WORLD`S LARGEST HUMMINGBIRD fEEDER THE HUMAN
Transcription
WORLD`S LARGEST HUMMINGBIRD fEEDER THE HUMAN
WWW.MOUNTAINTIMES.NET Mountain Times MAY 2009 WORLD’S LARGEST HUMMINGBIRD FEEDER the human hummingbird feeder " Abigail Alfano is hand feeding her hummingbirds." Picture was taken by her husband, Sam Alfano. (Photo reprinted with permission) Abigail Alfano of Pine, Lousiana is the human hummingbird feeder. (See story and close-up picture on page 14) Counterfeit Money in Otero county Reports done by DPS have shown counterfeit in the area. According to the reports, two involve fifty dollar bills and the other a one hundred dollar bill. It appears suspect/s bleach out a real five dollar bill and then reprint the image of a fifty or a hundred over the bleached bill which is still on real currency paper. If an inattentive clerk who's looking for just the presence of a magnetic strip, and or a correct mark from their counterfeit pen will not know it is counterfeit. The clerks/tellers or any other businesses need to pay close attention to what is written on the magnetic strip which also could be done by magnifying glass and to examine the bill closely to see if any other images come through with light IE. watermark image of Lincoln from a bleached five dollar bill in the background with the copied reprint of Grant from a fifty dollar bill or Franklin from a one hundred dollar bill. On the counterfeit bills we have seized, the magnetic strips read five dollars which did not match the reprinted image of a fifty dollar or hundred dollar bill. We also noticed that on one of the seized bills there appears to be two magnetic strips. One of the strips is from the bleached five dollar bill the other is a photocopy from the sample bill used during the copying process. Israel R. Trujillo, Detective Sergeant Alamogordo Department of Public Safety (575)439-4300 ext. 128 or (575)439-4325 ext. 128 PRESORT STANDARD US POSTAGE PAID WEED, N.M. PERMIT NO. 1 Get a subscription to this newspaper 575-987-2523 today! The world’s largest hummingbird feeder is located on 305 Panther Ave in Cloudcroft, NM. The feeder was designed by Steven Adams and his eleven year old daughter, Abby. Tim Trembly was the artist that actually built it. According to Steven, “It is a real working feeder with an internal bladder, feeder tubes, and flower petals.” Completely empty the hummingbird feeder weighs 17,000 pounds and can hold up to 6,000 pounds of sugar water. The feeder technically cannot be filled to capacity because it is suspended from a large cable connecting two trees (See inset on page 14) and probably would collapse, bringing the feeder to the ground. The feeder is approximately 23 feet in height and 5 ft in width. Just recently the Adams’ submitted their invention to the Guinness Book of World Records (GWR) for consideration and ratification. At this time, “The World’s Largest Hummingbird Feeder” is not recognized, therefore after submission for request, the GWR will evaluate any proposals and decide whether it is acceptable as a new record. Steven is very proud of his daughters creativity and says, “This shows what a young girl can do if she has a great idea and puts her mind to it. Abby is destined to accomplish many great things in her life!” Broad-tailed Hummingbirds Read more about the broad-tailed hummingbirds on page 14 as they make their way back into the Mountains. CONTEST Enter to Win a $25.00 Gift Certificate to Spring Mountain Restaurant. Details inside! Don’t Tell Anybody, but....by Don Vanlandingham Winter is slowly but surely going away. She's leaving in a huff as she always does...like an obnoxious relative that has overstayed their welcome and finally got the message. Lot's of wind as usual. Winter promises for Cloudcroft went unkempt again this past winter. No chance for the snow play areas to put together any kind of a winter business. Sadly that happens more winters than not around here. I, for one, think Cloudcroft village movers and shakers should re-think their approach to winter tourism. Maybe they should organize more indoor activities that would attract tourists. Here's an idea. Laugh if you want to. Villages and cities all across the fruited plain use the "festival" moniker to draw visitors. I have done a cursory search of the internet and there seems to be a huge interest in jigsaw puzzles. Of course in Cloudcroft jigsaw puzzles rate right up there with Rummicube and Scrabble as indoor activities when the weather outside is frightful. It seems to me we could turn this popular winter indoor pastime into a village-wide jigsaw festival with related activities such as art exhibits, specials at retail shops and restaurants, etc. Cloudcroft doesn't need a lot of reasons for people to visit. After all it is the most beautiful spot in North America. All Cloudcroft needs is an excuse for people to come. Snow play is nice but it's not often available. An indoor-oriented festival (whether it be a jigsaw tournament or something else) is not weather sensitive. If the snow comes, so much the better. Just an idea. Don Vanlandingham writes a weekly newsletter about life in the Sacramento Mountains. Contact him at [email protected] Letters to the Editor Dear Editor, My name is Peyton Schultheis. I go to Evansville Day School in Evansville Indiana. I am 10 years old and in fourth grade I am doing a report on New Mexico, and I need you and your readers help. I would be so happy if you could publish my letter. I would like it if your readers could send me information like postcards, brochures, etc. about New Mexico. Thanks so much, Peyton Scultheis They can send information to: Evansville Day School 3400 N. Green River Rd. Evansville, IN 47715 C/O Peyton Sculties CLOC Calendar 2009 May 22-24 Memorial Day Melodrama (Mayfair weekend) June 5-6 Melodrama June 19-20 Melodrama (High Rolls Cherry Festival June 20-21) To The Editor: Administration’s Shotgun Approach To Economy Part 1 of 3—The Stimulus The recently enacted $787 billion economic stimulus plan designed to create jobs includes about $300 billion in tax cuts for individuals and businesses, which will not create jobs because companies are not hiring and consumers are saving their money, not making purchases they can postpone. The Commerce Department recently reported a U.S. savings rate of 5%, which is the highest since 1995. A significant portion of the remaining $487 billion goes to social programs, which will help the needy in some instances, but will not create jobs in the private sector where they are needed. Examples are $50 million to the National Endowment for the Arts; $380 million for Women, Infants & Children’s welfare; $2.4 billion for neighborhood stabilization; $160 million for “paid volunteers” (???) for Community Service; $20 billion for food stamps; $150 million for the Smithsonian; and $55 million for the Historic Preservation Funds. The Administration’s projection of creating 3.5 million jobs by the end of 2010 is optimistically off target because it is based on an average unemployment rate of 8.1% for 2009, which was hit in February, and it is rising. It now appears the economic stimulus plan will create about 2.5 million jobs, which doesn’t come close to replacing the 4.4 million jobs lost in this recession, plus the 500,000 to 600,000 more jobs lost each passing month. For 2009 the Obama Administration predicts a 1.2% decline in Gross Domestic Product (GDP), but a majority of economists predict a 2.0% decrease in GDP; and in 2010 it’s a 3.2% projected increase by the Administration, but a 2.0% increase predicted by the economists. For the 4th quarter of 2008 the Bush Administration projected a 3.8% decrease in GDP, but the actual decrease was 6.2%. Essentially, the Administrations are generating economic policies based on optimistic projections of our GDP, but prudence might dictate more conservative projections. Maybe the President should end his ongoing campaign mode of governing, curtail his continuous campaign and media appearances, start operating as the chief executive of this country, and concentrate on creating good paying American jobs as his primary objective. Donald A. Moskowitz Londonderry, NH (575) 987-2233 PAGE 2 MOUNTAIN TIMES - MAY 2009 ISSUE 1-575-987-2523 Views From the Pioneer Village By Dr. Bill Boverie The Switchback Perhaps the best-known feature of the Alamogordo and Sacramento Mountain Railroad was the switchback. The railroad reached mile 19.3 in Toboggan Canyon in November 1898, where it ran into an escarpment below Cloudcroft too steep to climb. The escarpment is not a shear cliff, but is a jumble of hills with intervening valleys. Somehow the train had to climb the sides of those hills and cross the intervening valleys on tall trestles. The problem was that the slope would be entirely too steep. It is estimated that a slope of over eight percent would have been required. Construction halted for almost a year - until October 1899 - while they tried to find a solution. Meanwhile construction shifted to the main line. Apparently the construction engineer (Sumner) was completely stumped, even though he had built the Denver and Rio Grande narrow gauge railroad in Colorado. It is said that he had a nervous breakdown over it. The story also says that the idea of using a switchback to reduce the slope was suggested by his son, although different accounts have the son being anywhere from a young child to being a college student. The switchback was a long zigzag in the shape of a highly elongated “Z.“ A train drove to a dead end, then by switching track behind it, backed across the connecting branch to another dead end, and then by switching the track ahead of it, pulled forward. (This was not the first use of a switchback. Switchbacks in the form of zigzags with sharp curves, but without the dead ends, were used as early as 1827 on a gravity railroad in Pennsylvania called the Mauch Chunk and Summit Hill Railway, but better known today as the Switchback Railroad. It brought coal from Mount Hood to Philadelphia. It did not use locomotives, and the empty cars were returned by using an inclined ramp and a steam-powered winch to pull them up the mountain. Closer to home, the Santa Fe had a switchback in Raton pass in 1878, which was replaced by a tunnel in 1879. And the Great Northern Railway had used eight dead-end switchbacks on Stephens Pass in Washington State. These switchbacks were constructed in 1892, but were replaced by a 2.6 mile tunnel in 1900 because of the time delays caused by the switchbacks. Finally the Cass Railroad in West Virginia, founded in 1901, had two dead-end switchbacks. Thus by 1901 switchbacks were in use across the country.) But there was one more problem - there was not enough room on any hill in the escarpment for a switchback long enough to sufficiently reduce the slope. This was solved by putting the switchback on the steep side of the canyon, just before reaching the escarpment. The train thus climbed up the canyon wall as it went through the switchback. It then went onto the first hill in the escarpment via a major trestle spanning Bailey Canyon. Then the train climbed a succession of hillsides with trestles over intervening valleys to Cloudcroft. The connecting branch of the switchback was 0.6 miles long, and the dead end segments were long enough to accommodate 22 cars and a locomotive. Longer trains had an engine in the middle so that it could be segmented for going through the switchback. Putting the second engine in the middle also spread them out so that only one engine would be on even the longest trestle at a time. In theory, a switchback allows the grade to be reduced by a factor of three, although it probably was no more than a factor of two in this case. Even then, there was an adjacent half-mile section with a 6.4 percent maximum grade. The line had been kept to about a five percent grade up to this point. Although the line from Toboggan to Cloudcroft was only 5.2 miles long, it took 40 minutes because of the switchback and the curves. (The time from Alamogordo to the Cloudcroft depot was 2 hours and 40 minutes.) It rose 2000 feet and had 27 major trestles - about half of both the total elevation change and the number major trestles of the entire line. If you enjoy our monthly articles, you will really enjoy our museum and pioneer village. Our summer hours are 10 am to 4 p.m., Monday, Tuesday, Friday, and Saturday, and 1 to 4 p.m. on Sunday. SEE HISTORY COME ALIVE! Can you help identify these cowboys? Join us for: Living History May 2nd & Heritage Days Sacramento Mountains Historical Museum & Pioneer Village June 18-20 Please call for additional information: Office (575) 682-2932 Email: smhsmuseumoffice@ yahoo.com FUN FOR THE ENTIRE FAMILY! Re-enactors, Demonstrations, and Historical Exhibits! SMHS would like to thank the Cloudcrof t Chamber of Commerce, The Village of Cloudcroft, and the NM Department of Tourism for their generosity and assistance in our advertising effort! PAGE 3 This is a neat photo. I actually know a little bit about it by the writing. It is of the Elk Cowboy Team and was taken by Jim Alexander in Cloudcroft on July 4, 1912. We would love to know who some of the cowboys are and I am hopeful that someone may recognize one or more of the gentlemen pictured. Thanks so much for your help! Kind Regards, Windy Jenkins, Director (575) 682-2932 MOUNTAIN TIMES - MAY 2009 ISSUE 1-575-987-2523 with the county on the paper work to change it Joan Schug donated horse blankets for the end TIMBERON DEVELOPMENT COUNCIL Minutes of the Meeting Held April 11, 2009 from private to public. The Timberon Airstrip is tables which look very nice. Gwen has someone The meeting was called to order by President Everett Putney at 10:00 am. The Pledge of Allegiance to the flag was given followed by a prayer from B.F. Adams. Everett asked if anyone would like the minutes read from the previous meeting. Scott Millar made a motion to accept the minutes as submitted. Rick Merrick seconded the motion and the minutes were approved. The Treasurer’s report was given by Gwen Adams. A motion was made by Donna Millar to accept the report. B.F. Adams seconded the motion and the motion was approved. Gwen read the bills which totaled $155.00. Donna Millar made a motion to pay our bills. Ron McCormick seconded the motion and it was approved. Rick Merrick gave a report on the Park Thinning Project. Rick and Jim Ackermann have completed Mary Glover Park, Shallow Creek Park and Deer Park. He reminded everyone to turn in the hours spent cutting the wood and hauling for fire wood to Fran Trendler. We need these hours for the grant as in kind service. Everett mentioned he has the signs for each of the parks and will get them installed at a later date. Rick advised everyone to drive by the parks and think of projects we can do in the parks. Gwen Adams advised water to Mary Glover Park is still an issue. Everett said he will mention it to Otero County and Timberon Water & Sanitation District. Rick gave an update on the Community Action Plan. A draft copy is available for review and it will be put on the web sight. He thanked the committee for all of their hard work in putting it together. Everett mentioned he had reviewed it and it is one of the best documents for presentation, documentation etc. Jackie Fioretti reminded Rick to add a signature page for the supporting agencies. Everett mentioned he didn’t think we would need more than twenty five copies of the laminated final copy. Everett gave an update on the Timberon Airstrip. There is a possibility Otero County will pay the Liability Insurance this year. Everett is working with the county on this item which is due this month. He also advised an engineer is working PAGE 4 an economic development for Timberon. The T.D.C. is not compensated for managing and maintaining the airstrip. The weeds are starting to be a problem on the runway. Work needs to be done on the tie downs. There was discussion of having another fly-in. The Timberon Development Council, Inc. has three pieces of property to be sold. After discussion, John Howell made a motion to give all three properties to Roberts Realty to sell for us. Charles Cummings seconded the motion and it passed. Everett mentioned he had taken soil samples of the lower lake to an engineer in El Paso but after the last TWSD meeting he has dropped the study. TWSD, would like to get the lake open and they are talking about putting a liner in the lake instead of using the bentonite. Ron McCormick mentioned TWSD would like to use the upper lake for fly fishing. We need volunteers to clean up the lower lake. It was agreed to schedule the clean up on May 14, 15 & 16. This will be finalized at our May 9th meeting. Mark your calendar, sharpen your saw blades, shovels etc. fill your lawn mowers with gasoline and come join us. We usually have a fun time along with all of the work. Gwen Adams gave a report on the July 4th event. She mentioned we have a “Western Days” Logo. Fourteen events have been confirmed and five are pending. We have seven venders confirmed and B.F. mentioned we need more food vendors. We will need volunteers to help repair the picnic tables and fix the hot dogs for the youths that will rake the pine needles in front of the lodge. Everett mentioned the erosion ruts in the lawn need to be filled in with dirt. The Timberon Volunteer Fire Department will have their pancake breakfast, Mary Hamlet is in charge of the parade and Jeremy McMahon is having his ATV run that weekend. There are costume contests, pie contests etc. B. F. Adams is in charge of the booth assignments. Everett mentioned the bill for the liability insurance on this event will be forthcoming. Gwen gave a report on the beautification of the lodge. The curtains and cornice boards are up. MOUNTAIN TIMES - MAY 2009 ISSUE to make the shelf brackets and use the organic wood with a rough cut for the shelves. She is looking for ideas to display the history of the lodge. If you have an idea call her. Rick Merrick gave a report on attending the second meeting of the Southwest Sustainable Forest Partnership. This organization is out of Arizona and identifies ways to use small diameter wood. It is a networking for small businesses. All of the agencies such as State Forestry, Bureau of Land Management etc. are represented at these meetings. Ruidoso is utilizing 100% of their slash from tree thinning. Rick also mentioned there is a New Mexico Forest Industries Association from Santa Fe, New Mexico who is a non profit organization. Their purpose is to help non profit organizations to find out about grant workshops, training, and equipment needs. The membership for this is $50.00 per year to receive their e-mails. Gwen Adams made a motion for TDC to pay for the membership and Scott Millar seconded it. The motion passed and Rick will be TDC’s representative to receive the e-mails from this organization. Everett Putney mentioned Otero County will pave another mile of our Sacramento Road this year and there isn’t any money in the budget for next year. He also read an e-mail from Burt Rubinowitz on providing cellular phone service in Timberon. This is ongoing and nothing final yet. He also mentioned there is a need for recycling within Timberon. Perhaps the existing trash contractor has containers for recycling. Ron mentioned there is a place in Alamogordo which will pay twenty five cents per pound for recycling. There will be more on this later. T.D.C. has caps for sale; they are ten dollars each. Scott Millar mentioned next month we will be celebrating Memorial Day and please take time to honor our war dead who gave the ultimate sacrifice for our country. Timberon’s Memorial Service will be held at 8:00 a.m. on Monday, May 25th at the cemetery. Not at 10:00 a.m. as previously announced. This will be the 25th annual observance in Timberon and should be a very special event. Gwen mentioned the church is thinking about providing coffee and donuts this day. Scott also encouraged everyone to wear a “Buddy Poppy”, not just on Memorial Day but all year as a remembrance of the fallen. All donations from the Buddy Poppies go directly into Veteran and Community Services locally. The Cloudcroft High School has asked the VFW to present the “Voice of Democracy” awards on May 13th at 1:00 p.m. during the school wide awards program. Everyone in Timberon is invited to attend. He mentioned without TDC the VFW “Voice of Democracy” Program would not have been such a success. State Secretary of NM Department of Veteran’s Service, John Garcia is looking for a location for a Veteran’s Retreat Center. After discussion it was suggested we invite him to our May meeting. Rick reminded everyone to think about reactivating the Community Action Team. This committee would research grants, review proposals etc., and make recommendations at the T.D.C meetings. Don’t forget your recipes for the cook books! The meeting adjourned at 11:45am. The May meeting will be Sat. May 09, 2009 at 10:00 a.m. at the T. D.C. Office, 1841 Sacramento. These are open meetings and everyone is invited. Respectfully submitted, Jackie Fioretti, Secretary 1-575-987-2523 TIMBERON’S GRADUATING SENIORS Sean Ross mitch Goss Mitch is the son of Gary and Debbie Goss of Ruidoso, NM. and the grandson of Paul and Peggy Goss of Timberon. Mitch was born in El Paso, TX. and moved to Timberon in 1994. He attended the local Timberon school until 3rd grade when the school closed and he was bused to the Cloudcroft school systems. Mitch has a 4.0 grade point average and will be graduating as class salutatorian. Mitch is enrolled for the fall at N.M.S.U. in Las Cruces., where he is currently thinking of majoring in graphic arts. Chelsea Flora Chelsea is the daughter of Dwyn (Lynn) Hicks of Timberon. Chelsea was born in Hobbs, NM where she lived until she moved to Timberon with her mom in 1998. She plans on first attending NMSU-A in Alamogordo and eventually transferring to a college in Georgia. She will work on receiving her veterinary technician certification, moving on to a surgical tech degree and possibly even animal massage therapy. Chelsea’s states ,” My dream is to make it through college successfully and start out at a good pace when I get out of college.” Sean is the son of James and Yvonne Ross, nephew of Kevin and Danelle Ross. Sean was born in El Paso and has lived in Timberon almost all of his life. Sean also attended the Timberon school until the 3rd grade. Sean will be attending N.M.S.U. in the fall where he plans on studying in the media arts field to become a concept artist. (A concept artist is one who generates a visual design for an item, character, or area that does not yet exist. This includes, film production, animation production and more recently video game production.) Kaylie Sexton www.ocec-inc.com Kaylie is the daughter of Craig and Donna Sexton. She was born in Big Spring, Tx and has lived in Timberon since she was nine years old. Office 575-682-2521 Outage Assistance 1-800-548-4660 Come to the : Timberon Graduation Dinner Saturday May 16th 5:30 Meat, desserts, and drinks will be provided. Please bring a side dish. EVERYONE IS WELCOME! Send in this entry form to win: Dinner for two at the SPRING MOUNTAIN RESTAURANT (A $25.00 GIFT CERTIFICATE) Name____________________________________________ Phone number_____________________________________ Address___________________________________________ Mountain Times Newspaper P.O. Box 266 Timberon, NM 88350 All entries must be received by May 20th, 2009. No facsimiles. SPRING MOUNTAIN RESTAURANT & TRADING POST We Use ONLY US Farm Raised Catfish Best BBQ and Catfish in New Mexico HOURS: Thursday, Fri, & Sat 11am - 8pm Sun 11 am - 3 pm CLOSED Mon-Wed. HWY 82 Mile Marker 12 (Between High Rolls and Cloudcroft) Call in Orders (575) 682-4550 PAGE 5 MOUNTAIN TIMES - MAY 2009 ISSUE Cobbler Cider Southwestern Art Local Crafts & Collectibles All-You-Can-Eat Catfish Fridays & Saturdays 5:00-Closing Reservations Suggested 1-575-987-2523 Facts from a Pharmacist By Dave Eerkes What is Giardia? Giardia or Giardiasis is also known as traveler’s diarrhea. Giardiasis is an infection of the small intestine caused by a microscopic organism (protozoa), Giardia lamblia. Giardiasis outbreaks can occur in communities in both developed and developing countries where water supplies become contaminated with raw sewage. It can be contracted by drinking water from lakes or streams where water-dwelling animals such as beavers and muskrats, or domestic animals such as sheep, have caused contamination. It is also spread by direct person-to-person contact, which has caused outbreaks in institutions such as day care centers. Travelers are at risk for Giardiasis throughout the world. Campers and hikers are at risk if they drink untreated water from streams and lakes. Symptoms are abdominal pain, diarrhea, gas or bloating, headache, loss of appetite, low-grade fever, nausea, swollen or distended abdomen and vomiting. The time between being infected and developing symptoms is 7-14 days. The acute phase lasts 2-4 weeks. Treatment for Giardiasis could be letting the infection go away on its own. Anti-infective medicines may be used. Cure rates are generally greater than 80%. Drug resistance may be a factor in treatment failures, sometimes requiring a change in antibiotic therapy. In pregnant women, treatment should wait until after delivery, because some of the drugs used to treat the infection can be harmful to the unborn baby. It is common for the infection to go away on its own. However, persistent infections have been reported and need further antibiotic treatment. Some people who have had Giardia infections for a long time continue having symptoms even after the infection is gone. Complications from Giardia can be dehydration, mal absorption (inadequate absorption of nutrients from the intestinal tract), and weight loss. You can prevent Giardia by using a water purification method such as boiling, filtration, or iodine treatment before drinking surface water. Hikers or others who use surface water should consider all sources as potentially contaminated. Workers in day care centers or institutions should use good hand washing and hygiene techniques when going from patient to patient. E-mail or send your questions to Dave at [email protected] or Mountain Times Newspaper P.O. Box 266, Timberon, NM 88350 UDALL INTRODUCES LEGISLATION TO MAKE SKIES, ROADS SAFER Bill Requires Airline Training On Air Rage, Intoxicated Passengers U.S. Senator Tom Udall, D-N.M., today introduced legislation supported by Mothers Against Drunk Driving (MADD) and the Association of Flight Attendants (AFA-CWA) that would require airlines to train employees and gate attendants on recognizing and dealing with intoxicated or belligerent passengers. To watch Udall’s introduction speech on the floor of the U.S. Senate Chamber, click http://www.youtube. com/watch?v=5WImV3dwMAQ. Current federal regulations prohibit an intoxicated person from boarding a flight, but it is not mandatory for airlines to provide training to ensure that regulations are obeyed. Udall’s legislation would mandate that all airline and gate attendants receive alcohol server training to better determine if a customer should board a flight or be served alcohol, and to manage drunk or belligerent customers onboard. “This legislation would ensure that airline personnel get the information they need to help keep travelers safe,” said Udall. “They are the front line in keeping air passengers safe and they deserve training to match that responsibility.” Udall was prompted to research airline alcohol server protocol in 2006 after a drunk driving accident occurred in his district resulting in the deaths of five family members and leaving one survivor. The family of six was driving home from a soccer match on I-25 when they were struck by a drunk driver speeding down the wrong side of the interstate. The driver, who also died in the accident, had a blood alcohol content level four times the legal limit. According to other passengers, just hours before the accident, he was noticeably intoxicated on board a flight to New Mexico. In the course of his research on airline personnel training, Udall also discovered that “air rage” incidents—dangerous outbursts by airline passengers frequently fueled by a combination of anxiety and alcohol—have risen 400 percent since 2000. Roughly 10,000 incidents occur each year in the United States alone, and experts believe that most are driven by excessive alcohol consumption. Flight attendants are often the only personnel capable of controlling who boards a plane, onboard alcohol consumption, and outbursts when they occur. Many may never receive training on how to execute this important Timberon Rentals responsibility. “Unfortunately, my legislation cannot stop all tragic drunk driving accidents from occurring,” said Udall. “But it will make it easier for flight attendants to protect passengers from air rage and more difficult for intoxicated air passengers to deplane and drive.” MOUNTAINTOP ELECTRIC CORP. NM EE-98 LIC #359616 P.O. BOX 409 TIMBERON, NM 88350 LICENSED * BONDED * INSURED JOHN SIRACUSANO PH/FAX (575) 987-2341 [email protected] ~ Skin Care at the Spa ~ Timberon, NM Facials 575-987-2201 Massages Spa Tan Pedicue and Manicure Waxing Permanent Makeup Apartments Microdermabrasion Facial is an alternative to laser or chemical peel. The non-invasive treatment can reduce sun damage, age spots, fine lines and acne scarring. Your skin is polished and dead skin cells a actually vacuumed away! This is all done by a trained professional... leaving your skin fresh and renewed... $75.00 Two and tHree Bedroom Houses The Royal Treatment is a great way to pamper yourself or someone you care about. The treatment includes a 30 minute massage, a signature facial designed especially for you, and a total hand and foot treatment... all part of your special day... $145.00 Many other treatments are available to fit any budget. Ask for Liz Noble Walker at the... PRIVATE RV SPACE FOR RENT Noble Spa $35 to $70 per Night $80 per Night 575-437-5175 Kevin & Shantel Keune, Managers PAGE 6 MOUNTAIN TIMES - MAY 2009 ISSUE 1-575-987-2523 Special thanks to the Ruidoso Library Thanks to the Ruidoso library for the generous donation of the approximate 100 audio books on cassette tapes. (Pictured to the left.) If you haven't been to the The Smith Memorial Library in awhile, come down and check it out! The hours of operation are Monday, Wednesday, and Fridays from 11-2. They receive new books and DVD's each week! Not only does the library carry books, but they have a large selection of DVD's, VHS, jigsaw puzzles, and computer games. The library also has a SW section featuring books on New Mexico, large print books, and new arrivals. Please come by Saturday the 4th of July, they will be having a large book sale located outside of the Lodge. ALL books will be only 25 cents! The Smith Memorial Library appreciates any monetary donations or books no older than ten years. We would like to thank all of the generous people for their prior donations and patronage. Stacey Pugmire and her children, Jericho, (almost 3) and Jordan, 10 months regularly visit the children's section of the library where they borrow children’s books, videos, and computer games. Volunteers Needed May 14, 15, and 16 If needed. (Thurs, Fri, Sat) 8:30 AM Your Donation dollars at work! Timberon Development Council is sponsoring a work day at the community lodge fishing lakes. TWSD is targeting this summer for the lakes to open, but a lot of cleanup work is required. Will you help? There are trees to cut, slash to pick up and general cleanup. Tools need: chain saws, rakes, hoes, shovels, etc. The Timberon Volunteer Fire Department would like to thank Jim Sims of Sierra Propane for the donation of the concrete to finish the slab for the JFE 1 fire truck. Also, thanks to Steve Worrell from Sierra Mesa Construction for donating his time and labor. Pictured from left to right: Steve Worrell, Joe Wheeler; Fire Chief, Joe Bob Shields, of Sierra Propane, and Richard Rodriquez; Assistant Fire Chief. SANDERS & DANLEY 2521 Nor th Florida - (505) 437-3820 Alamogordo, New Mexico Since 1959 Thank you to the people of Timberon for your generous donations! PAGE 7 MOUNTAIN TIMES - MAY 2009 ISSUE 1-575-987-2523 Teenager Appreciates Military Veterans and War Heroes Hello. My name is Kyle Nappi. I am 18 years old and I live in Ostrander, Ohio. I am currently a Senior at Buckeye Valley High School. I have a big interest in history, specifically WWII. I collect military medals, patches, badges, insignia, field gear, and a very unique thing, veteran autographs. I have a collection of autographs from military veterans who served during WWI, WWII, Korea, Vietnam, Gulf War, and the present war in Iraq. I have collected the autographs and stories from nearly 2,000 veterans in 20 countries. The oldest veteran is currently 112 years old and the youngest enlisted at age 14. I have autographs from Pearl Harbor survivors, D-Day veterans, airman, POWs, the last WWI veterans, generals, U.S. Presidents, USS Indianapolis survivors, Holocaust survivors, and even German soldiers! Back in June I was interview by PBS, to talk about my collection for an interview that was to be shown online (YouTube). After that, I was interviewed for "The Columbus World War II Roadshow." You can find this interview on YouTube under "Kyle Nappi." I was recently interviewed by the American Legion for an article that appeared in their August magazine. Here is an internet link to the online article: http://www.legion.org/whatsnew/ publications/newsletter/story?id=635 I also had the privilege of going to Washington, D.C. in March of 2008. I was invited to the Pentagon, by the Secretary of Defense (Robert Gates) for a Ceremony honoring WWI veterans. I was able to meet with the Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff, Mike Mullen as well with the last American WWI veteran, Frank Buckles. He is the last surviving WWI veteran... out of nearly 5 million that served. He's the last survivor. Before not to long, the WWII veterans will dwindle down as well (sadly nearly 1,100 die each day), and we must not only remember their stories, but the ones who did not come home. "All gave some, some gave all." There are so many people, my age, who don’t fully understand the magnitude about the veterans and what they Above: did for our country. I think Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff, Navy Admiral Mike it's inspiring to these Mullen and myself in the Pentagon for the WWI Ceremony. veterans when, someone is asking for their autographs/ military experiences, but also when the person asking is that of my age. I have received letters from veterans who thank me for what I am doing and that it is unfortunate that so many people tend to forget these stories. Some veterans have even sent me their military insignia, medals, books, etc (one veteran even sent his POW dog tag) simply because they say that Mr. Frank Buckles, and myself. He is the last surviving American there is no one in their family who WWI veteran. He was 108 in February. cares about it. I think it's amazing that they would send all this to me, have for them about their service time. a complete stranger to them. My main purpose for writing is to share with So, overall, I am trying to obtain as many you that there are people from my generation autographs/stories from veterans as I can to who do remember the past and the sacrifices ensure that their stories are not forgotten. This that were made for our country. is a hobby that keeps me quite busy - I get over Thank you very much for your time. 5 things in the mail each day, followed by 1015+ e-mails, fielding phone calls, writing up Sincerely, letters, sending out letters (a lot of postage) to numerous veterans, locating/finding addresses, Kyle Nappi typing up the questions, translating the letters 1890 Warren Rd. (for those foreign veterans), etc. It is also a Ostrander, OH 43061 USA costly hobby as well – a lot of money goes into Phone Number: 740-363-8095 postage, envelopes, paper, ink, etc. Some people E-mail: [email protected] have sent books of stamps to help defray shipping costs. This is pretty much a daily routine so it's almost like my job, so to speak. If any veterans would like to get in touch, I will provide them with a questionnaire, which includes some basic questions I (575) 434-3042 Introducing A new "pet vac" Which has now been installed in the dog wash. (575) 682-2645 Vet (24 Hours) 575 682-2910 PAGE 8 MOUNTAIN TIMES - MAY 2009 ISSUE 1-575-987-2523 The Meaning of Memorial Day By Scott Millar Commander, VFW Post 11999 Cloudcroft, NM Memorial Day is a sacred day to all war veterans. None need to be reminded of the reason that Memorial Day must be commemorated, but what about the general public, and more important, future generations? Do most non-veterans really recognize the importance of the day honoring their fellow Americans killed in war? Judging from what Memorial Day has become— simply another day off from work—the answer is a resounding no. Perhaps a reminder is due then, and it is my duty as a veteran to relay the message. Sacrifice is meaningless without remembrance. America’s collective consciousness demands that all citizens recall and be aware of the deaths of their fellow countrymen during wartime. Far too often, the nation as a whole takes for granted the freedoms all Americans enjoy. Those freedoms were paid for with the lives of others few of us actually knew. That’s why they are all collectively remembered on one special day. This should be regarded as a civic obligation. For this is a national debt that can only be truly repaid by individual Americans. By honoring the nation’s war dead, we preserve their memory and thus their service and sacrifice in the memories of future generations. They came from all walks of life and regions of the country. But they all had one thing in common— love of and loyalty to country. This bond cemented ties between them in times of trials, allowing a diverse lot of Americans to achieve monumental ends. We remember the loss of loved ones, a sense of loss that takes group form. In essence, America is commemorating those who made the greatest sacrifice possible—giving one’s own life on behalf of others. Means of paying tribute vary. Pausing for a few moments of personal silence is available to everyone. Attending commemorative ceremonies is the most visible way of demonstrating remembrance: Placing flags at grave sites, marching in parades, sponsoring patriotic programs, dedicating memorials and wearing Buddy Poppies are examples. Whether done individually or collectively, it is the thought that counts. Personal as well as public acts of remembering are the ideal. Public displays of patriotism are essential if the notion of remembering war dead is to be instilled in youth. As America’s older war veterans fast disappear from society’s landscape, there are fewer and fewer standard-bearers left to carry the torch of remembrance. Such traditions will live on only if there is a vibrant movement to which that torch can be passed. Now, more than in recent years, the enduring relevance of Memorial Day should be clearly evident. With two wars under way, the public has no excuse not to remember. This much is owed to the more than 4,500 Americans who have died thus far in Afghanistan and Iraq. I would encourage the community to please join Sacramento Mountains VFW Post 11999 at one of two Memorial Day Services. In the Cloudcroft Area a service will be held at 8:00 AM on Memorial Day, Monday May 25th, at James Canyon Cemetery. A second service will be held at the Timberon Cemetery on the same date and time. The Timberon service will mark the 25th consecutive Memorial Day Service for that community. Please take the time out of your busy holiday weekend to join us for these important memorials. Timberon Memorial Day Services Monday May 25th will be the 25th Annual Memorial Day Observance in Timberon. The VFW will be conducting the service/observance at 8:00 am at the Timberon Cemetery. The Timberon Baptist Chapel has offered to provide coffee and doughnuts after the service. Homes AND Land $99,950.00 Timberon Golf Course Unit 6, Block 16, Lot 23A This home was built in 1984, it is 1212 sq.ft. with an attached garage (588 sq.ft.+/-). 3 beds, 1 3/4 bath, with fireplace, washer and dryer, dishwasher. Home is fully furnished, located on .996 ac. +/- in the Ponderosa Pines with a 10'x12' deck area. $ 141,00.00 Timberon Unit 8, Block 92, Lot 6/home, Lot 4, Lot 5 and Lot 7 All Lots combined is 2.0 acres +/1985 site built home is 2055 sq. ft on 2. acres +/- . Large Master bedroom with 3/4 bath and walk-in closet. 2 guest beds and another 3/4 guest bath. Large kitchen with custom cabinets and dining room area. Laundry room is off kitchen. Large family room with air tight wood heater, central heat and ceiling fans. Open deck (786. sq. ft.+/-) that wraps around 1/2 of home. A new metal roof was put on in 2005. Detached 588. sq. ft. +/- garage. This home is a must see!!! Seller will look at reasonable offers. In Flander's Field By John McCrae In Flanders Fields the poppies blow, Between the crosses, row on row, That mark our place; and in the sky, The larks, still bravely singing, fly, Scarce heard amid the guns below. We are the dead. Short days ago, We lived, felt dawn, saw sunset glow, Loved and were loved and now we lie, In Flanders Fields. Take up our quarrel with the foe To you, from failing hands, we throw, The torch, be yours to hold it high. If ye break faith with us, who die, We shall not sleep, though poppies grow, In Flanders Fields. Sacramento Mountain Ranches Unit 4, Block 16, Lot 6 $109,900.00 Studio home (one room living) with 1000 sq.ft. and large 3/4 bath, kitchen, laundry room located on 5.026 acres. Water, power and propane are already there .Covered deck is 40’x6’ on south side. Ideal for horse property! Good percentage of land is flat and cleared so you can put up corrals right away. Beautiful view. ROBERTS REALTY PO Box 1, Timberon NM 88350 575-987-2440 WWW.timberonnm.com Yard Maintenance Wood Chipping Fire wood Get Your Gas and Diesel Here! OPEN EVERY DAY 10-5 (575) 987-2357 PAGE 9 Josie’s Has NM LOTTERY TICKETS! MOUNTAIN TIMES -MAY 2009 ISSUE 1-575-987-2523 a possibility of moisture through FIRE SAFETY REMINDER AS HUNTING SEASON APPROACHES the upcoming weekend. With this “It’s been extremely dry over the past four months, said James Villard, Fire Management Officer, Fire Program Manager. “Even though the Lincoln National Forest recorded some measurable rain or snow over the past couple of weekends, many parts of the forest received very little precipitation. Please follow safe practices creating or using fire.” Warm temperatures, lack of snow, dry winds, and abundant dry grass are causing fire danger to increase rapidly on the Lincoln National Forest. Little to no moisture has occurred on the Lincoln National Forest and with spring in place, the chances for precipitation gradually decrease. As a reminder, turkey season begins April 15, 2009. Patrols by forest personnel have been in place and will continue as the season progresses. Patrolling will be done seven days a week with extended hours to ensure recreationists, hunters or campers practice safe fire etiquette. Keep a bucket with water and hand tools ready in case your fire should attempt to spread. Ensure campfires are completely extinguished before you leave the area. Keep vehicles on well-maintained roads at all times. Fires can ignite as a result of hot car exhaust systems coming in contact with tall, dry fuels. “ Th e we at h e r o u t l o o k p re d i c t s chance of rain, they are also calling for increased wind activity and chances for dry lightning. The fine fuels (grasses) would benefit from the rain showers but the trees, logs and branches or larger fuels need a significant rainfall to reduce the fire danger. With the fuel moisture this low, chances of fires igniting are greatly increased,” said Jacque Buchanan, Lincoln National Forest Supervisor. “We are fortunate to have additional fire crews, engines, fire prevention personnel and air support stationed throughout the Forest as a precaution.” Based on the current forecast, the Forest is considering Stage 2 Fire Restrictions beginning April 16, 2009. Please stay abreast of wildfire danger levels. Look for the famous Smokey Bear fire danger rating signs along highways. Call your local US Forest Service office for more information to receive tips on fire prevention. Lincoln National Forest officials would like everyone’s help to keep our forest free from fires for the duration of this fire season. “Know Before You Go.” Additional fire information can be obtained at http://www.fs.fed.us/r3/fire/ or call toll free 1-877-864-6985. Or the Sacramento Ranger District Office at (575) 682-2551, Monday through Friday, 7:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Please review our website at: http:// www.fs.fed.us/r3/lincoln. Grandma Peggy’s Recipe BEEF AND MUSHROOM PIE In 2Tb. of butter lightly brown rice and vermicelli from one package of Rice-aroni. Add 1Lb. ground beef; finely crumble and continue browning. Stir in 3 cups of hot water, 1 can of mushrooms, contents of beef flavor packet, 1tsp. salt,1/4 tsp. pepper. Cover and simmer 15 minutes. Cool slightly; stir in two slightly beaten eggs. Fill a 9” pie shell with rice-a-roni mixture. Garnish with 3 cooked slices of bacon. Bake on a cookie sheet at 400 degrees 20-25 min. Serves 4-6. (Answers are from 2nd grade school children) How did God make mothers? He used dirt like the rest of us. What ingredients are mothers made of? God makes mothers out of clouds and angel hair and everything nice in the world and one dab of mean. What did your mom need to know about dad before she married him? 1. His last name. 2. She had to know his background. Like is he a crook? Does he get drunk on beer? 3. Does he make at least $800 a year? Did he say NO to drugs and yes to chores? Why did your mom marry your dad? 1. My dad makes the best spaghetti in the world and mom eats a lot. 2. She got too old to do anything else with him. 3. My grandma says that Mom didn’t have her thinking cap on. What would it take to make your mom perfect? 1. On the inside she’s already perfect. Outside, I think some kind of plastic surgery. 2. Diet..you know, her hair. I’d diet blue. If you could change one thing about your mom, what would it be? 1. She has a weird thing about me keeping my room clean. I’d get rid of that. Office (575) 987-2523 Cell: (575) 491-3113 Fax: (575) 987-2546 Happy Mother’s Day on May 10th. WEED COUNTRY STORE I would like a subscription to the Mountain Times 3 Agua Chiquita Weed, NM (575) 687-3040 Covering Timberon and the Sacramento Mountains of New Mexico __ $15.00 (12 issues, Bulk rate) __ New Subscription __$26.00 (24 issues, Bulk rate) __ Gift __ Renewal OPEN: name: ____________________________________________________________________________________ Address: _________________________________________________________________________________ city: ____________________________________________ state: ______________ zip: __________________ Phone: _________________________________ Email: _____________________________________________ GAS Send this form and your check to Mountain Times, PO Box 266, Timberon, NM 88350 REMEMBER TO SUPPORT YOUR LOCAL BUSINESSES. THEY ARE VERY IMPORTANT TO THE COMMUNITY! PAGE 10 MOUNTAIN TIMES - MAY 2009 ISSUE 7:30-5:00 Monday-Saturday 10:00-4:00 Sunday GIF GROCERIES TOBACCO COLLECTIBLES TS SUNDAY LUNCH 11:00-3:00 1-575-987-2523 What’s Happening on the Sacramento Range District NM State Forestry FOREST NEWS OPEN HOUSE! The Sacramento Ranger Station will have their open house celebration on Friday, May 15th from 10:00 am to 2:00 p.m. Everyone is welcome to come visit with employees, tour the building, and enjoy light refreshments. Come say hi to Smokey Bear. OFFICE HOURS AND NEW LOCATION! The Sacramento Ranger District Office is located on Highway 130, 1 mile south of Highway 82 from the Village of Cloudcroft in our new facility at 4 Lost Lodge Road. The office is open Monday - Friday from 7:30 am to 4:30 p.m. and closed Saturday and Sunday. TOLL FREE FIRE DISPATCH Call 1-877-695-1663, a 24 hour toll free phone number, to report possible wildfires. We encourage all readers to first contact the County Sheriff’s Office at (575) 437-2210 and the Ranger District at (575) 682-2551 to report any visible smoke. Size up what you see and report the location as accurately as you can. Residents are required to notify the county sheriff if they are going to burn slash on their private lands. CHECK OUT OUR NEW BOOKSTORE We have BLM and USGS topographic maps on hand. Many excellent books on history, wildlife, birds and other critters are available. The very best hiking book on trails in the Lincoln National Forest is John W. Stockerts’“Trail Guide” available for $19.00. Forest Service plasticized paper maps are available for $10.00. FOREST WIDE CAMPING INFORMATION The campgrounds and picnic sites at James Canyon, Upper Karr, and Bluff Springs are open year round. Our campgrounds are operated by the concessionaire Recreation Resource Management, http://www.camprrm.com and they are available on a first come, first served basis. The Group Campgrounds are available by reservation at http://www.recreation.gov We would like forest guests to be aware that there are hundreds of traditional, pleasant, and remote throw-down areas for tent and small RV camping throughout the Sacramento Ranger District. Please call our district office at (575) 682-2551 for further information. HIKING/TRAILS Some trails on the Sacramento Ranger District have received increase use and are marked. Motorized trails seem to be By Jerry Lutz US Forest Department especially impacted by the recent rains and have deteriorated due to erosion and use in wet/muddy conditions. Please help us by using the trails responsibly and reporting any damaged trails to the Sacramento Ranger District at (575) 682-2551. FIRE SEASON AND RESTRICTIONS “Know Before You Go”. Lincoln National Forest officials would like everyone’s help to keep our forest free from fires for the duration of this fire season. Please stay abreast of wildfire danger levels. Look for the famous Smokey Bear fire danger rating signs along our highways. Contact the Sacramento Ranger District office (575) 682-2551, to find out the status of fire restrictions and what they may mean to you. Seasonal drying, windy conditions and warmer temperatures are common at this time of year. Ensure campfires, when permitted, are attended to at all times, and that they are dead out prior to walking away from them, don't throw cigarettes or matches out of a vehicle and park only in areas clear of cured grass and other herbaceous vegetation. REDUCE THE RISK OF WILDFIRE IN YOUR COMMUNITY Visit the Firewise Communities website at www.firewise.org to see what can be done in your community to protect people, property, and natural resources from the risk of wildfire before a fire starts. We also have literature here at the district office, please come by and pick one up. SLASH PIT SCHEDULE Please call the district office (575) 682-2551, for information on dates when the slash pit will be open. There may be no plans to open in May because it is near capacity and needs to be burned. The slash pit is located on Highway 244 near the junction of Highway 82. This is available for individual home and property owners to dispose of woody debris resulting from yard work and the creation and maintenance of defensible space around homes and structures. BACK COUNTRY ETHICS In the back country forest lands you are on your own, be prepared. We are ruled by the authority of nature in the backwoods. Our environment and conditions change rapidly and we should adjust our safety awareness to reduce uncertainty and risk. Be willing and able to take care of yourself and the back country you delight in. Pack out what you pack in and leave the public lands better than you found them. FUELWOOD AREAS AND PERMITS Fenimore, Long Ridge and Benson are open for personal fuelwood gathering. Fenimore fuelwood area is off Forest Service road 64D (Alamo Peak Road) to Forest Service Road 639, 4 cords of mixed conifer, oak, or aspen for $20.00. Long Ridge fuelwood area, is 14 miles south of High Rolls on West Side Road, (Forest Service Road. 90), two cords of juniper and piñon for $20.00. Benson fuelwood area is along Forest Service Rd. 223 (Benson Ridge Rd.), four cords of mixed conifer for $20.00. The Benson Area has been extended to include two temporary roads that access more wood. This will be an excellent area as long as the road is dry. Don’t wait until it rains to take advantage of this opportunity. Fuelwood permits are required before gathering and are available at the Sacramento Ranger District Office in Cloudcroft or in the Supervisor's Office in Alamogordo. OFF HIGHWAY VEHICLES (OHV’s and ATV’s) The Sacramento district has 235 miles of trails and 2000 miles of forest roads, of which 80 percent are considered suitable for ATV’s and motorcycles less than 50” in width. New Mexico state motor vehicle laws apply on Forest Service roads, vehicles that are registered and operated by a licensed driver are permitted. ATV users are to keep in mind that trails and roads are shared with other users, hikers, horses, backpackers, children, and adults. The Forest Service has a list of trails that will suit your needs. If you are interested in ATV/OHV use on our motorized trails, check out this website on regulations for riding in New Mexico: http://www.newmexico.org/ohv/index. php JOIN US IN THE FOREST SERVICE All position openings are listed on-line at (www.usajobs.opm.gov). Your office could be in the great outdoors. PAGE 11 MOUNTAIN TIMES - MAY 2009 ISSUE 1-575-987-2523 How Does the Stimulus Plan Affect You? It’s Good to Get Some Advice Now The biggest benefit from the $787.2 billion federal stimulus package will hopefully be a noticeable improvement in the nation’s economy. But on an individual level, it’s wise to check if you might be eligible for benefits in health care, education, various tax credits and housing. A visit with a tax expert or a financial adviser such as a CERTIFIED FINANCIAL PLANNER™ professional can help you determine the best ways to use the following provisions that may affect you. It’s also a good idea to get a financial checkup in an uncertain economy for the following reasons: Educational provisions: College student aid: The package awards $15.6 billion to increase maximum individual student Pell grants by $500. American Opportunity Tax Credit: This credit temporarily provides taxpayers with a new tax credit of up to $2,500 of the cost of tuition and related expenses, though it phases out for taxpayers with adjusted gross income in excess of $80,000 ($160,000 for married couples filing jointly). Forty percent of the available credit is refundable. 529 Plans: The scope of allowable education expenses expands to include computers and computer technology. Tax credit provisions: One more cap for the Alternative Minimum Tax (AMT): Lawmakers put one more patch on the AMT to protect a wider number of people from • As much as it might hurt to look at the performance of your current getting hit. This latest break for potential AMT targets increases the retirement accounts and other investments, the economy will recover. exemption amounts to $46,700 ($70,950 for married couples). The bill When an upturn comes, it’s wise to position your holdings to take full would also exclude interest on all private activity bonds issued in 2009 advantage of the recovery. and 2010 from the AMT. • Your future plans with regard to spending for your home, your family “Making Work Pay” Tax Credits: This is the refundable tax credit of up to and your education come into sharp focus under the stimulus plan, and $400 for individuals and $800 for families for 2009 and 2010 that would making these provisions work for you in the short-term should be part phase out for taxpayers with adjusted gross income in excess of $75,000 of a long-term plan. ($150,000 for married couples). This isn’t a lump sum payment, but instead • If you fear your job might be in danger in the coming months or you is reflected in reduced payroll taxes. might be facing pay or benefit cuts, it’s good to talk through your personal Car Buyers Tax Credit: This allows a deduction for state and local sales finances before your employer makes a move. The best time to prepare and excise taxes paid on the purchase of a new vehicle through 2009. for a job loss is while you’re still making a salary. Not only is it a good This deduction is phased out for taxpayers with adjusted gross income opportunity to build an emergency fund, but it’s generally easier to look in excess of $125,000 ($250,000 in the case of a joint return). for new opportunities while you still have your current one. Expanded Child Credit: This increases the eligibility for the refundable Here’s a quick summary of the stimulus plan provisions that could affect child tax credit in 2009 and 2010 by reducing the minimum income for your finances. eligibility to $3,000. Earned Income Tax Credit: This provision will create a temporary tax credit increase for working families with three or more children. Housing provisions: Refundable First-Time Homebuyer Credit: First-time buyers can claim a credit worth $8,000 - or 10 percent of the home's value, whichever is less - on their 2008 or 2009 taxes. The added bonus is that the credit is refundable, which means that filers will see a refund of the full $8,000 even if their total tax bill was less than that amount. Unemployment and healthcare-related benefits: Extension of Unemployment Benefits: The package provides 33 weeks of extended benefits through Dec. 31, 2009. Unemployment Compensation: The first $2,400 a person receives in unemployment compensation benefits in 2009 won’t be taxed. Short-Term COBRA Subsidy for Involuntarily Terminated Workers: This provides a 65 percent subsidy for COBRA premiums for up to 9 months, which will put a dent in the considerable cost of COBRA health benefits for the unemployed. This column is produced by the Financial Planning Association, the membership organization for the financial planning community, and is provided by Charles Wagner, a local member of FPA. ASPEN CO. Construction George Corder PO Box 143 Timberon, NM 88350 phone 575-987-2372 NM LIC # 30323 JAMES ACKERMANN TREE TRIMMING 1-877-426-0385 1-575-987-2551 Scrub-Oak Cut - Lot Thinning - Removal Dead - Down - Hazard - Firewood FREE ESTIMATES SATISFACTION GUARANTEED IN GOD WE TRUST PAGE 12 MOUNTAIN TIMES - MAY 2009 ISSUE 1-575-987-2523 If You’re Lucky Enough to Live in the Mountains, You’re Lucky Enough! Dates to Remember May 5: Sac/Weed VFD meeting, 7 p.m. May 10: Mother’s Day. She deserves a break today! May 19: Bookmobile, 1p.m., Weed; 3 p.m., Piñon May 25: Memorial Day observed; Post Office closed May 26: Weed Community Association meeting, 6 p.m., old school building. Come see what you can do to help with the 14th Annual Bluegrass Festival. May 30: Memorial Day Upcoming Events in the Area May 1: Kenny Rogers, Inn of the Mountain Gods May 8-9: Old Timers Reunion, Sacramento Mountains Historical Society, Cloudcroft, 575-682-2932 May 9: High Roll's Chili Cook Off May 9: John Jorgenson Quintet,7:30 p.m., Flick inger Center for Per forming Ar ts, Alamogordo, 575-437- 2202. Tickets: $10, $18, and $25. May 15: Billy the Kid-the Ballet, 7:30 p.m., Flick inger Center for Per forming Ar ts, Alamogordo, $10. May 22-24: Melodrama: Cloudcroft Light Opera Co. Cheer for the hero and boo the villain, fun for the whole family. No admission Fee. 682-2733. May 23-24: Mayfair Juried Art Show, Zenith Park, Cloudcroft, free admission. Info: 575-682-2733 1-ounce letters after the price change, without the need for additional postage. Forever Stamps are widely available through Post Offices, commercial retail outlets such as grocery stores, and online at www.USPS.com. Prices for mailing services will continue to adjust each May. Prices for most shipping services, including Express Mail and Priority Mail, were adjusted in January and will not change in May. Pinon News - Margaret Merritt Buenos Dias to all of you! A wonderful Spring day - no wind of consequence yet, and trees still blooming. Determined to show appreciation for such water as they get in a land so far very short on Spring showers. Some short wet windshield washers and a couple of visible deposits of snow but nothing shocking or threatening in nature. Piñon is quite peaceful during the middle of the day until the mail comes in and the working elsewhere crowd starts homeward. Coming in from any direction is a challenge early and late. The deer population (which outnumbers the human population) will be on the highway, in the highway, and asserting their rights. Arguments with deer R.O.W. are usually a victory for the deer. At Club this week we discussed the usual Club business. Properly (after this day’s way) we interrupted the regular details with an announced request at one or more of the recent funerals held at the Club House, “Why do we have to only come back to Piñon for funerals? Maybe a Piñon reunion?” Sounded like a good idea to us, so we began hashing out the idea. Result so far: we will be working up a list of interested people and families, hopefully with addresses and names. Virtual addresses, P.O. Boxes, e-mail, MYFACE, all are welcome. Our August meeting will be a good beginning, we hope. August 13, 1 p.m., Piñon Club House. Come if you can. If you can’t come, phone, write, e-mail to let us know if you are interested. OK? We are willing to adjust, plan, and make this a regular get-together. NOT just at funerals! w e N , d e e W Keeping You Posted - A Reminder On May 11, the price for a 1-ounce First-Class Mail stamp will increase from 42¢ to 44¢. Prices for other mailing services — standard mail, periodicals, package services (including parcel post), and extra services — will also change. The average increase by class of mail is at or below the rate of inflation as measured by the Consumer Price Index. Customers can use their Forever Stamps —regardless of when purchased — to mail Below are articles taken out of “The Hitchin’ Post” from Weed, New Mexico. You can find the full version on the internet at www.mountaintimes.net, under Weed. You can also drive to Weed and grab a couple of copies. Editor - Patsy Ward. Weed That is per special request by people who travel far to pay the last respects to beloved ones who enjoyed the life of Piñon at some time and choose to be laid to rest in our peaceful, beautiful, well-cared-for cemetery. As of last week, there are stark images of grave markers and headstones which survived a grass fire started on Hwy 24 just north of Piñon and traveling east fast. Half of the cemetery was not touched by fire. The other (north) half will be a fresh green WHEN the rains come, but just now is a stark black/white of burned grass and standing headstones. Shocking sight. Great news today in the Hudspeth County/Dell Valley Herald. A younger person of enthusiasm is on board to help the paper keep up the good work there. Welcome, Drew Stewart! A squib brought out questions on this person’s part. Seems May Carson is in progress to reopen the Cornudas Café on Hwy 62/180. Anyone who ever traveled that country by any mode (foot back, horseback, wagon and team, or motorized vehicle) knows it to be a long, lonely stretch between watering holes and eating places. Cornudas Cafe’s reopening is welcome! Adios ‘til another day. Margaret o c i x e M One of Maxine’s Best! Minorities We need to show more sympathy for these people. * They travel miles in the heat. * They risk their lives crossing a border. * They don’t get paid enough wages. * They do jobs that others won’t do or are afraid to do. * They live in crowded conditions among a people who speak a different language. * They rarely see their families, and they face adversity all day ~ every day. I’m not talking about illegal Mexicans ~ I’m talking about our troops! Doesn’t it seem strange that many Democrats and Republicans are willing to lavish all kinds of social benefits on illegals, but don’t support our troops, and are even threatening to defund them? THE WEED CAFE NEW: Charbroiled Hamburgers Excellent Green Chile Cheeseburgers Always Daily Specials to tantalize your taste buds. Home-Made Desserts (575) 687-3611 Closed Sunday Monday-Thursday 8-3 Fri & Sat 8-7 PAGE 13 Call (575) 556-8514 or toll-free 1-800-230-1840 MOUNTAIN TIMES - MAY 2009 ISSUE 1-575-987-2523 Continued from front page: Human Hummingbird feeder Abigail decided one morning while drinking her coffee and watching out her window that she would like to "touch" one the hummingbirds that swarm her feeder each day. With patience and determination she eventually accomplished her goal. It took her several days of standing beside her feeder so they could get used to her presence. Then she put her hands around the feeder. In order for the hummingbirds to drink, they had to land on her fingers. Her next step was remove the feeder and place a small red cap on an old milk can in the same area. They soon found the small replacement and began feeding. She went outside filled the cap with sugar water and sat very still. Within ten minutes they were resting in her hands. It was sheer delight! Abigail was able to move her hands around a bit with the birds on her fingers. "They are light as a feather..and simply beautiful!" For more information you can check out her website at: www.abigailsings. Close-up of Abigail feeding the hummingbirds taken by Sam Alfano. com/hummingbirds Broad-tailed Hummingbird Length: 4 inches (10 cm) Identification: Medium in size for a hummingbird, the broad-tailed hummingbird has a long, bright green body and a broad, mostly dark tail. With a rose-red gorget (throat), a green crown, and white underparts, the male has a metallic green body, otherwise. Females have also the green crown, but their chin and throat are white with various amounts of dark streaking. The female tail feathers are dark, but have the signature female white tips on the outer tail feathers. Found throughout western America down to southern Mexico and into the highlands of Guatemala, a mountain meadow is a common setting for the broadtailed hummingbird. Metabolic Extremes The hummingbird is one of only a few bird species that can become “torpid,” experiencing an overnight metabolic change that consists of a drop in body temperature— sometimes 20° to 30° Fahrenheit— and a slowing of the heart rate. The coma-like state that results allows for a drastic reduction in their energy consumption while they rest. This helps to counterbalance the extreme amounts of energy hummingbirds expend while awake, an expenditure that requires them to eat half their body weight or more in insects and nectar each day. Hummingbirds are capable of flying at speeds of up to 30 miles per hour, and they are the only species capable of true hovering and backward flight. Unlike other birds, hummingbirds must depend completely on their wings for movement, as most appear unable to walk or hop. If hummingbird wings were compared to their human counterparts, the wings would be virtually all “hand.” This allows for a broader range of movement and control. The muscles that move the wings—which account for about a quarter of the bird’s weight—enable them to hover, move sideways, fly backward, and pivot around an axis point. They can even fly upside down for very brief periods. Hummingbirds never fly in flocks and are known to be territorial, giving chase to every other bird who approaches their flowers or feeders. Each species has a unique cour tship behavior that may vary by location and incorporate different songs or flight patterns. After this flying courtship, only the females settle down to raise a family. Females associate with males only long enough to fertilize the eggs, and males generally have no role in constructing the nest or rearing the young. Nests are about two inches in diameter and are composed of seed, down, lichens, small feathers, green moss, grass, and leaf fragments. These materials are bound together and attached to a twig or branch with spider webs. The nest may be perched high or low, in a tree or a shrub, and will invariably contain two tiny white eggs. The incubation period generally last 15 to 19 days. When the nestlings hatch, the mother regurgitates food to feed them. They fledge at about 22 days. Flowers that have evolved with hummingbirds and depend on the birds for pollination are often trumpet-shaped or tubular and lack a landing platform that would attract other pollinators such as bees or insects. The hummingbird’s bill and tongue are specially adapted (575) 987-2553 Timberon, New Mexico How to Attract Hummingbirds Plant tubular flowers in the hummingbird’s favorite colors, red or orange. Mix plant heights and flowering times, clumping individual plant species together and placing taller plants toward the back. Use native plants whenever possible. Plant flowers near a tree that can offer protection from weather and predators. Do not use pesticides or herbicides. Add a birdbath with a mister or a dripper. While hummingbirds are not social with each other, their natural boldness and curiosity can give the impression that they may be social with humans. They are so swift on the wing that perhaps they can afford to be bold. With some patience—maybe while holding a red tubular flower—you might be lucky enough to experience the invisible whir of wings on your face as this bold little fairy comes in for a closer look. When was the last time you had your chimney cleaned? If you don’t know, now is the time! Riverside Condos PAGE 14 to suck up the nectar from these blooms, which comprises most of their diet. Hummingbirds feed on small insects as well, and can catch them on the wing. When you see “hummers” hovering near the bark of a tree or the wall of a house, they could be hunting tiny insects and spiders or collecting spider webs for a nest. MOUNTAIN TIMES - MAY 2009 ISSUE Call for an inspection: (575) 987-2523 1-575-987-2523 Holloman ‘HUSH HOUSE’ isn’t quiet place HOLLOMAN AIR FORCE BASE, N.M. – Some call it a “hush house,” others a “test cell.” By whatever name people call it, the Jet Engine Test Facility is anything but quiet. Inside the sound absorbing walls of the “hush houses,” the F119PW-100 engine, that powers the F-22A Raptor, is unleashed. Every engine that is produced by the Jet Engine Intermediate Maintenance Shop is tested at all power settings including afterburner prior to installation in the F-22. The facility also has the ability to test and troubleshoot the installed engines, ensuring the engines spend the maximum amount of time in the aircraft. “The priority of the Jet Engine Propulsion Flight is to maintain engine sustainability and reliability, and a great deal of this begins and ends at the test facility,” said Master Sgt. John Madison, 49 Maintenance Squadron propulsion flight chief. With this level of responsibility, the maintainers selected to work at the “hush house” are at the pinnacle of their respective skill level. “The personnel at the test facility have proven over time to be on top of their game. I hand select each person based on previous work performance” said Sergeant Madison. One example of the skilled personnel working in the “hush house” is Senior Airman Carlos Fernandez. “I feel a great deal of accomplishment and reward being entrusted with the responsibilities that come with working at the hush house,” said Airman Fernandez. “Every time I hear a sonic boom it puts a smile on my face.” Quality of work is another revered aspect of the Propulsion Flight, according to Sergeant Madison. The pilots that fly the F-22A can rest assured they are not only being provided the best jet engine in the Air Force inventory, but they are maintained by the best trained and most skilled personnel the 49th Fighter Wing has to offer. A Pratt & Whitney F119-PW-100 turbofan engine undergoes a routine performance test at the Holloman AFB Jet Engine Test Facility 17 March. The test facility is commonly referred to as the "hush House" because it allows engines to be run at full afterburner, as shown here, with minimal noise being allowed outside the facility. (U.S. Air Force Photo/TSgt Chris Flahive) (575) 987-2365 By Tech Sgt. William C. Hancock 49th Aircraft Maintenance Squadron ASPEN CO. Construction George Corder PO Box 143 Timberon, NM 88350 phone 575-987-2372 NM LIC # 30323 (575) 437-4699 1-888-921-4699 PAGE 15 MOUNTAIN TIMES - MAY 2009 ISSUE 1-575-987-2523 THE MOUNTAIN Trading Post Real estate SECTION FOR SALE: MEMBER RUIDOSO AND OTERO BOARD OF REALTORS 7 Premium Golf Course Lots ***OWNER FINANCE NO QUALIFYING*** 7 Premium Golf Course Lots located on Paradise Valley Rd in Timberon. All located on the greens and fairways. In the process of being thinned under the Government Program. $25,900 each. Low Down Payment. Water and electricity nearby. Call for details: (575) 987-2563 For Sale By Owner: GOLF COURSE PREMIER LOT Unique 1 acre (2 adjacent lots) on 8th green on Eldorado Drive, Timberon. Level, thinned, and cleared lots with gorgeous mountain views to the north and south. Beautiful ponderosa and junipers. Driveway is in. Water meter, 110V and 50 amp 220V electricity on lot, ready for your RV, vacation cabin, or retirement house. Owner financing possible with 8K down. $28,000 for both lots. Call: 575 336-7644 or 575 921-5884 (English) 915 443-1922 (Espanol & Deutsch) MOUNTAIN CABIN On 1.03 Acres 3 Bedrooms, 1 3/4 Bath- 2 Levels Recent Updates Call for Info or Showing Good Selection-Including Golf Course SEE ALL OUR CLOUDCROFT AND TIMBERON AREA LISTINGS AT: www.diamondjrealestate.com 2 Bed, 1 Bath, with extra room. New Roof, & New Deck. Awesome view! .5 acre nestled in the beautiful Sacramento Mountains. Owner eager to sell. Asking price of $50,000. Greg Adams, Caryn Pridemore Broker/Realtor Skip Pridemore Broker/Realtor LOTS OF GREAT LOTS FOR SALE STARTING AS LOW AS $2500.00 JACK RABBIT FLATS VOLUNTEER FIRE DEPARTMENT’S ANNUAL COMMUNITY SALE Catch Rain!! Black, algae resistant, from 100 to 10,000 gallons, reasonable prices, free delivery. Please give us a chance to serve you!! MasterCard/Visa 1-800-603-8272 or (575) 682-2308. House Sitting Welding FOR SALE OR TRADE: Large or small animals. Your place or mine Registered Longhorn cattle. Young heifers/ bulls/steers. 575-434-4772 575-434-4772 USE IT OR LOSE IT! Sacramento Mountain Senior Services, Inc. BY DAY, WEEK, OR MONTH Sunday Morning Bible Study at 9:45am Timberon Baptist Chapel MAY 2009 May 3th: “Wars and rumors of wars” Daniel 11 May 10th: Mother’s Day “Mother’s who overcame” Matt 1:5 May 17th: Four people in prophecy (Daniel 12 1-4) May 24th: “The end of age” (Daniel 12 5-13) May 31st: Domineering wives, sissy husbands, and bratty kids Gen. 3 1-19 8-3 288 Pecos Rd in Tularosa Spaces for tables $15.00 donation (tax deductible) is now being held at the Chapel on Wednesdays at 10 AM. TIMBERON baptist CHAPEL (575) 987-2312 or (575) 921-8972 Saturday May 23, 2009 The Ladies Bible Study FOR THE SELECT IN RENTALS Contact Adelina Ayers at Timberon bus to Alamogordo Tuesdays 8:30 a.m. T.W.S.D. Parking Lot For more information Please call: (575) 682-3022 BOBBY and JALENE JONES, Co-Qualifying Brokers Cloudcroft DRINKING WATER Storage Tanks Wanted: 29 Serious People to Work From Home using a computer. Up to$1,500-$5,000 PT/FT www.niceincome123.com PAGE 16 PHONE: 575-682-1317 FAX: 575-682-1318TOLL FREE: 1-866-344-6190 To schedule an appointment call: 661-978-7549. General Help Wanted: 575 434-4772 DIAMOND J REAL ESTATE, PO BOX 1374, CLOUDCROFT, NM 88317 FOOD VENDORS AND MORE! Call Amber Hunt 575 430-2334 “100 FANTASTIC FACTS ABOUT NEW MEXICO”, a history and travel guide book to The Land of Enchantment by THE CLOUDCROFT ONLINE NEWSLETTER’s Don Vanlandingham, is now available. To order your copy, send $20 ($5 of which is for shipping and handling) to: Sunday Morning Worship at 11:00am Don Vanlandingham Box 98564 Lubbock, Texas 79499 HOUSE NUMBERS I just spoke to Brenda Garcia with Otero County and she told me that any property owner in Timberon that is missing or has a damaged house number could contact her and she will get them a new one. Could you emphasize how important these numbers are in case of fire or ems emergency? Her contact information is 575-439-2655. Everyone should have these numbers posted out by the road where emergency personnel can see them. Shantel Keune, Timberon E.M.S. MOUNTAIN TIMES - MAY 2009 ISSUE 1-575-987-2523
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