The Voice of New Mexico’s Rural Electric Cooperatives
SIERRA ELECTRIC COOPERATIVE
August 1, 2024 • Vol. 76, No. 7
USPS 175-880 • ISSN 0046-1946
enchantment (ISSN 0046-1946) is published 10 times a year—every month except June and December—by the New Mexico Rural Electric Cooperatives, 614 Don Gaspar Ave., Santa Fe, NM 87505. enchantment provides reliable, helpful information on rural living and energy use to electric cooperative members and customers.
More than 113,000 families and businesses receive enchantment magazine as electric cooperative members. Nonmember subscriptions are available at $12 a year or $18 for two years, payable to NMREC. Allow four to eight weeks for first delivery.
PERIODICAL POSTAGE paid at Santa Fe, NM 875019998 and additional mailing offices.
CHANGE OF ADDRESS: Postmaster, please send address changes to 614 Don Gaspar Ave., Santa Fe, NM 87505-4428. Readers who receive the publication through their electric cooperative membership should report address changes to their local electric cooperative office.
THE NEW MEXICO RURAL ELECTRIC COOPERATIVES provide legislative and educational services to the cooperatives that are members of the association and deliver electric power to New Mexico’s rural areas and small communities. The mission of the New Mexico Rural Electric Cooperatives is to strengthen, support, unify and represent cooperative member interests at the local, state and national levels. Each cooperative has a representative on the association’s board of directors, which controls the editorial content and advertising policy of enchantment through its Publications Committee.
OFFICERS OF THE BOARD OF DIRECTORS
Tim Morrow, President, Springer Electric Co-op, Springer; Charles G. Wagner, Vice President, Western Farmers Electric Co-op, Anadarko, Oklahoma; Duane Frost, Secretary-Treasurer, Central NM Electric Co-op, Mountainair.
BOARD OF DIRECTORS
Charles Pinson, Central Valley Electric Co-op, Artesia; Chris Martinez, Columbus Electric Co-op, Deming; Keith Gottlieb, Continental Divide Electric Co-op, Grants; Antonio Sanchez, Farmers’ Electric Co-op, Clovis; Manny Bustos, Jemez Mountains Electric, Española; Bobby Ferris, Lea County Electric Co-op, Lovington; James Ortiz, Mora-San Miguel Electric Cooperative, Mora; Thomas G. Rivas, Northern Río Arriba Electric Co-op, Chama; Preston Stone, Otero County Electric Co-op, Cloudcroft; Eric Segovia, Roosevelt County Electric Co-op, Portales; Raymond Ruffini, Sierra Electric Co-op, Elephant Butte; Joseph Herrera, Socorro Electric Co-op, Socorro; Joe Reeser, Southwestern Electric Co-op, Clayton; Wayne Connell, Tri-State G&T Association, Westminster, Colorado.
NEW MEXICO RURAL ELECTRIC COOPERATIVES 614 Don Gaspar Ave. Phone: 505-982-4671 Santa Fe, NM 87505 Fax: 505-982-0153 nmelectric.coop enchantment.coop
DISPLAY ADVERTISING: Rates available upon request. Co-op members and New Mexico display advertisers, email Shaylyn at enchantmentads@ nmelectric.coop or call 505-252-2540. National representative: American MainStreet Publications, 800-626-1181.
Advertisements in enchantment are paid solicitations and are not endorsed by the publisher or the electric cooperatives that are members of the New Mexico Rural Electric Cooperatives. PRODUCT SATISFACTION AND DELIVERY RESPONSIBILITY LIE SOLELY WITH THE ADVERTISER.
Congratulations to Stephanie and Brian Collins, Otero County Electric Cooperative members, who read their enchantment magazine in Bergen, Norway, while visiting Brian’s sister. The Collins’ son-in-law, Tanner Dean, is a lineworker for Otero County Electric.
Stephanie and Brian win $20!
14
Take a photo of yourself or someone else with the magazine and email it with a few words about the photo. Include your name, mailing address and co-op name.
One lucky member will win $20. Submitting your photo(s) gives us permission to publish or post the photo(s) in enchantment, on Facebook and in other media outlets.
Email tcondit@nmelectric.coop
Sierra Electric Cooperative
General Manager
Denise Barrera
Address
610 Highway 195 • P.O. Box 290
Elephant Butte, NM 87935
Telephone
575-744-5231
Outages
888-336-3380
Fax
575-744-5819
Email sierra@secpower.com
Website www.sierraelectric.org
Office Hours
8 a.m. to 5 p.m. (M-F)
Board of Trustees
President
Tami Garrett, Las Palomas, District 3
Vice President
Raymond Ruffini, Elephant Butte, District 2
Secretary
Warren Strong, Elephant Butte, District 2
Treasurer
Darryl Sullivan, Monticello, District 3
Dennis Franklin, Hillsboro, District 1
Judy Smith, Caballo, District 1
Paul Scott, Elephant Butte, District 2
Ray Hodges, Elephant Butte, District 2
April Romero
Chuchillo, District 3
Board Meeting
The board of trustees meets the third Friday of the month at 8:30 a.m. in the cooperative boardroom.
This institution is an equal opportunity provider and employer.
Don't Get Burned By Cheap Chargers
Knockoff chargers can damage your devices and create fire hazards for you and your loved ones
People are always losing their phone chargers.
To replace them, many people buy low-cost, generic plug-in chargers and charging cables. While they can save money, the decision can be dangerous, creating burn and fire hazards.
“Although it is tempting to pick up an inexpensive phone charger to save money, buying and using cheap chargers is one place you might not want to cut corners,” says Erin Hollinshead, executive director of the Energy Education Council/Safe Electricity program. “Using an authentic replacement charger made by your mobile phone’s manufacturer is always a better choice.”
Along with creating a potential burn and fire hazard, using cheaply made charging components and devices can also cause shock and electrocution. Beyond these potential dangers, the cheaper chargers may cost you more in the long run since they can cause damage to your electronic devices.
When using charging gear, Safe Electricity recommends the following:
• Do not leave charging devices unattended.
• Always keep charging items away from flammable objects—especially bedding—and do not take them to bed with you. Tell kids and teens to never place any charging device under their pillow. The heat generated gets trapped, which could cause the pillow or bed to catch fire.
• Do not touch charging electronic devices with wet hands or while standing in water.
• Make sure charging components are certified by a reputable third-party testing laboratory.
• Only buy product-approved chargers and cables (those made or certified by the manufacturer). Using cheaper devices can cause damage to the USB charge chip, which can have a lasting impact on how quickly and effectively your device charges.
• Look out for fakes or imposters claiming to be brand approved. If the price seems too good to be true, it probably is. n
SEC Awards Scholarships
This May, Sierra Electric Education Foundation awarded $37,000 in scholarships to youth in our community. SEC also awarded an additional scholarship provided from Tri-State G&T for $1,000.
Since the Sierra Electric Cooperative Education Foundation was formed in 1990, it has awarded $311,400 in scholarships. This year’s are Jacob Felts, Morgan Littleton, Bryleigh Castillo and Preston Wood.
Congratulations to the returning scholarship recipients who reapplied: Matthew Aguirre, Conner Roberts, Presley Sullivan, Colton Montoya, Mokena Cravenock, Destiny Ragsdale, Alicia Gonzales, Juan Montoya, Alison Wasilowski and Lorraina Rojas
Sierra Electric Cooperative wishes you all the best in your endeavors! n
Tips to Beat the
1
Summer Peak
When we all work together to lower energy use during peak hours, we can lock in lower electricity rates, so everyone saves. Here are a few simple ways to save during peak summer hours. 1 2 3 4 5
Raise the thermostat a few degrees.
Use ceiling fans (in occupied rooms) to feel cooler.
Avoid using major appliances.
Close drapes and blinds to block heat from the sun.
Turn off and unplug nonessential electronics and lights.
2 3 4 5
From left, SEC’s Luz Gonzales, Jacob Felts, Morgan Littleton, Bryleigh Castillo, Preston Wood and SEC’s Kelton Henderson.
THE ENCHANTED CEO
By Charise Swanson New Mexico Rural Electric Cooperatives
The Cooperative Difference
I, along with our cooperative members, get many questions—not only about rates but what makes us different from large utilities, such as Public Service Company of New Mexico. New Mexicos rural electric cooperatives are different from investor-owned urban utilities in several key areas. This comparison emphasizes the main differences in their structures, operational strategies, rate-setting mechanisms, customer interactions and community impact.
Electricity is a fundamental resource that powers our daily lives, yet its delivery and cost vary depending on where you live and who provides your service. Rural electric cooperatives and IOUs represent two models of electricity providers in the United States. Cooperatives face challenges such as serving vast geographic areas with lower population densities. Southwestern Electric Cooperative, based in Clayton, serves 800 members in a service territory covering 4,882 square miles, including the counties of Harding, Quay, Union, New Mexico; Las Animas, Colorado; Cimarron, Oklahoma; Dallam and Hartley, Texas. SWEC maintains 2,105 miles of electric distribution and transmission line, averaging less than one member per mile. Meanwhile, PNM’s 550,000 customers on 15,252 miles of electric distribution and transmission line average about 36 customers per mile.
The number of cooperative members per square mile significantly impacts electric rates. In areas with low member density, the cost of providing and maintaining the electricity infrastructure per member
tends to be higher, as the fixed costs of building and maintaining cooperative power lines, substations and other infrastructure are spread over fewer consumers.
Electric cooperatives generally set rates to cover operating costs, debt service and necessary reserves. Since cooperatives are not-for-profit entities, any revenue generated beyond traditional operating costs is reinvested into the cooperative or returned to members as capital credits. Investor-owned urban utilities set rates to ensure profitability and satisfy shareholders.
Capital credits represent a member’s share of the cooperative’s margins or profits, allocated annually based on their electricity purchases. Instead of immediate dividends, cooperatives allocate these credits to members based on their use. Over time, these credits accumulate and are eventually returned to members—after a cooperative’s financial obligations are met—as a refund or credit on their bills. This system fosters member ownership and participation and ensures the cooperative remains financially stable while providing reliable electricity services.
cooperative have voting rights in the business governance. The boards of directors are elected by their own members to govern the cooperative by establishing cooperative policies and ensuring financial sustainability. This democratic structure ensures decisions are made with the community’s interests in mind.
Cooperatives around the world operate according to the same set of core principles and values, adopted by the International Cooperative Alliance. These principles are a key reason
Cooperatives around the world operate according to the same set of core principles and values, adopted by the International Cooperative Alliance. Th inciples key
IOUs are typically large, publicly traded companies owned by shareholders serving large numbers of customers. They operate in urban areas where population density and economic activity can support their operations and investments. Decision-making is hierarchical, with corporate executives and a board of directors appointed by shareholders.
Cooperatives around the world operate according to the same set of core principles and values, adopted by the International Cooperative Alliance. These principles are a key reason why America's electric cooperatives operate differently from other electric utilities, putting the needs of our members first.
Cooperatives around the world operate according to the same set
Cooperatives
New Mexico’s rural electric cooperatives and IOUs represent two approaches to delivering electricity services. Cooperatives prioritize community engagement, member control and service reliability, while investor-owned utilities focus on efficiency, innovation and profitability. Both models provide reliable and affordable electricity to New Mexico, but their operational strategies and impacts differ significantly.
MEMBERS' ECONOMIC PARTICIPATION
Members
Electric cooperatives are the backbone of rural America, as cooperatives play a crucial role in rural economic development by providing essential services and supporting local economies. They contribute to community resilience and stability by reinvesting revenues locally and promoting energy efficiency programs tailored to rural needs. Cooperatives also foster a sense of civic engagement among members. Cooperatives are structured so members who collectively own the
COOPERATION AMONG COOPERATIVES
By
MEMBERS' ECONOMIC PARTICIPATION
Understanding these differences is essential for policymakers, regulators and consumers as they consider the future of energy infrastructure and service delivery in diverse geographic and economic contexts. Ultimately, your electric cooperative remains steadfast in supporting your rural communities, providing ownership and a voice in how your cooperative is managed, and striving to enhance your electric service at the lowest possible cost. That is the cooperative difference.
COOPERATION AMONG
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Mobility issues affect over 1 in 5 Americans. These individuals, and their loved ones, know how decreased mobility can result in loss of independence, pain and falling hazards. They are often stuck at home, missing out on a variety of activities, in a vicious cycle that diminishes their quality of life. In the past, mobility devices like scooters and power chairs were too heavy and bulky to transport easily. Now, carbon fiber material invented for the aerospace program has been used to create the ultimate mobility device. It’s called the Journey Air Elite … and there’s nothing else like it on earth.
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ENERGY SENSE |
Which Heat Pump Is Right for You?
By Miranda Boutelle
Q: My heating system is 10-plus years old, and I want to switch to a heat pump. Can you help me choose the best option for my home?
A: Heat pumps have been around for decades. In that time, the technology has come a long way. In my opinion, they could use a rebrand.
The name heat pump does not highlight the benefit of air conditioning that comes with the technology. Heat pumps are highly efficient because they don’t use energy to create heat. Instead, they use energy to move heat—into the home in the winter and out of it in the summer.
The most common types of heat pumps are air source and ground source. Airsource heat pumps transfer heat from the outside air, even if it isn’t particularly warm outside. Ground-source, or geothermal heat pumps, transfer heat between your home and the ground. With a lower price tag, air-source heat pumps are more common.
According to the U.S. Department of Energy, air-source heat pumps can reduce heating use by about 65% compared to an electric furnace. They come in a variety of styles and configurations to fit different homes. Air-source heat pump technology has been popular in warmer climates for decades. There are now cold-climate versions available, too.
How Each Type Operates
Ducted air-source heat pumps are ideal for homes with existing ductwork or homes where ductwork can be feasibly added. Replacing an aging central airconditioning system with a heat pump can significantly reduce heating costs.
Ductless heat pumps, or mini-split heat pumps, also draw heat from the outside air. They are a great solution for homes that do not have existing ductwork.
There are many configurations to suit different home layouts. New options on the market allow for coupling with gas
or propane backup heat, which might be a good fit for your home. Ductless heat pumps can be a great option for homes with wood stoves. They can improve home air quality, heat the home without gathering wood and provide air conditioning in warmer months.
Geothermal heat pumps transfer heat from the ground to your home. They are even more efficient than air-source heat pumps, reducing energy use by 70% to 80%, according to the U.S. Department of Energy. They can also heat water for use in the home, which saves on waterheating costs.
From a user experience perspective, heat pumps are a little different because the heat from the register doesn’t feel quite as warm as oil, electric, natural gas or propane heat. That can take a little getting used to, but the efficiency gains and energy savings make the investment worthwhile.
Before buying a heat pump, compare equipment ratings. The higher the rating, the more efficient the equipment.
If it is time to replace your heating system, I recommend making the switch to a heat pump to conserve energy and potentially save on your electric bills.
Understanding the Backup Heat Feature
Most heat pump systems are installed with a backup or auxiliary heat for cold weather. This auxiliary heat can be electric coils, gas, propane or oil, which is usually more expensive to operate. This helps keep your home warm on cold days, but you don’t want to use it if you don’t need it.
For some heat pumps, turning up the thermostat too quickly or too high can trigger the backup heat. Typically, your thermostat displays emergency or auxiliary heat when using this feature.
Speak to an HVAC technician to ensure your thermostat is set to maximize efficiency.
Miranda Boutelle has more than 20 years of experience helping people save energy. She has worked on energyefficiency projects from the Midwest to the West Coast. Today, Miranda is chief operating officer at Efficiency Services Group in Oregon, a cooperatively owned energy-efficiency company.
content was originally created by Efficiency Services Group LLC under contract with NRECA. NRECA retains ownership of this content. NRECA does not endorse Efficiency Services Group, its views herein expressed, nor any products or services it offers.
This
If it is time to replace your heating system, switch to a heat pump to conserve energy and potentially save on your electric bills. PHOTO COURTESY OF BONNEVILLE POWER ADMINISTRATION
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HALE TO THE STARS |
By Alan Hale
Perseids Meteor Shower
Slowly, but surely, planets are returning to our evening skies. Venus continues its gradual ascent into the western sky, although it remains deep in the dusk throughout August. Meanwhile, Saturn rises in the east by the end of twilight, remaining in the eastern sky until it is highest above the horizon during the midmorning hours. From our perspective on Earth, Saturn’s rings are gradually “closing up” and will be presented edge-on to us next year.
Early in the month, Mars and then Jupiter rise about an hour after midnight. They will be relatively close to each other in the constellation Taurus and will draw closer together as the nights progress. On the morning of August 14, the two worlds will have a close conjunction, after which they begin drawing apart with, Jupiter now preceding Mars as the earlier riser.
The annual Perseid meteor shower reaches its peak August 12. The moon, near its first quarter phase, will set around midnight,
leaving the morning hours—usually best for meteor-watching in any event—dark and optimum for viewing. Weather permitting, from dark rural sites, viewers may see up to 60 to 100 meteors per hour.
The Perseids are debris from Comet Swift-Tuttle, which has an approximate orbital period of 130 years; it last returned in 1992 and is expected again in 2126. The relationship between SwiftTuttle and the Perseid meteors was the first such relationship to be proven, demonstrated by the Italian astronomer Giovanni Schiaparelli following the comet’s return in 1862.
The “recurrent nova” T Coronae Borealis, mentioned in this space three months ago, still has not erupted as of the beginning of July. However, the possibility of it doing so within the near future remains strong. In August, the constellation Corona Borealis is conveniently located high up in the northwestern sky during the evening hours.
A composite image of the Perseid meteor shower in 2018 was made from individual images taken over a span of eight nights. PHOTO COURTESY OF PETR HORALEK
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New Mexico Rural Electric Cooperatives power our communities. Cooperatives also empower our future leaders, and our Youth Tour program instills local high school students with the leadership skills and civic knowledge to make a brighter tomorrow.
Local high school students learned civic skills and met with state and national officials as part of Youth Tour
Empowering Tomorow’s
and House of Representatives— including the fact that New Mexico has 42 state senators and 70 state representatives.
In late June, the National Rural Electric Cooperative Youth Tour gave 42 students from around the state the opportunity to rub shoulders with and learn from people who make a difference and to put those newfound skills into practice.
“The chance to visit DC, tour the U.S. Capitol and meet with elected officials can be transformative,” said NMREC CEO Charise Swanson. “There
is no better place to gain an appreciation for all of our democratic institutions than in our nation’s capital. I truly believe this is a life changing event for our students and I know they will return home with innovative ideas for their futures and their communities.”
The weeklong program began with participants gathering in Santa Fe. Students met many of the people working to better New Mexico.
First, the group met with Sen. Elizabeth Stefanics from District 39 representing Bernalillo, Lincoln, San Miguel, Santa Fe, Torrance and Valencia counties. Stefanics took the group on a tour of the Senate chambers and floor, where she explained the differences between the Senate
Next, the group spoke in the rotunda with Rep. John Block from District 51 representing Otero County. Block talked about his work on the Standing and Interim Committee focusing on House Consumer and Public Affairs, and the New Mexico Finance Authority Oversight Committee. He says it is important for youth to get involved with politics and help shape the future of the state.
In the cabinet room, students met with Alex Greenberg, economic development adviser to Gov. Michelle Lujan Grisham. Greenberg spoke about the Economic Development Department Office of Strategy, Science and Technology and its plans to grow the quantum industry in the state.
Students also met with leaders from the state’s judiciary system. They visited the New Mexico Supreme Court, where they met with Chief Clerk of the New Mexico Supreme Court Elizabeth Garcia and State Law Librarian Stephanie Wilson. Garcia and Wilson discussed how the Judicial Branch of New Mexico includes 13 district courts, 54 magistrate courts, 81 municipal courts, Bernalillo County Metropolitan Court, Supreme Court, Court of Appeals, probate courts and additional specialty courts that serve all New Mexicans.
Youth Tour participants witnessed history at a national level when they flew to Washington, D.C., for a week. Youth Tour students visited the offices of the senators and representatives from New Mexico and got to pepper their staff with questions.
Students met Cliff Ho,
Youth Tour participants toured the New Mexico Supreme Court and heard from the court’s chief clerk and librarian.
Tomorow’s Leaders
legislative fellow for Sen. Martin Heinrich, and Todd Ringler, senior policy adviser for energy, climate and the environment for Sen. Ben Ray Luján. Outside the U.S. Capitol building, they spoke with Elizabeth Arevalo, senior adviser for Rep. Teresa Leger Fernandez. Each staffer took the time to answer questions thoroughly.
New Mexico’s Youth Tour students got to provide leadership of their own. They selected one member of the group to the national Youth Leadership Council. This requires representing New Mexico at the 2025 NRECA meetings in Atlanta and Washington, D.C.
The group chose Haylie Bidegain. Bidegain and her family live in Tucumcari and are members of Farmers’ Electric Cooperative. Zephaniah Guerro was selected as the YLC alternate. Zephaniah and his family live in Magdalena and are members of Socorro Electric Cooperative.
Bidegain’s first duty came during the Youth Day Program, when the more than 2,000 Youth Tour participants from co-ops around the country gathered for an evening program. She and the rest of the leadership council were introduced on stage, and the New Mexico cohort proudly cheered her on.
ABOVE: On Capitol Hill in Washington, D.C., students met with Todd Ringler, a policy adviser for Sen. Ben Ray Luján.
RIGHT: New Mexico Sen. Elizabeth Stefanics led the group through the state senate chambers and floor.
Youth Tour
High schoolers
from around
New Mexico spend a week immersed in history and leadership lessons in the United States’ capital
By Lonnie Tucker
Youth Tour Delegates
Central New Mexico
Electric Cooperative
Janet Ortiz, Humberto Fernandez, Nora Encinias, Emma Mulnix, Colton Adams, Calvin Autrey, George Lightfoot, Pablo Regalado, Anthony Munoz
Rylie Parson, Dominic Romero, Daniel Chacon, Orlando Ruiz
Roosevelt County Electric Cooperative
Kyleigh Stephenson, Devin Diaz, Roderic Neal, Ashton Davis
Sierra Electric Cooperative
Katherine Kittel
Socorro Electric Cooperative
Zephaniah Guerro, Brianna Lopez, Gabriel Giron, Blazen McPhaul
Springer Electric Cooperative
Constantza Covarrubias, Tayla Chisum
MONDAY, JUNE 17
Youth Tour. The 2024 Youth Tour trip to Washington, D.C., starts today in Santa Fe. Forty-two Youth Tour delegates from 13 New Mexico electric cooperatives come together at the New Mexico Rural Electric Cooperatives headquarters. NMREC Youth Tour coordinator Lonnie Tucker introduces the delegates to Youth Tour chaperones Talia Storch, Renee Davis, Elizabeth Belcher and Curtis Belcher.
NMREC CEO Charise Swanson welcomes the delegates and challenges each of us to learn as much as possible about the history of the United States and to bring valuable leadership skills back to our high schools and rural communities in New Mexico.
New Mexico State Capitol and Supreme Court. We meet with Sen. Elizabeth Stefanics and Rep. John Block, as well as the court’s chief clerk and the state’s law librarian.
TUESDAY,
Tour in D.C.
JUNE 18
Airport to Airport. We’ve touched down in the capital and are excited to see monuments and meet new people.
United States Marine Corps War Memorial. We visit United States Marine Corps War Memorial, also known as the Iwo Jima Memorial, for the Sunset Parade. There, we meet hundreds of Youth Tour delegates from Alabama, Florida, Illinois, Kentucky, Missouri, Tennessee and Virginia. Trading state pins with other delegates is a blast.
Jefferson Memorial. The Jefferson Memorial illustrates how you can’t realize how big the memorials and monuments are until you stand next to one.
Franklin D. Roosevelt Memorial. Located on the famous Cherry Tree Walk that borders the famous Tidal Basin, part of the memorial’s art is of electric lineworkers. FDR signed the Rural Electrification Act of 1936, helping start electrical distribution cooperatives to serve isolated rural areas.
Martin Luther King Jr. National Memorial. The memorial features a roughly 30-foot-tall granite relief of Dr. King. They call this statue the “Stone of Hope” from Dr. King’s “I Have a Dream” speech.
The National Archives. The National Archives contains the original copies of the three main foundational documents of the United States of America: The Declaration of Independence, the Constitution and the Bill of Rights. As we visit on Juneteenth, it is a special day—the Emancipation Proclamation is proudly on display in the rotunda.
George Washington’s Mount Vernon Estate and Plantation. We tour George Washington’s 22-room mansion and see the rooms where he slept, ate and worked.
We explore the 8,000-acre plantation with fellow Youth Tour delegates from Georgia, Indiana, Minnesota and Ohio.
NRECA Youth Day Program. This is the first official gathering of Youth Tour delegates from 46 states, with more than 2,000 people attending. The convention hall is electric. Youth are cheering and jumping up and down, trying to outdo attendees from the states represented around their assigned seating area.
WEDNESDAY, JUNE 19
World War II Memorial. The Freedom Wall is adorned with 4,048 gold stars, each symbolizing 100 American service personnel who died during the war. We find the New Mexico pillar to remember our fallen New Mexicans.
New Mexico Honor Flight. We meet several Honor Flight servicemen and women from New Mexico. Individuals include Korean War veteran Manuel Florez and Vietnam veterans Poncho Alire, Gary Cowan, Ernest Encinias, Jim Joyce and Curtis Smith, who explain what serving in the armed forces meant to them.
Vietnam War Veterans Memorial. While other memorials rise up into the sky, the Vietnam War Veterans Memorial features two black granite walls sunk into the ground. Two walls stretch more than 250 feet each and contain the names of more than 58,000 men and women who died for our country.
Arlington National Cemetery. Our NMREC Youth Tour delegates have been selected to participate in a formal wreath laying ceremony at Arlington National Cemetery. Angelica Barbaro, Haylie Bidegain, Kohan Evans and Zephaniah Guerro perform the dedication at the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier.
The Washington Monument. The monument was built to commemorate the commanderin-chief of the Continental Army and the first president of the United States, George Washington. The highlight is going to the monument’s top for the best view of our nation’s capital.
THURSDAY, JUNE 20
FRIDAY, JUNE 21
Capitol Hill and the U.S. Capitol Building. We meet with staffers for New Mexico’s congress members to learn about leadership and the work our representatives do before we tour the Capitol building.
Ford’s Theatre. The theater famous for being the location of President Abraham Lincoln’s assassination has many educational displays, including the pistol John Wilkes Booth used and Lincoln’s clothing from the night of his assassination.
Potomac River Cruise. We join Youth Tour delegates from Colorado, Michigan, Washington, Wisconsin and Wyoming for a three-hour Potomac River cruise. The boat has three levels: The lower two offer dancing, and the upper level provides the perfect spot to hang out, make new friends and watch the Washington, D.C., skyline go by.
Korean War Veterans Memorial. This memorial features polished black granite walls with more than 2,500 images of soldiers etched into the stone. There are 19 statues of soldiers, each larger than life, patrolling the memorial grounds.
Lincoln Memorial. It is an unbelievable experience to watch the sun rise over the 19-foot-tall marble statue of Abraham Lincoln.
The White House. We walk down Pennsylvania Avenue to the most famous house in the world. Everyone is busy taking pictures, meeting students from other states and trading Youth Tour pins with other delegates.
Smithsonian Institution. We have three hours to visit any of the 19 Smithsonian Museums in the capital. I choose the Smithsonian National Museum of Natural History to see the Hope Diamond, and the National Museum of American History to stand before the StarSpangled Banner that inspired our national anthem.
United States Holocaust Memorial Museum. One of the museum’s most powerful aspects is its ability to convey the scale and horror of the Holocaust while maintaining a focus on individual stories. Walking through the exhibits, such as the Tower of Faces—which displays thousands of photographs of Jewish life before the Holocaust—and the replica of a concentration camp barracks, provides me with connections to a past I have only known in books or on film.
National Harbor. We join Youth Tour delegates from several states and spend our last night exploring the National Harbor. Many of us walk through the stores looking for that one perfect souvenir to help us remember our time in the nation’s capital. We walk along the boardwalk, taking in our final views of the Potomac River.
SATURDAY, JUNE 22
SUNDAY, JUNE 23
Flying Home. We are grateful to our local electric cooperatives for giving us this incredible opportunity to learn about democracy, leadership and history. We now know and truly understand what a cooperative is all about. We hope to one day become cooperative members and share in this amazing business model.
MARK’S MILES: AN EPIC EV JOURNEY
Show Me The Money
Follow along as Mark Faulkenberry shares his firsthand experience with an all-electric truck—this month, he tallies his savings
We’re halfway through the year, a good time to take a deep dive into the economic savings I achieved driving Bolt—my electric Ford F-150 Lightning. Year to date, I’ve logged a bit less than 10,000 miles. I track the savings between the cost to drive Bolt against the estimated cost of driving my prior company vehicle—a GMC gas-powered pickup—the same number of miles.
I have saved $873.15 on fuel alone driving Bolt, saving 64% over last year. That figure is skewed by an abnormally low savings month (26%) that pulled the six-month average down significantly. Typically, I see between 70% to 75% savings per month. Add a couple of oil changes and the savings are close to $1,000.
Electricity: Where it was Purchased and What it Cost
Use this QR code to find additional info from Mark Faulkenberry, including his fueling data and entries from previous months.
Mark Faulkenberry is vice president of marketing for Western Farmers Electric Cooperative, a generation and transmission utility. Any views, thoughts and opinions expressed in Mark’s Miles are solely those of the author and do not reflect the views, opinions, policies or position of Western Famers Electric Cooperative, its member cooperatives or their consumers.
significantly cheaper to purchase energy at home or work than at public chargers.
The above chart shows how often I was charging at home, work or on the road, and how much it cost me to purchase each kilowatt hour of electricity. Fuel savings go hand in hand with the percentage of energy purchased at various locations. It has been
It is worth noting the fueling charge— or $/kWh—average shown for public charging is skewed by the “free energy” received from various public charging entities over the first six months. A more realistic number is $0.56/kWh.
As usual, the devil is in the details. Use the QR code above to look at the data and get a better feel of how the comparisons were structured.
ADOBE
Climb aboard the historic Cumbres & Toltec Scenic Railroad which operates in the scenic landscapes of southern Colorado and northern New Mexico. Journey back in time experiencing the Old West as it was in 1880, as you venture over the highest mountain pass reached by rail, cross gorges and trestles, blast through tunnels, and chug across alpine meadows and high deserts. Depart from Antonito, Colorado or Chama, New Mexico for a ride of a lifetime!
Hutchison
Filling Meals for on the Go
It’s almost time to think about what to pack for school lunches as well as fall ranch work and other on-the-go activities. Sandwiches are convenient and a filling and satisfying meal. Webster simply defines sandwich as two or more slices of bread or a split roll with a filing in between. But why stop there?
Pita bread is available in most grocery stores, and stuffing them with all sorts of goodness is simple. Ground beef gyros offer a taste of Greek cuisine and are easy to prepare and assemble.
For days when a bit of creativity is needed, stick with
Sue Hutchison was born and raised a block from the freeway in Southern California. She had an early start with industrial, largescale cooking before age 20. She's always been both a beach bum and at home in the kitchen, where she enjoys making new creations.
hummus. Hummus is a great source of protein, and its spreadable texture allows a plethora of applications. Roll up tortillas and snack on a few pinwheels for a nourishing and pleasant meal. They also easily change up school lunches.
Finally, celebrate National Ice Cream Sandwich Day on August 2 with mud and mint ice cream sandwich bars. While typical ice-cream-between-two-cookies is delicious, why not elevate dessert with two ice cream flavors, a dash of chocolate syrup and a different crust? The recipe takes times but is not difficult, and you’ll be asked for seconds.
Ground Beef Gyros
½ yellow onion, finely diced
2 tablespoons olive oil
1½ pounds ground beef
½ teaspoon black pepper
½ teaspoon salt
1 teaspoon dried oregano flakes
½ teaspoon dried basil flakes
¼ teaspoon garlic powder
½ teaspoon fennel seed
¼ teaspoon dill weed
1½ cups plain Greek yogurt
¼ cup crumbled feta cheese
4 pita bread rounds
Diced tomatoes
Shredded iceberg lettuce
Swirl oil into skillet and heat for 1 minute on medium heat, then add onion. Fry onion on medium heat until soft, then add ground beef. Brown beef and drain fat.
Add pepper, salt, oregano, basil, fennel, dill and garlic powder. Stir, and cook for 2 minutes. Set aside.
In a small bowl, combine yogurt and feta cheese until well mixed.
To assemble, warm pita bread in the oven or microwave, slice in half, open halves and spread yogurt mixture inside pitas. Add ground beef mixture, tomatoes and lettuce. Serves 8 (1/2-filled pita each).
Hummus, Cucumber and Sun-Dried Tomato Pinwheels
8 medium-sized tortillas
2 cups (or more, depending on desired amount) prepared hummus of choice
Black pepper to taste
½ cucumber, peeled and thinly sliced
1 cup sun-dried tomatoes, drained and rinsed
Spread half of each tortilla with approximately three rounded tablespoons of hummus. Lightly sprinkle with pepper. Add a single layer of prepared cucumbers and a single layer of tomatoes.
Tightly roll tortilla shut beginning with spread side. Place in zip-close bag and refrigerate for an hour.
Slice tortilla rolls into one-inch segments. Serves 6-8.
the 8 cups sweetened flake cereal of choice
Mud and Mint Ice Cream Sandwich Bars
chip ice cream
5 tablespoons butter, melted
1 48-ounce carton mint
1 cup prepared chocolate syrup
1 48-ounce carton coffee ice cream
In a food processor, crush cereal until crumbs form. Add melted butter until cereal binds together. Spread half of the mixture into the bottom of an 8-by-8 inch metal baking pan and press down with the palm of your hand. Place in freezer for 1 hour.
Scoop mint chip ice cream into a microwaveable bowl. Microwave in 15-second intervals only until ice cream is spreadable, stirring between each interval.
Remove crust pan from freezer and gently spread mint chip ice cream until ice cream meets each edge. When spreading ice cream, touch only the ice cream and not cereal layer.
Drizzle chocolate syrup on top of mint chip ice cream layer until covered. Place pan level in freezer to harden, approximately 2 hours.
Scoop coffee ice cream into a microwaveable bowl, microwave in 15-second intervals, then spread coffee ice cream on top of the hardened chocolate layer. Sprinkle remaining cereal mixture on top, gently patting down with the palm of your hand.
Place in freezer overnight.
To serve, remove from freezer and allow to stand a few minutes. Warm a paring knife blade under warm water. Gently cut ice cream sandwich bars into desired size of servings. Use a spatula to remove and serve portions immediately.
THE MARKET PLACE
Animals
SADDLES AND TACK. Everything for the horse. Western & English tack bought and sold. Rancho Elisa Stables LLC, 500 Route 66 East, Moriarty, NM 87035. Call 505-832-5113 or email ranchoelisastablesfr@swcp.com
LET US MARKET YOUR LIVESTOCK. Live auction every Wednesday at 11 am. View online at dvauction.com, country bid or live auction. If you’ve got’em, we’ll sell’em. Call 575-374-2505. fivestateslivestockauction@gmail.com
FOR SALE: 3x3 bales of alfalfa & beardless wheat. 4x4 ton bales of beardless wheat and alfalfa also sweet feed grazer. 347 John Deere wire baler $5,500.00. Call 575-365-5968/ 575-365-2264.
ask about our c.r.p. rate serving Clovis Curry county and surrounding area call or text 575-791-5050.
Equipment
IRRIGATION PIPE FOR SALE! 6”, 8” & 10” PVC and Aluminum used pipe available. T’s, Elbows, plugs, hydrants, valves, etc. Half the price of new! It’s time to make irrigation more productive and efficient. Delivery available. Call Sierra 575-770-8441.
GREAT OFFER ON SOLAR SUBMERSIBLE SHALLOW/DEEP WELL PUMPS! NRCS approved with two-year warranty on selected pumps with affordable, easy installation! For a custom quote, call 505-429-3093 or email us at solarwellpumpsonline@gmail.com, 24/7 service. Order online at our website: www.solarwellpumpsonline.com
Great Finds
BUYING OLD STUFF: Gas pumps and parts 1960’s or earlier, advertising signs, neon clocks, old car parts in original boxes, motor oil cans, license plate collections, Route 66 items, old metal road signs, odd and weird stuff. Fair prices paid. Have pickup, will travel. Gas Guy in Embudo, 505-852-2995.
CATRON COUNTY Surplus Auction-Sat. Sept. 14, 2024 - 9:00 am - Catron Conty Fairgrounds-reserve New Mexico--large assortment of fire trucks, trucks, pickups, cars, trailers, snow cats, 5-ton army trucks, water tanks, clothes, fire hoses, and many more items to mention, -- contact person, county manger -- 505-382-9697 or Willard Hall auctions-575-519-2064.
Real Estate
CLOVIS-809 S Prince, Vacant land south of Prince/Brady intersection, Just under 5 acres. Commercial potential. $135,000. Big Mesa Realty, 575-456-2000, Paul Stout, Broker 17843, 575-760-5461. www.bigmesarealty.com.
TEXICO-NORTH- 2436 SR 108, PRICE REDUCED, 2bd/2ba home, 3 car detached garage, well, 7 acres, Updated paint, carpet and flooring. $189,500. Big Mesa Realty, 575-4562000, Paul Stout, Broker 17843, 575-760-5461. www.bigmesarealty.com.
TUCUMCARI-1120 S Saratoga, (Also next to US 54/Mountain Road) $20,000. City water close by. Big Mesa Realty, 575-456-2000, Paul Stout, Broker 17843, 575-760-5461. www.bigmesarealty.com.
CANADIAN RIVER-West Ute Lake- Six 40 acre +/- parcels. Lake and Mesalands view. Call for showing and pricing. Big Mesa Realty, 575456-2000, Paul Stout, Broker 17843, 575-7605461. www.bigmesarealty.com.
CONCHAS-626 Hidden Place, Big Mesa Addition. Three adjoining lots with septic, electric and community water. $50,000. Big Mesa Realty, 575-456-2000, Paul Stout, Broker 17843, 575-760-5461. www.bigmesarealty.com.
SANTA ROSA- 1070 Bar Y Road, Hollywood Ranch Subdivision. Three parcels totaling 41 acres. Water, electricity, fencing. $100,000. Big Mesa Realty, 575-456-2000, Paul Stout, Broker 17843, 575-760-5461. www.bigmesarealty.com.
MAGDALENA-0000 TBD State Road 169, 1.28 acres. Great mountain views 15 miles from Magdalena. $11,000. Big Mesa Realty, 575-4562000, Paul Stout, Broker 17843, 575-760-5461. www.bigmesarealty.com.
DATIL- 85 Northern Trail, Sugarloaf Mountain Subdivision, Two lots totaling just over 13 acres. Small cabin. $45,000. Big Mesa Realty, 575-456-2000, Paul Stout, Broker 17843, 575760-5461. www.bigmesarealty.com.
DATIL/PIE TOWN- Various 40 +/- acre tracts north of Sawtooth Mountains and national forest in former Criswell Ranch area. Call for pricing. Big Mesa Realty, 575-456-2000, Paul Stout, Broker 17843, 575-760-5461. www.bigmesarealty.com.
Candace Muncy Financial Advisor
1200 New York Avenue Alamogordo, NM 88310 575-434-5850
To Place a Classified Ad
1. Visit www.enchantment.coop/classifieds and complete form. You will be contacted by email with price and deadline to submit check or money order.
2. Ads will not be accepted over the phone.
3. Or, complete form and select category.
4. Write ad on another sheet of paper.
5. Price:
One column inch ads are $100 (roughly 32 words or 211 characters)
Two column inch ads are $200 (roughly 50 words or 364 characters)
To Send and Pay Your Classified Ad
1. Mail ad and payment (Payable to NMRECA)
NMRECA • enchantment
614 Don Gaspar Ave. Santa Fe, NM 87505
Deadline
1. Due the 7th, one month prior. Ex: Ads due August 7 for the September issue.
Good to Know
1. Only members of New Mexico electric cooperatives may place ads.
2. We reserve the right to reject any ad.
4. Advertisements in enchantment are paid solicitations and are not endorsed by the publisher or the electric cooperatives of New Mexico.
5. PRODUCT SATISFACTION AND DELIVERY RESPONSIBILITY LIE SOLELY WITH THE ADVERTISER.
6. Enchantment prints monthly, except for June and December. Questions? Call: 505-982-4671.
EASTERN NEW MEXICO- Let us sell your large acreage working farm or ranch. Broker is farm owner/operator and lifetime New Mexico resident. Big Mesa Realty, 575-456-2000, Paul Stout, Broker 17843, 575-760-5461. www.bigmesarealty.com.
10 ACRE LOTS. Water & Electricity. $55,000 each. $3,500 down. 3 miles from Villanueva. Call Doug at 505-690-0308.
Phone: Cooperative: Select Category Below
Animals Great Finds Business Real Estate Equipment Vehicles
3.5” x 2”
Member SIPC
AROUND NEW MEXICO
New Mexico, The Land of Enchantment, is filled with stunning desert landscapes, breathtaking mountain ranges and a diverse range of 18 national and 35 state parks, not to mention historic cities such as Santa Fe, Albuquerque, Las Cruces and Taos. New Mexico is a fusion of culture with Native American, Mexican and Spanish heritage. It is a truly unique state offering something for everyone. Here are a few local events you might want to add to your calendar:
August 1-31, Albuquerque
Mission Aerospace: New Exhibit Lands at the National Museum of Nuclear Science & History
The National Museum of Nuclear Science & History has a new temporary exhibit, Mission Aerospace. This interactive exhibit is a multilayered exploration of aviation history, aerospace milestones and some of NASA’s trailblazing discoveries shaping our world daily. Visitors learn about aerodynamics, make paper airplanes and rockets, and test them for distance and air-dexterity in special “launch zones,” flying them to Beijing and Paris or as far away as Saturn and Mars.
Bring a lawn chair, blankets, friends and your dancing shoes! Cool Summer Nights Concert Series is back for 2024 and offers free live music from 5–7 p.m. every Friday night in Angel Fire’s Frontier Park through September 13. www.angelfireresort.com
Aug 2-11, Church Rock
102nd Gallup Inter-Tribal Indian Ceremonial
Every August, Gallup plays host to Native Americans from across the United States in a massive intertribal ceremonial. The indoor and outdoor marketplace and the ceremonial showroom present the country’s most complete and varied displays of genuine Native American fine arts, including Navajo rugs, katsinas, jewelry, pottery, and basketry. There are socials, rodeos and parades. Most events take place at Red Rock Park, just east of Gallup, with some events in downtown Gallup. gallupceremonial.com/home
August 3, Mountainair
Quarai Under the Stars
Join National Park Service Rangers at Quarai, Salinas Pueblo Missions National Monument, for a spectacular dark sky program. To kick off the evening from 7:30 to 8:15 p.m., enjoy a guided pueblo and mission program. Learn about the blending of cultures and the way it shaped central New Mexico for generations. Then enjoy pristine dark sky viewing through telescopes, check out the dark sky photography station, and experience the awe and wonder of a pristine night sky. Make sure to wear comfortable shoes and bring water and your spirit of discovery! www.nps.gov/sapu/index.htm
August 7, Chama
Outlaw Express: Prime Time
Join Cumbres & Toltec Scenic Railroad for a special evening train ride on August 7. Leaving from Outlaw BBQ Co. restaurant in Chama at 3 p.m., we’ll take you up to Cumbres Pass, the highest operational railroad pass in America, and return to Chama to enjoy a barbecue dinner, brought to you by Outlaw BBQ around 6 p.m. Included in your ticket is a dinner of sliced brisket, pulled pork, smoked turkey, homemade pinto beans, mustard potato salad and creamy coleslaw. Enjoy brews from SKA Brewing Co. cumbrestoltec.com/events/outlaw-express-dinnertrain-charter/
August 10, Truth or Consequences
Second Saturday Art Hop in Truth or Consequences
Since July 2005, when the Truth or Consequences Art Hop began, many downtown shops, galleries and studios have opened their doors to the public from 6-9 p.m. each month. If you enjoy a bit of nightlife and are coming to Sierra County for the weekend, time your trip to coincide with the monthly Truth or Consequences Second Saturday Art Hop and take in art (guaranteed), music (highly probable), performance (not unheard of), food (absolutely), and other entertainment on the streets of T or C and in its downtown businesses.
The music festival (formerly known as Hot Chili Days) is in its 27th year and will continue as Red River’s 8750’ BBQ & Music Festival and the sponsorship of Texas Reds and the Motherlode Saloon. Spend a few days in the mountains of Red River listening to great music in the midst of a unique festival experience. Three-day passes are limited, so once tickets go on sale, be sure to act fast!
www.8750festival.com
August 24, Mountainair
Mountainair Sunflower Festival 2024
Come to the Sunflower Festival hosted by the Manzano Mountain Art Council. The event features more than 50 art vendors, food, live music, children’s games, youth art activities, sunflower costume and hat contest, wine and beer garden. Mountainair is known as the Gateway to Ancient Cities due to its proximity to the ruins. Visit our interesting shops and restaurants and take a walking tour of our community murals.
manzanomountainartcouncil.org/sunflower-festival
Include Your Upcoming Event
Send your event details to eventcalendar@nmelectric.coop. Include the event title, date, town and a summary of the event. Include the event website address so readers can get additional event information. Submit the event notification at least 60 days before the event to meet our press deadline. Space is limited, and events are run at the discretion of the editor.
Help Us Find These Members
In 2020 and 2021, Sierra Electric retired the patronage capital for the 2000 and 2001 operating years. Listed below are the names of the members who have outstanding capital credit checks for this retirement.
If you are on the list or are a family member, spouse, heir, personal representative, or executor of any of the members listed, please call Sierra Electric Cooperative, Inc. at 575-744-5231.
You may also send an e-mail to sierra@secpower.com. We encourage you to claim these checks as any checks left unclaimed after October 1, 2024 will be transferred to the Sierra Electric Cooperative Education Foundation scholarship fund.
A T & T CO
ABBEY BEVERLY A
ABLE WESLEY
ACKERMANN ERNEST
ACRE STEPHEN B
ACTIONGAS INC
ADAMS DON
ADOLPHSEN CORAL
AGUAYO ERNEST
ALFONSO JOSE R
ALLEN BRUCE
ALLEN GREG
ALLTEL CORPORATE
ACCT. PAYABLE
ALMARAZ JOHN
ALONZO JOHN J
ALONZO PETE
ALTHOUSE ROBERT
ALVAREZ JOE G
AMERICAN TOWER CORP
ANCHONDO GREGORIO
ANDERSON MARY L
ANDERSON MORRIS F
ANTHONY JOSH
APODACA BOBBY
APODACA JESUS M
ARMIJO EUTIMIO
ARMIJO LEVI
ARMIJO TONI
ARNOLD GERALD T
ARNOLD MARIE
ARTHUR VERNON
ARTUS CECIL S
ASHBY DENISE
ASHCRAFT CHARLES
ATKINSON JOHN H
BACA J A
BACA MOSES
BAGWELL SCOTT
BAILEY BUREL
BAKER BILL
BAKER KAREN
BALDWIN BILL
BALDWIN GEORGE ASR
BALDWIN PETE
BALLOG JEFF
BANK OF AMERICA
BANKSON ROY
BARNES BARBARA
BARNES CHARLES E
BARNES CHARLIE
BARNES J Q
BARNHART CHARLES
BARRAZAS SYLVIA
BARRETT DONNA
BARTLETT GORDON
BASHAM PAT
BASON STACY
BASON-COX INC.
BATEMAN PETER
BAUER KENNETH E
BAY LEONARD
BEACHY DOROTHY
BEAN JOHN SSR
BEATTIE KATHIE
BEATY MARY L
BEAUCHAMP DONALD
BEAULIEU LOUIS
BECK GEORGE W
BECKER & HOGUE
BECKER BILL
BECKER DR L
BECKER NANCY
BEERS ROBERT
BEHL JOE
BELL ATLANTIC MOBILE
BELL BOB
BELL JAMES
BELL MARSHA
BELL ROSS
BELLHOUSE ROBERT
BELLING THEODORE JR
BENHAM JENNIFER
BENNETT JAN
BENSON H O
BERNAL ELIZABETH
BERO PEARL
BERRY KEN
BERRY MARK
BETHEL SELWYN
BETZ KING
BICKLE RICHARD
BIEL MOLLY
BIERNER CHUCK
BIRD ROMIE
BISHOP DAVID
BISHOP RANDY L
BLAIR BOB
BLEA MANUEL
BLECK RICHARD
BLOOD CHRISTINE
BLUNT TERRY
BLUS MIKE
BOLDMAN ROSEMARY P
BOLNICK IRA
BOOND EDGAR
BOONE DARRELL
BOONE FORREST
BOOZER ELMER W
BOSTICK TEDDY
BOURDET EMILE
BOURDET EMILE
BOWDICH LEE
BOWEN JAMES A
BOYCE MILLEDGE
BOYER LUCY P
BRADLEY CECIL
BRADY STEVE
BRANAUGH JOHN
BRANDT DANIEL
BRANDT DENNIS
BRASHER LA VONNE L
BRATH ROBERT
BRELSFORD JOHN
BREWER ANGEL
BRINKLEY PATRICIA
BRINKMAN ED
BRITO SEAN
BRITTON CHETT
BROOKS MARY L
BROTHERS JOHN L
BROWN BAXTER
BROWN DOUG
BROWN KAYLYNN
BROWN RICHARD
BROWN SCOTT
BROWNWOOD NORMAN
BROYLES GERALD
BRUNACINI JIM JR
BRYANT CHARLES
BRYANT LANNIE
BRYANT STERLING
BUDDY’S BOAT & RV TO
BUKAMIER JEFFREY O
BULLARD SHAWNA
BULLINGTON DANNY
BULLINGTON LEONARD
BURGESS ROBERT
BURGESS WILLIAM R
BURGESS WILSON T
BURT CORKY
BURTON ARRON
BYRD BOB H
CAIN T D
CAMACHO FRANK
CAMPBELL ALVIN J
CAMPBELL BETTY
CAMPBELL-MOFFAT
CARLA
CANDELARIA HENRY D
CANIDA SHEREE L
CANTRELL HARRIS
CANTRELL JOHN G
CAPANSKY NORVILLE
CARD CAROLYN
CARD LAWSON
CARLETON R E
CARR DONALD
CARRASCO PEDRO
CARRAWAY HUBERT M
CARROLL ANN L
CARSON PETER
CARTER CHARLES A
CARTER GARY
CARTER TIMOTHY
CAST CECIL
CASTILLO CONNIE L
CASTLE JOHN
CASTLEMAN VERNA M
CATON RON
CHANCE ALVIN
CHANDLER M D
CHASTAIN HARRITT
CHAVEZ HERBERT E
CHAVEZ ISAAC N
CHAVEZ JANETTE
CHAVEZ MIKE
CHAVEZ NANCY
CHERPAK RONALD
CHERPAK RONALD
CHERRY E K
CHEURLIN PATRICE
CHEVRON PIPELINE CO
CHITTY DEMPSIE
CHOWNING BILL
CITO MARY N
CLANTON GEORGE
CLARK CHESTER W
CLARK KELLY
CLARK RICHEY
CLAYTON MARGARET
CLEAVER JAIMIE
CLEMENT LARA A
CLEVELAND BETTINA
CLEVENGER B E
CLYNE H T
COKER RICHARD
COLE JOHN
COLE ROBERT E
COLETTI CARL
COLLINS CHRISTAL
COLVARD LA N
COLVILLE WILLIAM
CONDE FRANK
CONNER P H
CONNOR C R
COOKSEY ROLAND H
COOMBES RONNIE
COOPER CAROLYNN F
COOPER JAMES
CORBIN HAL
COTTON GLEN E
COX CANDY
COX HUBERT
COX JIM
COX RAYMOND P
COY LINDA J
CRAIG JAMES C
CRELEY MARTHA S
CRIPE H W
CRISWELL W B
CROSS DARRELL
CROTEAU MARY L
CROWL JERRY
CSG WIRELESS INC.
CUBILLAS JESUS A
CULPEPPER MONICA
CUMBA RAY
CUMIFORD TANNEN
CUNNINGHAM DAVID
CURRY JOHN C
DALEN WARREN L
DANFORTH DANIEL D
DANSFELSER BETTY
DARLAND VIKKI
DASKALOS JASON
DAUGHERTY DEAN
DAVIS ALLEN
DAVIS DOUGLAS
DAVIS ED
DAVIS ROSE
DAVIS THOMAS W
DAY SANDRA
DDASHBAC ENTERPRISES
DE BACA C ISAIAH
DEAL ROBERT
DEAN DOROTHY
DEE JACK
DEL RIO SANTOS
DELAMERE CHARLIES
DELIO DAVID
DENNIS THOMAS S
DENTON HAROLD
DEVIGIL LEO
DEVINE GLENNA
DIAMOND KAYE
DICKSON GARY
DIENER WILLIAM
DILIBERTO JOE
DILLON TIMOTHY
DIXON GENE F
DOLAN KATHRYN
DOLZADELLI DORIS L
DOSCH ANN
DOVE PEGGY A
DOWNEY LAWRENCE
DOWNS DELORES
DRAKE CHARLES G
DRAKE CHRISTY
DRIGGERS TOM
DUDLEY ROBERT
DUFFY JAMES E
DUFFY STEVEN
DUNAGAN JODY
DUNAGAN MARY E
DUNKIN ALBERT C
DUNLAP STEVE
DUSTIN JOSEPH
DVORAK ED
E B JARVIS REALTY
EARLY STEPHEN L
EB VINTNERS LLC
ECHEAGARAY ARTHUR
ECKENRODE MIKE
EDISON ROBERT M
EDMONDS LESTER
EICHER H J
ELDRIDGE FLORENCE
ELLIS ALICE
ELLIS RICHARD J
ELSEN RICHARD
ENCHANTED VIEW
ENLOW DANNY
ESQUIVEL JOHN
ESTATE OF MARILYNN
WRIGHT
EUNGARD TOM
EUROPA VINTERS
EVANS ART
EVANS HELEN A
FAIX NOLAN MARY A
FAMA RAHM
FANCHER SUSAN L
FEDDERSEN BARBRA
FERGOSU INC
Careers Cooperative
Working for one of New Mexico’s electric cooperatives is an exciting career move. New Mexico Rural Electric Cooperatives is dedicated to making a difference for our state’s 15 electric cooperatives and the people and rural communities we serve. Our electric cooperative members offer competitive salaries and excellent benefits, and we are always on the lookout for talented and resourceful people to join our teams.
Full-Time Dispatcher/MSR
Central New Mexico Electric Cooperative
Central New Mexico Electric Cooperative is hiring a full-time dispatcher/member service representative. We require a flexible work schedule with the availability to work days, nights, weekends and holidays. Candidate must be willing and able to work in both the Moriarty and Mountainair offices as needed. Must live within 35 miles of the Moriarty office for on-call support.
Location: Moriarty/Mountainair, New Mexico Careers website: https://cnmec.org/careers. To apply: Send resumes with a letter of interest to Suzy Edmonds at suzy.edmonds@cnmec.org.
Lineman Foreman (2 Positions)
Central New Mexico Electric Cooperative
CNMEC has an opening for a qualified lineman foreman to join our organization. CNMEC offers competitive wages and an excellent benefits package. CNMEC pays 100% of the premium costs for medical/dental/vision for employee coverage; company paid life insurance and LTD benefits, a generous paid time off program, as well as a 401(k)-retirement plan with company match.
Location: Vaughn, New Mexico and Moriarty/ Mountainair, New Mexico Careers website: https://cnmec.org/careers.
To apply: Send resumes with a letter of interest to Suzy Edmonds at suzy.edmonds@cnmec.org.
Journeyman Lineman
Central New Mexico Electric Cooperative CNMEC has an opening for a qualified journeyman lineman to join our organization. A New Mexico commercial driver’s license (class A) is required. Candidate must live or be willing to relocate within 35 miles of our Moriarty office.
CNMEC offers competitive wages and an excellent benefits package. CNMEC pays 100% of the premium costs for medical/dental/vision for employee coverage; company paid life insurance and LTD benefits, a generous paid time off program, as well as a 401(k)-retirement plan with company match.
Location: Mountainair, New Mexico. Careers website: https://cnmec.org/careers.
To apply: Send resumes with a letter of interest to Suzy Edmonds at suzy.edmonds@cnmec.org.
Groundman
Central Valley Electric Cooperative
To build, maintain and repair overhead and underground power distribution and transmission lines within the scope of his/her training and certification in a safe and efficient manner within accepted operation standards, approved policies and procedures.
Location: Artesia, New Mexico. Careers website: www.cvecoop.org/careers. To apply: Send resumes with a letter of interest to hr@cvecoop.org.
Journeyman Lineman, Cuba and Espanola District Office (2 Positions)
Jemez Mountains Electric Cooperative
Jemez Mountains Electric Cooperative is accepting applications for the position of journeyman lineman for the Cuba district office. The specific purpose of the journeyman lineman is to utilize their skills and knowledge for the construction, operation, and maintenance of a reliable electric system.
Location: Cuba and Espanola, New Mexico. Careers website: www.jemezcoop.org/careers. Applications will be accepted until the position has been filled. Applications should be directed to: Dwight Herrera, P.O. Box 128 Española, New Mexico 87532. Email: dherrera@jemezcoop.org.
1st
Year Lineman Apprentice, Jemez Springs District Office
Jemez Mountains Electric Cooperative
Jemez Mountains Electric Cooperative is accepting application materials for the position of 1st year apprentice lineman for the Jemez Springs district office. The specific purpose of the apprentice lineman is to provide for a planned program of progressive training and experiences that will result in the development of skills and knowledge necessary for the construction, operation and maintenance of a reliable electric system. Initially, the successful candidate will be classified as a groundman 0-12 months and then converted to a 1st year apprentice lineman after successfully gaining experience in the groundman position for six months.
Location: Jemez Springs, New Mexico. Careers Website: www.jemezcoop.org/careers. Applications will be accepted until the position has been filled. Applications should be directed to: Dwight Herrera, P.O. Box 128 Española, New Mexico 87532. Email: dherrera@jemezcoop.org.
Administrative Professional, Espanola District Office
Jemez Mountains Electric Cooperative is accepting applications for the position of administrative professional. The administrative professional will initiate and/or coordinate all clerical and secretarial functions for the Cooperative’s general manager and assistant general manager. A high level of expertise in providing support services allows the general manager to focus his efforts on providing the most effective level of electric utilities service to customers. The administrative professional serves as a professional liaison between the general manager and internal and external organizations. The administrative professional will prepare and maintain the annual activity calendar for the general manager, arrange meetings for the general manager, and serve as the recording secretary for various Board meetings. This administrative professional will be required to maintain the strictest confidentiality when dealing with sensitive information important to the overall operation of JMEC and as directed by the general manager.
Location: Espanola, New Mexico.
Careers website: www.jemezcoop.org/careers. Applications will be accepted until the position has been filled and should be directed to: Tina Trujillo Archuleta, P.O. Box 128 Española, New Mexico 87532
Email: ttrujillo@jemecoop.org.
Electrical Engineer
Lea County Electric Cooperative
As an electrical engineer at Lea County Electric Cooperative, you’ll play a crucial role in optimizing our electrical distribution system’s performance. We’re seeking an analytical thinker with attention to detail and a commitment to community impact.
Location: Lovington, New Mexico.
Careers website: https://lcecnet.applicantpro.com/jobs. Complete our 3-minute, mobile-friendly application if you’re ready to contribute to our success and meet the qualifications. Applications can be submitted online at https://lcecnet.applicantpro.com/jobs.
IT Technician
Lea County Electric Cooperative
Joining LCEC as an IT support specialist means you’ll be at the forefront of maintaining and enhancing our IT infrastructure. Your responsibilities will encompass planning, deploying and optimizing network hardware, software and communication systems, while also implementing effective cybersecurity measures.
Complete our 3-minute, mobile-friendly application if you’re ready to contribute to our success and meet the qualifications. Applications can be submitted online at https://lcecnet.applicantpro.com/jobs/.
Substation Technician Electric Utility
Lea County Electric Cooperative
The substation technician is responsible for supporting the operation, construction, and maintenance of transmission and distribution stations, including special projects and assignments.
Complete our 3-minute, mobile-friendly application if you’re ready to contribute to our success and meet the qualifications. Applications can be submitted online at https://lcecnet.applicantpro.com/jobs.
System Operator
Lea County Electric Cooperative
LCEC in Lovington, NM is looking to hire a fulltime system operator. Responsibilities include monitor and control system loads, voltages, etc., through the operation of control room metering panels, SCADA system and PC software programs. Interpret and evaluate system conditions and take appropriate actions: direct switching, transferring or shedding load. Determine probable cause and location of outages and direct the appropriate personnel in the restoration of power, and more.
Location: Lovington, New Mexico.
Careers website: https://lcecnet.applicantpro.com/jobs. Complete our 3-minute, mobile-friendly application if you’re ready to contribute to our success and meet the qualifications. Applications can be submitted online at https://lcecnet.applicantpro.com/jobs.
Journeyman Lineman
Northern Rio Arriba Electric Cooperative Works under the direction of the director of operations.
Minimum Requirements: High school diploma or GED and certified journeyman lineman.
Hourly Rate: $30.90 base hourly rate.
Location: Chama, New Mexico
Careers website: https://www.noraelectric.org/careers. Application deadline: Opened until filled applications may be picked up at NORA office, via NORA’s website or call Victoria Gonzales for more information at 575-756-2181 or email: vgonzales@noraelectric.org.
Journeyman Lineman or Apprentice Lineman (Several Positions)
Otero County Electric Cooperative Shall be a journeyman in his craft. Performs diversified work of erection, repair and operation of distribution and transmission facilities. Works on energized lines, structures and equipment involved in the distribution of electricity. An apprentice lineman is an employee not hired as a journeyman lineman but assigned by the management of OCEC to become a journeyman lineman and will be required to sign an agreement to pass the OCEC approved four-year apprentice program.
Location: Cloudcroft, Carrizozo and Ruidoso, New Mexico.
Careers website: https://www.ocec-inc.com/careers. Applications will be accepted until the position has been filled and should be directed to: Kelley Sanders, director of human resources, PO Box 227 Cloudcroft, NM 88317 kelleys@ote-coop.com.
Staking Technician
Otero County Electric Cooperative
Draws staking sheets, keeps mapping system and assists with staking. Performs staking duties. This may be a training position for another engineering position. Assists with
investigating, surveying and staking electric lines according to construction specifications and prepares staking sheets. Locate and mark underground electric and fiber lines.
Location: Cloudcroft, New Mexico.
Careers website: https://www.ocec-inc.com/careers. Applications will be accepted until the position has been filled and should be directed to: Kelley Sanders, director of human resources, PO Box 227 Cloudcroft, NM 88317 kelleys@ote-coop.com.
Area Supervisor (Northern Area)
Otero County Electric Cooperative Supervises and manages the operations of the northern part of Otero County Electric Cooperative, Inc. distribution and transmission system. Supervises and schedules OCEC line crews and line contractors working in the northern area. Assists with the development and execution of the four-year work plan, maintenance and construction in the northern area.
Location: Cloudcroft, New Mexico.
Careers website: https://www.ocec-inc.com/careers. Applications will be accepted until the position has been filled and should be directed to: Kelley Sanders, director of human resources, PO Box 227 Cloudcroft, NM 88317 kelleys@ote-coop.com.
Member Service Representativeian
Otero County Electric Cooperative
Serves as the primary contact to consumers of Otero County Electric Cooperative, Inc. to provide accurate and timely data entry in the provision of services, problem resolution, receiving payments, general inquiries, outages and account maintenance.
Location: Alto, New Mexico. Careers website: https://www.ocec-inc.com/careers. Applications will be accepted until the position has been filled and should be directed to: Kelley Sanders, director of human resources, PO Box 227 Cloudcroft, NM 88317 kelleys@ote-coop.com.
Bookkeeper/Accountant
Sierra Electric Cooperative
Under the direction of the finance manager, the bookkeeper/accountant is responsible for keeping a complete and systematic set of records and ledger accounts to record financial transactions and show financial status of the system; processes payroll, accounts payable and prepares reports and financial statements. As needed, provides company-wide and departmental support as directed and any other functions and requirements deemed necessary by the supervisor.
Location: Elephant Butte, New Mexico. Careers website: https://www.sierraelectric.org/job-openings. Submit resume and application to Sierra Electric Cooperative, Inc. P.O. Box 290, Elephant Butte, NM 87935.
Journeyman Lineman
Socorro Electric Cooperative
The journeyman lineman position is established to provide adequate and abundant central station electric service to all member-owners within the SEC service area at the lowest possible cost. This position will provide specific operational responsibilities to be delegated to a competent, well-trained person whose knowledge of and ability in this position will contribute to the attainment of the basic purpose of the Cooperative. This position is one of active training in line work with a focus on line construction and maintenance. The position has a moderate level of line responsibility and moderate authority to make independent decisions over an assigned function. A person in this position regularly takes responsibility for a key operation or function due to their level of skill.
Applications are available by contacting human resource manager at service@socorroelectric.com or calling 575835-0560 ext. 1001.
Apprentice Lineman
Socorro Electric Cooperative
Apprentice lineman is responsible for providing adequate and abundant central station electric service to all members within SEC’s service area and providing for specific operational responsibilities to be delegated to a competent, well-trained person whose knowledge of and ability in this position will contribute to the attainment of the basics of the cooperative. This position is one of active training in line work with a focus online construction and maintenance. A person in this position regularly takes responsibility for a key operation or function due to their level of skill.
Applications are available by contacting human resource manager at service@socorroelectric.com or calling 575835-0560 ext. 1001.
youth art
September Topic: Happy Labor Day! Draw yourself doing a job you’d like to have when you’re older.
October Topic: Happy Halloween! Draw a fuzzy black cat.
Send Your Drawing By mail: Youth Editor 614 Don Gaspar Ave. Santa Fe, NM 87505 By email: tcondit@nmelectric.coop
Deadline: Submit by the ninth, one month prior to publication.
Hooray!
Winners receive a $15 gift card.
Have a Youth Art Topic? Email or mail to the addresses above, or call 505-982-4671.
Happy Friendship Day! Congratulations to the winning artists who transformed into superheroes with their best friends.
5 items to include on the back of your drawing, otherwise YOU ARE DISQUALIFIED:
Age
Mailing Address 4. Phone Number 5. Electric Co-op DON’T FORGET THESE ITEMS!
Artwork accepted up to age 13.
Adaline Martinez • Age 7 Mora-San Miguel Electric Cooperative
Leigha Martinez • Age 9 Springer Electric Cooperative
Vayda Castañeda • Age 7 Jemez Mountains Electric Cooperative
Gabriel Nunez • Age 7 Central New Mexico Electric Cooperative
Malakai Villalobos • Age 10 Roosevelt County Electric Cooperative
Sophia Wallace • Age 8 Lea County Electric Cooperative
Sacred Stone of the Southwest is on the Brink of Extinction
Centuries ago, Persians, Tibetans and Mayans considered turquoise a gemstone of the heavens, believing the striking blue stones were sacred pieces of sky. Today, the rarest and most valuable turquoise is found in the American Southwest–– but the future of the blue beauty is unclear.
On a recent trip to Tucson, we spoke with fourth generation turquoise traders who explained that less than five percent of turquoise mined worldwide can be set into jewelry and only about twenty mines in the Southwest supply gem-quality turquoise. Once a thriving industry, many Southwest mines have run dry and are now closed.
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Jewelry Specifications:
• Arizona turquoise • Silver-finished settings
Sedona Turquoise Collection
A. Pendant (26 cts) $299 * $99 +s&p Save $200
B. 18" Bali Naga woven sterling silver chain $149 +s&p
C. 1 1/2" Earrings (10 ctw) $299 * $99 +s&p Save $200
Set
**Complete set includes pendant, chain and earrings.
You
A.
B.
Necklace enlarged to show luxurious color
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Tri-State is a not-for-profit power supplier to cooperatives and public power districts in Colorado, Nebraska, New Mexico and Wyoming.
