Rr exp spring final draft compressed

express Spring Issue

RAIL RUNNER EXPRESS

The official magazine of the New Mexico Rail Runner Express

www.nmrailrunner.com | www.travelnewmex.com | SPRING 2016

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The

Step right up to see the greatest little big top ever made, handcrafted by the one, the only W. J. “Windy” Morris! yyy You will be astounded and amazed!

This miniature 1920s railroad circus includes a moving street parade, elaborate miniature wagons, sideshow, tiny tents, and big animals!

First time on view since 1986! yyy On view April 3–December 31, 2016 Public Opening: Sunday, April 3, 1–4 p.m.

Featuring amazing aerials, acrobatics, and antics of Wise Fool New Mexico. yyy NEW MEXICO RESIDENTS WITH I.D. FREE ON SUNDAYS. CHILDREN 16 AND UNDER AND MNMF MEMBERS ALWAYS FREE. Funding for this exhibition provided by the International Folk Art Foundation, the Museum of New Mexico Foundation and donors to the Exhibitions Development Fund. photograph by kitty leaken

On Museum Hill in Santa Fe · 505-476-1200 · InternationalFolkArt.org 2

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RAIL RUNNER EXPRESS

INDEX 6: Wet Your Whistle

17: Rail Runner Weekday Schedule

8: Enchanting Socorro: A Treasure

18: Rail Runner Weekend Schedule

Among NM Destinations

11: BICI Shares the Savings With Bicycle Riders

12: The Candy Lady Has A New Location

13: Rail Runner Ticket Agent Puts Customers First

14: Patio Dining At Its Finest, Church Street Cafe!

19: Rail Runner Holiday Schedule, Fares

20: Rail & Bus Connections Guide 22: Schedule of Events 24: Rail Runner Q & A 25: Rail Runner Saves Passengers Money, Promotes Reading

26: Veteran Spent Her Career Taking Care of Soldiers

28: Santa Claran Hotel Casino Adds Tasty To Its Offerings in 2016

34: Takes a Team: Rail Runner Express Relies on People Power to Run Each Day

35: History is at the Heart of Raton’s Present and Future

37: CHAMA: New Mexico’s Mecca for Year-Round Fun

38: Route 66 Casino Hotel:

Award-Winning Dining, Live Entertainment and Unlimited Fun

Your Journey Begins at School of Dreams Academy • Rigorous Academics • Nationally Ranked Robotics • Nationally Recognized Dance Curriculum • Digital Art/Video Production • BEMP/Horticulture • Award Winning Writing Program • Fine Arts Program • Band & Guitar Programs

Start College while you’re completing high school in Valencia County. High school at SODA can be the best way for students to start college and earn an Associate Degree before they graduate, tuition free! Early College Designs enable students, particularly low-income and minority students, to experience rigorous high school and college coursework that leads to improved outcomes. Early college students are outperforming their peers nationwide*:

90% graduate high school vs. 78% of students nationally

94% earn free college credit while in high school

S AN TA F E ’ S NE W P L AC E TO ME E T . . .

PUBLISHERS MATT GANTNER WILLIAM HALSEY

GRAPHIC DESIGNERS ASHLEY CONNER DANA BENJAMIN

ADVERTISING REPRESENTATIVE SCOTT SIMMONS

WRITERS BARB ARMIJO MARTIN FRENTZEL

THE RAILYARD S

postsecondary credential while in high school *Jobs For The Future/Early College Initiatives, 2016.

The New Mexico Rail Runner Express Magazine is published three times a year by Moon Dog Publishing and the Rio Metro Regional Transit District. The Publisher and Rio Metro Transit District RAIL RUNNER EXPRESS do not take responsibility for the accuracy or legitimacy of the 9400 Holly advertiser’s message or that of the guest writer/columnists or any Avenue NE Albuquerque, NM aspect of the business operation or conduct of the advertisers in the magazine. Moon Dog Publishing reserves the right to 87122 edit all articles for accuracy and style. For more information and (505) 259-7969 advertising rates, call (505) 350-8695 or (505) 259-7969.

E AN T A F

WWW.R AILYARD SANTAF E .COM

30% earn an Associate degree or other

FOR MORE INFORMATION VISIT WWW.NMRAILRUNNER.COM | WWW.TRAVELNEWMEX.COM

FINE ARTS PROGRAM

DIGITAL ART/ VIDEO PRODUCTION

Specializing in Subaru, Toyota, Honda and Nissan Service and Repair.

SODA serves the Albuquerque Metro area, grades 7-12th. Location, location, location.....we are moving to 6909 Juan Perea Rd. (Hwy314), Los Lunas, NM 87031 Right next to the Los Lunas RailRunner Station. Welcome to what will be a learning hub for secondary, post-secondary and vocational workforce training to better prepare our community for life.

Call Candy for an appointment, estimates or questions.

Come in for student led tour! 505-866-7632

505.262.0411 • 1.800.437.9883

138 Tennessee NE, Albuquerque, NM 87108 ~ ASE Certified Technicians ~

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ROBOTICS PROGRAM

www.nmrailrunner.com | www.travelnewmex.com | SPRING 2016

www.sodacharter.net 1800 Main Street, NE, Suite 250 • Los Lunas, NM 87031

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RAIL RUNNER EXPRESS

Wet Your Whistle

By Martin Frentzel Beer Drinkers Making the Connection to “Frontier of Beer” A “whistle stop” is defined as a place where trains only halt when they are signaled. The Santa Fe Railyard, however, has become a great place to wet your whistle, due largely to New Mexico’s booming craft beer industry.

Eat too much popcorn at the Violet Crown Plaza Theater, and there are 30 beers on tap in the lobby, about two-thirds of those produced in New Mexico. Getting hungry? The Second Street Brewery’s executive chef, originally from New Orleans, is heating up the red beans and rice as well as the usual sandwich fare.

Walk north to the Plaza or south to Whole Foods, and you will find New Mexico beer is served, and customers from across the country are licking the tasty foam off their lips.

Welcome to the Frontier of Beer.

Public transportation connects Tractor Brewing Company to New Mexico’s beer lovers. Photo by Martin Frentzel

MAKE THE CONNECTION

Farmington, Silver City, Socorro and Albuquerque are among the other communities where beer drinkers are finding excellent, locally produced beverages. It can be defined as a movement, an extension of the locavore initiative where people prefer locally produced food and drinks.

“Part of the attraction is to sit down to a beer in the same building where it was produced,” says Jason Fitzpatrick of the Bath Tub Row Brewery in Los Alamos. “There’s a connection you

Beer Ambassador Christopher Goblet enjoys a 2-inch pour during WinterBrew at the Santa Fe Railyard. Photo by Martin Frentzel

can’t get by pulling your beer off the shelf at the grocery store.”

Bath Tub Row was one of the breweries participating in the fifth annual WinterBrew held in January at Santa Fe Railyard.

“This was our fourth straight sell-out,” says Christopher Goblet, past Beer Ambassador for the New Mexico Brewers Guild.

Tickets are limited to 1,000, he says.

“We hold these events to introduce beer connoisseurs to a variety of new offerings,” Goblet says. The state’s breweries also are pushing the boundaries of technique and flavor, which is why the guild refers to New Mexico as the Frontier of Beer.

If you want to explore this tasty territory there are a couple web sites you should visit first. For those using public transportation, there’s a self-guided New Mexico Rail Runner Express Brew Tour available online at nmrxbrewtour.com, and the New Mexico Brewers Guild website has a more complete listing, http://nmbeer.org/.

The Downtown Albuquerque Rail Runner Station is centrally located to several breweries, including Marble Brewery, which won the honors of Small Brewery and Small Brewer Brewery of the Year at the 2014 Great American Beer Festival. Marble is dedicated to brewing premium craft beer, however, the brewery at 111 Marble NW also plays well with others. Food trucks and community fundraisers are available at all three Marble locations.

If you are looking for a beer that reminds you why you live in New Mexico, try the Wildflower Wheat, described as a “liquid sopapilla.”

UNM-Valencia Campus offers the degree and certificate programs you need to succeed in today’s job market. You can earn an associate degree in Nursing, Video Game Design and Digital Media Arts — among others. Also, our dual credit program provides students the opportunity to earn free college credit while taking a single course in high school.

If you’re looking for a higher education for a lower cost, come to UNM-Valencia!

a quality education, a lifetime of success 505.925.8560 valencia.unm.edu 280 La Entrada Rd. Los Lunas, N.M. 87031

A PROVEN INDUSTRY

Albuquerque’s downtown breweries also seem intent on recycling – at least the buildings where the beers are born. Boese Brothers’ location at 601 Gold SW was once an auto continued on page 13 6

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Enchanting Socorro: A Treasure Among NM Destinations Enchanting Socorro—the small city with a wonderful name— is a treasure among New Mexico destinations that lies just south of Albuquerque. Socorro means “help,” derived from the word ‘succor.’ That is precisely what Spanish settlers led by pioneer Don Juan de Onate in 1598 received from the Pire Indians in the region.

They had traversed a section of the Nuevo Medico Trail so arid and mean that the conquistadores had given it the name Jornado del Muerte, Journey of the Death.

Besides being the home of New Mexico Tech, one of American education’s best-kept secrets, Socorro is an outdoor recreation haven. Escondido Lake and Park offers fishing and camping, RV hookups, tent sites, bathrooms and potable water. Box Canyon Recreation Area is a popular site for camping, hiking and rock climbing. Elephant Butte Dam and its recreation sites are to the south.

vertu

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San Miguel Church

Locales for less strenuous nature walking also exist. In Socorro’s historic district, beautiful Elfego Baca Heritage Park is where you’ll learn about one of New Mexico’s legendary lawmen, and serene Isidro Baca Park honors Socorroans who served in the U.S. Armed Forces.

There is also a thriving contemporary arts scene in downtown Socorro. The historic Hammel Museum is open from 9 a.m. to noon the 1st Saturday of each month. According to its website, the museum started as a beer garden and, in the intervening century, became successively a brewery, an ice plant, a soda bottling plant, and finally ended as an active industry still making ice. The ice plant closed in the mid-1950s and is now preserved and managed by the Socorro County Historical Society as a museum.

The national Karl G. Jansky Very Large Array, one of the world’s premier astronomical radio observatories, is located on the Plains of San Agustin 50 miles west of Socorro. It consists of twenty-seven 25-meter-diameter radio antennas in a Y-shaped configuration.

Guided tours are conducted at 11 a.m., 1 p.m., and 3 p.m. on the first Saturday of each month. The VLA site and Visitor Center are open daily from 8:30 a.m. until sunset.

On the evening of each first Saturday, “Night Sky observing” is offered at Etscorn Observatory beginning at dusk on the campus of NM Tech in Socorro.

The Bosque del Apache National Wildlife Refuge is an ornithologists’ paradise, where thousands of sandhill cranes (and the occasional whoopers), snow geese, bald eagles and other birds overwinter in fields and marshes each year. The Festival of the Cranes, just before Thanksgiving in November, celebrates the arrival of the “birds of heaven” with guided tours, unparalleled photography opportunities and lectures. Bosque del Apache is a true conservation success story.

Other upcoming Socorro events include:

EASY TO FIND ON SOCORRO’S HISTORIC PLAZA SO MUCH TO SEE AND DO — COME SPEND A WEEKEND Wednesday - Friday 10 to 6, Saturday 9 to 5, Sunday Noon to 4 102 PLAZA STREET SOCORRO, NM 87801 575-835-4487 sales@vertuarts.com www.vertuarts.com 8

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• Annual Fishing Derby – Saturday, March 19, 8 a.m. to noon, Escondida Lake.

• Trinity Site Open to the Public –Saturday, April 2, Stallion Site, Bingham NM. • Cinco de Mayo Celebration – Saturday, April 30, Sedillo Park.

• 4th of July Parade and Celebration – Monday, July 4, New Mexico Tech Campus.

City of Socorro, (575) 835-0240; www.socorronm.gov; www.facebook.com/socorronm

Bosque del Apache

Socorro Events AnnuAl Fishing Derby – March 19, escondida lake. The annual Community Fishing Derby is coming up saturday, March 19 at escondida lake. young anglers age three and over will fish for bragging rights and prizes from 8 a.m. to noon. Prizes will be awarded to registered youth anglers that attended the derby. The socorro Valley bass Club will award nine prizes for most weight/ limit and one big fish prize (trout) for each of the three categories/divisions. The age categories are 3 through 7, 8 through 11, and 12 and over. Anglers over 12 need a fishing license.

TriniTy siTe OPen TO The PubliC – April 2, stallion site, bingham nM. The first atomic bomb was tested at 5:29:45 a.m.

Mountain War Time on July 16, 1945 at Trinity site. The 19-kiloton explosion not only led to a quick end to the war in the Pacific but also ushered the world into the atomic age. This site is open to the public only once a year, the first saturday in April. A shuttle service to the site from socorro is provided by the City of socorro Transportation Department (575) 835-1501.

CinCO De MAyO CelebrATiOn – April 30, sedillo Park. let’s celebrate! This year’s Cinco de Mayo Celebration is going to be fantastic. live music, dancing, beautiful arts & crafts, delicious food. Fun for the whole family!

4Th OF July PArADe AnD CelebrATiOn – July 4, new Mexico Tech Campus. This free outdoor festival featuring family entertainment, a lineup of some of new Mexico’s favorite bands, water slide and jump balloons, bbQ and other delicious food, and nM Tech’s Famous Fireworks www.Socorronm.gov Display at Dark. Please bring your own chairs, shade and sunblock.| SPRING 2016 9 www.nmrailrunner.com | www.travelnewmex.com

BICI Shares the Savings With Bicycle Riders

KEVIN REED

Chemical Engineering A project I’m working on is a collaboration between the Chemical Engineering and Mechanical Engineering departments. The mechanical engineers are trying to develop a mechanoluminescent system that can be used for impact detection. Essentially, when a structure is hit or bent, a polymer coat along the surface will produce light at the impact spot, letting us know that it has been significantly damaged. Inside the polymer are special particles that produce light when they undergo stress. Current challenges are producing enough light to be seen and also characterizing the polymer systems. I’m co-leading the chemical engineering team and as chemical engineers, we are working to develop particles that will work well with the mechanical engineers’ system.

By Barb Armijo Compared to a car, the expense of owning a bicycle is negligible. You don’t have to buy gas or get the oil changed; you don’t have to have a bike rack to haul it thanks to Albuquerque’s fine trail system, and you don’t need a garage or a healthy ice-scraper with an integral broom. Owning a bike, however, does require one to have enough storage space to keep the bike accessible and therefore useful.

However, if you just want to ride a bike around town, enjoy the city’s 300 days of annual sunshine, and keep those lungs working, there is a low-cost transportation alternative being tested in the city which can give you wheels sans storage hassles.

BICI is a Bike Share pilot program wrapping up its first year and apparently destined to be continued and expanded. Since its debut May 15, 2015, Bike Share racked up impressive numbers: 887 users purchased memberships (annual, monthly or daily), and they shared bicycles a total of 3,791 times as of Jan. 25.

“We found that for the first six months, half the users were residents of Albuquerque, and half had out-of-town zip codes,” says Valerie Hermanson, planner for the Mid-Region Council of Governments. “Some of those zip codes were from Alaska and Maine – all over the country.”

GROWTH AT THE GATE

Initially, BICI – an abbreviated form of the Spanish word bicicleta – was supposed to be a small test with just five bikes.

RAIL RUNNER EXPRESS

“Lola Bird from Downtown ABQ MainStreet wrote the first grant and received $15,000 from PNM,” Hermanson says.

“What happened was the word got out, and local businesses started reaching out to Downtown ABQ MainStreet and the Mid-Region Council of Governments and saying they would contribute financially.”

Due to the additional contributions, the BICI test became 75 bikes and 15 BICI stations scattered across downtown, including one on the southwest corner Valerie Hermanson, a planner for the Mid-Region Council of Governments, is working to expand Albuquerque’s Bike Share program.

Photo by Riann Martinez

continued on page 27

Where the smart kids go. www.nmt.edu

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The Candy Lady Has A New Location After being in one Old Town location for more than 35 years, the Candy Lady moved a few years ago to a new locale in Old Town at 424 San Felipe NW and continues to be among Albuquerque’s most popular sweet shops. Don’t be fooled by imitators. There is only one Candy Lady!

The Candy Lady’s business is firmly based on two things: great candy and great service. “We make several kinds of fudge, with and without chile; bonbons and truffles with caramel and nuts; chocolate-dipped strawberries; and 60 varieties of licorice,” says owner Debbie Ball. “When people come in, we greet them, give them samples and enjoy every opportunity to visit with them. I don’t think anybody can beat us for customer service.

That’s why people come back.”

Most recently, The Candy Lady has gained fame as a one-stop shop for items based on the famed “Breaking Bad” television series, including crushed blue crystal candy, T-shirts, coffee cups, the Heisenburg hat, custom PEZ dispensers, lapel pins and more.

As always, The Candy Lady retains its X-rated confections that earned the shop widespread media coverage in its early years. (Remember when North Valley churchgoers expressed their objections by picketing in front of the store in January 1982).

Stop in The Candy Lady and say “hello” to Debbie, who is almost always working at the store and giving customers her special perspectives on life and chocolate.

Rail Runner Ticket Agent Puts Customers First

By Barb Armijo Sheldon Trujillo got maximum value out of an internship he had with the New Mexico Rail Runner Express about six years ago. A year later, an opportunity came up to be full-time, and he is grateful and proud to be part of the Rail Runner team for the past five years.

“People were always asking me when I was going to finally become official,” he said, chuckling. “Even the conductors and other ticket agents were asking me if I was going to be a fulltime employee someday. I sure hoped I would, then the chance came.”

“Working as a ticket agent for the Rail Runner is very enjoyable mostly because I am able to provide direct customer service to the passengers,” he said. “It gives me the chance to really get to know the passengers and their specific needs. I not only interact with the daily regular riders, but I meet new riders from all over the world with their adventurous stories.”

Recently, Trujillo met a man who had been backpacking across the globe. Trujillo said it always makes him proud to be from New Mexico when he meets these people. “The rider said he loved New Mexico,” Trujillo said. “He had been all over the world. He was from Argentina and came here to hitchhike and backpack. The fact that he landed in New Mexico, riding the Rail Runner was really something special. He also told me that I should get out there and see the world.”

Trujillo, 29, said his immediate plans are to continue doing great work for the Rail Runner and to continue to look for opportunities to grow professionally. He is a native New Mexican, born and raised in Albuquerque’s South Valley. After

RAIL RUNNER EXPRESS

graduating from Rio Grande High School, he attended the University of New Mexico where he completed a bachelor’s degree in computer science, with a concentration in graphic design.

Communication is key to Trujillo’s job. He interacts with locals, tourists and, as mentioned, people from other countries.

The trick, says Trujillo, is to have good, “EI,” emotional intelligence. “I know that if I have empathy, tolerance and patience, I will be able to help them,” he said. “I have to be able to let our passengers know that we understand them on a personal or professional level.”

When his workday is done, Trujillo said he takes time to reflect on the uniqueness of his Ticket Agent Sheldon Trujillo job.

Photo by Allyne Clarke “The scenery that the rails run through are beautiful and dramatic in certain areas,” he said. “If you ride the Rail Runner you can see something new just about every day. There’s never a dull moment on the train.”

Trujillo said he would highly recommend working for the New Mexico Rail Runner Express, whether it is as a ticket agent, conductor, engineer or any other position.

Wet Your Whistle continued from page 6

Delicious chocolate dipped strawberries available everyday!

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www.nmrailrunner.com | www.travelnewmex.com | SPRING 2016

garage where the pigeons had to be removed before the brewing could begin. The brothers, Sam and George, also appear to have historic interests. Their Patriot Porter is described as a 1700s American version of “working class beer” from England.

More breweries are planning to open downtown taprooms in the near future, and most of the existing breweries are planning expansion, says John Fraser, a Nebraska transplant who intentionally moved to New Mexico to work his way up the brewery vat into ownership.

Fraser started on the bottling line at Santa Fe Brewing Company and moved on to brewing at Second Street Brewery in Santa Fe before his plans changed and he started teaching school.

However, he still follows the business closely and has seen a significant change in New Mexico’s brewery business model.

“This is a proven industry,” he says. “When I came here the model was to work at a brewery as an apprentice to learn the business, then start small and buy used equipment.

Today, these new breweries are all well-funded and starting out with new equipment.” Community colleges also teach brewing these days and students even compete in food truck competitions.

ABQ RIDE connects Rail Runner passengers to the Nob Hill taverns, where one can enjoy the products of Bosque Brewing,

Tractor Brewing, and Kelly’s.

Farther up the Central bus route is Il Vicino. The brewery district along Candelaria is connected to the rest of the city via bike path.

So whether you think of local breweries as the “Frontier of Beer,” or a proven industry, there are plenty of places to wet your whistle all across the foam-soaked Land of Enchantment.

Salud!

Winter warmers are served regularly by New Mexico’s beer industry. Photo by Martin Frentzel.

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Patio Dining at its Finest, Church Street Cafe!

Tucked away in a historic house on Church Street in Old Town is a treasure of sumptuous smells and tastes of New Mexico comidas. This is Church Street Café, a natural for tourist and well known to locals.

Owner Marie Coleman maintains the authentic taste of recipes handed down for four generations on the Spanish side of Coleman’s family including calabacitas (squash, onions and chiles), quellites (spinach), carne adovado (baked pork marinated in red chile), posole (a hominy-corn speciality), contemporary-style chiles rellenos (chiles stuffed with cheese) and old-fashion rellenos (shredded pork and cheese battered and fried), plus of course sopaipillas.

When you enter Church Street Café you immediately sense the authentic ambiance that fills the rooms. Oh, if these walls could talk what a story they would tell! Coleman acquired the property in 1993. Built in 1709, the house and land had been in the same family for the previous 284 years. Coleman had the property restored and used many of the original objects and recycled them to a useful purpose. For example a doorknob became a chimney damper, and wood removed from the old ceilings were used to build bathroom

During 2007 and 2008, flying at alarmingly low altitudes and slow speeds, Adriel Heisey leaned out the door of his light plane, and holding his camera with both hands, re-photographed some of the Southwest’s most significant archaeological sites—the same sites photographed in 1929 by Charles Lindbergh and his new bride Anne.

stalls. Dine outside in the garden patio under a grand old cottonwood or inside the cozy interior.

Coleman welcomes new visitors from the train. “It’s good for us” and “we’re good for its passengers.”

Breakfast, Lunch or Dinner!

Our featured specialties handed down for four generations include…

• Carne Adovada al Horno (oven cooked pork marinated in red chile).

• Calabacitas (squash, onions and chiles).

• Old Fashion Rellenos (shredded pork and cheese battered and fried). and much more!

2111 Church St. NW Old Town Albuquerque, NM, 87104

Monday-Thursday 8am-9pm, Friday & Saturday 8am-10pm and Sunday 8am-4pm 505-247-8522

Dine on the front or back patio or inside the historic Old Town “Casa de Ruiz”, built circa 1706.

Museum of Indian Arts and Culture Museum Hill off Old Santa Fe Trail, Santa Fe, New Mexico | (505) 476-1269 | indianartsandculture.org |

LEFT: Charles A. and Anne Morrow Lindbergh, White House Ruin, Canyon de Chelly (detail), 1929. Museum of Indian Arts and Culture / Laboratory of Anthropology, Cat. No. 130246.

RIGHT: Adriel Heisey, White House Ruin, Canyon de Chelly (detail), 2008. © Adriel Heisey.

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“I’m here today thanks to my doctors and nurses at UNM Children’s Hospital.”

— Ethan L. cancer patient

Weekday Schedule LUNES A VIERNES

Schedule Effective January 1st, 2016 Horario efectivo a partir del 1 de enero del 2016

Monday through Friday lunes a viernes

Shown are departure times, unless otherwise noted.

Horario demuestra tiempos de salida a no ser que se indique lo contrario.

ESTACIONES DE TREN

READING THE SCHEDULE 1. Decide whether you are going north (at top) or south (at bottom).

2. On the left-hand side, find the station from which you are leaving.

3. Read across to find the times the Rail Runner departs from that station.

4. From there, read down to find what time the Rail Runner will arrive at the station to which you are traveling.

COMO LEER EL HORARIO 1. Decida si va a ir hacia el norte o hacia el sur 2. A la izquierda, busque la estación de donde va a salir 3. Lea hacia la derecha hasta encontrar la hora que el tren sale de la estación de su preferencia 4. De alli, lea hacia abajo hasta encontrar la hora que el tren llega a la estación de su preferencia

Northbound / Hacia el Norte

#502

#504

#102 EXPRESS

#506

#508

#510

#512

#514

#516

#518

#520

Belen

–

–

5:39A

6:35A

8:04A

–

3:40P

–

5:51P

7:01P

7:57P

Los Lunas

–

–

5:49A

6:46A

8:15A

–

3:51P

–

6:01P

7:12P

8:08P

TRAIN STATIONS

Isleta Pueblo

–

–

6:02A

6:59A

8:27A

–

4:04P

–

6:16P

7:26P

8:22P

Bernalillo County

–

–

6:10A

7:06A

8:35A

–

4:11P

–

6:29P

7:35P

8:31P

Downtown ABQ

4:32A

5:02A

6:22A

7:19A

8:42A

9:35A

4:26P

5:34P

6:48P

7:42P

8:38P

Montaño

4:41A

5:11A

–

7:29A

–

9:44A

4:35P

5:43P

6:58P

–

–

Los Ranchos / JC

4:47A

5:17A

6:34A

7:36A

–

9:50A

4:41P

5:49P

7:06P

–

–

Sandia Pueblo

4:52A

5:22A

–

7:42A

–

9:55A

4:46P

5:54P

7:12P

–

–

Downtown Bernalillo

5:01A

5:31A

–

7:52A

–

10:03A

4:54P

6:07P

7:26P

–

–

Sandoval / US 550

5:05A

5:35A

6:46A

7:58A

–

10:08A

4:59P

6:12P

7:31P

–

–

Kewa

5:25A

5:55A

7:05A

8:18A

–

10:28A

5:19P

6:34P

7:50P

–

–

SF County / NM 599

5:48A

6:18A

7:24A

8:39A

–

10:51A

5:43P

6:57P

8:13P

–

–

South Capitol

6:08A

6:38A

7:40A

8:54A

–

11:11A

5:58P

7:17P

8:33P

–

–

Santa Fe Depot

6:13A

6:43A

7:45A

8:59A

–

11:16A

6:03P

7:22P

8:38P

–

–

READ DOWN LEA HACIA ABAJO

ESTACIONES DE TREN

866-795-RAIL (7245) www.nmrailrunner.com When Ethan was just 18 months old he came to UNM Children’s Hospital, where we found he had a tumor the size of a baseball. So began his multi-year treatment by our team of pediatric cancer experts. They are trained to focus on the unique needs of children — because every child we see deserves special treatment.

Learn more about Ethan’s story at UNMHSLifeStories.org.

Customer Service Hrs. Mon.-Fri. 5am-10pm Sat. & Sun. 7am-10pm Horas de Servicio al Cliente: lunes a viernes 5am - 10pm, sábado y domingo 7am - 10pm.

Shown are departure time unless otherwise noted #101 #517 #519 #521 EXPRESS

#501

#503

#507

#509

#511

#513

#515

Santa Fe Depot

–

–

5:39A

7:13A

1:02P

–

4:15P

5:04P

5:30P

6:46P

9:00P

South Capitol

–

–

5:43A

7:18A

1:07P

–

4:20P

5:09P

5:35P

6:51P

9:05P

SF County / NM 599

–

–

6:01A

7:37A

1:26P

–

4:39P

5:26P

5:54P

7:10P

9:24P

Kewa

–

–

6:19A

7:55A

1:44P

–

4:57P

–

6:12P

7:28P

9:42P

Sandoval / US 550

–

–

6:38A

8:14A

2:03P

–

5:16P

6:02P

6:31P

7:47P

10:01P

Downtown Bernalillo

–

–

6:43A

8:18A

2:07P

–

5:20P

–

6:35P

7:51P

10:05P

TRAIN STATIONS

CONTACT/CONTACTO

Southbound / Hacia el Sur

Sandia Pueblo

–

–

6:52A

8:27A

2:16P

–

5:29P

–

6:44P

8:00P

10:14P

Los Ranchos / JC

–

–

6:57A

8:32A

2:21P

–

5:34P

6:14P

6:49P

8:05P

10:19P

Montaño

–

–

7:02A

8:37A

2:26P

–

5:39P

–

6:54P

8:10P

10:24P

Downtown ABQ

4:45A

5:30A

7:10A

8:45A

2:37P

4:30P

5:50P

6:25P

7:02P

8:18P

10:32P

Bernalillo County

4:53A

5:41A

7:19A

–

2:45P

4:38P

5:57P

–

7:09P

–

–

Isleta Pueblo

5:01A

5:49A

7:27A

–

2:52P

4:45P

6:06P

–

7:17P

–

–

Los Lunas

5:13A

6:06A

7:39A

–

3:05P

4:58P

6:22P

–

7:31P

–

–

Belen

5:24A

6:17A

7:50A

–

3:15P

5:08P

6:33P

–

7:42P

–

–

READ DOWN LEA HACIA ABAJO

Designated QUIET CAR Service Only cars nearest to locomotive are Quiet Cars

0:00

Train arrives but does not continue

Tren llega hasta este punto pero no continua

Means train does not stop

Significa el tren no hace parada

16

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17

Columbus Day

Monday, October 10, 2016 - REGULAR WEEKDAY SCHEDULE

Holiday Schedule

Weekend Schedule

Veterans Day

FIN DE SEMANA

Friday, November 11, 2016 - SUNDAY SCHEDULE

New Year's Day

Saturday

Shown are departure times, unless otherwise noted.

sabado

Horario demuestra tiempos de salida a no ser que se indique lo contrario.

ESTACIONES DE TREN

Northbound Saturday / Sabado Hacia el Norte

ESTACIONES DE TREN

#703

#705

#707

#709

#711

Santa Fe Depot

–

10:44A

3:27P

–

8:12P

10:07P

10:43P

South Capitol

–

10:49A

3:32P

–

8:17P

10:12P

#704

#706

#708

#710

Belen

8:20A

1:04P

5:49P

7:44P

10:33P

Los Lunas

8:30A

1:14P

5:59P

7:54P

Isleta Pueblo

8:41A

1:25P

6:10P

8:05P

10:54P

SF County / NM 599

–

11:05A

3:48P

–

8:33P

10:28P

Bernalillo County

8:48A

1:32P

6:17P

8:12P

11:01P

Kewa

–

11:23A

4:06P

–

8:51P

10:46P

Downtown ABQ

8:58A

1:42P

6:27P

8:22P

11:09P

Sandoval / US 550

–

11:41A

4:24P

–

9:09P

11:04P

Monday, December 26, 2016 - SUNDAY SCHEDULE

Independence Day

6:36P

8:31P

–

Downtown Bernalillo

–

11:44A

4:27P

–

9:12P

11:07P

6:42P

8:37P

–

Sandia Pueblo

–

11:52A

4:35P

–

9:20P

11:15P

Monday, July 4, 2016 - SATURDAY SCHEDULE

Sandia Pueblo

9:18A

2:02P

6:47P

8:42P

–

Los Ranchos / JC

–

11:57A

4:40P

–

9:25P

11:20P

Downtown Bernalillo

9:26A

2:10P

6:55P

8:50P

–

Montaño

–

12:03P

4:46P

–

9:31P

11:26P

Labor Day

Sandoval / US 550

9:29A

2:13P

6:58P

8:53P

–

Downtown ABQ

7:28A

12:12P

4:57P

6:48P

9:40P

11:34P

Kewa

9:47A

2:31P

7:16P

9:11P

–

Bernalillo County

7:38A

12:22P

5:07P

6:58P

9:50P

–

SF County / NM 599

10:08A

2:52P

7:37P

9:32P

–

Isleta Pueblo

7:45A

12:29P

5:14P

7:05P

9:57P

–

South Capitol

10:24A

3:08P

7:53P

9:48P

–

Los Lunas

7:56A

12:40P

5:25P

7:16P

10:08P

–

Santa Fe Depot

10:29A

3:13P

7:58P

9:53P

–

Belen

8:06A

12:50P

5:35P

7:26P

10:18P

–

–

READ DOWN

Southbound Sunday / Domingo Hacia el Sur

#703

#705

#709

Santa Fe Depot

–

10:44A

3:27P

8:12P

South Capitol

–

10:49A

3:32P

8:17P

#702

#704

#706

TRAIN STATIONS

Belen

8:20A

1:04P

5:49P

Los Lunas

8:30A

1:14P

5:59P

Isleta Pueblo

8:41A

1:25P

6:10P

SF County / NM 599

–

11:05A

3:48P

8:33P

Bernalillo County

8:48A

1:32P

6:17P

Kewa

–

11:23A

4:06P

8:51P

Downtown ABQ

8:58A

1:42P

6:27P

Sandoval / US 550

–

11:41A

4:24P

9:09P

Montaño

9:07A

1:51P

6:36P

Downtown Bernalillo

–

11:44A

4:27P

9:12P

Los Ranchos / JC

9:13A

1:57P

6:42P

Sandia Pueblo

–

11:52A

4:35P

9:20P

Sandia Pueblo

9:18A

2:02P

6:47P

Los Ranchos / JC

–

11:57A

4:40P

9:25P

Downtown Bernalillo

9:26A

2:10P

6:55P

Montaño

–

12:03P

4:46P

9:31P

Sandoval / US 550

9:29A

2:13P

6:58P

Downtown ABQ

7:28A

12:12P

4:57P

9:40P

Kewa

9:47A

2:31P

7:16P

Bernalillo County

7:38A

12:22P

5:07P

–

SF County / NM 599

10:08A

2:52P

7:37P

Isleta Pueblo

7:45A

12:29P

5:14P

–

South Capitol

10:24A

3:08P

7:53P

Los Lunas

7:56A

12:40P

5:25P

–

Santa Fe Depot

10:29A

3:13P

7:58P

Belen

8:06A

12:50P

5:35P

–

READ DOWN

LEA HACIA ABAJO

The Río Metro Regional Transit District is committed to its Title VI obligations. We do not discriminate on the basis of race, color or national origin in the delivery of service. To obtain more information on our nondiscrimination obligations or to file a Title VI complaint, contact us at 809 Copper Avenue NW, ABQ, NM 87102.

El Río Metro Regional Transit District esta comprometido a sus obligaciones con Title VI. No discriminamos a base de raza, color o origen nacional al desempeñar nuestro servicio. Para obtener más información sobre nuestra obligación con Title VI o para presentar una queja, favor de contactarnos en 809 Copper NW, ABQ, NM 87102. www.nmrailrunner.com | www.travelnewmex.com | SPRING 2016

New Year’s Eve

Saturday, December 31, 2016 - SATURDAY SCHEDULE

Monday, September 5, 2016 - NO SERVICE

Fares

SYSTEM MAP Santa Fe Depot

(Receive Discount Online)

South Capitol

HOW TO CALCULATE YOUR FARE

#701

TRAIN STATIONS

READ DOWN

18

Day After Christmas

1:57P

ESTACIONES DE TREN

Sunday, December 25, 2016 - NO SERVICE

Monday, May 30, 2016 - NO SERVICE

1:51P

Northbound Sunday / Domingo Hacia el Norte

Christmas Day

Memorial Day

9:13A

LEA HACIA ABAJO

Friday, November 25, 2016 - SATURDAY SCHEDULE

Monday, February 15, 2016 - REGULAR WEEKDAY SCHEDULE

9:07A

ESTACIONES DE TREN

Day After Thanksgiving

Presidents’ Day

Montaño

LEA HACIA ABAJO

domingo

Martin Luther King, Jr. Day

Los Ranchos / JC

READ DOWN

Sunday

TRAIN STATIONS

Thursday, November 24, 2016 - NO SERVICE

Monday, January 18, 2016 - SUNDAY SCHEDULE

Southbound Saturday / Sabado Hacia el Sur

#701

#702

TRAIN STATIONS

Thanksgiving Day

Friday, January 1, 2016 - NO SERVICE

Zia Road

Step 1: Count the number of zones Count the number of zones through which you will travel.

Step 2: Pick the type of fare you need Do you want a one-way ticket, a day pass, or a monthly or annual pass? Are you eligible for a reduced fare?

Step 3: Check the chart below and see how much your fare is

Santa Fe Co. NM 599

Kewa Pueblo

FULL FARE 1 zone 2 zones 3 zones 4 zones 5 zones 6 zones

one-way $2 $3 $5 $8 $9 $10

day pass $3 $4 $6 $9 $10 $11

monthly pass $39 $55 $72 $105 $110 $121

annual pass $385 $550 $715 $1045 $1100 $1210

REDUCED FARE 1 zone 2 zones 3 zones 4 zones 5 zones 6 zones

one-way $1 $1 $2 $4 $4 $5

day pass $2 $2 $3 $6 $7 $8

monthly pass $19 $28 $36 $52 $55 $61

annual pass $187 $275 $352 $517 $550 $605

Sandoval Co. / US 550

REDUCED FARES ARE AVAILABLE TO • Youth ages 10-17 • Students with a valid student ID • Seniors age 62+ • Medicare Card holders • People with disabilities who show: - An NM Motor Vehicle Department notification - A letter from doctor indicating the disability (with exp. date) - An ABQ RIDE Honored Citizen Card - A Santa Fe Ride Card or Santa Fe Trails Half Fare Card - A disabled veteran ID card

Children

9 and under ride free!

Downtown Bernalillo

Sandia Pueblo Los Ranchos Journal Center Montaño Downtown Albuquerque Bernalillo Co. Isleta Pueblo

Los Lunas Belen Station Coming Soon

www.nmrailrunner.com | www.travelnewmex.com | SPRING 2016

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21

Santa Fe Trails (505) 955-2001 santafenm.gov

Santa Fe Pick Up City of Santa Fe (505) 231-2573 santafenm.gov

Taos Express (505) 629-4725 (866) 206-0754 taosexpress.com ncrtd.org

NM Park & Ride (866) 551-7433 nmparkandride.com

*

Please contact the connection provider for fares.

ABQ RIDE Route 222 - Weekdays to the South Valley, VA Hospital, Kirtland Air Force Base and the airport business district. Can also be used to access the Albuquerque International Sunport for passengers coming from and going to Valencia County.

Rio Metro Route 504 - Weekdays to Downtown ABQ. Departs the station at 4:45 a.m. Bus is timed to meet the nortbound train from Downtown ABQ at 5:02 a.m.

Rio Metro Route 505-B - Weekdays to Los Lunas and Belen before the first southbound train.

Bernalillo County Station

ABQ RIDE Route 766 - (Rapid Ride Red Line) Express route to access Old Town, the ABQ BioPark, UNM, Nob Hill and Uptown.

Located in front of the building.

ABQ RIDE Route 777 - (Rapid Ride Green Line) Express route to access UNM, Nob Hill, and the foothills near Tramway. Located in front of the building.

ABQ RIDE Route 66 - Access to locations along Central Ave. including Central & Unser Park & Ride, City and County buildings, UNM and EXPO NM. Located in front of the building.

ABQ RIDE Route 40 - (The D-RIDE) Free downtown circulator that runs every 7 minutes Monday- Friday.

ABQ RIDE Route 53 - To Isleta Blvd, the Albuquerque Zoo and the National Hispanic Cultural Center.

ABQ RIDE Route 217 - To Central New Mexico Community College (CNM) and Kirtland Air Force Base.

ABQ RIDE Route 250 - Airport Express. Direct route to the Albuquerque International Sunport.

Rio Metro Route 505-B - Weekdays to Isleta Pueblo, Los Lunas and Belen. Bus leaves daily at 6:25 a.m. Board this route at Bus Bay “N”.

Other ABQ RIDE Routes - There are nearly 40 other ABQ RIDE bus routes that get you just about anywhere in the city.

Downtown Albuquerque Station

ABQ RIDE Route 157 - To Cottonwood Mall, Coronado Center, ABQ Uptown and Kirkland Air Force Base.

Montaño Station

Rio Metro Route 505-B - Weekdays to Albuquerque, Los Lunas and Belen before the first southbound train run.

ABQ RIDE Route 251 - Weekdays to the Journal Center business district, Century 24 Theatre, Cottonwood Mall, Intel and Rio Rancho.

Los Ranchos/Journal Center Station

Sandia Resort & Casino Shuttle Meets every train, seven days a week.

Sandia Pueblo Station

Rio Metro Route 204 - Weekdays to Bernalillo, northern Rio Rancho, Zia Pueblo, San Ysidro, Jemez Pueblo and Jemez Springs.

Rio Metro Route 202 - Weekedays to Bernalillo, Rio Rancho, Santa Ana Pueblo, Algodones, Santo Domingo Pueblo, Cochiti Pueblo and the Town of Cohiti Lake.

Rio Metro Route 201 - Weekdays to Bernalillo and Enchanted Hills.

Hollywood Casino Shuttle at San Felipe Meets northbound trains 7 days a week. Call for shuttle times.

Route 505-A - Weekday express service to Downtown Albuquerque before the first southbound train of the morning.

Santa Ana Star Casino Shuttle Meets every train, seven days a week.

Sandoval County/US 550 Station

North Central Regional Transit District (NCRTD) (866) 206-0754 (505) 629-4725 ncrtd.org

Buffalo Thunder Resort & Casino Shuttle (505) 819-2292 buffalothunderresort.com

Santa Ana Star Casino Shuttle (505) 771-5336 (505) 867-0000 Hollywood Casino Shuttle at santaanastar.com San Felipe Sandia Resort & Casino (505) 991-5247 Shuttle (877) 529-2946 (505) 796-7500 sanfelipecasino.com sandiacasino.com

Rio Metro Regional Transit District (866) 795-7245 riometro.org

SYSTEM MAP

Belen

Los Lunas

Station Coming Soon

Socorro Shuttle (575) 835-1501 socorronm.gov

Rio Metro Valencia (505) 352-3595 riometro.org

Isleta Pueblo

Bernalillo Co.

Downtown Albuquerque

Montaño

Los Ranchos Journal Center

Sandia Pueblo

Downtown Bernalillo

Sandoval Co. / US 550

Kewa Pueblo

Santa Fe Co. NM 599

Zia Road

South Capitol

Santa Fe Depot

Isleta Resort & Casino Shuttle (877) 747-5382 isleta.com

ABQ RIDE (505) 243-7433 myabqride.com

*

Rio Metro Route 206 - Weekday service for Belen residents to connect to the Rail Runner station and other nearby work centers during peak commute times.

Rio Metro Dial-A-Ride - Weekday curb-to-curb service in Valencia County. Rides must be requested by 12 NOON one business day prior.

Call 505-352-3595. $1 each way.

Rio Metro Route 504 - Weekdays to Downtown ABQ. Departs the station at 3:55 a.m. Bus is timed to meet the nortbound train from Downtown ABQ at 5:02 a.m.

Socorro Shuttle - Service to Socorro Weekdays and Sundays.

Belen Station

Rio Metro Route 209 - Weekdays between Los Lunas Transportation Center and the UNM Valencia Campus. Connects to Route 207.

Rio Metro Dial-A-Ride - Weekday curb-to-curb service in Valencia County. Rides must be requested by 12 NOON one business day prior.

Call 505-352-3595. $1 each way.

Rio Metro Route 504 - Weekdays to Downtown ABQ. Departs the station at 4:15 a.m. Bus is timed to meet the nortbound train from Downtown ABQ at 5:02 a.m.

Rio Metro Route 505-B - Weekdays to Belen before the first southbound train.

Rio Metro Route 207 - Weekday service for Los Lunas residents to connect to the Rail Runner station and other nearby work centers during peak commute times. Connects to Route 209.

Los Lunas

Isleta Hotel & Casino Shuttle - A bus meets every train, seven days a week.

Rio Metro Route 504 - Weekdays to Downtown ABQ. Departs the station at 4:35 a.m. Bus is timed to meet the nortbound train from Downtown ABQ at 5:02 a.m.

Rio Metro Route 505-B - Weekdays to Los Lunas and Belen before the first southbound train. Board this bus at the Isleta Casino south parking lot.

For more information, fares and connections not listed, please contact these providers:

Hollywood Casino Shuttle at San Felipe Meets southbound trains 7 days a week. Call for shuttle times.

Rio Metro Route 202 - Weekdays to Bernalillo, Rio Rancho, Santa Ana Pueblo, Algodones, Santo Domingo Pueblo, Cochiti Pueblo and the town of Cochiti Lake.

Kewa Station at Santo Domingo Pueblo

NM Park & Ride Purple Route - Weekday direct connection between the Rail Runner and Los Alamos.

NM Park & Ride Purple Shuttle Route to connect from the first run of the morning on the NM Park & Ride Purple Bus Route to the South Capitol & Santa Fe Depot Stations. Weekday departure at 5:11 a.m.

* *

Santa Fe Trails Route 22 - Weekdays to Santa Fe Community College, Rancho Viejo and IAIA.

NCRTD Route 270 - Weekdays to the NM Department of Corrections, Oñate Complex (National Guard) and the Santa Fe County Detention Center.

NM 599 Station Shuttle - Weekdays to Bisbee Court, the New Mexican Plaza, Jaguar, Camino Entrada, and Santa Fe Place Mall.

Meets most trains.

*

Santa Fe County/NM 599 Station

NCRTD Mountain Trail Route – Daily service to Ski Santa Fe with stops throughout downtown and at 10,000 Waves.

Operates 9/26/15 – 4/3/16 • 7/1/16 - 8/31/16.

*

NCRTD Santa Fe to Taos - Weekdays between Santa Fe and Taos.

NCRTD Route 290 - Weekdays between Santa Fe, Eldorado, Galisteo, Stanley, Moriarty and Edgewood.

NCRTD Route 280 - Weekdays between Santa Fe, Eldorado, Galisteo, Stanley, Moriarity and Edgewood.

NCRTD Route 220 - Weekdays between Santa Fe, Tesuque, Pojoaque and Española.

NCRTD Route 200 - Weekdays between Santa Fe and Española.

NCRTD Route 160 - Weekdays between Santa Fe, Española and Santa Clara Pueblo.

NM Park & Ride Blue Route Weekdays to Santa Fe, Pojoaque and Los Alamos.

* NM Park & Ride Red Route * and Santa Fe. Weekdays to Espanola, Pojoaque NM Park & Ride Orange Route * Weekdays between Las Vegas and Santa Fe.

South Capitol Shuttle - Weekdays to St. Vincent Hospital, the Rodeo Business Park and the District 5 DOT office.

*

Santa Fe Trails Route 4 (Southside) - To the Santa Fe Convention Center, City and County offices, Santa Fe High School and Santa Fe Place Mall.

Santa Fe Trails Route 2 (Cerrillos Road) To the West Capitol Complex, the New Mexico School for the Deaf and Santa Fe Place Mall. (connect here to SF Outlet Mall (Route 26).

South Capitol Station

NCRTD Taos Express - To Española and the Town of Taos.

Saturdays and Sundays only.

*

Santa Fe Trails Route M (Museum Hill) Access to the Museum of Spanish Art, Museum of Indian Arts & Culture, Museum of International Folk Art and the Wheelwright Museum of the American Indian.

Santa Fe Trails Route 4 (Southside) To the Santa Fe Convention Center, City and County offices, Santa Fe Place Mall and Santa Fe High School.

Santa Fe Trails Route 2 (Cerrillos Road) To the West Capitol Complex, the New Mexico School for the Deaf and Santa Fe Place Mall. (connect here to SF Outlet Mall (Route 26).

Buffalo Thunder Resort & Casino Shuttle Shuttle stops on Guadalupe right next to Tomasita’s Restaurant.

Shuttle meets train daily.

Santa Fe Pick Up - To the Santa Fe Plaza, Downtown Santa Fe, Canyon Road and Museum Hill. Operates daily. Turn left when exiting the train to the shuttle and look for the red truck sign.

Santa Fe Depot Station

All our bus connections are FREE unless otherwise noted

Rail & Bus Connections Guide

Isleta Pueblo Station

Schedule of Events ONGOING EVENTS Santa Fe Farmers Market Santa Fe Railyard Every Saturday year-round 8 a.m. – 1 p.m.

Exit the train at the Santa Fe Depot.

(505) 983-4098 santafefarmersmarket.com Railyard Artisan Market Santa Fe Railyard Every Sunday year-round 10 a.m. – 4 p.m.

Exit the train at the Santa Fe Depot.

(505) 983-4098 artmarketsantafe.com Santa Fe Artists Market Santa Fe Railyard Park Saturdays through November 8 a.m. – 1 p.m.

Exit the train at the Santa Fe Depot.

(505) 414-8544 santafeartistsmarket.com

APRIL ALL MONTH

El Museo Winter Market El Museo Cultural, Santa Fe Saturdays, 8 a.m. – 3 p.m.; Sundays 9 a.m. – 4 p.m. through May 1 Exit the train at the Santa Fe Depot; El Museo is just steps away from the station.

(505) 992-0591 elmuseocultural.org ALL MONTH

Only in Albuquerque Exhibit Albuquerque Museum Tuesday-Sunday, 9 a.m. – 5 p.m.

Exit the train at Downtown ABQ and board ABQ RIDE Route 66 or Rapid Ride Red Line westbound to Central and Rio Grande, then take a short walk north to the museum.

(505) 243-7255 cabq.gov ALL MONTH

Downtown Growers’ Market Robinson Park, Albuquerque Saturdays, April-November 8 a.m. – Noon Exit the train at Downtown ABQ and take the short walk to 8th St. & Central.

(505) 252-2959 downtowngrowers.com Rail Yards Market Blacksmith Shop, Albuquerque RailYard 1st – 4th Sundays, May-October 10 a.m. – 2 p.m.

Exit the train at Downtown ABQ and take the short walk south to 1st St. & Hazeldine.

(505) 600-1109 railyardsmarket.org

22

Flamenco: From Spain to New Mexico Museum of International Folk Art, Santa Fe Tuesday-Sunday, 10 a.m. – 5 p.m.

Exit the train at the Santa Fe Depot and take the Santa Fe Pick-Up shuttle to the museum.

(505) 476-1200 internationalfolkart.org APRIL 15-17

New Mexico International Auto Show Albuquerque Convention Center Friday Noon – 10 p.m., Saturday 10 a.m. – 10 p.m., Sunday 10 a.m. – 6 p.m.

Exit the train at Downtown ABQ and take a short walk north to 2nd St. andTijeras Ave. (505) 768-4575 newmexicoautoshow.com

www.nmrailrunner.com | www.travelnewmex.com | SPRING 2016

p

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Schedule of Events APRIL 16

Fiestas de Albuquerque OldTown Albuquerque Noon – 5 p.m.

Exit the train at Downtown ABQ and board ABQ RIDE Route 66 or Rapid Ride Red Line westbound to Central and Rio Grande.

(505) 768-3556 cabq.gov

MAY ALL MONTH

Downtown Albuquerque Walking Tours Meet at the corner of 1st & Central, Albuquerque Saturdays, 10-11:30 a.m.

Exit the train at Downtown ABQ and walk west to 1st St. and Central Ave. albuqhistsoc.org

APRIL 16

ALL MONTH

Japanese Cultural Festival Santa Fe Community Convention Center 9:30 a.m. – 5 p.m.

Exit the train at the Santa Fe Depot and walk north to W. Marcy St. and Grant Ave. santafejin.org

Along the Pecos Photography Exhibit New Mexico History Museum, Santa Fe 10 a.m. – 5 p.m. Daily Exit the train at the Santa Fe Depot and walk or take the Santa Fe Pick-Up Shuttle toW. Palace Ave. and Lincoln Ave. (505) 476-5100 nmhistorymuseum.org

APRIL 18-24

Albuquerque Film & Music Experience KiMoTheatre, Albuquerque Times Vary Exit the train at Downtown ABQ and walk 5 blocks west to Central & 5th St. (505) 265-7866 abqfilmx.com APRIL 23

Earth Day Celebration & Children’s Seed Festival Albuquerque Botanical Gardens 10 a.m. – 2 p.m.

Exit the train at Downtown ABQ and board ABQ RIDE Route 66 or Rapid Ride Red Line westbound to Central & New York.

(505) 848-7180 cabq.gov

MAY 6-7

Canyon Road Spring Art Festival Canyon Road, Santa Fe All Day Exit the train at the Santa Fe Depot and take the Santa Fe Pick-Up Shuttle to Canyon Rd. visitcanyonroad.com MAY 14-15

Santa Fe Symphony’s Beethoven Festival Lensic Performing Arts Center, Santa Fe Times Vary Exit the train at the Santa Fe Depot and walk north to W. San Francisco and Burro Alley.

(505) 988-7050 lensic.org MAY 20-22

Outside Bike & Brew Fort Marcy Park, Santa Fe Times Vary Exit the train at the Santa Fe Depot and walk northeast to Bishops Lodge Rd. and Artist Rd. nmbeer.org

MAY 26 – JUNE 4

JUNE 11-12

ABQ Beer Week Various Locations, Albuquerque Many breweries are a short walk or transit ride from the Downtown ABQ Station. nmrxbrewtour.com abqbeerweek.com

Challenge NM Arts & Crafts Show Historic Santa Fe Plaza All Day Exit the train at the Santa Fe Depot and walk northeast to E. San Francisco St. and Lincoln Ave. (505) 988-7621 challengenewmexico.com

MAY 28-29

Native Treasures Indian Arts Festival Santa Fe Community Convention Center 10 a.m. – 5 p.m.

Exit the train at the Santa Fe Depot and walk north toW. Marcy St. and Grant Ave. (505) 982-7799 nativetreasures.org

JUNE 10-26

Currents New Media Festival Various Locations, Santa Fe Exit the train at the Santa Fe Depot.

Most venues are within a short walking distance of the station. currentsnewmedia.org JUNE 12-18

MAY 28-30

Northern NM Fine Arts & Crafts Guild E. Palace Ave. & Cathedral Pl., Santa Fe All Day Exit the train at the Santa Fe Depot and walk to E. Palace Ave. and Cathedral Pl. artsandcraftsguild.org MAY 29

ABQ Blues & Brews Sandia Resort & Casino 2-6 p.m.

Exit the train at the Sandia Pueblo Station and take the free shuttle. abqbluesandbrews.com

JUNE JUNE 3-5

Festival Flamenco Internacional de Albuquerque National Hispanic Cultural Center, Albuquerque Times Vary Exit the train at the Downtown ABQ Station and take ABQ RIDE Route 53 southbound to Bridge Blvd. and 8th St. (505) 246-2261 nationalinstituteofflamenco.org JUNE 18

Fantase Fest DeVargas Park, Santa Fe 6 p.m. – Midnight Exit the train at the Santa Fe Depot and walk north to S. Guadalupe St. and W. DeVargas St. creativesantafe.org

San Felipe de Neri Fiestas OldTown, Albuquerque Friday 6 p.m., Saturday 11 a.m. – 10 p.m., Sunday 11:30 a.m. – 5:30 p.m.

Exit the train at Downtown ABQ and board ABQ RIDE Route 66 or Rapid Ride Red Line westbound to Central and Rio Grande.

www.nmrailrunner.com | www.travelnewmex.com | SPRING 2016

23

RAIL RUNNER EXPRESS

p

Questions & Answers

How do I buy tickets?

Tickets can be purchased online at nmrailrunner.com, onboard the train from the ticket agents, or on the NMRX TIX app (available in spring 2016 for iPhone and Android).

We accept cash, debit and credit cards (except American Express).

Are discounted tickets available?

Reduced fares are available to youth ages 10-17, students with a valid ID, seniors age 62+, and people with disabilities. Children 9 and under ride free. Please see the fare information listed in this magazine for details and a list of acceptable ID cards. Discounted tickets are also available to groups of 25 or more through the Customer Service Department. Call (866) 795-7245 for information about group travel.

What is the Veterans Pass?

The Veterans Pass program allows veterans with a VHIC (VA card) to obtain an annual pass for the New Mexico Rail Runner Express at no cost. Passes are issued to eligible veterans at the Customer Service office Monday-Friday, 9 a.m. – 4 p.m. The program currently runs through December1, 2016. Call (866) 795-RAIL (7245) for more information on how to get the pass.

Is my ticket refundable if I don’t use it?

Tickets are non-refundable and non-transferable.

Can I buy a ticket for someone else?

Yes, you may purchase a ticket for another person from our online ticketing (nmrailrunner.com). You will need to email the ticket to the person you are buying it for; they can either print it out or show it to the ticket agent on their mobile device.

Is there parking available at the train stations?

Free onsite parking is available at all of the Rail Runner stations with the exception of Downtown ABQ and the Santa Fe Depot. Parking at Downtown ABQ and the Santa Fe Depot is available for a fee at adjacent parking facilities.

Are there restrooms on the train?

At least one restroom is available on every New Mexico Rail Runner Express train. Longer trains will have more than one restroom.

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www.nmrailrunner.com | www.travelnewmex.com | SPRING 2016

Can I bring or buy food on the train?

Passengers are welcome to bring and consume food and beverages (excluding alcohol) on the train. Food and beverages are not available for purchase on the train.

Can I charge my cell phone/laptop/tablet on the train?

Electrical outlets are available for passenger use at each of the tables on the train. Tables are located on the mezzanine and upper levels only.

How do I store my luggage or packages on the train?

Luggage or packages may be stored under the seat or in the overhead racks. Please do not block an aisle or take up an extra seat with luggage or packages.

Can I take my bicycle on the train? Is there a charge?

Bicycles are welcome on the train at no charge. Each New Mexico Rail Runner Express train car has space for up to 8 bicycles. Please store your bike in the designated storage area marked with a bicycle symbol.

Are pets allowed on the train?

Pets are not allowed onboard, only service animals.

Can I take a stroller on the train?

Strollers are welcome on the train. Please store large strollers in the bicycle storage area marked with a bicycle symbol.

Rail Runner Saves Passengers Money, Promotes Reading

By Martin Frentzel

There’s no need to buy a lottery ticket to bank a lot of extra money. Purchasing a New Mexico Rail Runner Express pass is a better bet, and the savings can be huge.

Fewer tires and tune-ups, less time and money spent at the gas pump, and time better spent on the phone or laptop while the Rail Runner cruises the landscape from Belen to Santa Fe. “Our goal here is to take as many miles as possible off the state’s roadways, and put those miles on the train,” says Jay Faught, former marketing director with the Rio

NEW APP MAKES RIDING EASIER It was years in development, but the New Mexico Rail Runner Express new phone application will save riders lots of time.

Release of the app should occur this spring.

It is very visual, and when riders download the app, they can obtain a pass with just a few clicks. This will speed up the ticketing process immensely. Computer users already have a convenient computer-based ticket process, but the app will make it unnecessary to print out a hard copy pass.

For more information, visit nmrailrunner.com.

continued on page 31

How old do children need to be to ride alone?

Children must be at least 10 years old to ride the train without a supervising adult.

What happens if I leave something on the train?

If you leave an item on the train, please contact our Customer Service office at 866-795-RAIL (7245), Monday-Friday 8 a.m – 5 p.m. Lost items are turned in to the Customer Service office and are held for 60 days. If you find an item on the train, please turn it in to a ticket agent or conductor.

Metro Regional Transit District. “We asked riders what they did with the money they were saving,” he says, “and some were putting their kids through college; others got rid of the second car, and were saving the money to go on vacation.”

When gas prices were higher, some riders were saving as much as $500 a month by using the train.

Public transportation also saves the state some of the money needed to fix potholes, replace road signs and repair damaged guard rails. The lost productivity when commuters are stuck in the I-25 traffic resulting from accidents can be significant for some companies.

Since July 2006, the New Mexico Rail Runner Express has taken more than 350 million passenger miles off the roadways and as a result reduced vehicle emissions, providing a positive impact on the communities and environment overall. The Rail Runner has also served over 9.5 million passengers; each passenger travels an average of 44.3 miles.

Reducing congestion in downtown Albuquerque and Santa Fe is another benefit to the largest cities along the Rail Runner corridor. It’s convenient to stroll the Plaza and restaurants in Santa Fe without searching for parking. In addition, bus service connects the Rail Runner to Museum

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How can I find out if the train is delayed?

There are several options for passengers to stay informed about the status of the train. Rider Alerts are posted on the home page of the Rail Runner website. You can sign up to receive text alerts for specific train routes and be notified of any delays longer than 10 minutes. Like us on Facebook and follow us on Twitter to receive updates about train delays and other information.

Can I use the train to get to the airport?

Passengers can travel between the Albuquerque International Sunport (ABQ) and the New Mexico Rail Runner Express using ABQ RIDE buses. Connections are available Monday-Saturday.

Visit nmrailrunner.com or call (866) 795-RAIL (7245) for a complete list of airport connections.

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25

Veteran Spent Her Career Taking Care of Soldiers

By Martin Frentzel It’s a straight forward motto: “Take Care of Soldiers, and Soldiers Will Take Care of You.” Retired M.Sgt. Valentina Aguilar-Garcia of Socorro, 54, has been living those words since she was 20 years old and joined the New Mexico National Guard. That initial enlistment resulted in 21 years of active duty, 27 years of service to her country, and tours of duty from Fort Bliss, Texas, to Washington, D.C. Her responsibility was training – informing troops ranging from privates to colonels about the training they needed, verifying what training they took, and making sure they had the paperwork to document their achievements.

“And when I started,” she says, “we did it all by hand.”

VETERANS GET A PASS Today, M.Sgt. Aguilar-Garcia is one of the thousands of veterans receiving treatment at the Raymond G. Murphy VA Medical Center in Albuquerque. She also is one of the veterans whose travel to the medical center is assisted by the New Mexico Rail Runner Express and the Rio Metro Regional Transit District.

She drives to the Belen Rail Runner Station in time to catch her 6:36 a.m. ride to the Bernalillo County Station near Rio Bravo in Albuquerque’s South Valley. Then she catches the bus to the VA, and retraces her tracks at 2:30 in the afternoon.

The trips are necessary because while she was in the service M.Sgt. Aguilar-Garcia injured her back jumping off a 2.5-ton truck with a pack and radio weighing 100 pounds. She weighed

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www.nmrailrunner.com | www.travelnewmex.com | SPRING 2016

about 112 pounds at the time.

Veterans receive free a Rail Runner annual pass if they have a VHIC card, or a VHIC report from the medical center.

In addition, the pass also provides free access to some of the rural and intercity public transportation Public transportation is a blessing for retired M.Sgt buses that provide Valentina Aguilar-Garcia of Socorro. service to the 14 Rail Photo by Martin Frentzel Runner stations from Belen to Santa Fe. This program was approved in 2014 and has been extended through December of 2016.

“The Veterans’ Rail Runner Pass has seen great success over the last year,” says Michael Jiron, project manager for the Veterans Transportation Initiative. “It took only four months before we reached more than 1,000 rides using the Veterans Rail Pass. Then at eight months, we saw a major increase.”

More than 5,800 passes have been issued to veterans as of the end of January, Giron says, resulting in more than 37,700 rides. Passes may be renewed at nine American Legion Posts from Santa Fe to Belen, and at Workforce Solutions offices in Bernalillo, Albuquerque and Los Lunas.

STAYING OFF THE STREETS Although M.Sgt. Aguilar-Garcia is retired, she continues to take care of soldiers through volunteer work. Her time is divided between several organizations, but at the top of the list is the Women Veterans of New Mexico. “That group works to keep women veterans off the streets,” she says.

Being homeless is not a choice veterans make, “but many vets fall on hard times because they don’t have family nearby and they don’t have friends who can help them.”

M.Sgt. Aguilar-Garcia can empathize with her fellow veterans because she lost part of her support group when her children moved from Socorro to Dallas and El Paso. “The kids used to drive me all the time to the VA Medical Center,” she says.

Now, however, this important role is often filled by public transportation buses and the Rail Runner. “It’s a blessing for me, without my kids.”

The Women Veterans of New Mexico also help provide recycled clothing and furniture, donated food, and housing to those who need assistance. Helping the women find training for their new civilian lives is another opportunity to take care of those soldiers. Unfortunately, many veterans don’t ask for help.

“It’s really gratifying to help those who don’t have the resources to get back on their feet,” says M.Sgt. Aguilar-Garcia, who now is the first woman to serve as Junior Vice Commander of the Disabled American Veterans in Socorro. Of course, she continues to take care of veterans, helping them obtain disability benefits as well as document their service. It’s just the way she lives her motto: Take Care of Soldiers, and Soldiers Will Take Care of You.

BICI Shares the Savings With Bicycle Riders

RAIL RUNNER EXPRESS

continued from page 11 of 1st Street and Central across from the Downtown Albuquerque Rail Runner Station. To become a member, individuals use an application available either through phones or the BICI website. Once they create an account and pay their membership fee, they use their account to check in and out bikes. When a user checks out a bike, a code is generated within the phone application or sent via text message. This code opens the lockbox which contains a key that opens the U-Lock attached to the bike.

“Albuquerque has one of the more affordable bike share programs in the country,” Hermanson says. “For example, in New York, users pay $150 a year for the program, and in Albuquerque, a one-year membership is only $25.”

COMPLETE YOUR TRIP

Due to those strong early numbers, Hermanson said expansion of BICI is already being planned. “We are hoping to include Santa Fe in the system. That way, you could take the Rail Runner to Santa Fe and then complete your trip on a bike.”

Members must be 18 years of age and have a credit or debit card. The first 90 minutes are free with your membership, and each additional hour is only $3. More information and about the bike model, Breezer Uptown, can be found at zagster.com/abq.

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www.nmrailrunner.com | www.travelnewmex.com | SPRING 2016

27

RAIL RUNNER EXPRESS

Santa Claran Hotel Casino Adds Tasty to Its Offerings in 2016

By Barb Armijo Española Valley’s local casino adds “tasty” to its list of amenities.

The Grill at the Santa Claran opened in late 2015.

The Grill at Santa Claran offers American and New Mexican cuisine for breakfast, lunch, dinner and dessert, The Grill is ideal for everything from business breakfasts to family-friendly dinners and romantic dining.

Offerings include a selection of fresh salads, hearty sandwiches and hot delicious plates straight from kitchen’s grill. Specialties include Huevos Rancheros, Prime Rib and Fish & Chips. The Grill at Santa Claran is open Sunday thru Wednesday: 8:00 a.m. to 9:00 p.m., and Thursday through Saturday: from 8:00 a.m. to 10:00 p.m.

With the addition of the new restaurant, The Santa Claran Hotel • Casino has shaped up to be a destination resort that meets the needs of both locals and visitors far and wide. Santa Clara Development Corporation, is the driving force behind the Santa Claran Hotel • Casino’s unique concept. The hotel and casino, combined with a Black Mesa Golf Club, the historic Puye Cliff Dwellings, Big Rock Bowling Center and Santa Clara Pueblo’s cultural events make the Santa Claran a place for families to reconnect or romance to be rekindled. There’s enough to do in the hotel and casino or just outside its doors.

The total southwest experience from the Santa Claran includes New Mexico historical attractions, great dining on site and nearby, gaming, shopping, a round of golf at the Black Mesa Golf Club in La Mesilla, N.M. All this and it is a 30-minute drive to Santa Fe and about 40 minutes to Taos.

“We envisioned that the hotel would be the home base for people to get out there and enjoy an authentic New Mexico vacation,” said Adelmo M. López, Marketing Brand Supervisor for the Santa Claran.

“Setting out to offer a lot of outside opportunities, in addition to big-time casino gaming, was no easy task, but thanks to Santa Clara Pueblo, we think we have a lot to offer our guests.”

First opened as Big Rock Casino • Bowl in 2001, and expanding in 2007 that led to the final remodel that is currently Santa Claran Hotel • Casino, which was completed in 2009. With that, the Santa Claran was born and has grown to be one of the most hospitable and beautiful destinations in New Mexico, despite the fact that it isn’t always mentioned in the same breath as the bigger venues.

But look out: The Santa Claran Hotel • Casino might not be such a hidden gem anymore. Locals flock there, and thanks to New Mexico’s booming movie industry, word is spreading. The Netflix hit “Longmire,” used the Santa Claran for various scenes it taped last summer. The attention it brought was great. We really hope other TV and movie productions will consider us,” said López.

Northern New Mexico surrounds the welcoming hotel, which sits in the center of Española. The seven story hotel is 124 rooms with 21

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suites, a seventh floor event space with panoramic views that will take your breath away. While the hotel is family friendly, its 16,000 square feet of meeting and event space, also makes it perfect for corporate meetings and events.

The architecture and the inside décor is a perfect mix of traditional pueblo and New Mexico style, and modern amenities that make it luxurious. There are balconies, a large indoor pool with sun deck and a 24-hour fitness center.

Big Rock Bowling Center is the only amenity that still carries the “Big Rock” name. It is a 24-lane center that hosts leagues and parties and is open seven days a week.

Other places to eat and drink inside the Casino is the Center Bar, serving cocktails and appetizers and inside the Hotel Lobby is the Java Lounge, which proudly serves Starbucks coffee.

Perhaps one of the most beautiful attractions, and one that the Santa Claran promotes through self-guided and guided tours from the hotel, is the Puye Cliff Dwellings, once the ancestral home of the Santa Clara people. This national historic landmark, features early pueblo architecture, an 1800s Harvey House and an awe-inspiring panoramic view of Northern New Mexico.

Getting back into the swing of things from the adventures at the Puye Cliff Dwellings might include golf at the Baxter Spann-designed 18-hole golf course, which has been ranked among America’s top 50

by Golf Magazine. The sandstone ridges and mountain vistas are truly something to behold.

In all, the once hidden treasure is now part of New Mexico’s big leagues for hospitality and tourism. It is hard to believe that Santa Claran Hotel • Casino will celebrate its fifteenth year anniversary in June. As its motto suggests, when you stay and play at the Santa Claran you “Escape to the beauty of the Southwest, experience the hospitality of Santa Clara Pueblo and discover more than you expected to find.”

For more information on any of the attractions, the hotel reservations and casino gaming at the Santa Claran, visit www.santaclaran.com.

www.nmrailrunner.com | www.travelnewmex.com | SPRING 2016

29

Guadalupe National Park

Carlsbad Events Microbrew Festival on the Pecos Third annual Microbrew Festival on

Nature’s playground is calling.

the Pecos features tastings from local breweries, live music, specialty food vendors and more.

May 14th

Star Party Come to the Carlsbad Caverns National Park for summer evenings of stargazing and fun at dusk.

Jun. 4th, Jul. 2nd, Aug. 6th, Sep. 3rd, Oct. 1st & 29th

Car-A-Fair Outdoor car show featuring stock and

RAIL RUNNER EXPRESS

Rail Runner Saves Passengers Money, Promotes Reading continued from page 25 Hill in the City Different, and to the Santa Fe Ski Area for winter adventures.

An additional community service the Rail Runner provides is assistance to the Read to Me book drive. During the last two years, the book drive collected a total of 103,000 children’s books for distribution to young readers. The total for 2015 was 53,000 books, says Riann Martinez, marketing specialist with the transit district, which promotes awareness of the program through its website and on-train communications.

The book drive is a City of Albuquerque Business Education Compact initiative. Books are collected each spring between February and March and then distributed just prior to summer vacation, Trax, the New Mexico Rail Runner Express mascot, helped kick-off the 2016 Read to Me Book says the city’s Paula Delap-Padilla. The effort Drive at Albuquerque’s Main Library. Photo by Riann Martinez promotes the city’s summer reading program. placed on ABQ Ride buses for young passengers to read “Our goal for this year is 60,000 books,” she says. while traveling. The last third of the books collected goes “We want to get enough for every child to have a book to to organizations that assist families and young children take home with them for the summer. And every child is throughout the metro. given a map so they know where their local library is.”

“This is a good way to get the books out and to support About a third of the books go to Title 1 schools in early childhood literacy,” she says. low-income parts of the city. A third of the books are also

modified vehicles of all makes, models and years. Sponsored by the Carlsbad Automotive Restoration Society (CARS).

June 4th

Dawn of the Bats Greet the day at dawn and witness hundreds of thousands of bats return to the cave entrance at the Carlsbad Caverns National Park.

July 17th

National Park Service Centennial

A personal approach to your life in balance.

To celebrate the 100th year of the NPS, the general entry fee at all National Park Properties will be waived. The Centennial Sunrise Service will allow visitors to view the sunrise from the top of the Guadalupe peak.

August 25th 30

www.nmrailrunner.com | www.travelnewmex.com | SPRING 2016

SECUNM.ORG | 800.983.7328 www.nmrailrunner.com | www.travelnewmex.com | SPRING 2016

31

SHOP LEARNPLAY

By Micah C. My name is Micah and I’m 25 years young living in Albuquerque, NM. I enjoy shooting, but let me tell you why, because it might not be the reason you think. When I shoot, it is not about the power trip that some people get holding a rifle, and it is not about throwing a Bill of Rights while I am open carrying at restaurants. I mean, you are well within your rights to do that, though you might not get your Bill of Rights back, so bring a spare.

I shoot because as I line the front sight into the rear sight and then onto the target, I’m not thinking about that I need to find a real job after I’m out of college this semester. I’m not thinking about the balance of my checking account after I withdraw this month’s rent and groceries. I’m not thinking about the fact that my insomnia is starting to catch up with me, or that I have a youth event that needs coordinating at the end of the month, or that I have to talk to my supervisor about the fact that I will not be working at the company anymore starting this summer.

Instead I’m focusing on the grip of my handgun, with my left hand gripped tight and pulling in while my right hand is gripped high and pushing out. I’m lost in the alignment of my sights as they’re centered on the red dot in the middle of the target. I’m praying that I finally get that trigger squeeze just right, and that I’ll finally stop shooting low left. The trigger breaks as I squeeze it like thin ice, the gun pushes up and back against my grip, and as I bring the target back I realize that yep, low left. At least the grouping is tight.

I do not know if you have a tattoo of Bloomberg and signed photo of Nancy Pelosi, or if you’ve committed the Constitution to memory, but I know shooting has helped me. After bringing that target back and realizing that yep, still a terrible shot, thinking about that job I need to find becomes a lot easier. Realizing that I don’t need to go in debt to afford groceries becomes a lot clearer, and planning that youth event is a lot more straightforward.

It might not be as useful for you as it was for me, but maybe you will visit an indoor shooting range, shoot, and think that you really just should have caught up on Downton Abby, because Maggie Smith is wonderful. That’s cool. Maybe though you will visit Calibers’ Indoor shooting range, shoot, and something will click. Maybe it’s the fact that it’s something you can lose yourself in. You might only think the mechanics behind it are interesting and end up grabbing a membership on your way out for the next time you visit Calibers indoor shooting range or just a super shooter card; which is basically like a frequent loyalty card for indoor shooting. Hey, you can’t learn to stop that flinch at home.

Calibers offers buy, sell, and trade; which a lot of people were not aware of. It is also quite convenient to shop online at CalibersUSA.com when I need to reload for my next indoor shooting visit.

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RAIL RUNNER EXPRESS

Takes a Team: Rail Runner Express Relies on People Power to Run Each Day

By Barb Armijo Perhaps the 3,000 passengers who ride the New Mexico Rail Runner Express daily do not know all the behind the scenes work it takes to get the New Mexico commuter train up and running each day, but plenty of the Rail Runner employees certainly get the picture.

“Truth be told, we’re pleased that our passengers see riding the train as a seamless process,” said Robert Gonzales, Assistant Transit Director (Rail) for the Rail Runner. “Riders should not notice how much work it takes. We just want to deliver them to their destinations on time, in comfort and safely.”

The train service has nine diesel-electric locomotives (MP36PH3C’s) built by Motive Power, 22 Coaches/Cabs cars which are bi-levels built by Bombardier. Trains run in push-pull configuration at speeds of up to 79 mph in rural areas and 35 mph in the cities and little villages. Each cab car seats 139 people, and each coach car has 149 seats, with standing room for an additional 60. The trains are elaborately painted with their namesake, the roadrunner, New Mexico’s state bird. Its signature door-closing tone is the wellknown cartoon sound “meep-meep.”

To get these cars going each day takes a team. This team is built by the Rio Metro Regional Transit District who oversees the contract operator, Herzog Transit Services Inc., which operates and maintains the trains.

Gonzales said hundreds of employees take on the jobs behind the scenes and on the trains. In 2016, the Rail Runner has over 150 employees. In addition to the conductors, ticket agents and engineers, there are inspectors, cleaning crews, and various crews such as dispatchers and safety.

ABOUT THE TRACKS

The trains run on the New Mexico Department of Transportation owned territory tracks parallel to I-25 from Bernalillo to La Bajada, where they tunnel under the road and emerge in the median of I-25. The trains go into another tunnel further north and then travel on the Santa Fe Southern Railroad line.

Crews wash and clean the train cars at the maintenance yard in downtown Albuquerque. Photo by Michael Jiron

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This is a 24 hours a day /7 days a week operation, and every eight hours three crews are on hand to take care of the details that make the train roll on cleanly, efficiently and safely.

For some of the jobs, even when the trains aren’t operating, they still are working.

Here’s what a typical day might look like, starting with zero-dark thirty until the last train pulls into the station.

• An hour before the first train departs at 4:32 a.m., coach cleaners have made sure the inside of the It takes a team of people to get the train is free from trash; seats and Rail Runner up and running each arm handles get a good wipe day. Photo by Michael Jiron down and the floors are swept and mopped.

• By this time the mechanical team is on the job maintaining and repairing equipment from the locomotive to the electrical parts and the door operations.

• Signal maintainers work 10 hours a day. They are responsible for the communications along the route,ensuring the signals and gates are working properly. They are always on hand in case of emergencies, communicating back to the train conductors and engineers.

• Off the train, the facility maintainers are a hard-working bunch of employees who keep the platforms and facilities at the various stops clean and safe.

• Dispatchers are on hand 24 hours a day because they not only handle the Rail Runner traffic on the tracks, but also AmTrak and BSFN. • Track maintainers are out and about all day long on the routes making sure there are no mechanical or environmental issues along the way.

• The last train pulls into the station at about 10:30 p.m. on weekdays, almost midnight on Saturdays and about 10 p.m. on Sundays. That’s when crews lock it down and get ready for the next day when the coach cleaners get the whole ball rolling once again.

Customer service is a Rail Runner priority. The customer service representatives are on hand to receive phone calls, handle customer concerns and generally make sure riders are happy.

Every employee is vital to the operations, said Gonzales. And they must be doing plenty right. The Rail Runner’s train service to date, has transported over 9.5 million passengers. Gonzales said he would like passengers aboard the Rail Runner to know that the staff takes its work very seriously from sun up to sun down.

“Our employees are diligent and dedicated; not many passengers will notice all the hard work,” Gonzales said. “The goals of the team, whether they are part of coach cleaning or track maintenance, are the same. We want happy train riders and we value every person who boards our coaches. We don’t take their happiness lightly.”

The customer satisfaction is thanks enough for Gonzales and his team – a well-oiled machine.

History is at the Heart of Raton’s Present and Future

By Barb Armijo The Santa Fe Trail by wagon train, was no easy passage in the early days, especially when crossing the Rocky Mountains through Raton Pass in northern New Mexico. When travelers heading south would finally get into a town, there was plenty of rest and relaxation to be had.

The pass is much easier now - paved roads and a highway certainly helped - but the hospitality in the town of Raton has not changed. Raton continues to be a great city to visit for beautiful scenery, cultural sites, a growing artist community and outdoor adventures.

Raton is undergoing a little uplift these days as the town has adopted a new overall vision for its downtown. The plan identifies an area of the downtown core to be designated as a Metropolitan Redevelopment Area (MRA), and lists priority projects to improve existing businesses and generate new ones.

As downtown Raton shapes up, visitors should also visit the surrounding areas. There is the scenic Capulin Volcano, Whittington Center’s outdoor recreation area in the foothills of the Sangre de Cristo Mountains, legendary Philmont Scout Ranch less than an hour from Raton and one of the nation’s best camping spot’s, Sugarite Canyon State Park.

“We like to think of Raton as being a well-rounded town with plenty of options for visitors,” said Vivienne Van Sweden of the Raton Chamber of Commerce. “We know many of our visitors are just passing through, but we offer places for them to stay, play and relax. Raton has not lost its charm for being a welcoming spot along the Santa Fe Trail.”

Here’s a little more on some of the Raton area destinations: Capulin Volcano Although long extinct, Capulin Volcano offers many excellent opportunities for observing and understanding volcanic formation and 10 million years of geologic history in northern New Mexico. The volcano is approximately 4 miles in circumference at the base with a crater diameter of 1,450 feet and an elevation of 8,182 feet at the highest point. It’s an excellent site for hiking.

The visitor center contains exhibits about geology, natural history and human history of Capulin Volcano. A 10-minute video shown in the visitor center auditorium details the story of Capulin’s eruption and the surrounding Raton-Clayton Volcanic Field. During the summer, ico exrangers offer short talks and answer questions about the trails.

Raton, New M Whittington Center Outdoor Recreation Destination www.ExploreRaton.com According to the Raton Chamber of Commerce web site, the Whittington Center was founded in 1973 and “is truly America’s one stop world class outdoor recreation destination.”

It is nestled in the foothills of the Sangre de Cristo Mountains and makes a diverse vacation spot. Easily accessible from I-25, the Whittington Center is located 10 miles south of Raton on Photo courtesy of the New Mexico Tourism Department.

Highway 64.

Capulin Volcano Whittington boasts a variety of shooting ranges, including ranges for smallbore rifle, high power rifle, black powder, trap, skeet, sporting clays, hunter sight-in, PPC, smallbore rifle silhouette, high power rifle silhouette, co silhouette, benchrest, and practical pistol. The ranges encompass more than 33,000 acres Mexipistol n, New hunter long range pistol silhouette, Rato and at between 6,300 and 8,100 feet in elevation, the center offers visitors breathtaking views, outstanding climate, hospitality and www.

ExploreRaton.com an array of family activities such as hiking, bird watching, wildlife viewing, and camping.

The housing and lodging possibilities cover everyone from individuals and couples to families and small or large groups. Lodging options include modern housing, rustic cabins, back country cabins, campgrounds with RV hookups and primitive camping.

Philmont Scout Ranch and Sugarite Canyon State Park The Philmont Scout Ranch, less than an hour from Raton, is a legend in Boy Scout camping. Backpacking treks, horseback cavalcades, and training and service programs offer young people many ways to experience this legendary country. But the Scouts like to share.

That’s good news for adults who visit Philmont. The Training Center offers courses and seminars covering all aspects of scouting, all amid Philmont’s dramatic scenery. o exic Sugarite Canyon State Park was listed as one of the top 10 camping destinations M w e ,N in the nation by Camping Life magazine. This historic park features historic coal ton a R camps, abundant butterflies, two scenic lakes, fishing, camp sites, and spectacular vistas.

In all, Raton’s history has definitely shaped its present, and will certainly add to www.ExploreRaton.com the charm of the town and surrounding areas moving forward.

“We’re very proud of what we have in Raton,” Van Sweden said. “Visitors here This advertisement was paid for by the will find something to do, will love what they see and we hope they make their stay Lodger’s Tax Advisory Board of the City of Raton with us a long and happy one.”

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CHAMA: New Mexico’s Mecca for Year-Round Fun

RAIL RUNNER EXPRESS

One of the best-kept secrets in New Mexico is the enchanting Village of Chama.

With an elevation of 7,860 feet, Chama is nestled high in the Southern Rockies, just 120 miles North of Santa Fe. The historic Cumbres & Toltec Scenic Railroad steam trains leave the Chama depot daily from Memorial Day weekend to mid-October.

Riding the railroad is a day trip of exhilarating mountain views and fall colors.

Fishing local trout streams and lakes is a leisurely pleasure and for a real experience try fly fishing the Rio Chama, which runs the east side of the Village. Hikers and mountain bikers find many trails including the Continental Divide Trail nearby. The Sargent’s Wildlife Area surrounds Chama with meadows and trails for hiking and horseback riding. Hunting adventures with reliable guides are close to town.

Chama has a lively Western-style business district with lodging, RV Parks and cozy dining establishments. Located at the junction of highway 17 and U.S. 84 (Take State Hwy 285 north from Santa Fe to Española then take the “Chama Highway” (84) north) the Village of Chama is the perfect destination for anyone seeking scenic outdoor recreation.

Crowds gather in Chama for the famous Fourth of July fireworks display. The Cumbres & Toltec Scenic Railroad offers a fireworks train in the evening. Chama Days, the second weekend of August, is always fun with a softball tournament, NMPRC Rodeo, dances and parade. Enjoy our Valley Studio Tour every Labor Day weekend and visit our local artists.

Cool times in cool pines are the epitome of summer fun in Chama’s cabins and vacation ranches.

Oh, yeah, and it’s an absolute mecca for winter sports, too!

For your safety and comfort bring a light jacket or sweater for those cool evening walks and check with the local ranger district before heading out to hike. Never travel alone and make sure you are adequately prepared. At these altitudes, the weather can sneak up on you.

info@portfoliollc.com 2500 Louisiana Blvd, Suite 508 Albuquerque, NM 87111 www.nmrailrunner.com | www.travelnewmex.com | SPRING 2016

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Route 66 Casino Hotel: Award-Winning Dining, Live Entertainment and Unlimited Fun

Route 66 Casino Hotel is your 24/7 oasis for a fun-filled day or spontaneous getaway. Feel the excitement build with over 1,700 slot machines and 20 action-packed table games waiting to welcome you into all the action. Join the party in our Irish-themed poker pub or play cosmic bingo in the 500-seat bingo hall. Play, eat, shop and do it again after a restful night’s stay in our classy, comfortable hotel.

Experience world-class quality, service and value at one of our award-wining restaurants and three lounges. Always voted best buffet in Albuquerque, Buffet 66 is a world of fresh choices all in one place. Feast your eyes on an array of international flavors spread across nine food and beverage stations with live-action cooking and more than 200 menu options from Mediterranean delights to Pacific Rim fresh bites.

Tempt your taste buds at Thunder Road Steakhouse and Cantina. Located in the heart of the casino, this multi-level restaurant serves up sizzling steaks, spicy tacos, and specialty drinks from the tequila bar. Great specials at even better prices are featured each month.

Take a walk on the rustic side with made-to-order tableside guacamole or kick-start your meal with freshly made tortillas and complementary salsa. Enjoy free entertainment by the best local bands every weekend on the bar-top stage.

When it comes to All-American comfort foods and cocktails, we’ve got it all! Flashback to the good ol’ days in the newly renovated Johnny Rockets restaurant. Swing by the 50s-inspired diner in for an All-American burger, onion rings and milkshake.

Catch the Johnny Rockets team is action as they sing and dance to classic oldies hits. Main Street Restaurant & Bar is the perfect place for breakfast or order a home-style special. Grab an indoor

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patio table and watch all of the casino excitement. If you’re looking to simply wet your whistle, swing by the 360 Lounge, Poker Pub, or Main Street Bar, and ask about the drink specials.

Let us entertain you. With 2,800 theater-style seats in Legends Theater every seat is a good seat. Experience performances from some of the best comedians, rock legends, country superstars and premier tribute bands in the business. Feel up-close and personal MMA action at one of our PPV events or live fights. Legends Theater features more than 25 headliner performances every year. The 2016 lineup includes multiplatinum American rock band 3 Doors Down, Grammy Award– winning comedy duo Cheech and Chong, and The Price Is Right Live stage show.

The fun doesn’t have to end when the sun goes down. Relax in one of the 154 newly renovated rooms at Route 66 Hotel. Refreshed from floor to ceiling, the $2 million remodel features an inviting ambiance of lively designs, modern furnishings, and many upgrades to make your stay comfortable. Reenergize with in-room amenities from top brands like Simmons Beautyrest®, Starbucks® and Bath & Body Works®. Plus, with on-site hourly childcare and a non-violent game arcade available at Kids Quest & Cyber Quest, the entire family can get their kicks at Route 66. Hotel reservations are available now.

For current rates, member discounts, and reservations please call 866-711-STAY (7829).

The best gaming, dining, and entertainment is just a hop, skip and short 15-minute drive west of Albuquerque exit 140 on Interstate 40.

Get all the latest Route 66 Casino Hotel news and announcements, visit us at www.rt66casino. com or follow us on Facebook and Twitter.

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