Welcome to Valencia County: 2012-13 Official Visitors Guide

Welcome to

Valencia Countys premier guide for newcomers & visitorsVALENCIA COUNTY

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Belen, New MexicoReaching for the Stars!Community Landmark505-864-8221 www.belen-nm.govMayor, Rudy Jaramillo Councilors, Wayne Gallegos, Mary Aragon, Jerah Cordova, David Carter

History

City of Beln

Memorial

Events

City Manager, Lucy Baca

Greater Beln Chamber of Commerce & Visitors Center 712 Dalies Ave. Beln, NM 87002 505-864-8091 www.belenchamber.org

Photos by Lenore G. Pea

Welcome to Belen, the Hub City of New Mexico.WORKING TOWARD A STRONGER COMMUNITY.

Home ofGreater Belen Chamber of Commerce

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elcome! WTABLE OF CONTENTSValencia County Is A Beautiful Place To Be ......................... 6 Calender of Events ............................................................. 8 Our History, Our Heritage ................................................ 10 What We Say, What We Mean ......................................... 14 Belen Art League A Passion For Art ............................... 16 Historic Harvey House ..................................................... 18 Tom Art Gallery A Building With Spirit ........................ 20 Through The Flower An Artful Expression ..................... 22 Moving into Valencia County ............................................ 23 Los Lunas Museum of Heritage and Arts ........................... 24 Los Lunas Where The Lunas Live .................................. 26 Belen A Hub Of Historic Happenings ............................. 28 Bosque Farms A Country Condition ............................... 30 Peralta Los Placeres ...................................................... 32 Valencia County Breathtaking Vistas ............................. 34 Isleta Pueblo Melding Past and Present .......................... 36 Quality Education in Los Lunas Schools ........................... 38 Striving For Excellence At Belen Schools .......................... 40 SODA Offers More Than Education .................................. 42 University Of New Mexico-Valencia Campus .................... 44 Making A Day Trip From Valencia County ....................... 46 Economic Development In Valencia County ..................... 48 A Place To Ride And Relax .............................................. 50 Isleta Pueblos St. Augustine Catholic Church ................... 52 Fresh Food At Los Lunas Farmers Market ......................... 54 Belen Farmers Market Offers Local Freshness ................... 56 Tom Hills Sacred Tradition ............................................ 58 Riding Rough Stock In Valencia County ............................ 60 Going To The Greens In Valencia County ......................... 62 Our Culture, Our Community Matanza ............................. 64 Transportation In Valencia County ................................... 66

This is the 17th edition of the

Welcome toVISITORS GUIDEIt is a publication of the Valencia County News-Bulletin. The News-Bulletin is a publication of Number Nine Media, Inc. See the News-Bulletins website at www.news-bulletin.com. Contact us by email at [email protected]. Mailing address: P.O. Box 25, Belen, N.M., 87002. Telephone number: (505) 864-4472 The Valencia County News-Bulletin is published semi-weekly on Wednesdays and Saturdays. Subscription rates are, in Valencia County, two years, $70; one year, $42; six months, $28; Elsewhere: two years, $84; one year, $51; six months, $38 Web-only subscription: one year, $24

On the cover:

Designed by Mario LaraAs flowers are starting to bloom and the trees are filling up with leaves in Valencia County, spring is a beautiful time of year in Valencia County.The horse community in the county is especially grateful for the newly grown grasses.

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Welcome to Valencia County 2012-13

VALENCIA COUNTY

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Valencia County Is A Beautiful Place To Beick a month any month. Life is good here in Valencia County. Its fun to vacation or live here. But we must warn you: If you visit once, youll want to live here forever. Many out-of-staters are surprised to learn that central New Mexico enjoys the same four seasons that other parts of the nation do. And they are particularly beautiful here. Start with spring and it can occur anytime from February to the first of April. The myriad of fruit trees in blossom are the first hints that the new season is beginning. The Rio Grande Valley cuts a green swath through Valencia County, situated between the Manzano Mountains and the dry plain leading toward them in the east and the intriguing uprise of the mesa to the west. The trees blossom quickly here, starting with a haze of green that at first seems almost imaginary. They bud out fast. With daffodils and irises blooming alongside the foundations of many homes and the gentle clear sunshine, spring is a beautiful time to be here. March winds are intense in most parts of the country, but in New Mexico they can be fierce, blowing dust in huge fronts across the state. Some might not think March is the best month to vacation here, but others will be awestruck by the power and majesty of it all. Even if youre from the Windy City. Summer is a wonderful time to be in Valencia County. The alfalfa fields are in full blossom and the cattle and horses are kicking up their heels in the pastures. Redwing blackbirds sing from the meadows. Summer days are long enough to give you time to wander around just looking. The days themselves are hot, but the nights are refreshingly cool, making sleep a pleasant experience by just cracking a window. July and August are the areas rainiest season, but most often that means a shower in the afternoon that clears by evening. Even rain is delightful here because the

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air is so dry, you can actually smell the water, a sweet perfume that tops any flower weve ever come across. Autumn is the queen of seasons in Valencia County. The skies turn a deep royal blue that can be seen nowhere else. Youve heard artists from Georgia OKeeffe on down exclaiming about the quality of light here; chances are they were talking about autumn. The cottonwoods that make up the river bosque forest in Spanish turn a bright yellow that stands out against that special azure sky in a way you just wont believe. Huge Vs of sandhill cranes and other wintering birds wing through the sky, heading south heading here! Its the culmination of the chile harvest, and youll see ristras of red chiles hung from the rafters of the houses. And youll smell the wonderful aroma of green chile being roasted all up and down the valley. Heaven! Temperatures are pleasant, theres little chance of rain and each day is more perfect than the last.

Bring plenty of film and youll still have to buy more. (An insiders tip: Nothing is more beautiful than New Mexico in October. Nothing.) Winter is the time when the snowbirds from Minnesota and Illinois arrive. They find the winters pleasant sometimes you can still go out without a coat on Thanksgiving and there is absolutely no snow shoveling. Yes, it does snow, but thats only a matter of an inch or two and it clears off by afternoon. Because snow occurs only two or three times most years, the entire population is in a holiday mood. The smell of pion fires perfumes the air as people gather around their kiva fireplaces. If youre lucky enough to come at Christmas, youre in for a treat. New Mexico has the most awe-inspiring Yuletide celebrations youre ever likely to witness, with luminarias made from paper bags lining the walls and rooftops. Come any time. Bienvenidos welcome. Nuestra casa es su casa our house is your house.

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eople in Valencia County enjoy having a party and theres plenty to do every year, no matter what your interests.

A Greater Belen Chamber of Commerce Educators Luncheon will be held at 11:30 a.m. on Thursday, Aug. 2, at The second annual San Clemente Day the Tierra del Sol Country Club in Belen. will be held from 1 to 4 p.m. on Saturday, The luncheon celebrates the new hires for May 5, at 430 West N.M. 6, west of Los Belen Consolidated Schools, Calvary Lunas. There will be free barbecue, live Academy and St. Marys Catholic School. music, a presentation on the rangeland res The Bosque Farms Community Fair toration project, childrens horse rides and will be held Friday through Sunday, Aug. various demonstrations. 3-5, at the Bosque Farms Rodeo The Tim Lardner Memorial Scholarship Association Arena. There will be food, Golf Tournament, hosted by the Greater games, a parade, a greased-pole climb Belen Chamber of Commerce, will be held competition, toad racing, indoor exhibits, a on Friday, May 18, at Tierra del Sol rolling-pin throwing contest, a car show Country Club in Rio Communities. and vendors. A National Night Out will be hosted by the Los Lunas and Belen police departments and the Valencia County Sheriffs Office on Tuesday, Aug. 7. The events will The Belen American Cancer Society include free barbecues, childrens events Relay for Life will be held on Friday and and a chance to meet and talk with local Saturday, June 1-2, at the Belen High law enforcement. School baseball fields. The Valencia County Community Expo The 15th annual Summerfest will be will be held Sunday, Aug. 5, through held on Friday and Saturday, June 8-9. Sunday, Aug. 12, in Los Lunas. Activities will include a car show, back Our Lady of Belen Fiestas, celebrating yard barbecue cook-off, carnival, outdoor the 217th annual fiestas, will be held movie and live bands at Heritage Park on Friday through Sunday, Aug. 17-19. There Lambros Loop in Los Lunas. will be a parade down Main Street on The Los Lunas American Cancer Saturday, ending at Our Lady of Belen Society Relay for Life will be held on Friday and Saturday, June 29-30, at the Los Catholic Church, followed by entertainment, a carnival, food and dancing under Lunas High School baseball fields. The Belen All American Independence the tent at the church. The 79th annual Valencia County Fair Day and Music Fest will be held all day on will be held from Saturday, Aug. 18, to Saturday, June 30. The event will feature arts, crafts, vendor booths and fireworks at Sunday, Aug. 26, at the Valencia County Fairgrounds. dusk, at the Heart of Belen Plaza on the The Valencia County Fair Parade will corner of Becker and Dalies Avenue. be held on Saturday, Aug. 25 down Main Street in Belen, ending at the fairgrounds.

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Calendar Of Eventsworks display at dusk.

August

May

Tuesday, Sept. 11. The annual Honoring the Elders of Valencia County luncheon will be held at noon on Friday, Sept. 21, at the Center for Ageless Living. The free luncheon is for county elders over the age of 85, and special recognition is given to the Valencia County Senior Olympians. Call 505-8658813 for reservations. The Rio Abajo Becker Street Festival will be held on Saturday, Sept. 29, in Belen. The event this year will include a new childrens carnival, arm wrestling tournament, a tough-man contest, balloon glow, six live bands, green chile cook-off, car show, poker bike run, blacksmithing contest, food, crafts and community vendors all day long.

June

October The Valencia County Cooperative Extension Office will hold its annual Fall Fest on Saturday, Oct. 20, at the New Mexico State University Science Center in Los Lunas. The event includes a huge pumpkin patch, pumpkin decorating, hay rides, horse rides, milk cow demonstrations, games, activities and much more. The seventh annual Capt. Tamara Long-Archuleta Memorial Open Karate Championships will be held on Saturday, Oct. 20, at Belen High School gymnasium. The city of Belen will be hosting a fall festival on Saturday, Oct. 27, at Anna Becker Park in Belen. There will be fun and activities for children. A Halloween haunted house will be held from 5 to 8 p.m., Wednesday, Oct. 31, at the Daniel Fernandez Youth Center in Los Lunas.

July

November The Belen annual Christmas Festival will be held Saturday, Nov. 24. Arts and crafts, food, Snow Queen contest, light display, the Miracle on Main Street Electric

The annual Fourth of July parade down Main Street to N.M. 314 will be held at 9 a.m., Wednesday, July 4, in Los Lunas. There will be entertainment beginning at 4 p.m. at Daniel Fernandez Park and a fire-

September The annual 9/11 Memorial Ceremony is held at the 9/11 Memorial Park on Church and Main streets in Belen on

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Light Parade and a hot air balloon glow will be held. All the events will take place in the Heart of Belen. The annual Art Along the Railway event will consist of displays in art galleries throughout Valencia County.

Continued from page 8

January The 20th annual Dr. Martin Luther King Candlelight Vigil will be held on Monday, Jan. 21, at Anna Becker Park in Belen. The 13th annual Valencia County Hispano Chamber of Commerce Matanza will be held on Saturday, Jan. 26, at the Valencia County Sheriffs Posse Grounds in Belen. The day-long event includes a matanza competition, tortilla, biscochitos and red chile contest, childrens activities, an art center and live bands throughout the day.

2013

March The 29th annual St. Patricks Day Balloon Rallye will be held on Friday through Sunday, March 15-17, at Eagle Park in Belen. The annual rally features dozens of hot air balloons taking off at dawn to fly the county skies. The annual Good Friday pilgrimage to Tom Hill will be held on Friday, March 29. The traditional walk begins at sunrise and continues throughout the day to the three crosses placed on the sacred hill by the late Edwin Berry. The Los Lunas Police Department will hold its 9th annual Cops for Kids Fun Run/Walk beginning at the Los Lunas High School football stadium. The exact date is yet to be determined.

December The traditional folk play sung in Spanish, La Gran Pastorela de Belen, will be performed at the Harvey House Museum in Belen and throughout the county multiple times during the season. The Los Lunas Christmas Electric Light Parade will be held at 6:30 p.m., Saturday, Dec. 1, down Main Street. The Valencia County Cooperative Extension Office will hold its annual forage workshop for hay growers on Friday, Dec. 7, at the University of New MexicoValencia Campus. The annual Santa in the Park will be held at 6 p.m, Saturday, Dec. 8, at Daniel Fernandez Park in Los Lunas.

February The 37th annual Casper Baca Rough Stock Rodeo Series will be held at the Valencia County Fairgrounds every weekend in February and the first weekend in March in Belen.

April Both the city of Belen and the village of Los Lunas will sponsor Easter egg hunts for area children. The events usually happen at local parks.

Officers Board Members- President

Andy Gomez

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orking together for the good of all!

Martin Callahan- President-Elect - Treasurer

Claire Cieremans Rita Garcia- Secretary

Patty Roberts Dave Carlberg Ralph L. Mims Carey Salaz Tim Marlin Michael Ogas Fred Carabajal

751 Juan Perea Rd. (Transportation Center 2nd Floor) Los Lunas, NM 505-352-3596 www.loslunasnm.gov/chamber

Our History, Our Heritagehe history of Valencia County spans centuries, several wars, epidemics and the lives of our ancestors and family memories. Many of the events that riddled our past have made Valencia County what it is today. From the days of colonization, to the era of the Indian revolts, up to the land grants of various communities in the area, New Mexico and Valencia County have seen its share of wars, settlements and illness. As the state and county prospered with the coming of the railroad, municipalities grew not only financially but by population. Local historian and UNM-VC professor Richard Melzer provided much of the information for this history timeline.

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16th Century1540-1542: Francisco Vasquez de Coronado led the first exploration into the region. He and his troops only stayed for two years. 1598: Conqueror Don Juan de Oate, colonized and established the Kingdom of New Mexico. This is the period when recorded history starts.

17th Century1598-1680: First Colonial Period. During this time the missions were first established in the Rio Abajo, including Isleta in 1929. 1680: The Pueblos revolted to expel the Spanish from New Mexico. There were about 2,500 Spaniards in the colony and about 400 were killed by the Pueblo Indian rebels, which included some from Isleta. 1692: Don Diego de Vargas came to New Mexico on a reconnaissance expedition seeking to reconquer the area from the Pueblo Indians.

A History LessonValencia County is part of the Rio Abajo, an area of the Middle Rio Grande Valley of New Mexico that stretches from the Espaola Valley in the North to Sabinal in the South. The Spaniards settled this area as early as 1598 after the first colony was founded by Gov. Juan de Oate in the Indian village of Ohke on the upper East Bank of the Rio Grande. 1716: One of the first private land grants given was the San Clemente (in Los Lentes). Los Lentes is older than the village of Los Lunas as a community settlement.

18th Century1710: The mission at Isleta was rebuilt and renamed.

Shortly after that the Luna family made claim to the grant and took possession of it. 1739: The town of Tom was settled when grants were given to Juan Varela and other families by Gov. Gaspar Dominguez de Mendoza. Nicolas Duran y Chavez, said to be the founder of Los Chavez, was given a grant from Mendoza for land in the area. 1740: The town of Belen was settled when the governor granted the area to Capt. Diego de Torres and 32 other families. The Belen settlers came mostly from the Albuquerque area. Belen was referred to by numerous names including Belem, Bethel and Nuestra Senora de Belen.

Continued on page 12

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Late 1700s to early 1800s: Smallpox epidemics in the county cursed thousands of people. It was said that millions of Indians nationwide were wiped out by the epidemic, more than in battles. Half of the Indian population was gone by the end of the 19th century because of small pox.

19th Century1821: New Mexico becomes part of Mexico after Mexican residents rebelled against the mother country, Spain. 1823: The Casa Colorada Grant was given to Jose Maria Perea and others by Gov. Bartolome Baca. 1846: US/Mexican War; United States troops invaded Mexico and took it over. Troops were sent into New Mexico, including Valencia County. New Mexico then became a territory of the United States. 1852: The county of Valencia was established. Valencia County stretched from the New Mexico-Texas border to the New Mexico-Arizona border. 1862: Civil War and Confederate invasion into New Mexico. Troops came into Valencia County and sought loans and supplies from local merchants. Troops went through the county going north and were defeated in a major battle at Glorieta Pass. On their way back, the troops were once again defeated at the last battle of the civil war in New Mexico, in Peralta. 1876: The county seat was moved from Tom to Los Lunas. 1880: The railroad was built and ran tracks north and south through New Mexico, including through Los Lunas and Belen. The railroad needed land to lay tracks and when crews got to Los Lunas they were blocked by a hacienda owned by the Luna family. The railroad made a deal with the family that if they sold their land, the railroad would build the family a new home. The new home is now known as the Luna Mansion.

1898: Most famous train robbery in Belen done by Bronco Bill Walters and his sidekick, Kid Johnson. The two are said to have tied their horses miles down from the train depot in Belen and walked north to catch the train. Walters and Johnson forced the conductor to stop the train where they had left their horses and blew up the safe where the money was kept.

20th Century1903: First bank opened in Belen, and soon after the first bank robbery was committed. 1907: The railroad built the Belen cutoff, linking Amarillo and Belen. 1912: New Mexico became the 48th state in the union. 1918: Belen was incorporated as a village. Belens first mayor was Bernard Jacobson. 1918: Towards the end of the year, the worst flu epidemic in the states history hit New Mexico. During the two months of the epidemic thousands of people died. Its said people would contract the flu in the morning and by that same night they would be dead. Almost every family in the county was affected by the epidemic, and the bells in the churches were constantly ringing. 1928: The village of Los Lunas was incorporated with Antonio Archuleta serving as its first mayor. Late 20s-1938: Route 66 passed through Los Lunas. 1929: The Los Lunas Hospital and Training School was constructed. The center provided care for mentally and physically handicapped residents on 126 acres of land. 1935: The U.S. government offered 42 tracts of land in Bosque Farms in a relocation settlement lottery. The plots ranged from 40 to 80 acres each. A lot of the houses are still in existence. 1941-45: WWII Post war period: There was tremendous growth in the population, and with the war, people were leaving to California

seeking jobs in the defense area. A lot of people were moving to San Diego and Barstow, Calif. 1960s: Rio Communities was established and remains unincorporated. The population in the late 60s equaled or exceeded Bosque Farms and Los Lunas. 1974: Bosque Farms was incorporated and its first mayor was Robert Fisher. 1978: The University of New Mexico began serving Valencia County residents with the new Eastern Valencia County Satellite Center. 1981: Valencia County was almost split in half in between the east and west when a new county, Cibola, was created by the Legislature. The population of Valencia County remained at 32,000. 1986: The college satellite center in Valencia County was accepted as a formal branch of UNM. 1986: A new UNM-VC campus in Tom was built in response to need.

21st Century2007: Voters in Peralta elected to incorporate the newest municipality in Valencia County by a 682 to 250 vote. A few months after the incorporation was passed, Edward Archuleta was elected the first mayor of Peralta. Michael Leon Otero, Joseph K. Romero, Nancy (Pug Burge) Kinchen and Christian Garcia were elected to the council while Louis A. Burkhard was elected Peraltas first municipal judge. 2008: Construction of a new Valencia County Courthouse, located at Morris Road and N.M. 314, was completed. The new state-of-the-art 55,000-square-foot, three-story building cost taxpayers a total of $12 million. 2009: Los Lunas Mayor Louis Huning retired after serving 27 years in office. Huning, who was first elected mayor in 1982, was not the first in his family to serve in public office. His grandfather, Fred B. Huning Sr., served as mayor for 16 years from 1936 to 1952 the longest until his grandson.

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WELCOME TO VALENCIA COUNTY!

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What We Say, What We Meanere are some basic Spanish terms that might come in handy when youre talking to folks in Valencia County: Acequias: Irrigation ditches. Biscochitos: A traditional sugar cookie baked with anise, most often served at Christmas time. If you dont think New Mexicans take food seriously, then remember that the State Legislature debated the words spelling for hours when making it the official state cookie. Bosque: Forest. Its most often used to describe the cottonwood stand along the Rio Grande. (Pronounced: bos-kay.) Bueno: Good. Cerro: Hill. We have Cerro Tom, Tom Hill, Cerro de Los Lunas, and the community called El Cerro. Cerveza: Beer. Chicharones: Southerners called them chitlins. Theyre cooked fresh at a matanza. Chile: This is the correct Spanish spelling of the states official fruit. Chili comes from Texas or out of a can con carne. El Camino Real: The royal road that stretched from deep inside Mexico all the way to Santa Fe through the heart of Valencia County. It was the main route along which trade was moved in colonial days. El Rio Abajo: The lower river, the area surrounding the Rio Grande down to the Las Cruces area. Feliz Navidad: Merry Christmas! Fiesta: A party; more commonly used to designate the days-long celebrations held by Catholic churches in New Mexico to mark their saint days. Frijoles: Pinto beans, the states official vegetable. La Llarona: The Weeping Woman. A classic Southwestern and Mexican ghost story about a woman who murdered her ning irrigation water. Luminarias: A Christmas decoration children. Shes also called the Ditch Ladron: A mountain to the southwest. created by placing a candle in sand at the Witch and is used to frighten children and The word means thief and it reportedly make them stay away from the fast-runwas a hiding place for bandits. Continued on page 15

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bottom of a small paper bag. Theyre set along sidewalks and the roofs of houses. In northern New Mexico, theyre called farolitos; luminarias there are small bonfires. Its all very confusing. Just go with the flow and enjoy. Manzanos: The mountains at the eastern edge of the county, named for the apples whose rosy color they glow with at some times of the day. Matanza: A barbecue at which a pig or goat is butchered and prepared outside. Very good eating. Mesa: The flat-topped hills seen throughout the Southwest. A perfect example can be seen at the western edge of Belen. Mijito or mijita: The shortened version of Mi hijito (little son) or Mi hijita (little daughter); usually used fondly by a parent when addressing or talking about their child. No ms: No more! Pion: Pine nut; often sold by the pound along roads by vendors who picked the new crop themselves. Plural is piones. Sopaipillas: A sort of puffy fried bread served with meals, often eaten with honey. Stuffed sopaipillas are topped with lots of goodies, such as beans, meat, lettuce, tomatoes and cheese and served with chile sauce. Vamans: Lets go! Viejitos: Little old ladies and gentlemen. The old folks, thought of endearingly.

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Belen Art League A Passion For ArtBecker Avenue, it continues to be Belens little secret. This hidden gem contains some of the countys finest artistic work created by local artists and that stand out from within the Heart of Belen with its turquoise window trimming and front door. The Belen Art League Gallery and Gifts, a non-profit organization, is where local artists come together from an artistically rich area to share, to learn and to teach, said the organizations president Cher Holz. The leagues goal is to educate and support future artists in the community by promoting the arts in the Hub City. This organization opened its doors in 1956 and grew to contain about 130 members. League artists first met in each others homes and at the Belen Public Library before receiving their permanent home at 509 E. Becker Avenue. City officials donated the former senior center to the league in 2003. The league expanded to the former RSVP offices next door in 2010. The gallery contains five rooms, which display and sell members art work year round, one art gallery classroom and a garden in the buildings far end. Artists run the full gamet, Holz said, which includes photographers, acrylic painters, oil painters, sculptures, jewelry makers, clay artists, fiber artists and woodcarvers. Were extensive and thats what surprises me how large we are, and were fortunate that there are all skill levels, Holz said. Through classes, workshops and monthly Open Art Night, artists can learn from each others work, pick up new techniques, ask for advice and receive encouragement. The league also provides exposure to other art forms that members may have never thought about branching into, Holz said. A lot of times, we get into what we

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lthough it stands along historic

THE BELEN ART LEAGUE Gallery and Gifts is a place where local artists can expand theircreativity, and where visitors can see some of the best art in the county.

do and we wont try other things. Try it. You dont know where its gong to take you, she said. It may just be the next biggest passion of your life. Member Tom Curley said it made him want to paint more. You hear people say, I cant draw a straight line, and you tell them, Come down here an try. If you dont try it, you wont know, and youll probably find out that youre better than you think, Curley said. The gallery houses an extensive art

library of more than 500 art books, ranging from how tos to fine art, available for members to borrow. Art work is exhibited throughout two annual art shows, includng the Fall Art Show and Spring Art Show, where contestants receive ribbons. Judges for the shows, held at the historic Harvey House Museum, are experts in their own craft, including landscape artist Leo Nuefeld, University of New Mexico-Valencia


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Historic Harvey House Museumll Abooooooaaaaard! That might have been the call that echoed for years toward the Harvey House, a railroad hotel and restaurant in Belen that was part of a nationwide chain. Fred Harvey, owner and builder of the restaurants, entered a partnership with the railroads in 1878 to construct dining houses and lunch stands along railways throughout the western U.S. In 1910, the Harvey House in Belen was built, one of the last of the houses to be constructed. Fred Harvey had already passed away, and the business was being run by a second generation of Harveys. The Belen house stayed in operation until 1939. It was briefly re-opened to serve traveling soldiers during World War II, and the house served railroad employees as a reading room and boarding house for railroad employees through 1972. Its still located along a working railyard, one of the busiest in the BNSF line, and the sounds of freight trains chugging past add to the ambience. A large gift shop with plenty of railroad memorabilia, historical books, cookbooks and other items is part of the fun. The famous Harvey Girls, known for impeccable manners and hotel and restaurant service, lived upstairs at the Belen stop and served as waitresses in the restaurant on the first floor. The 1946 Judy Garland film, The Harvey Girls, is based on a woman running into a group of such girls on a train trip, and the film is set in New Mexico. The artifacts now in the building are from both the Harvey House and railroadboarding eras, but not all of those are directly tied to either. In fact, the museum has far more historical items in stock than can be displayed due to limited funding and personnel resources. The Harvey House Museum now has original dishes from the original Fred Harvey dining cars.

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THE HARVEY HOUSE MUSEUM is one of Valencia Countys most treasured attraction. Thehistoric building was erected in 1910, one of the last of its kind to be built.

It is the hope of docents and others involved that young people will take an interest in continuing the Harvey House Museum projects. The museum, operated by the Valencia County Historical Society, expanded its hours last summer to include two hours on Sundays. The Belen Model Railroad Club, which shares the building, can currently only be accessed through a separate entrance, but

the hope is to have the building one day become one continuous museum. The railroad club currently has two rooms filled with running model trains and accompanying landscape, and a third large room in which a scale model of the Belen rail yards is currently up and running. The club continues to expand the tracks and trains will travel through a wall and


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VALENCIA COUNTY

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Campus art director Michael Ceshchiat and Los Lunas photographer B.G. Burr. On top of the annual art shows, the league holds annual miniature and photography shows in the gallery, and a photo contest for community members of the best New Mexican photograph. Besides aiding in league members abilities, the non-profit organization provides community service. Each summer, the league holds a two-week long Summer Kids Art Camp, where students from the ages of 7 to 12 are taught various art forms. The league also offers a $500 scholarship for one Belen High School senior who is concentrating on a visual art discipline. Funds for the scholarship are raised through an annual Valentines Tea, where the gallery is transformed into a tea house with homemade pastries and participants dress up. And the league isnt done there. Holz said they are in the process of spreading their wings, and adding new events and venues for their artists to showcase their one-of-a-kind work. The gallery is open from noon to 4 p.m., Wednesday through Sunday. For information about the Belen Art League Gallery, call 861-0217.



into another room that will eventually be handicap accessible. Today, the main museum mostly uses only the front half of the first floor, which used to be the main dining room. The front area, known in the Harvey days as the lunchroom, now serves as a rotating exhibit area used by the historical society for a different show each month. The Harvey House Museum is located at 104 N. First St. in downtown Belen, less than two blocks south of Reinken Avenue, and a short walk from the New Mexico Rail Runner Express commuter station. The city of Belen owns the building and the land, and allows the historical society and the model railroad club to operate it. The 2012 calendar features the Belen Model Railroad Club Spring Show in April and the Belen Art League Annual Spring Show in May. In the month of June, the museum will be celebrating New Mexicos Centennial by displaying a special exhibit from the Los Lunas Heritage Museum. In October, the railroad club will host its fall show, and in December, the Harvey House will become home to the La Gran Pastorela and the Festival of Trees. Theres no charge to tour either side, but donations are appreciated. The museum and model railroad exhibit are both open from 12:30 p.m. to 3:30 p.m. from Tuesday to Saturday, and from 1 p.m. to 3 p.m. on Sunday. The museum can be reached at 505861-0581.

Tom Art Gallery A Building With Spiritestled in the quiet community of Tom, in the heart of Valencia County, is a treasure that collectors and art aficionados alike target in their visit. According to Jan Pacifico, one of the original partners, Tom Art Gallery has a specific draw for people who are looking for a special item or just want to experience an eclectic collection of varied mediums and styles of artist expression. Operating now as a co-operative effort of some 50 artists, the gallery features art of many mediums, including paintings, pottery, jewelry and just about every kind of hand-crafted items imaginable. Member artists are involved by working the store or giving financial support. Consignments are a small part of the art displayed at the gallery. The business model allows for prices to be maintained at a low level, sometimes half what a Santa Fe or New York gallery might charge. It leaves room for all kinds of people to participate. Those who cant afford a lot can work, and those who want to participate financially can, said Pacifico of the business model. Pacifico noted that she used to have a gallery in New York and the quality of work here is as good as it was there. It is the same for Santa Fe, she said. A lot of us in the gallery have shown our work in Santa Fe, Taos or Albuquerque and even a lot of different places other than New Mexico. The quality that we have here is really equivalent to Santa Fe. One of the artist partners, Layne Lawne, serves as the gallerys curator. She said that the small shop offers a wide variety of art that holds a Southwestern and Native American charm. I dont think there is just one thing that is unique here, Lawne said. I think a lot of the pieces are unique. It is just the different artists way of showing our culture. People come back for the same type of

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TOM ART GALLERY is an artist co-op with several shows throughout the year. The building has been a house, a grocery store, a bar and a restaurant

thing over and over. The location is as unique as the art found inside. The building at the corner of N.M. 47 and Patricio Road had been in the Aragon family for generations. During its life it had been a grocery story with the familys living quarters in the back, the Tom Beer Hall and finally the restaurant. Part of the charm is just where the gallery is, Lawne said. We are right near a historic church in the middle of a small agricultural community. It is right along historic Tom Hill.

People come out here and they just cant believe that there is this little gallery that has so much in it. Tom Art Gallery holds demonstration days from time to time, which allow for visitors to participate in making their own creations. People can take a piece and participate in the firing, Pacifico said. We let people work on the wheel and try it. People can do all kinds of things, like polish the pottery.


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Everyone can do something and then get to take it home, said Pacifico. An example of one of the demo days is the annual Soup-er Bowl Sunday. Bowls of different textures are there for the client to design and make. They then get to go through the soup line, and at the end of the lunch, they take their creation home with them. Part of the gallerys appeal is that the artists actually operate and work at the gallery. Pacifico said people might come in and find Lawne sitting, making jewelry, while she is in the back doing pottery. Other artists might be weaving or spinning. There is always something going on, Pacifico said. That is a fun thing to see. With the unique combination of reasonable prices, artists on scene and the historic location, Tom Art Gallery makes an enjoyable visit for residents and out-of-town guests alike. Even in the worst part of this economic downturn, we continue to have our best years, she said. Part of the success is that we count our success for the artists not particularly for the business. What we try to do is promote the artists, so that at the end of the year we are pretty much a break-even business. We are out of the way, so we try and keep our prices down, so that local people can buy the local art, Lawne said. It really does pay off.


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Through The Flower An Artful Expressionith the New Mexico Rail Runner Express in full operation, opportunities for travelers and commuters are a little easier and more interesting if they choose to experience a train ride from Santa Fe to Belen. One of the many interesting experiences on this route is the Womens Cultural Corridor, a concept created by Through the Flower, located in Belen, that depicts the works of New Mexico artists, such as Judy Chicago, Georgia OKeeffe, Maria Martinez and Agnes Martin. Through the Flower is a non-profit art and educational organization founded in 1978 that celebrates the achievements of women through art. It offers visitors a chance to view art, publications, films, DVDs and videos about Judy Chicago, as well as the many volunteers who helped make her visions a reality, by appointment only. Once based out of the home of Chicago and her husband, photographer Donald Woodman, in the old Belen Hotel, Through the Flowers building is one of the landmarks along the Womens Cultural Corridor. Chicagos goal of helping counter the erasure of womens achievements throughout history is being realized, and she is a respected artist whose work defines womens rights to freedom of expression. One of Chicagos most well known pieces is The Dinner Party, which tells the story of 1,038 women artists and scholars who, until recently, were not included in the history books. The Dinner Party was permanently housed at the Brooklyn Museum in New York last year, as part of the Elizabeth Sackler Center for Feminist Art. Now that The Dinner Party is on permanent display, Through the Flower launched The Dinner Party Curriculum Project, allowing students the opportunity to study about the untold history of womens contributions. Through the Flower lead the develop-

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THROUGH THE FLOWER, a non-profit art and educational organization foundation, wasfounded by artist Judy Chicago and her husband, photographer Donald Woodman.

ment of the project and the art curriculum, based on The Dinner Party, until they partnered with Penn State and Kutztown University to manage the free, online curriculum for art teachers. After the projects launch, they were inundated with so many requests for the curriculum that the organizations one employee couldnt keep up with the demand, said Woodman, Through the Flowers executive director. With this success, the organization decided to focus its attention on where they have the most impact and turned the gallery into an art educational resource center. Even though we were getting train loads of people for exhibitions from Santa Fe, the reach we have with the Internet material is so much more significant,

Woodman said. By distributing materials online, invaluable educational resources can reach a larger audience, said Ginger Mercer, Through the Flowers administrative director, adding the organization recently received an order from Jerusalem. The Internet has made (the material) have a much better impact, so we can sit here in Belen and impact the world, Woodman said. The research library for Chicagos internationally known art, The Dinner Party, was donated to the University of New Mexico-Valencia Campus library, which the organization continues to contribute to. This was a resource we had that giving


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Moving into Valencia CountyElectricity: Public Service Co. of New Mexico (PNM); customer service: 888-342-5766; no Valencia County office locations; nearest office: 414 Silver Ave. SW, Albuquerque; office hours: 7:30 a.m. to 6 p.m., Monday-Friday. Natural gas: New Mexico Gas Co.; customer service: 888-6642726; 7:30 a.m. to 6 p.m. Monday-Friday, or customerservice@ nmgco.com; emergencies: 697-3335; Los Lunas office, 2431 Main St. SE in Los Lunas; hours 8:30 a.m. to 4 p.m., Monday-Thursday, 8:30 a.m. to 5:30 p.m., Fridays. Telephone service: CenturyLink; new service: 800-475-7526; billing and general customer service: 800-491-0118; tech support/24hour repair: 877-348-9007. Water: Belen City Hall, 100 S. Main, 864-8221; Los Lunas Village Hall, 660 Main St. SW, 839-3841; Bosque Farms Village Hall, 1455 W. Bosque Loop, 869-2357; Rio Communities, Meadow Lake, Pasitos del Cielo, Las Maravillas, Cypress Gardens: New Mexico Water Service, 401 Horner, Rio Communities, 864-2218. Cable TV: Comcast: 330 Main St. NW, Los Lunas, 344-0690. (All phone numbers are area code 505, unless otherwise noted)

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it to a university institution would make it more widely available, Woodman said. Through the Flower offers other programs that give an inside look into the world of art. Chicagos work has also been included in the H.W. Jansons History of Art textbook, which is one of the most well-known art history books in the United States. Imelda Sisneros, of La Mirada Enterprises LLC, wrote that Chicagos work has created such an impact in the world of feminist art. She is an icon, and we are truly missing the boat if we dont show proper support and pride for having Ms. Chicago in our local community, Sisneros wrote. In addition to her art pieces, Chicago is also an author whose books have been published in domestic and foreign editions, bringing her art and her philosophy to thousands of people worldwide. She is an educator as well and spends time at universities, working with students, faculty and local artists to create projects. Chicago released two books: a biography Becoming Judy Chicago by Gail Levin, and an updated book, The Dinner Party. The Womens Cultural Corridor includes sites that are important to the development of womens art starting at the Millicent Rogers Museum in Taos, in Abiquiu, Santa Fe, Albuquerque, Tom and Through the Flower in Belen. For information on Judy Chicago and Through the Flower, visit www.throughtheflower.org.

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Los Lunas Museum of Heritage and Artst may be small in size, but what it lacks in square feet it greatly makes up for with an abundance of knowledge in local art, heritage and culture. The Los Lunas Museum of Heritage and Arts, at 251 Main St. in Los Lunas, is a unique blend of art, history, local heritage, culture and research. It is unlike any other museum in Valencia County in its showcase and demonstration of work and exhibits. The staff is striving to make the museum a repository and archive of the heritage of Valencia County in conjunction with the artistic component. The museum, which opened in March 2008, takes a very special interest in preserving the rich history of New Mexico and Valencia County with a genealogy center and access to records and recordings of oral histories from community members. Some museums display only a permanent collection. The Los LunasMuseum of Heritage and Arts rotates exhibits a few times a year. Since its opening, the museum has had several exhibits, including the Luna-Otero Dynasty and Civil War in New Mexico, the work of Maria Rodriguez Pope, Men and Women of Valor, Saints and Sacred Places and Through the Eyes of a Cowboy. All of the exhibitions have a link to what is going on in Valencia County and the wider world. The tag line habia una vez, meaning once upon a time in Spanish, encompasses what the museum is all about. The museum is like an interactive, growing, living organism that has a different story to tell with each new exhibition. For young children, the museum has a special story telling time program at 10:30 a.m. every Wednesday. A story is read by staff or visiting artists, and afterward the children participate in a craft hour designed around the storys theme, said Museum Specialist Andrea Chavez.

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THE LOS LUNAS MUSEUM of Heritage and Arts is a venue where our history is showcasedas well as where artists exhibit their work.

Story telling time for pre-school children at the museum is much more than just reading a book to them, said Cynthia Shetter, director of the Los Lunas Library. It helps build a foundation for their education. This program draws them in to photography, painting, and history, and exposes them to some cultural aspects of the community at an early age. It builds their listening and reading skills, and their social skills communicating with other children. The Los Lunas Museum of Heritage and Arts is open from noon to 5 p.m., TuesdayFriday; and from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Saturday. For information, call 352-7720.

Upcoming exhibits include: Mary Fogarty: The Power of Art in Faces, Places and Inner Spaces, April 7-28. Craig Varjabedian: My Camera in New Mexico: Photographs, May 12-July 26. Armando D. de Aguero: Drawing with Light-Photography, August-October. George Sichler: Good Morning New Mexico, paintings from different vantage points of all 33 counties in New Mexico, December 7-31. A November show has not been schedule as of this printing.

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Frances restaurantMexican & aMerican Food

Dining and Entertainment GuideRitas New Mexican Restaurant528 Becker Ave. Belen, New Mexico 87002

908 S. Main Street Belen, New Mexico Phone: 864-0425 Open 7 days a week

864-0217

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Tuesday-Saturday 6am-6pm Sunday & Monday 6am-2pm(Serving Menudo all day)

Mon-Fri: 7am-2pm Sat: 7am-1pm Sun: 8am-1pmorlando & rita gonzalesowners

Mannys Fine Pastries Bakery515 Main St. SE Los Lunas 865-7082 Betty Jean Villa

The Best in New Mexican FoodFamily Owned and Operated Torres Family

Established 1949

105 North 1st Street Belen, New Mexico

Authentic New Mexican Cuisine

Mon-Thurs: 11-8

Wedding Cakes Pies Pastries Doughnuts Cookies & Empanadas

Beer and wine served.

505-864-4811

Fri & Sat: 11-8:30

144 Main Route 66 Los Lunas, New Mexico

Pete's, not the best because it's the oldest; it's the oldest because it's the best!

505-865-5511 www.teofilos.com

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Landmark Steakhouse110 Main St. Historic Route 66 Los Lunas 505-865-7333 lunamansion.com

3463 Main Street NW Los Lunas, NM 87031 Voted Best Breakfast in AlbuquerqueOpen 6:30am -2:00pm 7 days a week Visit us at www.wecksinc.com Phone: 505-865-5770

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Breakfast Lunch Dinner Blue Plate Daily Specials Fish Fridays Private Dining Room Available

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Los Lunas Where The Lunas LiveLos LunasGovernment: Mayor Robert Vialpando; Councilors Charles Griego, Richard Lovato, Amanda M. Perea and Gerard Saiz Clerk/Administrator: Peter Fernandez Municipal Judge: Jeff Aragon Police Chief: Roy Melnick Fire Chief: Lito Chavez os Lunas is the fastest growing city in the state, yet it retains its rural character and offers residents a slower pace. With a population of 14,835 residents, the village of Los Lunas is a unique combination of city and solitude. It is buffered from Albuquerques urban sprawl on the north by the Isleta Indian Reservation, but has plenty of room to grow on the west side of Interstate 25. To the south of the village lay small, bucolic towns. Residents can venture about 20 minutes north to New Mexicos largest city to enjoy the many shops, restaurants and businesses Albuquerque offers, or continue driving for another hour to Santa Fe, the state capital and a city rich in culture and art. Many residents take advantage of commuting by train to work or to play in the cities to the north, on the Rail Runner Express located on N.M. 314 and Courthouse Road. What began as a small rural farming and ranching community has blossomed into an area that has taken in rapid growth in population and business without losing its small-town charm or friendly neighborhood values. The people are great, said Peter Fernandez, village administrator and lifelong resident of Los Lunas. It is a well managed community, where people take a very special interest in making the community better. Every action the governmental entity takes is with the idea of bettering the community as a whole.

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THE VILLAGE OF LOS LUNAS was named one of the fastest growing cities in the nation.The village was named after the prominent Luna family.

Los Lunas, which translates to where the Lunas live, was named after the prominent and politically influential Luna family. The first Luna to set foot in Valencia County was Domingo de Luna, from Spain, in 1692. The beautiful and historical Luna Mansion, built in 1880, still stands today and is listed on the New Mexico Historical register. The Luna Mansion is architecturally unique because it is designed in a southern colonial style typically unseen in New Mexico. However, its basic construction material is adobe, a traditional material used for making houses in the state. People always come up and ask me, With all the growth that the village has experienced, when will it become a city? My philosophy has always been, we like the name of village because it has a conno-

tation of a caring community and a community as a whole, Fernandez said. The village of Los Lunas, the county seat of Valencia County, lies primarily on either side of the Rio Grande. The land was originally part of the San Clemente Grant, granted to Don Felix Candelaria in 1716. Historically, this area had been a farming community, but since the 1960s, the village has become a growing business center. Los Lunas has annexed land on the east side of the Rio Grande, but most of the growth has been in the western direction. Interstate 25 passes along the west side of the village and provides excellent north and south access to the state. The Los Lunas area began growing rapidly in the 1980s with the expansion of the


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Continued from page 26Albuquerque metropolitan area. The 1990 Census found that about half of the Los Lunas labor force worked in the Albuquerque area. Company of New Mexico Natural Gas: New Mexico Gas Company Telephone: CenturyLink Transportation Air: A general aviation airport, Mid Valley Airpark Intercity bus: Rio Metro, 505352-3595 Train, Freight: Burlington Northern Santa Fe, N.M. Rail Runner Express Services Police: Village of Los Lunas Fire: Village of Los Lunas Parks: The village of Los Lunas maintains several parks, one with a baseball field and picnic facilities, one with soccer fields and skate park.

DemographicsPopulation: 14,835 (estimated 2010 U.S. Census) Population trends, 1960 to 2000, (U.S. Bureau of Census) 1960: 1,186 1970: 773 1980: 5,525 1990: 6,013 2000: 10,034 2010: 14,385 Utilities Water: Village of Los Lunas Source of water: Ground water Sewer: Village of Los Lunas Solid Waste: Village of Los Lunas Electric: Public Service

The Best in New Mexican FoodFamily Owned and Operated Torres Family

Established 1949

105 North 1st Street Belen, New Mexico

Mon-Thurs: 11-8

Beer and wine served.

505-864-4811

Fri & Sat: 11-8:30

Pete's, not the best because it's the oldest; it's the oldest because it's the best!

Authentic New Mexican Cuisine

At the Historic Wittwer House Torres Family Owned and Operated Since 1986Beer & Wine Served Take Out or Dine In Pearl Room available for large parties Registered national and state historic landmark.Tuesday-Thursday 11am-8:30pm Friday-Saturday 11am-9pm Saturday Breakfast 11am-1pm Sunday 9am-7pm Sunday Breakfast 9am-1pm

144 Main Route 66 Los Lunas, NM www.teofilos.com 505-865-5511

Belen A Hub Of Historic HappeningsBelenGovernment: Mayor Rudy Jaramillo, Councilors Mary Aragon, David J. Carter, Jerah Cordova and Wayne Gallegos City Manger: Mary Lucy Baca Municipal Judge: Kathy Savilla Police Chief: Dan Robb Fire Chief: Manny Garcia estled on the western bank of the Rio Grande, the city of Belen is rich in history and culture, and although progressing, the city strives to maintain its charm and celebrate the traditions on which it was established. Founded in 1740 by Don Diego Torres and Antonio Salazar, the quiet community was named using the Spanish word for Bethlehem, and today still holds tight to traditions from hundreds of years ago. The small community of about 40 families first worked the land, but by the 19th century, the ever-growing community expanded into sheepherding. First known as Nuesta Seora de Belen (Our Lady of Bethlehem), Belen continues to celebrate its bond to the Christ childs birthplace and the deeply religious traditions that the city was based on. As part of its devotion, the city annually presents Los Pastores the shepherds a Christmas pageant in folk song whose origins are lost to the ages. Belen was incorporated in 1918 and passed the first village ordinance on July 1, 1919. That was the foundation for implementing fire and police protection as well as official government positions and taxes. Belen officially became a town in 1940 and a city in 1966. Located near the center of the state, Belen was nicknamed the Hub City, partly because it was the hub of the old Santa Fe Railway system that arrived in 1880. Today, about 160 trains a day pass through the city since the addition of a double track

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THE CITY OF BELEN was originally named Nuestra Seora de Belen, Our Lady of Bethlehem. It was nicknamed the Hub City because it was the hub of the old Santa Fe Railway.

through Abo Canyon that was part of a BNSF track expansion of a five-mile stretch through the area. With the increase in activity on the railroad, a Harvey House was opened in 1910, and for 29 years, it was bustling with business from railroaders. Although it was reopened for a short time during World War II, today the Harvey House Museum stands as it was, filled with Harvey Girl and railroad memorabilia that tells the story of days gone by. Becker Avenue, named after the legend-

ary John Becker, who arrived in Belen during the second half of the 19th century, runs through the Heart of Belen, and its renovation is near completion. The avenue has a quiet charm to it where pedestrians can stroll. Diagonal parking, that signature of the old days, makes it easy to get in and out. The old town feel that Belen exuberates has caught the attention of movie makers and has been captured in a number of mov-


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ies and television series, including The Last Stand, a modern-day Western, starring former California Gov. Arnold Schwarzenegger. Other films and television series filmed in the Hub City include In Plain Sight, As Cool As I Am, Swing Vote, Living Hell, West Texas Childrens Story and Gas-s-s-s. A large arch, with an iron nativity scene in front of it, is the gateway to this quaint part of town. Summer and fall festivals are held beneath the pavilion, with the streets closed off for the community to celebrate, dance and enjoy live entertainment. Further down Becker Avenue, residents and visitors alike can visit the Belen Art League Gallery, which is filled with creations by local artists. Further down the street, world-renowned artist Judy Chicago has renovated the old Belen Hotel as her home and studio. Across the street is her non-profit Through the Flower educational facility. While the traditions and small town feel

remain, the progressive works of the city council and chamber of commerce are moving the city forward and readying it for the expected growth thats coming. A newly annexed 6,000 acres west of the citys borders could double the size of Belen over the next 15 years and bring more industry, stores and restaurants to the community. With the Manzano Mountain wilderness lying to the east of Belen, hiking and picnicking is a stones throw away.

Source of Water: Groundwater Sewer: City of Belen Solid Waste: City of Belen Electric: Public Service Co. of New Mexico Natural Gas: New Mexico Gas Co. Telephone: CenturyLink Transportation Air: A general aviation airport Intercity bus: TNM&O Train, Freight: Burlington Northern Santa Fe; New Mexico Rail Runner Express, a commuter train with multiple daily runs from Belen to Albuquerque and Santa Fe, with bus connections at train stations. Services Police: City of Belen Fire: City of Belen Parks: The city of Belen maintains parks, athletic fields, recreation facilities and a senior citizens center

DemographicsPopulation: 7,269 (2010 U.S. Census) Population trends, 1960 to 2010 (U.S. Bureau of Census) 1960: 5,031 1970: 4,823 1980: 5,617 1990: 6,547 2000: 6,901 2010: 7,269 Utilities Water: City of Belen

Belen Rio Communities Los Lunas Mountainair Albuquerque

Bosque Farms A Country ConditionBosque FarmsGovernment: Mayor Robert Knowlton, Councilors Wayne Ake, William Kennedy, Russell Walkup and Dolly Wallace Clerk/Administrator: Gayle Jones Municipal Judge: R. Lar Thomas Police Chief: Greg Jones Fire Chief: Spencer Wood he village of Bosque Farms is the northernmost municipality in Valencia County. Nestled on the east bank of the Rio Grande, Bosque Farms is a well-known dairy and farming community. The first known inhabitants of the area that is now Bosque Farms were the sedentary Tiwa Indians, who lived in small pueblos along the Rio Grande from Taos Pueblo to Mexico. Following a period of Spanish exploration and settlement, the Bosque Farms area later became part of a land grant. The Depression years saw much of the grant land repossessed and administered through the federal government. The drains, canals and levees were constructed to improve soils and irrigation for agriculture and also to help prevent flooding from the river. This land was divided into 44 farms ranging in size from 40 to 80 acres each by the federal government, and farmers were moved onto the land. It wasnt until the 1960s that developers began to subdivide the land in Bosque Farms into lots of one acre or less. Residents were able to enjoy a rural atmosphere and keep horses and other livestock on their property. In the early 70s, several residents began to complain about the lack of law enforcement in the village. As a response to their dilemma, a citizens patrol was formed. Night after night, the residents patrolled the roads and ditches looking for suspicious activity.

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THE VILLAGE OF BOSQUE FARMS is nestled on the east bank of the Rio Grande. The village is a well-known dairy, farming and horse community.

From the citizens patrol evolved the idea that Bosque Farms really needed its own police officers and was in need of becoming its own town. Instead of counting on the county for all its support, residents started circulating petitions calling for a special election to become an incorporated village. Residents realized that the advantages of that, of course, were that they would get the gross receipts from the businesses along N.M. 47 to purchase their own police cars instead of depending on others. Another issue for incorporation was zoning. People were starting to come to Valencia County in droves from the city. The zoning, or the lack of it, in Valencia County wasnt good, and people who owned land in Bosque Farms didnt want it

to look like that, said former Mayor Sharon Eastman. We thought if we incorporated and had proper zoning, we could protect our property values and guide development. The village of Bosque Farms was finally incorporated on Saturday, June 1, 1974. The incorporation was ratified by 75 percent of the voters in a special election. Of the 632 accepted ballots, 475 were in favor of incorporation and 157 were against it. An unexpectedly high 86 percent of the 752 eligible voters living in the village turned out to vote in the single-issue election. Two months later, Bosque Farms had its election and selected its first mayor, council and municipal judge.


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Continued from page 30Population: 3,904 (2010 U.S. Census) Population trends, 1970 to 2010 (U.S. Bureau of Census) 1970: 1,699 1980: 3,353 1990: 3,791 2000: 3,931 2010: 3,904 Utilities Water: Village of Bosque Farms Source of Water: Ground water Sewer: Village of Bosque Farms Solid Waste: Waste Management Inc. Electric: Public Service Co. of New Mexico Natural Gas: New Mexico Gas Co. Telephone: CenturyLink Services Police: Village of Bosque Farms Fire: Bosque Farms Volunteer Fire Department Parks: The village of Bosque Farms maintains a park, baseball fields, tennis courts and a community/senior center. There is also a privately-owned rodeo arena.

Demographics

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Peralta Los PlaceresPeraltaGovernment: Mayor Bryan Olguin, Councilors Tracy Aragon, Leon Otero, Joseph Romero and Lorenzo Moya Interim Clerk: Dick Wayne Municipal Judge: David Young Police Chief: Bosque Farms Chief Greg Jones Fire Chief: John Dear

years. The town was named for Andres and Manuel de Peralta sometime before 1680, says Mayor Bryan Olguin. Its much older than that, but that is the first records they had, Olguin said. He said El Camino Real runs through the area. According to historian Robert Julyan, the town is also named for Pedro de Peralta, a native of Valladolid in New Spain, who was among those returning to New Mexico after the reconquest in 1692. His descendants still live in the area. Locally, the community has been known as Los Placeres, the placers, for reasons unknown. All of Peralta was basically the Lo de Padilla land grant, Olguin said. Many of the heirs of the Spanish land grant owners still live here. Julyan wrote that in 1862, Confederate and Union troops battled near the town. A battle with similar characteristics is featured in the Sergio Leone film The Good, the Bad, and the Ugly. It ended in a Union victory and the Confederate army retreated through Los Lunas. The confederates basically got spanked here and driven back to Texas, Olguin said.

P

eralta was only incorporated as a town in 2007, but its history stretches back hundreds of

THE TOWN OF PERALTA, mostly a farming community, was incorporated in 2007. The

largely agricultural community still boasts its small-town charm and lush green fields.

In 1863, Col. Kit Carson mobilized his forces in Peralta prior to the campaign against the Navajos, according to Julyan. Olguin said the first post office was established in 1861. Julyan writes that in 1865, the post offices name was changed to Los Pinos, the pines, or perhaps a family name, but in 1866 it reverted to Peralta. He said the town of Peralta is the site of an early Methodist church, and the Catholic church in the town, Our Lady of Guadalupe, is more than 150 years old. It recently went through a major renovation. The town is full of historical buildings.

Olguin said the town was largely agricultural, the major industry being sheep shearing. There are still some farmers around here, he said. N.M. 47 has been expanded from a dirt road to a two-lane highway and then to the four-lane highway it is now.

DemographicsPopulation: 3,660 (2010 Census)


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Continued from page 32Population trends, 1990 to 2010 (U.S. Bureau of Census) 1990: 3.182* 2000: 3,750* 2010: 3,660 *Population for Peralta Census Designated Place, prior to formal incorporation. Utilities Water: Well water Source of Water: Groundwater Sewer: Septic Electric: Public Service Co. of New Mexico Natural Gas: New Mexico Gas Co. Telephone: CenturyLink Transportation Air: Albuquerque International Airport is 20 minutes away Services Police: Village of Bosque Farms Fire: Peralta Volunteer Fire Department Area Total: 4.4 square miles.

Capturing the flavor of Los LunasSmall community. Big possibilities. Rich past. Bright future. Deep roots. Growing opportunities.Village of Los Lunas Main Street & Don Pasqual 505 839-3840Mayor

Be part of our family.

Right place. Right pace.Robert VialpandoVillage Administrator

Peter FernandezCouncilors

www.loslunasnm.gov

Charles Griego Richard Lovato Amanda Perea Gerard Saiz

A community that works. Living. Working. Caring. Sharing.

Valencia County Breathtaking VistasValencia CountyGovernment: County Commission: Chairman Donald Holiday, Vice Chairwoman Georgia Otero-Kirkham, Mary Andersen, Lawrence Romero and Ron Gentry County Manager: Bruce Swingle County Clerk: Sally Perea County Assessor: Viola Garcia-Vallljos County Treasurer: Dorothy Lovato County Sheriff: Louis Burkhard District Attorney: Lemuel Martinez Probate Judge: Jaime Baca District Court Judges: William Sanchez and Violet Otero Magistrates: John Buddy Sanchez, Danny Hawkes and Tina Gallegos

alencia County is part of the Rio Abajo, an area of the Middle Rio Grande Valley of New Mexico that stretches from the Espaola Valley in northern New Mexico, to Sabinal in the south. The Spaniards settled this area as early as 1598 after the first colony was founded by Gov. Juan De Oate in the Native American village of Ohke on the upper East Bank of the Rio Grande. The Espaola Valley was called the Ro Arriba (the Upper River) while the area just below La Bajada Hill was called the Ro Abajo (the Lower River) valley. New settlements were always found near Indian Pueblos. The Pueblo Indians were friendly and insisted that the new colonists build their homes near the Rio Grande. The river had a lot to offer to both the Natives and the colonists in the way of sustenance to both man and beasts. The county comprises 1,458 square miles in central New Mexico, bordering on Socorro County directly to the south, Cibola County to the west, Bernalillo

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County to the north and Torrance County to the east. The county seat is in the village of Los Lunas, 20 miles south of the states largest city, Albuquerque. The quality of life in the county can be characterized by a strong sense of community that is enhanced by a rural lifestyle. Residents of the area have identified peace and quiet, friendliness of the people, and terrific weather as benefits that has made this rural setting a wonderful place to visit and live.

(U.S. Bureau of Census) 1960: 15,146 1970: 20,451 1980: 30,769 1990: 45,235 2000: 66,152 2010: 76,569 *Valencia County was split in 1981 to form two counties, Valencia and Cibola. Populations for 1960 to 1980 are computed from census data only for the Los Lunas and Belen Census Divisions. Services: The Conejo Waste Transfer Station, 1100 Manzano Expressway, is open 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. every day. Its closed at times of high wind. Valencia County Animal Shelter, 1209, N.M. 314, in Los Lunas; 9 a.m. to 5 p.m, Tuesday through Saturday; 505-8662479. Community centers: Casa Colorada, Don Jose y Dolores Cordova Cultural Center in Jarales, El Cerro Community Center and Meadow Lake Community Center. Senior Centers: Belen Senior Center, Fred Luna Senior Center, Meadow Lake Senior Center and Del Rio Senior Center

DemographicsPopulation: 76,569 (2010 Census) Employment: Valencia County, traditionally an agricultural area, has become increasingly diversified. Residents still cherish a quality of life thats both country and cool access to big-city amenities but rural in character. A steady influx of new residents from Albuquerque in search of pleasant alternatives to city living spurred population growth of 16 percent between 2000 and 2010 in the county, and fairly rapid growth is expected to continue in the future. Valencia County has been a magnet for industries needing room to expand. The attractions are low-cost industrial sites, easy transportation access, available workforce, affordable housing and a positive business climate. Population trends, 1960 to 2010*

Valencia County sLargest Employers

Moving forward... Proud to be one of

Isleta Pueblo Melding Past and Presents one of the oldest communities in Valencia County, Isleta Pueblo, has made the transition into the 21st century while still protecting and nurturing its traditions. Originally established around the 1300s, the name Isleta comes from the Spanish language and means Little Island.

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Hotel and Convention CenterIn 2010, the Isleta tribal government signed a contract with the world famous Hard Rock organization to manage its facilities, now known collectively as the Hard Rock Casino and Resort. It is located just south of Interstate 25, about 15 minutes from the Albuquerque International Sunport. As part of the resort, the Hard Rock Hotel and Convention Center offers everything a guest could ask for breathtaking rooms with top-of-the-line amenities, convenient on-site services and shops. The business traveler will find a state-ofthe art convention center, business services center and in-room wireless Internet access. The professional staff will help ensure that your stay runs smoothly and professionally. Each guest room contains luxury linens, a large flat-screen television, an iPod docking station, alarm clock and wireless Internet access. From a corporate board meeting to a dream wedding, the Hard Rock Hotel and Convention Center offers luxurious accommodations and all the amenities. With over 30,000 square feet of meeting facilities and seven individual meeting rooms configurable to accommodate groups of any size, the resort offers services, such as catering, event management, transportation and technology management for your next important event.

300,000 square-foot Hard Rock Casino, offering slots, table games, bingo and poker. Adjacent to the casino is a state-ofthe-art showroom, featuring national acts throughout the year. If you are looking for a more intimate gaming space, the Palace West Casino is worth checking out. Open daily from 8 a.m.-midnight, the non-smoking facility features your favorite slot and video games with a self-serve drink and snack station. The Palace West Casino is only minutes away from the Hard Rock Casino and Resort at the intersection of N.M. 314 and N.M. 45. Both casinos honor the free Isleta Rewards Card.

GamingRight next door to the luxury hotel, Vegas-style gaming can be found at the

Nine, and Mesa Nine. For the youngsters and family fun, just north of the casino is an arcade and amusement center featuring bowling and a wide variety of arcade games. Then, just down the road, find one of the most beautiful oasis in the Southwest at Isleta Lakes and RV Park. It has 50 fullservice RV sites equipped with all the necessities, plus Direct TV, high speed wireless Internet, shower and laundry facilities and a full-service coinvent store. Each site has a private grill, picnic table and grassy area. Be sure to grab your SPF-15 and your tackle box though, because the lakes near by are stocked with fish year round, including channel catfish in the spring and summer, and rainbow trout in the fall and Golf, Lakes and RV Park winter. Across the highway from the resort is More conveniences include a fish cleanIsleta Eagle, one of the Southwests preing station, restroom facilities at both miere, award-winning golf destinations, lakes, 44 shelters, a volleyball court and a featuring a beautifully manicured 27-hole convenience store where you can pick up course with three 9-hole tracts designed around and named after their primary topo- groceries, drinks, baits, tackle, fishing graphic feature The Lakes Nine, Arroyo accessories and fishing licenses and permits.

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Cell: 505-459-4167 Bus: 505-866-6266 Direct: 505-765-9937 Ext. 1024 Fax: 505-866-6366 [email protected] 601 Main St., Suite 22 Los Lunas

Quality Education In Los Lunas SchoolsAdministrationSuperintendent: Bernard R. Saiz Board of Education: Charles Tabet, president; Shaun Gibson, vice president; Robert Archuletta, secretary; members Christopher Marthinez and Kelly Chavez Administration building: 119 Luna Ave., Los Lunas, 87031, 505-865-9636 Website: www.llschools.net rom pre-kinder all the way through upperclassman, the Los Lunas School District is consistently providing students with quality education, an enthusiasm for knowledge and a drive to succeed. The district is comprised of roughly 8,600 students in 17 schools, including 11 elementary schools, two middle schools, two high schools and one alternative high school. This year, the Jostens Renaissance program has been established in every school in the district. It is the only national program created to recognize and reward the academic achievements of students from elementary school through college. The goals are to increase student performance and teacher enthusiasm and enhance school community participation. The old and the new mix together with Bosque Farms Elementary as one of the districts oldest schools, built in 1936, and Sundance Elementary, the newest school, completed in January 2009. Bosque Farms Elementary is a Blue Ribbon school, and was recently renovated. An adobe style two-story building was added, all buildings were upgraded for new technology and a new playground installed. The intermixing of tradition and innovation is visible not only in the school buildings architecture but, most importantly, inside the classroom. This year, Los Lunas High School will undergo renovation, in a two-phase con-

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struction plan beginning after graduation. The new school will be designed around the concept of Smaller Learning Communities and reflect state-of-the-art technology. The high school was also the recipient of a solar energy grant of $600,000, and installed a 50 kW photovoltaic solar power system. Students monitor the system to evaluate daily energy production, giving them hands-on technical experience using math, engineering and the computerized monitoring software. It was the schools Project Lead the Way pre-engineering students who brainstormed the initial architectural design and optimal location site for the new solar energy system, and were also instrumental in winning the grant for the school. Project Lead the Way is a four-year sequence of courses that introduces students to the scope, rigor and discipline of engineering prior to entering college.

Courses offered include digital electronics and aerospace engineering. Regardless of which elementary, middle or high school any given student attends, the curriculum standard to which they perform and academic expectations remain the same. The districts newest high school is Valencia High School, home of the Jaguars. The schools mission is to break away from the traditional high school to form a student-centered learning community. The school is designed around the concept of Smaller Learning Communities, which focuses on meeting individual needs, beginning with a freshman academy. All of the high schools are equipped with computerized E2020 courses and offer dual-enrollment classes so students can


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Continued from page 38advance at their own speed. Between curriculum, innovative programs and a rich history, Los Lunas students are reaping the benefits of a multidimensional school district that prepares them for tomorrow, while instilling a sense of community.

Students 545

Elementary Schools

Phone: 865-6223 Principal: Samial Morerod Staff: 62, Certified 34 Students: 525

Principal: Monica Arguello Staff: 48, Certified 25 Students: 290

Daniel Fernandez Elementary32 Sun Valley Road Los Lunas, N.M., 87031 Phone: 865-1044 Principal: Penny Whorten Staff: 55, Certified 30 Students: 400

Los Lunas Elementary800 Coronado Road Los Lunas, N.M., 87031 Phone: 865-9313 Principal: Valerie Otero Staff: 78, Certified 33 Students: 533

Tom Elementary46 Chacon Road Tome, N.M., 87066 Phone: 865-1102 Principal: Felipe Armijo Staff: 74, Certified 47 Students: 544

High Schools

Los Lunas High School1776 Emilio Lopez Road Los Lunas, N.M., 87031 Phone: 865-4646 Principal: Dan Padilla Staff: 124, Certified 81 Students: 1,269

Desert View Elementary49 Camino La Canada Los Lunas, N.M., 87031 Phone: 866-2488 Principal: Diedra Martinez Staff: 70, Certified 38 Students: 499

Sundance Elementary School3701 Sundance Street, SW Los Lunas, N.M., 87031 Phone: 866-0185 Principal: Mildred Chavez Staff: 42, Certified 24 Students: 536

Valencia Elementary111 Monica Road Los Lunas, N.M., 87031 Phone: 865-3017 Principal: Julie Crum Staff: 61, Certified 40 Students: 386

Valencia High School310 Bonita Vista Blvd. Los Lunas, N.M., 87031 Phone: 565-8755 Principal: Andrew Saiz Staff: 106, Certified 58 Students: 933

Family School32 Sun Valley Road Los Lunas, N.M., 87031 Phone: 865-1044 Principal Penny Whorten Students: 35

Raymond Gabaldon Elementary454 Coronado Los Lunas, N.M., 87031 Phone: 866-0456 Principal: Barbara Carrillo Staff: 41, Certified 20 Students: 335

Peralta Elementary3645 N.M. 47 Peralta, N.M., 87042 Phone: 869-2679

Century High School320 Bonita Vista Blvd. Los Lunas, N.M., 87031 Phone: 866-2153 Principal: Wilson Holland Staff: 11, Certified 7 Students: 100

Ann Parish Elementary112 Meadow Lake Road Los Lunas, N.M., 87031 Phone: 865-7364 Principal: Elena Trodden Staff: 69, Certified 40 Students: 507

Middle SchoolsLos Lunas Middle School220 Luna Ave. Los Lunas, N.M., 87031 Phone: 865-7273 Principal: Victoria Baca Staff: 73, Certified 45 Students: 754

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Bosque Farms Elementary1390 W. Bosque Loop Bosque Farms, N.M., 87066 Phone: 869-2646 Principal: Cindy Philips Staff: 62, Certified 34 Students: 427

864-7434, 864-0891 FaxMon-Fri 8:30-6:30 Saturday 8:30-3:00 Se Habla Espaol

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Valencia Middle SchoolMiddle School 22 Marlink Road Los Lunas, N.M., 87031 Phone: 865-1750 Principal: Ron Hendrix Staff: 51, Certified 33

Katherine Gallegos Elementary236 Don Pasqual Road Los Lunas, N.M., 87031

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Striving For Excellence At Belen SchoolsAdministrationSuperintendent: Ron Marquez Board of Education: Sam Chavez, president; members Adrian Pino, Dolores Lola Quintana, Lorraine Espinosa and Larry Lindberg Administration building: 520 N. Main St., Belen, 87002; 505-966-1000 Website: www.belen.schoolfusion.us he Belen Consolidated School District is destined to continue the path toward academic success with its driven students and innovative programs. About 4,450 students attend Belens seven elementary schools, one middle school, one high school and an alternative school in a district that wants to excel. The Belen district uses programs, such as the Career Academy, as a benchmark to encourage students to be the best they can be. Belen High School has made several additions to its career academy, including a pre-engineering program and a health-technology-based program. The academy includes nursing and emergency medical technician training. The academy has career pathways in agriculture, digital media, health technology, family and consumer science, business and culinary arts. There are many courses in the program that have dual credit with the University of New Mexico-Valencia Campus and Central New Mexico Community College in Albuquerque. The district, the 16th largest in the state, has about 735 employees and 30 administrators and has implemented programs from bilingual education to computer-aided drafting. Voters r

Welcome to Valencia County: 2012-13 Official Visitors Guide

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