Silver City Life Summer 2004

Summer ’04

$2.65 Q U I T E S I M P LY T H E B E S T !

Annual Visitors Guide Issue THE GREAT

OUTDOORS

HAPPY ENDINGS Adopting from the Pound

Riding the Real West

Tailoring a Backcountry Experience

Exceptional Service Individuals “Making a Difference” in the Silver City Quality of Life 0 5>

PLUS: 0

74470 98128 $2.65

2

Summer ‘04

SPECIAL EVENTS OPENINGS & PERFORMANCES

chavez construction we build HOMES, not houses to fit your budget

Silver City’s most versatile Contractor. Quality construction with a personal touch.

Our goal is to help your dream home become a reality.

505-388-1886 www.chavezconst.com

Properties that are out of the ordinaryNot out of the question.

Stylish SW hacienda on Mimbres River 100+ ac., water rights. $795,000.

On Sapillo Creek -Forest Borders 85+38.5 acres w/water right $5000/acre

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Quality People, Quality Service

St. Joseph’s Square Campus-close Block of Historic Apartments • $989,000

for over 38Years.

We are an established team of professionals whose success is built on quality service and customer satisfaction. Call us today and put Silver City’s oldest, largest and most recommended real estate company to work for YOU!

505-538-5373 • 1-800-234-0307 505 W. College • Silver City, NM 88061

askus@smithrealestate.com

DOWNTOWN ESCAPES! A sandwich ...gelatto and a Modeling clothes from Star Mountain Trading Company, Open Mon-Sat 10am-5:30pm, model Soraya Maynes (left) wears a pewter colored retro 60’s granny dress with cranberry embroidery $17.95 by Funky People.

Pink shell necklace with pink pearls on sterling chain $19.50. Model Cari Bolin (middle) is wearing a baby-blue leather mini-skirt $14.95 by Highway Original. White cotton blouse with puffed sleeves and triangular lace front $9.95 by Funky People. Necklace made with handmade lampwork beads by Mary Margret Soule. Model Dyann Marquez (right) wears denim mini-dress trimmed with tan suede by Joey Beth $14.95. Sterling silver butterfly ring $18.95. After a long exciting day, top off your escape with a dish of fabulous Italian ice cream or fresh baked desserts, seven days a week at Alotta Gelato. Open Sun-Thurs 12pm-9-pm and Fri-Sat 12pm-10pm.

Vicki’s Eatery is a locals favorite, a perfect place to enjoy Hearty, Healthy and Homemade fare, including, vegitarian selections Mon-Sat 10:30am-3:30pm, just as these two women are doing. Sporting attire from Vintage Fantasies, who specialize in Vintage clothing and hats from the 20’ through the 90’s. Owned by Patsy Madrid and Jean Esqueda. Model Laure Romero (left), is wearing a 50’s taffeta “I Love Lucy” dress with red petticoats, a 50’s designer hat by Hattie Carnegie and black gloves.

Also modeling is Christy Miller, (right) wearing a 50’s black satin cocktail dress, a 50’s black velvet hat by Jack McConnell, rhinestone jewelry by Eisenberg and black satin purse and gloves.

Vicki’s Eatery

Vintage Fantasies

Star Mountain Trading Co.

Alotta Gelato

107 W. Yankee St. (505) 388-5430

412 N. Bullard (505) 388-4081

409 N. Bullard (505) 534-0377 1-888-star-mtn (782-7686)

619 N. Bullard (505) 534-4995

...walk in the park.

Clothing styles found in Silver City’s downtown area can match your mood and fit the occasion. Meeting the family for a walk through historic Big Ditch Park, wearing clothing from: a la mode, Open MonSat. Model Alisha (left) is wearing brick colored rayon/linen blend top with lacing up the back and buttons in front by Tribal $37.00. The spandex capris have front pockets and a clean back by Tribal $37.00. A rosa colered bag by FRAN CESCOBIASIA of Italy $116.00. Suede and leather thongs by YellowBox $21.00. Little Cheyenne (front) is wearing a 2 piece cotton patchwork print outfit by Sacred Treads $35.00.

Holly (right) wearing clay dyed 100% linen triangle top with matching chandelier pant by Earth Creations $69/$75.

Beaded velvet bag $49.00 and morrocan style sandals by Y ellow Box $48.00. Alison (back) wearing tencel seperates by Cut•Loose.

White elastic waist pants with front pockets $70.00.

White tanktop $44.00.

Cornflower blue, buttonfront-shirt $68.00.She is carrying a blue leather Ingrid bag by Ho Bo $150.00. Dog-Sachmo

a la mode

704 N. Bullard (505) 3882474

SUMMER ‘04 Fashion

Out & About

2 DOWNTOWN ESCAPES

18 SNAPSHOT OF LOCAL EVENTS

Lifestyle a Secluded 1930’s Country French Cottages nestled in a Virgin Forest on the slopes of the Continental Divide,at the edge of the largest Wilderness in the U.S.! a Each Romantic Country French Cottage is airconditioned and includes a woodburning fireplace, TV/VCR, phone, literary and video library, solid oak country kitchen and private patio. Rated #1 climate in the US! Luxurious Featherbeds. Relaxing Hot Mineral Baths and Showers in the Privacy of each Cottage or Suite. a Just seconds from Historic Silver City. The driveway on the ranch is actually a longer ride than it is from the gates to Silver City! a Truly the Nicest in all of New Mexico!

6 RIDING THE REAL WEST Pros make the outdoors accessible

Business, political and social personalities turn out for town’s activities.

Photo courtesy Double E Guest Ranch

Shops of the Historic District assemble a fashion statement.

The Arts

24 ART & CULTURE An in-depth review of the local art scene

12 HAPPY ENDINGS Homes for Deserving Animals

25 OPENINGS AND PERFORMANCES The listing of local summer events

Visitors Guide 2 BEST SMALL TOWN An American Destination Ideal lifestyles and surroundings garner national recognition

Box 2562, 2037 Cottage San Rd. Silver City, New Mexico, USA 88062 800•938•3001 • 505•388•3000 www.zianet.com/cottages www.bbhost.com/cottages

Scepter Gems & Minerals

FREE Mineral Museum Photo by Bob Pelham

Royal

7 HISTORIC DOWNTOWN A Glance into the Past Boomtown era buildings and sites continue to serve the community

20 JACK ELLIS Teaching students to participate in life • Gifts for Every Occasion • Fine Mineral Specimens • Rockhounding Supplies & Books

30 EXCEPTIONAL SERVICE Recognizing locals whose focus and business effort build a stronger community

Health 28 MEDICAL COMMUNITY Meeting the expectations of larger cities.

11 QUALITY OF LIFE Involvement, Recreation and Climate Life’s basic amenities are captured in an ideal setting Photo by Jackie Blurton

• Turquoise & Southwest Jewelry

Open: M-Sat. Phone & Fax: (505) 538-9001

1805 Little Walnut Road Silver City, NM 88061 Email: RoyalScepter@zianet.com Web: http://www.zianet.com/Royal-Scepter/

4 – SILVER CITY LIFE

9 CULTURAL COMMITMENT Museums, Galleries & Performing Arts A millennia of development and artistic endeavors have created a vibrant community

ON THE COVER Guest participant at Cowgirl Camp at the Double E Guest Ranch. Cowgirl Camp is a featured event at the Double E and is held six times a year.

14 AREA ATTRACTIONS Diverse and Unique Nature at its best and man’s aspirations join forces in regional destinations 18 THE GREAT OUTDOORS Adventure Opportunities Birding, biking, camping and fishing are among the options of the forest 22 SPECIAL EVENTS Major Annual Performances Acclaimed and sanctioned events attract regional attendance

SILVER CITY LIFE

HOME FURNITURE

Terri Menges Special Thanks to: President & Managing Director

Joseph Burgess Vice President & Editor In Chief

Arlyn Cooley Staff Accountant

Terri Menges Karen Porter Designers

Jim Madsen Copy Editor

Jackie Blurton Joseph Burgess Brett Ferneau Gerald C. Hammon Contributing Writers

Brett Ferneau Lynn Janes LeAnne Knudsen Mary Catherine Meek Advertising Sales

Joseph Burgess Photography except where credited

Jackie Blurton Joe Butts Double E Guest Ranch Cissy McAndrew Bob Pelham Silver City Museum Dale and Marian Zimmerman Contributing Photographers

Joseph Burgess Distribution

Graham Dodd Database Administrator

LeAnne Knudsen Project Manager

Bobby Ray Holroyd, Jr. Production Assistant

Joanne Pena Jennifer Rivera Production Interns

©Zia Publishing Inc., 2004. This issue of Silver City Life is copyright under the laws of the United States of America.

All rights reserved.

Reproduction in whole or part without permission of the publisher prohibited. For permission to use any portion of this publication email: All submissions of editorial or photography are only accepted without risk to the publisher for loss or damage. Every effort was made to ensure accuracy in the information provided.

The publisher assumes no responsibility or liability for errors, changes or omissions.

á la mode Carol Jean Auffrey Susan Berry Jackie Blurton Linda Brewer Joe Butts Becky Campbell Jim Carlson Abigail Corson Lawrence Churchill Ed Conley Double E Outfitters Debbie & Alan Eggleston Karen Hamlin Kelly Hartman Gila Hike & Bike Holray Construction Diana Ingalls Lynn Janes North Johnson Leah Gray Jones Tom & Jane Klumker Billy, Cindy & Tyrell Lee Keith LeMay Ysabel & Paul Luecke Jim Madsen Jim Mater Cissy McAndrew Faye McCalmont Floyd McCalmont Dr. Don & Kim Montoya Mary Alice & Don Murphy Bob Pelham Nancy Oliver Luis Perez Jean Pierce Neysa Pritikin John Rahovek Becky Rea Margo & Barry Remmel Christine Rickman Joe Saenz M.H. & Cherie K. Salmon Dr. Ben Sherman Ray & Holly Sytch Vicki’s Eatery Gary & Julie Webb John C. Wenzel, DVM Todd Yocham

APPLIANCES & CARPETING

• Largest Showrooms in Southwestern New Mexico • Family owned and operated in historic downtown Silver City for 67 years 207 South Bullard Street • 538-3767 • 1-800-286-3767

Silver City Life is published bi-annually

by Zia Publishing Corp. with offices at: 611 N. Hudson Street Silver City, NM 88061 Phone: 505-956-1560 Fax: 505-956-1580 e-Mail: info@ziapublishing.com Website: www.ziapublishing.com Subscriptions: $7.00.

Add $2 for subscriptions to Canada or Mexico. $3 for other countries. Back Issues $4.25. Subscription telephone: 505-956-1560

leyba & ingalls

ARTS supplies & gallery Hours: 10-6 Monday-Saturday

217 N. Bullard, Silver City, NM 88061

505-388-5725 “Raven” Diana Ingalls Leyba

www.zianet.com/LeybaIngallsART

SILVER CITY LIFE – 5

• Day & half-day horseback rides the entire family can enjoy • Gila Wilderness Pack Trips

U-Trail

gila wilderness horseback vacations

505-539-2426 Wild Horse Road P.O. Box 66 Glenwood, New Mexico 88039

e-mail: utrail@gilanet.com www.utrail.com

Contact Information: P.O. Box 280 Glenwood, New Mexico 88039 505-539-2800 866-677-2008

E-mail: leah@gilawildernessventures.com And visit our website: www.gilawildernessventures.com

OUTFITTERS

• Horseback Vacations • Trail Rides to Multi-Day Pack Trips • Beginners Welcome • Gentle Mountain Horses • Comfortable Camps

6 – SILVER CITY LIFE

For information contact: Tom Klumker

505-539-2517

HC61, Box 179-C, Glenwood, NM 88039 email: sfroutfitters@gilanet.com www.gilanet.com/sfroutfitters

Photo © Joe Burgess cour tesy U-Trail

San Francisco River

Vacationing on

RIDING THE REAL

WEST BY

BRETT FERNEAU

Welcome to southwestern New Mexico, the home of Geronimo, Billy the Kid, the Wild Bunch, and the vast Gila (pronounced Hee-la) Wilderness. The warriors and outlaws of old are gone; but the wilderness is much like it was then.

It comprises almost half a million acres of designated wilderness area, surrounded by 3.3 million acres of national forest land. Home to countless species of wildlife, some found only in this area, it is some of the most beautiful country on earth - and some of the roughest. Much of it is accessible and enjoyable only with the help of a good saddle horse or pack animal.

Following are stories of a few of our equine professionals: the outfitters, guides, packers and guest ranchers in the Gila region. While they vary in style and services offered, they share many common traits. Among these are a commitment to the wild areas and a love of the place where they live. Many are located within an hour’s drive from Silver City. They buy supplies locally and proudly employ local residents. All of them can get you into the backcountry and out again safely and enjoyably. By utilizing drop camps, even hikers and backpackers can benefit from their services. And there’s no such thing as a dull trip around here!

You might say the backcountry is in Tom Klumker’s blood.

His great grandfather, John Franklin Bird, guided for Teddy Roosevelt. Both he and his wife Jane are lifelong horsemen.

For the last seventeen years, they have operated the San Francisco River Outfitters north of Glenwood. (Yes, the San Francisco River is located in New Mexico!)

Tom has permits to operate in six different wilderness areas in New Mexico and Arizona, including the Gila Wilderness and the Blue Range Primitive Area. He specializes in tailored horseback vacations for riding enthusiasts, whether they want

horseback in southwestern New Mexico. above: Pack animals pass through a meadow on the Middle Fork of the Gila River, deep in the rugged Gila Wilderness Area.

to fish, ride every day, or “just kick back and camp.”

Other featured activities include riding the Wild Bunch Trail, used by Butch Cassidy and the Sundance Kid to travel to

SILVER CITY LIFE – 7

Custom trips for the whole family!

Photo courtesy Mimbres Taxidermy & Guide Service

• Day Rides, 1/2 Day $35/person • Pack Trips • Fishing Trips • Photo & Sightseeing Trips • Wagon Rides

Mimbres Taxidermy & Guide Service

Contact us for pricing, dates and availability.

505-536-9685 HC 71 Box 497 • Mimbres, NM 88049 www.gilaoutfitters.com

Native American, New Mexican Collectibles, Folk Art, Furniture & Coffee Bar

Many Moons

4 Miles East of Silver City on Hwy 180 in Arenas Valley!

Open Sundays!

(505) 534-2400

A & L FEED and SUPPLY Your neighborhood feed store Full Line of Equine Feed & Tack Wild Bird Seed Hay Fence Panels Pet Food Electric Fence Supplies

8 – SILVER CITY LIFE

FREE coffee!

Corner of 90 South & Truck By-Pass

534-9200

Gila fisherman

Clifton, Arizona, from the nearby WS Ranch. It seems that Butch and Sundance were working as ranch hands under assumed names at the WS and wanted to keep their noses clean while in New Mexico. So when they got the urge to drink and carouse, they rode over to Clifton!

Also located north of Glenwood, Jim Mater at U-Trail welcomes novices, families, and children, as well as more advanced riders. Jim’s current mature herd has been working together for ten years. As a result, he says, “We can get people into the Wilderness who have never been on a horse.” While the emphasis at U-Trail is on recreational riding, Jim has served twice as a guide for National Geographic. Always ready to go, U-Trail operates year-round, offering day rides and pack trips up to a week in length. If your kids have never been on a horse, expect Jim to spend a lot of time teaching them to ride. In addition to everyone having a great day, they will learn a new skill. Don’t let them get too cocky about it, though. These are some of the most seasoned kid’s animals around.

Twenty-year veteran outfitters Gary and Julie Webb base their operation at Lake Roberts. Though specializing in advance bookings of small groups, they maintain a string of thirty pack and saddle animals, “about 70 percent mules”. Gary notes that while some Eastern riders are initially offended at the idea of riding a saddle mule, they change their minds quickly after a day in the rough Gila Wilderness.

In recent years, Gary and Julie have found that they enjoy teaching backcountry horsemanship through clinics and individual instruction. They explain that many people who move here with horses have difficulty riding them into the Wilderness.

Respected horse trainers, the couple helps both riders and their animals hone the skills they need for forays into the backcountry.

Originally homesteaded in the 1880’s, the Gila Hotsprings Ranch is unique in many ways. Located just four miles south of the Gila Cliff Dwellings National Monument, it is one of the few ranches in the country that has its own source of natural hot water. The result of over a hundred years of hard work, the ranch now contains a campground, an RV park, guest apartments, and a trading post. From this impressive base camp, outfitter Becky

Experience life on our 30,000 acre working Cattle Ranch!

Photo courtesy Gila Hotsprings Ranch

• Ride seasoned ranch horses • Cowboy Mounted Shooting Clinics • Saddle up for a Roundup • Learn the skills of roping, reining and horsemanship • Gila Wilderness Nature Rides on Horseback

DOUBLE E Guest Ranch

Visit the Old Southwest and Ride your Dreams

Contact us for riding vacation information, reunion options or single day rides.

866-242-3500 Trail riders

Campbell manages a wide variety of equine activities for small and large parties alike, including drop camps and packhorse rentals for hikers. Becky has spent considerable time putting together a string of Tennessee Walkers. These smooth-gaited horses are “greatly appreciated by my guests who don’t ride often.”

Ysabel Campbell Luecke (Becky’s sister), and her husband Paul run the trading post. Simply called Doc Campbell’s Post, it was named for Becky and Ysabel's father. The store alone is worth the trip. It carries rural necessities like staple groceries, gasoline, and fishing licenses; and even rural luxuries like homemade ice cream (recommended). It also offers an extensive selection of books on the Southwest. If that isn’t enough, the store showcases a staggering array of merchandise from local artisans.

Among the thousands of items are reasonably priced handmade woolen goods and wool yarn that come from Becky Campbell’s own Navajo Churro sheep. An endangered species, the Churros are small sheep with very dense, high quality wool. They are just one of several species of livestock raised on the family ranch.

With 30,000 acres of high desert rangeland and a herd of Texas Longhorn cattle, the Double E Guest Ranch near Gila, NM, is the perfect destination for people seeking a classic western experience.

The Double E has been a working cattle ranch since it was founded. For ranch personnel and guests alike, there is plenty to do year round. Each year, owners Alan and Debbie Eggleston are hosts to some seven hundred visitors from all over the world.

Many are people who might otherwise never have chosen southwest New Mexico as a vacation destination; and many return again and again.

The Double E employs a fulltime cook, a fulltime housekeeper, two fulltime wranglers and numerous part-time employees from the Gila area. “We were fortunate,” says Alan Eggleston, “We didn’t have to go far to find good help. The level of professionalism in this area is phenomenal.”

One featured event at the Double E is Cowgirl Camp, held six times a year. Small groups of adult women of all ages and backgrounds spend five days riding, roping, barrel racing, team penning, and rounding up range cattle. Expert instructors

P.O. Box 280 • Gila, NM 88038 email: info@doubleeranch.com www.doubleeranch.com

Gila Hotsprings ranch RV Park, Country Store & Gallery • Customized Wilderness pack trips • Natural hot springs Jacuzzi in RV park • Lodging • Locally handcrafted gifts • Book nook • Homemade ice cream • Gas & groceries 4 Miles South of the Gila Cliff Dwellings National Monument 505-536-9551 gilahotspringsranch@gilanet.com www.gilahotsprings.com

Gary Webb Guide & Outfitter Specializing in Guided Horseback Trips In the Gila and Aldo Leopold Wilderness

• Horse & Rider Training • Trail Rides

• Horse Packing Classes • Pack Trips

• Drop Camps • Horse Shoeing

HC 68 Box 149 K • Lake Roberts, NM 88061 • 505-536-9368

SILVER CITY LIFE – 9

Photo courtesy Double E Guest Ranch

Mounted shooter

w w w. w e l l s f a r g o . c o m

Your local community bank!

Corner of 12th & Pope • Silver City, NM

505-538-5302 10 – SILVER CITY LIFE

supervise all activities; and the women have the opportunity to experience the various aspects of ranch life in a safe, comfortable and friendly environment.

“It does tremendous things for their self-esteem and sense of accomplishment,” says Debbie Eggleston, “They make a lot of good friends and have a great time.

Everyone here enjoys doing Cowgirl Camp. It’s been very successful.”

Isn’t cattle ranching a lot of hard work?

Yes, but at the Double E Ranch, they also work hard at making it a lot of fun. “If it’s not fun,” says Mrs. Eggleston, “we don’t want to do it anymore.”

At Wolfhorse Outfitters in Santa Clara, Native American guide Joe Saenz offers customized pack trips for groups of up to six people. Descended from a long line of oral historians and storytellers, Joe is able to enhance his pack trips with an Apache perspective on land use and local history.

Joe works with his clients to discover what the client would like to see, do and accomplish on a pack trip. Then he tailors the trip accordingly. The length of a trip?

Joe smiles. “From an hour to a month,” he replies.

Have you ever thought of seeing the backcountry by covered wagon? With his two mule teams, Billy Lee of Mimbres Taxidermy and Guide Service can take parties of up to ten people to backcountry weddings, receptions, or reunions. And don’t worry; the wagon has rubber tires and a modern suspension system to save wear and tear on the occupants.

If you’re just interested in summertime fun, Billy can also get you up and out on a

Saving trees: A Polysteel Photo courtesy Double E Guest Ranch

home uses 30% less lumber than a traditionally built structure.

Saving Energy:

Residential and commercial Polysteel property owners across the country are using 50% to 80% less energy for heating and cooling.

Saving Money:

Guest cabin

good horse or mule.

A master taxidermist, he shares his extensive knowledge of area fish and wildlife with guests on fishing, photo, and sightseeing pack trips.

Billy is also an expert angler. Respected fly rod manufacturer Orvis refers clients to him, and the fishing isn’t only trout fishing.

“A lot of people can’t believe it,” he chuckles, “the first time they catch a mountain catfish with a fly rod and a fly!”

He reports that most of his guided fishing trips are catch-and-release.

At Wilderness Ventures, located on the road to Mogollon, NM, Leah Gray Jones offers two-hour, half-day and daylong trail rides to horsemen of all levels. With 23 years of experience in the Gila, she also offers weeklong adventures that cover some 53 miles of backwoods trails. The trips are available eleven times a year.

Three to five wranglers and crewmembers accompany parties of up to twelve mounted guests. The trip includes shuttle service from El Paso to pre- and post trip lodgings in Glenwood, NM. You can choose a scheduled trip and make new friends, or sign book a custom group trip with your own friends. Drop camps are also available year-round.

Did we mention food? Leah is the current local Dutch oven cooking champion. Her home-baked biscuits and desserts, plus fresh fruits and vegetables, are sure to make you feel at home in the wilderness. Special diets are no problem.

“I love my guests,” say Leah. “We always have a great time.”

Lower energy bills, insurance rates and nortgage costs, and often shorter construction times mean thousands of dollars stay in your pocket.

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b Birding • Fishing • Hiking • Riding • Forest Trails • Indian Ruins • Ghost Towns • Hot Springs Gila Cliff Dwellings 684 Hwy. 35,Lake Roberts

505-536-9459

www.spiritcanyon.com info@spiritcanyon.com

SILVER CITY LIFE – 11

"The Greatness of a Nation and it's Moral Progress, can be Judged by the way it's Animals are Treated..”

— M. Gandhi

Happy

Endings Adopted pets are special at Zia Publishing. Terri’s 15-year old Brittany named Nikki, passed away recently, meaning the loss of a faithful companion and family member that had provided years of unpretentious pleasure. Through the help of friends, a warm and energetic St. Bernard named Heidi soon after adopted Terri, rescuing her from an emotional slump.

Simultaneously, the Zia staff was concerned about mice at the office and convinced Terri to adopt a cat.

The friendly mouser is now the official greeter of guests and helps everybody with their work. If she isn’t on the payroll yet…she should be.

Somewhat amazed that two such wonderful animals had come from the shelter, a quick review indicated that many local people have adopted the pet that was perfect for their lives from the shelter. It was such a meaningful experience for us and for

12 – SILVER CITY LIFE

Teddy Dr. Ben Sherman

Harlee & Lucky Lynn Janes

There may be easier ways to teach your pet how to care for its teeth, but Teddy the Wonder Dog is getting a lesson from Dr. Ben Sherman. Ben donned the gas mask claiming Teddy’s breath is bad, but Teddy appears quite happy with his mouth just the way it is.

Teddy is a 4 year old adoptee and in the last two years Ben and Sue have also adopted Piglet, a miniature Teddy, Buster the (huge) Cat, and Sir A.J., a very regal looking cat.

“Both my dogs are ten and on their third and final family. Harlee is a Blue & Red Heeler mix that had been rejected by two families prior to my taking her in. She’s highstrung, but has been a good companion. Lucky is a yellow Labrador that was rescued by my friend from a Colorado family that abused him. My friend passed away, and I adopted Lucky as he was headed back to the pound. He’s a real sweetheart.”

Louie Faye & Floyd McCalmont “I first met Louie, our Cocker Spaniel, at Rejuvenations. He was just sitting calmly next to Karen Hamlin wearing a bandana that said, ‘Adopt Me.’ We had never had dogs and cats but since four of our five children were no longer at home, I thought, well…maybe…

We were headed to Elephant Butte that weekend and decided to take him along. He loved the water and sand and instantly became part of the family.”

Sugar, Penny, & Billy-Bob Don & Karen Hamlin

“We adopted Penny , our Cor giBasenji, last September and we adopted our cat Billy-Bob fr om the shelter over two years ago. Sugar , on the other hand, adopted us. She showed up at the house and actually pulled on my pant leg to let me know that she needed help. The white Shepherd mix was star ving and I don’t think she would have lasted another 24 hours. Rescued pets tend to be very loving and as far as mixed br eeds… well, most of us in this country are mixed breeds.

Cards • Gifts • Hobbies Crafts • Souvenirs Office Supplies Furniture • Machines 703 N. Bullard Silver City, NM 88061

538-5324

Dakota Margo & Barry Remmel

A volunteer at the shelter asked Margo to walk Dakota, a par t Husky.

“He was ver y insecure at first…afraid to walk through the doors and had to stop every few steps. W e made the decision to keep him, but I continued to walk him at the shelter for another week. I also bathed him at the shelter before bringing him home and was the main attraction for a visiting grade school class.” The Remmels retired in Silver City June, 2003, fr om Wisconsin.

Pet Food Annex Safe alternative cat and dog food and supplements the natural way!

Simply Natural, Wysong, Canidae, Avo Diets, Felidae Pinnacle, Ark Naturals Mon.-Sat 10-6 1613 Silver Heights Blvd.

Piñon Plaza

Sam & Roxie Dr. & Kim Montoya

Sam, or Lover Boy , is a Samoyed cross that showed up at the Montoya home in 1994 and wouldn’t leave. Kim was heart-broken about having the dog removed to the shelter, and over lunch, Don was convinced to adopt him. In 2003, the Montoya’s Ridgeback passed away and because they wer e taking it hard, the of fice staff picked their Christmas present from the shelter…a Dachshund named Roxie with Basset Hound legs and the temperament of a ferocious Terrier. The cat periodically puts him in his place.

(505) 388-2150

• Feed for all the critters • Hay • Wood Pellets

Mountain Right Feed & Supply

ll787 Hwy. 180 E. Arenas Valley 534-2758

SILVER CITY LIFE – 13

Blackjack & Jenny Mary Alice and Don Murphy

Heidi Terri Menges

those we interviewed, we felt it warranted coverage in this and future issues of Silver City Life.

We appreciate the countless Grant County volunteers who step forward whenever animals are in need and Senator Ben Altamirano’s supportive voice in Santa Fe. Thanks to Karen Hamlin, Carol Auffrey and Marcia Weist who alerted us to the need for homes for deserving animals.

It is important to note that animals deserve responsible actions from all of us. If you are not in the position to care for the offspring of your pet, take advantage of spay/neuter programs.

SNAP (Spay & Neuter Awareness Program) is a local non-profit program that was organized in 2002 by Jerry and Mary Jane Friedler, Lynn Janes and Kris Wamsley to help low income people spay and neuter their animals.

We want to emphasize the fact that many adopted animals are the product of neglect and desertion.

The love shared with animals includes responsible care and family planning. Your veterinarian, the Grant County Humane Society and the Spay and Neuter Awareness Program (SNAP) can provide answers before problems arise.

“Both our dogs were starving and aloof when they first came home, but soon began seeking companionship.

Blackjack, a 412⁄ year old lab mix, arrived at the shelter with porcupine quills in his snout and had a run-in with a skunk here. We bathed him with Dawn detergent, bi-carbonate and peroxide and not surprisingly had a red-haired lab that first summer. When our second dog died, we adopted Jenny, a two-year old German Shorthaired Pointer. She flunked her first attempt at obedience school, but gets by on her looks. She’s a wonderful dog.

Tequila Gold Carol Jean Aufrey We were fostering a mother dog and her seven pups. People were picking them up, but, well, my stepdaughter and I decided we should keep the only gold one of the litter. My husband wasn’t real pleased with the decision, but it’s been a wonderful dog. We named her Tequila Gold.

She looks like a Lab but with the fur of a Husky. She lost her tail playing with the horse…had to have it amputated. Her playmates are Wild Man Tucker and Michelob Light…all three are very layback.

Wyatt Nancy Oliver “Wyatt is a Blue Heeler/German Shorthaired Pointer mix that I met at the shelter after loosing Minnie and Cody. At the shelter I spotted him sitting in the corner looking like a very friendly dog. I had always been a German Shepherd-type person but I knew he was the one. His markings include a “W” on his forehead, which led to his name. He also has a heart on his side and is absolutely the happiest, friendliest dog I have ever had.”

Darby & Zia Neysa Pritikin “We adopted Darby, our 5-year old English Springer Spaniel, from the shelter last summer. The owner could no longer take care of him.

Karen Hamlin decided Zia, our twelve and a half-year old dog, needed a playmate and took Darby to my office to convince me. I said my parents had to agree…and they did, and then we took Darby to the house to get Zia’s input. Darby knew it was a test and was very polite…let Zia be the boss. Now, after obedience school, Darby is a little pushier.”

Yodi & Marble Cissy McAndrew “I adopted Yodi, a Border Collie/Australian Shepherd mix, almost 5 years ago. Marble, a Catahoola, was found in a forest fire in 2002. I saw him at the shelter and fell in love. I took the other pets out to meet him, and they approved. He has to be given medication daily for Lupus and had to have an eye removed, but is absolutely the sweetest dog you can imagine. The two dogs, three cats and I are all best of friends.”

Ursa & Oso Diana Ingalls “Ursa was a stray puppy who adopted us about 5 years ago, nipping at my heels as I walked down the street. We picked Oso from the pound last summer when he was about one and a half years old. We had just lost Ursa’s companion and she was taking it hard. I started looking for another dog, but just wasn’t connecting with any of them. A volunteer at the shelter walked out with Oso one day and we connected immediately. I took Ursa out to meet Oso, and she agreed.”

Chinook Christine Rickman “I had never been a dog person, but the sponsored ads for Chinook, a 312⁄ year old Malamute mix, got my attention. He looked like a sweet dog, and when I met him, I knew without a doubt that he was in that shelter because he was meant to be mine. We now go everywhere…he is a loyal companion. He works hard greeting people at the gallery and, in fact, has a following that stops by just to pet him.”

Jody Kincaid, D.V.M., N.D. Natural Healing for Pets and Their People

Anthony Animal Clinic & Holistic Healing Center HOLISTIC & TRADITIONAL MEDICINE

915-886-4558 Anthony, Texas 79821

www.anthonyanimalclinic.com

SILVER CITY LIFE – 15

Photo by Mary Catherine Meek

Copper Creek Ranch

Belle Michael Meek

Chuck Wagon Supper & Western Show Family Dining Friday & Saturday Nights - Memorial Day thru Labor Day Reservations Appreciated 20 Flury Lane • Silver City, NM

505-538-2971 • 1-888-274-1001 www.coppercreeklady@zianet.com

“Michael had always talked about owning a black Labrador but when Belle cuddled her head against his neck at the shelter, it was ‘puppy love at first sight.’ The hound-Doberman mix pup had just been found at Wal-Mart and during the owner claim period, Michael was like a kid waiting for Christmas.

Belle has since been a surrogate mother to a new kitten, she loves to go hiking with Michael, she thinks kids are lots of fun and she travels well…she’s Michael’s ‘million dollar dog.’

STATE FARM INSURANCE COMPANIES HOME OFFICES: BLOOMINGTON ILLINOIS

CHUCK JOHNSON Agent

Car • Home • Health • Life #1 Ranch Club Road Silver City, NM 88061

www.statefarm.com

Off: 505-538-5321 Toll Free: 888-616-0884

Mia Zia Publishing “We had trapped a couple of mice in our building, but we knew there were more,” said LeAnn Knudsen of Zia Publishing. “Karen Porter, Arlyn Cooley and I convinced Terri to let us adopt a cat. At the shelter, we found one that was used to being indoors, and had a pretty coat, which we thought might be important for the business.

Mia has adapted very well to the office environment and we haven’t seen another mouse.”

16 – SILVER CITY LIFE

SILVER CITY

US Hwy. 180 East Directly behind Wendy's

1103 Superior Street Silver City, NM 88061

1-800-HOLIDAY 505-538-2525

Holiday Inn Express SILVER CITY The Holiday Inn Express in beautiful Silver City is your ticket to a Southwest adventure. Let our friendly staff aid you in exploring the wonders of the Silver City area from a convenient homebase that features a fully equipped cardio workout room, spa facilities, complimentary Express Start breakfast and free high speed Internet access in every room.

www.hiexpress.com

Small town values and

t s e B

SMALL TOWN...

Silver City has become an American destination for vacations, relocation and retirement because its rich heritage and quality of life are plainly evident.

Small town values which entice former residents to “come back home” are the foundation supporting a solid arts community, the preservation of historic architecture, a university atmosphere, cultural diversity, endless outdoor activities (in one of the best climates imaginable) and a list of year-round events that just won’t quit.

The writers who rank Silver City among the “Best Small Towns” in America base their conclusions on factors that are an integral part of the local lifestyle. Coffee houses and bakeries are simply where the locals discuss their literary achievements, or the Olive Warbler spotted at Cherry Creek. The dinner menus, wine lists, and desserts are excellent and when a new shop, a play, or an art show opens…everybody attends.

Modern Maturity Magazine’s choice of Silver City as the #3 Small Town in America noted such factors as neighborliness, restaurants, ease of getting around on foot, ethnic diversity, recreational options, and most important, “cultural vitality." A presentation by the New Mexico Symphony, the five-day Tour of the Gila bicycle stage race and the Blues Festival are the types of activities this small

“cultural vitality” enhance the Silver City area lifestyle. above: The locally operated Silver City Golf Course is a challenging 18-hole experience. opposite, left to right: The Gila Rangers Cowboy Action Club takes a break at the Visitors Center cabin. Savory Barbeque is prepared at a Gough Park festival. Lounging in the Gila River near their campsite brings the whole family together.

mountain community has come to expect.

The Southwest and fine art found in galleries lining three of the historic downtown streets has become both an attraction and a significant year-round factor in the local economy. John Vilani highlighted Silver City in his book,

SILVER CITY VISITORS GUIDE – VG3

Silver City is a vibrant community with lots to share.

Hundred Best Small Art Towns in America.

Histories of the area’s mining and cattle industries are displayed in its museums, as well as the world’s largest permanent display of ancient Mimbres Indian pottery.

The Victorian style homes and buildings throughout the historic district reflect the prosperity of the boom eras and the desire to build an enduring community. Silver City was chosen one of The National Trust for Historic Preservation’s Dozen Distinctive Destinations in 2002.

The opportunities for both cultural and outdoor activities, in a crisp mountain air environment, no doubt contributed to Norman Ford including Silver City in the top 1% of The Healthiest Places to Live and Retire in America.

The Gila Cliff Dwellings National Monument, located in the middle of more than three million acres of national forest, is the area’s biggest attraction. It is, however, only the beginning of the adventures surrounding Silver City. Forts, an opera house, ghost towns, lakes and streams, birding, historic chapels, unique recreational sites and extraordinary Sunday afternoon drives contribute to an unsurpassed outdoor agenda.

Silver City is a vibrant community with lots to share with its neighbors, both far and near. One visit will make it your destination of choice.

Above, left to right: Dan Pacheco and Greg Renfro perform at Vicki’s during the Blues Festival, Kevin McCauley shares a tale with cowboy poet Baxter Black, Dr. Brian and Margaret Robinson enjoy mountain biking with sons Michael and Patrick, and the Independence Day parade attracts walkers as well as horses and mechanized entries. left: An afternoon on Yankie Street in the historic downtown art district.

ON THE COVER: World-renowned bands set the crowd in motion at the Silver City Blues Festival. Top artists participate in the three-day festival held at Gough Park May 28-30, 2004. Special evening performances are held in area nightclubs.

Custom Homes Built with the Best in Materials and Craftsmanship

For Information Contact:

Mimbres Region Arts Council 1201 Pope Street Silver City, NM 88061 505-538-2505 1-888-758-7289 www.mimbresarts.org

CONTENTS 2

7

9

Best Small Town.

An American Destination. Ideal lifestyles and surroundings garner national recognition.

11 Quality of Life.

Involvement, Recreation and Climate.

14 Area Attractions.

Diverse and Unique.

Historic Downtown.

A Glance into the Past. Boomtown era buildings and sites continue to serve the community.

18 The Great Outdoors.

Adventure Opportunities.

Birding, biking, camping and fishing are among the options of the forest.

Cultural Commitment.

Museums, Galleries & Performing Arts.

22 Special Events Major Annual Performances.

SILVER CITYVISITORS GUIDE Silver City Grant County Chamber of Commerce

Project Coordinated by the Tourism Committee Neysa Pritikin Chairman

201 N. Hudson St. Silver City, NM 88061 (800) 548-9378 www.silvercity.org Cissy McAndrew Executive Director

Floyd Robertson Patrick Conlin Century 21-Thompson Realty Vice President

Henry Cwieka Smith Real Estate Secretary

Raymond Welborn Am Bank Treasurer Directors

Dale Lane

Keith LeMay Luis Perez Jackie Blurton Joseph Burgess Gerald C. Hammon Contributing Writers

Jackie Blurton Joseph Burgess Joe Butts Cissy McAndrew Bob Pelham Silver City Museum Dale and Marian Zimmerman Contributing Photographers

Linda McGee

Lynn Janes Mary Catherine Meek

Scott Mills Mills Cooper Motors

Julie Morales WNMU

Lanny Olson Holiday Inn Express

Neysa Pritikin Wells Fargo Home Mortgage

Skip Thacker Retired

Ilene Wignall KNFT Radio

Alex Brown Ex-officio City Manager

Becky Smith Ex-officio Smith Real Estate

Tony Trujillo Ex-officio Phelps Dodge

1 02 58 #0 Lic. N.M.

505-313-5140 l 888-217-7962 www.timberlandconstruction.com

ernie@timberlandconstruction.com

Visitors Guide Committee

Lois Lane Plaza Stone, McGee, CPA

We are proud to be listed by the Small Business School as a respected and reputable business in our community and industry.

Jackie Blurton Cissy McAndrew Faye McCalmont Terri Menges

2004 BOARD OF Special Thanks To: DIRECTORS Susan Berry Copper Creek Ranch President

Member of: • National Home Builders’ Association • New Mexico Home Builders’ Association • Las Cruces Home Builders’ Association • Silver City Grant County Chamber of Commerce • Las Cruces Chamber of Commerce • Three Valley Business Association

Advertising Sales Silver City Visitors Guide is published annually

by Zia Publishing Corp. with offices at: 611 N. Hudson Street Silver City, NM 88061 Phone: 505-956-1560 Fax: 505-956-1580 E-Mail: info@ziapublishing.com Website: www.ziapublishing.com © Zia Publishing Corp., 2004. This issue of the Silver City Visitors Guide is copyright under the laws of the United States of America. All rights reserved. Reproduction in whole or part without permission of the publisher prohibited.

For permission to use any portion of this publication email: info@ziapublishing.com. All submissions of editorial or photography are only accepted without risk to the publisher for loss or damage. Every effort was made to ensure accuracy in the information provided.

The publisher assumes no responsibility or liability for errors, changes or omissions.

It’s why people move to Silver City!

L

ocated approximately 5 miles west of Silver City on Hwy 180 W. bordering the Gila National Forest, Wind Canyon Estates boasts breathtaking views — some as far away as Arizona. Enjoy the native vegetation of beautiful wildflowers, yucca, and stately piñon, juniper, cedar and oak evergreens. 10 acre parcels priced from $60,000. Definitely a place to explore!

Wind Canyon Estates Enchantment Realty 501 Silver Heights Blvd.

Silver City, NM 88061

1-800-456-3132 505/538-2931 www.silvercity-realestate.com

SILVER CITY VISITORS GUIDE – VG5

SILVER CITY BUSINESS DIRECTORY

the art of relaxation

AMBULANCE SERVICES AEROMED ARIZONA. Service to All 48 States. Based in Silver City, New Mexico. Dispatch Toll Free 1-888-327-9538

AUTOMOTIVE WERNER TIRE. Goodyear and most other tire brands, emergency road service, batteries, complete exhaust service, complete front-end repair and service. 1155 Hwy. 180 E. 505-538-3807 MILLS COOPER MOTORS. New and Used Car and Truck Sales. Cadillac/Chevrolet. New Car Leasing, Service, Parts, 2810 Hwy. 180 E., Silver City. 505-538-5385 1-800-376-2233

BUILDERS BLACKHAWK SOUTHWEST, INC. American Polysteel insulated concrete forms for residential and commercial construction.

505-538-0570. lagilahomes.com or Blackhawksw@zianet.com CHAVEZ CONSTRUCTION. We build custom quality homes to fit your budget. We do roofs, remodels, additions, etc. Call today for a free estimate. 505-388-1886 www.chavezconst.com HOLRAY CONSTRUCTION. Residential and commercial.

Silver City’s premium builder. License # 80967. Contact us today for your building needs. Phone/Fax 505-388-1524 holray@gilanet.com TIMBERLAND CONSTRUCTION. Specializing in Fine Custom Homes in Silver City, Grant Co., Deming and Las Cruces. Cell: 313-5140. 888-217-7962 timberlandconstruction.com

BUSINESS SIGRED. Silver City Grant County Economic Development Corp. and SBDC: Small Business Development Center. Business assistance you can use! Besse-Forward Global Resource Center, WNMU. 505-538-6320 www.silvercity-business.com

DINING

S PA • S ALON • G ALLERY L ODGING • Y OGA Reservations & Appointments: (505) 534-1600 • Fax: (505) 534-1256 101 N. Cooper Street Silver City, New Mexico 88061

New adventure tours to Copper Canyon www.cienegaspasalon.com

ALOTTA GELATO. Serving wonderful Italian Ice Cream (Gelato) & Fresh baked dessert items. Open 7 days a week at Noon ‘til 9 or 10pm. 619 N. Bullard. 505-534-4995 COPPER CREEK RANCH. Chuck Wagon Supper & Western Show. Family dining on Fri. and Sat. nights, Memorial Day thru Labor Day. Reservations appreciated. 20 Flury Ln., Silver City.

505-538-2971 www.coppercreeklady@zianet.com COPPER CREST COUNTRY CLUB. Serving the community for 37 years. Quality cuisine and excellent service in a relaxed atmosphere, family activities and swimming lessons combine to make membership a worthwhile and timely investment.

720 Fairway Dr. 505-538-2712 EL PAISANO. Authentic Mexican. Home of the chimichangas. Serving wine, a variety of Mexican and American beers and margaritas. 802 E. 15th Street, Silver City. 505-538-5803 VICKI’S EATERY. A locals favorite! Hearty, healthy soups, sandwiches, specials & vegetable fare. Mon.-Sat. 10:30-3:30.

107 W. Yankie, downtown, Silver City. 505-388-5430

FEED STORES A & L FEED AND SUPPLY Full line of Equine Feed and Tack, Wild Bird Seed, Hay, Panels, Pet Food, Electric Fence Supplies.

Your neighborhood feed store. Free coffee. Corner of Hwy. 90 S. and Truck Bi-Pass. 534-9200

FINANCIAL AMBANK. Your home owned and managed independent full service bank. Decisions are made here. 3 locations: Hurley, Bayard and Silver City. 505-534-0550 or 800-440-8751 EDWARD JONES & CO. Kevin M. Thompson. 106 W. 13th St. Ste. A, Silver City, NM 88061 505-538-3719. 1-800-376-3719 Providing conservative investments since 1871.

FIRST NEW MEXICO BANK. Your Independent, Full Service Hometown Bank with local decisions. 1928 Hwy 180 E. and also Wal-Mart in Silver City. 505-388-3121 HOMETOWN MORTGAGE OF NEW MEXICO. Purchase, Refinance, Seconds. Locally owned. Member of BBB. Equal Housing Lender. 212 E. 12th St. 505-534-2945 or 888-830-6800 NEW YORK LIFE INSURANCE CO. James Edd Hughs, Broker, 304 E. 17th Street, Silver City, NM 505-534-9480 WELLS FARGO BANK. Your local community bank. Corner of 12th & Pope, Silver City. 505-538-5302

FOUNDATIONS

SILVER CITY

Museum GIFT SHOP In the H.B. Ailman House

Books & Regional Gifts Tues.-Fri. 9:00-4:30 Sat.-Sun. 10:00-4:00 Closed Monday 312 W. Broadway, Silver City, NM

505-388-5721 www.silvercitymuseum.org

VG6 – SILVER CITY VISITORS GUIDE

GILA REGIONAL MEDICAL CENTER. Taking care of southwest New Mexico. An unusually good hospital with a broad scope of quality services. 1313 E. 32nd St., Silver City, NM. 505-538-4000

FUNERAL HOMES BACA'S FUNERAL CHAPELS. Full-service funeral firm, cremations, monuments, pre-arranged plans available, respecting all religious beliefs. Hwy. 180 at Delk Dr. 505-388-2334

FURNITURE & HOME DECOR FURNITURE GALLERY INC. & SLEEP SHOP. Brand name furnishings: Lazyboy, LaCrosse, Sealy, Simmons and TempurPedic. 1300 Silver Heights Blvd., Silver City. 505-388-3109 www.thefurnituregallery.com HOME FURNITURE. Largest Showrooms in southwest New Mexico. Family owned and operated in historic downtown Silver City for 67 years. 207 Bullard. 505-538-3767 SILVER CITY BUSINESS DIRECTORY

LEGACY LIGHTING. We're lights & so much more. We also have framed prints, rugs, fountains, antiques and kitchen and bar accessories. Many wonderful things for gift-giving, or for yourself! M-F 10am.-6pm. 1304 N. Hudson, 505-388-1226 ...continued on page VG13

Photo courtesy Silver City Museum

Historic Downtown top, left: A photo taken on Bullard Street between 1917 and 1919, is from the John Harlan Collection, Book 1, Vol. 2 courtesy the Silver City Museum. top, right: Clock reinstalled on City Hall at the corner of Bullard and Broadway originally identified the local bank. above: A recent image looking north on Bullard Street in the historic downtown area.

Majestic columns, Victorian detail, innovative tile work, and even the old clock at Bullard and Broadway, provide an exciting trip back in time for Silver City visitors. A city ordinance passed in 1880 restricted building materials to adobe, brick and stone, giving permanence to many early structures. Partnering with Silver City's MainStreet Project, the community has restored the downtown area and created a dynamic shopping, dining and arts district.

Wooden buildings built prior to the town's incorporation included the childhood home of Billy the Kid. A log cabin, donated by director Ron Howard from the movie set of The Missing, now sits near the original homesite.

The town’s Main Street was replaced by a 55-foot crevice during flooding a century ago, and is now a tranquil park and site of the Big Ditch Art Fair.

The intricate Victorian home of A. B. Ailman became the Silver City Museum and is the point of origin for historic walking tours (available by appointment). The recently re-constructed La Capilla Chapel provides an excellent vista of the town.

GRANT COUNTY TIMELINE– PRE-STATEHOOD ~ 3000 B.C. First evidence of farming north of Silver City.

A.D. 900-1000 Mogollon culture began living in pit houses and multistory surface structures. Mimbres culture was a splinter group of the Mogollon.

1280s Gila Cliff Dwellings built by Mogollon culture.

1300 Mogollon culture disappeared.

1100-1540 Nomadic Apaches began moving into and through the area, mining turquoise and copper.

1539 Spanish Explorers marched about 60 miles west of the future Silver City.

1804-1806 Mexican merchant Don Francisco Manuel Elguea mined copper at Santa Rita for the Mexican mint.

1848 New Mexico became a territory of the United States.

1860 Gold discovered in Pinos Altos.

1866 Ft. Bayard established to protect the mines from the Apaches.

1870 Silver mining began near the San Vicente Cienega and Silver City was established as a town.

1873 Billy the Kid and his mother and step-father moved to Silver City.

1882 The first public school in New Mexico opened in Silver City.

1878 Silver City became the second incorporated community in NM. 1893 NM Territorial Normal School (WNM University) established.

1899 Gila Forest established by President McKinley. Fort Bayard becomes a government hospital.

1895 & 1902 Floods washed out Main Street leaving a 55-foot gulch known since 1910 as the Big Ditch, now a park.

1912 New Mexico becomes a state.

— From Built to Last: An Architectural History of Silver City, NM, co-authored by Susan Berry and Sharman Apt Russell Ft. Bayard Historical Preservation Society

E K L E K T I K A S fine art • sculpture • folk art • antiques • jewelry • custom interiors Mexican colonial and contemporary furniture • lamps • Oriental rugs

EKLEKTIKAS 703 N. Black Street Silver City, NM 88061

EKLEKTIKAS II 104 Yankie Street Silver City, NM 88061

505.538.8081 www.eklektikas.com

Photo by Joe Butts

Museums, Galleries Performing Arts

&

"Cultural Vitality" is a phrase used by Modern Maturity Magazine to describe an important aspect of its community surveys.

Silver City, the number three choice of small towns in one of the

above: Visiting performers from The Little Angels demonstrate oriental instruments at a reception in their honor.

recent national reviews, has a deeply embedded commitment to its history and the arts. Its museums, galleries and an impressive selection of live performances, help to position the community near the top of lists in significant national surveys.

Silver City’s recognition for its cultural depth results from the dedication and organizational expertise of numerous local groups, and the overwhelming volunteer efforts and financial support of the entire community. The city is proud of its achievements and is anxious to share them with its visitors from around the world.

The museums of Silver City showcase both the ancient and modern histories of the area. The H.B. Ailman home, built in 1881, was saved from destruction by an energetic and persistent group of local individuals who recognized its potential as a museum. The detailed Victorian design of the building clearly reflects the late 1800's era of confidence, prosperity and anticipated future growth of the SILVER CITY VISITORS GUIDE – VG9

WNMU Museum

Lois Duffy, in front of her painting of Frank Lloyd Wright, is a Yankie Street gallery owner.

community. Displays, photographs, and records depict the growth of the mining and cattle industries, and of the community itself.

The Western New Mexico University Museum has the distinction of housing the world’s largest permanent display of ancient Mimbres Indian artifacts. The museum also features a life-size cutaway replica of a Mimbres pit house to help visitors visualize homes built by the native inhabitants 800 to 1100 years ago.

The growth of Silver City’s arts community is a result of the cultural and natural appeal of the area and from a concerted effort to diversify the regional economy. The establishment of an art market unique to Silver City is indeed contributing to the economic base. Regular openings, tours, galas, and other special events have dramatically increased local involvement and developed Silver City as an arts destination. The arts play a role in almost every celebration and there are major festivals dedicated specifically to the arts. There is no doubt that art is an integral and key segment of Silver City’s lifestyle.

The performing arts programs and the array of venues in the Silver City area support a growing pool of local talent and national/international touring groups. Recent renovations to the WNMU Fine Arts Center Theater allow the 975-seat auditorium to handle large-scale professional productions. Dances, musicals, opera, theatre, and more (with truckloads of props and backdrops) can now entertain audiences of all ages throughout the year. The isolated mining camp of the 1800’s has come of age, providing superior performances to appreciative small town audiences and visitors.

Self-guided art and historic walking tours offer an in-depth foundation for those wanting to discover more about the community that has always been full of vitality…cultural and otherwise. The reconstruction of La Capilla Chapel, overlooking the downtown district, resurrects an intriguing chapter of local lore and other restoration projects are in early stages of development. Even the hundred-year history of Silver City’s “Big Ditch” has been a factor in defining the community.

Come to Silver City and write your own page in history. Our doors are open for an unforgettable experience.

VG10 – SILVER CITY VISITORS GUIDE

The 30th anniversary of the Western New Mexico University Museum will be celebrated November 6th, 2004, 30 years and two days after it originally opened its doors to the public. The black and white gala event will serve as a fundraiser for the Silver City landmark. In 1973, to form the museum, the university accepted a gift consisting of the Richard C. Eisele Collection of Mimbres and southwest artifacts. Gift conditions included permanent public display, prohibition against the permanent loan of any portion of the collection, and maintaining the integrity of the collection, (i.e. no part could be sold or donated). The collection was originally purchased in the 1950’s with contributions from the Silver City Rotary Club and a number of local individuals and businesses.

The museum’s first big gala was the Grand Re-Opening of the Museum’s Main Floor Exhibitions in 1997. Exhibition renovation was made possible by donations from E. Donald and Janet Kaye, and Associated Students of Western New Mexico University (ASWNMU) student fees.

Included in the museum’s extensive collections are the world’s largest permanent display of Mimbres pottery, artifacts, and culture; the O.C. Hinman Collection of historic photographs; Maria Martinez pottery; and even the horse-drawn buggy of Colonel John W. Fleming that was donated

by Scott Nichols. Fleming, as mayor of Silver City, insured the original 20-acre donation of town land on which the university was built in the 1890’s. Fleming subsequently became one of the first members of the board of regents and the building housing the university museum was named in his honor.

The museum building, designed by southwest architects Trost and Trost in 1916, originally housed the university’s gym and science labs. Professor Jesse Bingaman conducted his classes in the downstairs labs.

Admission is free to the museum and its gift shop. The museum is handicap accessible and is open Monday-Friday 9 to 4:30 and Saturday and Sunday 10 to 4. The museum is normally closed during university holidays and breaks, so please call ahead for schedules, special events and membership information: (505) 538-6386.

STATISTICS CLIMATE L Jan 23 Feb 25 Mar 29 Apr 33 May 42 Jun 52

Semi-arid.

H 46 50 57 66 76 88

Jul Aug Sep Oct Nov Dec

L 58 54 49 39 28 23

H 88 78 78 67 54 48

Annual Moisture: 15.69 inches

POPULATION City 10,545 County 31,002 County Size 4,356 sq. miles

TAXES ’03 rate per $1000 net taxable value: Residential 14.033-18.953 Non-residential 19.255-25.071 ’03 Gross Receipts 6.625

GILA REGIONAL MEDICAL CENTER 68 Beds, 610 Staff, 50 Physicians

WESTERN NEW MEXICO UNIVERSITY Graduate, Undergraduate and Associate Degrees

GRANT COUNTY AIRPORT Serving the area with daily commercial flights.

SILVER CITY GOLF COURSE 18-hole championship course.

CORRE CAMINOS TRANSIT County-wide scheduled transportation.

LOCATION Silver City is located in southwest New Mexico, Grant County along the Continental Divide, in the foothills of the Pinos Altos Range, an extension of the Mogollon Mountains. Silver City is centrally located at the junction of US 180 and NM 90 almost equidistant to Denver, Dallas and Los Angeles... and to El Paso and Tucson.

DIRECTIONS On US 180, travel southeast 62 miles from Glenwood or west 52 miles from Deming. On NM 90 and US 70, travel 44 miles northeast from Lordsburg.

MORE INFORMATION Silver City Grant County Chamber of Commerce and Visitors Center 201 N. Hudson Street Silver City, NM 88061

1-800-548-9378 505-538-3785 For a complete listing of services check our website:

SILVER CITY Quality of LIfe

Silver City’s proximity to mountain recreation, its clean air and fabulous climate are just some of the qualities considered with national writers when they recognize a community like Silver City as one of the Best Small Towns in America. Character, friendliness, a rich heritage, community involvement, culture, and state-of-the-art facilities are among the attributes required to make the cut.

New Mexico moves at a slower pace than allowed by the internal gears of most urbanites, and so the local concern is that visitors will not be able to adjust and fully appreciate what the area has to offer. For some, a quiet cup of latté at a local bakery or coffee house is sufficient for stepping into a different world. For those more severely impacted by the unforgiving trials and tribulations of the city, a stronger antidote may be required to assist in the

above: Nestled in the foothills of the Mogollon Mountains, the university and historic districts can be viewed from La Capilla Chapel.

www.silvercity.org SILVER CITY VISITORS GUIDE – VG11

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505-538-3847

1-800-716-3847 VG12 – SILVER CITY VISITORS GUIDE

“decompression and relaxation” process. Excellent spa facilities are available for massage therapy or you could to catch a yoga class. A long soak in area hot springs can also sooth the body. The majority of Silver City’s shops and galleries, by the way, are within walking distance of a historic hotel, bed and breakfast establishments, a first class spa and several holistic healtlh facilities.

The arts and performing arts, and a long list of major events, help distinguish Silver City from most small towns. Galleries at the university and throughout the historic district have become a destination in their own right. Local, national, and international performances from ballet to drama are performed year-round in both new and renovated performing arts theaters. Nationally ranked mountain bike and road races and the Wild Wild West Pro Rodeo draw top international competitors. The Blues Festival continues to bring world-renowned bands to town and Fiesta de la Olla and Red Paint Powwow have rekindled the ethnic and cultural heritage of the community. Motorcycle rallies and car shows include strong participation from a three-state region.

The four-year university with masters programs and continuing education classes, intercollegiate sports and the arts is a major component of the small community. The university library and community libraries with internet access and inter-library loan systems connect the town to the world.

Transportation includes regularly scheduled regional airline flights through Mesa Air Group, a shuttle from major urban centers and a public transportation system that runs throughout the county. High speed communications have propelled Silver City into cyberspace, and its own public television station keeps an eye on local happenings.

Regional medical facilities include a 68-bed hospital with over 50 physicians and both county and private rehabilitation centers. A state hospital is operated at Ft. Bayard.

Area homes range from Victorian style brick abodes in the historic district to sprawling retreats in the wooded foothills that surround the city. There are still “good buys” to be found throughout the county, as well as properties that need a little TLC. Most major clubs and organizations can be found in Silver City and there are numerous opportunities for volunteerism. Probably nothing defines a community more strongly than “a sense of place” which is one of Silver City’s greatest assets.

As a regional hub, Silver City provides all the amenities of larger communities.

Clockwise from top left: Western New Mexico University; Gila Regional Medical Center; Lawrence Churchill, owner of Signal Peak, a broadband internet system; Dawn Sanford and Lora Collins of Mesa Airlines; Thomas Ogas, Linda Ortiz, Linda Reneau and Aurelio Flores of Corre Caminos Transit with passenger Virginia Chute; Ed Conley with Community Access Television of Silver (CATS).

GALLERIES ART AND CONVERSATION GALLERY & GATHERING. 614 N. Bullard St., Silver City, NM 88061 505-534-4881 www.Artandconversation.com EKLEKTIKAS. A distinctive gallery in a fine historical home.

Antiques, Paintings, Sculpture, Contemporary and Colonial Furniture, Custom Lamps, Oriental Rugs, Santos, Retablos, Handcrafted Timepieces, Unique Folk Art. 703 Black St., Silver City. PH/FX 505-538-8081 LEYBA & INGALLS ARTS SUPPLIES & GALLERY. Carries the finest in art supplies and art for the discriminating collector. 217 N. Bullard, Silver City. 505-388-5725 MIMBRES REGION ARTS COUNCIL. Promoting the Arts through festivals, events, performances, youth programs, visual arts exhibits, and arts and culture tours. 505-538-2505 or 888-758-7289 www.mrac.cc

GUEST RANCHES DOUBLE E GUEST RANCH. A ranch vacation with exciting horseback riding, roundups, spectacular scenery in southwestern New Mexico. 866-242-3500 www.doubleeranch.com GILA HOTSPRINGS RANCH, RV PARK, COUNTRY STORE & GALLERY. Customized Wilderness pack trips.

Natural hot springs, lodging, handcrafted gifts, books, gas, groceries. 505-536-9551 www.gilahotsprings.com

INSURANCE STATE FARM INSURANCE COMPANIES. Chuck Johnson, agent, car, home, health and life, # 1 Ranch Club Road, Silver City, NM. 505-538-5321 or Toll free 1-888-616-0884

LODGING BEAR CREEK CABINS. In the pines, 6 miles N. of Silver City in Historic Pinos Altos. Fireplaces, Hummingbirds, phones, TVs. 505-388-4501 or 888-388-4515 www.bearcreekcabins.com CASITAS DE GILA GUESTHOUSES & ART GALLERY. A Stress-Free Zone near Silver City. Our Casitas have full kitchens & fireplaces, solitude and wildlife. 1-877-923-4827. info@casitasdegila.com www.casitasdegila.com COPPER MANOR MOTEL & RED BARN STEAKHOUSE. Indoor heated pool and Jacuzzi. Cocktails. 710 Hwy. 180 E., Silver City. 505-538-5392 or 800-853-2916 DRIFTER MOTEL, PANCAKE HOUSE & LOUNGE. AAA, outdoor heated pool, dancing, sports bar, pool tables. 711 Hwy. 180 E. Silver City, NM. 505-538-2916 or 800-853-2916 ECONO LODGE. Indoor Heated Pool & Spa, Free Deluxe Continental Breakfast, Free High Speed Access. 120 Hwy. 180 E., Silver City, NM. 505-534-1111 or 1-800-55-ECONO www.econolodgesilvercity.com ENEBRO DEL NORTE LODGING. 2 bd., 1 ba. apts. Short or Long Term options. Basic furnished or furnished with “extras”.

Call RTT Properties. For more information: 505-388-2333.

HOLIDAY INN EXPRESS. The perfect home base for your Silver City and southwest adventures. Complimentary breakfast bar. FREE high speed internet access in all rooms.

Call our friendly staff. 1103 Superior St. (off Hwy. 180E.), Silver City. 505-538-2525 HOLIDAY MOTOR HOTEL. Direct Dial Phones, Color Cable TV, HBO, Clean, Low Daily & Weekly rates. All major credit cards.

Soon to be Motel 6. 3420 Hwy 180 E., Silver City. 505-538-3711 SPIRIT CANYON LODGE & CAFÉ. Located in the Gila Wilderness, Lake Roberts area. Small mountain lodge, rooms, cottages. Phone/Fax 505-536-9459 www.spiritcanyon.com or email: info@spiritcanyon.com THE COTTAGES. Mineral baths, A.C. and fireplaces.

Nestled in hundreds of acres of virgin forest on a canyon. Just 3 minutes to town. 800-938-3001 www.zianet.com/cottages THE INN ON BROADWAY. A B&B in historic downtown Silver City. Walk to galleries and restaurants. Private baths.

411 Broadway. 505-388-5485 www.InnonBroadwayweb.com WALNUT CREEK COTTAGES. Eleven miles NW of Silver City in the tall pines, private suites with fully furnished kitchens and decks. 1-877-220-9500 or 505-534-9624

MUSEUMS SILVER CITY MUSEUM. Regional history: mining, ranching, arts, Victoriana, Mimbres/Apache cultures. Research/ photographic archives. Excellent gift shop. 312 W. Broadway, Silver City. 505-388-5721 WNMU MUSEUM Features the largest permanent display of Mimbres pottery and artifacts. Additional exhibits. Gift shop.

Handicapped accessible. Free Admission. Fleming Hall, WNMU. 505-538-6386. www.wnmu.edu/univ/museum.htm

• Indoor Heated Pool & Spa • Full Cable TV with HBO & ESPN • In Room Coffee Maker & Hair Dryer • AAA, AARP, Group, Gov’t., Corp. Discounts • Refrigerator/Microwave Rooms Available • Guest Laundry

• FREE Deluxe Continental Breakfast • FREE High Speed Internet Access in all rooms • Business Center with High Speed Internet • Conference Room • Fitness Center • Courtyard with Fountain

1120 Hwy 180 E. Silver City, NM 88061

FEMA Approved

Reservations:

(505)-534-1111 1-800-55-ECONO www.econolodgesilvercity.com

EdwardJones & Co. Providing conservative investments since 1871.

Kevin M. Thompson

106 W. 13th St. Ste. A Silver City, NM 88061

505.538.3719 800.376.3719 www.edwardjones.com Call or drop in today!

• Stocks • Tax-free bonds • Mutual funds • CDs • Bonds • IRAs • Government Securities • Tax-deferred annuities ... and much more!

EdwardJones & Co.

Member NYSE and SIPC Serving individual investors from 9700 offices nationwide.

PHYSICIANS & SURGEONS BORDER AREA MENTAL HEALTH SERVICES, INC. Helping People Help Themselves. 315 S. Hudson, Silver City, New Mexico. 505-388-4412.

SILVER CITY OB/GYN. Donald H. Montoya MD. High risk pregnancy, Menopause, Infertility, Pelvic pain, Urinary Incontinence, Gynecological laparoscopy. 1290 E. 32nd Street, Silver City, NM. 505-388-3200.

SILVER ALTERNATIVE MEDICINE, PA. Treating the whole Person Naturally. Dr. Paul Stuetzer, Ph.D, DOM. Doctor of Oriental Medicine. 1301 Virginia St., Silver City. Entrance on 13th Street. 505-388-8858.

GRANT COUNTY ORTHOPEDIC ASSOCIATES. Sports Medicine, Fracture Care, Hand & Foot Surgery, Arthroscopy.

1268 E. 32nd St. Silver City. 505-534-1919

PUBLISHERS ZIA PUBLISHING. New Mexico’s elite design and publishing group. Quality advertising, brochures, catalogs, and magazines.

Call for quotes. 611 N. Hudson, Silver City. 505-956-1560. ...continued on page VG21

SILVER CITY VISITORS GUIDE – VG13

Lake Roberts

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Gila Cliff Dwellings

Gila Wilderness Area

Lake

Roberts Surrounded by the Gila 35 Gila National 15 National Forest Forest, Lake Pinos Altos Roberts is a Silver 152 man-made lake of over 180 City

seventy acres that offers some of the finest mountain fishing, boating, and camping in New Mexico. Lake Roberts features two campgrounds, a variety of nature trails, and an authentic Mimbreno Indian site.

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Silver City borders the 3.3 million acre Gila National Forest and serves as the hub for a diverse and exciting array of area attractions. Driving the Trail of the Mountain Spirits Scenic Byway serves as an excellent introduction to the culture and rugged terrain of the region. The loop includes the old west gold mining village of Pinos Altos, the Gila Cliff Dwellings National Monument, Lake Roberts, Bear Canyon Lake, San Lorenzo Mission (in the lush Mimbres Valley), the Santa Rita open pit copper mine, and the Ft. Bayard National Landmark.

Highway 180 West through Cliff and Glenwood offers Bill Evans Lake, the Catwalk National Recreation Trail, and the scenic gold mining ghost town of Mogollon. Highway 180 East accesses the City of Rocks State Park, which will soon be developed as a night skies camping site for stargazing.

Hot mineral baths are available near the cliff dwellings and City of Rocks.

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Gila Cliff Dwellings

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A path wanders through a lush, secluded canyon. A shady brook 180 runs year round from the heart of

15 35 Pinos Altos 152 a vast mountain wilderness which an ancient people once called Silver City home. It is here, at the Gila Cliff 180 90 Dwellings National Monument, that visitors can trace the footsteps of the Mogollon tribe who lived, farmed and thrived in the high sheltered dwellings nearly 700 years ago.

The National Monument is located approximately 44 miles north of Silver City, amidst some of the most breathtaking scenery and fascinating ancient wonders to be found. A walking tour explains the history of both the cliff dwellings and the people that lived within them. The caverns’ 42 rooms, some of which have been reconstructed, were used for living, storage and ceremonial purposes.

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Pinos Altos

Once a thriving gold mining town and the county seat, Pinos Altos (Tall Pines) is now a quiet village, just north of Silver City. A rustic elegance graces the quaint ice cream parlor, museum, old-fashioned saloon and melodrama playhouse. Legends of gunslingers, gold miners, and Apache raids come to life at every corner.

SILVER CITY VISITORS GUIDE – VG15

Gila Cliff

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The Mimbres 15 River Valley offers Pinos• a scenic drive Altos 35 152 • br e through a canyon 180

historically signifiSilver City 180 61 cant for its

90 Apache and •City of Rocks Spanish campsites and the ancient communities of the Mimbres Culture. The intricately painted Mimbres pottery and a reconstructed pithouse can be viewed at the Western New Mexico University Museum.

Picturesque chapels built in the 1800’s along the highway continue to serve the small farming villages.

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The City of Rocks, located 34 miles south of Silver City, is the perfect place for a fun-filled daytrip or picnic. The park features giant monoliths that were formed from the erosion of volcanic materials over an extended period of time. These huge, unusually shaped boulders are perfect for sightseeing or climbing. Picnicking and camping spots can be found throughout the park.

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Gila National The Catwalk Forest The National Recreation Catwalk FR142 Aldo Leopold Trail is situated in Glenwood Wilderness • 15 Area Whitewater Canyon 180 Cliff/Gila

• Silver 35 near Glenwood. The City 152 Catwalk is a series of 61 metal walkways secured 90 180 into the narrow canyon

walls that leads through some of the most beautiful parts of the canyon. Picnic facilities are located under the huge cottonwoods.

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The old railroad and cattle shipping 180

town of Hachita is located at the • 10 Deming crossroads of the

border route (NM 9) from 146 El Paso, and NM Hachita 9 146 from Interstate 10 to the Antelope Wells/El Berrendo limited port of entry to Chihuahua. The new east-west highway was once the rail route of the Sunset Limited.

The mining ghost town of Old Hachita can be visited by making prior arrangements through the Silver City-Grant County Chamber of Commerce.

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The ghost town of FR142 Aldo Leopold Mogollon, northeast Glenwood Wilderness • 15 Area of Glenwood, was 180 Silver 35

once a spirited gold City 152 and silver mining 61 community. With a 90 1 80 population of up to 2,000, Mogollon thrived up until the 1940’s, producing millions of dollars worth of silver and gold. Mogollon is now popular among sightseers and history buffs.

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Escape To Our Stress-Free Zone!

Perched on a bluff overlooking Bear Creek and the Gila Wilderness, Casitas de Gila Guesthouses makes a perfect base for your exploration of the entire Southwestern New Mexico area.

Gila Cliff Dwellings

Gila National Forest

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Visit cliff dwellings, ghost towns, and galleries.

Hike our 70 acres and nearby Gila Forest trails.

Nap in a hammock under the cottonwoods.

From the hot tub watch the moon rise above the cliffs.

Explore the clear, starry skies through our 10” telescope.

Relax with a book in our adobe courtyard.

Visit our art gallery.

Mining District

Casitas de Gila features 1- and 2-bedroom Guesthouses with full kitchens, kiva fireplaces, porches, bbq grills, picnic tables, and continental breakfast.

Gold fever created the need for a 15 Lake r Roberts Ri community, but it a Gil 152 was huge deposits of Silver 35 br e City copper that made 180 •

Santa Grant County a Rita Mine world-class metals 61 180 90 of producer in the 20th •City Rocks century.

Underground works quickly gave way to massive open pit haulage systems and new processing technology is driven by global competition.

The Santa Rita pit can be viewed from NM 152 east of Santa Clara. ve

M iddle Fo k r

Savor the peace and isolation of our incredible location just 30 miles northwest of Silver City.

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The farming and ranching communities of Cliff and Gila 180 Cliff Area

& Gila 35 are located where the 15 Gila River flows out 152 61 of the Mogollon Silver City Mountains. Cliff, is 90 180 the home of the Grant County Fair, and Gila is where straw bale construction technology was revived (and which is now an acceptable and regulated building practice throughout New Mexico). Hearty trout fishermen can access Rain Creek and Mogollon Creek in the Gila Wilderness through either village. Check with the Forest Service for access information.

Casitas de Gila GUESTHOUSES & ART GALLERY 50 Casita Flats Rd.• P.O. Box 325 • Gila, NM 88038 505-535-4455 • www.casitasdegila.com TOLL FREE

A

1-877-923-4827

Specializing in Gila/San Francisco River Valley and Secluded Rural Properties.

Action REALTY

8412 Hwy. 180 W P. O. Box 408 Cliff, NM 88028

Dale Spurgeon, Broker Toll Free 1-888-874-9891 dale@actionrealtynm.com • www.actionrealtynm.com

Doug Baird, Sales Associate 505-533-6838

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Bear Creek Motel Cabins LLC. Unique two-story cabins include fireplaces, secluded balconies, porches, phones, TV’s, and BBQ grills.

Cabins with kitchens available.

Nestled under the pines in historic Pinos Altos.

Gateway to the Gila Wilderness.

Seven miles north of Silver City.

505-388-4501 888-388-4515 P.O. Box 53082 Pinos Altos, NM 88053

www.bearcreekcabins.com

SILVER CITY VISITORS GUIDE – VG17

Mimbres Realty, Inc.

Hometown Agents Helping Make Your Hometown Better Specializing in: • Residential • Land/Ranches • Commercial • Property Management Home & Apartment Rentals

Main Office: 3130 Hwy. 180 East Silver City, NM 88061

505-538-3789 1-800-827-9197 Fax 1-505-388-1348 Branch Office: 503 North Bullard Silver City, NM 88061

505-534-4616 Call Anytime!

Visit Our Website at:

www.mimbresrealty.com VG18 – SILVER CITY VISITORS GUIDE

Photo courtesy Mimbres Taxidermy & Guide Service

OPEN 7 DAYS

OUTDOORS tgrheeat

By Jackie Blurton

Photo by Jackie Blurton

above: The vast Gila Wilderness surrounds the cliff dwellings highway and a narrow band of homes and hot springs. left: Outdoor activities in the Gila National Forest include fishing, hiking and mountain bike riding.

Recreation opportunities, fun, and adventure are as numerous and varied as the landscapes around Silver City and Grant County. From craggy desert canyons to alpine mountain peaks, there isn’t a byway or trail without a gorgeous mountain backdrop under a dome of sapphire blue sky. The air is so clean and pure that you imagine you’ve been granted the far sight of the eagle to see so clearly into the distance vistas. Grant County encompasses a large expanse of the Gila National Forest and is a natural setting for your favorite outdoor activities.

Although the region is mountainous, the southerly latitude and low humidity keep the climate moderate year round.

Bicycling. Mountain biking is one of the most popular local sports. Scenic forest roads and trails offer moderate as well as challenging rides to test your skills.

Road cyclists can enjoy scenic rides along the byways and river valleys on good roads with light traffic. The moderate winters, topography and high altitude have made this a popular winter training site for competitive racers.

Grant County is an excellent biking vacation destination.

Hiking. The 3.3 million acre Gila National Forest and the Continental Divide have extensive systems of maintained trails and solitude. From river valleys to forested mountain crests, the diverse terrain and

SILVER CITY VISITORS GUIDE – VG19

Wooded • Views • Paved Streets Underground utilities City water Lot sizes from 0.75 acre to 2.8 acres

Real Estate for Your World Thompson Realty

sm

Specializing in • Land • Commercial Property • Residential Property • Property Management 607 North Hudson Silver City, NM 88061

505-538-0021 800-358-0021

www.silver-nm.com

Each office is independently owned and operated VG20 – SILVER CITY VISITORS GUIDE

elevation also offer outstanding hiking in all seasons. Elk, mule deer, and wild turkey can often be seen.

Motorcycling. There are several exceptional motorcycle day trips on the scenic byways of Grant County.

Back roads with good pavement make this some of the best motorcycle touring in the Southwest.

Special Birds Come Here, Why Shouldn’t You?

By Gerald C. Hammon Within a short distance of Silver City you can find such rarities as the Olive and Red-faced Warbler, Painted Redstart, Grace’s Warbler, the endangered SW Willow Flycatcher, Greater Peewee, Common BlackHawk, Zone-tailed Hawk, Hepatic Tanager, and Magnificent Hummingbird. At Cherry Creek and McMillan campgrounds, a thirty-minute drive north of town, you are in warbler heaven. A ways further, you can follow Signal Peak Road to the haunts of the Oliver Warbler and several species of owls. At the Gila River Bird Habitat, a special management unit in the Gila National Forest, about 65% of the species found in New Mexico have been seen. The habitat is also noted as a nesting ground for the Common BlackHawk, as well as a major migration route and summer nesting grounds for a wide variety of songbirds including flycatchers, tanagers, and warblers.

Photo by Bob Pelham

Photo by Bob Pelham

S DO O S GRIEG

Silver City’s Premier Subdivision

Photo by Dale and Marian Zimmerman

Now Representing

There are many excellent birding locations throughout the area. You’ll appreciate the access to grasslands, piñon/juniper woodlands, riparian areas, and large tracts of ponderosa, mixed conifer, and aspen forests in Grant County and around Silver City. With such a diversity of habitat, it’s possible to view about 85% of New Mexico’s species.

Birding opportunities are good throughout the year. Spring migrations begin in April and the moderate climate offers good birding for fall migration and wintering northern species.

Birding maps and check lists are available at the Silver City/Grant County Visitors’ Center. Just bring your binoculars, Silver City and Grant County will take care of the rest!

Fishing. It’s morning on the Gila River and the riffles speak in many voices as the river rolls gently by. The quiet surface of the deep hole reflects the first sunlight on the tall hills above the river.

Your line arcs perfectly through the air and the river rewards you with a strike.

The Gila National Forest, in Grant County, has rivers and several lakes with trout, bass, channel cat, and perch awaiting your line. Solitude and plenty of country allow you a quality fishing experience.

above, left: a hustle, bustle of immature Rufous Humming Birds at feeder. above, center: a prized sighting for anyone is the male Vermilion fly Catcher. above, right: With sightings ranging in elevation of our highest peaks in summer to our lowest desert plains in winter, the year round majestic Golden Eagle.

REAL ESTATE ACTION REALTY. Specializing in Gila/San Francisco River Valley Properties and Secluded Rural Properties. Located In Cliff, NM. 888-874-9891 www.actionrealtynm.com CENTURY 21 THOMPSON REALTY. Residential land, commercial sales, investment & property mgmt. 607 Hudson, Silver City. 505-538-0021 or 800-358-0021 www.silver-nm.com COLDWELL BANKER. For all your real estate needs “Call the Enchantment Team.” See our ad on Page 5. 501Silver Heights Blvd., Silver City. 538-2931 or 800-456-3132 www.zianet.com/cber HACIENDA REALTY GMAC REAL ESTATE. Service You Deserve. People You Trust. 1628 Silver Heights Blvd., Silver City, NM 88061 505-388-1921. www.haciendasilvercity.com MIMBRES REALTY. Experienced, knowledgeable, professional realtors who care about your realty needs. Buying, selling, renting, homes, land, commercial properties. We do it all! 3130 Hwy. 180 E., Silver City. 505-538-3789.

RE/MAX SILVER CITY ADVANTAGE. Offering hometown experts with worldwide connections. See our ad on Page 12.

314 E. 14th Street, Silver City, NM. 505-538-3847 or 800-716-3847 www.remaxsilveradvantage.com SMITH REAL ESTATE & PROPERTY MGMT. Quality People, Quality Service for over 38 years. 505 W. College.

505-538-5373 or 1-800-234-0307. www.smithrealestate.com askus@smithrealestate.com.

SMITH REAL ESTATE MIMBRES BRANCH OFFICE. Servicing the Mimbres Valley. 3516 N. Hwy. 35, Mimbres, NM 505-536-3870. tim@smithrealestate.com www.smithrealestate.com

In the Mimbres Tim Donovan knows Land and Homes!

From the Gila Cliff Dwellings to Faywood Hot Springs, Tim Donovan knows the land and the people of the Mimbres country. He has explored it on foot, by Jeep and on Horseback.

He’s a Real Estate Professional with insight into people and issues from water rights to subdivision to hunting and forest regulations.

As a resident of the Mimbres Valley he can tell you about the weather, how deep the wells are and what a place is really worth.

He’ll help you find a contractor to build your home or the money to finance it. He’ll give you straight and honest answers to all your questions.

Give a call or come by the Smith Real Estate office in Mimbres.

RV & CAMPGROUNDS KAMPGROUNDS OF AMERICA - Silver City KOA . 50 and 30 amp RV Sites. Deluxe tent sites, Kamping Kabins®, heated pool. Modem hookup. 3 miles east of Silver City on US 180.

1-800-562-7623 SILVER CITY RV PARK. 48 sites, full hookups, large shade trees, hot showers, laundry. Close to city park, restaurants, shops. Behind the Food Basket Supermarket. 1304 N. Bennett.

505-538-2239

Mimbres Branch Office 3516 N. Hwy. 35 Mimbres, NM 88049

505.536.3870 office 505.534.7955 cell

SHOPPING A LA MODE FINE FASHIONS, ETC. Clothing and Accessories for the Young to Mature Woman in Petite to Plus Sizes. Located in Historic Downtown. 704 N. Bullard. 388-2474 MANY MOONS. Native American/New Mexican Products, Folk Art, Gallery, Coffee Bar. 4 Mi East of Silver City on Hwy 180, Arenas Valley. 10am-6pm, Sunday Too! Closed Tue/Wed. 505-534-2400 ROYAL SCEPTER GEMS AND MINERALS. Turquoise and Southwestern Jewelry, Fine Gifts, Minerals and Fossils, Free Mineral Museum. 1805 Little Walnut Rd. 538-9001 STAR MOUNTAIN TRADING. Handcrafted jewelry, gifts, Indian art, minerals, textiles, blown glass, pottery, books, music, jewelry supplies, 1000s of different beads. 409 N. Bullard. 505-534-0377 THE WESTERN & MEXICAN EMPORIUM. The most unique store in Silver City: decorative accessories. A “must see!”

Located at 308 S. Bullard, Silver City. 505-534-0218 VINTAGE FANTASIES. Hats galore, fashions, shoes, home accessories from the 1940s, '50s, '60s and '70s. Take a nostalgic shopping trip. 412 N. Bullard 505-388-4081 WESTERN STATIONERS. Cards, Gifts, Candy, Souvenirs, Arts & Crafts, T-shirts, Ribbon, Candles, Jewelry, Flags, Office Supplies, Rubber Stamps, Scrapbook Supplies, Albums, Fax Service, Puzzles and Furniture. 703 N. Bullard, Silver City 538-5324

tim@smithrealestate.com “Personally, I feel sorry for anyone who doesn’t get Tim for a Real Estate Agent.”

askus@smithrealestate.com www.smithrealestate.com www.realtor.com

John Ferrell Full Service Camping

Silver City KOA

SPAS CIENEGA SPA. In the historic downtown area. Cienega provides serenity and personal service. Suites for spa treatments, salon and yoga studio. Spend an hour or a day. 101 N. Cooper St., Silver City. 505-534-1600 www.cienegaspasalon.com

STORAGE BY-PASS STORAGE. 4028 Hwy. 90 S., Silver City, NM 88061 505-388-2200 or 1-888-829-7277.

TRANSPORTATION AIRPORT SHUTTLE AND CHARTER SERVICE. Daily passenger and courier services between Silver City, Deming, Las Cruces and El Paso seven days a week since 1985.

1-800-288-1784, and in Las Cruces 505-525-1784.

Quality People, Quality Service for Over 38 Years

Your Hosts Jim and Jackie Blurton

We pride ourselves on cleanliness and outstanding service to our guests.

3.5 miles East of Silver City on Hwy. 180 (505) 388-3351 Great people.

Reserve: 1-800-562-7623 Great camping.TM www.koa.com

UTILITIES TEXAS NEW MEXICO POWER CO. Business Office is located at 302 Broadway and Construction Center is located at 3815 N. Swan. Business Office 505-538-3741

WILDERNESS GUIDE GARY WEBB GUIDE & OUTFITTERS. Specializing in guided horseback trips in the Gila & Aldo Leopold Wilderness. Horse and Rider Training, Pack Trips. HC 68, Box 149 K, Lake Roberts, NM 88061. 505-536-9368 GILA WILDERNESS VENTURES. Fun On Horseback!

Day Rides, Scheduled Pack Trips, Custom Pack Trips, Drop Camps. 866-677-2008. leah@gilawildernessventures.com www.gilawildernessventures.com MIMBRES TAXIDERMY AND GUIDE SERVICE. Custom day, overnight and multi-day trips. Fishing trips, photo and sightseeing trips, wagon rides. 505-536-9685. HC 71 Box 497, Mimbres, NM 88049 www.gilaoutfitters.com SAN FRANCISCO RIVER OUTFITTERS. Horseback Vacations, Trail Rides to Multi-Day Pack Trips, Beginners Welcome, Gentle Mountain Horses, Comfortable Camps. 505-539-2517 sfroutfitters@gilanet.com www.gilanet.com/sfroutfitters U-TRAIL. Gila Wilderness horseback vacations that friends and family can enjoy. Call for details and information package.

505-539-2426 www.utrail.com email: utrail@gilanet.com

An independently owned and operated firm.

Service You Deserve. People You Trust.

1628 Silver Heights Blvd. • Silver City, NM 88061

505-388-1921 www.haciendasilvercity.com E-mail: haciendarealty@cybermesa.com SILVER CITY VISITORS GUIDE – VG21

Main Street Celebration of Spring

Red Paint Powwow

l a i c e sp

2004

Events

Wild Wild West Pro Rodeo

Tour of the Gila Bicycle Race. April 28-May 2. This National Geographic Adventure bicycle race is widely known as one of America’s most challenging events.

The 5-day long stage race consists of approximately 24,000 feet of incline and also includes races for beginners and intermediates. Cycling along the edge of the nation’s first wilderness and over the rugged Trail of the Mountain Spirits Scenic Byway, the Tour of the Gila is taxing for the best of cyclists. Laps through Silver City’s historic districts are the thriller for area residents, who watch the skill and control exerted by experienced riders from across North America.

Silver City Blues Festival. May 28-30. Blues is an art that has found a home in Silver City. Thousands flock to the parks and lounges to experience the guitar sets and lyrics of some of America’s top blues bands. Set in the crisp mountain air of a growing arts community, blues enthusiasts celebrate the country’s renewed attachment to its deep-rooted music and dance into the wee hours of Silver City’s incredible summer nights.

Tour of the Bila

Wild Wild West Pro Rodeo. June 2-5. Silver City’s Wild Wild West Pro Rodeo lives up to its name, providing some of the most exciting entertainment in the region. Silver City’s purse attracts rodeo competitors and stock from the country’s best. Bronc riding, barrel racing and steer roping fire up the adrenaline, but it’s the bull riding that has spectators jumping out of their seats. The huge mass of animal muscle twisting and turning in the air makes any ride a feat and any finisher a champion.

Silver City Museum Fourth of July Ice Cream Social and Car Show

Silver City Blues Festival

Fourth of July Celebration. July 3. Parades, barbeque, craft booths and the Silver City Museum’s Ice Cream Social and car show fill the agenda for the Independence Day celebrations.

Fiesta de la Olla. July 16-18. “From the neighbor to the south comes Mexico’s legendary potter, Juan Quezada, with his renowned Mata Ortiz creations. Based on the works of the ancient Mogollon and Casas Grandes cultures, Quezada and his family enlighten potters and artists of the Silver City area on the painting and firing of their exquisite pottery.

Weekend At the Galleries. October 8-10. “Silver City’s annual art extravaganza, Weekend at the Galleries, begins with ‘A Taste of Wine Gala’ and gallery preview on Friday night of Columbus Day weekend. The event is in full swing from the first clink of a wine glass. The galleries feature their original and uniquely Silver City works, while street events entertain children and minstrels fill the air with music

Silver City Blues Festival

Day of the Dead. TBA Special art shows in the galleries and decorated altars help celebrate the Día de los Muertos in customary Mexican fashion.

Red Paint Powwow. January 7-9, 2005.

In a flurry of eagle feathers and beaded vests, Silver City’s second annual gathering of Indians from throughout New Mexico and Arizona is an enchanting experience for the southern regions. Browsing through a large selection of indigenous crafts and tasting native food tops off the Native American ceremonies.

Fiesta de la Olla

Day of the Dead

2004 SILVER CITY EVENTS April 2 Chris Smither. Folk Series at the Opera House. 538-2505, 1-888-758-7289 8-9 Culpepper & Merriweather Circus. 538-3785 9 MRAC Gallery Exhibit Reception, Works by San Vicente Artists.

1-888-758-7289 14Grant Co. Comm.

Concert Assn. East Meets West Chamber Music Quintet. 538-3785 16Melanie Zipin at the Buffalo Dance Hall. 538-2505 or 1-888-758-7289 16-18, 22-23 “Sylvia”.Production of WNMU Expressive Arts Depart. 538-6502 173rd Annual Southwest Golf Tourn. 538-0289 18Organ Instrumental Performances.

538-3578 23Student Exhibition Reception, WNMU. 538-6517 23Stacey Earle and Mark Stuart. Folk Series at the Opera House.

1-888-758-7289 24“Lozen – Woman Warrior” film documentary. 538-3785 25WNMU Band and WNMU Jazz Band Concert. 538-6617 25 The Man Without a Past,Int’l. Film Society. 538-5142 28-May 2 18th Ann. Nat’l. Geographic Adv. Tour of the Gila Bicycle Race.

388-3222 May 1-Oct 2 Grant County Art Guild Summer Time Art Show.

538-8216 1 Copper Cowbelles Shindig. 538-5864 5-8 Salt of the Earth Symposium.

538-5921 6,9 The “How To” workshop for success.

538-3785 7 Josh Bogin. Folk Series at the Opera House.

538-2505 or 1-888-758-7289 7-9 Member Guest Golf Tourn.

538-5041 8 MainStreet Celebration of Spring Festival.

534-1700 16 Touching the Void, Int’l. Film Society.

538-5142 28-30 9th Annual Silver City Blues Festival.538-2505 or 1-888-758-7289 28-31 Mr. & Mrs. Golf Tourn.

538-3785 or 1-800-548-9378 29 MainStreet BluesBerry Brunch. 538-2505 or 1-888-758-7289 June 2-5 Wild Wild West Pro Rodeo.

538-3785 or 388-2586

VG24 – SILVER CITY VISITORS GUIDE

5

6th Annual Rodeo Parade and Wild Wild West Days Celebration.

535-2567 11 MRAC Gallery Exhibit Reception, Works by Elsie Dean. 1-888-7587289 12 6th Annual Pinos Altos Art Fair.

388-4202 13 The Barbarian Invasions, Int’l.

Film Society.

538-5142 19 Historic Downtown Music Showcase.

534-1700 19 “The Public Hanging” All Day Art Exhibits.

538-2505 19 Millie and Billy Ball at the Buffalo Dance Hall.

538-2505 or 1-888-758-7289 July 3-5 Firecracker Golf Tournament.

538-5041 3 Independence Day Parade, Park Activities, Ice Cream Social and Car Show at the Silver City Museum. 538-3785 6 MRAC Gallery Exhibit Reception, Works by MRAC Print Project.

1-888-758-7289 16-18 Fiesta de la Olla. 538-2505 or 1-888-758-7289 17-18 First Ann. Hummingbirds of NM Festival, Lake Roberts. e-mail: HBNM@gilanet.com 25 Since Otar Left, Int’l. Film Society.

538-5142 25 Solo Romantic Piano. Church of the Good Shepherd Recital Series.

538-3578 31 Hummingbird Banding at Grey Feather Lodge.

536-3206 August 6-8 Silver Invitational Golf Tournament.

538-5041 14-15 25th Annual Gun Show.

388-2360 15 TBA. International Film Society.

538-5142 20-22 Copper Country Cruizers’ Car Show.

388-3519 21-22 St. Vincent de Paul Annual Fiesta. 538-9373 22 Signal Peak Challenge: Mountain Bike Reg. Qualifier for Nat’l. Champ.

388-3222 September 3 John Tank at the Buffalo Dance Hall. 538-2505 or 1-888-758-7289 4-6 Annual Gem and Mineral Show.

538-3216 4-5 12th Annual San Vicente Art Fair.

388-4854

2-4 Annual Billy Casper Golf Tourn. 538-4067 9-12Annual Gila Thunder Bike Run. 388-2427 17-19 Ft. Bayard Historic Days.

388-4477 24 Frula Balkan Dance Group.

538-2505 or 1-888-758-7289 25 Taste of Downtown Silver City, Culinary Delights.

534-1700 29-Oct 3 Cliff, Gila, Grant Co. Fair.

388-1559 October 1-3 Club Championship Golf Tourn.

538-5041 2 Ann. Pinos Altos October Fiesta 538-0204 5-6 Silver Ladies President Cup Golf Tourn.

538-5041 7 Russian Seasons.

Grant Co. Com. Concert Assn.

538-3785 8-10 Ann. Weekend at the Galleries.

538-2505 15-31 Elizabeth I Exhibit. 538-6350 16 Geronimo Trail Shootout, Gila Ranger Tourn.

388-2531 30 Ann. WNMU Homecoming Parade.

November 6-7 Fall Partnership Golf Tourn.

538-5041 27 14th Ann. Lighted Christmas Parade.

534-1700 TBA Marine Corps Birthday Celebration. 388-1656 December 6 Annual Victorian Christmas.

538-5921 2005 SILVER CITY EVENTS January 7-9 2nd Annual Red Paint Powwow.

538-3785 15 Westwind Brass.

Grant County Comm. Concert Assn. 538-3785 17-18 Greg Brown.

538-2505 or 1-888-758-7289 21 Gregory Popovich.

538-2505 or 1-888-758-7289 February 4 Folk Series at the Opera House.

538-2505 or 1-888-758-7289 5 Annual Mardi Gras Dinner and Auction. 388-2331 12 Chocolate Fantasia. 538-2505 19 Teada/Ryan, Celtic Double Bill.

538-2505 or 1-888-758-7289 March 4 Folk Series at the Opera House.

538-2505 or 1-888-758-7289 TBA Victorio’s Run: NM State Championship Shoot. 388-2531

Silver City Blues Festival May 28-30

Promoting all the Arts in their richness to people of all ages.

Fiesta de la Olla July 16-18 John Tank Sept. 3

Millie & Billy Ball June 19

Mimbres Region

Arts council 1201 Pope St. • Silver City, NM

505-538-2505 • 888-758-7289 www.mimbresarts.org

Linda Keith

Hali Pekron – grand champ fiddler

Neysa Pritikin, Mike Coon, Al Davis

Cathriine Gorthy, Margo Hughes

Dianne Hamilton

out & about

Naomi & Sophia Magnason

The summer issue of Silver City Life has an emphasis on our animal friends, and a lot of humane society supporters turned out at Ft. Cobre for a Critter Country Bar-B-Q and fundraiser. Judy Jewel shared her candid photos of the event, grand champion fiddler Hali Pekron entertained the group and food was provided by Brewer Hill Catering. State Representative Diane Hamilton joined the festivities, we identified Victoria York and there was Neysa Pritikin chatting with Dr. Michael Coon. Another shot of Neysa was taken with Gail Hurd.

It sure looks like Floyd McCalmont and Rita Piedras in the chow line, Linda Keith filling her plate and Michelle Nichols in a photo with Geneva Pritikin. Also supporting the cause were Catherine Gorthy and Margo Hughes, Don Hamlin and Ward Rudrick, and Liz Kinneberg.

Walking dogs at the Grant County Humane Society prior to being aired on CATS TV were Carol Jean Aufrey and Arlyn Cooley.

The Volunteer Center that tracks opportunities for potential community volunteers had an open house in their Methodist Church annex that they share with Habitat for Humanity. Representing the Volunteer Center were Lisa Grinnell, Loren Nelson, Jennifer Johnston, Nancy

Don Hamlin, Ward Rudrick

Gail Herd, Neysa Pritikin

Cliff, Alex Zinner, Bob Reese and Connie Hostetler.

For the Habitat group were Don Trammell, Betty Conner, Marti Trammell, Rees Madsen, Frank Biggs, Nancy Oliver, John Hostetler and Sheryl Gribble.

A touch of fashion is included in this issue. Models Soraya Maynes, Carrie Bolin and Dyann Marquez modeled clothes from Star Mountain Trading Company at Allota Gelato. For the 2nd Annual KWNM Wells Fargo Spring Expo and Mills Cooper Motor’s Kids Talent Show, Naomi & Sophia Magnason modeled for Circle S in Deming and Morning Host Jeff St. John is shown assisting Lexi and Dominique Wallen, who modeled for The Ranch.

We are proud to have participated in the Heroes Welcome Parade through downtown Silver City. It honored our local 471st New Mexico Army National Guard Unit returning from a year in Iraq. Among those downtown excitedly cheering the unit’s safe return were Neysa and Geneva Pritikin. At Gough Park, former mayor and combat veteran John Paul Jones captured the essence of the crowd’s feelings with a few words that certainly hit the target. Warren and Beatrice Olsen chatted with Jim Foy and Bataan survivor Tom Foy. Senator Ben Altamirano drove one of the cars for the heroes and is photographed with Specialist Salvo.

Administrative Officer Sgt. Manny Garcia thanked God that “everyone came home in one piece,” and Brandon Perralt delivered a touching rendition of the National Anthem. Congratulations to SSG Jimmy & Becky Jackson for reenlisting and to the family members who were also in attendance.

Lexi & Dominique Wallen with Jeff St. John Brandon Perralt

Arlyn Cooley

Carol Jean Aufrey

Soraya Maynes, Carrie Bolin, Dyann Marquez

Jim & Tom Foy, Warren & Beatrice Olson

Geneva & Neysa Pritikin

Manny Garcia

Hero’s Welcome Ceremony

L

a

Floyd McCalmont, Rita Piedras

Victoria York

More than 155 Years of Work.

And That is Only the Beginning.

Geneva Pritikin, Michelle Nichols

Liz Kinneberg

I

f you ask a few of our policy holders why they chose New York Life, chances are they’ll mention our solid reputation as a safe, solid company.

That’s because we’ve spent the last 155 years earning their trust with quality products, legendary service, and responsible and intelligent investing.

Join the millions of New York Life policyholders who have placed their trust in us. Call me today for more information on our wide range of life insurance and financial products.

James Edd Hughs Agent New York Life Insurance Company 304 E. 17th Street Silver City, NM 88061 505-534-9480

The Company You Keep. ® ©2001 New York Life Insurance Co. 51 Madison Ave., New York, NY 10010

Lisa Grinnell, Loren Nelson, Jennifer Johnston, Nancy Cliff, Alex Zinner, Bob Reese, Connie Hostetler

Pro Force Investigations and Security Services Don Trammell, Betty Conner, Marti Trammell, Rees Madsen, Frank Biggs, Nancy Oliver, John Hostetler, Sheryl Gribble

SPC Salvo, Senator Ben Altamirano

John Paul Jones

Investigations, Criminal and Civil Armed and Unarmed Guards Escort and Carrier Services NRA Law Enforcement Firearm Instructor

505-388-8186

www.proforceinvestigationsandsecurity.com 315 S. Hudson • Plaza #12 Silver City, New Mexico 88061 SSG Jimmy Jackson and family

WESTERN & MEXICAN EMPORIUM Specializing in Furniture Home & Garden Decor Gifts & much more from Mexico & the Southwest

308 S. Bullard St. 505-534-0218 11-5 Monday thru Saturday

SILVER CITY LIFE – 19

“Theater…’That’s where the juice is!’ and

DIRECTING

WNMU THEATER

By Joe Burgess

Jack K. Ellis “Listen carefully to everything that goes on around you and be present,” says Jack K. Ellis, Associate Professor of Theater at Western New Mexico University, when asked what advice he would give to a young actor. “Take action, be a do-er… not just a watcher.

Acting occurs at a specific time and place and with participants… interaction is expected. Theatre is a metaphor. ” With a passion for the arts, Jack has directed 30 WNMU productions in the last 12 years. “The arts teach us what the world can be and what we as individuals can do within it.

Theater in particular gives us the opportunity to express our emotions, to examine our deeds within the protected realm of the stage, to test an idea without actually having to live with the consequences. The arts are the way we speak to ourselves across time and space. Acting teaches us to improvise, create partnerships, to get along and to make creative choices.”

“Watching young minds develop in the performing arts is like watching water starting to flow through pebbles…as the pebbles become moist, they begin to sparkle. I am

everywhere that people interact is a theater.” above: Professor Jack Ellis discusses a scene from Sylvia with Layne Catherine Anderson. Members of the cast are Beth Davis, Becky Carr, Whitney Vanderberg and Heather Castello. left: Jack discusses props with Production Manager Ann Marie Elder and works with the cast of Sylvia in the weeks prior to the April WNMU production.

dumbfounded that the first thing that is cut from the educational process is the arts. It has been proven that all academic learning increases when interfaced with the arts.”

Jack ended the 2003-2004 season with a performance of SILVER CITY LIFE – 21

Sylvia, by A. R. Gurney, a comedy about a man’s relationship with his dog…and, oh yes, his wife. Donations of both money and food that were received at the door were forwarded to the Grant County Humane Society, which has been a tradition for the last several years. “Donating to the shelter is our community outreach service.”

“Silver City is fortunate to have the Fine Arts Center Theater, the largest performing arts venue in the region. The university has turned an auditorium into a workable and flexible theater, which is not only important for the production itself, but also for the students who will be trained utilizing current technology. The next projects for the facility are seating and a new lighting/sound booth with more dimmers.”

“Theater must integrate with its host community…”

“What I would truly love to see in my lifetime,” Jack commented, “is for Silver City to host an annual arts festival modeled on Stratford, Ontario or Ashland, Oregon. The three-month theater festival would include a repertoire from Greek classics to modern drama. The town would be full of banners and flower boxes and musicians, and the old hotels and bed and breakfast facilities would flourish, providing a sustainable economic base for the whole region.”

Jack holds a Bachelor of Fine Arts Degree in Theatre, Speech and English from North Texas State University and a Master of Fine Arts from the University of Texas in Austin. He has worked with theater in Ft. Worth, Houston and New York, and has traveled in Greece, Italy, England and Spain. He received the Kennedy Center Bronze M9edal for technical contribution to the American College Theatre Festival, Region VI.

opposite: Interacting with cast member Heather Castello, Jack conveys the importance of facial expressions in the smaller Webb Theater. above: The cast takes a bow at the final performance of Sylvia. left: Heather Castello, Whitney Vanderberg and Becky Carr practice a scene one more time to achieve spontaneity.

SILVER CITY LIFE – 23

MRAC HONORED AS

Stacey Earle & Mark Stuart from the Folk Series at the Opera House

Ken Keppeler teaching the kids about instruments during a Fine Arts Fridays program.

Fly Dance Company from the 2003-2004 performance series

Exhibit of pots from Fiesta de la Olla

BEST IN NEW MEXICO

For the second year in a row, the Mimbres Region Arts Council has been rated number one among New Mexico’s 19 arts councils. The rating represents the highest standards of artistic and administrative excellence and influences funding from the New Mexico Arts Commission. The City of Santa Fe Arts Commission was rated number two.

“The Arts Council’s success is due in large part to the incredible community support we have. Hundreds of volunteers give countless hours of service and local businesses give thousands of dollars in funding. Without this foundation we would not have been able to achieve this Number One rating”, said Faye McCalmont, MRAC Executive Director.

Response to the needs of the community, the diversity and quality of the arts program and outreach efforts are key elements for the rating. The financial stability of the organization and project feasibility are also important considerations.

The 9th annual Silver City Blues Festival, sponsored by MRAC, is one of the state’s largest music events and strategic planning has been initiated for its expansion. Fiesta de la Olla features the potters of Mata Ortiz, Mexico, and Weekend at the Galleries draws visitors

Art exhibit from the Weekend at the Galleries

in support of local artists and businesses.

Day of the Dead is a new cultural celebration. The full performance season includes ethnic, local and international entertainment.

MRAC’s Partners in Education program links the MRAC, Grant County Schools, the WNMU School of Education and the Head Start Program with the Kennedy Center to provide arts integration workshops for teachers. Faye McCalmont noted that the council had also been recommended for funding by the National Endowment for the Arts for its youth mural project. Professional artists team up with teen-agers to produce murals expressing local history.

The art and culture programs of Silver City have a strong influence on the community’s national rankings. In addition to the MRAC programs, individual gallery openings, festivals, concerts, plays and international films throughout the year provide a continuous flow of cultural opportunity.

The MRAC gallery features a variety of local artists and work from the Silver City Print Project. Performances will include musical and family theater, comedy, folk and jazz music, Celtic and Balkan folk dance.

Frula Balkan Folk Dance Troup that will be performing in the2004-2005 season

OPENINGS, PERFORMANCES & SPECIAL EVENTS April Apr 2. 7:30pm. Chris Smither. Folk Series at the Opera House. For information call 538-2505 or 1-888-758-7289.

Apr 9. 5:00-6:30pm. MRAC Gallery Exhibit Reception featuring works by San Vicente Artists.

For information call 538-2505 or 1-888-758-7289.

Country Club COPPER CREST

• Fine Dining in a Relaxed Atmosphere

Apr 14. 7:30pm. Grant County Community Concert Association presents East Meets West Chamber Music Quintet. At the WNMU Fine Arts Center Theater. For information call 538-3785.

• Monthly Sunday Brunches

Apr 16.

7:30pm.

Melanie Zipin.

At the Buffalo Dance Hall. For information call 538-2505 or 1-888758-7289.

• Holiday Buffets • Seafood Saturday featuring the Freshest Seafood Menu in Silver City

Apr 16-18, 2223 “Sylvia”.

Production of WNMU Expressive Arts Department. For information call 538-6502 Apr 18. Organ Instrumental Performances.

At the Church of the Good Shepherd. For information call 538-3578.

Apr 23. 4:00-7:00pm. Student Exhibition Reception. At the WNMU McCray Gallery. For information call 538-6517.

Apr 23. 7:30pm. Stacey Earle and Mark Stuart. Folk Series at the Opera House. For information call 538-2505 or 1-888-758-7289.

• Swimming Lessons • Family Activities

Copper Crest Country Club has served the community for 36 years. Quality cuisine, excellent service and a relaxed atmosphere in renovated surroundings make your membership a worthwhile and timely investment.

538-2712

Apr 25. 3:00pm. WNMUBand and WNMU Jazz Band Concert. At the WNMU Fine Arts Center Theater. For information call 538-6617.

720 Fairway Drive Silver City, NM 88061

Apr 25. 4:00pm. The Man Without a Past.

International Film Society. At the Real West Cinema.

For information call 538-5142.

Apr 28-May 2.18th Annual Tour of the Gila Bicycle Race. For information call 388-3222.

May May 1-Oct 2.

Grant County Art Guild Summer Time Art Show. At the Historic Hearst Church in Pinos Altos. For information call 538-8216.

May 1. 6:30pm. Copper Cowbelles Shindig.

Location TBA. For information call 538-5555.

• Computerized Gates • Completely fenced

4028 Hwy 90 S Silver City, NM 88061

• Wide Driveways • Night Lighting

388-2200 • 888-829-7277 SILVER CITY LIFE – 25

OPENINGS, PERFORMANCES & SPECIAL EVENTS

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May 7. 7:30pm. Josh Bogin. Folk Series at the Opera House. For information call 538-2505 or 1-888758-7289.

Baca’S

May 8. Main Street Celebration of Spring Festival. In Downtown Historic District. For information call 534-1700.

FUNERAL CHAPELS

Full-Service Funeral Service Firm Cremations Monuments Pre-arranged Plans Available Respecting All Religious Beliefs Wal-Mart

Baca’s Funeral Chapel

De lk Dr.

Highway 180 at Delk Drive Silver City, NM 88061

32nd St. Bypass

505-388-2334

May 16. 4:00pm. Touching the Void (UK).

International Film Society. At the Real West Cinema.

For information call 538-5142.

Silver City

• • • • •

Hwy. 180 East

May 28-30. 9th Annual Silver City Blues Festival. At Gough Park and Various Venues. For information call 538-2505 or 1-888-758-7289.

May 28-31. Mr. & Mrs. Golf Tournament. For information call 1-800-548-9378 or 538-3785.

May 29. Main Street BluesBerry Brunch. For information call 538-2505 or 1-888-758-7289.

June

El Paisano RESTAURANT Serving the best authentic Mexican food in the Southwest

Jun 2-5. Wild Wild West Pro Rodeo. At the Southwest Horsemen’s Park. For information call 538-3785 or 388-2586.

Jun 5. 10:00am. 6th Annual Rodeo Parade and Wild Wild West Days Celebration. At Gough Park. For information call 535-2567.

June 11. 5:00pm. MRAC Gallery Exhibit Reception featuring works by Elsie Dean. For information call 538-2505 or 1-888-758-7289.

Jun 12.6th Annual Pinos Altos Art Fair. For information call 388-4202.

Jun 13. 4:00pm. The Barbarian Invasions (Canada/France). International Film Society. At the Real West Cinema. For information call 538-5142.

Jun 19.Historic Downtown Music Showcase. For information call 534-1700.

Jun 19.“The Public Hanging.” All Day Art Exhibits. For information call 538-2505.

Jun 19. 8:00pm. Millie and Billy Ball. At the Buffalo Dance Hall. For information call 538-2505 or 1-888-758-7289.

July

Peach Empanada, Carnitas Plate, Chile con Queso Steak, Red Chile Vegetarian Chimichanga, Blue and Yellow Corn Tostadas

Celebrating 35 Years in Business!

Dine In or Take Out Beer - Wine - Margaritas 802 E 15th Street (at the corner of Silver) 505-538-5803 26 – SILVER CITY LIFE

Jul 3-5. Firecracker Golf Tournament. At Scott Park Golf Course.

For information call 538-5041.

Jul 4. 11:00am Independence Day Parade & Ice Cream social and Car

OPENINGS, PERFORMANCES & SPECIAL EVENTS Show at the Silver City Museum. 534-1700.

Jul 6. 5:00pm. MRAC Gallery Exhibit Reception featuring works by the MRAC Print Project. For information call 538-2505 or 1888-758-7289.

Jul 16-18.Fiesta de la Olla. For information call 538-2505 or 1-888-758-7289.

Jul 17-18.First Annual Hummingbirds of New Mexico Festival in Lake Roberts. For information e-mail HBNM@gilanet.com.

Jul 25. 4:00pm. Since Otar Left (France).

International Film Society. At the Real West Cinema.

For information call 538-5142.

Jul 25. Solo Romantic Piano. Church of the Good Shepherd Recital Series. 538-3578.

August Aug 6-8.Silver Invitational Golf Tournament.

At Scott Park Golf Course. 538-5041.

LL

egacy ighting ...we’re lights and so much more

Our expanded inventory now includes framed prints, rugs, fountains, antiques, as well as kitchen and bar accessories in addition to all types of lights.

Aug 14-15.25th Annual Gun Show. At the Santa Clara Armory. For information call 388-2360.

10:00 am to 6:00 pm Monday through Friday

Aug 15. 4:00pm TBA. International Film Society. At the Real West Cinema. For information call 538-5142.

1304 North Hudson

Aug 20-22.Copper Country Cruizers’ Car Show. At the WNMU Old James Stadium. For information call 388-3519.

388-1226

Aug 21-22.St. Vincent de Paul Annual Fiesta.

For information call 538-9373.

Aug 22. Signal Peak Challenge: Mountain Bike Regional Qualifier for National Championship. For information call 388-3222.

September Sep 2-4.

Annual Billy Casper Golf Tournament.

For information call 538-4067.

Sep TBA. Annual Gila Thunder Bike Run. For information call 388-2427.

Sep 3. 7:30pm. John Tank. At the Buffalo Dance Hall. For information call 538-2505 or 1-888-758-7289.

Sep 4-6. Annual Gem and Mineral Show. At the Silver City Recreation Center. For information call 538-3216.

Sep 4-5.12th Annual San Vicente Art Fair. At Big Ditch Park. For information call 388-4854.

Sep 24. 7:30pm. Frula Balkan Dance Group.

At WNMU Fine Arts Center Theater. For information call 538-2505 or 1-888-758-7289.

SILVER CITY LIFE – 27

Among the

BESTof

Silver City’s

Medical

Community

S

ilver City of fers diverse and qualified medical and alter native options that suggest a r eview of local possibilities before seeking help elsewher e. Both the regional hospital and individual physicians are well-equipped and ther e are excellent mental and physical therapy facilities.

Alternative medical appr oaches and medicinal options ar e well-developed in the community.

Each issue of Silver City Life magazine will introduce members of the medical profession to its r eaders. The primar y focus of the physician, organization or ser vice will be discussed as well as qualifications. These people and gr oups are members of our community and deser ve your consideration, whether seeking emer gency help or followup treatment.

Dr. Montoya, Silver City OB/GYN

I

n private practice since 1976, D onald Montoya, M.D., moved his OB/GYN clinic to Silver City in 1993. E mploying the latest in both surgical techniques and medical equipment allows Dr. Montoya to provide Silver City residents with the same level of confidence and service found in larger cities.

Board certified in obstetrics and gynecology he handles high-risk obstetrics and utilizes three-dimensional ultra-sound for diagnosis and patient feed-back. H e performs surgery for urinar y incontinence and other gynecologic disor ders.

Minimally invasive methods such as laparoscopy and trans-vaginal tape are utilized whenever conditions permit.

“Over the last several years, I have assembled a professional and caring staff that understands the importance of confidentiality,” states Dr. Montoya. “We are proud of our reputation for seeing our patients through the conclusion of their situation.”

Born locally, Dr. Montoya attended grade school at S t. Mary’s Academy in Silver City. He attended Arizona State University and graduated fr om the University of New Mexico Medical School in 1971. H e concluded his internship at P rovidence Hospital in Portland, Oregon and finished his four-y ear residency at University of Oregon Health Sciences Center . He is a F ellow of the American College of Obstetrics/Gynecology.

Photographed above: Dr. Montoya and staff members Alice MacFarlane and Magdalena Benavidez.

Border Area Mental Health Services, Inc.

B

order Area Mental Health Services, Inc. (BAMHS) has been assisting residents of Grant County since 1973 and no w has offices in Reserve, Deming, and Lordsburg. BAMHS’ mission is to “Help People Help Themselves.” The agency is committed to total client ser vice, a strength-based concept of tr eating the individual ’s entire sphere of concern, including family and relational issues. In addition, BAMHS has a day tr eatment center, New Beginnings. The agency pr ovides expert, caring services by psychiatrists, licensed clinical therapists, pr evention specialists, case managers, psy chiatric rehabilitation specialists, and other caring staff. The agency is a member of v arious community health councils and coalitions that ar e devoted to the w ellness of r esidents of Grant, Luna, Hidalgo, and Catron Counties. left to right: Lori Delgado, Program Supervisor; Kathleen Hunt, CEO; Nancy Gregory, Therapist; Virginia Rodriguez, Case Manager; Jim Helger t, Program Supervisor.

315 S. Hudson, Silver City, NM 88061 505-388-4412

• Acupuncture & Injection Therapy • Chronic Fatigue & Allergies • Digestive & Female Disorders • Arthritis & Back Pain Relief • Lab & Diagnostic Testing • Prescriptions for Natural Medicines Office Hours Tues.-Fri. 9am-5pm

Aeromed Arizona

O

ur job is to sav e lives,” says J ackie Robertson RN, Chief Flight Nurse for Aeromed Arizona in Silver City. “On a daily basis we make a difference for people who are sick or injur ed in southw est New Mexico.”

Aeromed Arizona transports critical patients in their Silver City based King Air from Gila Regional Medical Center as well as hospitals in Deming, Las C ruces and Truth or Consequences to regional medical centers in Albuquerque, El Paso, Tucson, Phoenix or Lubbock. Aeromed Arizona transports patients throughout the continental U.S. and Mexico.

Aeromed Arizona’s King Air is a high performance, pressurized, all w eather turboprop. It is cer tified for flight in all weather conditions including icing. It can fly at altitudes of up to 30,000 feet, typically cruises at 260 miles an hour abo ve all the terrain in our r egion. In addition to the patient, pilot and medical team (consisting of highly trained RN’ s and P aramedics or Respiratory Therapists), the air craft can normally accommodate two family members. Aeromed Arizona recently received a national award from the National Business Aviation Association for six years of safe flying without any incident or accident.

Aeromed Arizona has been based in S ilver City for about 5 years.

Front row, left to right: Tracy Emarine CRT, Wayne Cothran ATP, Gordon Mustin CEP, Greg Anderson ATP. Center, top to bottom: Jackie Robertson, RN, Tom Mathias, CEP and Carol Poffinberger, RN (ATP – Airline Transport Pilot, CEP – Flight Paramedic, CR T – Certified Respiratory Therapist, RN – Flight Register ed Nurse)

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(505) 534-1919 SILVER CITY LIFE – 29

EXCEPTIONALSERVICE TEXT BY BRETT FERNEAU PHOTOGRAPHY BY JOE BURGESS

In southwest New Mexico, it’s not difficult to find people who perform exceptional service. We’re talking about people who regularly “go that extra mile.” It seems they are all ar ound us, quietly going about their normal routines.

What’s difficult is convincing many of these people that they ar e doing anything special.

After all, in their minds they are simply doing as they ’ve always done. They don’t realize that there are places where people don’t have the same level of commitment; and that is something we all need to be reminded of from time to time.

If you know someone y ou would like to see featured on these pages, please contact us at ziapub@yahoo.com.

JEANNE PIERCE The back of the pr operty at San Lorenzo Elementary School in the Mimbres Valley used to be just another patch of high deser t grassland. The local grasses still grow here; but about five years ago, a transformation began. Today the land is host to flo wers, trees, benches, and even a pond complete with goldfish. Local r esidents have planted the trees in memory of loved ones, and the little park is open to the entir e community. The Mimbres Community Nature Garden was built with v olunteer labor and the help of schoolchildren. It began as the vision of one hard-working woman who is handy with tools and gener ous with her time.

Mrs. Jeanne Pierce doesn’t do what she does for money or praise. F ifth grade schoolteachers don ’t get much of either of those things anyway. In fact, though she said she ’d be honored, other people told us that she might be reluctant to have an article written about her. Mrs. Pierce does what she does simply because of who she is: a person who enjo ys making a positiv e difference for her kids and her community . She has been doing it her e at San Lorenzo Elementary School for 21 years.

Longtime co-worker Kelly Hartman points toward a fenced ar ea filled with brightly colored structures. “That used to be nothing but gray,” Mrs. Hartman says. “When we heard there was money to buy actual playground equipment, we were elated. When the equipment arrived, we all jumped in our pickups and hauled it back her e.”

30 – SILVER CITY LIFE

But playground equipment is complicated. I t is shipped disassembled, with hundr eds of par ts and thousands of nuts and bolts. Who puts it all together? I n this case, it was the faculty and staff at San Lorenzo Elementary School; and they did it during their summer vacation. “We all wor ked on it,” r eports Mrs. H artman, “but most of us came and w ent. Jeanne was here every day.”

Mrs. Hartman also points out a gr oup of hexagonal benches under trees, where children can sit in the shade without sitting in the dirt. The sections were pre-cut by a volunteer and assembled

by Mrs. Pierce. Jeanne would have done the whole thing herself; but she was still learning how to use her miter saw at the time.

When interviewed, Mrs. P ierce prefers to draw attention toward community v olunteers. “O ur school functions w ell because our community pitches in so w ell,” she says. J eanne Pierce is also a longtime EMT. Many of the registered EMT’s in the area work elsewhere during the day. Since Mrs. Pierce works here, daytime emergency calls often come to her while she is teaching fifth grade. The school’s principal or other teachers gladly fill in for her during those times.

Mrs. Pierce will be retiring at the end of this school y ear. She will be sorely missed, but we bet we haven’t heard the last of her.

Meantime, the M imbres Community N ature Garden will be blooming again come spring.

REAL PEOPLE WHO MAKE A DIFFERENCE IN OUR QUALITY OF LIFE.

DR. JOHN WENZEL “Before I moved here,” says LeAnne Knudsen, “I was paying vets $100-plus per call to drive out and doctor my donkeys.

“Soon after moving here, my gelding got a roofing nail embedded in the frog of his foot. I needed the help of a vet, but at the time, I had no trailer. So I went to Arenas Valley Animal Clinic without the animal. After I described the problem to Dr. Wenzel, he told me how to dress the wounded foot, handed me a tetanus syringe, and said, ‘You can do this.’”

“He used a resident pony to show me where to place the injections. Many people say you can kill your animal if you don’t know where to place the shots, but with the help of an experienced veterinarian, it’s easy.”

Dr. John Wenzel obviously believes in getting animal owners involved in the health care of their animals. He could do everything himself and charge a lot more money; but his approach suits the selfreliant lifestyle of southwestern New Mexico. Just the same, his parking lot is always full.

“The clinic is closed during the lunch hour,” Ms. Knudsen said.

“The parking lot clears out by noon; and by 1 pm it’s full again. I got there early and waited. After the cowboys had pulled in with their trailers and animals, they politely escorted me to the front of the line. Doc Wenzel showed me what to do and gave me the tools to do it. Then he charged me the minimum and sent me on my way. I like that.”

Dr. Wenzel has been here for 18 years. His longtime office manager, Becky Rea, estimates that 350 large and small animals come through the clinic every month. Dr. Wenzel also treats cattle at numerous ranches in the area. Ms. Rea notes that the national demand for general practice veterinarians in rural areas is outrunning the supply.

“It’s a lifestyle. You have to know a lot in a practice like this,” she says.

There are several veterinary practices in the Silver City area. They take turns being on call for weekend emergencies, so that all can have some time with their families. Neither Dr. Wenzel nor Ms. Rea hesitate to recommend any of the other vets when he is unavailable.

“I’m partial to Doc Wenzel, of course. He’s a very easy man to work for. But around here, they’re all good.”

“It’s true that I work a lot of hours,” Dr. Wenzel says, “but I enjoy my work.

I routinely work from Quemado all the way to the border, so I know a lot of people and get to see a lot of country. For me, this is a nice place to practice. I like the weather, the town, the people, and the critters that I deal with. I like southwestern New Mexico.”

SILVER CITY LIFE – 31

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32 – SILVER CITY LIFE

“Small-press publishing is a cutthr oat business,” says M. H. S almon, better kno wn as ‘Dutch.’ “For every publisher that gets star ted and lasts for tw enty years, there are probably three dozen that last two or three years, then fade away.”

That may be so, but for almost two decades, S ilver City-based High Lonesome Books has consistently published high quality books about southw est New Mexico, its outdoors and its history. The publishing house is owned and run by Dutch Salmon and his wife Cherie.

Mrs. Salmon explains that some eighteen years ago, Dutch had a contract with a well-known publisher to publish his book G ila Descending. In the course of pr eparing the material for press, the publisher rewrote the book so drastically that Mr. Salmon had trouble recognizing his own work. So he published it himself , instead, and sold and distributed it to bookstor es the hard way. After that, he began to publish books of r egional interest written by others as well.

Today, the list of High Lonesome book titles includes the famous Black Range Tales, a firstperson account of the mining boom days in H illsboro and Kingston, New Mexico. The book was about to go out of print when the S almons rescued it. They also publish ne w historical works, such as Dangerous Dan Tucker by Bob Alexander. While not as well known as the Earp brothers and others, early S ilver City lawman D an Tucker was certainly as formidable as the best of them.

New this y ear is Triumph and Tragedy, a histor y of the v ast LC Ranches founded in the 1870’s. I da Foster Campbell of G ila Hotsprings Ranch and her sister , Alice Foster Hill, of Silver City, began the work many years ago as a tribute to their mother and grandparents. Now in their eighties, they have finally finished it. “This book is for anyone interested in the history of the area,” says Dutch, “especially western ranch history. It’s great that these ladies were able to complete the project.” “We knew it was a good title,” adds Cherie. “I t has done very well.”

Book publishing, however, is a calculated financial risk. D o all the titles do w ell? “No,” says Cherie. “We’ve made a few mistakes.”

The Salmons are not in business to churn out millions of books. They selectively publish books about subjects that inter est them, and make them av ailable to people with similar inter ests.

Fortunately, one of their interests is our local history. Much of this history has been obscured by time and might have been lost to us forever, if not for writers and publishers of such books.

“This whole southwest New Mexico area,” says Dutch, “ from Socorro to Lordsburg and Las Cruces to Quemado, is almost an entity unto itself . It’s very rich in both human histor y and natural history. There’s a literary heritage to southwest New Mexico that we’d like to keep alive, and there are also new things going on in the ar ea. Silver City is right in the middle of it all.”

Western

New Mexico

University Museum

Photo by Anthony Howell

Most surprising and awe-inspiring about the WNMU Museum in Silver City, NM is that it houses the largest permanent display of Mimbres pottery and culture in the world.

Open Monday through Friday 9:00-4:30 • Saturday & Sunday 10:00-4:00

Free Admission • Handicap Accessible

505-538-6386 www.wnmu.edu/univ/museum.htm