Deming Horizons Volume 8

A STRONG AND GROWING ECONOMIC BASE Volume 8, COMPLIMENTARY

PEOPLE GENERATING

A POSITIVE DIFFERENCE IMPRESSIVE COLLECTIONS

INCREDIBLE MUSEUM

MARIACHI MUSIC LIKE NOWHERE ELSE VOLUNTEERS KEEP STATE PARKS VIBRANT AND BEAUTIFUL MEDICAL FACILITIES OFFER QUALITY TREATMENT

Ready to Move to a Larger Home or Relocate to Southwest New Mexico?

Have you outgrown your current home, wish for a better lifestyle, or desire to relocate to a county that provides the most sunshine for your investment dollar?

We offer a fine selection of country homes, desert properties, retirement communities, golf properties and businesses for sale in Luna County and Southwest New Mexico.

Let our relocation experts aid you with this important move.

Michele “Micki” Shillito

Ruth E. Stallard

Sean Blaine

April Gallagher Associate Broker

Qualifying Broker/Owner

Qualifying Broker in Charge

Associate Broker

Cell: 575-494-2610

Cell: 575-545-7277

Cell: 575-936-0399

Cell: 575-545-3402

micki@ucdowntown.com

ruth.stallard@gmail.com

seacave2@gmail.com

admcgallagher@gmail.com

Downtown Real Estate

211 S. Silver Ave. • Deming, NM 88030 Office: 575-544-8890 • Fax: 575-544-8891 •

www.ucdowntown.com

1 – DEMING HORIZONS ziapublishing.com

NEW MEXICO

FAST FACTS State Capital: Santa Fe Statehood: January 6, 1912 State Flag: Red Zia on field of gold State Ballad: Land of Enchantment State Motto: Crescit Eundo (It Grows as It Goes) State Poem: A Nuevo Mexico State Songs: Oh, Fair New Mexico and Asi Es Nuevo Mexico State Cookie: Biscochito State Tie: Bolo Tie State Gem: Turquoise State Tree: Piñon State Flower: Yucca State Grass: Blue Gramma State Animal: Black Bear State Bird: Roadrunner State Fish: Rio Grande Cutthroat Trout State Insect: Tarantula Hawk Wasp State Fossil: Coelophysis State Question: “Red or Green?”

Land Area: 121,599 sq. miles Population: 2,085,538 Highest Point: Wheeler Peak (13,161 feet) Lowest Point: Red Bluff Reservoir (2,842 feet) State website: www.newmexico.org

MILEAGE TO

CONTENTS FEATURES Economic Base. Development of renewable energy places Luna County in an enviable position, while agriculture, food processing, tourism and retail remain strong.

6

The Faces of Deming. The community’s strength has always been its people and featured are a few of those who continue to make a positive difference.

10

The Mimbres Collection. The Deming Luna Mimbres Museum has an outstanding display of ancient southwest pottery and artifacts… and much, much more.

12

Friends of the Park. Volunteers contribute to the beauty, sustainability and educational aspects of Rockhound and Pancho Villa State Parks.

14

Medical Options. Deming’s excellent medical facilities include quality treatment options that reduce travel requirements and costs.

19

Day trip to Silver City. Historic Silver City sits on the edge of the scenic three million acre Gila National Forest.

20

Deming High School Mariachi Program. No other school can compete with the number of students who learned the art of mariachi music under the direction of retired instructor, Al Valverde.

DEMING Alamogordo - 127 miles Albuquerque - 233 miles Boston, MA - 2,678 miles Carlsbad - 267 miles Chicago, IL - 1,717 miles Dallas, TX - 742 miles Denver, CO - 686 miles El Paso, TX - 102 miles Farmington - 415 miles Gallup - 309 miles Glenwood - 121 miles Grand Canyon, AZ - 476 miles Houston, TX - 855 miles Lake Roberts - 84 miles Las Cruces - 59 miles Lordsburg - 69 miles Los Angeles, CA - 708 miles New York City - 2,308 miles Palomas, Mexico - 35 miles Phoenix, AZ - 336 miles Portales - 335 miles Roswell - 244 miles Ruidoso - 173 miles San Diego, CA - 630 miles San Francisco, CA - 1,088 miles Santa Fe - 292 miles Seattle, WA - 1,850 miles Silver City - 53 miles Socorro - 156 miles Taos - 362 miles Truth or Consequences - 85 miles Tucson, AZ - 224 miles Washington DC - 2,195 miles White Sands - 91 miles

VISITOR INFORMATION Deming Visitor Center: 575-567-1962 demingvisitor@gmail.com www.DemingVisitorCenter.webs.com Top Annual Events: Great American Duck Race 888-345-1125 www.demingduckrace.com Rockhound Roundup 575-543-8915

2 – DEMING HORIZONS ziapublishing.com

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9

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RESOURCES 2

New Mexico Fast Facts Mileage to Deming Deming Visitor Information

3

Advertisers Index

4

Weather Recreation Transportation Interstates & Highways

6

Religious Organizations Community Organizations Pet Policies

City Services Art and Culture Area Wineries Deming Area Lodging Deming Area Dining

12

Calendar of Annual Events Utility Providers Radio Stations

13

New Mexico State Parks Events

14

Financial Institutions Educational Institutions Health Care Services and Facilities

HORIZONS DEMING

ABOUT THE COVER Vineyards and wineries are an important segment of Luna County’s agriculture base, growing grapes for the majority of New Mexico wineries and producing its own nationally acclaimed wines. Green chile, onions, alfalfa hay, cotton and pecans continue to be fundamental county exports, while renewable energy and shoppers from Mexico are boosting the local economy.

Photo by Joe Burgess.

A RELOCATION LIFESTYLE GUIDE

Terri Menges

President & Managing Director

Joseph Burgess Vice President & Photo Journalist

Arlyn Cooley Staff Accountant

LeAnne Knudsen Advertising Sales

Joseph Burgess

Writing & Photography except where noted

Terri Menges Debra Sutton Designers

Kate McGraw

Contributing Writer

Gila Regional Medical Center LeAnne Knudsen Silver City ACD

Contributing Photographers

Special Thanks to: Allard Bartlett Melinda Bartlett

MaryKay Brady Kevin & Lori Coleman Michelle Diaz, M.D. Cindy Donatelli Mary Galbraith Laura Howell Virginia Pool Dr. Norman Ratliff Mark Schultze Micki Shillito Linda Smrkovsky Al Valverde

Deming Horizons is published annually by Zia Publishing Corp. P.O. Box 1248, 116 McKinney Road, Silver City, NM 88062. Phone: 575-388-4444 Fax: 575-5343333 info@ziapublishing.com www.ziapublishing.com ©Zia Publishing Corp., 2014.

This issue of Deming Horizons is copyrighted under the laws of the United States of America. All rights reserved. Repro-duction in whole or part without per-

mission of the publisher prohibited. For permission to use any portion of this publication email:info@ziapublishing.com All editorial and photographic submissions are accepted explicitly without risk to the publisher for loss or damage. Every effort is made to ensure accuracy in the information provided. The publisher assumes no responsibility or liability for errors, changes or omissions.

ADVERTISERS Accommodations Bear Creek Motel & Cabins . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 13 Grand Motor Inn . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .21 Quality Inn - Deming . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .5 Art Galleries & Framing Deming Arts Center . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 11 JW Art Gallery . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .11 Artists Joe Wade . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 11 Banking 1st New Mexico Bank . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3 Wells Fargo Bank . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 17 Building Materials Mule Creek Adobe . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .18 Camps & Retreats Camp Thunderbird Group Camp & Retreat Center . .22 Chamber of Commerce Deming Luna County Chamber of Commerce . . . .23 Lordsburg Hidalgo Co. Chamber of Commerce . . . 23 Silver City Grant County Chamber of Commerce .23 City & County Govrnment City of Deming . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .24 County of Luna . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .24 Communications Providers WNM Communications . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .1 Developmental Disability Services Life Quest . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .236 Events Great American Duck Race . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .24 Dog Grooming The Turquoise Poodle . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .24 Grocery & Meat Markets Peppers Supermarket . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 23 Home Decor & Furnishings Furniture Gallery, Inc. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 23 Medical Centers & Hospitals Border Area Mental Health Services . . . . . . . . . . . .24 Cassie Health Center for Women . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 16 Gila Regional Medical Center . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .15 Silver Health CARE . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .17 Medical Supplies Melinda’s Medical Supply . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .18 Museums Deming Luna Mimbres Museum . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 11 Organizations and Centers Friends of Rockhound State Park . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .13 Plumbing Supplies & Service Lester’s Plumbing & Heating . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .24 Portable Buildings Graceland Portable Buildings / Coast To Coast Carports . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .22 Propane Service Griffin’s Propane/Fuel Centers . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 16 Real Estate and Developments United Country Downtown Real Estate . . . . . . . . .C2 XYZ Ranch Estates . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .22 Rock Shop Spanish Stirrup Rock Shop . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 24 RV Parks 81 Palms RV Resort . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3 Shopping Deming Luna Mimbres Museum Shop . . . . . . . . . . 11 Heart’s Desire . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .24 Mary’s Perfume & Jewelry . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 24 University Western New Mexico University . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 21 Visitor Centers Deming Visitor Center . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . C4 Murray Ryan Visitor Center . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 19 Winery St. Clair Winery . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5

Founded in 1962, First New Mexico Bank is a hometown bank serving a diverse and growing region. At our locations in Deming, Columbus, Hatch, Las Cruces, Anthony and Silver City, our friendly staff is dedicated to treating each customer as family. We ’re committed to excellent service, delivering quality products, continued community involvement and nothing but the best for our customers.

As we grow and the region grows, one thing will remain the same: we ’ll always strive to meet the needs of each unique community where we are located.

“We’ve got the Hometown Spirit!”

We can help with your financial needs.

Full Service Lender FHA, VA, USDA Guaranteed, Conventional, Construction, Purchases and Refinance.

LOCATIONS

Main Office - 300 S. Gold Ave. • 575-546-2691 Peppers Branch - 1501 S. Columbus Rd. Hwy. 11 • 575-546-2691 ATM inside Peppers Supermarket - 812 E. Florida St. Columbus Branch - 202 S. Main, Columbus, NM • 575-531-2643 Hatch Branch - 509 N. Franklin Rd., Hatch, NM • 575-267-8832

NMLS #435177

DEMING HORIZONS – 3

WEATHER Deming/Luna County is located in the high Chihuahua Desert along the US-Mexico border in southwestern New Mexico.

90 80 70

DEMING/LUNA COUNTY’S

ECONOMIC BASE

Agriculture Renewable Energy Tourism Museums State Parks

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WRITTEN AND PHOTOGRAPHED BY JOE BURGESS

50 40 30 20

H L

Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun

Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sep Oct Nov Dec

H

L

P

57 62 68 76 85 95

26 29 34 41 49 59

.41" .52" .42" .25" .22" .43"

H

Jul Aug Sep Oct Nov Dec

95 92 88 78 66 57

L

P

65 1.86" 63 1.69” 57 1.35” 45 .76” 33 .42” 27 .64”

H - High L - Low P - Average Precipitation (Inches) Average annual precipitation - 9 inches Average winter temperatures - 59° - 27° Average summer temperatures - 94° - 62° Average spring temperatures - 76° - 41° First frost – About November Last frost – About April 15 Average annual snowfall – 3 inches (gone within hours) Average humidity in July – 25% Average wind speed - below 11 mph Average days of sunshine per year – 340+ 191 clear days, 99 partly cloudy days, 72 cloudy days Elevation – 4,335 feet above sea level Driest months of the year – April and May Wettest months of the year – July, August and September

RECREATION Golf Course: Rio Mimbres Golf Course 546-0136 Motor Sports: Arroyo Seco Motor Plex 544-3440 Nearby Ghost Town: Shakespeare 542-9034 Nearby New Mexico State Parks: Caballo Lake State Park 743-3942 City of Rocks State Park 536-2800 Elephant Butte Lake State Park 744-5923 Pancho Villa State Park 531-2711 Percha Dam State Park 743-3942 Rockhound State Park 546-6182 Spring Canyon State Park 546-6182 Outdoor Attractions: Florida Mountains, Florida Peak - 7,295 ft.

Public Park & Entertainment Complex: Voiers Pit Park Water Sports: Sam Baca Aquatic Center 546-7958 TRANSPORTATION Airports: Deming Municipal Airport 544-3660 El Paso International Airport 915-780-4749 Bus Lines: Corre Caminos Transit 866-934-3866 Greyhound Bus Line 546-3881 Las Cruces Shuttle Service 800-288-1784 Railway: Amtrak 800-872-7245 INTERSTATES AND HIGHWAYS I-10 travels east-west I-25 is 59 miles east of Deming US Hwy 180 North to Silver City State Rd 11 south to Palomas, Mexico State Rd 26 east to Hatch

FAST FACTS Founded - 1881 Elevation - 4,335 feet Deming Population - 15,296 Luna County Population - 27,227

4 – DEMING HORIZONS ziapublishing.com

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una County has developed a broad and expanding economic base.

Agriculture remains strong and renewable energy is growing at an enviable pace. Tourism related to its museums and state parks is stable and retail received a boost from Mexican shoppers who are now allowed to travel as far north as Interstate 10 with their visas.

Green chile, onions, alfalfa hay and cotton are major players in the agriculture sector with pecans continuing to gain market share. Luna County is New Mexico’s leading grape grower and is home to its largest winery and winner of national competitions, St. Clair Winery. State-of-the-art greenhouses produce certified organic products using sustainable and socially responsible practices.

The acquisition of Border Foods by Mizkan Americas, an American-owned Japanese company, gives the local processor global access for its products, and it is gearing up for a major expansion at the local facility. The development of meaty, thin-skinned chile by The Penn Farms adds a local advantage, as does the grafting expertise of local vintner Paulo D’Andrea. Local growers have converted to drip-system watering that both conserves water and reduces labor costs.

Luna County is a natural for alternative energy. Retired Deming-Luna County Economic Development Executive Director, Linda Smrkovsky, states it’s a combination of business incentives, weather and land availaility. Wind patterns are conducive to wind generation and the fact that Luna County and a portion of Hidalgo County lead the country in available sunshine is the magnet for both solar and algae. First Solar is completing a 50 MW solar field at Macho Springs, New Mexico’s largest solar power plant, complimenting the

Rated one of the Best Hotels in New Mexico The BEST free Breakfast Buffet in town • Completely renovated with all new Serta Perfect Beds Relax in the largest and nicest courtyard in town • Cool off in our outdoor swimming pool Kids 12 and under stay and eat free • Pet friendly • Suites with large jacuzzi tubs Free High Speed Internet Access • Exterior room entrances

Off I-10 @ Exit 85 • 4600 E. Pine St. • Deming, NM 88030

575-546-2661 • www.QualityInn.com Lazy Lizard Bar & Grill

wind energy already being produced there and the PNM solar field south of Deming. Power grid access will improve with new transmission lines proposed by Southline Transmission Project and SunZia Southwest Transmission Project.

Serving a tasteful selection of great food in our comfortable dining room. Relax and watch the game on three TVs while enjoying your favorite cocktail in the bar.

The world’s first commercial algaeto-energy demonstration facility continues to ramp up in Columbus. The product can be transported and refined the same as petroleum, but with a reduced carbon footprint, it utilizes brackish water and the high-protein byproduct can be reused in the process or utilized for cattle and fish food – another exciting option for an energy-hungry nation.

opposite: Crops and cattle provide the economic base for Luna County, which also account for growth in food processing and wine production. above: Onions continue to be a major agriculture player in Luna county while pecan orchards are on the upswing.

DEMING HORIZONS – 5

CITY SERVICES City of Deming Offices 575-546-8848 Emergency: Dial 911 for all emergencies Fire Department, Non-Emergency: Deming Fire Department 546-2701 Law Enforcement, Non-Emergency: Deming Police 546-3011 Luna County Sheriff 546-2655 NM State Police 546-3481 Post Office: Deming Post Office 546-9461 Senior Citizen Center: Beckett Senior Citizens Center 546-8823

ART & CULTURE The Arts: Deming Arts Center 546-3663 Morgan Hall 545-8872 Historic Walking Tour 546-2674 Tumbleweed Theater 531-2311 Libraries: Columbus Library 531-2612 Marshall Memorial Library 546-9202 Museums: Columbus Historical Museum 531-2620 Deming Luna Mimbres Museum 546-2382 Pancho Villa State Park Museum 531-2711

WINERIES Luna Rossa Winery 544-1160 St. Clair Winery 546-1179

LODGING Hotels & Motels - 17 RV Parks - 15 Bed & Breakfast - 1

DINING Coffee Shops - 3 Donut & Pastry Shops - 2 Fast Food - 11 Pizza - 3 Restaurants - 28

RELIGIOUS

ORGANIZATIONS Churches - 20

COMMUNITY

ORGANIZATIONS Clubs & Volunteer Organizations - 74

PET POLICIES PET FRIENDLY COMMUNITY Number of Pets Limit: No more than 4 animals may be kept at one city residence-any combination of dogs, cats and potbellied pigs.

Dog Off Premise Leash Law: When off premise, dogs must be restrained by a leash not exceeding 6 feet in length. An exception is when the owner or keeper physically carries or holds said animal.

Cat and Dog License Fees: Intact M/F cat or dog-$5.00. Spayed/Neutered cat or dog-$3.00 Vaccination Clinics: Deming Animal Clinic 3 times a year Humane Society Adoption Fees: Cats-$35.00. Dogs-$55.00, Senior Discount Fee includes rabies shot if the animal has not had one, city/county license and spaying or neutering of your new pet. A local veterinarian at the Deming Animal Clinic can do the spaying or neutering. The Mary Jessica Fund will pay up to 50% ($50.00) to spay or neuter pets of qualifying low-income families. Call 575-5462024 for more information.

Deming Animal Guardians (a non-profit organization): Deming Animal Guardians provide spaying or neutering discounts and low cost specials. 575-544-2209.

Pet Boarding: 2 Pet Supplies & Food: 2 Pet Grooming Services: 3 Veterinarians: 2

6 – DEMING HORIZONS ziapublishing.com

THE FACES OF DEMING caring creative independent

WRITTEN & PHOTOGRAPHED BY JOE BURGESS

Mark Shultze General Manager, Peppers Supermarket “I love the business relationships that develop with our customers, “states Mark Schultze, General Manager of Peppers Supermarket. “We try to maintain a comfortable atmosphere for our shoppers and a good place for our employees to work.”

Mark was born and raised in Deming and like many locals, left to pursue a career elsewhere. He was involved with commercial insurance and investment banking before returning home in 1992 and became managing partner at Peppers. Pepper’s consumer service area includes the surrounding region that extends into northern Mexico.

“We have been blessed with a successful business.” Mark continues, “and we try to help the community whenever we can. It is a privilege to be in a position to support the groups that strive to make Deming a better place to live.” Mark mentioned that the murals on the walls were painted by a local art teacher, the type of project that not only creates good will, it contributes to a more attractive setting for shoppers Peppers is continuously searching for ways to improve the shopping experience and strives to maintain the service and product availability that keep customers returning. Mark was selected 2013 Business Person of the Year by the Chamber of Commerce.

Micki Shillito Owner/Broker, United Country Downtown Real Estate Micki Shillito’s life is about passion. Those who know her on a personal or business basis know she is adamant about being at the forefront of life. A realtor and broker since the late 1970s, she has served as Executive Director New Jersey Real Estate Commission and Executive Officer of the Philadelphia Association of Realtors and the Santa Fe Association of Realtors.

In 2003, she “retired” in Deming and opened United Country Downtown Real Estate May 2011.

Micki was familiar with Deming from trips through the area and from weekends considering a place to settle. “Santa Fe was too busy and after meeting some of the wonderful people in Deming, it became an easy choice. Locals have made me feel like I’m at home – part of the community and neighbors go out of their way to help each other.”

Micki is a Rotarian, an Elk and a member of P.E.O. and the Chamber of Commerce.

MaryKay Brady Former President, Friends of Rockhound State Park and Master Gardener “Thirty-six years ago, Jim and I were working in Denver banks,” relates MaryKay Brady, “and were tired of the city. As an avid reader of Mother Earth News, Jim really wanted to get his hands dirty. We bought 30 acres south of Deming, built a house and corrals and had a one-acre garden. I cooked on a wood stove and we often met the kids at the school bus on horseback. It was a great life.” Jim and MaryKay both became Master Gardeners and active members of the Deming Garden Club and Friends of Rockhound State Park. Jim was president of the garden club for 10 years.

MaryKay worked at 1st New Mexico Bank and Jim established and managed Brady’s Feed Store and Shamrock station for 10 years. She moved into town after Jim passed away and continued her tireless efforts as President of the Rockhound group and President of her homeowners association. “The Friends membership has good depth – good bones that will allow future leadership to continue making improvements to our park.”

Kevin & Lori Coleman Owners, Spanish Stirrup Rock Shop Gorgeous rocks? Indeed, they are unbelievably beautiful! Kevin and Lori Coleman specialize in New Mexico thundereggs in their Spanish Stirrup Rock Shop adjacent to Rockhound State Park and have access to a treasure trove of regional and Mexican agates, minerals and geodes. Probably 60 percent of their business is with avid European collectors, but there are plenty of rocks for everyone. The shop has one of the largest assortments of rock from the southwest.

After 30 years of farming in Mississippi, the couple relocated to Deming because of their interest in the area’s incredible thundereggs and proximity to Mexican agate. Needing to get rid of some of Kevin’s accumulated collectables, they opened the rock shop in 2011 and it turned into an exciting business venture.

“We’ve grown to love Deming,” says Kevin. “The locals are friendly, salt-ofthe-earth folks. Deming was a good choice for us.” Lori is the 2014 Chamber of Commerce President.

DEMING HORIZONS – 7

Arsen & Edward Khanbabaian Grand Motor Inn In 1979, Orbel Khanbabaian and Yolande were searching the country for a place to relocate when they spotted the Grand Hotel in Deming. It was exactly the type of property they had been hoping to find. For their sons and daughters who had spent their childhoods in Los Angeles, however, relocating to Deming was quite a culture shock.

Years later, having adopted Deming as home, the Khanbabaian sons, Arsen and Eddie, are now splitting the duties of managing the hotel property. “Deming has been good to our families and in turn, we actively support the efforts that strengthen our community – make it a better place to live and work.” Eddie serves on the Chamber of Commerce Board while Arsen is Chair of the DUI and Deming-Luna County Tourism Boards, Treasurer of the Economic Development Board and serves on the MainStreet Board. He is also involved with an energetic group calling itself “The” Committee that has taken responsibility for the 4th of July, Cinco de Mayo and Chile Festival celebrations.

“We have learned a lot about the hospitality industry over the years,” said Arsen, “and we share our experience through Southwestern Area Workforce Development, hoping to attract the next generation of hoteliers.”

Teresa Molina President, 1st New Mexico Bank Raised on farms in Mexico and the United States, Teresa Molina earned her high school diploma from Deming High School and Business Administration degree from New Mexico State University. She started as a teller at 1st New Mexico Bank in 1983 and took over the reins as President in 2006. Officers of this community-oriented bank are involved in local issues and events with Teresa actively participating with Silver Spikes and Rotary International.

Early in her career, Teresa was recognized by the Federal Reserve for her efforts to package the first Small Business Administration 504 loan in New Mexico, even prior to the state being certified, and she was recognized as a MainStreet Volunteer of the Year. She has served on the board of Mimbres Valley Authority for 10 years, which has successfully lobbied for federal grants that helped construct the Senior Citizens Center, the Learning Center, Humane Society facility and the Columbus swimming pool.

For the bank staff, Teresa is focused on instilling a work and service ethic that will propel the bank into the future. Her personal goal is to become a good golfer and she and husband Ricardo are excited about their new roles as grandparents.

8 – DEMING HORIZONS

ziapublishing.com

Virginia Pool Director, Deming Luna Mimbres Museum “A group of around 55 volunteers makes visiting the Deming Luna Mimbres Museum a very personal experience,” comments Director Virginia Pool. “They are knowledgeable of the area’s history, handle the day-to-day operations and anxiously share their story with visitors.” Well-managed displays provide a vivid image of the eras represented and there are diverse major collections ranging from geodes to ancient pottery as well as smaller, more intimate personal items. Groupings of farm and military equipment are also included.

Virginia retired from Wells Fargo where she was a senior vice president in charge of operations. She followed her late husband, Art, to Deming when he was transferred from Arizona. He later took responsibility for rebuilding the original Custom House across from the museum. Virginia joined the museum board in 1996 and has served four years as Director. She was honored as the 2013 Chamber of Commerce Outstanding Citizen of the Year.

Mary Galbraith Executive Director, Deming-Luna County Chamber of Commerce

Allard Bartlett Donor, Mimbres Artifact Collection to Deming Luna Mimbres Museum “I spent 469 days excavating ancient Mimbres dwelling sites between1986 and 2006,” stated Allard Bartlett who recently donated his collection of Mimbres artifacts to the Deming Luna Mimbres Museum.

Originally, he had hoped to create a museum in Hurley to house the collection, but was unable to work out the details. The Deming museum agreed to display the entire work, adding to its already impressive displays of prehistoric artifacts.

Allard retired from Kennecott Copper in Hurley, where he worked for 35 years in positions including Crusher General Foreman, Smelter Superintendent and Maintenance Superintendent. The late John King first tweaked his interest in the ancient ruins and they frequently worked together on sites under the auspices of Archeologist Joe Janes, the principal investigator for the dig.

The collection includes corrugated and intricately painted bowls, arrowheads, utensils and even tiny sixteenth inch beads utilized by the ancient people of the Mimbres Culture.

“As a representative of our member businesses and the community, my directive is to help create a dynamic business atmosphere,” states Mary Galbraith in her fourth year as Executive Director of the Deming-Luna County Chamber of Commerce. “The Chamber provides opportunities for sharing ideas and training options for improving business skills.” Well qualified for the position, she holds a Bachelor of Science degree from the University of Toledo and previously served as national sales manager for the fiber optics division of Remee Wire and Cable for 16 years.

Mary had discovered the lure of the Southwest through her business travels.

“Moving to the high desert from New York has been a welcome cultural change and I absolutely do not miss shoveling snow.

Deming is an extremely supportive community that comes together when someone is in need. The diversification of talent here is amazing, contributing to a healthy and growing economy. We should all be trading with businesses that not only pay taxes here, they continuously support local functions and events. It absolutely pays to shop locally.”

DEMING HORIZONS – 9

THE DEMING LUNA MIMBRES MUSEUM

MCIMBRES OLLECTION

A

jewel of the Southwest, the Deming Luna Mimbres Museum provides an excellent excuse for exiting Interstate 10 and for regular outings by locals. Numerous well-designed displays vividly represent the area’s history. The collections are quite frankly, incredible, starting with large displays of Southwest New Mexico’s ancient artifacts donated by collectors John King in 1996, Allard Bartlett in 2012, and Bill Whitacher in 2013. Most of the artifacts are from the Mimbres culture, famous for its black on white geometric designs and artistic animal and human representations on pottery. One of the bowls from Bartlett’s collection may be the only Mimbres bowl in existence with a band-tailed pigeon painted on it.

You also may be impressed by a collection of 6000 geodes, a thousand dolls from around the world with related items dating back to 1796 or perhaps the 2000 liquor-bottle collection. The Military Room includes memorabilia from forts dating back to the 1860s, the Pancho Villa Raid of 1916 and the subsequent punitive expedition let by “Blackjack” Pershing.

The heart of the museum is the 14,000-square foot armory building, the state’s first such facility built in 1916.

An additional 4,880-square feet of display space was constructed in 1988 and another 5,880 in 1998.

10 – DEMING HORIZONS ziapublishing.com

“NOT JUST A PLACE...

BUT A DESTINATION”

One of the Largest Mimbres Pottery Exhibits Gem & Mineral Ranch & Farm • Doll Room Military Room • China & Glassware • Main Street • Art Gallery

575-546-2382 • 301 S. SILVER AVE. • DEMING, NM W W W. L U N A C O U N T Y H I S T O R I C A L S O C I E T Y. C O M

J W

ART GALLERY

Fine Art • Gift Shop • Museum

Custom Picture Framing (expert design assistance)

Mats • Dry Mounting Photo & Art Restoration & Conservation Monotype Workshops

537.0300 Hours: Wed.-Fri. 9-5 Sat.-Sun. 10-5 Preview Artists:

www.jwartgallery.com

99 Cortez Avenue • Hurley NM

New & Exciting Exhibits Monthly.

Located at 100 S. Gold Ave. in Historic Downtown Deming, NM Little Gallery Art Store features original fine arts & crafts by regional artists, gifts, and greeting cards.

Open Tues. - Sat. 10am to 4pm • 575.546.3663 • demingarts@hotmail.com

DEMING HORIZONS – 11

ANNUAL EVENTS January Chamber of Commerce Gala. 575-546-2674 March Bi-Nacional Cabalgata. Village of Columbus.

575-531-2620 Rockhound Roundup. 575-543-8915 Student Art Show. 575-546-3663 April Old Timers Reunion. 575-546-3200 Smokin Oldies Car & Motorcycle Show.

575-546-6243 Annual Easter Egg Hunt. 575-743-3942 May Cinco de Mayo Festival. 575-567-1962 June Luna Rossa Wine Festival. 575-544-1160 www.LunaRossaWinery.com Luna County Artists Show. 575-546-3663 Kool Tunes. Fridays Jun-Oct. 575-546-1179 July 4th of July Festival. 575-567-1962 Fireworks Display. SWNM State Fairgrounds.

Men’s Golf Tournament. 575-546-9481 August Great American Duck Races. 888-345-1125 www.demingduckrace.com Fine Arts Photography Show. 575-546-3663 Chile Festival. 575-567-1962 September St. Anne’s Fiesta. Courthouse Park. 575-546-3343 Southwestern NM State Fair. 575-543-5736 October St. Clair Wine Festival. 575-546-1179 www.StClairVineyards.com Black Range Artists, Inc. Membership Show.

575-546-3663 Czechoslovakian Klobase B-B-Q Festival.

Courthouse park. 575-546-9783 December Christmas Light Parade. 575-546-2674 Christmas Market. 575-546-3663 Deming Luna Mimbres Museum Green Tea Reception. 575-546-2382 For information on events and event dates, please contact the Deming Visitor Center at 575-567-1962 www.demingvisitorcenter.webs.com

UTILITY PROVIDERS ELECTRIC SERVICE: Columbus Electric Cooperative 546-8838 PNM Electric Service 546-6535 NATURAL GAS SERVICE: City of Deming Gas Dept. 546-8848 New Mexico Gas Service 888-664-2726 PROPANE SERVICE: Columbus LP Gas 531-2577 Deming Propane 546-9012 Fox I-10 Chevron, Inc. 546-7459 Griffin’s Propane Co., Inc. 546-4166 ServiGas/Ikard & Newsom 546-0001 TELEPHONE SERVICE: Alltel 800-255-8351 CenturyLink 800-244-1111 Verizon Wireless 800-922-0204 WNM Communications 855-597-9662 TELEVISION SERVICE: Comcast Cable TV 800-934-6489 DirecTV 800-531-5000 Dish Network 800-990-3639 CenturyLink DirecTV 855-687-2806

RADIO STATIONS 1230 AM KOTS - Country 94.3 FM KDEM - Hot AC 93.5 FM KRWG - Public 89.5 FM KJSM - Gospel

12 – DEMING HORIZONS ziapublishing.com

Pancho Villa State Park

FRIENDS of the PARK

PROGRAMS

olunteers and volunteer groups are an integral part of many New Mexico state parks. They help maintain the parks, beautify them, provide fundraisers for particular park needs and provide countless informational and educational programs.

Friends of Rockhound is a non-profit volunteer organization that assists with the enhancement and preservation of Rockhound State Park east of Deming and the promotion of park activities. It maintains a native plant demonstration garden dedicated to flora of the Chihuahuan Desert and coordinates presentations and demonstrations on subjects ranging from folklore and geology to star gazing.

Profits from special events, gift sales and plant sales go directly toward the enhancement of the park. The group works closely with park superintendent Robert Apodaca and the County Extension office.

Friends of Pancho Villa State Park on the border at Columbus serve as camp hosts, exhibit hall hosts and they help as needed with special projects. Volunteers from Columbus and Deming are involved with special events like Camp Furlong Day, a major international friendship celebration, and Pancho’s Car Show. Proceeds from the sale of gifts and raffle tickets help support park events. Park Manager and Heritage Educator John Read coordinates and oversees projects and events.

For more information visit www.friendsofrockhound.org and www.emnrd.state. nm.us/SPD.panchovillastatepark

V

above: Pancho Villa State Park utilizes volunteers to maintain the cactus gardens and to help with events. opposite: Friends of Rockhound State Park developed and maintains the native plant demonstration garden near the Visitor Center. The group also promotes educational programs and fund-raising events.

Friends of

New Mexico State Parks

Rockhound State Park

EVENTS

A rockhounder’s paradise for collecting semi-precious stones, bird watching, hiking, wildlife sightings and learning about native plants.

575-546-6182 www.FriendsofRockhound.org

Attend our annual special events: Desert Alive! & Spring Native Plant Sale Saturday, April 12th, 8am to noon

ROCKHOUND STATE PARK EVENTS Visitor Center: 575-546-6182 MARCH Stars-n-Parks. 2nd Sat. 8:30-10:30pm.

The National Public Observatory will host a telescope program on the night skies.

APRIL Desert Alive and Native Plant Sale! 2nd Sat. 8am-12noon. A Salute to Spring. 8am until all plants are sold. Native and adapted plants, and cactus for sale. Celebrate spring with a salute to the wildflowers, bees, butterflies, hummingbirds and other pollinators.

Guided walks, talks and programs.

MAY Music in the Park. 3rd Sat. 6-8pm. "Three's Country" a local Deming trio, playing country and rock'n roll. Bring your lawn chairs and join us in the fun. Light refreshments available. Donations cheerfully accepted.

Location: Group Shelter JUNE Music in the Park. 3rd Sat.6-8pm. "Loose Blues Band" from Silver City performing oldies and blues on guitar, harmonica, bass and drums. Bring your lawn chairs and join us in the fun. Light refreshments available. Donations cheerfully accepted.

Location: Group Shelter JULY Music in the Park. 3rd Sat. 6-8pm.

Brandon Perrault a popular entertainer from Silver City, performing a variety of guitar and vocal numbers. Bring your lawn chairs and join us in the fun. Light refreshments available. Donations cheerfully accepted.

Location: Group Shelter AUGUST Music in the Park. 3rd Sat. 6-8pm. A double Header; Justin Reyes, a young guitarist/vocalist and Veronika Barnes, accordionist/vocalist. Light refreshments available. Donations cheerfully accepted.

Location: Group Shelter

Music in the Park 3rd Saturday 6pm to 8pm May, June, July and August

Rockhound State Park

SEPTEMBER Mariachi and Ballet Folklorico. 3rd Saturday. 6-8pm. Grab your family, friends and neighbors and take a short drive to the park for a terrific evening of local talent.

Fall Plant Sale. 4th Saturday. 6-8pm.

There will be a variety of native plants from $6-$16 and master gardeners there to assist.

DECEMBER Holiday Lights. 2nd Saturday. 5-6:30pm.

Over 1000 luminarias light the paths around the Visitor Center and Native Garden. Make it part of your holiday tradition with coffee, hot cocoa, cider, Mexican cookies and carols as part of the enchantment.

Mariachi and Ballet Folkloric Saturday, September 20th, 6pm to 8 pm Fall Native Plant Sale Saturday, September 27th, 8am to noon Holiday Lights with over 1,000 Luminarias Saturday, December 14th, 5pm to 6:30pm

Call for schedule or visit www.nmparks.com

PANCHO VILLA STATE PARK EVENTS Visitor Center: 575-531-2711 MARCH Camp Furlong Day. 9am-6pm.

Commemorating Pancho Villa’s raid on Columbus, NM on March 9, 1916, and the subsequent Punitive Expedition led by General John J. “Black Jack” Pershing into Mexico in pursuit of Villa. Pancho Villa State Park hosts a series of special guest speakers in the park’s Exhibit Hall. $5 per vehicle entrance fee.

OCTOBER Pancho’s Car Show. 10am-2pm.

Featuring vintage to late model show cars, trucks and motorcycles. Enjoy music, food and drink, door prizes, raffle prizes, the park’s Exhibit Hall, and beautiful show cars and motorcycles.

Registration: $25 per show vehicle. $5 per vehicle entrance fee.

DECEMBER Luminaria and Tree Lighting. 6pm.

Enjoy hot chocolate, cookies, and campfire. $5 per vehicle entrance fee.

Fabulous getaway nestled in the tall pines of Pinos Altos.

• • • • • • • • •

Crackling Fireplaces Secluded Balconies Relaxing Porches Telephone Satellite TV Barbeque Grill Hot Tub in Cabana Meeting Room Cabins with kitchens are available.

Conveniently located just 7 miles north of Silver City on NM Hwy. 15.

575.388.4501 888.388.4515 Make reservations & view availability online

www.BearCreekCabins.com 88 Main Street • Pinos Altos, NM 88053

www.nmparks.com 1-888-NM-PARKS DEMING HORIZONS – 13

FINANCIAL

INSTITUTIONS LOCALLY OWNED BANKS: Chino Federal Credit Union 546-0459 First New Mexico Bank 546-2691 First Savings Bank 546-2707 Western Heritage Bank 546-8881 NATIONAL BANKS: Wells Fargo Bank 544-6440

EDUCATIONAL

INSTITUTIONS DEMING PUBLIC SCHOOL DISTRICT: OFFICE - 1001 S. DIAMOND 575-546-8841 Little Lambs Preschool Help Headstart (3-4 yrs.)

My Little School (3-4 yrs.)

Bataan Elementary (K-5) Bell Elementary (K-5) Chaparral Elementary (K-5) Columbus Elementary (K-5) Martin Elementary (K-5) Memorial Elementary (K-5) Ruben S. Torres (K-5) Deming Intermediate School (6) Hofacket Mid-High School (9) Red Mountain Middle School (7-8) Deming High School (10-12) CHARTER SCHOOLS: Cesar Chavez Charter High School HIGHER EDUCATION: Dona Ana Community College Branch Mimbres Valley Learning Center Western New Mexico University Branch

REGIONAL

MFEDICAL ACILITIES T

he region’s excellent medical facilities include Mimbres Memorial Hospital and Nursing Home with a staff 200 strong and various clinics that provide experienced specialized services normally delegated to larger communities. Gila Regional Medical Center and Silver Health CARE clinic have broadened Deming’s health care opportunities, while Cassie Health Center for Women in Silver City provides complete obstetrics and gynecological care. Melinda’s Medical delivers medical equipment and even oxygen to Deming homes.

HEALTH CARE

SERVICES & FACILITIES ASSISTED LIVING Beehive Homes of Deming Willow Manor

HOME HEALTH CARE SERVICES: Ambercare Home Health Coordinated Home Health Mimbres Valley Home Health & Hospice

FITNESS CENTERS: Ultimate Fitness

MEDICAL CENTERS AND HOSPITALS: Deming Health Center - PMS Gila Regional Medical Center - Silver City Gila Regional Cancer Center - Silver City Gila Regional Surgical Center - Silver City Mimbres Memorial Hospital and Nursing Home Silver Health CARE - Deming Center

MENTAL HEALTH SERVICES: Border Area Mental Health Services, Inc. La Frontera New Mexico

AVAILABLE MEDICAL SERVICES: Acupuncture Cardiology Chiropractic Dentistry, Orthodontics and Oral Surgery Family Practice Gastroenterology Gynecology Hematology Internal Medicine Mammography Obstetrics Oncology Ophthalmology Orthopedic Pediatrics Podiatry Physical Therapy & Rehabilitation Pulmonary Radiology Sports Medicine Surgery Urology

14 – DEMING HORIZONS ziapublishing.com

Norman Ratliff M.D., FACC Board-Certified Cardiologist WRITTEN BY KATE McGRAW I PHOTO BY JOE BURGESS Southwestern New Mexico residents are flocking to their new board-certified cardiologist serving three counties – Norman Ratliff, M.D., FACC, who practices non-invasive cardiology at Gila Regional Medical Center in Silver City.

“We’re getting lots of patients from Deming, Reserve and Lordsburg,” Ratliff says. He’s in a clinic across from the hospital with a nurse-practitioner and nurse. “We use a team approach,” he says.

Non-invasive cardiology is the best practice for many heart conditions, the Minnesotatrained doctor says. “I think that the future of cardiology is more on the preventive side, with non-invasive imaging, and less and less interventional treatment,” he comments. “A

lot of studies have shown that many people do very well on medical therapy—medications—rather than a stent or bypass.”

To decide on the medication requires careful study of the patient and tests, he acknowledges. “You need to view the whole picture, the whole clinical situation and decide what tests they need,” Ratliff says. At his clinic, he has an array of possible tests. “We manage the patients with a team approach,” he says.

DEMING HORIZONS – 15

Michelle Diaz, M.D. Cassie Health Center for Women

Complete Obstetrics and Gynecology Care for women of all ages.

Victor A. Nwachuku, M.D.

Michelle A. Diaz, M.D.

Gail Stamler, C.N.M.

Services include:

Annual Examinations

Contraception Treatment or Fertility

Care during Pregnancy and Childbirth

Problems related to Menstruation

Pre-menstrual Syndrome and Menopause

Gynecare Thermachoice

essure® Permanent Birth Control

Medicare, Medicaid and Most Insurance Accepted.

We Have a Sliding Fee Scale.

Friendly Bilingual Staff.

Accepting New Patients.

1618 E. Pine St. Silver City, NM 88061

CassieHealthCenter.com 575-388-1561

• 888-388-1562 toll free

YOUR PROPANE HEADQUARTERS

• Residential • Commercial • Repairs on all Propane Equipment • Tanks for Sale or Lease • Cargo Containers for Sale or Lease • Self Storage Units • Roll-Off Containers & Service

www.griffinspropane.com • 1700 Hwy 180 North • Deming, NM

575-546-4166 • 800-997-7672 16 – DEMING HORIZONS ziapublishing.com

“I’m grateful that I am in a position to give back to the community that supported my dream of becoming a doctor,” relates Michelle Diaz. A graduate of Silver High School and Western New Mexico University, she was the recipient of a scholarship from the Gila Regional Foundation. She now serves on the Foundation board that benefits the local hospital and provides scholarships to deserving students.

After earning her medical degree from the University of New Mexico Medical School and serving her four-year residency there, she and her husband, Raul, returned to Silver City. Raul is a teacher and coach at La Plata and Michelle is an OB/GYN physician at Cassie Health Center for Women.

They share the responsibilities of raising two children, Maleah and Mathew, and Michelle still manages a little time to focus on her own health – “Running is my sanity time.”

“I work with women’s health in general, from birth control to later-life issues,” Michelle adds.

“Cassie Health Center has a sliding scale fee system and can help secure funding for needed care. If you have a health issue or you are simply trying to build a healthy lifestyle, we can work with you.”

Make the BEST Choice for Your Family A Trusted Medical Practice in Deming for 18 Years.

The Highest Quality Healthcare Outstanding Customer Service

Urgent Care Walk-In Clinic No appointment needed Great alternative to the ER

Silver Health CARE Marvin White, Physician Assistant; Sara Holguin, Medical Assistant; Mandy Fisher, Clinic Manager; Annie Renteria, Phone Operator.

Silver Health CARE first opened a clinic in Deming in 1996, and its present state-of the-art location, at 1511 S. Lime St., opened with great fanfare in November 2006. Silver Health CARE has been a trusted practice serving the Deming community for over 18 years. In addition to the permanent staff in Deming, practitioners, with a range of specializations, travel from Silver City daily.

Over the years, they have offered patients care in pediatrics, internal medicine, family practice, podiatry and urgent care. In 2009, the Urgent Care Center was established in Deming. The first facility of its kind in the region, Urgent Care offered patients affordable care after hours, and gave them an alternative to the emergency room. The staff in Deming prides itself on being part of a tightly-knit community. They welcome patients with a warm greeting and a smile, and the staff is bi-lingual to meet the needs of all Deming residents.

1511 S. Lime St. • Deming, NM

575.544.4422 www.SilverHealthCare.org Silver City Location • 1600 E. 32nd St.• 575.538.2981 The Family Clinic • 1380 Hwy. 180, Silver City • 575.538.2981 Bayard Location • 608 Winifred St. • 575.538.2981

DEMING HORIZONS – 17

Melinda Bartlett Melinda’s Medical Supply

• Oxygen & Respiratory Equipment • Incontinent Supplies • Power Lift Recliners • Hospital Mattresses & Beds • Bathroom Safety Aids • Diabetic Care Supplies • 24 Hour Emergency Service • Motorized Scooters • Orthopedic Supports • Medicare, Medicaid & • Koi & Ecko Scrubs • All Natural Supplements Private Insurance Accepted for Men & Women • Sanita Nursing Shoes • Medicare accredited through The Compliance Team. Inc. • Mastectomy Products • We Deliver

910 East 32nd Street • Silver City, New Mexico

575.534.4013 • 866.534.4013

...the building block used to create a comfortable, time-tested, beautiful, southwestern home or patio.

Cool in summer, warm in winter, rounded walls naturally embrace your life like no other building material. Adobe is the perfect passive solar partner.

Stop by our new showroom at 258 Old Arenas Valley Road, Arenas Valley, NM (just south of Silver City on Hwy. 180 East).

Or call to arrange a visit to our production yard in Mule Creek.

547 Highway 78, Mule Creek, NM

575.535.2973 www.MuleCreekAdobe.com WE DELIVER •

18 – DEMING HORIZONS ziapublishing.com

Serving Deming, Hachita, Animas, Lordsburg, Mimbres, Silver City and Reserve, Melinda Bartlett, owner of Melinda’s Medical Supply in Silver City, carries a full line of medical equipment. She handles bracing, wound and neurological care products and aids to daily living issues including incontinence. “All doctors in the region refer patients to us,” Melinda relates, “and we can deliver directly to homes. Around 25 percent of our business originates from Deming.”

Raised in Hurley, Melinda earned her chemical engineering degree from the University of New Mexico. She began working with medical supplies in 1985 at Highland Medical in Albuquerque. She and husband, Emilio Rivera moved to Silver City in 1998 to raise their three children, two of whom are still in high school, and to start their own business. They opened their store in 2000.

“We work hard to be knowledgeable and understanding about our patients’ needs,” Melinda added, “and to provide them with the proper equipment and products.”

SILVER CITY Deming’s friendly neighbor!

Grant County is proud to be Luna County’s neighbor to the north and west with much to share within the two counties in the way of museums, parks, shopping and scenic grandeur. Both Deming and Silver City take great pride in being among the friendliest communities in the country to visit and relocate.

Just 53 miles up the road from Deming, Silver City provides an easy day trip for Deming residents and visitors who want to wander through Silver City’s relaxed historic downtown atmosphere. Packed with galleries, restaurants, unique stores and coffee shops, Silver City is a great getaway.

For those inclined to drive, hike or bike through the Gila high country, the Trail of the Mountain Spirits National Scenic Byway offers vistas into the rugged Gila and Aldo Leopold Wilderness areas and the intrigue of the Gila Cliff Dwellings National Monument. Trout streams and birding are highlights.

Travelers can choose among historic hotels, lodges and bed and breakfasts scattered from downtown to isolated spots on the forest’s edge as well as the familiar business/traveler motels and RV sites.

In addition to Luna County’s unique festivals, Grant County offers a variety of major events from a five-day bicycle stage race to music festivals featuring nationally recognized blues, bluegrass and mariachi bands.

It’s time to plan your visit.

DEMING HORIZONS – 19

DEMING HIGH SCHOOL

BAND MARIACHIPROGRAM

N

obody in the Southwest has had more influence on promoting mariachi music among young people than Al Valverde. For 38 years, Al was involved with music in Deming schools including private, elementary, junior and high schools serving as music, band and choir director, guitar and mariachi instructor. In 1997, with school board support, Al formed the first mariachi group, Mariachi Amistad, teaching the traditional instruments of trumpet, violin, guitar, vivuela and guitarĂłn. At one point in time, Al was directing four separate high school mariachi groups. They participated in school and community events and attended festivals/workshops in Tucson, Fresno, Corpus Christi, San Marcos, San Antonio, Orlando, Las Cruces and Silver City, producing four CDs to help defray registration and travel costs. They have taken top honors six years in Las Cruces and in 2010, Western New Mexico University honored the program, recognizing both the student groups and those comprised primarily of alumni.

20 – DEMING HORIZONS ziapublishing.com

opposite: Deming High School’s Mariachi Amistad and Mariachi Compañeros were among the groups performing at the 2013 Mariachi Conference in Silver City during Hispanic History Month. above: Al Valverde spent his career working with Deming school music programs and developed the mariachi curricula that continues today.

DEMING HORIZONS – 21

FOR

QUALITY AND “LOOK FOR THE G”

From RV Carports, Sheds, and Garages to A-Frame Barns

FROM UTILITY SHEDS, GARAGES, AND BARNS TO WRAPAROUND CABINS

ask about our

575-545-3879 1110 E. Pine St. Storage Rentals

Contact: Glenn glenn.gracelandportablebuildings@ymail.com

across from WalMart •

Deming, NM

Manufactured Home Subdivision 5 Acre Lots with Roads and Power.

Highway 180 East off XYZ Ranch Road Silver City, NM

575-388-1951

• FAMILY REUNIONS • CHURCHES • YOUTH GROUPS • SCHOOLS • BUSINESS MEETINGS • HUNTERS • RV GROUPS

Experiences in God's great outdoors for everyone!

Open ALL year for ALL groups.

Located on the Trail of the Mountain Spirits Scenic Byway - 3951 Hwy 35N, 2.5 miles north of the Wilderness Ranger Station

SINCE 1948

575-536-9560

www.campthunderbirdnm.org

campthunderbirdnm@gmail.com

22 – DEMING HORIZONS ziapublishing.com

Al has received area and national awards and recognitions, including his selection as the first to be inducted into the Mariachi Hall of Fame at Western New Mexico University. The baton has been passed to others at Deming High School, but Al continues as a Pastoral Musician at St. Ann’s Catholic Church and composes and publishes liturgical music that is full of hope and prayer.

above: Deming High School students and alumni continue to perform with groups like Mariachi Corazón Del Desierto. Pictured in these 2006 photos are the former Diana Molina (top), Kalyn García, Marisela Granillo and Britney Peña.

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Beautiful We have it all... • Landscapes

• Historic Ghost Towns • Art Communities

• Gorgeous Weather • Photo Opportunities • Birding Habitats

• Year-Round Activities

For more information, contact: Lordsburg - Hidalgo County Chamber of Commerce

575-542-9864 • lordsburgcoc@aznex.net 206 Main Street • Lordsburg, NM 88045

Fresh Meats • Seafood • Bakery Deli • Produce • Dairy • Liquor

812 E. Florida St. in Peppers Plaza 575-546-3922 • PeppersSupermarket.com

VISIT OUR NEW LOCATION FOR:

Z

Area Business Resource Information Z Business Networking Opportunities Z Membership Directory & Visitor Guide Z Event information

A Your source for NM State Flag B

103 E. Ash St.

575.546.2674

demingchamber.com DEMING HORIZONS – 23

575.546.4497 429 E. Olive St. • Deming, NM 575.388.4497 315 S. Hudson St., Ste. 12 • Silver City, NM

“Delight yourself in the Lord, and He will give you the desires of your heart” Psalms 37:4

Delightful, Fun, and Unique Arrangements for All Seasons and Celebrations.

• Fresh Flowers • Candy Bouquets • Balloons • Pinatas • Gifts and More

575.546.4646 318 Cody Rd. Deming, NM 88030

August 21-24, 2014 Wet & Dry Duck Races Duck Royalty Pageants Elks Breakfast • Vendors Tournament of Ducks Parade Carnival • Tortilla Toss Outhouse Race • Hot Air Balloons Horseshoe & Washers Tournaments

Fine Jewelry • 10 & 14 kt Gold Diamonds • Sterling Silver Expert Jewelry & Watch Repair Original Perfume • Watch Batteries Se Habla Español

We Buy Scrap Gold 888-345-1125 • 575-544-0469 202 S. Diamond St. • Deming, NM 88030 info@demingduckrace.com

www.demingduckrace.com

24 – DEMING HORIZONS

ziapublishing.com

Hometown Deming Unique Mode Sunrise Kettle Corn & Old Fashioned Sodas

208 S. Gold Ave. • 575.545.4680 Women’s fine clothing, jewelry, shoes, purses and accessories for all occasions

113 S. Silver St. • 575.936.4156 www.sunrisekettlecorn.com Gourmet popcorn in a variety of flavors, homemade fudge and nostalgic sodas

LadyBug Garden, Inc 605 E. Florida • 575.546.7654 www.myladybuggarden.com “For people who no longer expect the ordinary”Fresh Flowers, Balloons, Silk Arrangements, Home Decor & Gifts

Momo’s Boutique 119 E. Spruce St. • 575.545.7640 Contemporary, chic clothing, makeup, shoes, hats, sunglasses & accessories

“99¢ Store” Nueva Era

Tharp’s Flowers

326 E. Spruce St. 575.546.6928 Variety store - housewares, clothing, first communion & quinceanera clothing

1205 Columbus Rd. • 575.546.9501 Trusted florists committed to creating beautiful, unique floral gifts for any special occasion.

Readers’ Cove Used Books & Gallery 200 S. Copper St. • 575.544.2512 Vast selection of used books - Southwest, SciFi, Pop Fiction, Fantasy & more

Desert Oasis Day Spa & Salon 315 E. Poplar • 575.544.0027 “Bringing out the beauty in you.” Hair Cuts, Color & Perms Barber • Manicures • Pedicures & Acrylic Nails • Facials Chemical Peels & Microderm • Massage • Waxing • Tanning

Sun Country Realtors

Deming Realty Co.

1410 Columbus Rd., Suite B • 575.544.4450 Fax: 575.544.4460 • www.suncountryrealtors.com

220 S. Gold Ave. • 575.546.8818 www.demingrealty.com • info@demingrealty.com

“Our team will work for you!” We can help you choose the right Home, Real Estate, Commercial Property, Farm, Ranch or Rental

“Your Hometown Realtor since 1987"Homes, Land, Farms & Commercial DEMING HORIZONS – 25

Explore Deming!

Rockhound Tours Red or Green Chile Desert Golf Course World Class Museum Award-winning Wines Mimbres Culture Exhibits Great American Duck Races August 21-24, 2014 Mariachi Music & Ballet Folkloric September 20, 2014 Stars-n-Parks Telescope Program Renewable Energy Sources

Red or Green?

Klobase BBQ Festival October 19, 2014 Music in the Parks 3rd Sat., May-August, 2014 Moderate Climate State Parks Art Center

Ballet Folklorico

Rockhound State Park

Desert Golf Course

Award Winning Wines

Deming Visitor Center 800 E. Pine St. Deming, NM 88030 demingvisitor@gmail.com

575.567.1962

ExploreDeming.com