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STORY IDEAS and PHOTOS Please send to editor@tricitytribuneusa.com We’ve got more photos than we can use. Check out the photo gallery for each issue at www.fourcornerssports.com Majestic Media 100 W. Apache Street Farmington, NM 87401 505.516.1230 www.majesticmediausa.com Four Corners Sports magazine is published once a month by Majestic Media. Material herein may not be reprinted without expressed written consent of the publisher. Opinions expressed by the contributing writers are not necessarily those of the publisher, editor or Four Corners Sports magazine. Every effort has been made to ensure the accuracy of this publication. However the publisher cannot assume responsibility for errors or ommissions. © 2014 Four Corners Sports magazine.
|4| Connie Mack Farmington is a baseball town, at least in the early days of August. From the time young players first put on the uniform, Connie Mack has been the dream.
| 10 | Course Work When he was 6 years old, Jason Tomko asked his parents, Jan and Dave Tomko, if they would take him to Disneyland. Jan Tomko, Jason’s mother, shared her memories of that Disneyland vacation and how it came about.
| 12 | Fantasy Football
| 21 | Editorial column While the school year rolls around to a new year and parents celebrate and teachers | 22 | Interested in and kids walk around Target depressed, it being a ref? also means that football season is just The Northwest New Mexico Football Official Association is seeking individuals to become football officials for this season’s middle and high school football games.
around the corner and that it is time to begin researching your new Fantasy Football team or, for you addicts, teams.
| 16 | PV Athletic Director After spending the past 10 years coaching various sports at Piedra Vista High School, Frank Whalen has been named the school’s new director of athletics.
| 18 | Triple Crown World Series
| 24 | 10 Questions with Shilo McCall
| 25 | Fishing Report | 26 | FET Concept
The 9u Farmington Cardinals recently competed in the Triple Crown World Series in Steamboat Springs, Colo. The Cardinals were the only 9-year-old team from New Mexico and competed against 19 teams from Colorado, utah, Missouri, Oklahoma, and California.
Corporate athletes are in the making throughout San Juan County, since the hospital decided four years ago to begin offering Full Engagement Training to the community.
| 29 | Best of everything Jon Mestas was having wonderful success in his first season with the Windy City Thunderbolts of the Independent Frontier league.
| 20 | Racing alive & well For years, Aztec Speedway was the track to which local dirt track racers headed on weekends, to compete with other racers and to enjoy what has become an increasingly popular sport.
| 30 | First Tee covercredit Josh Bishop
AUGUST 2014
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DBATS Gallegos take the win 2014 Connie Mack celebrates 50 years of great baseball Story by Rick Hoerner Photos by Curtis Benally
a t l t e
Farmington is a baseball town, at least in the early days of August. From the time young players first put on the uniform, Connie Mack has been the dream. This year’s host team representative, Farmington Strikezone, was this year’s team that got to live the dream. For the Strikezone, the road to Ricketts did not come easy. An early loss in the city tournament looked to give the Four Corners the upper hand in winning the host team position, but the Strikezone worked their way back and swept both games of championship night to host the Series for the 5th consecutive time.
Danny and Kim Carpenter. Danny was the 2014 CMWS Parade Marshal. Kim is the General Chairman of the CMWS.
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Barry Larkin and Ken Griffey Jr.
The 50th Anniversary series kicked off with the traditional Connie Mack parade through downtown Farmington.
This year Majestic Media headed up the marketing for the world series and brought in a video Jumbotron screen to enhance the game experience.
The opening night games surrounding the opening ceremonies included the induction to the Hall of Fame of two of the most prominent participants in Connie Mack history,
Farmington High School and World Series closer for the Toronto Blue Jays, Duane Ward gave his acceptance speech on the new addition to the Series, the video Jumbotron.
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Ken Griffey Jr.
Tony Muser
Griffey returned to Farmington to receive the honor as part of the 50th anniversary ceremonies that also included parachutists, fireworks and the introduction of the official Connie Mack mascot, “Mack.” Griffey and Larkin joined inductees’ longtime coaches Sam Carpenter of the Dallas Mustangs and Midland Coach Ward Joe Hayden. Tony Muser, who was the first Series player to play Major league baseball, also was inducted, along with Aztec native Larry Harlow, who played for the Angels and orioles in the late 1970s and early ’80s. Larkin Let the games begin In the early rounds defense and pitching was the name of the game, as the majority of the games were close low scoring affairs that included two shutouts and eight games where one or both teams scored two or less runs. Early on it appeared the traditional powerhouses would rule the tournament, including the two teams from the Dallas Baseball Academy and perennial favorite, Midland. Hitting takes over As the teams battled down to the Final Four, the bats began to come
Larry Harlow alive. Eventual champs DBAT Gallegos had to put up eight runs in the 7th inning to get by the Danville Hoots, erasing a three-run deficit on their way to the championship matchup with Midland. DBAT Leach took out puerto rico in grand style as reagan Todd crushed a walk-off grand slam to advance Leach a day earlier. puerto rico’s Vaqueros led off the walkoff parade with a walk-off double in a 3-2 win over the Bill Hood Broncos. For the host team it was two and through. Strikezone had Midland on the ropes opening night holding a 2-0 lead until Midland got it going putting up two in the 7th to send the game to extra innings before prevailing 3-2 in the 9th. The second game for the host team was nowhere near as close, as a dozen free passes led to 16 Danville runs in a 16-2 loss, eliminating the home team. Semifinals night had DBAT Leach falling to Midland and DBAT Gallegos sending Danville home setting up a rematch from Game No. 15 where Midland sent DBAT Gallegos to the losers bracket with a 10-3 win. For the youngest team in the tournament, this set up a nearly impossible task of twice defeating a team that had just defeated them two days earlier.
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Wounded Warriors Championship night started out with an incredible tribute to those who serve, as 10 Wounded Warriors from Colorado, Texas and New Mexico threw out the first pitches after spending a week in the area fly fishing and rock crawling. The pregame highlight was with El Paso’s Hope Clark who, after attending the Wounded
Warrior experience last year, was treated to a surprise of her own Jeep being accessorized by Joe and BJ Brown of Fabworx in Farmington, who provided the accessories to detail Clark’s old Jeep. This is the third year of doing the 4-wheel drive trip for the Wounded Warriors. Last year Clark had to sit on the sidelines and watch, telling the Browns of her wish to get her Jeep accessorized. “It was an emotional response for Hope” Brown said, “She
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was overwhelmed and questioning if she deserved it.” Championship night became a long affair as DBAT Gallegos took the first game 6-2, setting up a winner-takes-all Game 19 with both teams now holding one loss on their records. DBAT Gallegos was once again up to the challenge, knocking off Midland 7-5 to claim the Series title.
Game 1 - Frozen Ropes 11 - Carolina Vaqueros 3 Game 2 - Midland 3 - Strikezone 2 Game 3 - DBAT Gallegos 7 - Danville Hoots 5 Game 4 - DBAT Leach 11 - South Troy Dodgers 3 Game 5 - Bill Hood Broncos 3 - Detroit Metro Stars 0 Game 6 - Danville Hoots 16 - Strikezone 2 Game 7 - South Troy Dodgers 5 - Detroit Metro Stars 1 Game 8 - Midland 6 - Frozen Ropes 3 Game 9 - DBAT Leach 3 - Bill Hood Broncos 1 Game 10 - South Troy Dodgers 2 - Frozen Ropes 1 Game 11 - Carolina Vaqueros 3 - Bill Hood Broncos 2 Game 12 - DBAT Gallegos 4 - DBAT Leach 3 Game 13 - Danville Hoots 2 - South Troy Dodgers 0 Game 14 - DBAT Leach 7 - Carolina Vaqueros 3 Game 15 - Midland 10 - DBAT Gallegos 3 Game 16 - DBAT Gallegos 11 - Danville Hoots 6 Game 17 - Midland 7 - DBAT Leach 4 Game 18 - DBAT Gallegos 6 - Midland 2 Game 19 - DBAT Gallegos 7 - Midland 5 Most Valuable Player - Tony Santillan, DBAT Gallegos Gold Glove - Trent Clark, DBAT Gallegos Big Stick - Josh Watson, DBAT Gallegos Home Run Derby - Zach Clark, Bill Hood Broncos
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COURSE WORK Tomko right at home as superintendent of Hidden Valley Story by Dorothy Nobis | Photo by Josh Bishop When he was 6 years old, Jason Tomko asked his parents, Jan and Dave Tomko, if they would take him to Disneyland. Jan Tomko, Jason’s mother, shared her memories of that Disneyland vacation and how it came about. “When he was 4, we were watching television and a Disneyland commercial came on,” Jan said. “Jason asked if we could go to Disneyland and we told him when he was 6, we would go.” Two years later, on his 6th birthday, Jason reminded his parents of their promise. “He said, ‘Are we going to Disneyland tomorrow?’ and we were surprised because he hadn’t mentioned it in two years.”
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Along the way, the family stopped to visit a relative in California, who decided young Jason needed to learn how to play golf. Jan’s uncle met the family at the door, scooped up Jason, bought the youngster golf clubs and suitable golfing clothes, and they headed to the golf course, where Jason learned how to play. While other children might remember a Disneyland vacation for the rides, the Disney characters and the magic of the Disney kingdom, Jason Tomko remembers it for the golf lesson that would instill a love of the game – and the courses – that would determine his career. Tomko continued to play the game and was part of the Piedra Vista golf team. His career
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dream, however, wasn’t to be a professional golfer. It was to tend to and manage the courses that provide enjoyment – and, sometimes, a livelihood – for other golfers. As an assistant research technician with the New Mexico State University’s Agriculture Science Center in Farmington, Tomko helped with turf grass plots, tracking growth rate, water evaporation ratios and other statistics of the grass. “It was interesting stuff,” Tomko said. “I went to New Mexico State University to talk to an adviser, and he suggested I check out the turf grass management degree. I’d played golf since I was a kid and it sounded like a fun study. I tried it and I stuck with it.”
ren, the young coed he met at NMSU, and the couple decided they’d like to return home to New Mexico.
A degree in turf grass management prepares people for the growing and maintenance of large scale grass fields, including sports stadiums, golf courses and recreational areas of grass, according to the New Mexico State University’s website.
When Tomko learned that Hidden Valley Golf Course in Aztec needed a superintendent, he applied for the job, hoping to come home. He got the job and the couple happily made the move back to New Mexico. “My goal was always to be a superintendent,” he said. “The average starting age for a superintendent is 32. I’m 28 and I just fast tracked it.”
Tomko pursued his degree and was accepted as an intern at a golf course in Germany in 2008, and in 2009 he interned at a golf course in New Jersey, which hosted the Professional Golfers Association, or PGA, Barkley’s PGA Tournament. The New Jersey course offered Tomko a job, but he was dating a young woman back in New Mexico, so he moved back home. After his graduation, Tomko was hired as an assistant superintendent at the NMSU golf course. “I learned all I could,” Tomko said of his stint with NMSU, “but I wanted to learn more. I got a job at the Scarsdale Country Club in Hartsdale, New York, as an assistant superintendent.” That position gave Tomko the opportunity to hone his upper management skills, but he was working 80 hours a week. He had married Lau-
Tom McClurg is the golf pro at Hidden Valley and is happy to have Tomko on the staff. “He’s a great superintendent and a great hire,” McClurg said. “There’s no panic in him. He finds out what he’s got to do and he gets it done. Under his leadership, I believe we’ll become one of the better run courses in the county.” In addition to Tomko’s work ethic, his maturity impresses McClurg. “He’s not a ‘young’ young man,” he said. “He’s mature and he worked at a PGA golf course in New York. There’s no room for kids when you get to that level.” With the dry weather that has affected most
golf courses in the area, McClurg is confident Tomko will get the 18-hole course at Hidden Valley back in shape and the course will attract more golfers and golf tournaments. It is the challenge of getting the course back in great shape that drives Tomko. “I’m having fun, but it’s stressful that the course hasn’t filled in like I want it to,” he said of his job. “In the last few years, golf as a recreational sport has gone down. We want to draw in players from other, higher rated courses. We’re making progress, but we have a way to go.” The Hidden Valley position is much different from the courses back east, Tomko said. “It’s much more relaxed here,” he said, “and more laid back. Tom (McClurg) and the members (of the club) are the best part of this job. Hidden Valley is a great golf course. We have tournaments almost every weekend.” In addition to the tournaments, Hidden Valley offers First Tee for young people ages 6 through 18, a PGA Junior League and a ladies beginner league.
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11
FANTASY FOOTBALL
GeTTiNG reAdY FOr The drAFT
While the school year rolls around to a new year and parents celebrate and teachers and kids walk around Target depressed, it also means that football season is just around the corner and that it is time to begin researching your new Fantasy Football team or, for you addicts, teams. With drafts just around the corner, the Fantasy Geek is ready with advice for your upcoming season and preseason rankings as you work towards a championship.
THE FANTASY GEEK
RICKHOERNER
Here are 10 tips to consider when preparing to draft: 1. Know Your Point System – Most leagues use a standard scoring format, but knowing your league’s rules is essential. Is your league quarterback heavy? If the same scoring is given to quarterbacks as running backs, QBs become more valuable; or if your league allows QBs as a flex, then planning for two may change your draft strategy. Know your kicker values and DST points. They may change consideration of drafting a DST or kicker early instead of later 2. Know Your Positions – A lot of leagues have PPR scoring, or Points Per Reception. This changes the values of wide receivers, tight ends and especially running backs. When considering PPR choices, look at the number of targets a player gets. More targets, more chances for catches. PPR changes the values of backs such as Reggie Bush and Darren Sproles, and wideouts that rack up the catches, such as Wes Welker and Julian Edelman. Return yards move the Vikings Cordarrelle Patterson and Pittsburgh’s Antonio Brown up the charts quickly. 3. Forget Last Year – Don’t fall in love with players that were good for you last year. This is true especially for running backs. Remember Ray Rice’s year, and wide receivers that have lost their starting quarterback.
4. Don’t Play Favorites – Sometimes when you love a team it may sway your draft. That works well for Bronco and Saints fans most of the time, but that doesn’t always work especially if your team is, let’s say, marginal. So stay away from your team’s blog or website that tells you how good the fourth wideout is looking. 5. Don’t Hate Your Rivals – As a general rule I try to avoid Raiders and Cowboys, but I want to win my league. So if Dez Bryant is next on my wide receiver list, then Dez Bryant it is. Sure it makes Sundays tough, but I have no problem with the likes of Tony Romo who will get me the points I need then throw a pick to lose the game – win, win. 6. The Schedule Matters – A lot of your competitors will closely watch the schedule to make sure they don’t have too many players on the Bye Week. Forget the byes when drafting your regular starters. It’s not that big of a deal. Actually it may be better to have them all at one time and take the hit. However, the schedule does matter when looking at the difficulty of schedule. The AFC West, for example, faces the NFC West with four of the Top 10 DSTs in the league. You may think twice about taking Jamal Charles or Philip Rivers over others that may look statistically equal. 7. Don’t Fall in Love with Rookies – Every year there will be a breakout rookie and everyone at the draft table is looking to steal them, but it’s rare that a rookie, especially at wide receiver, is an immediate contributor. The exception to the rule is at running back. This means that the Titan’s Bishop Stankey
may be the best rookie option. Johnny Manziel and Blake Bortles may see the field, but will unlikely be Top 20 QBs. Buffalo’s rookie receiver Sammy Watkins may also be a player getting extra preseason cover, but Watkins is on a team with a limited QB and likely will not be worthy of a start most weeks. 8. Watch Out for the Dreaded “Running Back by Committee” – A recent NFL trend killing fantasy owners is the trend of moving the third down back to a full time series rest for the starter. Unless your team’s back is a three down back or receives at least 2/3 of the carries, avoid them early in drafts. New England, San Diego, Cincinnati and Detroit, among others, have gone to a committee system, making the running back position guess work some weeks. 9. Beware of the Injury Prone and Cover – Injuries can take you from contender to contributor to your league fund in a week. In my money league last year I had Julio Jones, who was leading the league in receiving before getting injured, and Michael Vick as my second QB in a two two-quarterback league. Good-bye lead. Injuries are always a gamble, so having a cover is essential. If you draft Jamal Charles, make sure you have Knile Davis. Wide Receivers are deep, so you may not always need a cover, but for running backs it is nearly mandatory. 10. Stick to the Plan – This is always the toughest part, especially if you are on either end of a snake draft. Waiting for 22 picks to happen usually means your list is getting crossed off quickly. This is why I try to use a level system instead of rating each individual player. The level system makes sure you draft for points, not for position.
The LeveL SYSTem The Level System is really simple. Rate 24 players at Level 1. This makes sure that in a 12-team league you are guaranteed to get two of these players and, depending on your draft positions, likely three. Choose the one that best fits your needs regardless of position. All Level 1 players must be gone before you move down a level. Level 2 contains Quarterbacks up to 12, 18 running backs and wide receivers, and up to 12 tight
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ends. This makes sure to cover two running backs, two wide receivers, one tight end and a W/R flex. Choose your first Level 2 from a position you did not acquire in your Level 1s. If you have all Level 1s across the board, call me. I want in your league. Obviously if one position is flying off the board, you go with that position first before all 18 are gone. If that should happen, there still should be Level 2 at other positions. Again, finish Level 2 before moving down to Level 3
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Level 3 is where you find your backups, covers for possible injuries, and make some reaches. This may also be a place to get a DST if there is one you are really high on, such as the Seahawks or 49ers at the beginning of the Level. Save the kickers for the end or perhaps Round 15. Keep a balance between positions – one backup at quarterback, one at tight end. Load up at running back and wide receiver
* Fantasy Football 14
Level 1 – 24 players, must have two QUARTERBACKS
RUNNING BACKS
WIDE RECEIVERS
TIGHT ENDS
Peyton Manning Drew Brees Aaron Rodgers Andrew Luck Kolin Kaepernick Matt Stafford Cam Newton
LeSean McCoy Jamal Charles Adrian Petersen Matt Forte Marshawn Lynch Arian Foster Eddie Lacy
Calvin Johnson Demaryius Thomas Dez Bryant Brandon Marshall AJ Green Julio Jones Antonio Brown
Jimmy Graham Julius Thomas Rob Gronkowski
Gronkowski will be a stretch because of his injuries, and my league is quarterback heavy and PPR, but you get the gist
Level 2 – Fill out at QB and TE, two RBs and two TEs QUARTERBACKS 8-12
RUNNING BACKS 8-30
RUNNING BACKS 8-30
WIDE RECEIVERS DST 8-30 1-24
Tom Brady Matt Ryan Nick Foles Tony Romo Jay Cutler
Montee Ball Le’veon Bell DeMarco Murray Giovanni Bernard Doug Martin Zach Stacy Alfred Morris Andre Ellington Reggie Bush Ryan Mathews CJ Spiller Ray Rice Rashad Jennings Ben Tate Steven Jackson Frank Gore
Bishop Shankey Pierre Thomas Toby Gerhart Trent Richardson Stevan Ridley Lamar Miller Chris Johnson
Keenan Allen Andre Johnson Michael Crabtree Victor Cruz Wes Welker Julian Edelman Percy Harvin Torrey Smith Marquis Colson Cordarelle Patterson Reggie Wayne Kendall Wright Michael Floyd Roddy White DeSean Jackson Eric Decker Riley Cooper
TIGHT ENDS 4-12 Vernon Davis Jason Witten Jordan Cameron Greg Olsen Kyle Rudolph Dennis Pitta Jordan Reed Antonio Gates
WIDE RECEIVERS 8-30 Randall Cobb Alshon Jeffery Pierre Garcon Jordy Nelson Vincent Jackson Larry Fitzgerald
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Level 3 – Backups, Gambles and Covers QUARTERBACKS 13-26
RUNNING BACKS 31-52
WIDE RECEIVERS 31-52
TIGHT ENDS 12-26
Ben roethlisberger Carson palmer philip rivers Joe Flacco russell Wilson Andy Dalton Eli Manning Alex Smith Sam Bradford ryan tannehill ryan Fitzpatrick Chad Henne teddy Bridgewater Michael Vick
Joique Bell Shane Vereen Danny Woodhead Fred Jackson Jaquizz rogers Maurice Jones-Drew Darren McFadden David Wilson Chris Ivory DeAngelo Williams Bernard pierce Mark Ingram Kendall Hunter Darren Sproles Khiry robinson roy Helu Ahmad Bradshaw Stephen taylor James Starks Knowshon Moreno Knile Davis BenJarvus Green-Ellis
Mike Wallace Dwayne Bowe t.Y. Hilton Emmanuel Sanders Deandre Hopkins Sammy Watkins Anquan Boldin James Jones tavon Austin Danny Amendola robert Woods Jeremy Maclin Brandon LaFell Doug Baldwin Justin Hunter rod Streater Kenny Stills odell Beckham Jarrett Boykin Cecil Shorts Aaron Dobson reuben randle
Zach Ertz Martellus Bennett Charles Clay Delanie Walker Heath Miller Eric Ebron Coby Fleenor Garrett Graham Jared Cook Ladarius Green timothy Wright John Carlson tyler Eifert Andrew Quarless
KICKERS 1-12 Matt prater Stephen Gostkowski Steven Haushka Justin tucker Dan Bailey phil Dawson Matt Bryant robbie Gould Nick Novak Mason Crosby Sebastian Janikowski Adam Vinateri
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So there you go – 192 players to fill your roster. Add a few of your own sleepers and 200 will easily cover you for your draft. remember, this is not a priority list. Choose players you like and enjoy the ride. Good Luck this season.
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New PV athletic director
Coach Whalen set to lead Piedra Vista sports Story by Debra Mayeux After spending the past 10 years coaching various sports at Piedra Vista High School, Frank Whalen has been named the school’s new director of athletics. Whalen stepped into the position after former athletic director Kelly Thur was promoted to assistant principal. Whalen began working for Farmington Municipal Schools in 1994 at Mesa View Middle School. He came here from Rye, Colo. Whalen remained at Mesa View until Piedra Vista opened. Then, he moved to the high school and has stayed there since that time. During his tenure at Piedra Vista, Whalen has coached football, boys basketball and softball. He won nine straight state championships in softball and took the football team to the finals one time, when the Panthers were beat during the state championship.
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A Panther through and through, Whalen has panther artwork on his walls, a carved panther on his desk, and he has every reason to want the athletics program to remain competitive and be successful. He also has some ideas of how to build upon the school’s various sporting successes. “The reason I wanted this job was I’ve always been at Piedra Vista, and athletics are a part of my life,” he said. “I’m very passionate about it.” Whalen said he wants to help the coaches and provide them with the tools they need, including equipment, clinics and training. Whalen also has a goal to build support among Piedra Vista High School alumni, many of whom have graduated from college and moved into building careers and families in the community. “I really wanted to help
AUGUST 2014
promote school spirit and get people excited about Piedra Vista,” Whalen said. “I want to get the alumni involved and start a Piedra Vista Hall of Fame.” Farmington High School has a sports-related hall of fame that recognizes the professional and personal successes of past athletes. Whalen wants to do the same at Piedra Vista High School, with hopes of reaching into the community and developing relationships to bring further support to the school. He has a desire to build upon Piedra Vista’s competitive programs and instill a “high-quality character” into the athletes. This could be achieved through community involvement and showing the athletes the benefit of giving back to their hometown. “Everything I do is going to be to try to make Piedra Vista High School better,” Whalen said.
The team poses for a photo after the championship game. Farmington Cardinals from left include DJ Maes; Rudy Gonzales; Jake Nelson; Josh Wulfert; Jacob Kuhn; Ryan Ray; Trel Griego; Dax Vigil; Colton Roquemore and Aiden Etsitty.
TRIpLE CROWn WORLD SERIES
Tom Yost Courtesy photos
The 9U Farmington Cardinals recently competed in the Triple Crown World Series in Steamboat Springs, Colo. The Cardinals were the only 9-year-old team from New Mexico and competed against 19 teams from Colorado, Utah, Missouri, Oklahoma, and California.
Farmington Cardinals take second in tournament’s top division
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“We came to Steamboat hoping to maybe finish in the top three of the lower division, but our kids obviously had other plans,” said Assistant Coach John Kuhn. “This team has a lot of heart and more importantly they have some great parents that stood behind the coaches every step of the way; which is why we were able to do what we did. I’m just happy that I was there to see it in person because I’m not sure I would have believed it otherwise.”
Jacob Kuhn rounding first and heading to second base.
Josh Wulfert throwing a change-up pitch.
They finished the tournament in second place overall in the top division with a record of 7 wins and 2 losses over the 6-day event. Their biggest wins came against North Denver (twice), a team from Kansas City, Missouri, and a tight 3-2 victory over San Diego, California to make it into the Championship Game. Both losses came against the eventual Champion and one of the top
Jake Nelson throwing a stealing runner out.
9U teams out of Anaheim, California, with a final score of 9-4 in the Championship Game. “The best compliment we received all tournament was when the coach of the eventual champion SoCal (Southern California) Shockers came up to me and said you guys need to come out and play baseball in SoCal,” said Head Coach Mike Wulfert. “You can compete with the best.”
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Racing alive and well
Aztec Speedway, FCDRA new track have big plans for the future Story by Dorothy Nobis | Courtesy photos money and effort into the speedway.
For years, Aztec Speedway was the track to which local dirt track racers headed on weekends, to compete with other racers and to enjoy what has become an increasingly popular sport. Several years ago, there were questions as to who had the lease to the track and who was entitled to operate it. While the debate continued as to who had the rights to run the track, Jason Sandel, whose family owns Aztec Well Service and land adjacent to the speedway, saw an opportunity for his company to possibly lease the land. “We had our eye on the land and we are neighbors to the land,” Sandel said. “The previous leasers had allowed the lease to expire. The state’s Land Office put the lease out to bid. We submitted a bid and, in 2011, we were awarded the lease.” Sandel saw the opportunity to improve a track that would continue to bring in local racers and race fans. “We had a real interest in getting effective track management. We knew the track could be a mainstay (for racers and fans) for years to come if we had the right style of management,” he said. Sandel hired Mike Tenski, a diesel instructor at San Juan College, to manage the track. Bringing the track up to the standard Sandel holds for all of his businesses, he began investing his time,
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“We built a new concession stand and brought it up to our standard of delivery and product and we brought in clay to mix with the soil to compact the track,” he said. “It (the speedway) isn’t about making money, it’s about community service and giving back to the racing community.” “We were going to operate the track for their benefit,” Sandel said of the racing community. “And that’s why we brought in Mike (Tenski), and that’s been the foundation of our relationship.”
Speedway sanctioned by MCA Aztec Speedway is sanctioned by the International Motor Contest Association, and offers racers of modifieds, stock cars, hobby stocks, late models and mini stocks, and sportmods the opportunity to race to the checkered flag during a season that typically begins in early spring and continues through October. Sheri Rogers is an avid racing fan and is also a commissioner for the city of Aztec. “I’ve always enjoyed auto racing,” Rogers said. “Even as a child, there was a race track on land my aunt and uncle owned in Delta, Colo., and we would go as a family, spread out our blankets, set up our lawn chairs and enjoy the show.” While no longer sitting in a lawn chair on a rel-
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ative’s land, Rogers said she enjoys the amenities and the fun that Aztec Speedway has to offer. “As an adult, it’s even more fun going to the Aztec Speedway to enjoy the excitement and the sound of the engines roaring as they speed around the track,” she said, adding the experience provides an adrenaline rush and makes for happy fans. “I like to pick who I think is going to win by watching them in their pre-race laps and cheering them on with the crowd,” Rogers said. “As a city commissioner, it also makes me feel good to see all the families there, spending time together and having fun. And, again as a commissioner, I appreciate the benefits Aztec enjoys by having the race track here.”
Economic benefits For an elected official, Rogers said seeing the economic benefits Aztec Speedway brings to the community is rewarding. “There are fiscal benefits of having the racing crews from out of town staying at the Microtel, which is right across from the speedway, and frequenting our local restaurants,” she said. “The best benefit, though, is having such an all American, family friendly, fun-filled event to attend, right here in Aztec.”
* Speedway 32
What’s in a name? Over the past few years there has been a growing cry to change the name of the NFL’s Washington Redskins. in early June, 50 U.S. Senators, all Democrats, submitted a letter to the NFL office and commissioner Roger Goddell requesting a name change for Washington. in 2013 a smaller group of only 10 Senators issued a similar request, asking the NFL to change the name, only to have Goddell reply that the Washington team name is “a unifying force for strength, courage, pride and respect.” With the response the NBA made to racial remarks by Los Angeles clippers owner Donald Sterling, the tide has now turned and Washington owner Dan Snyder is now under the gun after pledging to never change the name as long as he was the owner.
in today’s political climate every issue is jumped to the other side of one’s opponent, and the announcement that the United States Patent ick OERNER Office was canceling Washington’s trademark registration set off a firestorm in the news Editorial columnist pundit world and in the digital world of Facebook, Twitter and the lovely world of the anonymous comment box. Many decried another overreach of the federal government and yet another example of a loss of individual freedom. Others asked why the change is taking so long. The Washington nickname issue is more than trademark loss, or even about race, as much as it is about how we view government and its involvement in social issues and whether the government should be an agent for social change.
R H
Name changes under political pressure are not really all that new. Washington, D.c., has already gone through a name change once before as have American indian themed mascots. Major universities, and even schools right here in the Four corners, have made name changes as a sign of the changing nature of societal norms. One will have to excuse the skepticism of Washington fans on the insistence of the name change. in 1997, then Washington Bullets owner Abe Pollin changed the name of the NBA franchise to the Wizards, stating that he “didn’t want to contribute to Washington’s reputation for violent crime.” in 1972 a group of American indian students made a plea to Stanford University President Richard Lyman to change the name of the university mascot from the indians, which Stanford had been using since the early 1930s, stating the mascot was “stereotypical, offensive, and a mockery of indian cultures. Over the next 40 years many other colleges have joined Stanford and dropped American indian nicknames or stopped using stereotypical American indian imagery as mascots. Just north of the border, Fort Lewis college changed its name from Raiders to Skyhawks in 1994, stating that the symbol of a cavalry rider as a Raider was offensive to a part of the school’s native student population. Farmington Schools has also changed its mascots at the elementary school level changing Mckinley Elementary from Raiders to Jaguars and Apache from Warriors to Tigers. (Mesa Verde as well, but that’s a whole other topic.) Of course violent crime did not decrease in Washington with a simple name change. Actually after the change the Wizards had the most infamous gun incident in recent NBA history when All-Star guard Gilbert Arenas pulled a handgun on his own teammate while playing cards in the Wizards locker room. For the universities that have changed names there really hasn’t been anything of significance, including Fort Lewis’ change. Of course there are just as many that have not made the change, including prominent sports universities such as Florida State and illinois, which has dropped all sanctioned American indian imagery. Hundreds of high schools still use American indian imagery as their mascots, including Redskins, one being just across the border in Red Mesa, Ariz.
This social change may not always be the will of government as much as it is a political reaction of survival. As the winds of civil rights blow, politicians move with them. in 2004 only 10 percent of American indians surveyed found the name “Redskins” offensive, almost matching the percentage of Senators pushing the issue. Move forward a decade and 23 American indian tribes and more than 50 organizations that represent various American indian groups have now called for the removal of the mascot. The website savethewashingotnredskins.com states that “Redskins is an anachronism. it is not a slur. it certainly is not — and never has been — the equivalent of the ‘N-word.’ … Redskin is an old-fashioned word, once used a great deal in literature and newspapers and Western movies. it was used as a synonym for indian. Nothing more.” The same can be said for the defense of other terms now considered offensive in public or private company. Homosexual slurs and stereotypes were in literature and entertainment from the first stereotypical gay character on TV in Soap’s Jody Dallas to a once popular phrase heard in every high school, “that’s gay” meaning it wasn’t well liked or it was ridiculous. The N word was also prevalent in literature including Twain’s Huckleberry Finn, but society evolves. Just because the term has historical reference doesn’t mean it’s not offensive, just as First Amendment rights may give you the right to say what you choose, but not without consequences. in the summer of 2013 the Piedra Vista Lady Panthers traveled to Alamosa for a summer basketball team camp. in one game they were scheduled to play Lamar, colo. Lamar’s mascot is the Savages and they have a large American indian headdress on their uniforms. While some of the girls were not fazed by the logo or nickname, others definitely were. When asked, the parents and coaches of Lamar echoed the Redskin supporters. The name is a tribute, not a slur, and while “Redskin” may not be a current insult for the American indian population, “Savages” is definitely no tribute to their social standing. The letter from the senators suggests the National Football League send the same clear message the NBA did. “Racism and bigotry have no
* Hoerner 35 AUGUST 2014
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INTERESTED IN BEING A REF? Northwest New Mexico Football Official Association needs recruits Story by Debra Mayeux | Courtesy photos The Northwest New Mexico Football Official Association is seeking individuals to become football officials for this season’s middle and high school football games. The season begins Aug. 29 and runs through late November, depending on how far the teams progress into the state final competitions. The association has 16 certified officials that are schedued to work games in Gallup, Grants, the San Juan Basin and on the Navajo Reservation. This number is not high enough to handle all
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of the games, considering that it takes a team of five individuals to referee a single high school football game. An informational meeting and a new officials’ clinic has been scheduled for Aug. 23 in Farmington. It will be sponsored by the Northwest New Mexico Football Association (NWNMFOA) to provide individuals with the knowledge they need to feel comfortable on the football field. In association with the New Mexico Athletics Association and the New Mexico Officials Association, the Northwest New Mexico
Football Association will help individuals to obtain the training they need as well as provide them with necessary equipment, until the person is certain they want to continue as a referee. The cost associated with becoming a middle and high school football referee in New Mexico runs about $150, according to Brent Hamilton, a member of the NWNMFOA. A person must pay a $50 registration fee with New Mexico Athletics Association, or NMAA, to work as an official. The NMAA provides the person with a rule book to study for a test that must be completed. New Mexico follows the rules developed by the National Federation of State High School Associations, said Dave Pixton, group leader of the NWNMFOA. It is important for officials to understand these rules, because they differ from collegiate and professional football. “You self-study the rules and knowing how to apply them and then we help with the mechanics of being on the field,” Hamilton said.
Hamilton said, “and the kids really can’t play without somebody officiating.”
So what makes a good official? “Having an interest is the first step. It’s nice if you have some knowledge of the game,” Hamilton said. The rule book helps and so does the NWNMFOA. “Officiating is a sport within a sport,” Pixton said. “It’s very challenging to move and know where you need to be on the field. It’s a huge challenge to officiate.” The NWNMFOA is there to help people learn how to move, to help them feel comfortable on the field. “Our goal would be to have enough people, and to train them as much as we could before they get thrown into the games,” Pixton said. The training begins Aug. 23, but there also is a progression from one level of officiating to another. Most people begin officiating at the middle-school level. This gives them an opportunity to get to know the game, Hamilton said, adding that there is a great need for officials at the middle-school level. “Those games are at four in the afternoon,”
As a person officiates more games and gains more experience, they move up in certifications. “You could advance to be able to officiate playoffs and state championships,” Pixton said. There are other benefits as well. “Not only do you get the opportunity to give back to the community and help with middle and high school sports, you get paid,” Pixton said. The pay amount is based on certification and skill level, but it could be around $1,500 a season. The NWNMFOA begins meeting in July each year to prepare for the upcoming season. Meetings are from 6 to 7:30 p.m. Mondays. They provide training and support including discussing such things as rules and mechanics of the game to how to deal with coaches. More information is available on Facebook at the Northwest New Mexico Football Officials Facebook Page, or potential officials can call Pixton at 505.320.3985, or email at davidpixton@hotmail.com.
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Shilo McCall graduated from Piedra Vista High School and was drafted by the San Francisco Giants in the 9th round of the 2012 MLB June Amateur Draft. He plays for the Salem-Keizer Volcanoes of the Class A Northwest League, an affiliate of the San Francisco Giants.
SHILoMCCALL
He is currently batting around .210 for the season with 18 Runs Batted In, 3 Home Runs and 12 Doubles.
1
2
3
Since we last spoke, how has life in the minor leagues been different from your expectations? Before I signed, I had spoken to people who had played professional baseball before I did, and they told me about how much of a “grind” pro baseball was. At the time, I thought they were crazy and questioned how playing baseball every day could be a grind. Well, after two and a half years playing pro baseball, I finally understand “the grind.” It’s hard to explain to people who haven’t done it. What has been the biggest adjustment that you have made from high school to professional baseball? In high school I was able to take days off mentally, not be 100 percent focused, and I still performed well. In professional baseball you can’t take any days off mentally if you want to perform at a high level. You have to have your mental armor on every day. It’s relentless. How did your time with Piedra Vista prepare you for minor league baseball? Honestly, leaving high school I thought I was well equipped and prepared for professional baseball, but to be honest nothing can fully prepare you for minor league baseball. You’re out on your own in the real world playing against grown men from all over the world and you’re competing at a high level – day in and day out. There really is nothing like it and no way to prepare for the grind you have to face. It’s kind of a “learn as you go” kind of thing.
4
Evaluate how your first couple of years have gone according to your 5- and 10-year plan. My first couple of years have gone both very predictably and not at the same time. I am still playing professional baseball, which I predicted. But many of the things that have happened to me along the way I never guessed would have happened.
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5
What are your current strengths?
My current strengths are that I am willing to put in hard work every day during the season and also during the offseason to become a more rounded baseball player.
6
What are your current weaknesses?
Consistency. I’m still trying to find the right mental approach to the game to enable me to perform consistently every day throughout the year.
7
What is the greatest challenge ahead of you to move up from your current level to the next levels?
Consistency. It is easy to go out and be spectacular on any one given day, but playing at that same high level on a consistent basis is the hardest thing I’ve had to do.
8
What do you love about the Pacific Northwest?
The outdoors is incredible in the Northwest. The ocean is only an hour away, the mountains are close and world-class fly-fishing is everywhere.
9
What do you miss about not being at home?
I miss my family above everything. But I also miss the awesome summer weather and being able to go camping and fishing, and all the other summer activities that I miss out on during the season.
10
What do you enjoy doing in your free time away from baseball?
I enjoy fly-fishing, a little bit of hunting, pretty much anything outdoors.
R Sports at new location After being located at the Animas Valley Mall since 1992, R Sports is moving to its new location at 3010 E. 20th St. Suite B, next to Hastings. Owner Richard Ruybalid said the new location will allow R Sports to increase their children’s apparel inventory and the location also provides a better layout for the store's many sports items. Ruybalid said the move also will allow the company to support area youth athletics, enhance their rewards program and “support kids more than we’ve been able to in the past.”
Fishing REPORT Fishing on the San Juan River below Navajo Lake has been very good through the month of July. Current flows are 648 cfs. With hatches at a minimum, look for the fish to be holding in some of the slower water, and feeding in the early morning hours. Look for the water level to increase slightly in August. Some of the hot nymphs to try are: Size 22 Gray Big Mac Size 22 Cream Larvae Size 22 Red Larvae
T.J. Massey San Juan River Outfitters www.sanjuanriveroutfitters.com 505.486.5347 Size 22 Black and Gray Midge Size 24 Olive Midge Size 18 Tan Chamois Leach Best dry fly patterns are: Size 18 Black Foam Ant Size 18 Griffiths Gnat Size 22 Parachute Adams Fishing below the Quality Waters has been good using night crawlers and salmon eggs. Fly fisherman have been doing great in this section of river using a size 16 Orange San Juan Worm trailed by a size 20 Chocolate Foam Wing.
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FET concEpT sprEads
ThroughouT communiTy Hospital’s program creates happy, healthy and more productive employees Debra Mayeux Courtesy photos Corporate athletes are in the making throughout San Juan County, since the hospital decided four years ago to begin offering Full Engagement training to the community. Full Engagement training, or FEt, gives participants a look at how productive, healthy and happy they can be if they pay attention to and work at finding a balance between their body, mind and spirit in every aspect of their lives. Developed by psychologist Jim Loehr, the program focuses on nutrition, exercise, energy management and work-life balance. Loehr has worked with athletes, businesses, police departments and the military to provide people with the tools to maximize their energy and get the most out of their lives. “I don’t think there’s anybody that can’t benefit in from it in some way,” said Sandi Grunwaldt, manager of the local FEt program. “You don’t need to be any type of person, age or ability. Anyone can benefit.” FEt was introduced in 2003 to San Juan regional Medical Center’s board of directors and employees by then-CEo Steve Altmiller, who attended a FEt training in Florida. Altmiller developed a program for the hospital’s employees, which was offered between 2004 and 2009, and then it was decided to open it up to the community. “As the hospital became more focused on wellness, we began offering FEt to the community,” Grunwaldt said.
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Pilot groups were set up within organizations and the schools. “We started getting grant funding to have the schools join us in 2010,” Grunwaldt said. “We do more school groups in the summer.” Educators participate in the FET training and take the helpful tips back to their school, where they can share the techniques with children. This creates more health-conscious children, who, it is hoped will retain the knowledge into their adulthood. “People don’t realize even little steps make a big difference in how you feel,” Grunwaldt said. FET does not promote dieting, nor does it teach that everyone should be an Olympic athlete. What it does focus on is healthy eating, which incorporates correct portion sizes into your meals. It encourages people to exercise daily with both cardiovascular and strengthtraining exercises in the mix. It also shows people how to balance their blood sugar by snacking between meals, and it promotes the concept of getting out of your chair and moving around or stretching every 30 minutes. Other aspects of the program, deal with discovering and facing the facts about yourself and the reasons you might not be successful when it comes to healthy living. Each participant is provided with free diagnostic testing and the results given to them during the training. They have an opportunity to see if their cholesterol or sugars are too high, and they are given tools to help manage the numbers and bring them down. There is a journaling component, tools for stress management and storytelling. While FET is not a measured wellness program, it provides participants with the tools they need for healthier and happier living. “It is intended to change the culture, where it is ac-
The 10 most important energy management strategies, according to Loehr, include: • • • • • • • • • •
Go to bed early and wake up early Go to sleep and wake up consistently at the same times Eat five to six small meals daily Eat breakfast everyday Eat a balanced, healthy diet Minimize simple sugars Drink 48 to 64 ounces of water daily Take breaks every 90 minutes during work Get some physical activity daily Do at least two cardiovascular interval workouts and two strength training workouts a week.
ceptable to walk on a break, to bring healthy snacks to a meeting … It is intended for the whole culture where corporate work, work, work is not the goal,” Grunwaldt said. Another important aspect of FET is that the participants don’t just spend three days in training and then are left on their own to figure the rest of it out. There are “recharge” sessions, which allow for re-evaluations of the diagnostic testing and a chance to revisit the lifestyle changes promoted by FET. Participants also have access to a hospital-provided coach,
gym memberships and nutritional support. What started out at the hospital has spread to the city of Farmington, the school districts, San Juan County and ConocoPhillips – to name a few. Some 1,300 resident have attended the trainings, with the hospital offering about 100 sessions per year. “The word is spreading about the concept – if you have healthy employees, they seem to be happier and more productive,” Grunwaldt said.
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Tomko continued from 11 The course has a 40-year history of providing golfing opportunities for area golfers. Originally built as a nine-hole course, the course was expanded to 18 holes in April of 2001. It is a par 72 and is open from 7 a.m. until dark. The Rusty Putter Bar and Grill serves breakfast and lunch every day and has a full liquor license for those seeking to relax at the “Nineteenth Hole.” Being at a golf course six days a week – and seven during the summer – leaves little time for those who work at Hidden Valley to enjoy the sport. Tomko said he manages to play a couple of times a week, but spends most of his spare time with his wife and his family. The little boy who favored golf over Disneyland is happy to be back home and at Hidden Valley. “I want to stay here,” Tomko said of his future at Hidden Valley. “I want to get this course back on its feet and to see the course full (of golfers). And I want to put my own personal touch on this place.”
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“And it’s good to be home and close to family,” he added. His mother is equally happy to have her son
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and daughter-in-law close by. “I’m glad he’s home, doing so well and enjoying his job – and he’s lovin’ life right now,” she said. “What more could you ask for your children?”
Making the best
of everything Farmington’s Jon Mestas joins Amarillo Sox Tom Yost Courtesy photos Jon Mestas was having wonderful success in his first season with the Windy City Thunderbolts of the Independent Frontier League. Batting around .270 in 140 at bats with the Thunderbolts, Mestas was a utility guy in the infield and a mainstay at the DH (designated hitter). That was until just recently, when Mestas received a phone call. “I just received a call from the Amarillo Sox of the American Association to come play ball for them,” said Mestas. “It is a great move for me as it is a step up with many more ex-professionals and veterans playing ball than in Windy City.” Mestas, a product of Farmington High School where he won four consecutive state championships, graduated in 2008 and then spent years at Mesa State College in Colorado, then Seward Community College in Kansas before going to the University of Buffalo. The Windy City Thunderbolts drafted Mestas after his success in the California Winter League, where he was one of 50 players who were signed out of the 300 players in the league. As he moves on to Amarillo, Mestas feels he will get to play in the field more. “I was extremely happy when the coach called and told me that they were looking for a middle infielder,” explained Mestas. “I am looking forward to learning and growing as a professional and to produce at whatever position they ask me to play.” Both the Thunderbolts and the Sox are teams in independent leagues, which means that they aren’t affiliated with any major league team, but players from the independent leagues can be signed to Major League organizations at any time. Mestas credits a lot of what he has accomplished to his years at Farmington High School.
* Mestas 34
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Torres headed to Pebble Beach for First Tee Open TOmYOST The First Tee
Three very short years ago, Raymond Torres started to play the game of golf at Hidden Valley Golf Course under the tutelage of Tom mcClurg. When mcClurg was approached about operating a program location of The First Tee of San Juan County, N.m., he jumped at the chance. Those two decisions have resulted in a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity for Torres, who recently was selected as one of 81 participants taking part in The Nature Valley First Tee Open at Pebble Beach Golf Links towards the end of September. “Raymond being selected to play at Pebble Beach is a truly great accomplishment,” explained mcClurg. “It proves that if you work hard and do the right things, good things will eventually come to you. His being chosen will inspire all of the young kids in our chapter, who come from tough situations, that hard work does pay off.” Torres becomes the second consecutive participant from The First Tee of San Juan County, N.m., to be selected to attend The Nature Valley First Tee Open. In 2013, Patrick Gregoire was selected as a participant for the event, was paired up with Senior PGA Tour Player, Dan Forsman, and finished the tournament in 6th place.
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This year Torres’s dream will come true. “It means the world to me to get to play Pebble Beach in the Nature Valley First Tee Open,” explained Torres. “It will be one of the greatest experiences of my lifetime. For starters, I have never flown on an airplane before, and then to get to play Pebble Beach and meet some players on the Senior PGA Tour is unbelievable.” “This is the ultimate experience for participants of The First Tee,” said chapter Executive Director, Thomas Yost. “Raymond is the second participant selected to play in The Nature Valley First Tee Open from our chapter and there isn’t a more deserving person that we have worked with. We, as a chapter, are thrilled to have Raymond selected for this life-changing experience. He will remember this for the rest of his life.” Torres has progressed through the PLAYer, Par and Birdie Levels of The First Tee Life Skills Curriculum within his last two years. He has played at the varsity level for Aztec High School and narrowly missed going to the state tournament last year. Torres spends his days at Hidden Valley Golf Club either working at the course, working on his golf game or mentoring younger participants
at The First Tee of San Juan County, N.M. “Raymond is the model for how our life skills curriculum can change lives and provide opportunities. He incorporates our Nine Core Values in his daily life and has worked hard on his golf skills to accomplish what he has,” said Yost. “To me, the First Tee is all about helping people, like Raymond, who are willing to work hard to succeed,” added McClurg. “I believe the committee members read his story and they made the decision that this is someone they can help by giving him this wonderful opportunity.” The relationship between Torres and McClurg has turned into a wonderful bond between mentor and student. McClurg has taken Torres under his wing in all aspects of daily life and helped him through some tough times. That relationship will continue, as McClurg will be caddying for Torres at the Nature Valley First Tee Open. “Tom caddying for me means so much,” said Torres. “He has helped me out through quite a bit and has been there for me. I am so glad that he is going to be down there with me because he is going to make me feel like I belong there and will make the whole experience more enjoyable.”
McClurg is going to use the experience to help encourage younger participants within his program to become all that they can be. “The First Tee is helping revive the great sport of golf by bringing the game to kids like Raymond, who without the program would have never been exposed to it,” said McClurg. “My career in golf has had many great highlights, and sharing the experiences at Pebble Beach with Raymond is going to be right at the top of the list. I look forward to returning home and sharing the experiences of the trip with the upcoming participants of The First Tee – hoping to inspire some of them to set a goal of playing in this great event.” The outcome of the three-day event on the Monterey Peninsula in September is arbitrary. What truly matters is that a young man in Aztec continues to improve himself on a daily basis – both on and off the golf course. “Raymond is growing as a person daily, and by the time he returns he is not going to be the same person,” explained McClurg. “He is going to be a better person and this event should springboard his life into bigger and better things. That's what The First Tee is all about.”
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Speedway continued from
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The economic impact the speedway offers has not been missed by Jason Sandel. “We’re going to continue to invest in the track and the community and we have high hopes of bringing concerts to the track. We’d like to use the facility for events other than racing, and we’d like to build a 2,500seat amphitheater, and bring in concerts. We’d like this to be a special attraction for the Four Corners.” A concert held last year brought in a large crowd, in spite of the fact that the area received one of the few rain storms of the year that night. “Everyone had a good time and we helped Those Devils, a talented band, on the big stage, which is where they are much of the time, now.” “My father (former State Representative Jerry Sandel) and I enjoy putting smiles on the faces of people in the area,” Sandel said. “We hope Aztec Speedway becomes the center for motorcycle races, monster truck races – we have 40 acres of outdoor playground for the community of Aztec.” Sandel said Aztec city officials have been sup-
Artists image of track.
portive of the efforts at the speedway. “We wouldn’t make an investment in the speedway if we didn’t believe in it,” he said. “And we’re inspired and look forward to a very bright future.” With Aztec Speedway garnering lots of attention and crowds in the northern part of the county, there is another racetrack that is coming
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into its own as well.
Four Corners Drag Racing Association The Four Corners Drag Racing Association, or FCDRA, continues work on its track, located near Sims Mesa, just off Highway 64, turning left on Highway 522. Volunteers have spent countless hours working on the 38 acres of land they have
“This really has been a community effort,” James said of the project. “Racers are excited about the track, and businesses and citizens have been generous with their donations.” The paving of the track will be a major undertaking, James admitted. “We’ve got more than $1 million to raise,” he said, “but we’re hoping to raise it and get the pavement down by fall.”
leased from the Smith family to create Porter Smith Raceway, another dirt track venue for local racers and fans. Volunteers have moved between 450,000 to 500,000 cubic yards of dirt, using equipment, fuel and time that were donated in this community effort. After more than a year of hard work, the FCDRA hosted an open house this spring and invited people to take a look at their labor of love and share the vision of what organizers hope it will become.
“We had a good turnout,” said Paul James, one of the organizers and volunteers. “People were impressed with what we had done and we got some additional volunteers.” More than 10,000 feet of pipe fence still needs to be installed, and donations are currently being sought to help pay for the next phase of the project, the paving. People have been generous with their donations, James said, and in addition to providing much needed money, have donated equipment, the pipe for the fence, lighting for the track, and timing equipment.
The determination of the members of the FCDRA is intense and they believe the track will be used by many in the area. “The local drag racers are very excited and the word about the track is starting to get out to the younger kids,” James said. A recent trip to Denver garnered support from members of the National Hot Rod Association, James said. “We spoke to several of the professional drivers and told them about our track. They were very interested and excited about a new drag strip being built.” If you’d like to donate to the project, would like to volunteer or need additional information, James invites people to call him at 505.330.6365, or Glen Cockrell at 505.330.6875.
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Mestas continued from 29 “Farmington High School’s program did a great job in preparing me for what I am doing today because of how cut-throat the program was,” said Mestas. “You were always trying to earn your job which is exactly how it is out here. I didn’t play a lot as a junior in high school, but it prepared me for my senior year.” Mestas realizes the long road ahead, but understands what he needs to improve to move up the ranks into the minor leagues.
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“As I get older, I am starting to mature and realize how to identify my weaknesses and work to improve upon them,” said Mestas. “Every day you come out to the field you have a plan to improve. I also am learning to realize what I do well on the field and not always focus on the negative aspects of my game.”
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AUGUST 2014
Mestas Mestas is determined to improve and climb the ladder of professional baseball, but also understands the odds that are stacked against him. “I am always watching the veterans, trying to pick their brains so that I can improve,” explained Mestas. “I am trying to make the best out of everything and take advantage of these opportunities to better myself. I am going to exhaust every opportunity that baseball gives to me, but I understand that at the end of the day there is life after baseball.” Mestas continues to improve and continues to draw the notice of higher-level teams. With the proper work ethic instilled and a wonderful attitude toward the game, he will continue to move toward reaching his goals in professional baseball.
Hoerner continued from 21 place in professional sports,” the letter said. “It’s time for the NFL to endorse a name change. … Now is the time for the NFL to act. The Washington, D.C., football team is on the wrong side of history. What message does it send to punish slurs against African Americans while endorsing slurs against Native Americans?” The webmaster of savethewashingtonredskins says that majority should rule: that a simple majority should decide whether the name should be changed or not and that the name itself is a freedom of speech First Amendment right. That’s not how our system works. The Constitution is not for the majority to have its way. It is there to protect the minority from the will of the majority. If majority was to rule, school segregation and slavery during the antebellum period was favored by the majority as were Jim Crow Laws and the lack of support for women’s voting rights the first century and a half of this country’s existence. If this is country is to live out the dream of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr., where people are not judged by the color of their skin but by the content of their character, then surely the NFL can change a mascot solely based on skin color.
AUGUST 2014
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