‘Band-aid’ put on money woes

By John Larson
mountainmailreporter@gmail.com

SOCORRO – The special legislative session ended Friday, Oct. 23, with several bills being passed in an attempt to find needed funds to help keep the state government running through the fiscal year, which ends June 30, 2010.
A total of nine bills were passed by both houses, including a budget bill which cuts more than $200 million in spending.
The budgetary shortfall this year is $650 million. Don Tripp, Socorro’s representative in the House, told the Mountain Mail “the best I can say is that we got through session.” “We put a band-aid on it to stop the hemorrhaging without hurting any agency or group,” Tripp said. “The impact is very minimal to any one group.”
One of the cuts was in education.
“The cuts in education was seven-tenths of one percent,” he said. “I think all school districts can move around in those parameters. We’ve given them leeway to use what they already have.”
Tripp said the largest concern was that cuts the legislature made were in non-recurring expenses, including current expenses, capital outlay, and “the rest in our savings accounts. Also we took next year’s capital that we anticipate getting in for next years budget.”
“This is all one-time money, which means we will be facing a 2010-2011 budget that is still out of balance in actual income versus expense,” he said. “We’ll be addressing all this more at length in January, and making more cuts in the governor’s unauthorized hires.”

‘Band-aid’ put on money woes

Girl, 9, begins recycling quest in La Joya

By John Severance
MountainMaileditor@yahoo.com

SOCORRO – Loretta Chavira is just nine years old but she stole the show at the Socorro County Commission meeting Tuesday at the County Annex Building.
Chavira wants to start a recycling program in the town of La Joya. First, she and her grandfather Marcel Abeyta addressed the La Joya association.
“They said it was a great idea,” Abeyta told the three commissioners in attendance – Rosie Tripp, Phillip Anaya and Dan Monette. “But they said they should go to the county to be heard.”
Loretta then addressed the commissioners, saying “I got the idea from watching television on the Disney Channel and I got interested in recycling.”
The commissioners were all ears but county manager Delilah Walsh said permit issues made it impossible for the county to set up a recycling program in the town.
But it wasn’t all bad news.
Walsh said the county can help by obtaining funds by applying for a Keep NewMexico Beautiful grant. And if the grant is awarded, the funds could be used to purchase recycling containers for the community.
Walsh directed Loretta to talk with Terry Tadano, the director of the Chamber of Commerce, and he had some ideas for how the recycling program could work.
When asked what he thought of Loretta’s presentation, Tadano said, “Excellent.
I have some ideas for her and I will be working with her. I just wish more young people would become involved in civic issues.”
Loretta, who was accompanied by her mother Mary, said she was happy with how the meeting went.
“I’ll do whatever it takes,” she said. “I will do whatever I need to do and if I can get it started, it will be really good. We’re just going to have to see what happens.”
Tripp was impressed.
“I am proud to see a child that young to show such initiative. I think she’s a future politician,” Tripp said.
In other business, the county:
Appointed Tommy Gonzales and Valentin Anaya as county representatives to the Mid-West NMCAP Grantee Board;
Approved agreement for County Road 91 Project and the construction will be done by La Calerita Contruction;
Approved MOU with City of Socorro: Veteran’s Park Project;
Approved Resolution 2009-72, which transferred ownership of the youth center to the city of Socorro;
Approved agreement for fixed assets system: RCI Approved Resolution 2009-70 which is the designation of precincts and polling places;
Approved an amendment to Detention Center SOP;
Approved a bid award for FY 2008-2009 Audit Services;
Approved its quarterly fiancé report, vendor checks and payroll payments.

Girl, 9, begins recycling quest in La Joya

Tri-county jail an alternative?

By John Larson
mountainmailreporter@gmail.com

MAGDALENA – Magdalena Municipal Judge Robert Serna wants Magdalena to have its own jail. Serna voiced his concerns to the Village Board at its meeting Monday night.
“I know it costs a lot of money, but we’re paying Socorro County $91 a day for our prisoners,” Serna said. “And it costs the village a lot in gas to drive them to Socorro.”
Trustee Jack Fairweather said he has reservations about any private business running such a jail.
“The private prison industry is a scam and I will never be in favor of bringing it in,” Fairweather said.
Mayor Jim Wolfe said building a jail for Magdalena would require federal or state grant money, and possibly capital outlay funding, which would not likely to happen soon in light if the state’s budgetary problems.
“But,” he said. “There may be an alternative coming up.”
He said he spoke with County Commissioner Rosie Tripp Saturday at the Village Hall open house ceremony.
“There is a possibility that the city of Socorro and the county will be talking of a new detention facility on the west side of Socorro,” Wolfe said.
Commissioner Tripp told the Mountain Mail Tuesday that a new detention center for the county is crucial, and that she plans on meeting with city and county officials to discuss its feasibility.
She said the idea is for a new tri-county detention center to house prisoners from Socorro, Catron, and Sierra counties.
“This is something we desperately need,” Tripp said. “I think that was thought about a number of years ago, but then it was to include Torrance County prisoners. It’s more realistic to combine the responsibilities with Sierra and Catron counties.”
She said the best location would be on city land near the National Guard Armory.
“I had a really good meeting with Mayor Bhasker about putting our resources together, Tripp said. “He said there is plenty of land out there.”
She said she would like the county to do some long range planning, “instead of going year-to-year-to-year trying to get things done.”
“I would be looking to the future for this project, doing it in a five to ten year plan,” Tripp said. “We could also consider, looking ahead, of putting the entire judicial complex out there, and possibly getting county administrative offices, such as the assessor, the county clerk, and county treasurer. All on one location.”

Tri-county jail an alternative?

Magdalena releases funds to replace vandalized street signs

By John Larson
mountainmailreporter@gmail.com

MAGDALENA – The Magdalena Village Board Monday night approved the expenditure of $1,500 to replace street signs that were vandalized.
“Vandals have gone around and torn down almost every new sign, even stop signs,” Mayor Jim Wolfe said. “These signs were required by the state’s E-911 program, and they need to be replaced.”
Marshal Larry Cearley said the signs were noticed missing two weeks ago. An investigation resulted the apprehension of three teenage girls.
“Two of the juvenile females have been charged with two felonies apiece in connection with the theft of 36 street signs, most of which were along First Street (Highway 60) in Magdalena,” Cearley said. “They have been turned over to the Juvenile Probation and Parole Office.”
He said it appeared that the vandalism was entirely an act of mischief.
The signs were discovered dumped on private property.
Clerk Rita Broaddus said the signs had been a welcome addition to Magdalena.
“Even many of the old timers here say they weren’t sure which was Spruce and which was Pine, and some said they used to get Oak and Elm mixed up,” she said. “Before the signs went up people would give directions by landmarks and ‘who used to live on whatever corner’.”
Joint Utilities Director Steve Bailey is now faced with the task of replacing the signs, which he and his crew originally installed in Oct. 2007.
“Of the 36 signs, some are a little bent but reusable, but most will have to be replaced due to the damage to them when they were removed,” Bailey said. “Most of the poles are still there. But there are a few stop signs that also need replacing – those which shared the same pole with street signs.”
The installation of the street signs was mandated by the state government and the E-911 program.
“The signs stolen were from First Street, and three streets in the Montoyaville area off Kelly Road,” Bailey said.
“The first step is to go back there and take a look at the signs, looking at which are good and which aren’t.” he said.
He said it may take up to six weeks to replace the signs, but that the $1,500 approved by the board may not be enough.
“It depends on how much the prices have gone up since 2007,” Bailey said.

Magdalena releases funds to replace vandalized street signs

Police Blotter

Information for the following items was provided by the Socorro Police Department office.

Sept. 19
A vehicle was pulled over at 1:57 a.m. for a traffic violation on California St. Signs of intoxication were noted on the driver, who failed field sobriety tests. He was advised of the New Mexico implied consent law, and booked and incarcerated. Intoxilyzer results showed a blood alcohol level of .09 and .08.
* A woman reported at 4 p.m. that when she was booked into jail she had $308.55, and when she was released she was given $208.55. She also said that someone had been using her bank card. Sheet copies were provided by her which stated she was booked with $308.55. She was advised to file a report with Albuquerque Police Department’s property sheet and booking.
* A complainant in the 900 block of California reported at 6:40 p.m. that he witnessed the suspect leave his store without paying for some candy bars. He detained the suspect, who admitted to the officer to shoplifting the candy bars, and then offered to pay for them. A citation was issued and the suspect was advised not to return to the store ever again.
* A person was picked up at 7 p.m. in the 700 block of California, highly intoxicated in full public view. He was placed under arrest for his safety and the safety of others.
* A woman in the 400 block of Bullock reported at 11:39 p.m. that someone had burglarized her residence and stole tools, assorted movies, a VCR/DVD player and prescription medication, all valued at about $500. There were no witnesses and no signs of a forced entry.
Sept. 20
A highly intoxicated man was found lying in the street at 2:25 a.m. in the Plaza area. An ambulance took him to Socorro General Hospital for medical clearance. After his release, he was arrested and booked. A small amount of marijuana was discovered in his possession during booking, and he was cited for that.
* A man in the 500 block of Park reported at 12:55 p.m. the rear tires on his vehicle had been slashed. He gave the name of a possible suspect, but requested nothing be done until he spoke with her. The two tires were valued at $80.
Sept. 21
A woman on Bullock reported at 3 p.m. that her vehicle was stolen at her residence. She signed a theft declaration for the car, valued at $15,450, and it was entered into NCIC. At 6:30 p.m. she called police back and said her car had been located in Corrales, and asked that it be removed from the NCIC.
* The manager of a trailer park reported at 10 p.m. that she had several complaints from neighbors about a loud party held at the suspect’s trailer, and that she had been threatened by the suspect herself. She stated she wanted the report filed and the incident documented.
Sept. 22
A woman in the 500 block of Manzanares reported at 11:20 a.m. that while she was out someone had kicked her front door open and removed a 42-inch flat screen TV, valued at $800, from her residence. No other items were missing.
* A San Antonio woman reported at 12:35 p.m. that her mother, who was under a court order not to make any contact with her, sent her a birthday card with money and a text message. She stated she was going to send the card and money back. The officer made contact with the mother and advised her to comply with the court order and not to send any letters or attempt to contact her.
* A man in the 900 block of Highway 85 reported at 5:30 p.m. that he witnessed a woman take food from his vehicle, and then leave in a four-door silver vehicle. He wrote down the license plate number and the officer ran a check on it. Information came back on the woman, who was not located at time of report.
* An officer was dispatched at 8:35 p.m. to the 500 block of Spring St. on the report of a possible drug overdose of prescription pills. Several items of drug paraphernalia and drug residue were found at the residence. The suspect was transported to Socorro General Hospital by ambulance.

Police Blotter

Obituary: Fidel Diaz

Fidel A. Diaz, 90, passed away Monday, October 26, 2009.
Fidel was born on March 15, 1919 in San Marcial, NM to Luis V. and Luz (Alderete) Diaz.
Fidel is survived by Daughter, Sylviana D'Ouville of Albuquerque, NM; Sisters, Amalia Chavez of Albuquerque, NM; Louisa Barreras and husband Benny of Socorro, NM; Marina Gallegos of Socorro, NM; Sally Fernandez of Socorro, NM; and Priscilla Torres and husband Max of Socorro, NM; Grandsons, Xavier D'Ouville; and Carols D'Ouville.
He is preceded in death by his Wife, Denise (Tolliver) Diaz ; Sister Rosela Diaz; and his Grandson, Ed D'Ouville; Brothers, Sam Diaz, and Joe L. Diaz; and Brother- In- Laws, Miguel Chavez; Tony Gallegos; and John Fernandez.
A Visitaton will be held at Steadman-Hall Funeral Home on Friday, October 30, from 9:00 AM - 5:00 PM. A Rosary will be recited on Friday, October 30, at 7:00 PM at San Miguel Catholic Church in Socorro, NM.
A Mass of Ressurection will be celebrated on Saturday, October 31, at 10:30 AM at San Miguel Catholic Church in Socorro, NM with Father Andy Pavlak as Celebrant. Burial will be held in the San Miguel Cemetery.
Pallbearers are Carlos D'Ouville, Sam Gallegos, Clarence Barreras, Alfredo Fernandez, David Torres, and Max Torres SR.
Honorary Pallbearers are Xavier D'Ouville and Felix Barreras. Arrangements are under the care of Steadman-Hall Funeral Home, 309 Garfield, Socorro, NM 87801. (575) 835-1530.

Obituary: Fidel Diaz

Ortiz garners state’s top honor

By Thom Guengerich
New Mexico Tech

Socorro’s Tony Ortiz was selected to receive one of the state’s most prestigious civil service awards – the 2009 Governor’s Distinguished Public Service Award.
Ortiz, a New Mexico Tech staff member, is being recognized for his efforts to expand and improve the state Science Fair and state Science Olympiad. Since taking over as state director of the program in 2002, Ortiz has significantly increased participation among high school students across the state.
“I was shocked and surprised to hear I had won,” Ortiz said. “I’m very appreciative for the recognition. This is huge. Now, I feel challenged to do even more so that I’m truly deserving.”
Tech president Dr. Daniel H. Lopez said Ortiz is an exemplary choice for the state’s highest civil service award.
“Tony Ortiz is a tireless champion of education in New Mexico,” Lopez said. “His office is directly responsible for opening the world of science, engineering and technology to thousands of youngsters in the state. At a time when the United States is lagging behind the rest of the world in these areas, it’s vital that we have leaders like Tony to serve as leaders and mentors.”
New Mexico Tech has played host to both the state Science Fair and state Science Olympiad events for many decades. By virtue of his tireless leadership, recruiting and promotional efforts, the two high school science programs have exploded in participation. Both programs offer more than $100,000 in scholarships to deserving high school students.
Ortiz was also instrumental in bringing the International Science and Engineering Fair to Albuquerque in 2007, an event that attracted more than 8,000 participants and visitors to New Mexico and gave the state unique visibility and recognition. Lopez said Ortiz volunteered to co-chair the committee that organized the International fair, helping to raise money and generate publicity for the event. Lopez said Ortiz’ efforts on the International Science and Engineering Fair certainly played a large factor in the award.

Ortiz garners state’s top honor

LETTER: Welcome back

To the editor:
What a treat to have the Mountain Mail back! I am happy to have it on sale again! When news hit that his intrepid small-town newspaper was ceasing publication, everyone I know of was in a little bit of luqubrious shock. Readers of the Mountain Mail should thank the Jaramillos and everyone else involved in saving this fine newspaper.
Welcome John Severance, the editor in chief! I know you will enjoy working for the Mountain Mail, as it is a highly spirited paper where we the citizens of Socorro (and surrounding areas) speak our minds frankly and often passionatly.
Cheers as well for Eddie Padilla for not only training young boxers, but also for being such a friendly gentleman whenever one enters Walmart. Some folks are as warm and bright as the morning sun, Mr. Padilla, is one of those kind of people.
My mom and Eddie are childhood friends. I am happy to know him too as Eddie is a classic car buff!
Car people rule!
Keep up the great work, Eddie! Many people love you. I urge all Mountain Mail readers to subscribe today!
Sincerely,
Vivian McAlexander
Socorro

LETTER: Welcome back

LETTER: Proud SEC Trustee

To the editor:
I want to begin this letter by thanking all the SEC members for electing me to represent them on the SEC Board of Trustees. I served on the Board over 25 years, because you elected me to the position.
I am proud of our accomplishments throughout the years that I served you. I gained valuable experience, I've met many people and have countless number of friends on the state, regional, and national level. I have many good memories and some sad memories but all in all, I am proud of what the SEC has become while I was on the Board.
Contrary to what Mr. Cole of the Albuquerque Journal stated in his recent article, I have congratulated all the newly elected trustees. He called the three of us that lost "disgrunted" trustees,
I wonder where he got that information. He never contacted me to ask me how I felt. If you want to talk about disgruntled, how about me pointing out both Charlene West and Richard Epstein ran for the Board and got soundly defeated by our President, Paul Bustamante.
Even Ms. Albrecht's husband "Bear" ran for the Board against Dave Wade. I would venture to bet that all three did not receive 50 votes altogether, yet all three have made their voices and opinions known by writing numerous letters and columns in both of the local newspapers, where they were always interviewed and quoted by the columnists.
How many times did these columnists contact the SEC Board members to ask them about our opinions? Was it because the newspapers didn't want to find out the facts so they could sell more newspapers by printing their biased news articles and opinions?
I want to wish the three new trustees all the luck and best wishes as they start their terms on the SEC Board. Believe me, they will need it. We have to endure over two years of hearing Charley Wagner shove the bylaws and Robert's Rules of Order down our throats. We have had to hear him insult us, we've had to listen to him throw tantrums.
We've had to remind him constantly that he voted on motions that he swore he voted against. He even wanted the Board to forgive his admitted oversight during the 2008 District V Meeting and allow the resolutions passed at that meeting to be introduced to the members at the 2009 Annual Meeting.
He admitted that the bylaws weren't followed at that meeting but later denied it. He wanted us to override the bylaws, which he had been telling us we never followed, and tried to intimidate us into forgiving his mistake. If he would have actually read the bylaws, he would have realized that he had made a BIG mistake.
He stole the Board's dignity, he killed our spirit and he destroyed the very principles the SEC and Co-ops around the nation abide by.
To you "followers" who didn't know where the Finley Gym was, I challenge you to find out the truth about Mr. Wagner's untruths and lack of real knowledge about our Co-op. I wonder if you can handle the truth. Beware of the wolf in sheep's clothing.
Proud SEC Trustee,
Juan Gonzales
Socorro

LETTER: Proud SEC Trustee

Magdalena Marshal's Blotter

Information for the following items was provided by the Magdalena Marshal’s office.

Oct. 10
An officer stopped a vehicle on school property at 11:30 a.m. A male passenger was charged with possession of narcotics with intent to sell. The under age female driver was also charged with the same crimes, and the report was turned over to Juvenile Probation and Parole.
* An officer was called at 2:06 p.m. to a residence at Fifth St. and Kelly Road on the report of battery on a household member. An information report was taken and turned over to the District Attorney’s office.
*A report was taken at 4:30 p.m. of possible child abuse on South Duggins. The case was turned over to CYFD.
Oct. 14
An officer spotted a woman at 5:31 p.m., he knew was wanted on an outstanding arrest warrant from Municipal Court, in a vehicle on First Street. She was arrested and immediately taken to court.
Oct. 15
An officer recovered 36 signs which had been stolen from Magdalena, the state highway department, and a private citizen. Three underage girls were taken into custody and turned over to Juvenile Probation and Parole, where they face felony theft charges and tampering with evidence.
Oct. 16
An officer responded at 4:20 p.m. to the bridge on Highway 169 where a man and woman were found highly intoxicated. Both were taken to the Socorro County Detention Center and charged with public nuisance.
* An officer pulled or a vehicle that almost hit him on Highway 60 at 11:20 p.m. The driver was arrested for DWI and blew a .14 blood alcohol content level. The driver was also charged for not driving within the roadway lane.
Oct. 17
An intoxicated subject was stopped at mile marker 112 on Highway 60 at 11:45 p.m. and was arrested on an outstanding warrant from Socorro Magistrate Court.
Oct. 18
An officer was called at 4 p.m. to pick up an intoxicated male on First Street. He was arrested and charged with public nuisance.
Oct. 21
A woman reported at 5 p.m. that she was being stalked and harassed. The male in question was charged with stalking, harassment, and violation of a domestic order.
Oct. 22
An officer answered a call at 2:30 a.m. from the 100 block of First Street on a report of domestic violence where a woman had been beaten, and the windows of her car broken out. The male suspect left the scene and an arrest warrant on him for two felonies was issued.
* An officer was dispatched at 9 a.m. to Magdalena Schools where four boys were questioned on possession of marijuana, possession of tobacco, and having a knife at school. Three of the four were turned over to Juvenile Probation and Parole for prosecution.
Oct. 23
A woman reported at 10 a.m. that she had her license plate stolen from her utility trailer.

Oct. 24
An intoxicated male subject was picked up at 4 p.m. on Highway 60 and arrested on an outstanding bench warrant from Socorro Magistrate Court.
* An officer picked up a man and woman in front of a business on First Street at 7 p.m. on warrants. She had three outstanding warrants, and he had one outstanding warrant from Socorro Magistrate Court. Both were taken to the Socorro County Detention Center.
Oct. 25
A highly intoxicated man was found at 4:30 p.m. on Highway 169 at the bridge. He was wanted on an outstanding warrant from Socorro Magistrate Court. He was transported to the detention center.
* At a driver’s license checkpoint a man was stopped at 4:34 p.m. and arrested for DWI. The subject blew a .21 BAC.

Magdalena Marshal's Blotter

OPINION: Incrementalism has failed against the enemies of the people

The Pencil Warrior
by Dave Wheelock

The last opinion piece I wrote for this publication, on September 9, was titled “We’ll miss you, Mountain Mail.” Obviously rumors about the death of the little newspaper that could - and apparently still can - were exaggerated. In my farewell piece I noted that “Over the course of five years and over 100 Pencil Warrior columns, the Mountain Mail’s editors never attempted to influence my written opinions.” (Even when I estimated the size of the fish I caught in rare columns involving that happy pursuit.) Having received the same pledge from the Mail’s new publishers, this return debut seems as good a time as any to test the premise.
We are in trouble. By “we” I mean not only the sick, poverty-battered, or otherwise underprivileged citizens of a state that perennially ranks near the top in those categories in which we’d rather rank near the bottom, but humankind in general. I purposefully include those folks with more toys than they know what to do with, since most of them are apparently every bit as oblivious to their plight as the average Joe or Joanna. And I’ll certainly throw in the tea baggers, those of the fantasy-based community who for all their intellectual shortcomings are at least admirable for their anger. And if you believe in justice for the innocent, you’ve gotta have a sad feeling in your heart for all the other species with whom we share this planet.
The trouble seems to be closing in from every side. Social and domestic violence on a scale that increasingly rivals that of a war zone. Corruption to make a thinking American pause before condemning that in any third world country. A citizenry that must be communicated with at a level previously reserved for sixth-graders. A gluttonous behemoth one Republican president referred to as the “military-industrial complex.” Climate change that will likely soon transform much of the earth (especially the American southwest) into a parched, unlivable moonscape. The breakdown from over-exploitation and manmade toxins of every life-sustaining ecological system on the planet. The rising threat of wars stemming from over-population, resource depletion, and religious arrogance. And increasingly, an expanding gap between capitalist profit seekers and the great mass of producers that risks open rebellion.
Confronting any one of these threats, of course, involves countless variables and challenges. As a bleeding heart liberal, I receive many more pleas online and through the mail than I can possibly answer, let alone contribute resources toward. I know I am not alone. By concentrating our efforts on details rather than making the radical changes that alone can save civilization and the earth (not to mention capitalism), we have divided and are conquering ourselves.
For inspiration, consider this past weekend’s “Showdown in Chicago,” wherein reality-based American citizens actually hit the streets in outrage. The occasion was the American Bankers’ Association annual conference at the Sheraton Hotel and Towers. Among others, the Service Employees International Union was there, joining other citizens in carrying signs that read “Hold the banks accountable,” “Reclaim America,” and “Jail ‘em and don’t bail ‘em.” If you watch videos of the event on the internet, you’ll hear among the people’s foremost demands, “bust up big banks.”
If these demands sound extreme, it is because virtually our entire culture – our workplaces, schools and universities, the media, formerly public places - has been morphed into a protection and enhancement scheme for the interests of a tiny minority. Instead of wielding laws already on the books to abolish huge financial monopolies totally devoid of any national allegiance or social commitment, we talk of establishing a new regulatory body for them to infiltrate and capture. Wouldn’t hard jail time and “three strikes and you’re out” sentencing laws be a lot more effective than even the heftiest fines in stopping corporate bottom dwellers from wrecking neighborhoods, polluting the soil and waters, and bribing public officials?
When someone who hasn’t read The Pencil Warrior asks me what I write about, I struggle for the short answer most people seem to only have the time for. Usually I end up blurting out a word rarely heard in casual conversation: “democracy.” I can tell you that answer is usually more likely to draw a blank - sometimes even pitying - look than it is to spark a conversation. But I usually can’t tell whether this is because the questioner already assumes we live in a democracy, doesn’t fully understand the concept, or has simply given up on the possibility, much as millions of Americans have given up trying to find a job.
It’s quite shocking for an American born in the 1950s but sometimes I wonder if I am pursuing a goal that’s no longer possible in this country. Should I instead focus on simple justice? Do the two necessarily go hand in hand? Or should I just tell another fishing story?
Dave Wheelock, a member of the Oneida Nation, is a collegiate sports administrator and rugby coach. Reach him at davewheelock@yahoo.com. Mr. Wheelock's views do not necessarily represent those of the Mountain Mail.

OPINION: Incrementalism has failed against the enemies of the people

Socorro High tops Hot Springs

By John Severance
MountainMaileditor@yahoo.com

The Socorro football team passed its first district test Oct. 23 when it won at Hot Springs 26-14.
But it does not get any easier.
The Warriors travel to Hatch Valley Friday and end the regular season at home the following week against Cobre,
“They probably are two of the best teams we play,’’ said Socorro coach Damian Ocampo, whose Warriors improved to 5-3 overall and 1-0 in district play. “We have to play well to have a chance. I have confidence in the kids and I think we can do it.”
Ocampo announced this week that quarterback senior Ryan Romero no longer will play football.
Romero sustained a shoulder injury similar to the one suffered by Oklahoma quarterback Sam Bradford.
“We made the decision that it is in his best interest not to play football anymore this year,” Ocampo said. “It’s rough. But he is a really good golfer and he wants the opportunity to play golf in college.”
That leaves Zach Esquivel as the starter and Ray Vaiza will be the backup.
“We are very blessed to have two capable quarterbacks,” Ocampo said.
Ocampo said his Warriors still have been decimated by injuries but they are doing the best they can.
“We have taken a big hit with fundamentals and conditioning,” Ocampo said. “In the last couple of games, we have not done a good job tackling and dropped a lot of balls and these are the kids that have missed practice because of injuries.
“When you have seven guys out with injuries, you can only do so much. We also have lost kids in practice and we have had to scale back on contact and we are doing other things that will give us the opportunity to be healthy.”

Socorro High tops Hot Springs

Animas squeaks past Reserve by 2

by John Severance

RESERVE – The town and school were ready to celebrate a district championships.
Windows in town were painted “Beat the Panthers,” and “Go Mountaineers.”
It also was senior day as Reserve honored its senior football players and cheerleaders along with their parents.
And on the very first play from scrimmage, quarterback Nolen Snyder found his twin brother Allyn Snyder for a 68-yard touchdown pass. The fans in the stands were pumped and so were the Mountaineers. Animas, though, had other ideas.
The Panthers kept the ball on the ground, keep the football away from the explosive Mountaineers, who suffered a heartbreaking 26-24 defeat Friday, severely damaging their district title hopes.
Animas will travel to Magdalena, which lost to Reserve 52-6 Oct. 16, Friday in its quest to clinch the title. All, however, is not lost for Reserve, which still is hoping for a state tournament berth.
If Animas beats Magdalena, the Panthers are district champions and the Mountainners will be runners-up.
If Magdalena wins, there will be a three-way tie. “If that happens, there is a good chance it will be us in the playoffs,” Cole said.
It only got worse for Reserve.
In the third quarter, Allyn Snyder hurt his knee after an Animas defender grabbed his facemask while tackling him.
Snyder stayed on the ground for close to 20 minutes while being tended to by coaches and then medical personnel. He was carted off the field by an ambulance.
Animas led 26-18 after an 8-yard run by Tyler Downs with 7:28 left. It didn’t take long for Reserve to score as it took all of 27 seconds. The two-point conversion, though, fell incomplete.
“We could not stop them and they could not stop us,” Cole said.
Reserve’s defense, though, came up with a stop and took over at its own 13.
Trevor Kaber broke loose on a 67-yard pass play from Nolen Snyder to the Animas 21. But on the very next play, Fisher fumbled at the Animas 13 with 4:04 left.
Animas ran out the clock even converting a fourth down and eight with 1:20 left on a fake punt.
“The kids called that one. They knew they had the upper hand,” Animas coach Louie Loburin said.
Cole said he was not surprised Animas went for it.
“I would have done the same thing,” Cole said.
Despite the loss, Cole said he had never been prouder of his team. “It was one of the best games I have seen in 15 years,” he said. “After Allyn got hurt, they rallied and they didn’t give up.”

Animas squeaks past Reserve by 2

Mag to host districts

by John Severance

It was not the way Magdalena volleyball coach Liz Olney wanted to enter the district tournament after the Lady Steers fell to Gallup Catholic 3-1 last week.
Despite the loss, though, Magdalena was seeded first in the district tournament and will host Temple Baptist at 10 a.m. Saturday. Temple Baptist advanced in the district tournament by winning at To’Hajiilee 3-2 Wednesday night. In the other matchup, Menaul will face Gallup Catholic at Magdalena at noon Saturday.
The loss to Gallup Catholic ended a six-game win streak for Magdalena. “We didn’t play well at all,” Olney said. “Regardless of the outcome, I knew we were going to be in first place but I didn’t want to let the girls know that. But it seemed like they already knew that.”
The top two finishers in the district tournament advance to the state tournament, which begins the following weekend. The district champ will host Quemado and the runnerup will travel to Animas.

Mag to host districts

Warriors to hit road

by John Severance

After the Warriors struggled to a 7-11 record and a 2-2 district mark, they have a chance to make amends.
Socorro received a 10th seed for the state tournament and it will travel to Santa Fe Prep at 4 p.m. Friday. If Socorro wins, it will face the Bosque School at Rio Rancho High School next week.
“We have played a very tough schedule,” Socorro High assistant coach Kenny Gonzales said.
In fact, the biggest highlight of the season for the Warriors actually was a loss. They took the second-ranked Bosque School to double overtime before falling 1-0 Oct. 1.
In the game before the Bosque loss, the Warriors traveled to Santa Fe and lost to Prep 3-1.
“Two of the goals we gave up were on penalty kicks and (Head coach) Chuck (Ngo) and I thought they were questionable calls,” Gonzales said. “The referee could not tell us who made the foul.”
The Warriors, who ended the regular season with a 6-3 district loss at Ruidoso, are hopeful for better results in Santa Fe Friday.
“Playing there gave us an idea of what they have,” said District 3 player of the year Avery Ngo said. “We had two mistakes in the box and that hurt us. We just have it take it one game at a time and see what happens.”
Earning all-district honors were Ngo, Justus Jaramillo, Kevin Urban, Erik Garcia, Kenneth DeCosta, Moazz Soliman and Eddie Soto.

Warriors to hit road

Socorro girls win 8th straight title

Eight certainly is not enough for the Socorro girls soccer team.
The Lady Warriors won their eighth straight district title in style Friday with a resounding 9-0 win against Ruidoso on senior day.
Six of the eight seniors were on the score sheet, but freshman Dezare Armijo led the offense with three goals. Seniors who were honored before the game included Victoria Lopez, Zakilah Dennis, Jennell Higgs, Katherine Welch, Mariah Deters, Janell Lopez, Madeline Wolberg and Nicole Engler, who also was named district player of the year.
The Lady Warriors finished the regular season with a 16-3 record and a perfect 4-0 district mark. Socorro was rewarded with a fifth seed for the upcoming state tournament and it will host Santa Fe Prep at 4 p.m. Friday. If the Warriors win, they will face fourth seed Hope Christian on Nov. 5 in Albuquerque in the state quarterfinals.
“I was expecting a four),” Socorro coach Mitch Carrejo said. “It does give us another game though. Otherwise, we would have a two-week layoff.”
Earning all-district honors were Armijo, Victoria Lopez, Janell Lopez, DamiAna Contreras, JenAna Lopez, Engler, Amanda Saenz, Wolberg, Mileva Gacanich, Angelina Stanzione, and Welch.

Socorro girls win 8th straight title

Pygmies defeat alumni

By Dave Wheelock
New Mexico Tech Rugby Coach

The New Mexico Tech’s student team won a battle of contrasting rugby styles in Friday’s 49ers homecoming match to score a 55-32 victory over Tech’s alumni.
The Pygmies will attempt to conclude their fall season Saturday as they take on the New Mexico State University Chiles in Las Cruces . Kickoff is scheduled for 1 p.m. After four minutes of play, the students took advantage of a turnover by their elders to ship the ball to veteran fullback flier Isaiah Sanchez, who crossed the line for the game’s first try. Jay Herrera booted the conversion and the Pygmies took a 7-0 lead.
A physically imposing set of Ancestor forwards featuring former Pygmy greats Denny Newell, James Napier, Habib Guerrero, Brendan La Count, Matt Majors, Tory Tadano, and Dylan Merrigan drove the Pygmies backward in the opening scrums, forcing student scrumhalf Herrera to scramble with his passes to the backline. But the Pygmies thrived on what ball possession they could get from Ancestor kicks or lineouts thrown to Matt Kretz and Graham Payne, always striving to lateral the ball wide for their speedsters to advance. After ten minutes flyhalf Royce Beaudry took the last pass to score after a lightning attack by his mates covered the entire length of the field.
Ancestor scrumhalf Seth Daly got the veterans on the scoreboard at 12-3 after 20 minutes with a long penalty kick, but minutes later, the Pygmies went up 19-3 when big inside center Nick Aldape spotted a gap and cruised a full 50 meters to score. Dylan Merrigan, a current graduate student player at Colorado School of Mines, smashed his way to a short range try soon after to pare the students’ lead to 19-8. But then Beaudry and Sanchez each added tries in the waning minutes before halftime to up the lead to 31-8.
The Ancestors dominated ball possession and registered two tries early in the second 40-minute period. With the Ancestors trailing 31-20 with a half hour remaining, the Pygmies responded, first by working the ball to wing Mason Timm, who scored. Outside center Dustin Webb kicked the conversion and less then two minutes later, Beaudry sped 50 meters out
The Ancestors answered with a try from Mike Anguti (converted by Daly) to make it 41-27 before the Pygmies’ man of the match Jay Herrera stepped in front of an Ancestor pass and motored 80 meters to claim an intercept try converted by Webb. Minutes later, Beaudry added his fourth try of the day when he followed up abreakaway by Herrera. Webb was good with the conversion kick for a 55-27 student lead, but the Ancestors had the last word when outside center Pat Simons, scored from 30 meters out.

Pygmies defeat alumni

OPINION: Ghouls, goblins and halloween fun

Magdalena Potluck
by Margaret Wiltshire

Saturday night is when we set our clocks back an hour. Seems like a silly thing to me, but I no longer have children getting up early to wait for the school bus. This clock setting system does give us our long summer evenings so no real complaint.
Before we accept the rigors and darker hours of winter, we have a festival of play, Halloween. For a growing number of people Day of the Dead is celebrated. In the Day of the Dead celebration, our departed family and friends also are included in celebration.
It is a time of family fun, togetherness. This carving of pumpkins, Trick or Treat adventures, sharing and storing of goodie bags is wonderful family bonding time. These home, community and school parties are wonderful events.
Children of all ages have this weekend to be as lovely, heroic or fierce as they can imagine themselves to be.
Still I wonder why so many children want to be Darth Vader, and not just on Halloween. Are they imagining the appeal of the “Dark Side”? Are they THAT disappointed with what is supposed to be “The Force of Good?”. Has that “Force” been so dishonest that it repels the clear eyes of youth? Or is that how they see themselves?
Hopefully, they just want to be Darth Vader for one night, the Darkness that in reality, they are not.
Whatever it is, I am waiting for the night Luke Skywalker says “Trick or Treat”.
In the end, Darth Vader comes back into the light, back to the force of goodness. In the meantime, I’ll let every Darth Vader I meet, that I see the Skywalker in him or her.
Any child playing this theme knows the difference between real “Goodness” and real “Evil”. May that force stay with them always. May that force stay with us all.
Halloween is the night we play with our social values. We can be as strong, beautiful, magical or silly as any society could ask for. With family and community love behind them, children always benefit from Halloween.
Candy. I have noticed kids going around with smaller bags for smaller hauls. Also good, many parents are watching and spreading out the consumption of candy collected over time.
Activity is the body’s way of using, dealing with high blood sugar. It is a good idea to allow active time for those who have consumed a lot of sugar. It’s a natural way to adjust blood sugar levels.
Halloween is all about dealing with fears and realities. In some places in the southwest, we have “monster” spiders, tarantulas. What is the reality of these giant night creepy crawlers?
Wild female tarantulas can live 30 years and have a leg span of ten inches, dinner plate size. Smaller males are the ones we see usually because they will travel during summer daylight, the mating season.
Tarantulas feed at night on critters smaller than they are. With retractable claws, like cats, they can climb but prefer not to risk a fall. Their exoskeleton can easily rupture so these shy critters try not to fall and do try to avoid larger animals, including us.
A tarantula does not want to bite you. Its poison is like a bee sting. However, tarantulas have barbs they can “throw” at anything that scares them. They scare easily. These barbs can cause a nasty rash and allergic reaction.
Good idea, let wild things be wild.
Hoping you all have a wild, safe, and loving Halloween!

OPINION: Ghouls, goblins and halloween fun

Don’t forget to turn your clocks back early Sunday

Luna News
by Kaye Mindar

Benjamin Franklin was the first to suggested Daylight Saving Time in 1784, but it was not until World War I, in 1916, when it was adopted by several counties in Europe that initially rejected the idea.
Daylight Saving Time is a way of getting more light out of the day by advancing clocks by one hour during the summer.
During Daylight Saving Time, the sun appears to rise one hour later in the morning, when people are usually asleep anyway, and sets one hour later in the evening, seeming to stretch the day longer.
We are told that the reason DST works is because its saves energy due to less artificial light needed during the evening hours. It is difficult to predict what will happen with Daylight Saving Time in the future as countries change the rules and dates for special occasions and conditions. For now remember to set your clocks back 1 hour on Sunday at 2 am.
Get Well Wishes
Ann Snyder recently fell and sustained a hairline fracture near her hip. She is still under a doctor’s care and will be spending the extra time she needs to heal at a rehabilitation center in Springerville. We wish her a speedy and strong recovery.
Condolences
Funeral services for Owren Combee Damron were held at 10 a.m. on Thursday at the Luna L.D.S. Chapel. Owren passed away last Thursday afternoon just one week shy of her 97th birthday at the family home in the loving and selfless care of her daughter Cheryl Green and her extended family.
Owren was a delightful woman to get to know. The Sam Combee family settled in the Luna valley in 1917. They lived in a three-room house while Sam built a log home for Ben Rogers at the Craighead place. Owren and her sister Vida attended the little Los Lentos School as children.
During the infamous snows of 1918, it was difficult to find anything amusing about that terrible winter, but with a smile Owren remembered her granddad James Bruce shoveling a path out to the corral and then carrying her grandmother Josephine “piggyback” style so that she could milk the cows.
She will be missed and we send love and good wishes to her family at this time of loss. She was preceded in death by her husband Ralph in October 2005. Internment was at the Luna Cemetery.
Halloween Activities
At 6 p.m. Friday, the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints Luna Ward will host an old fashioned Halloween party with finger foods, pop corn balls and a host of goodies.
Activities will include musical tombstones and other old time games. Face painting, pumpkin decorating contests and costume judging. Everyone is welcomed and invited to attend. Please contact Idonna Bradford for more information.
For those still wanting more celebration; the Catron County Health Council and SACAT (substance abuse community action team) invite all to attend the 5th annual Halloween Street Fair from 5 to 7 pm on Reserve Main Street on Saturday evening. There will be prizes, games, tricks and treats. Bobby and Cindy Howell from Luna volunteer their time with the Health Council and we appreciate their personal time and efforts to help make this event an ongoing success. At 7:30 p.m., there will also be a dance in the CCHC building next to Henry’s Corner.
Special Training
The Luna Volunteer Fire Department has been training this past week with Reserve’s fire department at the county’s fire training trailer parked at the Reserve Fair Grounds. We appreciate their time and sacrifices to sharpen their skills when faced with emergency situations.
Quote of the Week
“I don't mind going back to daylight saving time. With inflation, the hour will be the only thing I've saved all year.”
~Victor Borge

Don’t forget to turn your clocks back early Sunday

Van rides available for Reserve Senior Health Fair

By Debbie Leschner
and Richard Torres
For the Mountain Mail

The Quemado Senior Center has postponed its trip to Gallup to Nov. 11 instead of Nov. 4. Bingo and quilting will take place on Thursday. A van will be taking Datil seniors to the Reserve Senior Center Health Fair on Thursday, Nov 5, leaving Datil at 9 a.m. The Quemado seniors will have a van going to the Fair on Friday, Nov 6. It will leave the center around 9 a.m.. Please call the center to let Diana know if you will be riding the van to the Fair. The center phone number is 773-4820.
Fundraiser at Thrift Store
Martha’s and Mary’s Thrift Store will have a special fundraising event on Saturday, Nov. 7 to “Support our Troops”. In addition to the many items for sale in the store, there also will be a bake sale. All proceeds will go to provide Christmas boxes for the troops of the 515th Air National Guard of Socorro who are serving overseas. The store is located off Hwy 12 next to the CACA Fire Station in Apache Creek and hours are from 10 a.m.-2 p.m.. Donations of items and baked goods will be accepted that morning. If you are not able to attend but would like to make a donation, you can mail it to: Martha’s and Mary’s, PO Box 366, Reserve, NM 87830.
Commission highlights
The Catron County Commission met for its monthly meeting on Oct. 21 Among the highlights:
* Request to rename the Reserve Community Center to the Ray Estrada Community Center. Motion passed after community members praised the dedication and efforts exemplified by Ray.
* A presentation from the Datil Area Community Advisory Board (DACAB). They are seeking acquisition of land in Datil area and apply for funding to build a multipurpose facility. This facility will be used for health care services, community meetings, and law enforcement meetings.
* Pie Town representatives Ken Bostick and Sue Bolander reported on this past Pie Town Festival. “We had approximately 1,500 fairgoers and served over 2,540 slices of pie,” said Ken. He shared with the Commission the need for improving and repairing the Pie Town Park and community center. The commissioners will look into assisting Pie Town with these needs.
* Cybersquatting, also known as Domain Squatting, was a topic discussed. As this may involve the county as well as various businesses in the county, a more detailed information packet will be presented to the commissioners at a later date.
Quiet at Quemado
It was a quiet week for the Quemado Schools. Welcome back to the students who attended the FFA National Convention. The first round of the Girls State Volleyball Tournament will be Nov 6 and 7. Look for more information on the Veterans Day Celebration held in the gym at 6 p.m. Monday, Nov 9.  
Noteworthy
* Men’s Fellowship Breakfast will be Saturday, Nov 14 at 8 a.m. in the Cowboy Church located off Hwy 32 near Quemado.
* Ag County Propane has not disappeared from Quemado. Jimbo Williams and staff have moved to their yard just 1 mile east of town on Hwy 60. Jimbo said he “would like to invite everyone to come out and see the new location at 3553 Hwy 60.” Their phone number is 773-4111.
* Vicki Shriver, Reserve Emergency Medical Technician (EMT), will be conducting an EMT Basic course for all interested residents. The class will take place on Nov. 6, in the Reserve Ambulance building. “The need for qualified EMT’s in the county is tremendous,” said Vicki. Those interested will be trained in respiration, splints, treatment of shock, responding to medical emergencies, and many other critical care treatments. Scholarships may be available. For further information, call Vicki at 575-533-6455.

Van rides available for Reserve Senior Health Fair

OPINION: Sylvia quick to solve health insurance crisis

By Anne Sullivan

“I don’t know what to do,” said Sylvia, her head drooping closer and closer to the floor.
“About what?” I asked absently as I handed her a mouse-occupied sticky trap. “Put this in the garbage can, please.”
Sylvia continued the conversation when she returned from the errand. “Gordo wants to know where his bonus is.”
“What bonus?” I asked, laying a fresh sticky trap under my bed.
“That’s just it. What bonus?”
“Did you promise him a bonus?”
“We-l-l-l, not exactly in so many words.”
I cut to the quick. “How much does he want?”
“Five thousand dollars.”
“Five thousand dollars!” I echoed.
“Yeah, and RingWorm wants compensation for counseling Gordo.
She says his Post Traumatic Stress Syndrome is not covered by his health insurance. The insurance company claims it’s a pre-existing condition and they’re planning to drop him.”
“I didn’t know he had health insurance.”
“Gordo says he got it through his previous employer.”
“He couldn’t have had a previous employer,” I said. “He was just a kitten when he arrived; unexpectedly, I might add.”
Sylvia put a paw on my knee. ”Didn’t he tell you? Gordo got the health insurance from the modeling agency he worked for. Evidently they took and sold a lot of pictures of our pretty boy.”
“Well, knock me over with a mouse trap. Will wonders never cease,” I said as I finished laying my DeCon barrier along the walls of my beleaguered bedroom.
“But if that insurance company drops him, he’ll be no better off than the rest of us.”
Sylvia paused for a long time to think before she came out with, “I thought those folks in Washington are fixing health insurance so that everybody can get everything they want.”
“Everybody except the insurance companies.”
“Oh, are they unhappy?”
“You said it.”
“It seems to me everyone is unhappy about health insurance,” Sylvia said, visibly pondering the situation.
“I think they’re looking at it the wrong way.”
“Really? What’s your idea?”
“Simple. If nobody gets sick or injured, we don’t need doctors or medicines or hospitals or sick days off from work and then we don’t need medical insurance.”
“That’s true but the adjustment is easier said than done.”
“I know how to do it,” said Sylvia. “We have to reward the people who don’t get sick.”
“They’re already rewarded by being healthy.”
“No, the reward has to be more immediate and more concrete, something like tickets to ball games and free meals at restaurants and healthy candy for children and days off from work and lottery tickets for a college education.”
“Wouldn’t that be very expensive?” I asked.
“Yes, it would but it would be a lot cheaper than paying for insurance. This way we could dispense with insurance companies and hospitals and we wouldn’t need so many doctors. It’s very simple. We could call it Public Option Times Three.”
“Perhaps you should go to Washington and explain this to the powers-that-be,” I suggested.
At this point Sylvia hopped on her imaginary soapbox and saluted.
“You know how I hate to travel,” she declaimed.
“However, if Washington is willing to listen I’m willing to go and serve my country and humanity in general by solving the health care crisis.”

OPINION: Sylvia quick to solve health insurance crisis

Catron County Health Fair scheduled for next week

By Debbie Leschner and Richard Torres
For the Mountain Mail

The Catron County Senior Health Fair will take place on Thursday Nov. 5 and Friday Nov. 6 from 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. at the Reserve Senior Center on Ester Street.
The health fair is offered annually to all seniors, 60 years and older, and their spouses who live in Catron County. Dr. Edwin Nebblett from the Reserve Clinic will be on hand to take 15 minute appointments and flu shots will be provided by the Public Health Dept on both days.
When was the last time you had your blood pressure taken ? This can be done during the fair. Please call the center to see if any other blood work may be available at the fair. Remember to fast after midnight for those who will have blood drawn. Various information booths will be set up and haircuts will be given. In need of a walker or other health product that can make your life a little easier, learn how to get one “on loan” at no cost to you. All services are free.
The center kitchen will be providing home cooked breakfast and lunches. After you have your blood work done come and have some breakfast. The lunch menu for Thursday is turkey, gravy and dressing, seasoned green beans, cranberry salad and pumpkin pie with topping. For Friday, BBQ on a bun, beans, buttered corn, creamy coleslaw and apple crisp. Meals are a donation of $2 and no reservations will be needed during the fair. Afternoon snacks will be available.
“We encourage all seniors to take advantage of this opportunity,” said Nan Skelton. As the Director, she has seen this Fair grow in size and participation throughout the years. “Last year we had a tremendous response, and fully expect the same this year,” she said.
“Tests and screenings will be offered both days, so it is ok to come back multiple times. Everyone has a good time visiting and rekindling friendships. Over 1,000 seniors in the county are eligible for these free services,” stated Nan.
A van from the Glenwood senior center and the Quemado senior center will be driven over on both days. Check with your local center for the transportation times. For more information on the Health Fair and activities, you can call the Reserve senior center at 575-533-6676.

Catron County Health Fair scheduled for next week

OPINION: Reserve trip well worth it

By John Severance
mountainMaileditor@yahoo.com

Some random thoughts after a week or so on the job …
I made a trip out to Reserve for the Mountaineers’ football clash with Animas.
Although Reserve lost, I was struck by the passion of the town in how it backed its Mountaineers, who gave their all on the field and were absolutely exhausted after the game.
On a side note, I met the Catron County Sheriff who seemed like a cool guy.
There might not be a large population out there but there sure is a lot of land to cover. I don’t envy him.
The Reserve volleyball team and athletic department were doing its part for Dig Pink and breast cancer awareness as it raised $850. They had a table set up, selling baked goods at the football game.
Getting political
I finally delved into the Socorro political scene Tuesday. I had a cordial 45-minute off-the record conversation with Mayor Ravi Bhasker. And on Tuesday night, I covered the Socorro County Commission. That was not off the record and you can read my account on the front page of the Mountain Mail.
But you have to hand it to the commissioners and county manager Delilah Walsh. They set a world record for speed as the meeting lasted an hour. I also enjoyed going to the commission meeting for another reason. I am into full disclosure here. The county attorney is Adren Nance, who is the older brother of John Nance, who is married to my girlfriend Jill’s daughter Megan. You got that? There will be a quiz next week.
Anyway since this is my column, I get to make the rules.
So on that note, I would like to send out a hello to the Nances and to baby Keira at the Field Ranch and I hope you have not canceled your subscription yet.
Kudos, meanwhile, have to go out to Loretta Chavira and her family in their quest for a recycling program in their community of La Joya. I know a lot of people probably get intimidated when they have to address a panel of politicians. I know I do.
But the nine-year-old showed a lot of poise and confidence and it would not surprise me in the least if she succeeded.
Correcting the editor
I had a bit of a rough first week on the job and it just proves that every editor needs an editor. We had a reference to a flu shoot as opposed to a flu shot. In the Magdalena volleyball story, we called Gallup Catholic, Gallup Central. New Mexico Tech certainly is called the Miners but the rugby club is the Pygmies so that was a nice 48-point mistake. And last but certainly not least, there was a bad quote in the Socorro girls soccer story. Coach Mitch Carrejo should have been quoted: “Like the rest of the girls, she (Dezare Armijo) does not miss any practice.”
The Mountain Mail is striving to get the facts right and I need all the help I can get. Email (MountainMaileditor@yahoo.com) or call me (505 838-5555) with any corrections or clarifications.

OPINION: Reserve trip well worth it

Here Comes Dracula

In case you can never have enough Halloween, New Mexico Tech’s Performing Arts Series brings you “Dracula: The Musical?” a comic spoof produced by ABQStages. The fun happens at Macey Center at 7:30 p.m. on Friday, Nov. 6.
Albuquerque Stages takes the classic horror tale of the vampire Dracula, adds some of Albuquerque’s most talented performers, over-the-top humor, singing, dancing and audience participation and you’ve got a recipe for fun. Costumes and audience participation are encouraged. Last year’s production in Albuquerque was a huge success with sold out performances, and this year’s show is sure to be a crowd-pleaser.
Under the direction of J.B. Tuttle, returning cast members Jeremy Gwin, Erin Warden, Reni Roberson, Scott Fitzgibbon and Bryan Gilliland will be joined by fresh blood including Leah Tuttle, Paul Barlow, Zane Barker and Erin Moody.
Before the show, people 21 and over are invited to join Tech Club – Club Macey for a Dracula-themed social from 5 to 7 p.m. in Macey Center. There will be a costume contest with prizes for “Most Creative”; “Scariest”; and “People’s Choice.” Snacks for the evening will be Blood of Vampire Soup (roasted beet soup with garlic); beef carpaccio; and Death by Chocolate. There is a $5 cover charge if you are not a member of TCCM.
ABQStages is a new non-profit theatre company providing creative and educational opportunities for a diverse community by producing accessible quality theatre on local stages.
Tickets for the performance are $16 for adults, $14 for senior citizens, and $12 for youths 17 and under. Tickets are available at the door or in advance at Brownbilt Western Wear, Sofia’s Kitchen, Video Shack, and the Tech Cashier’s Office on the second floor of Fidel Center.
Admission is free to full-time New Mexico Tech students – those taking at least six hours and showing a valid student ID. Students should pick up their tickets in advance at the Tech Bookstore.
The performance is supported in part by New Mexico Arts, and the National Endowment for the Arts. Local sponsors include Associated Universities/ NRAO and the New Mexico Tech Student Association and Graduate Student Association.

Here Comes Dracula