New Mexico Rail Runner Express Fall 2017

express Fall / Winter Issue

RAIL RUNNER EXPRESS

The official magazine of the New Mexico Rail Runner Express

Holiday adventures abound.

Start a new tradition and discover the enchanted places in New Mexico.

www.riometro.org | www.travelnewmex.com | FALL / WINTER 2017

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INDEX 6: Balloon Fiesta: New Mexico’s Unique Attraction

31: Weekend Schedule

8: Group Travel on the Train is Fun and Affordable

32: Holiday Schedule

9: The Pueblo of Jemez “This is the Place”

33: Question & Answer

11: Chama: New Mexico’s Mecca for Winter Fun

34: Schedule of Events

12: Haunted Places Along the Rails

36: Setting the Tone for the Season

13: Lowell Observatory - Mars Hill

37: The New Cochiti Visitor Center Featuring

16: Helping Students on their Journey to Higher Ed

Cochiti Artist and Much More!

18: Join Us, As We Make History

38: Karma Café: Great Food, Community Strong

19: Sadie’s: New Mexico Soul Food

40: Los Lunas: Small Village, Big Historic Role

21: Paint. Drink Wine. Have Fun!

44: Cornerstone of New Mexico’s Art History

22: Old Town Albuquerque

45: Steel Bender Brewyard, Built to Brew in Los Ranchos

24: Palate Pleasing Menu at the Church Street Café!

47: The National Museum of Nuclear Science & History

25: Candy Lady, New Location, Same Delicious Sweets

50: Taos Pueblo’s Living Community Has Much

and Great Service

to be Admired

26: Bosque del Apache

53: Transportation Fun with Trax

28: Rail & Bus Connections Guide

54: Route 66 Casino • Hotel

30: Weekday Schedule

PUBLISHERS

ADVERTISING REPRESENTATIVES

GRAPHIC DESIGNERS

WRITERS

MATT GANTNER WILLIAM HALSEY

SCOTT SIMMONS ERIN DE GROOT RUDY PEREZ

ASHLEY CONNER DANA BENJAMIN

MARTIN FRENTZEL MARY ANN HATCHITT

The New Mexico Rail Runner Express Magazine is published three times a year by Moon Dog Publishing and the Rio Metro Regional Transit District. The Publisher and Rio Metro Regional Transit District do not take responsibility for the accuracy or legitimacy of the RAIL RUNNER EXPRESS advertiser’s message or that of the guest writer/columnists (including photos) or any 9400 Holly Avenue NE, Ste. 202 aspect of the business operation or conduct of the advertisers in the magazine. Moon Dog Publishing reserves the right to edit all articles for accuracy and style. For more information Albuquerque, NM and advertising rates, call (505) 350-8695 or (505) 259-7969.

87122 (505) 259-7969

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FOR MORE INFORMATION VISIT WWW.RIOMETRO.ORG | WWW.TRAVELNEWMEX.COM

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join us!

Wednesday, December 6th 4:30–6:30 pm

CHRISTMAS AT THE BOSQUE FORT SUMNER HISTORIC SITE/ BOSQUE REDONDO MEMORIAL Listen to history unfold with December Letters from the Reservation, including supper and refreshments.

Saturday, December 9th 5–9 pm

LIGHT AMONG THE RUINS JEMEZ HISTORIC SITE Hundreds of farolitos, music, dances, bonfires, and horse drawn wagon rides.

Saturday, December 9th 6–9 pm

LAS NOCHES DE LAS LUMINARIAS FORT SELDEN HISTORIC SITE Lighting of over 800 luminarias, holiday music, a cozy campfire, refreshments, and fun for the whole family.

Saturday, December 24th

LUMINARIAS IN LINCOLN LINCOLN HISTORIC SITE Luminarias, Santa arrives on a longhorn steer, and hot chocolate.

NMHistoricSites.org

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Balloon Fiesta: New Mexico’s Unique Attraction There was a time when students at the University of New Mexico could hear hot air balloons floating through the clouds over the Student Union Building. That was in the 1970s when balloonists launched from the State Fairgrounds during the first mass ascensions that eventually grew into the International Balloon Fiesta.

In those days, balloons also passed over Kirtland Air Force Base with some regularity, which, as one might imagine, ruffled some military feathers.

Today, close to a half century later, Albuquerque is home to the largest ballooning event in the world, the Albuquerque International Balloon Fiesta. Some 550 balloonists from across the globe are expected to participate this year from October 7-15, and as many as 80,000 fans will leave home in the wee hours of the morning to see the crisp fall sky fill with its own universe of shapes and colors.

Those Fairgrounds launches are a distant memory because today the action occurs at Albuquerque Balloon Fiesta Park off Alameda in the northern reaches of the metro area.

What makes this event special is the famed “Albuquerque Box” which are wind patterns used to navigate the balloons and make it possible to take off and land in almost the same location.

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SHOW ME THE MONEY This event brings huge quantities of two things to the city – money and traffic.

The economic impact of close to a million visitors is a boon to city, county and state coffers. An economic Albuquerque International Balloon Fiesta is analysis of Balloon The the largest annual international event held in the Fiesta performed United States. in 2015 estimated the total impact at $177.44 million. Albuquerque brought in $4.14 million in taxes, Bernalillo county received $837,200, and the state of New Mexico was the big winner netting $5.79 million.

That year, of the 955,700 guests who attended the fiesta, 74% came from outside the Albuquerque metro and 65% came from outside the state. Their direct economic impact was $105.31 million.

One doesn’t have to be a statistician to measure the impact of all those visitors on traffic in Albuquerque- just look at the long lines of red taillights along I-25. It can be a frustration, but fortunately ballooning enthusiasts have public transportation options, one of which is the New Mexico Rail Runner Express.

“When planning a visit to Balloon Fiesta Park, our guests should consider taking the Rail Runner or the Fiesta Express Park & Ride instead of driving to the event,” says Tom Garrity, whose firm handles public relations for the Fiesta. “Over the past several years increased construction, while good for our community, has reduced the number of parking spaces available for our guests.”

For weekend trips to the Fiesta, shuttles from the Los Ranchos/Journal Center Station move Rail Runner passengers to and from the park. Tickets must be purchased in advance online from the Balloon Fiesta website, and there is also a link to it from the Rail Runner website. The train-shuttle tickets, called the Balloon Fiesta & Rail Pass, are $25 for adults 13 to 61 years; $20 for seniors 62 and older, and $12 for children 6 to 12 years. Children younger than 6 are free. The tickets include the general admission fee of $10 for a morning or evening session of the Balloon Fiesta.

The Fiesta Express Park & Ride is another option, with buses providing service from Cottonwood Mall, Intel in Rio Rancho, Coronado Center, Hoffmantown Church, and Cliff’s Amusement Park The bus only ticket is $12.

For more information, details about this year’s events and guest information, visit www.balloonfiesta.com.

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Group Travel on the Train is Fun and Affordable Bernagene Shay gives the New Mexico Rail Runner Express Group Travel Program an “A.” The teacher from North Valley Academy used the Rail Runner last school year to transport two 8th Grade classes to Santa Fe for a tour of the New Mexico Museum of History.

“This year we plan to take two trips,” Shay says. “We want to go to the history museum and the International Museum of Folk Art.” Another addition will be the inclusion of 7th Grade classes.

Part of the experience was a scavenger hunt wherein the students used their phones to photograph statues and buildings in Santa Fe. Back in the classroom, the students were required to research what they saw and then report about their significance.

STAFF IS HELPFUL

As one can imagine, traveling with a group of mid-schoolers can be noisy and distracting, but Shay says the staff of the Rail Runner helps smooth out the bumps.

“When we were getting on, we were all lined up to get on a quiet car,” she says. “The conductor quickly moved us to a different car where we would not disturb other passengers. And the conductors were very aware of us as a group and acted as tour guides, telling us which pueblo we were passing and some history about them.”

To be honest, this wasn’t Shay’s first experience with the Rail Runner. She has two 20-year-old sons who rode the train downtown regularly to attend high school. “My boys are Rail Runner experts,” she says. “It is very comfortable and affordable.”

The group rate for the North Valley Academy’s 29 students, four chaperones and two teachers to Santa Fe was $178 – only $5 per person after the group travel discount was applied.

Jenna Paulson is the Rail Runner’s Customer Service Manager, and helps teachers and others book travel on the Rail Runner. In addition to North Valley Academy, she has assisted a variety of other groups including Nex+Gen Academy in Albuquerque, the First Baptist Church in Rio Rancho, and Vacations by Rail – a professional travel company, just to name a few.

Paulson says the busiest season for group travel is February, when the New Mexico Legislature is in session and citizens want to make their opinions known in the Roundhouse.

During the state’s fiscal year that ended June 30, 2017, a total of 3,000 riders took advantage of group travel rates. The typical group is 35 people.

Schools often take advantage of the discounts offered through the Rail Runner’s Group Travel Program.

“If you are traveling with a group of 25 people or more, you get $2 off the listed price per person,” she says. The group leader receives a travel certificate, and each passenger has a ticket good for that day.

Group travel tickets must be purchased through the Rail Runner’s office in Albuquerque. Paulson may be reached at JPaulson@ mrcog-nm.gov.

BALLOONS TOO

Ken Snyder of Vacations by Rail helps train aficionados travel the world, and so far he’s helped about 100 riders visit New Mexico and Albuquerque’s International Balloon Fiesta.

“One of our travel itineraries starts in Chicago,” he says. “The passengers take the Zephyr from Chicago to Grand Junction, Colorado,” Snyder says. The California Zephyr’s full run is 2,300 miles to San Francisco, but once passengers depart in Colorado they take a motor coach to Durango where they ride the narrowgauge Durango-Silverton train.

Durango-Silverton has been served by the 3-feet-wide railroad since 1881. The 45-mile journey on the historic train passes through a mining district and scenic high peaks where golden aspens provide a stark contrast to the rolling fields of the Great Plains. After Durango, passengers return to the motor coach and travel to Santa Fe. The third and final rail leg of the tour is our own New Mexico Rail Runner Express, which takes passengers from Santa Fe to Albuquerque for two days of the International Balloon Fiesta in October.

“And then they leave via the Albuquerque International Sunport,” Snyder says, “and they fly all over the world to wherever home is.”

A group of students waits to board the train at the Sandoval/US 550 Rail Runner Station. www.riometro.org | www.travelnewmex.com | FALL / WINTER 2017 8

Vacations by Rail offers an extensive web of travel opportunities across the United States, Canada and Europe. Learn more at www.vacationsbyrail.com.

The Pueblo of Jemez “This is the Place” Looking for the perfect place to escape the city? Located along the beautiful Jemez Mountains Scenic Byway is the Pueblo of Jemez Welcome Center, the gateway to “The Jemez”.

The Pueblo of Jemez Welcome Center houses the Museum of History and Culture. This enlightening exhibit shows the origins of the Jemez people through the displayed pottery, artifacts, and timelines.

While visiting the Pueblo of Jemez Welcome Center one can learn about the locally created traditional crafts, visit with local artists, and shop from a variety of traditional souvenir items, which are available for purchase in the gift shop.

Experience the Red Rocks Hiking Trail through a 1.5 mile guided hike into the majestic Red Rocks directly across from the Pueblo of Jemez Welcome Center. Learn what makes Red Rocks unique and its historical importance to the area.

A part of the center also serves as a U.S. Forest Service office, where visitors to the Jemez mountains may purchase fuel, wood, and Christmas tree permits. The Forest Service portion of the center is open Friday through Sunday.

Walatowa, meaning “This is the Place”, has been home to the people of Jemez Pueblo for centuries dating back to the initial migration to Canyon de San Diego between A.D. 1275 and

RAIL RUNNER EXPRESS

1350. Although the village is closed to nontribal members, with the exception of feast days, one can gather an abundance of knowledge about the Jemez people and their culture by stopping by the Pueblo of Jemez Welcome Center located north of the Pueblo of Jemez on NM Highway 4.

Feast Days are a traditional time for visitors to experience the Pueblo of Jemez and other Native American communities in New Mexico. Jemez has two feast days: Aug. 2, which is the traditional Pecos Pueblo Fiesta, adopted when Jemez accepted the remaining members of the once thriving Pecos Pueblo; and Nov. 12, the day recognizing San Diego, the patron saint of the Jemez Pueblo. Before visiting, please study Pueblo etiquette, available online at the Pueblo of Jemez Welcome Center website at www.jemezpueblo.com.

The annual Open Air Market is held the 2nd weekend of October at the Pueblo of Jemez Welcome Center. While attending the event, visitors can experience traditional dances and music as they mingle among the artists and fill their stomachs with authentic cuisine.

The staff at the Pueblo of Jemez Welcome Center is ready to share their knowledge and stories. Stop by and visit.

Located on State Road 4 approximately one hour northwest of Albuquerque (55 Miles) or one hour and twenty minutes southwest of Santa Fe.

Native American Art | History Museum | Souvenirs | Call for Guided Tours Gateway to the Valles Caldera on Hwy. 4

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Chama: New Mexico’s Mecca for Winter Fun

RAIL RUNNER EXPRESS

One of the best-kept secrets in New Mexico is the enchanting little village of Chama at the top of the state. It is the western home of the Cumbres & Toltec steam railroad, the home of great trout fishing and horseback riding in its summer meadows.

Oh, yeah, and it’s an absolute mecca for winter sports, too!

Cross-country skiing, snowmobiling, snow-shoeing—everything but downhill skiing is abundantly available in Chama’s gorgeous natural open country. Every Martin Luther King weekend, in January, Chama hosts the Chama Chile Ski Classic, a cross-country ski event.

There are races and special events occurring all weekend. There’s also a fabulous hot air balloon rally the last weekend in February.

Chama, with its lively Western-style business district, several hotels and cozy dining establishments, is located on U.S. 84 (take the “Chama Highway” out of Española) in the beautiful and diverse Chama Valley near the Colorado border. The valley, created and traversed by the Rio Chama, is situated in the southern Rockies at 7,860 feet elevation, with nearby Brazos Peaks offering mountain vistas and scenic gorges.

The valley’s human history is rich with stories of toil and innovation, from the indigenous Indian people to Hispanic settlers to trappers and latter-day business people attracted by the varied resources.

Winter especially offers breathtaking beauty in the Rio Chama Valley. Days are sunny; nights are clear and filled with stars. In the valley, the combination of bright sunshine and lack of humidity make for surprisingly comfortable days.

In the surrounding mountain passes, you’ll find a reliable base of snow. The gentle terrain of the mesas makes for perfect cross-

Photo courtesy of Chama Valley Chamber of Commerce.

country skiing, snowmobiling and snowshoeing. Groomed trails and marked tracks crisscross easily accessible public lands. This area has five yurts available for those wishing to spend the night. In colder years, visitors and residents gather for fine ice fishing on Heron Reservoir.

For your safety and comfort, Chama locals warn to always check with the appropriate ranger district before heading out; never travel alone, and make sure you are adequately prepared.

For more information go to Chama Valley Chamber of Commerce at 1-800-477-0149. For yurt information go to www.skichama.com.

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Haunted Places Along the Rails Enchanted is a term frequently used to describe New Mexico, but there are those who believe “bewitched,” or “haunted” is a better description. Along the New Mexico Rail Runner Express route from Santa Fe to Belen there are places where ghost hunters gather to seek spirits, and whether one believes or not, these ghost seekers often have fascinating tales to tell.

Peter Sinclaire, a professional tour guide, says his Original Santa Fe Ghost Tour is really a storytelling tour, not an effort to prove or disprove the existence of spirits in some extra-sensory gap between life as we know it and the next world.

His stories are entertaining, and visiting the landmarks of old Santa Fe certainly is worth a few hours and $16 on a warm summer evening when the hotel bars and restaurants in the City Different are bulging with chatty guests.

SECRETO Sinclaire’s tour starts at the Hotel St. Francis, just blocks from the Plaza, where the first order of business is asking his ghost walkers whether they believe in ghosts or not. Skeptics are as welcome as true believers, and for the next two hours they will tramp together through the streets to $200-a-night hotels in search of any orbs, spirits, or paranormal mischief lurking in the ancient city.

The spacious lobby of the Hotel St. Francis includes the Secreto Lounge, a watering hole which occasionally is visited by one of the hotel’s resident spirits – The Lady in White. The Lady has been known to prevent service of certain drinks by fracturing enough glasses that bartenders give up and pour something else. After this introduction to the hotel, Sinclaire leads his guests to a window on the south side of the building where spirits have been seen and, in some cases, photographed.

A child-sized apparition is seen here as well, but nothing mysterious materializes on this night, and the ghost walkers leave the St. Francis to pursue other possibilities. La Fonda reportedly has resident spirits and Sinclaire shows his group a photograph of a column of bright lights, perhaps all that remains of a gun salesman who dived into an old well that once sat in the hotel’s original patio now contained in La Plazuela restaurant. The gun dealer, Sinclaire says, took his life after losing all the money in his saddlebags playing cards, some of which was his commission and some belonged to his employer.

The most famous of Santa Fe’s ghosts, however, is Julia Staab, a grieving woman whose life was forever changed by the loss of a child. Her husband, Abraham Staab, was an enormously wealthy Santa Fe businessman who built a three-story palace, most of which is now in the resort and spa “La Posada.”

Julia is reported to make her presence known through toilet tricks and swinging Ghost Guide Peter Sinclaire chandeliers in the remaining two stories has photos showing a ghost in this window at the Hotel of her ornate home. She has been St. Francis in Santa Fe. featured on Unsolved Mysteries and a Photo by Martin Frentzel.

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great-great granddaughter, Hannah Nordhaus, has written a book about the woman who died in 1896. Sinclaire tells his guests he himself has witnessed the swinging chandelier, and he ends his tour encouraging them to keep their minds open to all possibilities before collecting his cash.

Learn more about Peter Sinclaire’s tour at The Staab home in Santa Fe, now La Posada, was theoriginalsantafe once three stories as seen in this picture, but a fire destroyed the top floor. Julia Staab is Santa Fe’s ghosttour.weebly.com. most famous ghost and reportedly still visits.

OLD ALBUQUERQUE Photo by Martin Frentzel.

The Wool Warehouse, KiMo Theater and most restaurants in Old Town provide ghost hunters with the opportunity to search for spirits. Albucreepy’s Downtown Ghost Walk is offered Friday and Saturday nights. Tickets are available online at albucreepy.com. At 10 on Saturday nights the “Red Light Edition” is offered, and you must be 21. The walk starts with a pint of beer at the Back Alley Draft House then travels through the old brothel district called Hell’s Half Acre.

For Old Town spirits and orbs, visit www.toursofoldtown.com. Due to this neighborhood’s age, ghost walkers visit hidden cemeteries and hanging trees.

Even the administrative office for the Rail Runner at 809 Copper NW has been known to experience paranormal activity. Augusta Meyers, communications manager at the Mid-Regional Council of Governments, says the original home was a show place in its day, and the first owner enjoyed sitting in a chair and watching the activities in Robinson Park across the street. A former colleague of Meyers used that office and reported her chair moving overnight to that window as if the first owner is still watching.

BELEN’S HARVEY HOUSE The Belen Public Library System manages the Harvey House Museum in Belen, an old railroad workers’ reading room which reportedly still contains spirits of Harvey Girls or other visitors. It has been searched by professional ghost-hunting groups like Purple Sage Paranormal.

Frances Zeller, a docent at the building constructed in 1910, says two ghost tours are being offered in October as fund-raisers for the museum. “The tours are by reservation only and seating is limited,” she says. The donation is $20 and the tours are Oct. 27 & 28.

For more information, call the Harvey House Museum at (505) 861-0581.

Lowell Observatory - Mars Hill Sky-loving New Mexicans – there’s a great reason to head west! The world-class Lowell Observatory is about one mile west of downtown Flagstaff, atop the aptly named Mars Hill. Founded in 1894 by Percival Lowell, the Observatory is an active research institution with a long history of educating people about astronomy.

Once on Mars Hill, visitors enter through the 6,500-squarefoot Steele Visitor Center to an interactive exhibit hall, McAllister Space Theatre, the Giclas Lecture Hall, and an awesome astronomy gift shop. The exhibit hall features Space Guard Academy, an interactive display that allows visitors to experience cutting-edge asteroid research and science.

Guided Space Theatre programs introduce concepts of astronomy, ongoing Lowell Observatory research, and highlights of the night sky. The lecture hall’s musical multimedia presentations explore astronomy, space, and the Observatory’s history. Boston businessman and founder Percival Lowell studied Mars here and postulated on the existence of a ninth planet (Pluto was later discovered in 1930 by Clyde Tombaugh).

Weather permitting, visitors can experience the celestial view from the 24-inch Clark Telescope and the McAllister, a 16-inch refractor telescope. Day and evening viewings are

LOWELL

RAIL RUNNER EXPRESS

This is a color composite by Deidre Hunter and her collaborators of neutral hydrogen, visual (V-band) light, and far ultraviolet light.

offered year-round, but call ahead for a schedule. Telescope domes are unheated, so dress for the outdoors.

From downtown Flagstaff, take Route 66/Santa Fe Avenue west until it merges into Mars Hill. For more information about hours and events log onto www.lowell.edu or call (928) 774-3358.

OBSERVATORY DAYTIME TOURS TELESCOPE VIEWING INTERACTIVE EXHIBITS FAMILY FUN!

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New Mexico Bureau of Geology & Mineral Resources Established 1889

New Mexico Tech, Socorro, New Mexico 87801 www.geoinfo.nmt.edu

It’s not about where you are, it’s about where you can go!

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Helping Students on their Journey to Higher Ed For tourists, the New Mexico Rail Runner Express is a journey into the past – Indian nations that have endured our droughts and heat for millennia, and Catholic communities created as much by church as state.

Commuters riding to jobs in Santa Fe and Los Alamos see the present state of New Mexico affairs, but for students the train is a ride toward the future. Fortunately, the Rail Runner’s tracks pass by educational opportunities from Santa Fe in the north to southerly Valencia County.

TRAIN KIDS For Ana Rael of Albuquerque, the Rail Runner was a gateway to a bright future in New York City. The 2017 graduate of the New Mexico School for the Arts in Santa Fe will be attending Barnard College this fall, and the train was part of her journey.

“We love the Rail Runner,” Ana said in her “curtain speech,” a farewell required of graduating students. “I have made some of my greatest friendships with train kids due to our shared passion for New Mexico School for the Arts … and the fact that we are stuck together for three hours a day.”

In 2019, the school will be moving to the former Sanbusco Shopping Center just blocks from the Rail Runner’s Santa Fe Depot Station. Cece Derringer, the school’s director, says proximity to the Depot played a role in choosing the location. A total of 10 “train kids” ride the rails now, but the move eventually will allow enrollment to increase from 200 to 300 students.

Students at Santa Fe Indian School (SFIS) are regulars on the Rail Runner. “On long weekends, we have as many as 200 students riding the train to go home,” says Stephanie Garcia, the Student Living Secretary at SFIS. Part of her job is getting parental permission slips signed to allow the students to ride the train. Some of the students ride as far as Los Lunas.

“SFIS students wear their identification badges and are allowed by SFIS to use the train on Friday afternoon to return to their homes for the weekend and return on Sunday evening to the dorms to begin school on Monday morning,” Garcia says. Many of the Santa Fe Indian School staff commute daily on the train. The Rail Runner is a popular mode of transportation for the school according to SFIS Superintendent Roy Herrera.

New Mexico School for the Deaf has 32 students and several teachers riding the Rail Runner, says Eric James, director of transportation for NMSD. “The students especially enjoy riding the upper floor of the double-decker cars, seeing the beautiful countryside,” James reports.

Most of the School for the Deaf students ride from the Los Ranchos/Journal Center and Downtown Bernalillo stations, about 55 miles each way. “We are all very grateful to have the Rail Runner,” says James.

A SUSTAINABLE FUTURE New Mexico School for the Arts is moving to Sanbusco Shopping Center in 2019 in proximity to the Santa Fe Depot Train Station.

Photo by Martin Frentzel.

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Unemployment may be high in our state, but it’s not because Santa Fe Community College (SFCC) isn’t doing something about it. The school values community involvement and education equally. Students have the

www.riometro.org | www.travelnewmex.com | FALL / WINTER 2017

opportunity to learn construction or culinary skills, work on projects designed by potential employers, or pursue baccalaureate and master’s degrees from complementary colleges and universities.

The School of Trades, Technology, Sustainability and Professional Services provides an extensive opportunity to learn about solar energy, biofuels, sustainable technologies, and water and wastewater operations. Those sustainability Santa Fe Community College stresses sustainability, and 80% of graduates gain students may get hands-on employment or advance to higher degrees. training on the 1.5-megawatt Photo by Martin Frentzel. solar array that generates most of the school’s electricity. The school’s lawns are irrigated with treated wastewater.

President Randy Grissom says SFCC has approximately 6,200 creditearning students, 4,000 to 5,000 students in non-credit classes, and many more in adult education classes, which include learning English as a second language. High School students taking dual-credit classes boost the total enrollment to about 15,000, and their ages range from 9 to 90, he says.

Although SFCC is indeed a two-year school, the Higher Education Center provides access to degrees from four-year schools like New Mexico Highlands University, New Mexico State University and the University of New Mexico. Northern New Mexico College also is now an education partner.

Rebecca Estrada, executive director of the Santa Fe Higher Education Center at SFCC, says the success of SFCC is based in the relevancy of its programs. With the collapse of the College of Santa Fe, those managing the community college surveyed employers, students and government leaders to determine what programs would produce the workforce that was needed.

Today, the Higher Education Center works with New Mexico Highlands to produce business, criminal justice, education, and social work graduates, Estrada says. Working with Northern New Mexico College, the Higher Education Center also offers programs in cybersecurity and telecommunications, business administration, project management, and psychology.

During peak commute times Monday through Friday, students may access SFCC via Santa Fe Trails Route 22 from the Rail Runner’s NM 599 Station.

PREPARATION FOR LIFE At the southern end of the public transportation-scholastic web is the University of New Mexico-Valencia County, served by five Rio Metro buses daily.

John Lechel, public information officer at the school, says approximately 1,200 fulltime students attend the two-year school. “Our major emphasis is preparing students for a four-year college and for life as well,” Lechel says.

Students who earn certificates and associates degrees from UNM Valencia County may find job placement as well, he says.

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Join Us, As We Make History The first thing that jumps out upon entering the Belén Harvey House Museum is the stunning oak wainscot trimming the walls and door frames of what once was the century-old building’s lunchroom. A train rumbles by, shaking the large room to its core.

It’s easy to imagine stepping off an old, steam-powered Santa Fe rail car for a fine meal and the world’s best coffee.

In no time at all, a friendly docent offers a tour through the museum that fills both floors where the Harvey Girls, in their black-andwhite uniforms, worked and lived in the early 1900s.

Belén’s Harvey House is one of the last Harvey Houses still standing and open to the public in New Mexico. So many of them, including Albuquerque’s magnificent Alvarado Hotel, were razed after passenger train service declined and Americans’ love affair with automobiles forced them to close.

Built in 1910, the Mission-Revival style building was designed by a Santa Fe architect from Chicago. Myron Church originally had designed a grand hotel for Belén, but cuts in the railway’s budget resulted in a smaller eating house being built. Although it was small, it was the grandest building project the town had seen and its services were beyond compare.

the West. If not settling it, he certainly helped civilize the West through good, fresh food delivered daily by rail and impeccable service with a smile.

Belén’s eating house served 45 people around the large pink Belén Harvey House lunchroom in marble lunch counter and another the 1920s 64 guests in the formal dining room. One passenger train, The Scout, stopped in Belen around lunch time each day. In addition to the travelers, who only had half an hour to eat, railroad men were regular lunchroom guests, some leaving nice tips for his favorite Harvey Girl. Many marriages resulted from these meals. Will Rodgers once remarked that half the male babies born in those days were named “Fred,” the other half, “Harvey.”

Fred Harvey began his food-service empire in Kansas City, Missouri, in the 1870s. Eighty-some Harvey Houses later, many historians credit Harvey and his iconic Harvey Girls with settling

Belén residents frequented the lunchroom on a regular basis as well. One mother brought her daughter to the Harvey House once a week, for a dress-up dinner and long-time residents remember ending their high school dates at the horseshoe-shaped marble counter. Suit coats were required for male guests in the dining room. Several were kept on hand for men who came without one.

Still, some locals ate there. It was the site of business banquets, wedding dinners and the Rotary Club met there every Wednesday.

Take your education to the next level at Santa Fe’s

For Belén, it all ended in 1939. The Great Depression crippled America’s economy and faster trains with fancy dining cars made stopping for meals at smaller Harvey Houses obsolete. Bigger hotels closed when people started driving, or flying, cross country.

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Today, an original Fred Harvey Company coffee urn, Santa Fe china in various patterns, Fred Harvey silverware, menus and Harvey Girl uniforms help tell the story of this bygone era when a three-course halibut steak dinner cost 60 cents. Harvey House chefs were famous for their culinary skills, following recipes that were created in the Kansas City headquarters.

Belén’s building re-opened as a Santa Fe Reading Room in 1941 to give railroad men a place to rest for a few hours or spend the night. Some Harvey Girls briefly returned a few years later to serve meals to World War II troop trains. By the 1970s, there weren’t as many men needed to run the diesel trains and the old building’s age began to show. In 1980, it was boarded up and put on a schedule for demolition.

People rallied together, saved the building and, in 1983, the Santa Fe Railway gave it to the City of Belén. It became a community center, with non-profits using the upstairs for offices and the empty lunchroom being used as an all-purpose room for events ranging from yoga classes to public gatherings. The Valencia County Historical Society turned the dining room into a museum in 1985, just in time for the building’s 75th anniversary. Over the years, all the non-profits have left, allowing the museum to flourish.

To visit the Harvey House by train, take the New Mexico Rail Runner Express south to the Belen Station. After exiting the train, take a short walk south over the pedestrian overpass to the intersection of 1st St. and Dalies Ave.

Sadie’s: New Mexico Soul Food Old and young Albuquerqueans, with discriminating palates when it comes to their beloved chile, categorize Sadie’s either as a family gathering place, an addiction, a guilty pleasure a place for celebrations, or all the above, and then some. People readily admit to seeking Sadie’s as comfort food in times of strife, often salivating as they talk (or even think) about a heaping plate of Papitas Fritas Con Frijoles smothered with red chile, aged cheddar cheese, and a lettuce, tomato and onion garnish. Add a scoop of chile con queso, and brace yourself for a little slice of heaven. Carnivores can experience this same decadent indulgence with a patty of hamburger topping the cubed potatoes, pinto beans, and chile con queso by ordering the Roberto Special. Unless you split it, expect to take home leftovers (which fry up deliciously with eggs for an awesome morning burrito) because Sadie’s portions are huge.

This is New Mexico soul food, as natural and pure as the landscape. Simple, colorful, and stunning, it beckons you back again and again. And once it gets into your system, expect to develop the habit.

Sadie’s appetizers are all worth sampling (you’re taking home leftovers anyway). The Red Chile Tostadas and Red Chile Potato Chips offer a spicy crunchy kick. The Sopapilla Sliders are a great appetizer for a table, or a meal for one. And, you’re not going to get fried Green Chile Strips like this anywhere else, so dive in! Sadie’s serves salads, sandwiches, vegetarian and gluten-free options, and an excellent kid’s menu.

RAIL RUNNER EXPRESS

In more than a half-century of living in Albuquerque, I have never had nor heard of a bad meal at Sadie’s. It was the early 1950’s when the fledgling restaurant’s legendary founder and namesake made batches of red and green chile daily and served tacos, burritos, enchiladas, huevos rancheros and more to the steadily growing number of hungry, loyal patrons who stood in line in the tiny, never-empty nine-seat restaurant at 2nd St. and Osuna in the North Valley. After a couple of moves to larger venues that ultimately proved not to be large enough, Sadie’s built its present, sprawling facility at 6230 4th St NW in Los Ranchos de Albuquerque.

With two additional locations in Albuquerque at 15 Hotel Circle NE, near Eubank and Lomas, and 5400 Academy NE (east of San Mateo), Sadie’s never disappoints. The service is swift and food is served hot; portions are plentiful, and prices affordable.

The bar makes a mean margarita, mojito, strawberry daiquiri, or straight cocktail, and also has a nice selection of local craft beer and wine.

Sadie’s is not a place to go if you do not like people. It is popular. Plan on waiting for a table during peak hours. It’ll be worth the wait. It’s been voted Reader’s Choice Best Mexican Restaurant four times in a row by the Albuquerque Journal.

This Albuquerque dynasty’s famed salsa (available in grocery stores) is not for the uninitiated. If you’ve got relatives visiting from the Midwest, do NOT let them start out with a big scoop of salsa on that tortilla chip! And if you do, order them some milk.

ACADEMY LOCATION 5400 Academy Road Northeast Albuquerque, NM 87109 (505) 821-3388 SADIE’S EAST LOCATION 15 Hotel Circle NE Albuquerque, NM 87123 (505) 296-6940 4TH STREET LOCATION 6230 Fourth Street NW Los Ranchos de Albuquerque, NM 87107 (505) 345-5339

www.SadiesofNewMexico.com www.riometro.org | www.travelnewmex.com | FALL / WINTER 2017

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Old Town Albuquerque

Paint. Drink Wine. Have Fun!

Kelly Jo Kuchar

Just off 4th Street in the Village of Los Ranchos de Albuquerque, there is a one-of-a-kind, popular, must-see factory outlet gallery that features stunning pottery and ceramic creations for purchase, and a place for would-be artists to test their wings. The brainchild of owner and celebrated artist Kelly Jo Kuchar, Kelly Jo Designs has been handcrafting functional artwork in New Mexico for more than 25 years.

With a long history of pottery production, this extensive and unique collection of ceramic plates, bowls and vases reflect our stunning New Mexican landscape and bright colors. An elegant addition to any home, a perfect gift to be treasured for years to come, or a personalized wedding gift (with ample lead-time), Kelly Jo and her skilled artisans create these unique treasures, which are sold and shipped all over the United States to galleries, wineries, stores, and to private collectors.

Recently, Kelly Jo was commissioned to design and paint 170 tile murals, which are installed in Santa Fe’s historic hotel, the newly renovated La Fonda.

In recent years, Kelly Jo and her staff decided to share the fun, joy and satisfaction of creativity with the public by creating Kelly Jo Designs by Wine, an interactive sip and paint experience, which has created quite a buzz in Albuquerque and nearby communities among people who aspire to create art. Classes are offered daily and feature a variety of distinctively New Mexican painting choices. There is also a beautiful patio oasis for artists to drop in to paint their own pottery. The patio features a full wine bar, too.

One class participant admitted that before receiving a gift certificate to Kelly Jo Designs by Wine, a fresh canvas sat in her closet for 15 years because she had no idea how to start painting.

“With the step-by-step guidance from instructors at Kelly Jo’s, I have now created many paintings, losing myself entirely in the process and I love the way creating art has shown me a new way of ‘seeing’.”

There is nothing intimidating, and everything encouraging, about the process of creating art here. This comfortable and upbeat environment features long tables with easels set up at each work station. Participants are advised about brushes and told how many pumps of the colorful paint to put on their paper plate palette.

The room is cool, bright and spacious. An added bonus is that the classroom shares the same building with the working production studio, so guests can even take a tour during their breaks. The instructor carefully guides participants step-by-step, from start to finish, on how to create their paintings. Music plays in the background throughout, and small breaks are taken to allow each paint layer to dry before adding the next feature. This is affordable, wholesome, creative fun that will broaden your horizons, change your perspective, and have you looking for sales on acrylic paint and canvases to continue a wonderful new hobby.

Enjoy the new outdoor wine bar patio and explore all that Kelly Jo Designs has to offer - a perfect venue to shop for art, create art, enjoy wine or schedule your next private party. Kelly Jo Designs

by Wine, 6829 4th St. NW, Los Ranchos de Albuquerque, NM 87107, 505.341.1893, kelly@kellyjodesignsbywine.com www.riometro.org | www.travelnewmex.com | FALL / WINTER 2017

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Old Town Albuquerque

Palate Pleasing Menu at the Church Street Café!

You can work up a powerful hunger shopping, sightseeing or just soaking up the therapeutic ambiance of Albuquerque’s Historic and quaint Old Town Plaza. Sampling the local fare is half of the fun- but not everybody can eat everything, so it’s important to know how a restaurant can handle special dietary concerns.

Our four-top table of locals that settled into the Church Street Café is a highly critical, vocal group notoriously tough to satisfy. The group included one chile-addict with a gluten intolerance, another chile - addict who can’t handle the hot stuff anymore, a person with a garlic allergy who is intolerant of anything spicy, and, the fourth, who loves Mexican food, has no sensitivities and is hard to fill up.

We all enjoyed the chips and salsa, and supplemented it with an order of perfectly seasoned, creamy guacamole and a delicious order of chile con queso. There was no talking at all and the appetizer plates were empty in less than five minutes.

The Sangria Margarita was heralded as ‘crisp and refreshing.’ After passing around the Lime Agave Margarita we all agreed we should have ordered a pitcher. The Bloody Mary was zesty and delicious. The bar offers a good selection of cocktails, beer and wine.

The “Q” salad, a delicious concoction sure to please!

Our gluten intolerant friend enjoyed chips, salsa, guacamole, chile con queso, flat red cheese enchiladas with a fried egg and extra garnish. She gushed that the latte was bold and strong, much to her liking. She described the red chile, “a perfect consistency, thick with great strong chile flavor, slightly sweet, well-blended, and not too hot.”

As a chile addict who can’t handle the hot stuff anymore, I dived into a creamy and delicious cup of Green Chile Chicken Soup with just enough chile heat to make it interesting. The Handmade Tamale Plate with pork entrée was pure Heaven, and yielded enough for a significant portion to take home (and they reheated perfectly).

Our garlic-intolerant friend was quite specific explaining to the server about her allergy. The server was very accommodating, and inquired in the kitchen about how things were prepared. The allergy proved to be no impediment and she fully enjoyed chips and guacamole, and was delighted with her albuQuerQue Salad: the “Q” Salad. This scrumptious concoction featured dried cranberries, raisins, bleu cheese crumbles, and mixed greens garnished with fruit and nuts, and she added the grilled chicken.

Our friend with the hearty appetite pronounced his cup of Posole, ‘like my Grandmother used to make.” His combination plate included a pork tamale, a chile relleno, and a beef enchilada with green chile. He topped it off with a couple of sopapillas and honey, and pronounced, “Man that was good! I’m full!”

We shared three deserts, Natillas, Flan and a Stuffed Sopapilla with ice cream. My personal favorite was the creamy, caramel Flan, but all three deserts complemented the meal, and were very tasty.

Appetizers, beverages, salads, sandwiches, entrees, and deserts – there is, in fact, something for every palate at Church Street Café in Historic Old Town Plaza. Enjoy a meal in the cozy dining rooms, spacious great room, or on the quaint patio.

OPEN DAILY 8:00 AM - 9:00 PM (8:00 AM - 4:00 PM SUNDAY) (505) 247-8522 • OLD TOWN • 2111 CHURCH STREET NW, ALBUQUERQUE, NM 87104

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Dine outside in the garden patio under the grand old cottonwood or inside with the cozy interior.

Old Town Albuquerque

Candy Lady, New Location, Same Delicious Sweets and Great Service

After being in one Old Town location for more than 35 years, the Candy Lady moved a few years ago to a new locale in Old Town at 424 San Felipe NW, and continues to be among Albuquerque’s most popular sweet shops. Don’t be fooled by imitators. There is only one Candy Lady!

The Candy Lady’s business is firmly based on two things: great candy and great service. “We make 21 flavors of fudge, with and without chile, truffles, turtles with caramel and nuts, fresh chocolate dipped strawberries and raspberries, and sugar free chocolates. We also carry 60 varieties of black licorice,” says owner Debbie Ball. “When people come in, we greet them, give them samples and enjoy every opportunity to visit with them. I don’t think anybody can beat us for customer service. That’s why people come back.”

The Candy Lady has gained fame as a one-stop shop for items based on the famed “Breaking Bad” television series, including crushed blue crystal candy, T-shirts, coffee cups, the Heisenburg hat, custom PEZ dispensers, lapel pins and more.

As always, The Candy Lady retains its X-rated confections that earned the shop widespread media coverage in its early years. (Remember when North Valley churchgoers expressed their objections by picketing in front of the store in January 1982.)

Balloon Fiesta is one of Debbie’s favorite times of year in Albuquerque!

After the balloons land, visit the Candy Lady in Old Town and browse our delectable selection of sweets.

Stop in The Candy Lady and say “hello” to Debbie, who is almost always working at the store and giving customers her special perspectives on life and chocolate.

Scrumptious chocolate covered strawberries in white or dark chocolate. www.riometro.org | www.travelnewmex.com | FALL / WINTER 2017

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Socorro Events

RAIL RUNNER EXPRESS

Kittrel Park

1ST SATURDAY EVENTS The first Saturday of each month our historic Hammel Museum is open to the public from 9 am - noon.

Karl G. Jansky Very Large Array conducts guided tours from 11 am – 5 pm.

New Mexico Tech hosts 1st Saturday Star Party at Etscorn Observatory at 8 pm.

FARMERS MARKET- Every Sat. 9:00 AM - Sellout In Socorro’s Historic Plaza. Lots of vendors with vegetables, fruit and chile roasting is available.

TRINITY SITE OPEN TO THE PUBLIC- Oct. 7th 8:00 AM - 2:00 PM. The historic site of the 1st atomic bomb test. White Sands Missile Range, Bingham, NM

In person it is even more stunning.

SOCORROFEST- Oct. 13th - 14th. Let your toes tap to great NM music in Socorro’s Historic Old Town Plaza. Lots of great food and NM brews and wines.

NMRA FINALS- Oct. 14th - 15th. Join us for all the exciting competition at the Socorro Rodeo & Sports Complex. Bring the kids for all the fun.

ENCHANTED SKIES STAR PARTY- Oct. 17th - 21st The ESSP offers a unique astronomy experience in the Southwestern US, in the Cibola National Forest, just outside Magdalena, NM. The program is designed for the serious amateur astronomer.

FESTIVAL OF THE CRANES- Nov. 14th- 19th Located at the Bosque del Apache National Wildlife Refuge, this annual event celebrates the Winter migration of the Sandhill Cranes. Avid birders from around the world flock to the refuge to view the spectacular event.

LUMINARIAS & ART STROLL ON THE PLAZA, HOLIDAY ELECTRIC LIGHT PARADE- Saturday Dec. 2nd 4:00 PM- 8:00 PM Socorro’s Historic Plaza. The Christmas event features entertainment, food, and beautiful luminaria art stroll. The Socorro Youth Center Choir will serenade you and Santa Claus will be there.

2018 EVENTS CLINT BENJAMIN ROPE FOR HOPE- Feb. 17th18th. Join us at the Socorro Rodeo & Sports Complex for this all day event. This will be fun for all ages.

BATTLES OF SOCORRO CIVIL WATR REENACTMENT- Feb. 23rd- 25th, Escondida Lake. A battle reenactment in which Brigadier General Henry H. Sibley led his force of 2,500 men in hopes of cutting communications between Fort Craig and military headquarters in Santa Fe.

www.Socorronm.gov https://www.facebook.com/SocorroNM www.riometro.org | www.travelnewmex.com | FALL / WINTER 2017

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Santa Fe Trails Route 4 (Southside) - To the Santa Fe Convention Center, City and County offices, Santa Fe High School and Santa Fe Place Mall.

South Capitol Shuttle - Weekdays to St. Vincent Hospital, the Rodeo Business Park and the District 5 DOT office.

NM Park & Ride Blue Route Weekdays to Santa Fe, Pojoaque and Los Alamos.

NM Park & Ride Red Route Weekdays to Espanola, Pojoaque and Santa Fe. NM Park & Ride Orange Route Weekdays between Las Vegas and Santa Fe. NCRTD Route 160 - Weekdays between Santa Fe, Española and Santa Clara Pueblo.

Santa Fe Trails Route 2 (Cerrillos Road) To the West Capitol Complex, the New Mexico School for the Deaf and Santa Fe Place Mall. (connect here to SF Outlet Mall (Route 26).

South Capitol Station

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Santa Fe Trails Route 4 (Southside) To the Santa Fe Convention Center, City and County offices, Santa Fe Place Mall and Santa Fe High School.

Santa Fe Trails Route M (Museum Hill) Access to the Museum of Spanish Art, Museum of Indian Arts & Culture, Museum of International Folk Art and the Wheelwright Museum of the American Indian.

NCRTD Taos Express - To Española and the Town of Taos.

Saturdays and Sundays only.

Buffalo Thunder Resort & Casino Shuttle Shuttle stops on Guadalupe right next to Tomasita’s Restaurant.

Shuttle meets train daily.

Santa Fe Trails Route 2 (Cerrillos Road) To the West Capitol Complex, the New Mexico School for the Deaf and Santa Fe Place Mall. (connect here to SF Outlet Mall (Route 26).

Santa Fe Pick Up - To the Santa Fe Plaza, Downtown Santa Fe, Canyon Road and Museum Hill. Operates daily. Turn left when exiting the train to the shuttle and look for the red truck sign.

Santa Fe Depot Station

All our bus connections are FREE unless otherwise noted

ABQ RIDE Route 766 - (Rapid Ride Red Line) Express route to access Old Town, the ABQ BioPark, UNM, Nob Hill and Uptown.

Located in front of the building.

Downtown Albuquerque Station

ABQ RIDE Route 157 - To Cottonwood Mall, Coronado Center, ABQ Uptown and Kirkland Air Force Base.

Montaño Station

ABQ RIDE Route 251 - Weekdays to the Journal Center business district, Century 24 Theatre, Cottonwood Mall, Intel and Rio Rancho.

Rio Metro Route 505-B - Weekdays to Albuquerque, Los Lunas and Belen before the first southbound train run.

Los Ranchos/Journal Center Station

Sandia Resort & Casino Shuttle Meets every train, seven days a week.

Sandia Pueblo Station

Rio Metro Route 202 - Weekedays to Bernalillo, Rio Rancho, Santa Ana Pueblo, Algodones, Santo Domingo Pueblo, Cochiti Pueblo and the Town of Cohiti Lake.

Rio Metro Route 204 - Weekdays to Bernalillo, northern Rio Rancho, Zia Pueblo, San Ysidro, Jemez Pueblo and Jemez Springs.

Route 505-A - Weekday express service to Downtown Albuquerque before the first southbound train of the morning.

Santa Ana Star Casino Shuttle Meets every train, seven days a week.

Hollywood Casino Shuttle at San Felipe Meets northbound trains 7 days a week. Call for shuttle times.

Rio Metro Route 201 - Weekdays to Bernalillo and Enchanted Hills.

Sandoval County/US 550 Station

Rio Metro Route 202 - Weekdays to Bernalillo, Rio Rancho, Santa Ana Pueblo, Algodones, Santo Domingo Pueblo, Cochiti Pueblo and the town of Cochiti Lake.

Hollywood Casino Shuttle at San Felipe Meets southbound trains 7 days a week. Call for shuttle times.

Kewa Station at Santo Domingo Pueblo

Rail & Bus Connections Guide

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South Capitol

Santa Fe Depot

SYSTEM MAP

Rio Metro Route 206 - Weekday service for Belen residents to connect to the Rail Runner station and other nearby work centers during peak commute times.

Rio Metro Dial-A-Ride - Weekday curb-to-curb service in Valencia County. Rides must be requested by 12 NOON one business day prior.

Call 505-352-3595. $1 each way.

Rio Metro Route 504 - Weekdays to Downtown ABQ. Departs the station at 3:55 a.m. Bus is timed to meet the nortbound train from Downtown ABQ at 5:02 a.m.

Socorro Shuttle - Service to Socorro Weekdays and Sundays.

Belen Station

Rio Metro Route 207 - Weekday service for Los Lunas residents to connect to the Rail Runner station and other nearby work centers during peak commute times. Connects to Route 209.

Rio Metro Route 209 - Weekdays between Los Lunas Transportation Center and the UNM Valencia Campus. Connects to Route 207.

Rio Metro Dial-A-Ride - Weekday curb-to-curb service in Valencia County. Rides must be requested by 12 NOON one business day prior.

Call 505-352-3595. $1 each way.

Rio Metro Route 504 - Weekdays to Downtown ABQ. Departs the station at 4:15 a.m. Bus is timed to meet the nortbound train from Downtown ABQ at 5:02 a.m.

Rio Metro Route 505-B - Weekdays to Belen before the first southbound train.

Los Lunas

Isleta Hotel & Casino Shuttle - A bus meets every train, seven days a week.

Rio Metro Route 504 - Weekdays to Downtown ABQ. Departs the station at 4:35 a.m. Bus is timed to meet the nortbound train from Downtown ABQ at 5:02 a.m.

Rio Metro Route 505-B - Weekdays to Los Lunas and Belen before the first southbound train. Board this bus at the Isleta Casino south parking lot.

Isleta Pueblo Station

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Santa Fe Pick Up Santa Fe Pick Up City of Santa Fe City of Santa Fe (505) 231-2573 (505) 231-2573 santafenm.gov santafenm.gov Santa Fe Trails Santa Fe Trails (505) 955-2001 (505) 955-2001 santafenm.gov santafenm.gov

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NM Park & Ride NM Park & Ride (866) 551-7433 (866) 551-7433 nmparkandride.com nmparkandride.com Taos Express Taos Express (505) 629-4725 (505) 629-4725 (866) 206-0754 (866) 206-0754 taosexpress.com taosexpress.com ncrtd.org ncrtd.org

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Please contact the connection provider for fares.

Buffalo Thunder Resort & BuffaloShuttle Thunder Resort & Casino Casino Shuttle (505) 819-2292 (505) 819-2292 buffalothunderresort.com buffalothunderresort.com North Central Regional North District Central Regional Transit (NCRTD) Transit District (NCRTD) (866) 206-0754 (866) 206-0754 (505) 629-4725 (505) 629-4725 ncrtd.org ncrtd.org

Rio Metro Rio Metro Regional Transit District Regional Transit District (866) 795-7245 (866) 795-7245 riometro.org riometro.org Hollywood Casino Shuttle at Hollywood San Felipe Casino Shuttle at San Felipe (505) 991-5247 (505) 991-5247 (877) 529-2946 (877) 529-2946 sanfelipecasino.com sanfelipecasino.com

Santa Ana Star Casino Santa Ana Star Casino Shuttle Shuttle (505) 771-5336 (505) 771-5336 (505) 867-0000 (505) 867-0000 santaanastar.com santaanastar.com Sandia Resort & Casino Sandia Resort & Casino Shuttle Shuttle (505) 796-7500 (505) 796-7500 sandiacasino.com sandiacasino.com

Belen

Los Lunas

Isleta Pueblo

Bernalillo Co.

Downtown Albuquerque

Montaño

Los Ranchos Journal Center

Sandia Pueblo

Rio Metro Valencia Rio Metro Valencia (505) 352-3595 (505) 352-3595 riometro.org riometro.org Socorro Shuttle Socorro Shuttle (575) 835-1501 (575) 835-1501 socorronm.gov socorronm.gov

Downtown Bernalillo

Sandoval Co. / US 550

Kewa Pueblo

Santa Fe Co. NM 599

Zia Road

ABQ RIDE ABQ RIDE (505) 243-7433 (505) 243-7433 myabqride.com myabqride.com Isleta Resort & Casino Isleta Resort & Casino Shuttle Shuttle (877) 747-5382 (877) 747-5382 isleta.com isleta.com

For more information, fares and connections not listed, please contact these providers:

NM 599 Station Shuttle - Weekdays to Bisbee Court, the New Mexican Plaza, Jaguar, Camino Entrada, and Santa Fe Place Mall.

Meets most trains.

NCRTD Route 270 - Weekdays to the NM Department of Corrections, Oñate Complex (National Guard) and the Santa Fe County Detention Center.

Santa Fe Trails Route 22 - Weekdays to Santa Fe Community College, Rancho Viejo and IAIA. NM Park & Ride Purple Route - Weekday direct connection between the Rail Runner and Los Alamos.

NM Park & Ride Purple Shuttle Route to connect from the first run of the morning on the NM Park & Ride Purple Bus Route to the South Capitol & Santa Fe Depot Stations. Weekday departure at 5:11 a.m.

ABQ RIDE Route 222 - Weekdays to the South Valley, VA Hospital, Kirtland Air Force Base and the airport business district. Can also be used to access the Albuquerque International Sunport for passengers coming from and going to Valencia County.

Rio Metro Route 504 - Weekdays to Downtown ABQ. Departs the station at 4:45 a.m. Bus is timed to meet the nortbound train from Downtown ABQ at 5:02 a.m.

Rio Metro Route 505-B - Weekdays to Los Lunas and Belen before the first southbound train.

Bernalillo County Station

Santa Fe County/NM 599 Station

Santa Fe Trails Route 6 (Rodeo Road) To Christus St. Vincent Regional Medical Center, Rodeo Business Park East, and the Santa Fe Place Mall. Bus stops are located on Zia Road on the east side of St. Francis Drive (no direct service to Zia Rd Station).

Zia Rd Station

NCRTD Mountain Trail Route – Daily service to Ski Santa Fe with stops throughout downtown and at 10,000 Waves.

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ABQ RIDE Route 777 - (Rapid Ride Green Line) Express route to access UNM, Nob Hill, and the foothills near Tramway. Located in front of the building.

ABQ RIDE Route 66 - Access to locations along Central Ave. including Central & Unser Park & Ride, City and County buildings, UNM and EXPO NM. Located in front of the building.

ABQ RIDE Route 40 - (The D-RIDE) Free downtown circulator that runs every 7 minutes Monday- Friday.

ABQ RIDE Route 53 - To Isleta Blvd, the Albuquerque Zoo and the National Hispanic Cultural Center.

ABQ RIDE Route 217 - To Central New Mexico Community College (CNM) and Kirtland Air Force Base.

ABQ RIDE Route 250 - Airport Express. Direct route to the Albuquerque International Sunport.

Rio Metro Route 505-B - Weekdays to Isleta Pueblo, Los Lunas and Belen. Bus leaves daily at 6:25 a.m. Board this route at Bus Bay “N”.

Other ABQ RIDE Routes - There are nearly 40 other ABQ RIDE bus routes that get you just about anywhere in the city.

NCRTD Route 200 - Weekdays between Santa Fe and Española.

NCRTD Route 220 - Weekdays between Santa Fe, Tesuque, Pojoaque and Española.

NCRTD Route 280 - Weekdays between Santa Fe, Eldorado, Galisteo, Stanley, Moriarity and Edgewood.

NCRTD Route 290 - Weekdays between Santa Fe, Eldorado, Galisteo, Stanley, Moriarty and Edgewood.

NCRTD Santa Fe to Taos - Weekdays between Santa Fe and Taos.

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Weekday Schedule Monday through Friday

LUNES A VIERNES

Shown are departure times, unless otherwise noted.

Horario demuestra tiempos de salida a no ser que se indique lo contrario.

Schedule Effective April 24th, 2017

Horario efectivo a partir del 24 de abril del 2017

ESTACIONES DE TREN

#502

#504

#102 EXPRESS

#506

#508

#510

#512

#514

#516

#518

#520

Belen

–

–

5:39A

6:35A

8:04A

–

3:40P

–

5:51P

7:01P

7:57P

ESTACIONES DE TREN TRAIN STATIONS

READING THE SCHEDULE 1. Decide whether you are going north (at top) or south (at bottom).

2. On the left-hand side, find the station from which you are leaving.

3. Read across to find the times the Rail Runner departs from that station.

4. From there, read down to find what time the Rail Runner will arrive at the station to which you are traveling.

COMO LEER EL HORARIO

Shown are departure time unless otherwise noted

Northbound / rumbo norte

Los Lunas

–

–

5:49A

6:46A

8:15A

–

3:51P

–

6:01P

7:12P

8:08P

Isleta Pueblo

–

–

6:02A

6:59A

8:27A

–

4:04P

–

6:16P

7:26P

8:22P

Bernalillo County

–

–

6:10A

7:06A

8:35A

–

4:11P

–

6:29P

7:35P

8:31P

Downtown ABQ

4:32A

5:02A

6:22A

7:19A

8:42A

9:35A

4:26P

5:34P

6:48P

7:42P

8:38P

Montaño

4:41A

5:11A

–

7:29A

–

9:44A

4:35P

5:43P

6:58P

–

–

Los Ranchos / JC

4:47A

5:17A

6:34A

7:36A

–

9:50A

4:41P

5:49P

7:06P

–

–

Sandia Pueblo

4:52A

5:22A

–

7:42A

–

9:55A

4:46P

5:54P

7:12P

–

–

Downtown Bernalillo

5:01A

5:31A

–

7:52A

–

10:03A

4:54P

6:07P

7:26P

–

–

Sandoval / US 550

5:05A

5:35A

6:46A

7:58A

–

10:08A

4:59P

6:12P

7:31P

–

–

Kewa

5:25A

5:55A

7:05A

8:18A

–

10:28A

5:19P

6:34P

7:50P

–

–

SF County / NM 599

5:48A

3. Lea hacia la derecha hasta encontrar la hora que el tren sale de la estación de su preferencia

6:18A

7:24A

8:39A

–

10:51A

5:43P

6:57P

8:13P

–

–

Zia Road

5:58A

6:28A

–

8:49A

–

11:01A

5:53P

7:07P

8:23P

–

–

4. De alli, lea hacia abajo hasta encontrar la hora que el tren llega a la estación de su preferencia

South Capitol

6:08A

6:38A

7:40A

8:56A

–

11:11A

6:00P

7:17P

8:33P

–

–

Santa Fe Depot

6:13A

6:43A

7:45A

9:01A

–

11:16A

6:05P

7:22P

8:38P

–

–

1. Decida si va a ir hacia el norte o hacia el sur 2. A la izquierda, busque la estación de donde va a salir

READ DOWN LEA HACIA ABAJO

ESTACIONES DE TREN

CONTACT/CONTACTO

505-245-RAIL(7245) www.riometro.org Customer Service Hrs. Mon.-Fri. 5am-10pm Sat. & Sun. 7am-10pm Horas de Servicio al Cliente: lunes a viernes 5am - 10pm, sábado y domingo 7am - 10pm.

Southbound / rumbo sur

Shown are departure time unless otherwise noted #101 #517 #519 #521 EXPRESS

#501

#503

#507

#509

#511

#513

#515

Santa Fe Depot

–

–

5:39A

7:13A

1:02P

–

4:15P

5:04P

5:30P

6:46P

9:00P

South Capitol

–

–

5:43A

7:18A

1:07P

–

4:20P

5:09P

5:35P

6:51P

9:05P

Zia Road

–

–

5:49A

7:25A

1:14P

–

4:27P

–

5:42P

6:58P

9:12P

7:37A

1:26P

–

4:39P

5:26P

5:54P

7:10P

9:24P

TRAIN STATIONS

SF County / NM 599

–

–

6:01A

Kewa

–

–

6:19A

7:55A

1:44P

–

4:57P

–

6:12P

7:28P

9:42P

Sandoval / US 550

–

–

6:38A

8:14A

2:03P

–

5:16P

6:02P

6:31P

7:47P

10:01P

Downtown Bernalillo

–

–

6:43A

8:18A

2:07P

–

5:20P

–

6:35P

7:51P

10:05P

Sandia Pueblo

–

–

6:52A

8:27A

2:16P

–

5:29P

–

6:44P

8:00P

10:14P

–

6:57A

8:32A

2:21P

–

5:34P

6:14P

6:49P

8:05P

10:19P

Los Ranchos / JC

– –

–

7:02A

8:37A

2:26P

–

5:39P

–

6:54P

8:10P

10:24P

Downtown ABQ

4:45A

5:30A

7:10A

8:45A

2:37P

4:30P

5:50P

6:25P

7:02P

8:18P

10:32P

Bernalillo County

4:53A

5:41A

7:19A

–

2:45P

4:38P

5:57P

–

7:09P

–

–

Isleta Pueblo

5:01A

5:49A

7:27A

–

2:52P

4:45P

6:06P

–

7:17P

–

–

Los Lunas

5:13A

6:06A

7:39A

–

3:05P

4:58P

6:22P

–

7:31P

–

–

Belen

5:24A

6:17A

7:50A

–

3:15P

5:08P

6:33P

–

7:42P

–

–

Montaño

READ DOWN LEA HACIA ABAJO

Designated QUIET CAR Service Only cars nearest to locomotive are Quiet Cars Means train does not stop

Significa el tren no hace parada

30

www.riometro.org | www.travelnewmex.com | FALL / WINTER 2017

0:00

Train arrives but does not continue

Tren llega hasta este punto pero no continua

Weekend Schedule Saturday and Sunday

SABADO Y DOMINGO

Shown are departure times, unless otherwise noted.

Horario demuestra tiempos de salida a no ser que se indique lo contrario.

Schedule Effective April 24th, 2017

Horario efectivo a partir del 24 de abril del 2017

ESTACIONES DE TREN

Saturday

Northbound Saturday / sabado rumbo norte

ESTACIONES DE TREN

TRAIN STATIONS

#702

#704

#706

#708

#710

Belen

7:50A

12:45P

5:40P

7:43P

10:35P

#703

#705

#707

#709

#711

Santa Fe Depot

–

10:20A

3:15P

–

8:10P

10:14P

Los Lunas

8:00A

12:55P

5:50P

7:53P

10:45P

South Capitol

–

10:25A

3:20P

–

8:15P

10:19P

Isleta Pueblo

8:11A

1:06P

6:01P

8:04P

10:56P

Zia Road

–

10:33A

3:28P

–

8:23P

10:27P

Bernalillo County

8:19A

1:14P

6:09P

8:12P

11:03P

SF County / NM 599

–

3:37P

–

8:32P

10:36P

Downtown ABQ

8:30A

1:25P

10:42A

6:20P

8:23P

11:11P

Kewa

3:55P

–

8:50P

10:54P

8:39A

6:29P

8:32P

–

11:00A

Montaño

1:34P

–

Sandoval / US 550

6:35P

8:38P

–

4:13P

–

8:45A

11:18A

9:08P

11:13P

Los Ranchos / JC

1:40P

–

8:43P

–

11:21A

4:16P

–

8:50A

6:40P

–

9:11P

11:16P

Sandia Pueblo

1:45P

Downtown Bernalillo

8:58A

6:48P

8:51P

–

–

11:30A

4:25P

–

9:20P

11:25P

Downtown Bernalillo

1:53P

Sandia Pueblo

9:02A

6:52P

8:55P

–

–

11:35A

4:30P

–

Sandoval / US 550

1:57P

Los Ranchos / JC

9:25P

11:30P

2:15P

7:10P

9:13P

–

–

11:41A

4:36P

–

Kewa

9:20A

Montaño

9:31P

11:36P

SF County / NM 599

9:41A

2:36P

7:31P

9:34P

–

Downtown ABQ

6:56A

11:51A

4:45P

6:51P

9:41P

11:45P

Zia Road

9:52A

2:47P

7:42P

9:45P

–

Bernalillo County

7:06A

12:01P

4:56P

7:01P

9:51P

–

South Capitol

10:00A

2:55P

7:50P

9:53P

–

Isleta Pueblo

7:14A

12:09P

5:04P

7:09P

9:59P

–

Santa Fe Depot

10:05A

3:00P

7:55P

9:58P

–

Los Lunas

7:25A

12:20P

5:15P

7:20P

10:10P

–

Belen

7:35A

12:30P

5:25P

7:30P

10:20P

–

READ DOWN

READ DOWN

LEA HACIA ABAJO

ESTACIONES DE TREN

LEA HACIA ABAJO

Northbound Sunday / domingo rumbo norte

ESTACIONES DE TREN

Southbound Sunday / domingo rumbo sur

#702

#704

#706

#701

#703

#705

#707

Belen

7:50A

12:45P

5:40P

Santa Fe Depot

–

10:20A

3:15P

8:10P

TRAIN STATIONS

Sunday

Southbound Saturday / sabado rumbo sur

#701

TRAIN STATIONS

TRAIN STATIONS

Los Lunas

8:00A

12:55P

5:50P

South Capitol

–

10:25A

3:20P

8:15P

Isleta Pueblo

8:11A

1:06P

6:01P

Zia Road

–

10:33A

3:28P

8:23P

Bernalillo County

8:19A

1:14P

6:09P

SF County / NM 599

–

10:42A

3:37P

8:32P

Downtown ABQ

8:30A

1:25P

6:20P

Kewa

–

11:00A

3:55P

8:50P

Montaño

8:39A

1:34P

6:29P

Sandoval / US 550

–

11:18A

4:13P

9:08P

Los Ranchos / JC

8:45A

1:40P

6:35P

Downtown Bernalillo

–

11:21A

4:16P

9:11P

Sandia Pueblo

8:50A

1:45P

6:40P

Sandia Pueblo

–

11:30A

4:25P

9:20P

Downtown Bernalillo

8:58A

1:53P

6:48P

Los Ranchos / JC

–

11:35A

4:30P

9:25P

Sandoval / US 550

9:02A

1:57P

6:52P

Montaño

–

11:41A

4:36P

9:31P

Kewa

9:20A

2:15P

7:10P

Downtown ABQ

6:56A

11:51A

4:45P

9:41P

SF County / NM 599

9:41A

2:36P

7:31P

Bernalillo County

7:06A

12:01P

4:56P

–

Zia Road

9:52A

2:47P

7:42P

Isleta Pueblo

7:14A

12:09P

5:04P

–

South Capitol

10:00A

2:55P

7:50P

Los Lunas

7:25A

12:20P

5:15P

–

Santa Fe Depot

10:05A

3:00P

7:55P

Belen

7:35A

12:30P

5:25P

–

READ DOWN

LEA HACIA ABAJO

READ DOWN

LEA HACIA ABAJO

The Río Metro Regional Transit District is committed to its Title VI obligations. We do not discriminate on the basis of race, color or national origin in the delivery of service. To obtain more information on our nondiscrimination obligations or to file a Title VI complaint, contact us at 809 Copper Avenue NW, ABQ, NM 87102.

El Distrito de Tránsito Regional de Río Metro cumple con las obligaciones del Título VI. No discriminamos por raza, color ni origen nacional al brindar nuestros servicios.

Para obtener más información sobre nuestros deberes antidiscriminatorios o para presentar un reclamo del Título VI, contáctenos en 809 Copper Ave. NW, ABQ, NM 87102. www.riometro.org | www.travelnewmex.com | FALL / WINTER 2017

31

Holiday Schedule Christmas Day

Monday, December 25, 2017 - NO SERVICE

Labor Day

Monday, September 4, 2017 - NO SERVICE

New Year's Eve

Sunday, December 31, 2017 – SUNDAY SCHEDULE

Columbus Day

Monday, October 9, 2017 - REGULAR WEEKDAY SCHEDULE

New Year’s Day

Monday, January 1, 2018 – NO SERVICE

Veterans Day

Saturday, November 11, 2017 - SATURDAY SCHEDULE

Martin Luther King, Jr. Day

Monday, January 15, 2018 – SUNDAY SCHEDULE

Thanksgiving Day

Thursday, November 23, 2017 – NO SERVICE

Presidents’ Day

Monday, February 19, 2018 – REGULAR WEEKDAY SCHEDULE

Day After Thanksgiving

Friday, November 24, 2017 - SUNDAY SCHEDULE

Christmas Eve

Sunday, December 24, 2017 - SUNDAY SCHEDULE

3 Ways to Purchase Your Ticket

Christmas Day

Monday, December 25, 2017 - NO SERVICE

Fares New Year's Eve

Mobie APP (NMRX) For Apple and Android.

(Receive Discount Online)

Sunday, December 31, 2017 – SUNDAY SCHEDULE

HOW TO CALCULATE YOUR FARE Step 1: Count the number of zones Count the number of zones through which you will travel.

Step 2: Pick the type of fare you need Do you want a one-way ticket, a day pass, a monthly or annual pass? Are you eligible for a reduced fare?

Step 3: Check the chart below and see how much your fare is

SYSTEM MAP Santa Fe Depot South Capitol

nmrailrunner.com Purchase and print tickets.

On The Train: Fares are collected by a ticket agent.

Zia Road

Santa Fe Co. NM 599

Kewa Pueblo

FULL FARE 1 zone 2 zones 3 zones 4 zones 5 zones 6 zones

one-way $2 $3 $5 $8 $9 $10

day pass $3 $4 $6 $9 $10 $11

monthly pass $39 $55 $72 $105 $110 $121

annual pass $385 $550 $715 $1045 $1100 $1210

REDUCED FARE 1 zone 2 zones 3 zones 4 zones 5 zones 6 zones

32

one-way $1 $1 $2 $4 $4 $5

day pass $2 $2 $3 $6 $7 $8

monthly pass $19 $28 $36 $52 $55 $61

annual pass $187 $275 $352 $517 $550 $605

www.riometro.org | www.travelnewmex.com | FALL / WINTER 2017

Sandoval Co. / US 550

REDUCED FARES ARE AVAILABLE TO: • Youth ages 10-17 • Students with a valid student ID • Seniors age 62+ • Medicare Card holders • People with disabilities who show: - An NM Motor Vehicle Department notification - A letter from a doctor indicating the disability (with exp. date) - An ABQ RIDE Honored Citizen Card - A Santa Fe Ride Card or Santa Fe Trails Half Fare Card - A disabled veteran ID card

Children

9 and under ride free!

Downtown Bernalillo

Sandia Pueblo Los Ranchos Journal Center Montaño Downtown Albuquerque Bernalillo Co. Isleta Pueblo

Los Lunas Belen

Question & Answer How do I buy tickets?

Tickets can be purchased online at riometro.org, onboard the train from the ticket agents, or on the Rio Ticketing app. We accept cash, debit, and credit cards (except American Express).

Are discounted tickets available?

Reduced fares are available to youth ages 10-17, students with a valid ID, seniors age 62+, and people with disabilities. Children 9 and under ride free. Please see the fare information listed in this magazine for details and a list of acceptable ID cards. Discounted tickets are also available to groups of 25 or more through the Customer Service Department. Call 505-245-RAIL(7245) for information about group travel.

What is the Freedom Pass?

The Freedom Pass is a lifetime pass that allows veterans with a VA medical card to ride the New Mexico Rail Runner Express at no cost.

Passes are issued to eligible veterans at the Rio Metro Customer Service office Monday-Thursday, and at additional locations in Albuquerque, Los Lunas, and Santa Fe. Call 505-245-RAIL(7245) or visit riometro.org for times and details.

Is my ticket refundable if I don’t use it?

Tickets are non-refundable and non-transferable.

Can I buy a ticket for someone else?

Yes, you may purchase a ticket for another person from our online ticketing (riometro.org). You will need to email the ticket to the person you are buying it for; they can either print it out or show it to the ticket agent on their mobile device.

Is there parking available at the train stations?

Free onsite parking is available at all of the Rail Runner stations with the exception of Downtown ABQ and the Santa Fe Depot. Parking at Downtown ABQ and the Santa Fe Depot is available for a fee at adjacent parking facilities.

Are there restrooms on the train?

At least one restroom is available on every New Mexico Rail Runner Express train. Longer trains will have more than one restroom.

Can I bring or buy food on the train?

Passengers are welcome to bring and consume food and beverages (excluding alcohol) on the train. Food and beverages are not available for purchase on the train.

Can I charge my cell phone/laptop/tablet on the train?

Electrical outlets are available for passenger use at each of the tables on the train. Tables are located on the mezzanine and upper levels only.

How do I store my luggage or packages on the train?

Luggage or packages may be stored under the seat or in the overhead racks. Please do not block an aisle or take up an extra seat with luggage or packages.

Can I bring my bicycle/sports equipment on the train?

Bicycles, skis and other sporting equipment are welcome on the train at no charge. Each New Mexico Rail Runner Express train car has designated space for up to 8 bicycles. During the winter months, the train also provides storage containers for ski equipment. Please store your equipment in the designated storage areas.

Are pets allowed on the train?

Pets are not allowed onboard, only service animals. Service animals can be guide dogs for the blind or visually impaired, signal dogs for the hearing impaired, or other types of animals that can be individually trained to work or perform tasks for an individual with a disability. Learn more about riding with a service animal at riometro.org.

Can I take a stroller on the train?

Strollers are welcome on the train. Please store large strollers in the bicycle storage area marked with a bicycle symbol.

How old do children need to be to ride alone?

Children must be at least 10 years old to ride the train without a supervising adult.

What happens if I leave something on the train?

If you leave an item on the train, please contact our Customer Service office at 505-245-RAIL(7245), Monday-Friday 8 a.m – 5 p.m. Lost items are turned in to the Customer Service office and are held for 60 days. If you find an item on the train, please turn it in to a ticket agent or conductor.

How can I find out if the train is delayed?

There are several options for passengers to stay informed about the status of the train. Rider Alerts are posted on the home page of the Rail Runner website. You can sign up to receive text alerts for specific train routes and be notified of any delays longer than 10 minutes. Like us on Facebook and follow us on Twitter to receive updates about train delays and other information.

Can I use the train to get to the airport?

Passengers can travel between the Albuquerque International Sunport (ABQ) and the New Mexico Rail Runner Express using ABQ RIDE buses. Connections are available Monday-Saturday.

Visit riometro.org or call 505-245-RAIL(7245) or 866-795-7245 for a complete list of airport connections. www.riometro.org | www.travelnewmex.com | FALL / WINTER 2017

33

Schedule of Events ONGOING EVENTS

OCTOBER 7 Exhibit Opening: “Girl with a Camera” Belen Harvey House Museum 10 a.m. – 5 p.m.

Exit the train at the Belen Station and walk south across the pedestrian overpass to 1st & Dalies.

(505) 861-0581 belen-nm.gov OCTOBER 9 Indigenous Peoples’ Day Indian Pueblo Cultural Center, Albuquerque 9:30 a.m. – 4 p.m.

Exit the train at Downtown ABQ and take ABQ RIDE Route 10 north to 12th & Indian School.

(505) 843-7270 indianpueblo.org OCTOBER 7-15 Albuquerque International Balloon Fiesta Balloon Fiesta Park, Albuquerque Special Balloon Fiesta & Rail Pass available for each weekend. Includes train pass, shuttle connection and admission to one session of Fiesta.

(505) 821-1000 balloonfiesta.com riometro.org OCTOBER 14 New Mexico Brew Fest EXPO NM, Albuquerque 1 - 6 p.m.

Exit the train at Downtown ABQ and take ABQ RIDE Route 66 east to Central & San Pedro.

(505) 362-4848 nmbrewfest.com OCTOBER 28-29 $1 Weekend NM Rail Runner Express Ride the train for only $1 each day, all day.

(505) 245-7245 (RAIL) riometro.org NOVEMBER ALL MONTH Native American Student Art Show Indian Pueblo Cultural Center, Albuquerque 9 a.m. – 5 p.m. Daily Exit the train at Downtown ABQ and take ABQ RIDE Route 10 north to 12th & Indian School.

(505) 843-7270 indianpueblo.org

Santa Fe Farmers Market Santa Fe Railyard Every Saturday year-round 8 a.m. – 1 p.m.

Exit the train at the Santa Fe Depot.

(505) 983-4098 santafefarmersmarket.com Railyard Artisan Market Santa Fe Railyard Every Sunday year-round 10 a.m. – 4 p.m.

Exit the train at the Santa Fe Depot.

(505) 983-4098 artmarketsantafe.com Santa Fe Artists Market Santa Fe Railyard Saturdays through December 8 a.m. – 1 p.m.

Exit the train at the Santa Fe Depot.

(505) 310-8766 santafeartistsmarket.com Downtown Growers’ Market Robinson Park, Albuquerque Saturdays through November 4 8 a.m. – 12 p.m.

Exit the train at Downtown ABQ & walk to 8th & Central.

(505) 252-2959 downtowngrowers.com Rail Yards Market Albuquerque Rail Yard Sundays through October 10 a.m. – 2 p.m.

Exit the train at Downtown ABQ and walk south to 1st & Hazeldine.

(505) 600-1109 railyardsmarket.org OCTOBER OCTOBER 6-8 ABQ Gem, Mineral & Jewelry Show EXPO NM, Albuquerque 9 a.m. – 5 p.m.

Exit the train at Downtown ABQ and take ABQ RIDE Route 66 east to Central & San Pedro.

(505) 222-9700 exponm.com OCTOBER 6-8 Albuquerque Grecian Festival NOVEMBER 11 St. George Greek Orthodox Church, Tribute to Veterans Albuquerque Belen Harvey House Museum 11 a.m. – 10 p.m. Friday-Saturday Call for times 11 a.m. – 5 p.m. Sunday Exit the train at the Belen Station and walk Exit the train at Downtown ABQ and take south across the pedestrian overpass to 1st ABQ RIDE Route 66 east to Central & & Dalies.

Edith, then take a short walk south to (505) 861-0581 308 High St. SE. belen-nm.gov (505) 247-9411 abqgreekfest.com www.riometro.org | www.travelnewmex.com | FALL / WINTER 2017 34

NOVEMBER 17 Colcha Community Stitch-Along National Hispanic Cultural Center, Albuquerque 9:30 a.m. – 12 noon Exit the train at Downtown ABQ and take ABQ RIDE Route 54 to 4th & Bridge.

(505) 246-2261 nhccnm.org NOVEMBER 17-19 Recycle Santa Fe Art Festival Santa Fe Community Convention Center Call for times Exit the train at the Santa Fe Depot and take the Santa Fe Pick-Up Shuttle or a short walk to Grant & Marcy.

(505) 603-0558 recyclesantafe.org NOVEMBER 24-26 Rio Grande Arts and Crafts Festival Expo NM, Albuquerque 10 a.m. – 5 p.m. Friday-Saturday 10 a.m. – 4 p.m. Sunday Exit the train at Downtown ABQ and take ABQ RIDE Route 66 east to Central & San Pedro.

(505) 292-7457 riograndefestivals.com NOVEMBER 25 Bugg Lights Opening Night Belen Harvey House Museum 5 - 9 p.m.

Exit the train at the Belen Station and walk south across the pedestrian overpass to 1st & Dalies. Free shuttles from the station to the event will be provided for opening night only.

(505) 861-0581 belen-nm.gov DECEMBER ALL MONTH Bugg Lights Display Belen Harvey House Museum 5 - 9 p.m. Tuesday-Sunday (Closed Mondays & Dec. 31) Exit the train at the Belen Station and walk south across the pedestrian overpass to 1st & Dalies.

(505) 861-0581 belen-nm.gov ALL MONTH Exhibit: The Heart of Arte National Hispanic Cultural Center, Albuquerque 10 a.m. – 5 p.m. Tuesday-Sunday Exit the train at Downtown ABQ and take ABQ RIDE Route 54 to 4th & Bridge.

(505) 246-2261 nhccnm.org ALL MONTH Pueblo Gingerbread House Display Indian Pueblo Cultural Center, Albuquerque 9 a.m. – 5 p.m. Daily Exit the train at Downtown ABQ and take ABQ RIDE Route 10 north to 12th & Indian School.

(505) 843-7270 indianpueblo.org

Schedule of Events DECEMBER 3 Young Native Artists Winter Show NM History Museum, Santa Fe 10 a.m. – 3 p.m.

Exit the train at the Santa Fe Depot and take the Santa Fe Pick-Up Shuttle or walk to Lincoln & E. Palace.

(505) 476-5100 nmhistorymuseum.org DECEMBER 8 Christmas at the Palace Palace of the Governors, Santa Fe 5:30 - 8 p.m.

Exit the train at the Santa Fe Depot and take the Santa Fe Pick-Up Shuttle or walk to Lincoln & E. Palace.

(505) 476-5100 palaceofthegovernors.org DECEMBER 9 Santa’s Village Santa Fe Railyard 10 a.m. – 3 p.m.

Exit the train at the Santa Fe Depot.

(505) 245-7245 (RAIL) riometro.org DECEMBER 10 Las Posadas NM History Museum, Santa Fe 5:30 - 7 p.m.

Exit the train at the Santa Fe Depot and take the Santa Fe Pick-Up Shuttle or walk to Lincoln & E. Palace.

(505) 476-5200 nmhistorymuseum.org DECEMBER 9-10 Rail Yards Holiday Market Albuquerque Rail Yard Call for times Exit the train at Downtown ABQ and walk south to 1st & Hazeldine.

(505) 600-1109 railyardsmarket.org JANUARY ALL MONTH Crafting Memory: The Art of Community in Peru Museum of International Folk Art, Santa Fe 10 a.m. – 5 p.m. Tuesday-Sunday Exit the train at the Santa Fe Depot and take the Santa Fe Pick-Up Shuttle to Museum Hill.

(505) 476-1200 internationalfolkart.org ALL MONTH Exhibit: When Modern Was Contemporary Albuquerque Museum of Art and History 9 a.m. – 5 p.m. Tuesday-Sunday Exit the train at Downtown ABQ and take ABQ RIDE Route 66 west to Central & Rio Grande.

(505) 243-7255 cabq.gov

ALL MONTH Exhibit: Voices of the Counterculture in the Southwest NM History Museum, Santa Fe 10 a.m. – 5 p.m. Tuesday–Sunday Exit the train at the Santa Fe Depot and take the Santa Fe Pick-Up Shuttle or walk to Lincoln & E. Palace.

(505) 476-5100 nmhistorymuseum.org JANUARY 12 Winter Brew Santa Fe Railyard 4:30 - 9 p.m.

Exit the train at the Santa Fe Depot Station. nmbeer.org JANUARY 12-14 Albuquerque Comic Con Albuquerque Convention Center 4 - 9 p.m. Friday 10 a.m. – 9 p.m. Saturday 10 a.m. – 6 p.m. Sunday Exit the train at Downtown ABQ and walk north to 2nd & Tijeras. albuquerquecomiccon.com FEBRUARY ALL MONTH Seniors Ride Free NM Rail Runner Express Seniors 62+ can ride any train for free on Wednesdays.

(505) 245-7245 (RAIL) riometro.org ALL MONTH Exhibit: Mansions, Motoring & Millennials Albuquerque Museum of Art and History 9 a.m. – 5 p.m. Tuesday-Sunday Exit the train at Downtown ABQ and take ABQ RIDE Route 66 west to Central & Rio Grande.

(505) 243-7255 cabq.gov ALL MONTH Exhibit: Long Ago…Pueblo People & Our Modern Environment Indian Pueblo Cultural Center, Albuquerque 9 a.m. – 5 p.m. Daily Exit the train at Downtown ABQ and take ABQ RIDE Route 8 to 12th & Indian School.

(505) 724-3539 indianpueblo.org FEBRUARY 3 – JULY 29 Exhibit: Da Vinci - The Genius NM Museum of Natural History & Science, Albuquerque Exit the train at Downtown ABQ and take ABQ RIDE Route 66 west to Central & San Pasquale, then walk north to Mountain & 18th.

(505) 841-2800 nmnaturalhistory.org

FEBRUARY 18-25 Santa Fe Restaurant Week Various Locations Exit the train at the Santa Fe Depot and walk or take the Santa Fe Pick-Up Shuttle to participating restaurants. nmrestaurantweek.com MARCH ALL MONTH Seniors 62+ Ride Free NM Rail Runner Express Seniors 62+ can ride any train for free on Wednesdays.

(505) 245-7245 (RAIL) riometro.org ALL MONTH The Piñata Exhibit National Hispanic Cultural Center, Albuquerque 10 a.m. – 5 p.m. Tuesday-Sunday Exit the train at Downtown ABQ and take ABQ RIDE Route 54 to 4th & Bridge.

(505) 246-2261 nhccnm.org MARCH 2-4 Fiery Foods and Barbeque Show Sandia Resort and Casino 4-8 p.m. Friday 11 a.m. – 7 p.m. Saturday 11 a.m. – 6 p.m. Sunday Exit the train at the Sandia Pueblo Station and take the free shuttle to the casino.

(505) 873-8680 fieryfoodsshow.com MARCH 4-11 Albuquerque Restaurant Week Various Locations Exit the train at the Downtown ABQ Station and walk or take an ABQ Ride bus to participating restaurants. nmrestaurantweek.com MARCH 9-11 Rio Grande Arts and Crafts Festival Expo NM, Albuquerque 10 a.m. – 5 p.m. Friday-Saturday 10 a.m. – 4 p.m. Sunday Exit the train at Downtown ABQ and take ABQ RIDE Route 66 east to Central & San Pedro.

(505) 292-7457 riograndefestivals.com MARCH 17-18 Southwest Chocolate & Coffee Fest Expo NM, Albuquerque 10 a.m. – 6 p.m.

Exit the train at Downtown ABQ and take ABQ RIDE Route 66 east to Central & San Pedro.

(505) 510-1312 chocolateandcoffeefest.com

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Setting the Tone for the Season $1 WEEKENDS The buck stops here, or at least somewhere between Santa Fe and Belen. If you have ever wanted to ride the New Mexico Rail Runner Express, it’s time to take advantage of the $1 Weekends. That’s right, you can ride the Rail Runner for just $1 a day Sept. 23-24 and Oct. 28-29.

Allyne Clarke, Marketing Director for the Rio Metro Regional Transit District, says the purpose of the $1 Weekends is to encourage people to ride the Rail Runner and thereby increase weekend passenger numbers. “It’s a pretty good deal,” Clarke says.

Good deal indeed. Those of you wanting to view aspens in the mountains should consider a September trip to Santa Fe. Ghost hunters may want to take the October train to Belen.

SENIORS 62+ RIDE FREE

Clarke says another good deal is the Seniors 62+ Ride Free program. On Wednesdays through September, those 62 and older can ride the Rail Runner for free – and that includes all trains all day.

Many of the Rail Runner’s rider incentive promotions are offered on a trial basis, and depending upon rider response the promotions are continued. “We first offered Seniors 62+ Ride Free February through April in 2016,” Clarke says, “and the response was wonderful.” This year, the program again started in February and will continue through September. To date, nearly 20,000 seniors have taken advantage of this opportunity.

Many who were first time riders have now become regular Wednesday riders. The program will start up again in February 2018.

BUGG LIGHTS

The Belen Harvey House Museum will continue a 47 year tradition this November and December with the annual Bugg

Visitors can see more than 300,000 lights and 100 uniquely decorated trees at the Belen Harvey House Museum over the holidays.

Lights Festival. Visitors will experience more than 300,000 holiday lights, vintage and homemade Christmas decorations, over 100 uniquely decorated Christmas trees, food, crafts, music, and more.

The Bugg Lights Festival opening night is Saturday, November 25 from 5-9 p.m. In addition to the festive display, everyone is invited to the City of Belen’s annual Miracle on Main Street Celebration and “Polar Bear Express” Parade. Take the Rail Runner south to Belen and catch a free shuttle to the festivities.

For those who can’t make opening night, the holiday display at the museum continues nightly through December 30 from 5-9 p.m. (except Mondays). Exit the train at the Belen Station and walk south across the pedestrian overpass to 1st & Dalies. For more information call (505) 861-0581 or visit belen-nm.gov.

SANTA’S VILLAGE

Children of all ages can catch the Christmas spirit on Saturday, December 9 at the Santa Fe Railyards by the Rail Runner’s Santa Fe Depot Station. Between 10 a.m. and 3 p.m., Santa and Mrs. Claus will be there for pictures, and an extra train will be added to the regular schedule to make sure every child gets a chance to tell Santa what he or she wants.

“We are heading into the fourth year of this event,” Clarke says, “and the attendance has been tremendous!” The event has attracted over 5,500 riders, she says.

A favorite attraction among children (and adults!) that has been with us from the start will be back again this year: the Interactive Train layout provided by the Santa Fe Model Railroad Club and the Children’s Museum.

Clarke says the event is very popular and lines can be long, so entertainment is being offered. In addition to elves handing out candy, kids will be given the opportunity to send Santa a letter or get their face painted.

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The Interactive Train Display is a favorite attraction at the Rail Runner’s annual Santa’s Village event. www.riometro.org | www.travelnewmex.com | FALL / WINTER 2017

More information about these and other great New Mexico Rail Runner Express riding opportunities is available at www.riometro.org.

The New Cochiti Visitor Center Featuring Cochiti Artist and Much More!

Pueblo de Cochiti Visitor Center is home to 12 Cochiti Pueblo artists who display their work at the Pueblo de Cochiti Visitors Center, a Pueblo enterprise on NM 22 and Cochiti Pueblo road. The center, a new building that opened April 18, 2016, also houses a U.S. Post Office, coolers with water and soft drinks plus an abundance of healthy snacks perfect for hikers visiting Kasha-Katuwe Tents Rocks National Monument, a mere 5 miles away.

MERMAIDS?

Martha Arquero, a Cochiti Pueblo artist who sells her work at the visitor center, makes whimsical creatures, like mermaids and Cheshire Cats, along with beautiful storytellers. Dave Gordon another Cochiti Pueblo artist makes his own rawhide from 30 cow hides he obtained through a trade for ceremonial drums. “Making drums is a lot of work,” Gordon says, “but I take pride in it.” Other artists include Nellie Suina, who has her beautifully hand-crafted jewelry items for sale. Carmen (Kateri) Williams, Sarah Arquero, Gerald Chalon, Eddie Arquero, Jeff Suina, who is a very talented potter, and Arnold Herrera are among the talented Cochiti Pueblo artists who have their wares available for sale at Dave Gordon of Cochiti Pueblo Cochiti Visitor Center. is carrying on a family tradition of making drums from aspen logs cottonwood logs, and rawhide. Photo

by Martin Frentzel.

Jaime S. Delgado manages the Visitor Center, and operates White

RAIL RUNNER EXPRESS

Cliffs Designs - a Tribal enterprise that offers digital printing on T-shirts, tote bags, aprons and other items. No print job is too big or too small for White Cliffs to handle. White Cliffs Designs can be reached at 505-465-7082.

Located inside the Visitor Center you will also find a branch of the U.S.P.S. which is open Monday through Friday 9:00 a.m.

– 2:00 p.m. Geraldine Pecos is ready to assist you with your postal needs.

Hikers visiting Kasha-Katuwe Tent Rocks National

Located 3.4 miles from Monument near Cochiti Pueblo can stop by the the Visitor Center you will Pueblo de Cochiti Visitors Center for water, snacks and souvenirs. Photo by Martin Frentzel. find the 18-hole Robert Trent Jones Jr. Cochiti Golf Club; known as Heaven with a zip code.

Check out www.cochitigolfclub.com.

After your hike, the Visitor Center invites you to stop by on your way out to get a refreshing drink along with a souvenir that will remind you of your time spent here in our little part of the Land of Enchantment.

Pueblo de Cochiti Visitor Center is open Monday through Friday 8:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m. and Saturday and Sunday 9:00 a.m. – 5:00. The Visitor Center can be reached at 505-465-8535.

Kasha-Katuwe

TENT ROCKS NATIONAL MONUMENT

505-465-8535

COCHITI PUEBLO

VISITOR CENTER

Cochiti Visitor Center 1101 State Rd 22 Cochiti Pueblo, NM 87072

MONDAY - FRIDAY 8AM-5PM SATURDAY - SUNDAY 9AM-5PM

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Karma Café: Great Food, Community Strong In an increasingly changing world, it is a genuine comfort to know that there is an extraordinary place to get delicious, healthy meals, restore your faith in humanity, and feel good about yourself. Admittedly, that is a tall order for any entity, but it is simply a part of the menu and the mission at the aptly named Karma Café.

Karma Café is a small, modest affair, with a half-dozen picnic tables, mismatched chairs, and a price-free menu for those who might be struggling financially. Patrons cut across all socio-economic categories. In addition to great food, the organization offers community enrichment programs and volunteer training.

Located in a strip mall in the heart of Albuquerque, the premise of the restaurant is you pay what you can afford.

First, there’s the excellent meal (no matter what you order), then there’s a sense of camaraderie, and a feeling of connectedness to your fellow human beings. As you walk in the door you will find the menu is hand-written on a chalkboard and changes as ingredients and inspiration become available.

Consider the breakfast options: New Mexico breakfast burritos, with scrambled eggs, potatoes, pinto beans, cheese, salsa and jalapeno cream cheese, and if it’s spicy that tantalizes your taste buds go for the carne adovada, either one served on a warm flour tortilla. For something on

the sweeter side, a thin, delicate crepe stuffed with cream cheese and sweet mixed berry sauce. Either choice is a little reward for just being alive. Most breakfast and lunch options can be customized to work with vegan and vegetarian life styles. In fact, everything served at Karma Café comes with a sprinkle of joy, generosity, kindness, and respect. Every table is a community table.

The coffee served on this particular day was an Alpine Dark Roast, and delighted a noted coffee snob.

(continued on Page 52)

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RAIL RUNNER EXPRESS

We serve food using ingredients from our local farmers that is organic and grown sustainably.

When customers pay what they feel their food is worth, they are given the opportunity to contribute towards a world where respect, generosity, trust, equality, freedom and kindness rule.

Food Karma is dedicated to providing healthy food, at whatever capacities possible, to our patrons, indiscriminately of what they can afford to pay, strengthening social bonds and social responsibilities of all classes.

Food Karma is a Not-for-Profit Food Organization serving the greater Albuquerque area. We are available to cater your community events. We also provide community enrichment programs and volunteer training surrounding the processes of food production and service.

1617 San Pedro DR NE Albuquerque, New Mexico, NM 87110 (505) 312-8051 www.riometro.org | www.travelnewmex.com | FALL / WINTER 2017

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Los Lunas: Small Village, Big Historic Role

The Village of Los Lunas traces its origins to the Eighteenth Century, although incorporation occurred in 1928. For nearly twoand-a-half centuries, Los Lunas has stood at a crossroads in North America. Centuries before its settlement, native peoples inhabited sites along the Rio Grande and Rio Puerco, and they engaged in hunting and gathering throughout the region. Their trails extended far afield in all directions, and when Spaniards began exploring present-day New Mexico in the Sixteenth Century, they followed existing trails. Don Juan de Oñate’s entrada in 1598 established a public road maintained by the Spanish Crown, and during the Colonial Era, settlements such as Los Lunas remained connected to Mexico over the Camino Real. Later, in the Twentieth Century, Los Lunas was included in 1926 in the first, circuitous route of U.S. Highway 66, a distinction it enjoyed until 1937 when the auto trail was rerouted.

The Los Lunas Museum of Heritage and Arts strives to interpret the rich, multi-cultural history of the Village and Valencia County.

Located at the intersection of Main Street and Luna Avenue at the base of the water tower, the Museum fronts old Route 66, while the Rail Runner Station stands one-half mile to the south on New Mexico Highway 314. Visitors are welcome to enjoy our exhibits Tuesdays through Saturdays, 10:00 AM to 5:00 PM. In addition to the Village’s location on the crossroad of the Camino Real and Route 66, Los Lunas figures into many other historical episodes. During the Spanish Colonial Era, the establishment of the San Clemente Land Grant in July 1716 spurred settlement in the Rio Abajo, including the future site of Los Lunas. By 1778, a mission church had been established south of Isleta and north of Los Chaves, and in the following year it first appears on a map as “S. Clemente.” In the early Nineteenth

The Luna-Otero Mansion, completed in 1881, is the home of the Luna Mansion Restaurant. The restaurant is a short walk from the Los Lunas Station.

Century, families such as the Lunas and the Oteros moved large herds of sheep into the region, and as principal landowners the settlement that emerged near the mission church soon became associated with the Luna family.

By mid-century, when the United States acquired much of northern Mexico, the War Department established posts throughout the Ninth Military District, which encompassed New Mexico.

From 1852 to 1860, dragoons stationed at the Post at Los Lunas protected settlers and travelers along the old Camino Real. In the post-Civil War era, population slowly grew with the influx of immigrants from the United States and Europe; among the new arrivals were the Hunings from Hanover, Germany, a merchant family who played a significant role in Los Lunas. Agriculture, livestock raising, and mercantilism served as the community’s economic foundation until the tracks of the Atchison, Topeka, and Santa Fe Railroad arrived in 1880, becoming yet another route connecting Los Lunas to the world beyond.

To interpret local history, the Museum sponsors tours to historic sites, schedules speakers to present on such topics, and prepares exhibits for the public’s knowledge and enjoyment. From September through December 2017, the Museum features “Historic Maps of New Mexico,” an art exhibit by the Pastel Society of New Mexico, and the Fifth Annual Juried Art Show—“The Way It Was.” Tours include visits to the Salinas Pueblo Missions National Monument, the Very Large Array, and historic churches and a winery, our biannual “Saints and Sinners” tour. For information about the upcoming speakers’ series and our calendar of events, please call 505-352-7720 or visit us on Facebook at facebook.com/ loslunasmuseum.

www.riometro.org | www.travelnewmex.com | FALL /toWINTER 2017to work in Albuquerque and Santa Fe. 40 Residents from Los Lunas and Belen utilize the Rail Runner commute

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om n fr on o i t c ti nne er sta o c n us Run l hb Wit 99 Rai 5 US

MUSIC SHOWCASES ALL DAY!

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505-428-1270 | w w w.sfcc.edu * cost of tuition and fees for 15 credit hours

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To Learn More Contact (505) 842-9003•siabq.org

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Cornerstone of New Mexico’s Art History Emerging fresh from a remodel and upgrade late this November, the New Mexico Museum of Art launches a yearlong celebration of its centennial. From September 18 to November 25, 2017 the Museum will be closed for restoration of floors and walls and installation of three new exhibitions.

Over the birthday year, the Museum will host a series of 100 programs, events and celebrations honoring its past and

NM Inspired Apparel

#FS2Familia 44

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looking ahead to its future.

Beginning on Saturday, November 25, 2017, the Museum’s 100th birthday, guests can participate in a day-long celebration of this historic milestone. Visitors are invited to pose for a centennial group photograph, tour exciting new exhibitions in the galleries, listen to music in St. Francis Auditorium, and enjoy special programs and activities designed for all ages.

This event is free and open to the public from 10:00 am to 5:00 pm. Check the Museum of Art website for more Centennial events throughout the next year nmartmuseum.org.

The story of how the Museum of Art came to be traces back to the coming of the railroad transporting tourists to see the West. They came to see the desert, the mountains, the big mesa and prairies. They came to see the indigenous peoples, admiring and collecting items created through the skill and craftsmanship of weavers, potters, artists, and sculptors.

The geographic splendor of New Mexico’s mountains, valleys and mesas, big skies, sunrises, sunsets, and desert landscapes also drew artists to the region. They made their homes here, some started art colonies.

Founded before the Pilgrims landed at Plymouth Rock, Santa Fe already had a rich history as the nation’s oldest capital city, when forward-thinking leaders of the newly minted state looked toward indigenous artists, and the captivating allure of the sky and landscape drawing artists to the region. Looking for an identity for the new state’s capital city, prescient leaders like Edgar Lee Hewitt, Frank Springer, Carlos Vierra advocated strictly maintaining Santa Fe’s predominant adobe-style architecture. They made sure that the design of the state’s first art museum stayed true to that design. Marrying the promising state’s artistic future with its diverse cultural past, they built the state’s first museum directly across the street from the Palace of Governors, the epicenter of 300 years of New Mexico history under the flags of Spanish, Mexican, Territorial U.S. and the Confederate governments.

A crowd of 1200 gathered with much fanfare on November 25, 1917, when the New Mexico Museum of Art officially opened its doors to the public. Situated on a corner of historic Santa Fe plaza, the location of the Museum mirrors its role as a cornerstone upon which Santa Fe’s reputation as a world class art market was built.

Steel Bender Brewyard, Built to Brew in Los Ranchos After an exhilarating morning of watching hot-air balloons, settle in for a refreshing craft beer and delicious food at Steel Bender Brewyard on 2nd Street just south of Paseo del Norte.

The contemporary 8,600-square foot building boasts one of the best unobstructed views of the Sandia Mountains you will find.

Opening in mid-March just a half-mile southwest of the Los Ranchos Rail Runner Station, Steel Bender Brewyard is the brainchild of three Albuquerque brothers with deep roots in construction and real estate development, Greg, Chris, and Ethan Chant. When asked what they are proudest of after five months in business, they replied in unison, “Bob!” These kudos go to Robert Haggerty, SBB’s head brewer.

During their extensive research into all things brewery-related, the Chants retained the services of the brewer respected by his fellow brewers for his ‘impeccable palate” and character.

Hearing Haggerty describe the beers he creates is like hearing an artist explain their choice of colors and brush strokes.

“A lifelong family friend who sells equipment to breweries all around the world sampled our selection,” Chris Chant said.

“She said many breweries have only a few signature brews but that every one of Steel Bender Brewyard’s selections are solid and on point, and that’s all thanks to Bob!” Steel Bender Brewyard offers six house beers: • Skull Bucket IPA – a light, copper colored ale with aromas of orange, pine, ripe peach and apricot atop toasted

RAIL RUNNER EXPRESS

sugar and bread crust • Red Iron Red, a red mahogany, American IPA with a classic C hop character, malty and sweet with a touch of roast and a medium full body • Sparkfitter Amber, in the English tradition, balances toasty malts, earthy hops and fruity yeast to achieve a classic, pub-style bitter • Lloyd’s 3 O’Clock Kolsch, a dry and light easy-drinking Kolsch-style ale brewed with German pilsner malt and German hops fermented cool in a clean refreshing brew with an herbal, lemon hop character • Blue Bullet Stout – an American take on an Irish classic, this dry stout is full of cocoa and roast with notes of dates and dark fruit; and • The Village Wit –combines soft wheat notes and orange, coriander spicing of a Wit with the fruity, spicy balance of a farmhouse ale, appropriately dry; it’s the first in the series dedicated to SBB’s home in the Village of Los Ranchos They also rotate through special beers that Bob and his crew brew, releasing a new beer every two to three weeks, sometimes using fruit or other ingredients from local farms and orchards. Bob has also started his barrel program— his pride & joy--aging different base beers with different ingredients in different kinds of barrels for varying durations, then they’ll be bottled.

Ask which brew is the most popular, Haggerty mused, “Well (continued on Page 52)

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For a warm welcome after a cool ride . . .

SATURDAY arket 8am-1pm M

EAT FRESH BUY LOCAL

Early opening 7am June-Sept

OPEN YEAR-ROUND RAILYARD MARKET

TUESDAY arket M MAY 2 thru NOV. 21

Hours always the same as Saturday

RAILYARD MARKET

WEDNESDAY veningMarket E JUNE 21 thru SEPT. 27

3pm-7pm

RAILYARD MARKET

EL MERCADO el Sur D TION

Tuesday

3pm-6pm

NEW LOCA

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10am-4pm

t

rke Artisan Ma

RAILYARD

SUNDAYS RAILYARD MARKET

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Location • Comfort • Value 2 blocks from the Historic Santa Fe Plaza Comfortably elegant rooms Lavish buffet breakfast Nightly wine & cheese reception Delicious dining in Agoyo Lounge innonthealameda.com • 303 E Alameda at Paseo de Peralta • 888.984.2121

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Nob hill

historic olD towN

Located just east of the University of New Mexico, hip and fashionable Nob Hill is home to Route 66 neon signs and architecture combined with shops, galleries and restaurants.

A cultural gem with five museums and over 100 shops, galleries and restaurants. Stop by the Visitor Information Center to pick up a free Official Visitors Guide.

DowNtowN

uptowN

Just off the Rail Runner stop at the Alvarado Transportation Center, find bustling nightlife along Central Avenue (Route 66). Entertainment awaits at nightclubs, theaters, restaurants and galleries.

Uptown is home to high-end national and local clothing, accessories and home furnishings boutiques. With many great entertainment and dining venues, Uptown is alive day and night.

explore these albuquerque NeighborhooDs

Take The Rail RunneR To

You

are invited to the National Museum of Nuclear Science & History – an intriguing place to learn the story of the Atomic Age, from early research of nuclear development through today’s peaceful uses of nuclear technology.

The National Museum of Nuclear Science & History, New Mexico’s only national Museum, serves as America’s resource for nuclear history and science through thought-provoking exhibits and engaging family programs that bring the amazing world of nuclear science and history to life.

This congressionally chartered, Smithsonian Affiliate is located just south of I-40 on Eubank Blvd in Albuquerque, and it welcomes visitors to explore the compelling stories of our atomic past in exhibits such as “Manhattan Project,” “Cold War” and “Atomic Pop Culture,” and it is a place to look toward the future in exhibits such as “Energy Encounter,” Nano,” and “Nuclear Medicine.”

The National Museum of Nuclear Science & History also hosts “Little Albert’s Lab,” an area where young, inquisitive minds can explore hands-on science activities, as well as the nine-acre outdoor exhibit area, known as “Heritage Park,” where guests can walk right up to such historic artifacts as the newly restored B-29 Superfortress and B-52B Stratofortress, an F-16 Fighting Falcon and a behemoth nuclear submarine sail, just to name a few.

Visit the National Museum of Nuclear Science & History, and explore a museum where you can learn, think, imagine and draw your own conclusions.

The National Museum of Nuclear Science & History is open seven days a week from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. To learn more about this not-for-profit, educational entity, please visit nuclearmuseum.org.

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Taos Pueblo’s

Living Community Has Much to be Admired Taos Pueblo welcomes visitors from all over the world. It’s considered the oldest continuously inhabited community in the United States by archaeologists who say ancestors of the Taos Indians lived in the valley long before Columbus discovered America and even hundreds of years before Europe emerged from the Dark Ages.

And the people of Taos Pueblo are happy to share their storied history with tourists. It’s something the Pueblo has been sharing openly since the 1920s.

“Take a tour of the pueblo, if possible,” says Ilona Spruce, tourism director for Taos Pueblo. “Some of our guides are college students who were born and raised here and come back to share their perspective of the pueblo. There’s something very special about this because they are truly proud of where they came from and who we are as a people.”

Parts of this Northern New Mexico pueblo remain “Spring is here” – Courtesy of Taos Pueblo Tourism much like they were when the first Spanish explorers arrived in New Mexico in 1540. Those explorers were looking for the fabled Cities of Gold and believed Taos was one of them.

Architecture is a big draw of the Pueblo. The structures are made entirely of adobe — earth mixed with water and straw, made into sun-dried bricks. Roofs of each of the five stories are supported by large timbers (vigas) hauled down from the mountain “Pueblo Birds” – Courtesy of Taos forests. Smaller pieces of wood, pine or aspen latillas, are placed on top of the vigas. Pueblo Tourism The roof is then covered with packed dirt.

The outside surfaces of the pueblo are continuously maintained by plastering with thick layers of mud. Interior walls are carefully coated with thin washes of white earth to keep them clean and bright. The pueblo is actually many individual homes, built side-by-side and in layers, with common walls but no connecting doorways. In earlier days there were no doors or windows, and entry was gained only from the top.

Today, about 150 people live at the pueblo full time, and another 1,500 or so other families own more modern homes to the north or south of the oldest two structures.

“When people visit for the first time, I like to remind them to be mindful that our pueblo is a living community,” Spruce says. “Even though we openly welcome our visitors, we also need to let them know that these are people’s homes and some of the most beautiful and architecturally unique spaces.”

Taos Pueblo is a World Heritage Site as well. The pueblo is open to visitors daily from 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m., except during tribal ritual days that require closing the Pueblo. Late winter to early spring, the pueblo closes “Spring” – Courtesy of Taos Pueblo Tourism for about 10 weeks. Visit www.taospueblo.com for more information and to view events open to the public.

Taos Pueblo Tourism, 120 Veterans Hwy. Taos, NM 87571

(575) 758-1028 50

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Karma Café: Great Food, Community Strong (continued from Page 38)

Moving on to the lunch menu: the Monte Christo Sandwich, sliced black forest ham and swiss cheese grilled between thick egg battered toast. Served with raspberry jam, and a small kale salad. And if it’s a meatless dish that you prefer, you may be stopping in when pesto pasta is on the menu, made with spaghetti pasta with sautéed bell peppers, onions, and local oyster mushrooms. Topped with pesto sauce and parmesan cheese. There is a variety of farm fresh vegetables for extraordinary salads, stir-fried veggies, or a steaming bowl of fresh tortilla soup.

The idea of the Food Karma operation grew out of a food truck--partners and breakfast chefs Wade McCullough, Skylar Petty and Gigi McCullar operated this truck at the Downtown Grower’s Market. The mission statement reads: “Food Karma is a not-for-profit organization run solely on community contributions. Because food and nutrition are a human right, we operate on a ‘pay as you feel’ model. This allows everyone, regardless of financial situation or otherwise, a delicious meal.

What you pay is directly contributing to a meal for someone in need. Join us. One table for all.”

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Steel Bender Brewyard, Built to Brew in Los Ranchos (continued from Page 45)

& QUE QUER G ALBU OUNDIN R SUR S AREA

www

Is your mouth-watering yet? This isn’t your standard diner or strip mall restaurant fare. You actually feel good after eating here. Savoring a delicious, sandwich with pleasant strangers, connected to each other, nature and the food, doesn’t only feed your appetite, it feeds your soul too! Fresh, healthy ingredients and preparation are key, but, there is something intangible as well. So Karma Café’s operating cost make time to experience the Karma posted for all to see.

Café for yourself.

Open Tuesdays-Sundays 8am-4pm, Karma Café is located at 1617 San Pedro NE, half a block south of Constitution.

Follow us on Social Media: @foodkarmaabq #foodkarma #whereeveryoneeats

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that’s tough to say. One week one beer is the most popular, and the next week, it’s something else.”

Plan to nosh on some house-made fare as you explore and settle on your favorite brew. Steel Bender Brewyard’s menu features appetizers, soup and salads, in-house ground beef burgers; house-ground brats cased in house; sandwiches; a kids’ menu, and tasty dessert options.

With a beamed and tin ceiling, Steel Bender Brewyard has an industrial-feel, sectioned dining areas, and garage-style sliding doors that lead to a Beer Hall event space, outdoor seating and a brick outdoor bar. Inside there are unusual accents you would find in European pubs, conceptualized when the owners traveled around, gathering ideas. Careful attention and science went into the acoustics of the place, so you can enjoy a conversation even when the place is packed!

Sunday-Thursday 11am-10pm, Friday & Saturday 11am-11pm. 8305 2nd Street, NW, Los Ranchos de Albuquerque, NM 87111, (505) 433-3537

Transportation Fun with Trax

RAIL RUNNER EXPRESS

Think about railroad safety and the common icons that probably pop into your head are flashing lights and those long arms that descend across your lane of traffic before the train passes by. You might even envision hardhats and yellow vests.

If your nearby branch library did not come to mind, you are missing out.

Safety is a state of mind, and the employees of the New Mexico Rail Runner Express do lots of presentations with the intent of making railroad safety a priority even in the minds of young children.

FUN WITH TRAX

A Rail Runner team of marketing and safety specialists combined their efforts in 2017 to develop and present the “Transportation Fun With Trax” program that reached 279 individuals at eight libraries in the Albuquerque/Bernalillo County Library System. It was part of the annual Summer Reading Program.

Marketing specialist Riann Martinez says that Trax, the Rail Runner’s mascot, helped with all elements of the program, including posing with children for pictures at the end of each session.

“This was a fun and interactive program. It taught children how to be safe around railroad tracks, at train stations, at crossings, and so much more,” she says. Martinez says the program included reading aloud from books about trains, and interactive safety lessons. Trax helped demonstrate the distance trains need to stop, while young participants demonstrated the distance needed for cars and trucks.

Songs and rhymes helped involve everyone in the safety lessons, things like: Here’s a little choo-choo train

“Transportation Fun with Trax” included stories, songs, safety tips and a meet-and-greet with the Rail Runner mascot.

there and have adults lecture them,” she says. “It was fun. I hope we do it again next year.”

Paiz, who loved to read as a child, also was pleased to see the number of parents who took the time to take their kids to the libraries. “It was really sweet to know there are people out there who still value books,” she says.

Chugging down the track Now it’s going forward Kids were encouraged to actively participate in all parts Now it’s going back of the program.

Now the bell is ringing – Ding, Ding, Ding Now the whistle blows – Whooo, Whoooo!

What a lot of noise it makes Everywhere it goes!

“Next year we hope to get into the libraries again,” Martinez says, “and we hope to expand to Los Lunas, Belen and Rio Rancho.”

To schedule a Trax appearance call (505) 245-RAIL (7245) or send an email to riometro@mrcog-nm.gov.

There was even a dreaded test after the program, made gentler with prizes like hats and backpacks for the children who paid attention and could provide the correct answers to the moderator’s questions.

IT WAS FUN “Not everyone can talk to kids,” says Stephanie Paiz, community outreach and safety coordinator for the Rail Runner. “Riann and Brandon (MacEachen) use a language that kids can understand.

I think they really care about reaching the kids.” MacEachen, a marketing specialist, helped create the award-winning Trax activity book that was distributed to every child who attended the presentations.

Paiz does lots of classroom presentations to children during the school year, and she liked the interactive “Fun With Trax” approach. “Getting them involved was better than having them sit

Rio Metro staff presented “Transportation Fun with Trax” at eight public libraries this summer.

Pictured left to right: Riann Martinez, Trax, Brandon MacEachen, Stephanie Paiz. www.riometro.org | www.travelnewmex.com | FALL / WINTER 2017

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The open road to excitement is at Route 66 Casino Hotel. Rev it up with thrilling casino action featuring over 1,300 slot games and 15 actionpacked table games. Fill up with delicious dining options, including New Mexico’s best casino buffet. Switch gears with top-notch, toe-tapping entertainment. Coast into indulgence and stay the night in our classy and comfortable hotel.

Have an out-of-this-world experience. An unidentified flying object has landed in the center of the Route 66 Casino Hotel gaming floor, and its alien presence has drawn the newest slot games in the country. The larger-than-life flying saucer draws inspiration from both Area 51 and Route 66. Slot machines within the Area 66 realm will be regularly replaced with brand new exclusive machines, making Route 66 Casino first-to-market with 18 new games every 90 days!

Experience world-class quality, service and value at one of our award-winning restaurants and three lounges.

Tempt your taste buds at Thunder Road Steakhouse and Cantina. Located in the heart of the casino, this multi-level restaurant serves up sizzling steaks, spicy tacos and specialty drinks from the tequila bar.

Enjoy free entertainment by the best local bands every weekend on the bar-top stage. Voted best buffet many times over, Buffet 66 is a world of fresh choices all in one place, with an array of international flavors on the menu. When it comes to All-American

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comfort foods and cocktails, we’ve got it all!

Flashback to the good ol’ days in the newly renovated Johnny Rockets restaurant. Swing by the '50s-inspired diner for an All-American burger, onion rings, and milkshake. Main Street Restaurant & Bar is the perfect place for breakfast, or order a home-style special. Grab an indoor patio table and watch all of the casino excitement. If you’re looking to simply wet your whistle, swing by the 360 Lounge, Poker Pub or Main Street Bar, and ask about the drink specials.

Let us entertain you. With 2,800 plush theater-style seats in Legends Theater, every seat is a good seat. Experience performances from some of the best comedians, rock legends, country superstars, and premier tribute bands in the business.

Legends Theater features more than 20 headliner performances every year.

The fun doesn’t have to end when the sun goes down. Relax in one of the 154 newly renovated rooms at Route 66 Hotel.

Refreshed from floor to ceiling, a recent $2 million remodel features an inviting ambiance of lively designs, modern furnishings and many upgrades to make your stay comfortable.

Re-energize with in-room amenities from top brands like Simmons Beautyrest®, Starbucks®, and Bath & Body Works®.

Hotel reservations are available now. For rates, member discounts and reservations, please call 866-711-STAY (7829).

The entire family can get their kicks at Route 66 at Kids Quest and Cyber Quest, the on-site hourly child care and a non-violent game arcade. Route 66 Casino Hotel is the only casino property in New Mexico to offer this children's program. Open seven days a week, Kids Quest accepts children ages 6 weeks to 12 years.

The best gaming, dining and entertainment is just a hop, skip and short 18-minute drive west of Albuquerque, exit 140 on Interstate 40. Get all the latest Route 66 Casino Hotel news and announcements at www.rt66casino.com.

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Get away from the everyday and head toward excitement. Enjoy thrilling casino action, delicious dining options, top-notch entertainment and then stay the night in our classy and comfortable hotel.

866-352-RT66 (7866) • RT66CASINO.COM

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