2025 August enchantment by New Mexico Rural Electric Cooperatives

The Voice of New Mexico’s Rural Electric Cooperatives

enchantment

LEADERS in the Making

Youth Tour inspires our next generation of leaders during a weeklong trip to Washington, D.C. Page 14

Forty students from around New Mexico traveled to Washington, D.C., as part of the National Rural Electric Cooperative Association’s Youth Tour.

Aug. 1, 2025 • Vol. 77, No. 7

USPS 175-880 • ISSN 0046-1946

enchantment (ISSN 0046-1946) is published 10 times a year—every month except June and December—by the New Mexico Rural Electric Cooperative Association, 614 Don Gaspar Ave., Santa Fe, NM 87505. enchantment provides reliable, helpful information on rural living and energy use to electric cooperative members and customers.

More than 113,000 families and businesses receive enchantment magazine as electric cooperative members. Nonmember subscriptions are available at $12 a year or $18 for two years, payable to NMRECA. Allow four to eight weeks for first delivery.

PERIODICAL POSTAGE paid at Santa Fe, NM 875019998 and additional mailing offices.

CHANGE OF ADDRESS: Postmaster, please send address changes to 614 Don Gaspar Ave., Santa Fe, NM 87505-4428. Readers who receive the publication through their electric cooperative membership should report address changes to their local electric cooperative office.

THE NEW MEXICO RURAL ELECTRIC COOPERATIVE ASSOCIATION provides legislative and educational services to the cooperatives that are members of the association and deliver electric power to New Mexico’s rural areas and small communities. The mission of the New Mexico Rural Electric Cooperative Association is to strengthen, support, unify and represent cooperative member interests at the local, state and national levels. Each cooperative has a representative on the association’s board of directors, which controls the editorial content and advertising policy of enchantment through its Publications Committee.

OFFICERS OF THE BOARD OF DIRECTORS

Tim Morrow, President, Springer Electric Co-op, Springer; Charles G. Wagner, Vice President, Western Farmers Electric Co-op, Anadarko, Oklahoma; Preston Stone, Secretary-Treasurer, Otero County Electric Co-op, Cloudcroft.

BOARD OF DIRECTORS

Rusty Gwynne, Central Valley Electric Co-op, Artesia; Bill King, Central NM Electric Co-op, Mountainair; Chris Martinez, Columbus Electric Co-op, Deming; Keith Gottlieb, Continental Divide Electric Co-op, Grants; Antonio Sanchez, Farmers’ Electric Co-op, Clovis; Manny Bustos, Jemez Mountains Electric, Española; Bobby Ferris, Lea County Electric Co-op, Lovington; James Ortiz, Mora-San Miguel Electric Cooperative, Mora; Thomas G. Rivas, Northern Río Arriba Electric Co-op, Chama; Eric Segovia, Roosevelt County Electric Co-op, Portales; Raymond Ruffini, Sierra Electric Co-op, Elephant Butte; Manny Gonzales, Socorro Electric Cooperative; Joe Reeser, Southwestern Electric Co-op, Clayton; Wayne Connell, Tri-State G&T Association, Westminster, Colorado.

NEW MEXICO RURAL ELECTRIC COOPERATIVE ASSOCIATION

614 Don Gaspar Ave. Phone: 505-982-4671 Santa Fe, NM 87505 Fax: 505-982-0153 nmelectric.coop enchantment.coop Vince Martinez, CEO Tom Condit, Communications Manager

DISPLAY ADVERTISING: Rates available upon request. Co-op members and New Mexico display advertisers, email Shaylyn at enchantmentads@ nmelectric.coop or call 505-252-2540. National representative: American MainStreet Publications, 800-626-1181.

Advertisements in enchantment are paid solicitations and are not endorsed by the publisher or the electric cooperatives that are members of the New Mexico Rural Electric Cooperative Association. PRODUCT SATISFACTION AND DELIVERY RESPONSIBILITY LIE SOLELY WITH THE ADVERTISER.

enchantment photomonthlywinner

Take a photo of you holding YOUR MAGAZINE AND WIN!

Congratulations to Eddie Florez, a member of Central Valley Electric Cooperative. Eddie enjoyed his copy of the Enchantment magazine while awaiting a tour of the Colosseum in Rome, Italy.

Eddie wins $20!

Take a photo of yourself or someone else with the magazine and email it with a few words about the photo. Include your name, mailing address and co-op name.

One lucky member will win $20. Submitting your photo(s) gives us permission to publish or post the photo(s) in enchantment, on Facebook and in other media outlets.

Email tcondit@nmelectric.coop.

Your Co-op’s Page

What is a Yute? Excuse me, Youths!

By Vince Martinez, NMRECA CEO

I am pleased to report that the 2025 Youth Tour was a great success. Our participants had a wonderful time, were very wellbehaved, and came home tired but happy.

On Youth Tour, students from around the state gather in Santa Fe before heading to Washington, D.C., for a week where they meet our congressional representatives, witness democracy in action and learn about our country’s history.

After meeting this year’s participants on the first day in Santa Fe, I wasn’t surprised to hear they were well-behaved and had a great time in Washington, D.C.

I found the youth to be polite, engaged and well-mannered. These kids were a shining example that common courtesy and decency are still alive and well in our society, despite what we sometimes see from others.

The qualities I observed in the young people from this year’s Youth Tour and past tours, coupled with the feedback I received from chaperones, give me great confidence in the future of our cooperatives and our state. As the leadership of our cooperatives— including myself—ages, it is imperative that Youth Tour alumni consider getting more involved in their communities and cooperatives.

Our member cooperatives and association staff are proud of the Youth Tour program and encourage as many of our youth as possible to participate in future tours of the nation’s capital.

Read about the fun and interesting things the 40 participants experienced during their week in our nation’s capital on Page 14.

Forty students from around New Mexico represented the state as part of the National Rural Electric Cooperative Association’s Youth Tour.

Cool Cool Cool

Cool Savings

By Miranda Boutelle

Q: What are some ways I can improve the efficiency of my refrigerator and freezer?

A: When exploring ways to be more efficient with refrigerators and freezers, we often find ourselves stuck between convenience and conserving energy. While you can upgrade to newer equipment, care and equipment habits can be just as important to saving energy.

The U.S. Department of Energy explains what to look for in existing equipment and new appliances. In general, the larger the refrigerator, the more energy it uses. The most efficient models are typically 16 to 20 cubic feet. Models with the freezer on top tend to use less energy than bottom freezers or side-by-side units. A refrigerator 15 years or older uses about 35% more energy than an Energy Star-certified model.

Let’s explore some tips to keep your refrigerator running efficiently.

Keep it organized. One of the biggest issues with refrigerator energy use is keeping the door open. An organized fridge makes food items easier to find, minimizing open-door time and keeping cold air inside. Place items in the same spots so they are easier and faster to find. I tell my children to take a quick look inside at the options and close the door while they are deciding what to eat.

Keep it clean. Regularly cleaning the gasket—a flexible strip around the perimeter of the fridge door—ensures a tight seal between the door and the unit to keep cold air inside. If the gasket does not seal tightly, it should be replaced.

Removing and cleaning the vent at the bottom of the unit can help airflow. For the coils at the back, use an extended cleaning brush instead of moving the fridge and risking injury.

Keep food safety in mind. The Department of Energy recommends setting the refrigerator temperature between 35 and 38 degrees and the freezer at zero degrees.

If you have a second refrigerator or freezer, here are some things that can help you save energy.

Do you need it plugged in year-round? Perhaps you can keep it empty and unplugged for part of the year. Maybe you only really need it during the holiday season. Unplugging it for the months you aren’t using it saves energy, and you still have it as a backup when you need it.

Empty it before restocking. If you are a hunter or buy meat in bulk, this allows you to avoid food waste and unplug the extra appliance when it is not needed.

If possible, consider the location. Keeping the second fridge or freezer in a cool basement versus a hot garage requires less energy.

Embracing simple cleaning and food storage habits can help you be more efficient with your in-home refrigeration.

This content was originally created by Efficiency Services Group LLC under contract with NRECA. NRECA retains ownership of this content. NRECA does not endorse Efficiency Services Group, its views herein expressed, nor any products or services it offers.

Miranda Boutelle has more than 20 years of experience helping people save energy. She has worked on energyefficiency projects from the Midwest to the West Coast. Today, Miranda is chief operating officer at Efficiency Services Group in Oregon, a cooperatively owned energyefficiency company.

Keep your refrigerator gaskets clean to ensure a tight seal around the door. PHOTO BY MARK GILLILAND

Stay Safe While College Bound

Heading off to college can be unsettling and exciting. Students and parents worry about succeeding in class, making new friends and keeping safe.

Here are some steps you can take to make sure the dorm room or apartment is up-to-snuff when it comes to electrical safety:

• Do not overload extension cords, power strips or outlets.

• Use power strips with over-current protection. This will shut power off automatically if too much current is being drawn.

• Watch out for outlets that get too hot to touch. If an electrical outlet becomes so hot you cannot leave your hand on it, there is potential for a fire. Unplug everything from the outlet and notify the landlord or dorm officials immediately.

• Extension cords are for temporary situations only. Extension cords should not be used as a long-term solution when you need another outlet.

• Do not staple extension cords. You might damage the cord’s insulation and potentially expose a wire, increasing the possibility of sparking.

• Look for the UL mark on any electrical product you use. The UL mark

Questions to Stay Safe

Here are some questions to ask those in charge of the dorms to make sure you are properly prepared for a fire:

X How many fires have occurred on campus in the past few years?

X Does every room have a smoke alarm?

X Are the residence halls equipped with an automatic fire sprinkler system?

X How much fire prevention training do the staff and resident assistants receive?

X How many false alarms have occurred in the residence halls?

X How often are fire drills conducted?

X What is the school’s disciplinary policy against students who cause false alarms or fail to evacuate when an alarm sounds?

tells you that your appliance, cord or device has met Underwriters Laboratories’ rigorous safety requirements.

• Never remove a grounding pin. If you remove the pin in order to plug a threeprong plug into a two-prong outlet, you are removing important protection and exposing yourself to a tremendous shock hazard.

• If you are lighting with halogen lamps, make sure they meet updated requirements. All halogen lamps must be designed with a mesh guard that prevents contact with the bulb and an automatic tip-over switch.

• If your student will be cooking, look for UL-listed appliances that feature automatic shut-off buttons. This means the appliance will lessen the chance of leaving something brewing or cooking all day.

• Never plug more than one highwattage appliance into a single outlet.

• Make sure appliance cords are neither frayed nor cracked. If they are, get them repaired by a professional.

• Have a UL-listed fire extinguisher in the dorm room or apartment and know how to use it.

ADOBE STOCK PHOTO BY CHERRYANDBEES

Past Novae, Future Revelations

As it was last month, planetary activity in our evening skies throughout August remains fairly low.

Mars sets around the end of dusk throughout the entire month, and although it is not at all difficult to see, it has distinctly faded since it was closer to Earth earlier this year. Saturn, meanwhile, rises in the east at around the same time and is easily viewed throughout the later evening hours and into the morning. It is at its highest above the horizon one to two hours before the beginning of dawn.

The two brightest planets, Venus and Jupiter, will also put on a show during the morning August skies, including a close conjunction between the two of them Tuesday, Aug. 12. Mercury is visible low in the east during dawn beginning around midmonth, which lasts for a couple of weeks. The thin crescent moon passes through this overall gathering on the mornings of Aug. 20 and 21.

The annual Perseid meteor shower peaks the morning of Wednesday, Aug. 13. Ordinarily, the Perseids can produce up to 60 or more meteors per hour. This year, unfortunately, the bright

gibbous moon—which was full Aug. 9—will steal part of the show.

Fifty years ago in late August 1975, a bright nova—or exploding star—appeared in the constellation Cygnus, the swan, and briefly appeared about as bright as the North Star, Polaris. There has not been a nova in our skies this bright since then, although dimmer ones have appeared from time to time.

Recently two novae, dimly visible to the unaided eye, appeared—one in the constellation Lupus, west of Scorpius, and the other in the constellation Vela and visible from the southern hemisphere. Both will likely have faded by now.

The Vera C. Rubin Observatory in northern Chile, which has been under construction for the past several years, took its first astronomical images in May, which were released the following month.

Later this year, when it becomes fully operational, Rubin will conduct a 10-year-long Legacy Survey of Space and Time that will examine the entire sky in more depth and detail than ever before, with discoveries that will likely revolutionize much of our understanding of the universe. e

An early image from the Vera C. Rubin Observatory in Chile was released in June. This image covers part of the nearby cluster of galaxies in the constellation Virgo and shows many foreground stars and background galaxies. PHOTO COURTESY OF NATIONAL SCIENCE FOUNDATION/ DEPARTMENT OF ENERGY/VERA C. RUBIN OBSERVATORY

Always Be Ready for

STORMS

Take these steps to prepare for power outages

Summer storm season is here again. Prepare for weather by creating a plan and gathering necessary items before the first storm hits.

The Federal Emergency Management Agency’s ready.gov website offers a comprehensive list that, if followed, will set you and your household up for a healthier and more comfortable experience should winter storms cause power outages, short or extended. Take inventory now of items you need that rely on electricity. Make backup plans, including relocation plans, if you have medical equipment or assistive technology devices that are dependent on power for life-sustaining purposes.

Here’s a list of emergency preparedness tips from FEMA:

• Keep at least a five-day supply of water and ready-to-eat foods.

• Install battery-powered smoke detectors and carbon monoxide detectors in central locations on every floor of your home and outside of bedrooms. Electric detectors with battery backup are also acceptable.

• Keep cellphones and any battery-powered devices charged, and make sure you have backup charging methods, such as a car charger or portable power bank.

• Keep your car’s gas tank full. If you use your car to charge devices, do not leave the car running in a garage, partly closed space or near a home to avoid carbon monoxide poisoning.

• During a power outage, only use flashlights to light your home. Avoid using candles, as they could be a fire hazard.

• Turn off or disconnect appliances and other equipment to protect them from quick power surges. Whenever possible, use surge protectors.

• Avoid carbon monoxide poisoning. Generators, camp stoves and charcoal grills should always be used outdoors and at least 20 feet away from windows. Never use a gas stovetop or oven to heat your home. Follow manufacturer instructions.

• Check on your neighbors. Older adults and young children are especially vulnerable to extreme temperatures.

• Keep perishable food cold to avoid illness. Keep a thermometer in your refrigerator and freezer to monitor the temperature. When in doubt, throw it out. Throw away any food that has been exposed to temperatures 40 degrees or higher for two hours or more, or that has an unusual odor, color or texture.

• If the power is out for more than a day, discard any medication that should be refrigerated, unless the drug’s label says otherwise.

• Make sure your family has an emergency plan and practices it often, including how to find updates, alerts, warnings, and where you would go if you and your family need to evacuate.

• Sign up for emergency alerts at ready.gov/alerts. Download the mobile FEMA app to get preparedness strategies, real-time weather and emergency alerts.

Get Your Preparedness Guide

For more information about disaster preparedness of all types, including power outages, download FEMA’s Are You Ready? Guide at tinyurl.com/3bpw3dc3.

This comprehensive guide provides detailed information on how best to prepare families and communities for disasters of all kinds. Learn general disaster preparedness tips and best practices to inform your planning. e

Unplug and Play

AI-GENERATED ILLUSTRATION BY FREEPIK/BRANDON POMRENKE

Use family fun to teach kids the power of energy conservation

By Drew Woolley

Everyone likes finding ways to save on their energy bill. But watching the thermostat like a hawk, turning off lights behind everyone in the house and sweating an investment in energy-efficient appliances isn’t much fun, especially when you’re trying to get the kids to play along. Fortunately, electric cooperatives have been working to make energy savings more approachable for many years.

After decades of educating kids of all

ages, cooperatives have learned a few helpful tricks to resonate with younger audiences. Hands-on activities, such as asking kids to look through their backpacks for electronic devices and calculating how much energy they use, can drive home just how much electricity they use in their daily lives. Meanwhile, avoiding technical terms like “energy efficiency” can help saving energy feel less daunting and more fun.

Even so, some of the most effective ways to drive home the importance of energy conservation are the routine reminders members may have heard from their parents growing up. Luckily, there are still plenty of ways to teach your kids the importance of energy conservation while having fun as a family.

Here are some fun ways to encourage energy efficiency and conservation at home: Cook a family-powered dinner. Have the whole family help cook dinner with one rule: No electricity is allowed. Avoid using major kitchen appliances like electric ovens, blenders, mixers or

microwaves to teach kids about common ways your family uses electricity during peak demand times. Top it all off with some no-bake treats.

Take turns on power patrol. Every child enjoys being in charge from time to time. Take turns letting everyone in your family be responsible for enforcing good energy habits around the house for a week. You can even set up a point system for every time they notice a light left on in an empty room, unplug unused electronics chargers or adjust the thermostat to a more efficient setting. Offer prizes and rewards to encourage them to be mindful of energy use every day.

Build an energy-efficient dream home. Encourage everyone to design their dream home with energy-saving features in mind. This is a great way to introduce ideas like solar panels, efficient appliances and sustainable building materials. Break out the crayons and art supplies to bring their homes to life, or use household crafts to build models.

Play energy-saving bingo. Make bingo cards with squares for energysaving actions like using natural light instead of lamps or ceiling lights, unplugging devices, turning off lights and cooling off the temperature by opening a window. Kids can cross out each square as they complete each task, and the first one to bingo gets a prize.

Have power-free fun. Designate one night a week as power-free time when everyone in the family turns off phones, computers and TVs together. Play a board game, spend time reading your favorite books or enjoy some outdoor activities technology-free. Save on your electric bill, teach the importance of reducing energy use during peak periods and get some valuable family time all at once.

Make an energy-saving scavenger hunt. Make up a list of energy-saving practices, such as updating light fixtures with LED bulbs, turning off lights in empty rooms and unplugging

unused devices. Challenge your kids to search the house and check off an example of each scavenger hunt item. You can celebrate with small prizes or treats for each energy-efficient discovery they make along the way.

Create energy-efficient art. Kids enjoy seeing their artwork displayed, so put those creative skills to work on energy-efficient reminders around the house. Spend arts and crafts time teaching your kids about some of the steps they can take to save energy around the house. Make fun signs to serve as daily reminders to close the fridge quickly, turn off lights and only change the thermostat as a last resort.

Keep “phantom power” waste bottled up. Phantom energy—the electricity devices use even when they are turned off— can be a tricky concept for kids to understand. Illustrate it in a fun way by adding marbles to a glass bottle or jar

every time someone spots an unused device still plugged in. Set a goal and reward yourselves when everyone keeps phantom energy use down.

No matter what you do to keep energy savings fun around the house, the most important part of instilling good habits is reliably reminding your family of the little steps they can take to be more efficient. Consistency is key. e

Forty students from around New Mexico traveled to Washington, D.C., as part of the National Rural Electric Cooperative Association’s Youth Tour.

LEADERS in the Making

NRECA Youth Tour 2025 inspires our next generation of leaders during a weeklong trip to Washington, D.C.

By Tom Condit

Since 1964, the National Rural Electric Cooperative Association has coordinated the Youth Tour, bringing high school students from across the country to Washington, D.C., for a life-changing week. In New Mexico, local electric cooperatives sponsor exceptional sophomores, juniors and seniors to take part in this unforgettable, all-expenses-paid experience.

This year, 40 students and five chaperones kicked off their adventure in Santa Fe with a visit to the state Capitol. There, they met Gov. Michelle Lujan Grisham and toured the House and Senate chambers.

After arriving in the nation’s capital, they settled into the Gaylord National Resort and set out to explore American history firsthand.

“Our days were packed with unforgettable experiences—touring the National Mall, monuments, Smithsonian museums and Arlington National Cemetery during a moving wreath-laying ceremony,” says Talia Storch, NMRECA Youth Tour coordinator and one of the trip’s chaperones. “Youth Tour students also networked by trading pins, enjoyed a Potomac River dinner cruise, visited the Holocaust Memorial Museum and attended an inspiring Youth Day event. Their respectful behavior, curiosity and enthusiasm made this journey a tremendous success.”

Trip highlights included standing beneath the Lincoln Memorial, visiting the World War II and Korean War veterans memorials and taking in breathtaking views from the top of the Washington Monument. Students learned about democracy through visits

with New Mexico’s congressional delegation and a tour of the House Gallery.

They also built friendships and memories to last a lifetime.

“Over the course of the week, I watched these 17- and 18-year-olds grow in confidence, leadership and awareness as they explored our nation’s capital,” chaperone Jennifer Peabody says. “It was fulfilling to support them through new experiences—a couple of them flying or traveling far from home for the first time. The energy, curiosity and respect these young leaders brought to every stop made the long days totally worthwhile.”

The Youth Tour isn’t just a trip—it’s a life-changing experience where students discover the power of leadership, civic engagement and connection. Participants gain a deeper understanding of American democracy and their own potential to make a difference.

“This year’s group of students impressed us all with their curiosity, leadership and enthusiasm,” NMRECA CEO Vince Martinez says. “There’s no doubt they each have a bright future ahead, and we can’t wait to see the incredible things they will accomplish.”

Thank You to All Who Helped

Our Participating Cooperatives

We sincerely thank the following electric cooperatives for their invaluable support of this year’s Youth Tour. Their dedication to empowering young people and investing in their futures makes this life-changing experience possible. Thank you for helping inspire the next generation of leaders.

X Central New Mexico Electric Cooperative

X Central Valley Electric Cooperative

X Columbus Electric Cooperative

X Continental Divide Electric Cooperative

X Farmers’ Electric Cooperative

X Jemez Mountains Electric Cooperative

X Lea County Electric Cooperative

X Mora San Miguel Electric Cooperative

X Otero County Electric Cooperative

X Roosevelt County Electric Cooperative

X Socorro Electric Cooperative

Our Wonderful Chaperones

Thank you to our chaperones for their dedication and care in guiding our students on this unforgettable journey. The commitment ensured everyone had a safe, enriching and inspiring experience in Washington, D.C. We appreciate all you do to support our youth and help shape the leaders of tomorrow.

X Sylvia Padilla, Central New Mexico Electric Cooperative

X Tina Trujillo, Jemez Mountains Electric Cooperative

X Talia Storch, NMRECA Youth Tour Coordinator

X Ruben Archuleta, husband of Tina Trujillo

X Jennifer Peabody, NMRECA

Youth Tour delegates visited many historic landmarks and memorials.

Want to see more moments from this year’s tour?

Visit facebook.com/nmrecoops for photos and to keep up with New Mexico Rural Electric Cooperative Association. Contact your local cooperative or the NMRECA to learn how you can join next year’s Youth Tour.

Take Part in Youth Tour ’26

Who is eligible?

Youth Tour is open to high school students who:

X Live in New Mexico and are served by a rural electric cooperative.

X Are currently enrolled as a sophomore, junior or senior.

X Exhibit leadership potential, community involvement and a genuine interest in government, history or public service.

How to Apply

X Check with your local cooperative. Ask your local rural electric cooperative for an application. Your co-op can confirm your eligibility and application details. Each cooperative has specific requirements and deadlines, so it is important to reach out early.

X Complete the application form. Applications typically include a short essay, a letter of recommendation and basic information about you and your interests. Be sure to highlight what makes you a strong candidate for Youth Tour.

SAFETY SPOTLIGHT

Watch for Back-to-Schoolers

On average, 26 children in the United States are killed every year while getting on or off a school bus, or while waiting at the bus stop. To avoid such tragedies, drivers are reminded to:

Carefully back out of driveways. Watch for children walking to the bus stop.

Slow down. Watch for children walking in the street and playing or congregating near bus stops—especially in the early morning hours when it may still be dark.

Be alert. Children arriving late for the bus may dart into the street without looking.

Obey the law. Yellow flashing lights on a bus mean motorists should slow down and prepare to stop. Red flashing lights mean motorists must stop their cars and wait until the red lights stop flashing, the extended stop sign is withdrawn and the bus starts moving again. Unless there is a median, oncoming traffic also must stop

Read enchantment Online

Check out enchantment’s newly redesigned website at www.enchantment.coop.

Enjoy the new look and user-friendly access to specific sections of the magazine.

Beat the heat with

fam favorites

As the summer heat lingers for another month, the thought of preparing hot meals and firing up ovens can feel overwhelming. Why not create simple alternatives?

For a quick, hearty meal with minimal effort, Frito pie is a crowd favorite. All you need is a skillet, a can opener and a few minutes to pull together this dish—no oven required.

Frito pie is claimed by Texans and New Mexicans as a home-state favorite, with versions dating back to the 1930s in San Antonio and 1960s versions served straight from Frito bags in Santa Fe. Regardless of its origin, it remains a nostalgic, satisfying dish.

Looking for something a little more portable? Prepare for the return of school days with on-the-go power balls. They’re easy to make, full of protein and fiber, and provide a boost of energy—without sacrificing taste.

Stay cooler. Keep the oven off. Enjoy simple pleasures, especially from the kitchen.

Power Balls

1/2 cup honey

11/2 teaspoons vanilla extract

1 cup crunchy peanut butter

2¾ cups quick oats

1 cup mini chocolate chips

1/2 cup finely chopped walnuts

1/2 cup white baking chips

2 teaspoons vanilla-flavored coffee creamer

• Mix together honey, vanilla extract and peanut butter until smooth.

• Stir in oats and chocolate chips, reserving ¼ cup

chocolate chips for coating. Mix until mixture resembles large crumbs.

• Prepare a rimmed baking sheet with parchment paper.

• With moistened hands, form 1-inch balls, rolling in hands and packing until firm.

• Roll each ball in crushed walnuts and remaining chocolate chips.

• Place balls on the prepared baking sheet, and refrigerate until firm.

• In a microwave, melt white baking chips and creamer together, stirring in 30-second intervals until smooth.

• Drizzle melted baking chips on cooled power balls if desired. Keep refrigerated in an airtight container for up to three weeks.

Frito Pie

1/2 onion, diced

1 pound ground beef

1 10-ounce can red enchilada sauce

1 15-ounce can chili-ready diced tomatoes

1.25 ounces chili seasoning mix

1 15-ounce can pinto beans, rinsed

Crunchy corn chips

Grated cheese of choice

Sour cream

Chopped jalapenos to garnish

• In skillet, brown onion and ground beef. Drain fat.

• Add enchilada sauce, diced tomatoes, seasoning mix and pinto beans. Stir until incorporated. Simmer together until liquid is absorbed and mixture thickens, approximately 5 minutes.

• In serving bowls, spread a handful of corn chips, spoon chili mixture on top, sprinkle grated cheese and garnish with sour cream and jalapenos, as desired.

Makes 4 servings.

THE MARKET PLACE

Animals

CROSS M COMPOSITE CALVES FOR SALE. Genetics designed to reduce mature weight for increased soundness, performance, productivity and longevity in your herd. 1/4 each; Angus, Dexter, Longhorn, and Highland. Many calves grulla colored. Socorro County. Rebecca Moeller, 575-8353866 or Greg Schulte, 720-400-9452.

Equipment

MIG WELDER ELECTRIC NEW. 2 SEMEN TANKS, $350 EACH. 10 FT PULL TYPE GRADER. 8 INCH. PTO WATER PUMP. MASSY FURGSON 1135 WITH CAB. 806 INTERNATIONAL TRACTOR. MAYTAG WRINGER WASHER MACHINE. 3 BOTTOM PLOW. Call 505-235-8262.

FORD 800 TRACTOR. Runs Well. 5 speed. New rear tires, rims, tubes. 12 Volt conversion. Attachments include: rear scoop, boom and draw bar. Been in same family over 50 years. Call Julian: 505-670-4537 Price $4,800.

CAT 416C, EXT HOE, DEERE 310J, EXT HOE, GEHL 603 TRACK HOE, CAT 924G LOADER, DEERE 670 CHII GRADER, DEERE 210LE LOADER, Tularosa, NM 575-682-2308

1 TO 4 COMPARTMENT OVERHEAD FEED BINS, FREE STANDING CATTLE GUARDS - ANY SIZE, SHIPPING CONTAINERS. Emery Welding, Clayton, NM, 575-207-7402, eweld98@yahoo.com

Great Finds

BUYING OLD GAS PUMPS, PUMP PARTS, OIL CANS, GLOBES, ADVERTISING SIGNS THERMOMETERS CLOCKS, OLD LICENSE PLATES, OLD NEON SIGNS. Call the Gas Guy in Embudo 505-852-2995. Have TruckWill Travel.

HEADSTONES (I.E. CEMETERY MONUMENTS) is our business. Over 1,000 designs. An eternal memory of a loved one. TAOS MOUNTAIN HERITAGE. Call 575770-2507 or 575-758-3903 or Email: taos_mt_ heritage@msn.com. Alfalfa Bales for sale also. Website: www.taosmountainheritage.com

SIMPLE MOBILE UNLIMITED TALK & TEXT CELLPHONE $20.00. COPPER KNIVES STAYS SHARP FOREVER, NEVER NEEDS SHARPENING $25.00. BROWN STRAP WITH GOLD TRIM USED LADIES WATCH $5.00. 1,000 PIECE JIGSAW PUZZLE WITH FURRY FRIENDS WITH BONUS POSTER. Call Patricia at 505-373-7531.

LATE 1800’S HISTORICAL CHUCKWAGON PLUS CAST IRON PLUS 2019 LARK V-NOSE 8.5X24’ TRAILER plus everything you need to continue the tradition of the Chuckwagon heritage. This “Indiana” wagon once ran on Oliver Lee’s Circle Cross ranch near Alamogordo, NM as a line wagon that he later had converted to a chuckwagon. Asking price for everything: $20,000. Bring your truck with a receiver, the hitch and stabilizer bars are included. Drive away with everything. Email, call or text: Cactus John Drusedum, Lonely Goat Ranch, Roswell, NM john.dru52@gmail.com 575-317-7459

Real Estate

TUCUMCARI-1120 S SARATOGA, (Also next to US 54/Mountain Road) $20,000. City water close by. Big Mesa Realty, 575-4562000, Paul Stout, Broker 17843, 575-760-5461. www.bigmesarealty.com.

CONCHAS- 195 HIDDEN PLACE, SALE PENDING, Septic, Power pole and water lines. Just over 1 acre. $50,000. Big Mesa Realty, 575-456-2000, Paul Stout, Broker 17843, 575-760-5461. www.bigmesarealty.com.

CANADIAN RIVER-WEST UTE LAKE- SIX 40 ACRE +/- PARCELS. Lake and Mesalands view. Call for showing and pricing. Owner Financing Available. Big Mesa Realty, 575456-2000, Paul Stout, Broker 17843, 575-7605461. www.bigmesarealty.com.

FORT SUMNER-SUMNER LAKE- 225

INDIAN PLACE, Two bedroom, two bathroom home on 20 acres with loft space. Amazing views of the Pecos River valley. $325,000. Big Mesa Realty, 575-456-2000, Paul Stout, Broker 17843, 575-760-5461. www.bigmesarealty.com.

MILAGRO- 0000 PECOS SPUR, PRICE REDUCED, Portillo Creek Ranch

Subdivision. Tract 6, 164 acres. Partial fencing. Wide open space. $80,000. Big Mesa Realty, 575-456-2000, Paul Stout, Broker 17843, 575760-5461. www.bigmesarealty.com.

MAGDALENA-0000 TBD STATE ROAD

169, 1.28 ACRES. Great mountain views 15 miles from Magdalena. Borders Cibola National Forest. Hunting potential. $15,000. Big Mesa Realty, 575-456-2000, Paul Stout, Broker 17843, 575-760-5461. www.bigmesarealty.com.

DATIL/PIE TOWN- Various 40 +/- acre tracts north of Sawtooth Mountains and national forest in former Criswell Ranch area. Call for pricing. Big Mesa Realty, 575-456-2000, Paul Stout, Broker 17843, 575-760-5461. www.bigmesarealty.com.

SOCORRO, SAN MARCIAL-SOUTH OF SAN ANTONIO-WILLOW SPRINGS

SUBDIVISION- 702 acres with southwestern style home. Great views in the Chupadera Mountain foothills. $1,100,000. Big Mesa Realty, 575-456-2000, Paul Stout, Broker 17843, 575-760-5461. www.bigmesarealty.com.

EASTERN NEW MEXICO- Let us sell your large acreage working farm or ranch. Broker is farm owner/operator and lifetime New Mexico resident. Big Mesa Realty, 575-4562000, Paul Stout, Broker 17843, 575-760-5461. www.bigmesarealty.com.

OKLAHOMA PANHANDLE- Let us sell your large acreage working farm or ranch. Broker is farm owner/operator. Big Mesa Realty, 575456-2000, Paul Stout, Broker 17843, OREC Broker 209965 575-760-5461. www.bigmesarealty.com.

PRIME BUSINESS LOCATION ON HISTORIC BRIDGE STREET JUST STEPS FROM LAS VEGAS’ HISTORIC PLAZA.

Surrounded by beautiful historic commercial establishments, this building is an infill built in 1988 in the style of its neighbors. Downstairs retail; upstairs residential or 3 separate offices w/kitchen, dining area, & full bath with laundry. New roof 2004; central heat & air; security system; parking in back & on-street. Laurie Frantz, Real Broker, 505-920-1346, lauriefrantz@gmail.com.

MULTIPLE BEAUTIFUL, FORESTED LOTS IN THE PENDARIES SUBDIVISION, FEATURING PONDEROSA PINES. Each lot is available for purchase individually, with prices as low as $5,000. Community water access and views. Don’t miss this opportunity—secure your ideal lot today!

Laurie Frantz, Real Broker LLC, 505-920-1346, lauriefrantz@gmail.com

FANTASTIC OPPORTUNITY TO OWN A PIECE OF HISTORIC NORTHERN NEW MEXICO, IN HISTORIC TIERRA AMARILLA. This two-story traditional style adobe home with tin roof was built in 1881 and is known as the Garcia House. The original interior adobe walls and wood floors are still in most of the house. The property is zoned both commercial and residential. The current owners have a room in the back which was used as a stage. $200,000. Laurie Frantz, Real Broker LLC, 505920-1346, lauriefrantz@gmail.com.

To Place a Classified Ad

1. Visit www.enchantment.coop/classifieds and complete form. You will be contacted by email with price and deadline to submit check or money order.

2. Ads will not be accepted over the phone.

3. Or, complete form and select category.

4. Write ad on another sheet of paper.

5. Price: 40 word ads are $50 80 word ads are $100

To Send and Pay Your Classified Ad

1. Mail ad and payment (Payable to NMRECA)

NMRECA • enchantment

614 Don Gaspar Ave. Santa Fe, NM 87505

80 GLORIOUS HILLY ACRES 3 MILES

SOUTH OF MADRID OFF THE TURQUOISE TRAIL. The views of the surrounding hills & valley are stupendous. Plenty of building sites, & a good dirt road to the top of the lower 40 acres, but no graded road beyond that. The shipping container on a large level spot on the lower 40 acres would be a great place to build. No utilities in place, & no electric in the area. Laurie Frantz, Real Broker LLC, 505-920-1346, lauriefrantz@gmail.com.

GORGEOUS WATERFRONT RIVER

PROPERTY – 6 Acres – Acequia Water Rights – Rio Pueblo River - 3 water memberships – 2 Homes – and more - Nestled in the quaint village of Vadito, NM – just 20 miles from Taos, NM, with 2 unique adobe homes, pastural views, sunsets and sunrises lies a fantastic opportunity to be completely selfsustainable. Farming, family compound, horse property, rental/income. Perfect for that person wanting to farm, family getaway, or the investor looking for rental income – or all three. Don’t let this opportunity slip by. Contact Irene Cordova, Realtor - Realty 1 of NM-575-613-0671-cell or office – 505-8839400. Email: irene.enchantedcirclerealestate@ gmail.com for more information.

LIGHTLY LIVED IN TOWNHOUSE, CENTRALLY LOCATED IN ALBUQUERQUE NORTH VALLEY OFF 4TH ST! Front door opens into open floor plan living/dining room & kitchen (granite countertops, dark wood cabinets, pantry). Slider leads to patio & walled backyard. Primary bedroom, bathroom, laundry room on first floor. 2 bedrooms & full bath upstairs. 1-car garage. Energy efficient w/ programmable thermostat, low E windows, energy efficient central heating & cooling. $340,000. Laurie Frantz, Real Broker LLC, 505920-1346, lauriefrantz@gmail.com

2 CONTIGUOUS PINON/JUNIPERFORESTED LOTS, 45.563 acres, Mujeres Ranch, Cibola Co. Electricity at lot line; well, septic needed. No HOA or covenants; MHs allowed. Owner financing possible. $99,500 for both. Big mountain views! Laurie Frantz, Real Broker LLC, 505-920-1346, lauriefrantz@gmail.com

Vehicles

2009 SUZUKI DRZ MC BLACK good tires always stored inside with only 5,000 miles. Excellent condition $2,500.00. Runs great. Call Clark 575-808-0724.

1998 JEEP 4X4 CHEROKEE one owner Low Mileage. S10 Chevy Truck one owner. Gas Golf Cart. 1964 Chevy Truck One Ton. Call 505-235-8262.

Deadline

1. Due the 7th, one month prior. Ads due Aug. 7 for the September issue.

Good to Know

1. Only members of New Mexico electric cooperatives may place ads.

2. We reserve the right to reject any ad.

4. Advertisements in enchantment are paid solicitations and are not endorsed by the publisher or the electric cooperatives of New Mexico.

5. PRODUCT SATISFACTION AND DELIVERY RESPONSIBILITY LIE SOLELY WITH THE ADVERTISER.

6. Enchantment prints monthly, except for June and December. Questions? Call: 505-982-4671.

Name: Address: City: State: ZIP: Phone: Cooperative:

AROUND NEW MEXICO

New Mexico’s rural communities, served by electric cooperatives across the state, are surrounded by breathtaking deserts, mountain ranges, and more than 50 national and state parks. From quiet villages to historic cities such as Santa Fe and Taos, the Land of Enchantment blends Native American, Mexican and Spanish cultures into something truly unique. Here are upcoming local events happening in the co-op areas and beyond:

Santa Fe County Fair

When: July 31–Aug. 2

Where: Santa Fe County Fairgrounds, Santa Fe

See 4-H exhibits, livestock shows, home arts displays, a petting zoo and family carnival games. Admission is free. santafeextension.nmsu.edu/fcs/county-fair.html

Old Lincoln Days/Last Escape of Billy the Kid

When: Aug. 1–3

Where: Lincoln

Visit this three-day celebration of the colorful history of New Mexico, featuring the historic folk pageant representing the Lincoln County War and its most famous participant, Billy the Kid. Exhibits, vendors, music, lectures and performances all in the beautiful mountain setting of a New Mexico Territorial village. The outdoor amphitheater hosts performances at 8:30 p.m. Friday and Saturday and 1 p.m. Sunday. The parade is at 10 a.m. Sunday. discoverruidoso.com/calendar-of-events/billy-the-kidpageant-and-old-lincoln-days

Gallup Inter-Tribal Indian Ceremonial

When: Aug. 1–10

Where: Red Rock Park, Gallup

Traditional dances, rodeo events, art markets and parades celebrate Indigenous cultures from across the Southwest. gallupceremonial.com

Santa Fe Chamber Music Festival

When: Aug. 1-16

Where: Various venues in Santa Fe Internationally acclaimed chamber music concerts, free youth programs and familyfriendly matinees entertain in a relaxed setting. santafechambermusic.com

Albuquerque Summerfest – Westside

When: Aug. 2

Where: Ventana Ranch Community Park, Albuquerque

This free neighborhood festival is packed full with live music, artisan vendors, food trucks and children’s activities.

cabq.gov/artsculture/things-to-do/annual-events/ summerfest/westside-summerfest

Los Alamos County Fair & Rodeo

When: Aug. 2–3,

Where: Los Alamos County Fairgrounds & Rodeo Arena, Los Alamos

A full weekend of rodeo events, livestock shows, a fair parade, live music, crafts and carnival rides for children make this event a must-see. losalamosnm.us

Taos Summer Concert Series

When: Aug. 7

Where: Taos Plaza, Taos

Free outdoor concerts from 6-8 p.m. feature local and regional bands in a family-friendly plaza setting. taos.org/events/annual-event/taos-plaza-live

Music from Angel Fire

When: Aug. 14–28

Where: Angel Fire, Taos, Raton and Las Vegas

A chamber music festival presents free and ticketed concerts, family performances and

Include Your Upcoming Event

community outreach across northern New Mexico. musicfromangelfire.org

Santa Fe Indian Market

When: Aug. 16–17

Where: Santa Fe Plaza, Santa Fe

Come browse the largest Native American art market in the world, featuring more than 1,000 artists, traditional food, cultural performances and youth activities. swaia.org

Great American Duck Race

When: Aug. 21–24

Where: Deming

Join in on wacky wet and dry duck races, a carnival, live music, hot air balloons, tournaments and family fun all weekend in Luna County. demingduckrace.com

Totah Festival

When: Aug. 29–31

Where: Farmington Civic Center, Farmington

Visit the vibrant showcase of Native American art, jewelry, dancing, drumming and traditional foods with family-friendly activities. farmingtonnm.org/events

Hatch Chile Festival

When: Aug. 29–Sept. 1

Where: Hatch

Celebrate New Mexico’s famous chile harvest with food booths, roasting demonstrations, live music and family entertainment. hatchchilefestival.org

Socorro Farmers Market

When: Every Saturday in August, 9 a.m. to noon

Where: Socorro Historic Plaza, Socorro

The Summer Market operates June to October from 4:30-6:30 p.m. Tuesdays and 9 a.m. to noon Saturdays. socorronm.org/location-activity/farmers-market

Send your event details to eventcalendar@nmelectric.coop. Include the event title, date, town and a summary of the event. Include the event website address so readers can get additional event information. Submit the event notification at least 60 days before the event to meet our press deadline. Space is limited, and events are run at the discretion of the editor.

Who Owns What?

Learn what you’re responsible for following an outage

As August rolls in with long days and rising temperatures, it also brings the increased potential for severe weather. Summer storms can arrive quickly and hit hard, sometimes causing significant damage to essential electric equipment throughout our community.

It is important for homeowners to understand which parts of the electric system are their responsibility and which are maintained by the co-op. Understanding these key differences can help speed up repairs and ensure everyone stays safe when the weather turns rough.

The co-op is responsible for maintaining and repairing the equipment and lines that run to your home, including utility poles, distribution power lines, electric meters and padmounted transformers.

Members are responsible for the weatherhead, service mast and meter socket located outside the home.

If any equipment the homeowner is responsible for is damaged, they should call a licensed electrician to conduct the repairs. A professional has the experience and know-how to assess and manage these repairs. When severe weather damages electrical equipment, it’s important to note any necessary repairs to the member’s equipment must be conducted before crews can restore power to the home or business. By understanding the equipment members are responsible for, the repair and restoration process can be smoother and faster. e

Electric

Co-op Owned Equipment vs Member-Owned Equipment

This graphic depicts equipment owned by the co-op (in gold) and the member (in blue). If a storm damages any equipment owned by the co-op, we are responsible for repairs. If a storm damages any member-owned equipment, the member is responsible for repairs. Members should hire a licensed electrician when making any repairs to member-owned equipment.

Note: This graphic depicts overhead and

youth art

September Topic: Backto-school season is here! Decorate your backpack and fill it with your favorite things.

October Topic: Happy Halloween! Draw your best Halloween costume.

Send Your Drawing By mail: Youth Editor 614 Don Gaspar Ave. Santa Fe, NM 87505 By email: tcondit@nmelectric.coop

Deadline: Submit by the 9th, one month prior to publication.

Hooray!

Winners receive a $15 gift card.

Have a Youth Art Topic? Email or mail to the addresses above, or call 505-982-4671.

5 items to include on the back of your drawing, otherwise YOU ARE DISQUALIFIED: 1. Name 2. Age

3. Mailing Address

4. Phone Number

5. Electric Co-op DON’T FORGET THESE ITEMS!

Artwork accepted up to age 13.

Congratulations to the

winning artists who drew a cat in a fancy outfit for International Cat Day!

Sierra Electric Cooperative, Rio-Rancho

Central New

Owen Casillas • Age 7

Aviana Martinez • Age 5

Mexico Electric Cooperative, Rio-Rancho

Adriana Cortez Sandoval • Age 7 Socorro Electric Cooperative

Ava Trujillo • Age 6 Jemez Mountains Electric Cooperative, Española

Rorie Chavez • Age 6 Socorro Electric Cooperative San-Antonio

Aubrey Torres • Age 11 Mora-San Miguel Electric Cooperative

The heart of the C&TSRR is in the ne people of Chama, New Mexico; Antonito, Colorado; and the surrounding communities who have supported our railroad for generations. To show our appreciation, we offer a 50% discount to locals who live within a 80-mile radius of either Chama or Antonito on All Aboard Chama Excursions, All Aboard Antonito Excursions, Chama Limited, Antonito Limited, and Cumbres Express. This discount is valid on COACH CLASS seating only and cannot be applied online. Please call our reservations line at 1-888-286-2737 to book.

CLEARING THE WAY FOR A SAFER TOMORROW

At Tri-State G&T, we believe in the strength of rural communities — and we’re working hard to protect them. Our vegetation management crews are out in the field year-round assessing vegetation risk, clearing brush, trimming trees, and creating defensible space around power lines. It’s all part of our wildfire mitigation strategy to keep your family, homes, and businesses safe. Because when it comes to wildfires, prevention is power.

WHATEVER THE FUTURE HOLDS, WE’LL POWER IT.®

Scan to learn more about our year-round wildfire mitigation program.