Contested Guberntorial Candidate Profiles

Contested Candidates for New Mexico Governor

Jay C. Block

Jay retired as a Lieutenant Colonel in 2016 from Kirtland AFB, NM. He fell in love with New Mexico and decided to stay in Rio Rancho. Due to his vast experience working in the Air Force nuclear enterprise, Jay started a second career as a nuclear weapons consultant leading teams and conducting business development in private industry.

Jay decided to continue to serve his community after his military service by running for Sandoval County Commissioner in 2016. Jay was the first Republican to win his district’s seat on the Sandoval County Commission and he was re-elected in 2020. On the Commission, Jay focused on economic development, illegal dumping, ethics, passed a 2nd Amendment sanctuary county resolution, sponsored and passed a 30x30 resolution to overturn the Governor’s executive order, sponsored and passed the first-ever Right to Work ordinance at the county level, and focused on public safety that has led to huge crime reductions in all crime categories for Sandoval County.

He is also the first Commissioner in the history of the county to receive union endorsements from both the Firefighters and Sheriff’s Deputies.

1. Do you believe that agriculture is part of the economic engine of New Mexico?

Agriculture, farming and ranching has been a huge part of our economic engine and it will be even bigger during my administration. But our agriculture industry is also part of our history, and it still is to this day, from the huge dairy farms, to the cattle industry, to the Alpaca farms to the Orchards, Pecan farms and Hatch Green Chile. Agriculture is also part of our culture where generations of family have taken great care of the land, passing it down from generation to generation. That needs to continue.

2. How will you interact with the agricultural community as Governor?

Agricultural lands need to remain strong, stable and sustainable, our farmers and ranchers know what it is that they need to meet those things, as governor I will work with farmers and ranchers to take a close look at regulations that are unnecessary and burdensome. Low interest loans should always be available to the agricultural community since New Mexico offers huge incentives for big business to move here, our agricultural community deserves no less.

3. How will you deal with the federal Executive Order mandating 30 percent of the land and water must be protected by 2030?

I have already sponsored and passed a resolution to overturn that ridiculous executive order. As Governor I will repeal within the first seven minutes Grisham’s executive order returning all authority regarding 30x30 to the local governments. Those closest to the land are the ones most qualified to determine its usage, not big government. Bottom line, we must protect our large and small ranchers/farmers and water rights.

4. As governor, what actions will you take to protect New Mexico ranchers and their families from the federal Mexican wolves?

There is a place for the wolf in the New Mexico Wilderness, but I do not believe regulations in favor of the wolf outweigh the damage a wolf can do to a family’s livestock. Let’s make sure we are not serving one side or the other the right to destroy. In other words, there are ways to protect livestock, there are ways to protect the wolf and I will work with the ranchers and the farmers dealing with this issue to hear their solutions.

Additionally, the same can be said for too many elk, deer, and antelope on ranch lands that are eating the grass depriving cattle and destroying orchards. The landowner who values the land and works the land everyday are the ones with the solutions and the government should work more with landowners to find balanced solutions because right now, the government is not favoring the ranchers and farmers. The closer you are to the land the more you are aware of the needs.

5. What will you do to ensure that land and water are available for agricultural protection into the future?

We must invest in water infrastructure, like desalination plants that clean brackish water, sulfur water, and update the waste sewage treatment plants. I was a base commander who ran a desalination plant and the technology is available now. We must also protect water rights which is why 30x30 is so dangerous to the agriculture community. Lastly, we will look at how water regulations are affecting ranchers and farmers and I will work with the industry to remove unnecessary hurdles.

Rebecca Dow

Rebecca has represented District 38 in the New Mexico House since 2017. During that time, she has passionately defended New Mexico jobs, fought to defeat overregulation of industries like mining that provide so much of the state’s income, and successfully challenged powerful opponents of our basic, inalienable rights, like the Right to Life and our Second Amendment rights.

As a service to her community, Rebecca founded AppleTree Educational Center which provides much-needed educational services including early care and education, home visiting, college and career preparation, and comprehensive family support. AppleTree has been recognized with multiple awards for its excellence in education. Along with co-owning a technology company, Rebecca also provides consultation services to for-profit and community-based early childhood providers operating in the Rocky Mountain region.

1. Do you believe that agriculture is part of the economic engine of New Mexico?

Agriculture is a $3 billion contributor to the NM economy at the farm and ranch gate, second only to oil and gas. Yet it is so much more. In many counties it is the number one economic driver. It is also responsible for our green space in many rural/urban centers and provides much of our state’s wildlife habitat. By supporting agricultural producers we assure New Mexicans have access to high quality affordable food. It is a sector of the economy that we can’t take for granted.

2. How will you interact with the agricultural community as Governor?

I am from an agricultural community and currently represent Grant, Hidalgo, and Sierra and Counties. I will continue to interact with the agricultural communities as I have as a house representative. You can call me, email me, or ask for an in-person meeting at

any time. When I see you at a community event I’ll make sure to say hello.

3. How will you deal with the federal Executive Order mandating 30 percent of the land and water must be protected by 2030?

As a western state, the percentage of land owned by the state and federal government already exceeds the order. I will ban the governor’s executive order (basically 50x30) and will not implement any plan that decreases private property in New Mexico. Our Agriculture Producers are the best stewards of our land and water and they are putting conservation practices on the land everyday through the USDA Farm Bill programs as well as using their own finances and labor to conserve our land and our water. I will vigilantly watch and veto efforts to take away local decision making authority, water rights, purchase private land with tax payer dollars, and any other attack on our western way of life.

4. As governor, what actions will you take to protect New Mexico ranchers and their families from the federal Mexican wolves?

I oppose the reintroduction of wolves in New Mexico. Ranching is a way of life in New Mexico. The release of these wolves without proper management is taking away from my community’s right to earn a living. I will push the feds to take responsibility and allow for non-lethal and humane relocation of the problem wolves, additionally these ranchers deserve full compensation for their total loses. I will have the state take a bigger role in all management decisions for the Mexican Wolves within the state of New Mexico.

5. What will you do to ensure that land and water are available for agricultural protection into the future?

Agriculture Producers have the oldest and most senior water rights in New Mexico according to our State Water Law. We need to respect and protect Agriculture Water Rights. If we do not protect and support our farmers and ranchers, we will all suffer the consequences of food that is not abundant, safe or affordable. Agriculture Producers are some of the hardest working people and yet not recognized and appreciated to the degree they should be. As governor I will implement large scale land and vegetation management, including thinning our forests, to improve the watershed throughout the state. I believe that it is very important that we do everything that we can to encourage our next generation to be involved in one of the most important jobs on the earth which is “feeding the nation”!

Ethel Maharg

Ethel Maharg is a three term mayor of the Village of Cuba, New Mexico, where she served in office for 10 years. She left them with an almost two-million-dollar surplus and economic development that is still providing jobs nearly two decades later. Ethel is an alumnus of University of Phoenix where she received her degree in business administration. She has owned and operated several small businesses, been an educator, and managed two branches of a national bank.

In 2018 she coordinated the Convoy of Hope for Albuquerque managing 1700 volunteers and worked with the Hispanic Action Network to distribute 350,000 voter guides with a volunteer army throughout the state in an effort to help with the last governor’s race.

She served at Care Net Pregnancy Center of Albuquerque as the Client Services Director for five years overseeing four centers and one medical mobile unit, working with over 300 volunteer staff. She currently serves the state as the Executive Director for Right to Life Committee of New Mexico championing the cause of life for a decade.

She has been married to Dean for 38 years. They have three children and six grandchildren.

1. Do you believe that agriculture is part of the economic engine of New Mexico?

I absolutely do. I was born and raised in Northern New Mexico to a farmer/rancher.

Thanks to our ranchers, there are over one million head of cattle, with 387,000 of them being beef cows in New Mexico. Thanks to our superior alfalfa, New Mexico has become a national leader in milk and cheese production.

Our farmers and ranchers help feed the nation. There is no reason our small communities cannot thrive, and I will make sure they do.

2. How will you interact with the agricultural community as Governor?

It is part of my upbringing so I will do all I can to support them and see that they thrive. I don’t have to learn their way of life. I have lived it.

3. How will you deal with the federal Executive Order mandating 30 percent of the land and water must be protected by 2030?

I believe it is unconstitutional to take land from people. It is meant to impoverish our state and I will oppose it. Our land is part of our freedom and will not give it up.

4. As governor, what actions will you take to protect New Mexico ranchers and their families from the federal Mexican wolves?

I will always put people above animals, and the livestock of our New Mexico ranchers must be protected. I will do everything possible to protect our Ranchers and their livelihood.

5. What will you do to ensure that land and water are available for agricultural protection into the future?

Land and water are essential to the survival of our farming and ranching communities and our state’s economy. I will do everything to protect the land and we have the ability to do desalination as we have an abundance of water.

I will attract low water usage industries that will not take from agriculture. Agriculture can be effective when using drip systems so I would encourage them to use drip systems. I would encourage the growth of crops that do not require large amounts of water like bell peppers and eggplant.

Mark Ronchetti

Like many, Mark believes that elected leaders in New Mexico too often put politics ahead of the people they represent. Mark is running for Governor because he believes the people of New Mexico are ready for change. Mark Ronchetti lives in Albuquerque, where he and his wife, Krysty, are raising two young daughters. A proud New Mexican, Mark, and Krysty want their children to be able to chase and realize their boldest dreams – right here, at home. Krysty is a small business owner, and the two of them have seen first-hand how the challenging business climate in New Mexico holds the state back. As parents to two daughters,

they’ve also seen the flawed education system and the non-existent mental health support and how it’s failing kids in New Mexico.

1. Do you believe that agriculture is part of the economic engine of New Mexico?

Agriculture is a vital part of New Mexico’s economy. There is nothing more essential than putting nutritious food on the table for our families. The jobs, exports, and resources that agriculture provides to our state should not be understated. But for too long our agricultural sector has been demonized and left uninvested. From dairy to tree nuts, green chile to hay and sorghum, our agriculture is a way of life that needs to be protected at all costs.

2. How will you interact with the agricultural community as Governor?

Listening to New Mexicans about the issues that face them is paramount in being able to effectively lead this state. This includes visiting ranches and farms, speaking to cattlemen and agricultural producers, and feeling the soil between your fingers while walking the land. Over the years, and on the campaign trail I have had the pleasure of visiting with numerous ranchers and farmers across the state. From El Rito to Las Cruces, the needs of our agriculture industry are essential to our state’s economy, maintaining its open spaces, and preserving our way of life. The agriculture industry needs an advocate in Santa Fe who will protect their livelihood and ensure that New Mexico, and America, can continue to produce the food and products that we need.

3. How will you deal with the federal Executive Order mandating 30 percent of the land and water must be protected by 2030?

I will immediately rescind Michelle Lujan Grisham’s 30x30 executive order in New Mexico. I will also oppose President Biden’s federal Executive Order at every available opportunity. I will join forces with other leaders throughout the nation, like Nebraska Governor Pete Ricketts, to oppose it. It is an unprecedented land grab and blanket restriction that fundamentally seeks to change how our public lands are managed. It is another direct attack on our ranching, agriculture, and oil and gas industries.

4. As governor, what actions will you take to protect New Mexico ranchers and their families from the federal Mexican wolves?

The federal government is expected to finalize a new “rule” this summer to govern the management of the Mexican Gray Wolves. We can’t prioritize wolves over their livelihoods of our ranchers. I have very little faith that the Biden or Lujan Grisham Administrations will protect New Mexico ranchers (or even take into account their concerns) by enacting rules that protect this industry. We need a Governor who respects your way of life in New Mexico. We need game commissioners who understand the challenges ranchers face in dealing with wolves and depredations, and who aren’t afraid to challenge the federal government in court. It’s outrageous that the federal government plans to bring more law enforcement agents to ticket or arrest ranchers protecting their livestock, instead of using those resources to stand by ranchers. It’s spine-chilling that the federal government can jeopardize your livelihood by protecting wolves that threaten and kill your livestock. We need common sense that balances endangered species management with the needs of people who live off and work the land.

5. What will you do to ensure that land and water are available for agricultural protection into the future?

Ranchers and farmers are the original conservationists. They depend on the land and water for their livelihood and most are excellent stewards of the natural resources. Big government land grabs and failed federal management are not the way to protect our natural resources. Federal land managers need to listen to and partner with state and local agencies, grazing associations, acequia associations, conservation districts, and private landowners to not only protect the quality of our lands and water, but help our livestock industries survive and thrive.

Greg Zanetti

Greg Zanetti grew up in Albuquerque and graduated from Valley High School in 1976. He was appointed to the United States Military Academy and graduated from West Point in 1980. He has been married to his high school sweetheart, Teresa, for 41 years and they have two sons. Greg earned his MBA from Boston University and a master’s degree in Strategic Studies from the US Army War College. He managed money during the work week and put on a uniform to serve with the New Mexico National Guard on the weekends, where he rose to the rank of Brigadier General. In 2008, Brigadier General Zanetti was deployed to Guantanamo Bay where he served as Deputy Commander and later acting Commander of Joint Task Force Guantanamo. According to recent polling, Greg leads incumbent Gov. Michelle Lujan Grisham (D) by almost four points.

1. Do you believe that agriculture is part of the economic engine of New Mexico?

Absolutely, yes. In addition to feeding our families, New Mexico Ag helps feed our economy. Agriculture in New Mexico is a $3+ billion industry that provides roughly 150,000 jobs and helps fund essential services in our communities.

2. How will you interact with the agricultural community as Governor?

Directly. For too long, the concerns of our agricultural community have been ignored by politicians in Santa Fe. That changes on day 1 of my administration.

3. How will you deal with the federal Executive Order mandating 30 percent of the land and water must be protected by 2030?

As governor, I will protect private land rights and will push back against President Biden’s unconstitutional “30x30” land grab. Our farmers and ranchers are the original conservationists and the last thing they need is more federal government overreach.

4. As governor, what actions will you take to protect New Mexico ranchers and their families from the federal

Mexican wolves?

As the Mexican wolf population continues to grow in New Mexico, our cattle and even our residents are increasingly at risk. As governor, I will push back against the federal introduction of new wolves, ensure that the federal government is providing the necessary resources to keep the existing wolves at bay, and make certain they are properly compensating our ranchers for lost livestock.

5. What will you do to ensure that land and water are available for agricultural protection into the future?

I will block any effort to de-privatize farm/ranch land and ensure that our landowners have access to the water they are entitled to. In addition, I will support the construction of desalination plants that will help ensure we have the water we need to grow well into the future. ▫

CATTLEMEN FOR DOW

Jim Berlier Janet Cox David and Joy Schuhmann Wade Hatley Betty Welty Ron Woolf, Russell Woolf & Family Milton Hughes Jose Varela Lopez William & Denise Lindsey Fred Mobley Paul & Mary Bandy Michele Earle John & Megan Richardson Mary Lou Ballard Clay Crisp Preston Mitchell Loretta Rabenau Brett and Jonna Smith, Smith Cattle Co. Twister and Nellie Smith Jack and Jill Chatfield Jim Paxon Loren Patterson Boe Lopez Todd and Shelley Lindsay Alfred Lee Vaz Dairy GH Dairy Arroyo Dairy Cox Land & Cattle Scott McNally N&J Cattle Co. Broken Dipper Cattle Co. Escondida Land & Cattle Co. Norma Alvare Terry Lynn Adams Jack & Kay Diamond Brete & Jennifer Carlsen Jeff & Cheree Bilberry Craig Tharp Frank Burton Lynn Sims Double Spring Ranch Swaim Family David Jones Major Land & Cattle Co. Annette McCloy Mary Campbell Burns Ranch L.B. Bidegain Tonya Perez Penny Trainham David Whatley Laura Frost Jimbo Williams Dale and Gail Armstrong Randall and Lynn Major Bruce Smith Troy and Dianne Ham Hank and KeliKay Hopkins Gary Mandord Richard Ford Senator Pat Woods Chico Creek Ranch David and Tamara Ogilvie Jimmy and Vicky McCauley

Early Voting Starts on May 10, 2022

CATTLEMEN FOR DOW

Dr. John and Dolly Wenzel Russell and Shacey Sullivan Paul and Anita Petersen Julian and Sara Marta David McCauley Billy and Kathy Davis Todd and Honey Poling Billy & Mya Crisp Pat Boone Roy Farr Bob and Jennafer Daughtery High Seven Ranch Van Robinson Dusty and Pat Hunt James and Sandra Smith Sofia Land & Cattle Grady Eldridge Bronson and Barbara Corn Daren and Megan Albrecht Pat Bearup Judy Keeler Wayne and Lucinda Billings Edwin and Bird Bradberry Becky Campbell Tom Shelley Ron and Clorinda Strain Garrett and Megan Foote Hughes Ranch Ballard Farm & Ranch Cox Land & Cattle Van Dyke Farm & Vineyard Guadalupe Mountain Fencing Guadalupe Mountain Feed & Show Supplies Bradley Supply Yesterday’s Valley Ranch Alisa Ogden Hughes Properties Jim Davis Ranch & Black River Machine & Sales Affendale Ranch Buck and Blaire Pollister Bruce Smith Troy and Dianne Ham Gary Manford Garth Walker Bill Humphries Les and Cody Houser Wayne Kinman Dusty and Pat Hunt Ernie Torrez 4MP Salopeck Farms Steve Stocks Don and Susie Sumrall James and Sandra Smith Frances H Biebelle Family LLC

... And You!

Donate here to help Rebecca win!

Enter the Certified Angus Beef® Cook-Off Contest by May 15

By Briley Richard, Angus Communications

Entries are open for the American Angus Auxiliary-sponsored 39th All American Certified Angus Beef® CookOff Contest. All interested contestants must enter by the May 15 deadline. The contest will be held July 5 at the 2022 National Junior Angus Show in Kansas City, Missouri.

The Cook-Off Contest provides an opportunity for National Junior Angus Association (NJAA) members to display their knowledge of the beef industry and skills in the kitchen while enjoying friendly competition with fellow participants. All contestants must be members of the NJAA and each team must consist of two to six members of a state junior Angus association.

“We are excited to host the 39th All American Certified Angus Beef® Cook-Off Contest, which serves as the oldest educational contest at NJAS,” said Anne Lampe, American Angus Auxiliary Beef Education Committee co-chair. “The Cook-Off is not only a competition, but an opportunity for participants to learn about the Certified Angus Beef® brand and develop skills to educate others about beef.”

This annual contest allows NJAA members from each state to gather their best recipes, prepare a Certified Angus Beef® beef dish and perform a skit to entertain and educate the audience. The cuts selected for this year’s contest are as follows: the steak division is flank steak, the roast division is ball tip, and the other category is ground beef and will be the Ultimate Certified Angus Beef® Burger Grill Off.

The contest will be divided into three age categories: 8-13; 14-17; and 18-21. All ages will be determined as of January 1. Mixed teams may be entered but will be classified by the oldest member of the team. The contest will be judged by a panel of three judges. Winners in categories of showmanship and recipe, as well as overall excellence will be awarded special prizes.

New this year, the Cook-Off will present the Ardyce’s Aprons award to the top-ranking junior team. The award is in memory of past American Angus Auxiliary president Ardyce O’Neil who served an instrumental role in creating the Cook-Off and served as its first chairman.

Please note there will be no Certified Angus Beef® Chef’s Challenge and no Certified Angus Beef® at Home Contest this year.

To enter, visit the Auxiliary website, here. For questions about the contest, contact Anne Lampe at 670-8744273 or amlampe.al@gmail.com or Anne Patton Schubert at 502-548-2359.

AUCTIONEERS

www.jandjauction.com 575-485-2508 UPCOMING AUCTION May Equipment Online Auction May 21, 2022 – 9am

Items located throughout New Mexico & Colorado

College of Agricultural, Consumer, and Environmental Sciences

ANIMAL & RANGE SCIENCE

LIVESTOCK FOR SALE

• Dorper and Suffolk Sheep • Brahman, Brangus, and Angus Cattle • Swine

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RARE Lander Blue Squash Blossom Set SOLD $100,000

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14K Gold & Turq. Squash SOLD $15,000

BUY, SELL, TRADE, or AUCTION How can we help you?

Oleg Stravrowsky Painting SOLD $18,500 Shipwreck Silver Ingot SOLD $30,000 Certified Lander Turq. Collection SOLD $150,000

High Condition Henry Rifle SOLD $35,000 Engraved Henry Rifle SOLD $40,000

Upcoming Auctions: April 9th, May 14th and June 18th

TOUGH ENOUGH FOR BISON-TOUGH ENOUGH FOR CATTLE We met up with Brock Toler with Back Forty Bison and asked him a few questions about his opinion Brock is the ranch mana er on the effectiveness of the Lewis Cattle for Back Forty Bison near Dadeville, MO. Oilers. Brock was skeptical, at first, on the durability of the Oilers. Bison are notorious for tearin thin s up....flippin thin s over....To bison, everythin ’s a toy To this date, they haven’t tipped one over The durability has really been surprisin ” . The bi est thin that Brock loves about the Oiler is the efficiency.

“In the bison industry, the oiler pays for itself in one year” -Brock Toler, Back Forty Bison

"They are so efficient! With the fact that they are not gravity fed, I’m not losing a bunch of product on the ground! The pump administers only the amount that needs to be put out on the animal! With the Lewis Cattle Oiler, there is no waste. I can fill up the 8 gallon tank, on the Oiler, and it will last all summer long with the bison scratching on it ALL the time!” 940-781-4182/405-833-3209 WWW.USALEWISCATTLEOILERS.COM

Multiple Large Food Processing & Distribution Plants in US Have Recently Exploded or Burned Down

by Matt Agoris, thefreethoughtproject.com/

As food uncertainly lingers on the horizon thanks to US sanctions and government decimation of the economy during the past two years, there is another factor contributing to the problem. Since the beginning of the year, there have been several very large food processing facilities that have exploded or burned to the ground across the U.S.

Recently, a vegetable and nut processing facility in Dufur, Oregon became engulfed in flames for unknown reasons.

“Lights flickered; They heard a pop and went up there to check it out and there was a fire,” according to a report made to Wasco County 911 records listed in the Wasco County Sheriff’s log. The independent distributor of natural, organic an non-GMO foods which employees around 150 people, burned to the ground.

One week before that fire in Oregon, a massive fire brought down a meat processing plant in Conway, New Hampshire. After burning for 16 hours, multiple fire crews finally put out the fire at East Conway Beef and Pork but the facility is completely destroyed.

That same week, in Salinas, California, a massive fire at the Taylor Farms Processing Facility led to the evacuation of residents as it burned for over 17 hours. Taylor Farms is a major agriculture company that processes and delivers many of the salad kits seen in grocery stores. The cause of this fire is currently under investigation.

Just weeks before that, a massive fire engulfed a Walmart distribution center in Plainfield, Indiana where over 1,000 employees shipped food and other supplies all over the region. The fire destroyed the massive 1 million square foot operation.

That same week, one of the largest food facilities of its kind in South Texas caught fire and burned to the ground. Prior to burning down, the Rio Fresh facility in San Juan, Texas, grew, packed and shipped a

Leslie & Glenda Armstrong

Kevin & Renee Grant • 575-355-6621 • cornerstone@plateautel.net Justin & Kyra Monzingo • 575-914-5579 • monzingo_2016@yahoo.com 616 Pecan Drive, Ft. Sumner, NM 88119

Hereford & Angus Bulls & Heifers For Sale at Private Treaty • Registered & Commercial CORNERSTONERANCH.NET

SEVEN GENERATIONS HAVE BEEN RAISING CATTLE

LaMoyne’s great grandmother, Sophie

Pfingsten came from Trinidad, Colorado, to Angus, New Mexico, with a herd of cattle. Bar E X Brand belonged to Sophie

Pfingsten. She had the Bar E X brand at that time and registered it in the New

Mexico Territory at Las Vegas, New

Mexico, in 1881. Her husband was a gold miner and had little interest in the cattle.

Her daughter Emma Pfingsten Peters

Bragg, who was LaMoyne’s grandmother, continued to raise cattle in Lincoln

County.

Gilbert Peters, who was LaMoyne’s father, also continued to run cattle in

Lincoln County. LaMoyne’s mother was

Chloe Zumwalt Peters. She cared for an elderly man for years to help acquire the first piece of the ranch. LaMoyne was their only child. LaMoyne took his college money to buy more land in Lincoln

County. He and Opal Jones were married in 1941. Opal’s parents, D.O. and Mattie Jones, came to Lincoln County in 1914 and were farmers and ranchers who ran Hereford cattle also. Opal inherited some of her parent’s ranch which helped expand her and LaMoyne’s ranching operation. Opal Peters taught school in Capitan for 28 years. Much of her salary was used to expand and support the cattle ranch.

Glenda Peters Armstrong is LaMoyne’s & Opal’s only child. She married Leslie Armstrong in 1962. Leslie’s grandparents were also ranchers who ran Hereford cattle. Jim & Elizabeth Armstrong brought some of the first registered Hereford into Catron County and ran Hereford cattle in Catron County until the 1940s. His other set of grandparents, Sid & Edna Armstrong, ranched with Hereford cattle in Catron County until 1965. (Yes, both sides of his family were Armstrongs)

Leslie and Glenda have three children:

Renee Armstrong Grant (Kevin), Lynden Armstrong, and Tanya Armstrong Bequette. These three grandchildren have given LaMoyne and Opal four greatgrandchildren: Kyra Grant Monzingo (Justin), Rhett Grant (Makayla), Kenzie Bequette, and Kagan Bequette.

LaMoyne & Opal in their backyard, 1988.

HEREFORD

IT WAS ALWAYS GIL & LAMOYNE’S dream to have a ranch large enough to run a herd of registered Hereford cattle and a herd of registered Angus cattle. The long range plan was to use their own bulls on their commercial cattle. As Lincoln County became crowded with people it became evident that it would be necessary to expand somewhere else. In 1976 expansion was started into DeBaca County. Three ranches have now been purchased in DeBaca County. The first hay producing farm was purchased in 1979 in DeBaca County. Irrigated circles were also purchased and feed is now grown to background some of the calves. These purchases helped with the realization of the second part of LaMoyne’s & Opal’s dream – to produce some of their own feed for the cattle. In 2000 the ranch name was established as Cornerstone Ranch with Ephesians 2:20 as the ranch motto: Jesus Christ being the Chief Cornerstone. A registered Angus herd was started in 2005. Cross commercial cattle were also purchased in 2005. The next year it was plain to see that the commercial black calves were not near the cattle that the Hereford calves were, plus the fact that the Hereford calves outweighed the black calves by several pounds. The calf buyer made the following comment – when you have worked on your black cattle as long as you have the Herefords you will see a different set ofblack cattle from the ones you have today. In 2017 one of our buyers told us that we could paint our Hereford cattle black and our Angus cattle red and white and he wouldn’t be able to tell the difference. With the passion that LaMoyne instilled in his family, we strive to produce functional cattle that fit our southwest environment and fulfill his dream for our family. LaMoyne passed away in 2013. Today, four generations live and work on the ranch. Opal Peters turned 102 in December 2021. Glenda & Leslie Armstrong, Kevin & Renee Grant, and Justin & Kyra Monzingo, along with the rest of the family, strive to uphold vision and values that Gil & Chloe and Opal & LaMoyne instilled in the family in the day to day operations of the ranch. Give us a call sometime or come see us, we would love to visit!

LaMoyne Peters shooting a six-shooter from atop a pet bull. LaMoyne once returned an entire bull battery to the Peters Ranch while riding this bull and trailing the rest of the herd.

MOTLEY MILL & CUBE

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variety of Texas-grown items including Texas 1015 Sweet Onions, melons, greens, cabbage, and kale. The cause of the fire is currently unknown.

In Hermiston, Oregon, in February, a massive food processing facility suddenly exploded, injuring seven of the nearly 400 employees who work at the Shearer’s Foods Plant. According to reports, the cause of the explosion which originated near a boiler is still under investigation.

It’s not only food production and distribution plants either. In Maricopa, Arizona, in March, a massive fire wiped out the Maricopa Food Pantry which distributes food to the less fortunate. More than 50,000 lbs of food was destroyed in the blaze that lasted for 24 hours. That fire is also under investigation.

The fact is that since last year, more than a dozen of these fires and explosions have taken place at food processing and distribution centers.

To be clear, general warehouse fires are quite common. In fact, fire departments respond to more than 1,000 a year. However, the main cause of these fires is arson. What’s more, fires in food processing facilities are not that common and occur far less often.

To claim that all of these incidents are related would be pure speculation. But given the current supply chain situation and looming food shortages, the very idea of critical infrastructure burning to the ground for any reason, is unsettling to say the least.

Editor’s Note: Fires and explosions have impacted these plants as well: Bonanza Meat, El Paso, Texas; Tyson Plant, Alabama; Hot Pocket Plant, Jonesboro, Arkansas; Made-Rite Steaks, Pennsylvania; Wisconsin River Meats, Mautston, Wisconsin; Deli Star Meat Plant, Michigan; McCrum Potato Plant, Maine; Kelloggs Plant, Memphis, Tennessee; and CargillNutrena, Lecompte, Louisiana. However, they may not have been determined to be arson at press time. ▫

Torrance County 4-H Rodeo Results

Novice Barrels Day 1

1. Morgan Parra 2. Kaydence Killebrew 3. Bonnie Montoya 4. Bristol Shiver 5. Kenzi Acuna

Novice Pole

Bending Day 1

1. Danley Triplett 2. Macklee Cain 3. Kaydence Killebrew 4. Kenzi Acuna 5. Morgan Parra

Novice Ribbon Roping Day 1

1. Haxton Haynes

Novice Breakaway Day 1

1. Kasen May 2. Haxton Haynes 3. Graden Acuna 4. Lane Peralta

Novice Goat Tying Day 1

1. Macklee Cain 2. Bristol Shiver 3. Kenzi Acuna 4. Danley Triplett 5. Kaydence Killebrew

Novice Flag Race Day 1

1. Macklee Cain

2. Bonnie Montoya 3. Morgan Parra 4. Kaycee Younker 5. Danley Triplett

Junior Team Roping Day 1

1. Holt Haynes and Tate White

Novice Step Down Day 1

1. Kasen May 2. Haxton Haynes 3. Lane Peralta

Junior Ribbon Roping Day 1

1. Holt Haynes 2. Rody Mack

Junior Breakaway Day 1

1. Shiloh Young 2. Baylee Nunn 3. Tate White

Junior Goat Tying Day 1

1. Baylee Nunn 2. Kailenna Presley 3. Rody Mack 4. Sydney Triplett 5. Camarae Chavez

Junior Barrels Day 1

1. Sydney Triplett 2. Skyye Dombrowski 3. Anastasia Herrera 4. Andi Israel 5. Tammy Moon

Junior Pole Bending Day 1

1. Baylee Nunn 2. Andi Israel 3. Kailenna Presley 4. Camarae Chavez

5. Zaden Carl

Junior Bull Riding Day 1

1. Shiloh Young 2. Riley Cagle 3. Dominic Sanchez

Senior Tie Down Day 1

1. Cody Detweiler 2. Kaden May

Senior Breakaway Day 1

1. Addison Kinser 2. Zajayda Carl 3. Dalli Von Cain

Senior Ribbon Roping Day 1

1. Kaden May

Senior Goat Tying Day 1

1. McKinzee Shiver 2. Addison Kinser 3. Dalli Von Cain 4. Saraiah Chapman 5. Jami Telford

Senior Barrel Racing Day 1

1. McKinzee Shiver 2. Sariah Chapman 3. Dalli Von Cain 4. Kelsi Wilson 5. Jami Telford

Senior Pole Bending Day 1

1. Dalli Von Cain 2. Kelsi Wilson 3. Zajayda Carl 4. Sariah Chapman

Senior Tie Down Day 1

1. Zajayda Carl

Torrance Day 2 Results Novice Barrel Racing Day 2

1. Paislee Foster 2. Morgan Parra 3. Macklee Cain 4. Reiner McConnel 5. Kenzi Acuna

Novice Flag Race Day 2

1. Macklee Cain 2. Danley Triplett 3. Morgan Parra 4. Lane Peralta 5. Bristol Shiver

Novice Breakaway Day 2

1. Haxton Haynes 2. Paislee Foster 3. Reiner McConnel 4. Kasen May

Novice Step Down Day 2

1. Haxton Haynes 2. Lane Peralta

Novice Pole Bending Day 2

1. Danley Triplett 2. Macklee Cain 3. Kenzi Acuna 4. Holli Henry 5. Bonnie Montoya

Novice Goat Tying Day 2

1. Bristol Shiver 2. Macklee Cain 3. Danley Triplett 4. Morgan Parra 5. Kaydence Killebrew

Junior Barrels Day 2

1. Skyye Dombrowski 2. Sydney Triplett

3. Divina Valdez 4. Andi Israel 5. Tammy Moon

Junior Pole Bending Day 2

1. Anastasia Herrera 2. Skyye Dombrowski 3. Divina Valdez 4. Georgia Armstrong 5. Baylee Nunn

Junior Breakaway Day 2

1. Kailenna Presley 2. Zayne Carl 3. Rody Mack 4. Shiloh Young 5. Divina Valdez

Junior Ribbon Roping Day 2

1. Rody Mack 2. Tate White 3. Kailenna Presley

Junior Tie Down Day 2

1. Zayne Carl 2. Tate White

Junior Goat Tying Day 2

1. Baylee Nunn 2. Kailenna Presley 3. Shiloh Young 4. Tammy Moon 5. Johnna Vigil

Junior Team Roping Day 2

1. Holt Haynes and Tate White 2. Elyssia Lopez and Zayne Carl

Junior Bull Riding Day 2

1. Riley Cagle

2. Jaxon Romero

Senior Barrels Day 2

1. McKinzee Shiver 2. Addison Kinser 3. Sariah Chapman 4. Dalli Von Cain 5. Kelsi Wilson

Senior Saddle Bronc Day 2

1. Martin Rivera

Senior Breakaway Day 2

1. Dalli Von Cain 2. Kaden May 3. McKinzee Shiver

Senior Ribbon Roping Day 2

1. Kaden May

Senior Tie Down Day 2

1. Cody Detweiler 2. Kaden May

Senior Pole Bending Day 2

1. Sariah Chapman 2. Dalli Von Cain 3. Zajayda Carl 4. Addison Simmons 5. McKenna Romero

Senior Goat Tying Day 2

1. McKinzee Shiver 2. Addison Kinser 3. Dalli Von Cain 4. Jami Telford 5. Sariah Chapman

Senior Team Roping Day 2

1. Zajayda Carl 2. Elliott Lopez and Justin Anaya. ▫

Est.1944 SKAARER BRANGUS