One of the duck ponds near the New Mexico Tech golf course on Wednesday afternoon.
Thursday, June 10, 2010
Socorro Woman Murdered
UPDATE
John J. Hayden made his first appearance in Socorro's Magistrate Court, Thursday, June 10, where Judge Jim Naranjo set bond at $750,000, cash only. Hayden asked for a public defender. His plea of not guilty was not accepted. Hayden is currently being held at the Socorro County Detention Center. The date for his arraignment has not yet been scheduled.
By John Larson
SOCORRO – A local woman has been found deceased in the trunk of a car parked under a bridge off Chaparral Road early Wednesday, June 8.
According to the Department of Safety’s Director of Communications Peter Olson, the victim was identified as Theresa Saiz-Chavez, of Socorro. It is being investigated as a homicide.
Late Wednesday night, John J. Hayden, 56, was arrested and charged with an open count of murder, kidnapping, and battery on a household member. He is being held with no bond.
Late Tuesday evening State Police, Socorro County Sheriff’s Office and Socorro Police Department were dispatched to a “shots fired” call, Olson said.
“While law enforcement personnel were searching for the suspect’s vehicle, a different vehicle was located parked under a flood control bridge off Chaparral,” Olson said. “The victim’s body was discovered in the trunk of the car.”He said the body in the trunk showed signs of heat exposure.
State Police believe the death of Saiz-Chavez was not related to the shots fired call.
State Police Investigations Bureau with the assistance of the Socorro Police Department processed the crime scene.
As of press time, the cause of death had not been released.
Pictures: (top) Theresa Saiz-Chavez. Courtesy KRQE.
(bottom) The bridge off Chaparral Rd where the car was discovered. Mountain Mail photo.
Lemitar Cockfighting Event Interrupted
By John Larson
SOCORRO – Seven years after the last legally recognized cockfighting arena in Socorro County was destroyed by fire, a County Sheriff’s deputy, with assistance from a State Police officer, stopped a clandestine cockfighting event in Lemitar Sunday, May 30.
“I saw people running out of the building in all directions. Flying out like a bunch of birds,” Deputy Joseph Tafoya said.
Tafoya and State Police Officer Greg Valentino were the only law enforcement officers available at the time to answer the call shortly after noon from a woman who reported that she witnessed dead roosters in the front yard of a residence on Elder Lane in Lemitar.
“It was an anonymous call into dispatch,” Tafoya said. “She said there were several vehicles, maybe 12 to 15, at the residence, and that there appeared to be a cockfight in progress. You can’t miss it.”
Tafoya said the first offense for cockfighting is a petty misdemeanor, which carries a fine of between $25 and $100. Unlike dog fighting, spectators are not charged.
“Officer Valentino and I arrived at the property - which included a trailer, a work shed, a bigger house and a large garage - and we split up, he went one way and I went around the other way,” he said. “I heard Greg saying ‘don’t move, stay right there,’ and came around the corner. That’s when the people came running out in all directions, out toward the ditch banks. Four people stayed put; three spectators and the property owner.”
He said he said he noticed in the backyard one rooster dead, two others injured and other roosters running around loose on the property.
“Both the injured birds had the metal spurs attached, along with the boot,” Tafoya said.
The property owner told Tafoya that he had just arrived prior to the officers’ arrival, and said “he was called by another friend who said friends of his were in town and looking for a place to fight the roosters.
“The owner said he didn’t want that to happen on his property, but it had already started. That’s when we showed up,” Tafoya said. “The three spectators said they didn’t know who the people were, other than [the other people] were the owners of the roosters and were from Belen.”
Tafoya said no one was charged at the May 30 incident in Lemitar, but the surviving roosters have been taken in by a woman in Polvadera.
“The roosters have been classified as abandoned property,” he said. “The county may have to advertise them as such, and we’ll see if the rightful owners of the roosters come to claim their property.”
Which is doubtful.
Since March, 2007, cockfighting has been banned in New Mexico, although it is not a crime to own, breed and sell fighting roosters.
When Gov. Bill Richardson signed the law outlawing cockfighting, it had been a thriving business in Luis Lopez.
At least up until May, 2003, when the Gentlemen’s Arena Game Club, operated by Louisa Lopez and Richard Lopez Sr. on Farm-Market road was burned to the ground by an arsonist. The perpetrator was never discovered.
That same year the New Mexico legislature was to decide on a bill banning cockfighting and imposing an 18 month prison sentence on those poultry fanciers convicted of the crime and sentiments on both sides of the issue ran high.
After the fire the Lopezes constructed a new building on the site, and opened it as a dance hall.
In earlier times legal cockfighting arenas could be found in Magdalena, San Antonio, and Lemitar, as well as Luis Lopez.
A major cockfighting operation in Chaparral was broken up in 2009, resulting the recovery of about 1,000 fighting roosters.
Pictures: (top) The evidence picked up by the authorities in Lemitar. (bottom) In May of 2003, the Gentlemen’s Arena Game Club, operated by Louisa and Richard Lopez Sr., was destroyed by fire and the arsonist was never caught. Mountain Mail file photo
Local Man To Be Tried After Supreme Court Overturns Ruling
By John Larson
SOCORRO –A years-old felony case will be back on the District Court docket, thanks to a recent ruling by the New Mexico Supreme Court. The ruling concerned a question with a change in the statute of limitations for violent crimes.
In June, 2005, Nicholas Morales, now 68, was arrested on five counts of sexual molestation of a young girl which occurred between 1978 and 1985, beginning when the victim was about four years old.
According to the 2005 arrest warrant, Morales “admitted to having sexual penetration with the victim on five occasions when she was between the ages of four to seven years old.”
Before going to trial, the case was thrown out by the New Mexico Court of Appeals, which ruled that the crime had fallen outside of the statute of limitations – 15 years for class I felonies.
But last Friday, June 4, the state’s Supreme Court overturned the Court of Appeals ruling. The high court ruled that when the legislature removed the statute of limitations for violent crimes in 1997, the alleged incidences involving Morales still lay within the 15 year statute.
The victim, Tanya – the Mountain Mail will only print her first name – reported in May, 2005, that she was the victim of periodic rape by a relative over a seven year period, when she was aged 3 ½ to 10.
In a KRQE News 13 television interview in February, Tanya said, "I will not own the shame of what he did to me. He robbed me of my childhood. He silenced me at a very young age. He was put in a position to protect and he violated that."
District Attorney Clint Wellborn told the Mountain Mail he was gratified to learn of the Supreme Court’s decision.
“It was the right decision, and one we always had planned on. There were people concerned that it would not be pursued, but it was a long process and we were appealing the Court of Appeals ruling all along,” Wellborn said. “We knew we had a legitimate argument which was worth pursuing up to the Supreme Court.”
Socorro Police Sgt. Richard Lopez said the department has been safe-keeping all physical evidence in the case.
“We’ve been waiting for the Supreme Court’s decision on this, so all we have to do now is bring it out from where it’s been kept,” Lopez said.
This includes all documents and videos of interviews. Also all witnesses will be contacted, including former Chief of Police Lawrence Romero, who was a detective at the time and the investigating officer.
Wellborn said the original prosecutor, Stacey Ward, no longer works in the D.A.’s office, and has assigned Assistant District Attorney Regina Ryanczak to be prosecutor.
Be On the Lookout For Bears, Cougars In Mountains
By John Larson
SOCORRO - Two reports from Santa Fe this week have to do with cougars and bears in rural and mountainous areas.
Governor Richardson signed a proclamation declaring June 12 “Cougar Smart New Mexico Day,” alerting hikers, bikers and other outdoor recreationists that New Mexico is cougar country, and encouraging them to stay aware of their surroundings.
“New Mexico is cougar country,” the governor said in a press release. “As people get outdoors and enjoy the state’s wildlife and wildlands heritage, they need to stay alert to the possibility that cougars and bears share those lands. While cougar attacks are extremely rare, following a few simple steps can help people cut their risk.”
“Cougar attacks are extremely rare,” said Tod Stevenson, director of the Department of Game and Fish. “Recreationists should know that it’s a remote possibility, but it can happen and the results can be terrible”
Game and Fish is also warning hikers and campers that hotter than normal temperatures bring the possibility of encountering bears in campgrounds, picnic areas and communities near mountains.
According to a separate press release from Game and Fish, bear sightings have risen in the East Mountains near Albuquerque.
“Tuesday, May 8, Conservation Officer Mike Ahlm responded to his eleventh bear call in two days in that area,” the press release said. “He had just finished collecting a road-killed bear on Interstate 40. A week earlier, he had to kill an aggressive bear that was terrorizing a picnic area.”
"There were indications that that bear was being fed by people, and that's usually a death sentence for bears," Ahlm said. "If I find out you've been feeding bears, I will prosecute you." The fine for anyone who intentionally or unintentionally feeds a bear that becomes a nuisance is $500.
Magdalena Marshal Larry Cearley said although visitations by bears are not frequent, a occasional bear sighting in the village is not unusual.
“Bears come down, mostly looking for water. Residents must be cautious and make sure their garbage is secured in their trash bins,” Cearley said. “They’re also attracted by dog food or anything else that’s been left outside. If you see one, call us immediately.”
In 2007, a 150 pound black bear was killed when it climbed a utility pole near the Spears Well, causing a partial blackout in the village and Hop Canyon.
In 2006, the area around Quemado Lake, including all campgrounds, was closed by Gila National Forest because of an increase in bear activity.
Fish and Game offers advice on encountering a bear or cougar:
• Stop, and back away slowly while facing the bear, but avoid direct eye contact, as that may be considered a threat.
• If the bear has not seen you, stay calm and slowly move away, making noise so the bear knows you are there.
• Do not run. Make yourself appear large by holding out your jacket. If you have small children, pick them up so they don't run.
• Give the bear plenty of room to escape, so it doesn't feel threatened or trapped. If you are on a trail, step off on the downhill side and slowly move away.
• Carry a walking stick and use it to fight back in the rare event that an encounter with a cougar becomes an attack.
• If a black bear attacks you, fight back using anything at your disposal, such as rocks, sticks, binoculars or even your bare hands. Aim for the bear's nose and eyes.
OBITUARY: Perfilia Padilla
Perfilia PadillaApril 30, 1922-June 3, 2010
Perfilia Padilla, age 88, beloved mother, grandmother, and great grandmother, passed away peacefully on Thursday, June 3, 2010, while surrounded by her loving family.
Perfilia was a long time resident of Socorro, but for the last year had been living in Albuquerque with her daughter due to failing health. Perfilia was born in Quemado on April 30, 1922. At the age of six she lost her father and an aunt in a boating accident in a small lake near Quemado. She was raised by her mother and her grandmother.
She attended Mt. Carmel School in Socorro and St. Vincent Academy in Albuquerque. She also attended a Catholic University in Ohio.
After WWII she married Seles Padilla Sr. They began their careers teaching at a small school in San Mateo. After two years they moved to Polvadera, where they raised their family. Perfilia never lost her love for teaching and at the age of 53 received her degree in elementary education from NMIMT. She then began teaching again at Torres Elementary until her retirement.
Perfilia is survived by her children, Seles Padilla Jr. and wife Margaret from Socorro; Mary Ellen Chavez and husband, Stanley from Albuquerque; and Larry Padilla and wife, Jun Fang from Los Lunas, NM. In addition, she is survived by 10 grandchildren, 21 great grandchildren, 3 great great grandchildren, and many niece, nephews, and cousins. She is also survived by a sister, Alice Martinez and husband, Robert from Socorro, and sisters-in-law, Lillie Apodaca from Polvadera,NM; and Susie Padilla from Socorro. She is preceded in death by her husband, Seles Padilla Sr., and sister Lupe Vallejos.
Funeral services will be on Monday, June 7, 2010, at San Miguel Catholic Church in Socorro with a rosary recited at 8:30 a.m. and a Mass immediately following. Interment will be at San Lorenzo Cemetery in Polvadera. Those who wish to send condolences may do so at www.danielsfuneral.com. Services have been entrusted to: Daniels Family Funeral Services, 309 Garfield, Socorro, NM 87801 (575) 835-1530
OBITUARY: Florence Chrisco Kottlowski
Florence Chrisco Kottlowski
July 12,1924-May 30, 2010
July 12,1924-May 30, 2010
Florence Chrisco Kottlowski joined her late husband, Frank, on Sunday, May 30, 2010. She had been under hospice care. Her family wishes to thank all care givers for their wonderful care of her during these past few months.
She was born on July 12, 1924, in Walla Walla, Washington. She met her husband Frank during WWII and they married in 1945. They were married for 55 years. Socorro was her home for most of her life. Her cremains will be intered with Frank at the National Cemetery in Santa Fe.
She is survived by her sister, Dorothy Ewbank, and sister-in-law, Cissie Chrisco. She leaves behind her three daughters, Karen Harvey, Jan Wallace, and Dianna Shoderbek.
She was especially fond of her sons-in-law, Albert Harvey; and David Schoderbek; but reserved a special place for her grandchildren, Adam Harvey (Angie); Benjamin Harvey (Stacy); Zachariah Wallace (Tanya); Donald Schoderbek (fiancé, Maddie); and Florence Schoderbek; as well as her great grandchildren, Rick; Kate; Frank; and Olivia.
She was a lifelong volunteer in the public schools and she helped start a local thrift store in the 1970’s. She spent many happy Tuesdays working there. It is thriving today. She also loved to plant things and her yard is filled with several different kinds of fruit trees, flowers, vegetables, and herbs. She was a kind, gentle, generous soul and will be missed, especially her quiet sense of humor and her lively political debates.
Those who wish to send condolences may do so at www.danielsfuneral.com. Services have been entrusted to: Daniels Family Funeral Services, 309 Garfield, Socorro, NM , 87801, (575) 835-1530
OBITUARY: Alan K. Bowlby
Alan K. Bowlby
Jan. 6, 1931-May 31, 2010
Jan. 6, 1931-May 31, 2010
Alan K. Bowlby, 79, died Monday, May 31, 2010, in Mesa, Ariz. He was born January 6, 1931 in Washington, New Jersey to Herbert Bowlby and Gladys Rush Bowlby.
Alan served in the United States Navy, National Guard and United States Air Force. and worked in the auto parts industry. He enjoyed hunting, fishing, traveling and being with his family.
Alan is survived by his wife Earlene Bowlby, Quemado; son Alan Bowlby, Jr., Phoenix; daughters Jennifer Dickman, Yuma; Susan McGovern, Phoenix; sister Alice Ceddia, Hackettstown, New Jersey; 16 grandchildren and 5 great grandchildren.
He was preceded in death by a daughter, Gerri Lynn Bowlby.
A Funeral Service will be held Saturday, June 12, 2010 at 10 a.m. at First Baptist Church of Quemado. Interment will follow the Services at the Quemado Cemetery.
To leave an online condolence, please visit www.burnhammortuary.com
Burnham Mortuary, Eagar, handled arrangements.
OBITUARY: Linda Marie Platt
Linda Marie PlattApril 17, 1947-June 4, 2010
Linda Marie Platt (nee Roath) completed her earthly journey on Friday, June 4, 2010, after a brief illness.
She was born to Archie J. and Jean F. Roath on April 17, 1947 in Buffalo, Wyo. She is survived by her husband of 36 years, Thomas Gregory (Greg) Platt of Socorro; sons David Goeffrey Platt of Chicago, Ill.; and Thomas Glenford Platt and wife Stephanie of Annapolis, Maryland; and daughter Ella Jean Musser and husband Fritz of Edgewater Maryland; brother Jack L. Roath of Canon City, Colo..; sister Gwendolyn M. Roath of Socorro; six grandchildren, extended family and friends. She was preceded in death by her parents and a grandson, David Tyler.
Linda graduated from Lovington high school in 1965 and attended the University of New Mexico. Wherever Linda lived – New Mexico, Greencastle, Ind., Puerto Rico; Plano, Tex.; Anapolis, Md., and Socorro – she made friends with her big smile, easy laugh and her caring and compassionate ways.
She was an active member of the Baha’i Faith and was a trained teacher for children and adults in Baha’i education. A highlight for her was a pilgrimage in the late 1980s to the Baha’i World Center in Haifa, Israel.
She worked closely with her husband in his computer business in Texas and later worked as phlebotomist and office manager for doctors in Maryland. After moving to Socorro in 2000 to be closer to her family, Linda worked first at the Bhasker Clinic and then the Socorro PMS Community Clinic.
Linda opened her heart and home to numerous people over the years including troubled teens seeking a stable environment, which led to those teens and her own to dub their home “The Refugee Center”.
“She was always encouraging other people and giving them solace,” said her husband, noting her loving ways and quiet certitude.
She maintained a life-long association with members of her high school Girl Scout troop; and friendships formed in her early college years.
She loved reading, studying history and was an avid amateur photographer. She was also a member of the Fiber Arts Guild and the Friends of the Bosque del Apache NWR.
A memorial celebration of her life was held on Wednesday, June 9, 2010,at the Casa Blanca Bed and Breakfast, San Antonio. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to HHC/Hospice, P.O. Box 1009, Socorro, NM 87801 or the American Cancer Society.
Look For Comet McNaught In The June Skies
June Skies
By Jon Spargo
Tech Astronomy Club
By Jon Spargo
Tech Astronomy Club
June will be a busy month for sky watchers. A couple of events will require binoculars or a small telescope but will be worth the effort. The first is the appearance of Comet McNaught. This object became visible during the early morning hours beginning around June 1 as it makes its way through the constellations of Andromeda, Perseus and Auriga.
The best viewing will be mid month as it passes through Perseus.
If it follows predicted magnitudes it should begin the month at magnitude 8 and brighten one or two magnitudes by the middle of the month. Its path will begin low in the east and move toward the northeast. A detailed finder chart can be found in the June issue of Sky & Telescope Magazine. An on-line search might also lead you to a finder chart.
Venus will continue to dazzle us in the early evening hours. On the evening of June 11 about an hour after sunset, Venus and the bright stars Pollux and Castor, in Gemini, will form a virtual straight line. Another great sight, for those who have binoculars, will be on the evenings of June 19-20. At that time Venus will be less than one degree from M44, the famous Beehive star cluster.
Mars will spend most of the month hanging out in Leo, “The Lion.” On June 5- 6 Mars was found less than one degree from the bright star Regulus which is the last star or at the base of the handle of the “Sickle of Leo.” Some folks refer to this grouping as looking like a backwards question mark.
Saturn appears slightly dimmer this month as the Earth is steadily pulling away from the ringed planet. As the month progresses the rings will begin to open up a bit which is another artifact of the Earth’s changing position with relation to Saturn. During May the rings closed to 1.7 degrees and appeared nearly edge on. We won’t see the rings this thin again until 2024.
Jupiter will be an early morning target for planet watchers. A bonus this month is a conjunction with the planet Uranus. Through June 16 the two planets will be within one degree of each other.
The Moon will be new on June 12, 1st quarter on June 19, and full on June 26.
On June 14, looking west-northwest about an hour after sunset, the crescent Moon will be just below and to the left of Venus.
There will also be a partial eclipse of the Moon in the early morning hours of the night of June 25-26. Unfortunately, this eclipse will only be partially visible to folks in the western half of the U.S. Those in Hawaii should have a grand view of the entire event. The partial eclipse will begin at 4:17 a.m. MDT and 3:17 PDT.
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