 575-835-3636 or via email at whhallconstruction@msn.com.

Want to clean your clothes or your car? California Plaza Self-Serve Laundromat, Dry Cleaners, and Car Wash is the place to go! Owned by Kay and Randy Torres, these joint businesses are located at 719 N. California Street. To contact the dry cleaners, please call 575-835-4406. For more information about the laundromat, please call 575-835-4405.

Cities of Gold Casino Resort is located at 10-A Cities of Gold Road in Santa Fe, New Mexico. From their 3 independent 9-hole golf courses, 40,000 square feet of fun and gaming, 16 lane bowling center, and Sports Bar Race Book & Casino, Cities of Gold has something for almost everyone. Contact General Manager Paul Aragon by email at paul_aragon@citiesofgold.com or call Cities of Gold toll free at 1-877-455-0515. Learn more on their website at www.citiesofgold.com.

The City of Socorro manages everything from Tourism information to your public utilities. Don’t forget the animal shelter, public library, Zoning Department, and the landfill! Go to the City’s website at www.socorronm. gov for information on all of the above, and more. Contact the City’s Tourism Department and Director Jennifer Gonzales by phone at 575-835-8927.

Contact the City’s main office at 575-835-0240.

Comcast Cable offers high quality internet, TV, and phone services, with helpful staff at their office right here in Socorro. To learn more about services offered, call them at 575-835-2424 or stop by the Comcast office at 223 Fisher Avenue, on the Historic Plaza. Learn more about services and packages offered on their website at www.comcast.com.

HeLynn’s Mane Attraction Beauty and Barber Shop is owned by HeLynn Benavidez-Paz, Master Barber, certified to cut men’s, women’s, and children’s hair. Ask about her 10% discount for seniors and Tech students!

Also available at HeLynn’s Mane Attraction, with a variety of practitioners: reflexology, ion therapy foot spa, manicures and pedicures, waxing, facials, ear candling, and air brush tanning. Please contact HeLynn’s by phone at 575838-4247 or stop by the shop at 316 S. California Street.

Hartwell Custom Blinds is owned and operated by George and Lucia Hartwell in Socorro. Add beauty to your windows while adding insulation and protection from the sun! Specializing in Roman shades, wooden, vertical, and cellular blinds, the Hartwells will come to your home or business. Both day and evening appointments are available. Contact Hartwell Custom Blinds by phone at 575-835-1677.

Learn more on their website at www.socorro-nm.com/hartwell.htm.

FREE RECYCLING DROP-OFF DAYS FIRST & THIRD SATURDAYS EVERY MONTH

8 • JUNE 6, 2012

El Defensor Chieftain

www.dchieftain.com

Car Show Continued from Page 1 Everything is new in the car except the engine, a 283 Chevrolet small-block V-8 that gets a maximum of 315 horsepower.

“It’s the original engine — I just tuned it up a little bit,” Chavez says. “You could take it out on the highway. This one would give you about 20 mpg.”

He smiles a little mischievously then and points to the ’77 Chevrolet Camaro, which he’s had for three years. The sports car shares the same paint job as its predecessor sitting next to it.

“That one,” he says, “that one, if you took it out for an hour, it’d probably waste you 10 gallons of gas. That’s got a 383 stroker in it.

That’s a big motor.”

Chavez speaks the truth. The Chevy 383 stroker increases the stroke of the pistons, which in turn increases airflow through the engine. This leads to more horsepower and more torque.

Along with the cost of the new engine for the Camaro, Chavez has put thousands of dollars into each of his cars.

“This one, the ’57, I probably have about $10,500 in it,” he says.

“And this one (the Camaro), the whole complete car, I probably have $13,000 in it.”

Regardless of the price, Chavez already has his next project in mind.

“I got a ’65 GTO I want to rebuild, too. That’s a nice car,” he says. “Yeah, (working on cars) is just a little side job and I like to do it, you know. It keeps you busy on the weekends.”

For local Eddie Rodarte, his white ’85 Monte Carlo with black block designs on the hood and roof is more than just a side job that keeps him busy on the weekends. Rodarte wants to get his car into a magazine.

And, so far, he’s put $20,000 into that goal. However, his love of cars started out with machines that are much simpler.

“When I was young, I was building bikes — low rider bikes,” Rodarte says. “As I got older, I started saving up for the cars.”

Rodarte likes driving around in the machine in which he’s invested so much money, but he understands the risk involved in actually driving it around, especially on the highway.

“It’s nice to have nice cars,” he says. “Like (you) put a lot of money into them, but it’s risky with an accident or whatever. But I like taking my cars out for a cruise.”

Cruising was the last thing on the mind of Kenneth Bowden at the show. A “For Sale” sign was in the window of his red ‘66 Ford Mustang.

However, business seemed to be far from most people’s minds on the plaza that day. The atmosphere was fun and festive.

Smiling little kids ran around or jumped in the car-inspired bounce house, denizens shopped at a few vendors that were selling T-shirts and jewelry, and a few couples (Chavez joined in from the sidelines) danced in front of the gazebo to the live music performed by some local musicians that alternated between mariachi and classic rock tunes. A staple at the event was the song “Low Rider” by War. Blaring over the music though were the ambulance sirens that are the finishing touch on every Viejitos Club automobile. These sirens have actually been trademarked by the club. Another tradition is for members to yell “Viejitos in the house!” whenever asked the question of just who exactly is in the house.

The club (whose name, “Viejitos,” translates to “old men”) was founded in 1985 for lovers of Bomb-type cars — cars made before 1959. Out of the four cars profiled above, only Chavez’s 1957 Chevrolet would qualify for inclusion in the club, but he has no desire to join.

“They travel around too much for me,” he says.

Traveling is indeed a major component of membership, but, on Sunday, the Viejitos were in Socorro’s house.

June 3, 2012

Rebecca Apodaca/El Defensor Chieftain

ABOVE: Gato Barboza’s 1951 Chevy Deluxe is a rolling masterpiece, inside and out.

Sky Chadde/El Defensor Chieftain

LEFT: The cars of the Viejitos Car Club were in pristine condition on the Socorro plaza on Sunday, June 3, 2012. Owners dusted, wiped and touched-up their cars before large crowds arrived.

Rebecca Apodaca/El Defensor Chieftain

ABOVE: Lowrider bikes were brought to Socorro by the Viejitos Car Club Colorado.

RIGHT: One Viejito brought along a wagon to match his car.

Your No. 1 source for news & information for more than 146 years!

El Defensor Chieftain

El Defensor Chieftain

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JUNE 6, 2012 • 9 JUNE 6, 2012 ● D1

El Defensor Chieftain

El Defensor Chieftain

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classifieds (575) 835-0520 PHONE • (575) 835-1837 FAX 200 WINKLER • SOCORRO, NM 87801 • classifieds@dchieftain.com HOURS: 8:00 A.M.-5:00 P.M. MONDAY-FRIDAY

CLASSIFIED DEADLINES

Wednesday Chieftain: Monday prior at 9:30 a.m.

Saturday Chieftain: Thursday prior at 9:30 a.m.

LEGAL DEADLINES

Wednesday Chieftain: Friday prior at 4:00 p.m.

Saturday Chieftain: Wednesday prior at 4:00 p.m.

All legals must be submitted on a disk or emailed to classifieds@dchieftain.com

CLASSIFIED LINE ADS 4 Line Minimum $8.12 plus tax • All other lines $1.93 (first insertion) Discount price for each consecutive run thereafter

The above deadlines also apply to corrections and cancellations.

Please check your ad the first issue it appears and report any errors in time for correction in the next edition. The publisher will not be responsible for more than one issue’s incorrect insertion.

Request for adjustments must be made by the advertiser within one week after final insertion. The publisher reserves the right to properly classify, edit, revise or reject any and all advertising. In case of omission or error, the publisher is liable for no damage further than the amount received for such advertisement.

0045 Special Notices

EQUAL HOUSING NOTICE

All residential real estate advertised herein is subject to the Federal Fair Housing Act and Federal Housing Act of 1968. The Fair Housing Act makes it illegal to advertise “any preference, limitation, discrimination because or race, color, religion, sex, handicap, familial status, or national origin, or intention to make any such preference, limitation, or discrimination.”

We will not knowingly accept any advertising for residential real estate that appears to or violate federal and/or state law.

1605 ApartmentsUnfrn NEW STUDIO APARTMENTS: $435 & $385 monthly includes all utilities and a basic TV. Call Patricia or Jess, 835-2678.

NOW Renting: 1 bedroom apartments. Call (575)418-1692 for information.

1 bdrm in business district area, no pets, clean. $395mo. $395DD. Tenant pays util.

(505)898-2461 cell: (505)249-0869 2BDRM in business district area, no pets, clean. $450mo. $450DD. Tenant pays util.

(505)898-2461 cell: (505)249-0869 2 bedroom apartment for rent.

Very clean & well located. Only $690 per month. Please call (954)815-3311 for info.

0050 Services

PLAY Piano. All ages. All levels.

Summer schedule. Now teaching 29 years. Anne Berkeypile.

835-4017

0075 Employment

THE NRAO has an opening for a Part-time Sales Clerk at the Very Large Array, 50 miles west of Socorro. For more information and to apply, please visit https://careers.nrao.edu/. NRAO is an Equal Opportunity Employer û M/F/D/V

1610 Bus. Prop/Rent BIG Saloon for rent. Good for dance studio or martial arts school. $650 per month. Please call (954)815-3311 for info

1605 ApartmentsUnfrn

0140 MiscEmployment

TRAILER for rent in Escondida.

3 bedroom, 1 bath, 2 car carport. Call (505)360-6039 for information 2 & 3 bdrm refurbished trailers.

W/G/S pd. Sm. fenced yards.

No pets. $375 & $450. Dep. required. 835-2396 3 bedroom, 2 bath mobile home. $400 month, $400 c/s deposit.

Tenant pays utilities.

(575)418-1139

1655 MH Lots/Spaces W A GON W H EEL M OB IL E HOME PARK: Mobile homes and lots for rent. Patricia, 835-9480.

2175 2-3-4 - plexes

One (1) Double Line Stop on 3" water system transmission line Line Pressure: Max 240 psi, Line Contents: Water, Pipe Material: PVC

HUGE Yard Sale: Appliances, housewares, plus much more.

Thurs., Fri. & Sat., from 8-11 and 3-6. 1014 East Frontage Rd.

One (1) Installation of 3" Butterfly Valve

1600 Apartments Furn

One (1) Installation of 2" Flush Hydrant

1 bedroom apartment in historic house, furnished. $325 month, $200 deposit. Call (575)838-0096.

0075 Employment

FOR RENT/LEASE: 1 Bedroom/1 Bath, Lemitar. W/D, $450 mo/$450 dep. Water pd.

Tenant pays Gas/Elec.

505-660-3748.

The Pie Town MDWCA is seeking a qualified, licensed, bonded and insured contractor with appropriate expertise and credentials to perform the following tasks/installations.

1160 GarSaleFleaMkt

NEW SCHOOL OF MINES Apartments: 1, 2, and 3 Bedroom Houses, Apts., and Mobile Home Spaces. 835-2678 TFN

CASITA for rent. Very clean, independant & well located. $280 per month. Please call (954)815-3311 for info

Request for Bid Proposal Pie Town Water Association

2 Family Estate Sale: Saturday, June 09 & Sunday, June 10 from 9-6. Magdalena, follow signs.

EFFICIANCY apartment for rent. $295 per month. Call (575)517-9880 after 10am for information.

ADOBE, 2bdrm, 1ba., DW, WD. $600 per mo. Tenants pays gas & electric. 1yr. lease. Call 835-8944

Legals

1155 Estate Sales

1605 ApartmentsUnfrn

1640 Houses, Unfurn.

1BDRM duplex apt. Lots of closet space. Walking distance to NMT & stores. 908 Ake. $450mo. $450dep. 835-2142

NEEDED part time experienced cook & part time wait person at the Crane Cafe. Pick up applications at Roadrunner Travel Center.

2 bedroom apartment for rent.

Partially furnished. Please call (575)838-0580 for more information.

FEMALE roommate wanted. A furnished two bedroom two bath adobe house near Plaza. $340.00 per month plus half electric. Nice house with hot tub and courtyard. If interested call 915-383-4709 or email mbaeza@nmt.edu No Pets

1650 MobileHome/Rent

HORSEBACK riding lessons at Pony Acres in Luis Lopez.

Openings available for new students, adults, children, $10.00.

Kathy Huff (575)418-0694.

START your own Scentsy business, $99 + tax. Call Jane at (575)835-8676 for more information.

1635 Houses, Furn

Pie Town MDWCA will supply the following:

Now Taking Applications

LOMA VISTA APARTMENTS 1212 El Camino Real, Socorro, NM 87801

575-835-3393

NM Relay (TTY) 1-800-659-8331 (voice) 1-800-659-1779 or “711” Section 8 Housing Vouchers Accepted Office Hours: M-F 9am to 4pm

1 & 2 Bedroom Apartments Available Rent based on income

0075 Employment

Concrete thrust blocking to be placed under pipe during installation Excavation and backfill of work area including a backhoe present during installation; A dry work area (gravel the trench base, trash pumps, etc.); Traffic control personnel, flags, barricades, cones as needed; Provide suitable access from public roadway to point of work; Protection and security of equipment while on site; All valve boxes and covers, extension rods, valve keys, etc.;

1665 Commercial for Rent 1675 Rentals to Share 1680 Rooms 1690 Townhouses/Condos for Rent 1695 Vacation/TS Rent 1700 Wanted to Rent 1705 RV Space Rentals 2090 Los Lunas 2095 Isleta 2100 Bosque Farms 2105 Rio Communities 2110 Belen 2180 Farms/Ranches 2185 Homes, Misc.

2190 Homes Wanted 2195 Commercial for Sale 2200 Lot/ Acreage 2215 Mobile Homes 2230 Modular Homes 2245 Out-of-Town R.E. 2250 Out-of-State R.E. 2260 R.E. Contracts 2265 R.E. Investments 2280 R. E. Wanted 2285 Townhomes 3000 Autos for sale 3005 Auto Parts & Access.

3010 Autos Wanted 3030 Classic Specialty 3035 FourWheelDrives 3040 Motorcycles 3045 Spts Util Vehicles 3050 Tires/Wheels 3055 TracFarm Implmts 3060 Trucks 3070 Trailers 3075 Vans 4000 Boat-MarineEqpt 4005 Camper Trailers 4010 Jet Skis 4015 Off - RoadVehicles 4025 Recreational Veh. 4030 RV Eqpt/ Supply 4040 Travel Trailers

Legals

Legals

Legals

Legals

KEVIN R. SWEAZEA, District Judge of the Seventh Judicial District Court of the State of New Mexico, and the Seal of the District Court of Socorro County, this 22nd day of February, 2012.

09’ W., a distance of 2228.6 feet (calculated from US GLO Plats of Section 2, T. 2S., R 1 W., dated June 30, 1914 and August 30, 1900); thence, N. 71deg 55’ E., a distance of 175.00 feet to corner 2, the NE corner; thence S. 19deg 23’ E., a distance of 175.00 feet to corner 3, the SE corner; thence, S. 71deg 55’ W., a distance of 175.00 feet to corner 4, the SW corner, a point on the east "use" line of Chambon Road; thence, N. 19deg 23’ W., a distance of 175.00 feet along the east "use" line of Chambon Road to corner 1, the place of beginning.

along said Highway, a distance of 1013.77 feet to the SE corner; Thence leaving said Highway and proceeding S 87deg 37’38" W, a distance of 489.21 feet to the SW corner; Thence N 01deg 07’31" W, a distance of 953.67 feet to the point of beginning. Said Parcel A contains 8.488 acres, more or less.

Location: U.S. Hwy 60, 3 miles west of Pie Town, NM, 1⁄4 mile north of highway.

Bid Closing Date: Friday, June 8th, 2012 Job Commencement and Completion: Prior to August 1st, 2012 Pre-Bid site visit with operator REQUIRED. Interested and qualified contractors should contact Jay Carroll (operator) @ (575) 772-2727 Published on May 16, 23, 30 and June 06, 2012 STATE OF NEW MEXICO COUNTY OF SOCORRO SEVENTH JUDICIAL DISTRICT No. D725-CV-2011-00134 THE BANK OF NEW YORK MELLON fka The Bank of New York, as Trustee for the Certificateholders of the CWABS Inc., AssetBacked Certificates, Series 2006-17, Plaintiff, vs.

JO E. WILLIAMS, and, if married, JOHN DOE A (true name unknown), her spouse; CONNIE E. WILLIAMS, and, if married, JOHN DOE B (true name unknown), her spouse; MORTGAGE ELECTRONIC REGISTRATION SYSTEMS, INC., as nominee, Defendants.

NOTICE OF PENDENCY OF SUIT

VIRGINIA VIVIAN CLERK OF THE DISTRICT COURT

By Rachael Gonzales Deputy Brandy N. Shock, Legal Assistant 4501 Indian School Rd. NE, Suite 101 Albuquerque, NM 87110 Phone 505-254-7767 Fax 505-254-4706 Published on June 06, 13 and 20, 2012 STATE OF NEW MEXICO COUNTY OF SOCORRO SEVENTH JUDICIAL DISTRICT No. D-725-CV-2012-00012 CITIMORTGAGE, INC., successor by merger to First Nationwide Mortgage Corporation, Plaintiff, vs.

JAMES E. GRAY, if living; If deceased, THE ESTATE OF JAMES E. GRAY, Deceased; THE UNKNOWN HEIRS, DEVISEES AND LEGATEES OF JAMES E. GRAY, Deceased; LOCO CREDIT UNION; CAVALRY INVESTMENTS, LLC; TAXATION and REVENUE DEPARTMENT of the STATE of NEW MEXICO, Defendants.

NOTICE OF PENDENCY OF SUIT

TO: Defendant(s) Jo E. Williams, and if married, John Doe A (true name unknown), possible spouse of Jo E. Williams

TO: Defendant(s) James E. Gray, if living; if deceased, The Estate of James E. Gray, Deceased and The Unknown Heirs, Devisees and Legatees of James E. Gray, Deceased

You are hereby notified that the above-named Plaintiff has filed a civil action against you in the above-entitled Court and cause, the general object thereof being to foreclose a mortgage on property located at 632 Gianera Street, in the City of Socorro, New Mexico, more particularly described as:

You are hereby notified that the above-named Plaintiff has filed a civil action against you in the above-entitled Court and cause, the general object thereof being to foreclose a mortgage on property located at 72 Chambon Road, in the City of Lemitar, New Mexico, more particularly described as:

LOT NUMBERED TWENTY FIVE (25) OF THE DELOLA ESTATES, A SUBDIVISION OF AND TO THE CITY OF SOCORRO COUNTY, NEW MEXICO.

A tract of land situate in the NW 1⁄4 of Section 2, Township 2 South, Range 1 West, NMPM, at Lemitar, Socorro County, New Mexico, being part of Tract 1 of those certain tracts of land deeded to Sam R. Vanlandingham and Bob Vanlandingham by W. C. and Vivian Sharp on May 27, 1977 (recorded in the Office of the County Clerk of Socorro, New Mexico, V. 335, P. 571-572), also being designated as part of Small Holding Claim No. 1732, further designated as part of Tracts 46B and 48 of MRGCD Map 153, bounded on the east and south by land now or formerly standing in the names of Sam R. Vanlandingham and Bob Vanlandingham, bounded on the west by the east "use" line of Chambon Road, bounded on the north by land now or formerly standing in the names of Niels T. and Kirsten Michelsen, and more particularly described as follows, to-wit:

That unless you respond to the Complaint within 30 days of completion of publication of this Notice, judgment by default will be entered against you.

Name, address, and phone number of Plaintiff’s attorney: Susan C. Little & Associates, P.A., 4501 Indian School NE, Suite 101, Post Office Box 3509, Albuquerque, NM 87190-3509, 505-254-7767.

W ITNESS the Honorable

MAINTENANCE TOOLS!

Including Including leaf leaf blowers, blowers, lawn lawn mowers mowers and and weedwackers! weedwackers!

Remember to check El Defensor Chieftain’s classifieds every Wednesday & Saturday for the best deals!

We even post them online at www.dchieftain.com

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All residential real estate advertised herein is subject to the Federal Fair Housing Act and the State of New Mexico’s Human Rights Act. The Fair Housing Act makes it illegal to advertise “any preference, limitation, discrimination because of race, color, religion, sex, handicap, familial status, or national origin, or intention to make any such preference, limitation, or discrimination.” In addition to the protections noted above, the State of New Mexico’s Human Right’s Act prohibits discrimination based on physical or mental handicap. We will not knowingly accept any advertising for residential real estate that appears to or violate federal and/or the state law.

Provide any necessary environmental containment and cleanup of debris resulting from the services rendered; Valve Cans, Valve Vaults and Backfill of work area

OUT OUR GREAT DEALS CHECK

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CLASSIFICATIONS 0000 Legals - Government 0001 Legals - Non-Government 0012 Car Pooling 0013 Day Care Services 0021 House Sitting 0023 In - Home Care 0025 Lovelines 0030 Lost & Found 0045 Special Notices 0050 Service 0060 Schools 0065 Misc. Instruction 0140 Employment 0210 Work at Home 0215 Job Seekers 0250 BusinessOppty's 0260 Loans 1000 Antiques 1005 Appliances 1015 Auctions 1020 Baby/Child Items 1035 BuildingMaterials 1060 Computers 1065 Collectibles 1140 Firewood, Fuel 1150 Furniture 1155 Estate Sales 1160 GarSaleFleaMkt 1165 GardenLndscpng 1190 MerchandiseMisc 1200 PortableBuildings 1235 Wanted to Buy 1300 Pets & Supplies 1325 Pets Misc.

1345 Pet Memoriam 1365 Livestock Misc.

1385 Hay, Feed, Grain 1600 Apartments Furn 1605 ApartmentsUnfrn 1610 Bus. Prop/Rent 1620 2-3-4 plexes/Rent 1635 Houses, Furn 1640 Houses, Unfurn.

1650 Mobile Homes for Rent 1655 MH Lots/Spaces

beginning at corner 1, the NW corner, a point on the east "use" line of Chambon Road, being the NW corner of Tract 1 of the aforementioned land deeded to Sam R. Vanlandingham and Bob Vanlandingham, whence the US GLO brass cap monument marking corner 3 (NE corner) of SHC 1697, Tract 1, bears N. 42deg 35’ 15" E., a distance of 743.63 feet; also whence the NW corner of Section 2, T. 2S., R. 1W., NMPM bears N. 35deg

Containing 0.703 acres, more or less, and all provements, including, but not limited to, the manufactured home attached thereto and more particularly described as a 2002 Fleetwood DW, VINTXFL166BA07798 AV12.

That unless you respond to the Complaint within 30 days of completion of publication of this Notice, judgment by default will be entered against you.

Name, address, and phone number of Plaintiff’s attorney: Susan C. Little & Associates, P.A., 4501 Indian School NE, Suite 101, Post Office Box 3509, Albuquerque, NM 87190-3509, 505-254-7767.

WITNESS the Honorable KEVIN R. SWEAZEA, District Judge of the Seventh Judicial District Court of the State of New Mexico, and the Seal of the District Court of Socorro County, this 15th day of May, 2012.

VIRGINIA VIVIAN CLERK OF THE DISTRICT COURT

By Virginia Vivian Deputy Published on May 23, 30 and June 02, 2012 STATE OF NEW MEXICO COUNTY OF CATRON SEVENTH JUDICIAL DISTRICT No. D-728-CV-2012-00002 WELLS FARGO BANK, NA, SUCCESSOR BY MERGER TO WACHOVIA BANK, NA, Plaintiff, v.

JENNIFER LINDSEY, Defendant(s).

NOTICE OF SALE NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that the undersigned Special Master will on June 18, 2012 at 1:00 PM, front enterance of the Catron County Courthouse, 101 Main Street, Reserve, New Mexico, sell and convey to the highest bidder for cash all the right, title, and interest of the above-named defendants in and to the following described real estate located in said County and State: A parcel of land within the SW1⁄4 SW1⁄4 Section 28 and the NW1⁄4 NW1⁄4 Section 33, T2N, R16W, NMPM, Catron County, New Mexico, being more particularly described as follows: Beginning at a Brass Cap monument marking the corner common to Sections 28, 29, 32 and 33 T2N, R16W,NMPM; Thence N 01deg 13’ 11" E a distance of 402.58 feet to the north corner and point on the SW line of NM Highway 601; Thence S 30deg 37’55" E, along said Highway, a distance of 74.40 feet; Thence along said Highway on the arc of a curve to the right, having a central angle of 12deg 11’48", a radius of 1603.39 feet, a length of 341.32 feet and a chord bearing S 24deg 32’01" E, a distance of 340.67 feet; Thence S 18deg 26’07" E,

The address of the real property is State Road 601, Quemado, NM 87829. Plaintiff does not represent or warrant that the stated street address is the street address of the described property; if the street address does not match the legal description, then the property being sold herein is the property more particularly described above, not the property located at the street address; any prospective purchaser at the sale is given notice that it should verify the location and address of the property being sold. Said sale will be made pursuant to the judgment entered on April 2, 2012 in the above entitled and numbered cause, which was a suit to foreclose a mortgage held by the above Plaintiff and wherein Plaintiff was adjudged to have a lien against the above-described real estate in the sum of $79,574.64 plus interest from February 15, 2012 to the date of sale at the rate of 6.500% per annum, the costs of sale, including the Special Master’s fee, publication costs, and Plaintiff’s costs expended for taxes, insurance, and keeping the property in good repair. Plaintiff has the right to bid at such sale and submit its bid verbally or in writing. The Plaintiff may apply all or any part of its judgment to the purchase price in lieu of cash.

At the date and time stated above, the Special Master may postpone the sale to such later date and time as the Special Master may specify.

NOTICE IS FURTHER GIVEN that this sale may be subject to a bankruptcy filing, a pay off, a reinstatement or any other condition that would cause the cancellation of this sale. Further, if any of these conditions exist, at the time of sale, this sale will be null and void, the successful bidder’s funds shall be returned, and the Special Master and the mortgagee giving this notice shall not be liable to the successful bidder for any damages.

NOTICE IS FURTHER GIVEN that the real property and improvements concerned with herein will be sold subject to any and all patent reservations, easements, all recorded and unrecorded liens not foreclosed herein, and all recorded and unrecorded special assessments and taxes that may be due.

Plaintiff and its attorneys disclaim all responsibility for, and the purchaser at the sale takes the property subject to, the valuation of the property by the County Assessor as real or personal property, affixture of any mobile or manufactured home to the land, deactivation of title to a mobile or manufactured home on the property, if any, environmental contamination on the property, if any, and zoning violations concerning the property, if any.

NOTICE IS FURTHER GIVEN that the purchaser at such sale shall take title to the abovedescribed real property subject to rights of redemption. _______________ Jeffrey Lake Special Master Southwest Support Group 20 First Plaza NW, Suite #20 Albuquerque, NM 87102 NM12-00078_FC01 Published on May 23, 30 and June 06 and 13, 2012

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sports Koesters wins Open’s Senior Pro title El Defensor Chieftain

10 • JUNE 6, 2012

www.dchieftain.com

Great weather and a great second round played a part

By Jonathan Miller El Defensor Chieftain Reporter

jmiller@dchieftain.com

Socorro The combination of near perfect golf weather and a whirlwind second round paved the way for Dan Koesters to win his second consecutive Seniors Professional division championship at the Socorro Open on Tuesday at the New Mexico Tech Golf Course.

Koesters, the head pro at the New Mexico State Golf Course, rebounded from a nearly disastrous start to come back and shoot a tournament best 67 on day two of the tourney, giving him a total score of 137.

Koesters went into Tuesday’s championship round just one shot off of the lead, but Koesters hit his first two shots from the first tee box out of bounds. He rebounded in good fashion, though, and at the end of the day he finished three strokes ahead of second place finisher Mark Pelletier.

Pellitier was alone atop the leaderboard after Monday’s round when he shot a four-under-par 69, but his score of 71 on Tuesday wasn’t quite enough to keep pace with the 2011 open winner.

“I like this golf course,” Koesters said. “It’s fun, the greens are perfect, and we got two days of absolutely the best weather Socorro has ever seen.”

Aside from the favorable weather conditions, Koesters had with him the advantage of experience. He’s played the course at Tech several times, and knows that it demands a specific style of golf.

“You have to play a lot of shots,” he said. “That’s what makes this golf course super challenging. You have to figure out how you’re going to play it and you stick to your game plan.”

Behind Koesters in first and Pelletier in second place, Tom Storey finished in third with a total score of 141, and Carlton Blewett came in fourth with a two-round total of 143. Socorro’s Russ Moore finished the tourney with scores of 72 and 80, giving

2012 Socorro Open runner-up Mark Pelletier chips from the rough at the second hole at New Mexico Tech Golf Course on Tuesday morning. him a tournament total of 152.

Competitors in the Seniors Amateur division also competed on Monday and Tuesday. Bill Boykin grabbed first place in Flight 1 with a tournament total of 141, while in Flight 2, David Wilson finished two strokes ahead of Jim Preussner to earn the victory.

Flight 3 was all but dominated by Joe Montoya, as he finished 12 strokes ahead of the closest competitor with a 15 under par total of 129.

The 2012 Socorro Open will continue today at 9 a.m. when the Open Pro-Am gets under way, and the professional and amateur championships will run from Thursday to Saturday.

Photos by Jonathan Miller/El Defensor Chieftain

2102 Socorro Open Seniors Professional Champion Dan Koesters puts from the green on the second hole at New Mexico Tech Golf Course on Tuesday morning. Koesters won his second consecutive championship.

Socorro native wins NM Ms. Fitness title Renee Gallegos says goal setting is key to her success

By Lindsey Padilla

El Defensor Chieftain Reporter

lpadilla@dchieftain.com

Albuquerque Ms. Fitness New Mexico traces her athletic roots back to her hometown in Socorro.

Renee Gallegos, 27, earned the title of Ms. Fitness New Mexico 2012 last month, prevailing over seven other competitors.

Gallegos had competed for the title before, but didn’t win. Despite those defeats, she made it a goal to someday win, and she attributes her victory this year to making it her goal.

“When you want to start anything, goals are a good way to start staying focus on what you believe in. Anything is possible if you put your mind to it,” Gallegos said.

While Gallegos has competed in similar events before, this was the first fitness competition where she had to dance, tumble, move, be flexible and prove herself through various combinations of several other areas.

In June 2009, she competed for Fitness Universe and took sixth place for the bikini competition in Miami. Then, in November, she competed in the nationals competition in Las Vegas, Nev. and was runner up in bikini.

Gallegos grew up and lived in Socorro for 18 years, She graduated from Socorro High School and participated in track and basketball. She always strived to be athletic, set goals and have a competitive edge. Throughout her younger years, her mentors were Paula and Johnnie Taylor Trujillo, who helped train, coach and choreograph her routines.

Gallegos has been a personal fitness trainer for six years and now works at Midtown Sports and Wellness in Albuquerque. She trains everyone to be engaged and involved in physical routines.

Last year, one of the classes she taught was the “biggest winner class,” in which she worked with Presbyterian ambulance staff. She currently teaches fitness classes such as cardiorespiratory and muscular fitness, weight management and power speed and agility training. She focuses her routines on muscle strength and one-on-one training with individuals, and encourages all her students to have a positive attitude, and their hard work will boost confidence and success.

Gallegos trains, teaches and demonstrates determination and discipline to all age groups through various activities and rigorous workouts.

She also teaches endurance and encourages everyone they have what it takes to be in their

Photos courtesy Johnnie Trujillo

ABOVE: Socorro High School graduate Renee Gallegos won the 2012 Ms. Fitness New Mexico competition last month. Gallegos now lives in Albuquerque and works at Midtown Sports and Wellness Center.

RIGHT: Gallegos shows what she’s capable of during last month’s competition.

best shape.

Gallegos also recommends everyone to have fun while staying active. She works with all ages of individuals who are eager to learn how to stay fit and how to be goal orientated. No matter how young or old, Gallegos makes sure everyone continues to stay positive.

The youngest person she trains is 4-yearsold, and the oldest 80-yearsold. Gallegos focuses her lessons on fulfilling fitness needs of every individual.

“I like to share my knowledge, so I can be a positive role model,” Gallegos said.

Throughout her life, Gallegos learned how to be a goal setter, and worked towards sustainability and accountability. She is currently pursuing a bachelor’s degree in physical education at the University of New Mexico. In taking classes for the degree, she is staying focused on child obesity. She has learned that by looking at the younger generation, all children need to lead a better and healthier lifestyle.

“The big thing I strive to for clients and myself is to be a goal setter,” Gallegos said.

BBQ (Amateur) Contestants & Arts/Crafts Vendors Needed: Call 505-352-3596 or email: vcchamber@loslunasnm.gov