Select from the list below to view the article for that event. Shown in order of date published.

Tunes in the Park Features Trinity

Posted October 6, 2024

This season of Tunes in the Park, held at Ripley Park on Sunday afternoons throughout the summer, featured local talent, Trinity for its final performance.

Trinity, son of Carmen and Orlando Martinez has made his name in the music industry, and treated the community with a wonderful performance that involved several costume changes, contemporary original songs, and plenty of audience involvement. The dance contest was won by Beverly Baca. But of course, who else would have a great beat other than our own Queen of DJ – Bev! Although, if Carmen Martinez hadn’t been disqualified because she is Trinity’s mom, she would have won, hands down!

From Local to Global: First Baptist Church Hosts Block Party with AWANA’s Helping Hands

Published August 24, 2024. Written by Niko Ibanez

This past Wednesday evening, August 21, the First Baptist Church transformed their front lawn into a hub of summer joy. The event drew stir crazy teenagers and parents wary from a long summer, with dozens of attendees enjoying the festivities well into the twilight.

The block party featured a variety of engaging activities and treats. Children ran through the refreshing spray of a firetruck’s hose (compliments of firefighters volunteering their time), blew bubbles from giant wands alongside their friends, and jostled along the lawn carrying sweet treats and prizes. Ben Campbell, the church’s Youth Minister, served as DJ to add a musical backdrop to the liveliness. He and young volunteers ran rounds of musical chairs, each winner earning bags of homemade cookies and other endearing goods donated from the congregation. 

Joelyn Pafford – retired educator of 42-year tenure, Vice President of The Raton Unit of the New Mexico Educational Retiree Association, master gardener – spoke to the event’s purpose. “This is a celebration of the end of summer. Teachers never like to hear the end of summer, but we really just wanted to invite the community to come and visit, make new friends, reconnect, and enjoy community together.” She emphasized the importance of community engagement and providing these little summer celebrations for the kids. “We really made sure we had something to represent all four food groups: sugar, sugar, sugar, and fat,” she quipped.

The church’s commitment to coterie is evident in its regular programs, which include Sunday school, a youth group for grades 7-12, adult Bible study, and AWANA programs on Wednesday nights. The AWANA program, which stands for “Approved Workmen Are Not Ashamed,” is an international non-denominational Christian ministry that aligns with the church’s mission of community service and spiritual growth. As Pafford noted, “We do these services in the glory of God for our community.”

The block party was a testament to their congregation’s and neighbors’ dedication to fostering a vibrant, inclusive community. With the support of volunteers and enthusiastic participation of local families, the event succeeded in bringing joy and connection to Raton’s residents.

Photos by Frank Mahannah

Raton Rotary Club Contributes to Robert Wick
for His Continued Education

On August 13, 2024, Robert Wick received a scholarship from Raton Rotary to attend the University of New Mexico-Albuquerque. He’s going to major in anthropology and minor in archaeology. His father Bob and his grandmother Sue Downing also attended. Proud moments flew around the room when Rotary members Pat Walsh and Elizabeth Ortega shared Robert’s student activities. And Jari Thymian recalled meeting Robert when he had been a Jr Rotarian in December 2023. Congratulations, Robert! Off to college you go!

Community Spirit Flourishes at Back-to-School Bash

Posted August 17, 2024 Written by Niko Ibanez

Veneranda’s eyes seemed to light up as she recounted how friends, family, and neighbors came together to organize the lively park celebration, the Back to School Bash,on August 10 at Romero Park. “It only took a week and a half to put together,” she exclaimed as, in the background, Daniel Rodriguez of Self Made Barbershop gave a boy a free taper fade.

Veneranda Chavez, local business owner, had originally posted on Facebook to reach out to her neighbors about giving the youth a joyful send-off before the new school year. She was met immediately with generosity and enthusiasm.

The bash, funded entirely by private donations, featured a range of refreshments. Free haircuts were offered by Daniel Rodriguez of Self Made Barbershop, who traveled from Trinidad. The event boasted bounce houses, face painting, music, and snow cones. Carmelita Martinez, owner of Bubble Heart Soap Co. LLC, provided free water, lawn games, and a kiddie pool, while James Herrera of Omerta Boys food truck ensured everyone was well-fed with a generous supply of food and drinks.

Logan Trujillo, a participant and supporter of the local community, praised the event’s impact. “All of this is really important for the children: those just getting here and those who have lived here, people who are hungry or want to see friends. It’s good for children and good for adults, and simply good for the community,” explained Trujillo, who works at Zia Youth Center and lends his leadership skills to Zia’s Tabletop Gaming Club every Sunday.

The atmosphere was filled with togetherness as cousins and neighbors connected. Three or four dozen children buzzed around the park as parents and guardians relaxed, knowing school would soon bring structure to their kids’ days.

As the day came to a close, it was clear that the “Back to School Bash” had accomplished more than just providing a fun day for the kids—it had strengthened the bonds within the community, reminding everyone of the power of collective effort and generosity.

Raton Rotary Club Contributes to Nefertiti Yoon
for Her Continued Education

Nefertiti Yoon, daughter of City Clerk Desire’e Trujillo received a $1,000 check from the Raton Rotary Club to contribute to her continued education. Ms. Yoon plans to pursue a degree in nursing at Colorado State University in Pueblo.

Raton Rotary Club donates to Pinwheel

Raton Rotary Club President Jari Thymian presented a $250.00 donation to Amanda Segura of Pinwheel to help purchase supplies to provide activities for their clients.

Raton Rotary Club Donates to Raton MainStreet
for Gate City Music Festival

Posted on August 2, 2024

Raton Rotary Club President Jari Thymian presents a check from the Rotary Club for $250.00 to Brenda Ferri, MainStreet Director to help with the Raton MainStreet Gate City Music Festival coming up on Labor Day weekend.

Tombstone of a Captor of Billy the Kid to be Dedicated at Raton, New Mexico

August 4, 2024

The dedication ceremony for Frank Stewart’s tombstone, one of the captors of Billy the Kid, will be held at Fairmont Cemetery on Tuesday, August 6, 2024, at 10:00 AM. A book signing with the two authors, Kurt House and Roy Young will be at the Arthur Johnson Memorial Library at 1:00 PM.

Read the press release provided by the authors below.

Posted on July 29, 2024

Media Release – July 25, 2024

The Wild West History Association (WWHA) is pleased to announce the completed installation of a grave marker for Frank Stewart (alias of John Wallace Green) in Raton, New Mexico.  Stewart was the co-leader, with Pat Garrett, of the posse that captured Billy the Kid and his small group of cohorts at Stinking Spring, east of Fort Sumner, on December 23, 1880.

Stewart/Green died intestate on May 11, 1935, and his body was interred in the Raton, New Mexico, Fairmont Cemetery.  For many years, historians tried to find his death date and burial site, with no luck.  Then, unavailable by any means other than searching years of newspaper issues, via microfilm, in the May 13, 1935, edition of the Raton Range, the very brief announcement of his death was found – minus any accolades or the slightest mention of the important role the man had played in the chase and capture of Billy the Kid.

The full story of the life of Frank Stewart/John Green was unknown until the 2022 publication of the book Chasing Billy the Kid: The Untold Story of the Manhunt for William H. Bonney, by historians Kurt House and Roy B. Young (Three Rivers Publishing Company).  During their work and research into Stewart/Green’s life, the two authors determined that ‘if and when’ the location of the man’s grave could be determined, they would work with WWHA to see that it was finally marked with an appropriate tombstone and epitaph.

Knowing that Stewart/Green was buried in Raton, House and Young made a trip there in 2022 to investigate the exact cemetery and hopefully the exact plot in the cemetery.  Meeting with several knowledgeable local citizens, cemetery sextons, funeral home directors, and city officials, the cemetery was identified but no record could be found of the exact unmarked plot.  Through the courtesy and historic interest of the cemetery sexton, a most desirable unused plot was selected to honor Stewart/Green with a grave marker. 

The original plan was to have a dedication ceremony at the cemetery in the fall of 2023, but due to an unforeseen delay in getting the marker engraved and installed, the ceremony is now scheduled for August 6, 2024 at 10:00 a.m. at Raton’s Fairmont Cemetery.  The public is cordially invited to attend.

Roy B. Young, royyoung@pldi.net

Kurt House, cowboyhous@aol.com

Fun Frogs and Prizes at the Tadpole Derby

August 4, 2024 – by Faith Howard

On August 3, the inaugural Tadpole Derby made its debut at Lake Maloya, in Sugarite Canyon State Park. Two groups of children ages 4-8 and 9-14 participated . The kids excitedly hunted for frogs and tadpoles, hoping to find the heaviest creatures, as the winner was determined based on weight. All the prizes were donated, and each age group had a different set of prizes. The younger kids received RC cars, Legos, and outdoor games, while the older group received headphones, fishing poles, etc. What was a surprise though, was that the prizes were not just for the winners. The winner received a prize and got to select another random participant to receive a prize as well, encouraging the act of giving back, and friendly competition. “I got one! I finally got one!” Said one child, “Yay! I’m doing so good!” said another. Remarks like these could be heard throughout the event, proving just how much fun everyone was having.

This was a great event for families to be able to spend time together outdoors, but it was created to help control the local frog population. The recent rains brought in a large amount of tadpoles and according to the organizers if every person attending catches 10, the excessive numbers can be safely reduced. Another benefit of the derby was that all money made from the event will go to funding the fish in the lake, demonstrating the event’s dedication to environmental protection. So, participation in this helps the community in more ways than one. The Tadpole Derby will continue annually as long as the turnout remains high, and the frogs still require removal.

Thanks to everyone at Sugarite for providing a wonderful experience!

Miss Run to Raton 2024 Announced

Posted August 3, 2024 – Written by Niko Ibanez

A short thunderstorm delayed Miss Run to Raton 2024, but that was no obstacle for the Ratonians organizing the eighth iteration of this whimsical tradition that is held during the annual Run to Raton event.. The Pinup Pageant crowned TieAnna Lopez as “Miss Baby Face Marie” who captivated the judges with her stage presence and mid-century authenticity, earning her the top honor. Lopez, who impressed the judges with her stage presence and authenticity to the pinup theme, was awarded the top honor. Annie Lovato, known as “Miss Annie Oakley,” secured the position of 1st Runner Up, while Heather Marie was named the 2nd Runner Up. The esteemed panel of judges included Bridgette Betterholf, Beki Woods, and Amanda Nicole, the reigning Miss Run to Raton 2023. Emcee Jillian McKee (Miss Run to Raton 2022 ) returned while Jenny Mills, Miss Run to Raton 2017, hosted the event.

The theme for this year’s pageant was tiki, a nod to the post-World War II fascination with South Pacific island culture. Contestants dazzled in bright floral dresses, sarongs, and beautiful floral hairpieces embodying the nostalgic tiki style that became popular in the late 1950s and ’60s. The theme was reflected throughout the event, with participants and attendees alike embracing the vibrant tiki aesthetic with colorful leis and Hawaiian shirts.

In addition to showcasing their costumes, participants answered pinup-related questions on stage to showcase the spontaneity and personality of the competition. 

The pageant’s success was made possible by generous sponsors, including Dottie’s Doggy Day Spaw, which provided a cash donation, and Retro Pinups by Randy Poe, who donated a professional pinup photo shoot for the top two winners. The organizers are already looking ahead to next year’s festivities, with plans to introduce a “Junior Rockabilly” contest and potentially bring back the “Beard and Mustache” contest.

Jenny Mills, also known as “Miss Bonanza Jellybean,” extended gratitude to all sponsors and contributors for their continued support, urging anyone interested in supporting the event through gifts, trophies, sashes, or cash and service donations to come forward. The Miss Run to Raton Pageant remains a cherished celebration of Raton’s vibrant community and pinup culture.

Lopez, in her new role, will represent Raton at the upcoming Frank Stewart dedication event on Tuesday, August 6, at the Fairmont Cemetery at 10:00 AM. Frank Stewart who played a large role in the capture of Billy the Kid, lived his final years in Raton and was buried in the Fairmont Cemetery.  Read more about Frank Stewart in The Ratonian article Frank Stewart Headstone Placed in Raton Cemetery. The authors of the book, Chasing Billy the Kid: Frank Stewart and The Untold Story of the Manhunt for William H. Bonney, will be at the ceremony, and later that day will be at the Arthur Johnson Memorial Library at 1:00 PM for a book signing.

Raton Rotary Spiffs Up 1st Street

Posted on July 31, 2024

In the early morning hours of July 30, 2024, this trio of volunteers put a RR tie border around the flower bed in front of Ramel Family Farms’ Heirloom Shop and Mama K’s Ice Cream Shop. No more feet will tread on the plants and flowers under the tree.

Thank you AJ Reilly, Al Frydryk, and Greg Fischer for your service above self.

Kayvan Khalatbari came out to thank the guys and admire the work. AJ missed the photo with Kayvan by a couple minutes.

The tables outside the Heirloom shop and Mama K’s Ice Cream are a great place to meet-up. Nice tables, chairs, and shade to share with friends and family! It’s even a good place to have a small business meeting.

Raton Rotary Library Beautification Continues

Posted on July 31, 2024

It was a mulchy day at the library on July 30, 2024! The City of Raton delivered and spread mulch on the plant beds that Rotary and friends cleaned up on July 20th.

Raton Museum Hosts Author Reception and Exhibit

Posted July 28, 2024

The Raton Museum, 108 S. 2nd Street, Raton, hosted an author’s reception and exhibit on July 20, 2024. Artist and author Thom Ross presented history and information about the Chicago Black Sox scandal through his artwork and book, The Black Sox, A Century Later.

The exhibit will be on display through August 3, 2024. The Raton Museum hours are: Tuesday through Friday 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM and on Saturday 9:00 AM – 4:00 PM.

Photos by Leonore Barfield

Lemonade Day Illuminates Local Entrepreneurs

Posted July 11, 2024. Written by Niko Ibañez

This past Saturday, July 6, 2024 turned out to be one of the largest fleets of “lemontrepreneurs” since the inauguration of Raton’s annual Lemonade Day festivities. With 25 separate registered vendors listed on a map designed and distributed by the Center for Community Innovation (CCI), young entrepreneurs lined the route along 1st, 2nd, and Clayton Rd. There were 11 local businesses acting as sponsors and judges this year, all listed on CCI’s site. 

The lemontrepreneurs diversified their selections once again this year, sporting a variety of lemon- or summer-themed delights. Treats included sweet and spicy candies (which many locals referred to as “Mexican candies,” ranging from the classic tamarind spoons and chamoy gummies to homemade concoctions combining the sweet Latino traditions of coating natural sugars in sours and citruses). Several vendors honed in on a brand to sell. Boba Cat advertised tapioca and popping pearls on vibrant flyers posted physically across the city’s community boards; The Sweet Spot offered fresh pastries and tattoos; Cutesy Nade outside 111 Park Espresso Bar sold both treats and local artwork. Any patron walking this year’s lemonade route may have noticed the vendors’ matching branded shirts and uniforms, another detail only possible through the help of local sponsorship.

Several space and extraterrestrial themes dotted the lemonade route. StarGaze Lemonade constructed a large rocket and donned matching pink astronaut suits. Others shops included Sweet & Spicy with a sharply designed logo; Mad Science with accompanying labcoat and “experimental” tastes; Homerun Lemonade’s giant baseball stand with accompanying baseball player uniforms; Lenn’s Lemonade Pitt Stop decorated with checkers and race stripes outside the Autozone Auto Parts; and Tiki Twist Lemonade Shack’s all-out luau aesthetic. Official vendor stand photography can be found on the Facebook CCI page, where locals have submitted a popular vote.

Phil Long Ford will host a public awards ceremony for best design, costumes, product, etc. this Saturday, July 13, at 5:00 p.m. The long-standing car dealership sponsored the entirety of the costs of vending licenses this year for Lemonade Day, a considerable contribution. 

Rotary Club Post Office Beautification Continues

Posted July 10, 2024

This morning in front of the Raton post office, Lisa Camp, Al Frydryk, and Greg Fischer installed planters for six flowering perennials. Watch them grow and bloom next time you go mail a package or buy stamps! This is an extension of the clean-up Raton Rotary started on June 22nd. Thanks go to Bill Allen for buying the wood and plants, Lisa for the planter design and plant selection & expertise, and Kayvan at Ramel Family Farms for a big barrel of topsoil. Just awesome! Thank you to you all!

Balloons Lift Off!

Posted July 1, 2024

The weather wasn’t very cooperative this year for the Raton balloon rally. The best day for watching was on Friday, July 5, as all thirteen balloons ascended into the air. The air time was rather short because the breeze took the balloons to the north over the city with three of them landing in the Roundhouse Memorial Park area, and one came down in an empty field just north of the Arby’s restaurant.

The pancake breakfast by the Raton Elks Lodge #865 was a huge hit, and the music provided by “Elvis” aka Noby Gomez was fun and lively. KRTN radio was on hand doing live interviews, and Raton MainStreet, which was responsible for organizing this annual event for the past several years. was selling pins, t-shirts, and other memorabilia for the event. Great coffee and other drinks were for sale from Sage Coffee and 111 Park Espresso.

4th of July Parade

Posted July 7, 2024

Phil Long Ford Block Party Fun

June 17, 2024 by Nikolaos Ibanez

The community gathered in high spirits at the Phil Long Ford dealership for their eagerly anticipated block party. Months of preparation by local businesses and community leaders culminated in a memorable start to the summer for all attendees.

Phil Long Ford of Raton, the host, has experience providing what the people of Raton want. Months ago, they put out a call on Facebook for volunteers to dress up as cartoons. This call was answered in whimsical fashion as Disney princesses and superheroes roamed the festival, handing out business cards and posing with families. A bounce house and cornhole tournament filled the dealership’s lot. The Boarder Baggers, the local cornhole sports league, have displayed the results of this tournament on their page, where locals can also contact them about future cornhole events.

New to the festival scene was Desi Curry Corner, a food truck freshly opened this month. They represent the first Indian cuisine to serve Raton as the aromas of butter chicken, chicken manchurian, roti, cumin rice, gulab jamun, and mango lassi drifted down Second Street. 

The range of vendors included Barela Crafts, New Moon Salon, Really Nice Stuff, 222 Designs, Car Freshies by Jennifer Portillos, Canyon Side Snacks, and Krossroads among others. Alongside the routine tote bags and pens, the mental health clinic Krossroads also set out free boxes of Narcan in a poignant reminder of the variety of support offered within our community. Naloxone (its medical name) is used to rapidly reverse an opioid overdose, an issue that disproportionately affects our community. 74% of all overdose deaths involve opioids in New Mexico, as cited by the New Mexico Department of Health in 2019.

Just around the corner was the Lions Club, a service organization dedicated to community well-being, who sold turkey legs to delighted festival-goers. Spectators reported also filling their day with the Cottage Market at Heritage Park (the train station park) and the Little League All-Stars games. Whether we dress up as princesses to delight and inspire others, support local sports leagues, or hand out emergency medical supplies, this year’s block party held testament to the community’s enduring spirit and cooperation.

Posted June 23, 2024

Smokey Bear Reading Challenge/Speakers Series Kicks Off At Raton Library

by Mary Elder

The Arthur Johnson Memorial Library in Raton invites young readers to learn more about Smokey Bear, fire prevention and conservation this summer through participation in the Smokey Bear Reading Challenge. Readers who complete three books and four badges will earn a prize. The challenge is geared for ages 4 to 10 but all ages are welcome.

In conjunction with the challenge, the library is hosting a Smokey Bear speaker series at 2 p.m. each Saturday through July 27. The series kicked off June 15 with a presentation by Mary Elder, a retired U.S. Forest Service and U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service communications official who served with Smokey Bear at Forest Service headquarters in Washington, D.C. She shared Smokey’s history, both as a symbol of fire prevention— “Only you can prevent wildfires!”—and the black bear cub given that name in 1950 after surviving a forest fire in the Capitan Mountains of New Mexico.

She also led children in a discussion of the importance of public lands for recreation and wildlife habitat and as sources of food, fuel, timber and clean water. “Just as you want people to respect your house and neighborhood when they visit, we should respect the habitats, or homes, of wildlife and plants when we spend time on public lands. If you don’t protect them,” she asked, “who will?”       

To learn more about Smokey Bear, visit smokeybear.com. To learn more about library programming, call 575.445.9711 or stop by at 224 Cook Ave.

Photos by Frank Mahannah

Raton Rotary Club Volunteers Work to Beautify Area in Front of Post Office

June 23, 2024 by Jari Thymian

15 volunteers (Rotary members and community volunteers) spiffed up the front of the post office Saturday morning, June 22.

Master Gardener Lisa Camp helped identify weeds and plants to be preserved. Thank you, Lisa!

Next clean-up: Saturday, July 20th (3rd Saturday), 7:30-9:30 am., meet in front of library if you’d like to join in, bring hats, sunscreen, water, knee pads, gloves, garden tools if you have some, etc.

Thanks to all who made this possible and fun!

Flag Retirement Ceremony Well Attended

Posted June 21, 2024

Written by Jana Floersheim

The Flag Retirement Ceremony held on July 14, 2024 at the Raton Aquatic Center was a success and well attended. The Raton VFW posted the colors and gave an informational program about the flag of the USA. It was a picturesque evening following a small rain storm and the sun came out as the Raton Fire Department began to dispose of the old and tattered flags into a large fire circle. At the end of the ceremony, the New Mexico flags went in as Old Fair New Mexico played. Hot dogs were provided to all attendees.

Photos by Frank Mahannah

Terri “Lil’ Loca” Cruz Honored with City Proclamation in Heartfelt Raton Homecoming

June 16, 2024 by Niko Ibanez

Enthusiastic children swarmed the trendsetting Terri “Lil’ Loca” Cruz on June 4 at the Zia Youth Center. Cruz, whose tremendous boxing career had her inducted into the 2019 International Women’s Boxing Hall of Fame, exuded grace as she autographed construction paper championship belts and graphic tees featuring her likeness. Zia Youth Executive Director Linda Headley and members of The Friends of Terri Cruz, who collaborated on this celebration, greeted the crowd gathered to honor this celebrity Raton native.

The event, held to honor Cruz with a city proclamation for her outstanding achievements, began with a tribute from World Boxing Council judge and referee, Stephen Blea. “You know, when you think about women, [they] do not get the props that they deserve, especially when they’re single, hard-working mothers,'” Blea stated. “I got to see Terry come up from a single mom, get her career in boxing, and also maintain two, sometimes, big jobs just to support her family. So I’m really honored to say that I saw her become a champion.”

Cruz’s journey began in Raton, New Mexico, although her boxing career took off in her current home of Denver. Her 15 year career has earned the title “Road Warrior” as she fought across  Colorado, Texas, South Dakota, Nevada, Arizona, New Mexico, South Korea (twice), Germany, and Australia. She clinched her first title, the International Female Boxers Association (IFBA) World Bantamweight Title, on October 5, 2005.

City Manager Rick Mestas highlighted Cruz’s significant contributions. “Unselfishly caring for a family member with disabilities and serving as a role model to other up-and-coming women in boxing. Isaac Newton popularized the saying that we seek further by standing on the shoulders of giants. As valid as this is, it is really in how and in which direction we choose to look. Where most are influenced by the mentors during our formative years, Terry is truly a giant in women’s sports, and generations of other girls will soon stand on her shoulders as women making a difference,” Mestas declared. He further honored Cruz by inducting her into the Order of the Oslo, a secret society recognizing citizens for their public service. Cruz is only the 15th member and the third non-public employee to receive this honor.

Community Cleanup Estimated Totals

June 4, 2024

Hello,

Again want to thank everyone for all of their hard work on the community
cleanup.  I believe that it was quite a success.  The approximate totals
are below

Trash and Rubbish – 4 Completely full rolloff containers.    160 Cubic
Yards Weighing approximately 24 tons or 48,000 L.bs.

49 Mattresses Enough to fill over half of a full size semi trailer.

Over 220 Cubic Yards of tree branches. It is a very impressive pile.

Thanks again.

Jason Phillips|
Public Works Director
City of Raton
P.O. Box 910
Raton, NM  87740
Phone (575)445-9551

Eighty to Ninety Volunteers vs Trash = Cleaner Raton

Posted June 2, 2024

By Jari Thymian

After a media blitz of several weeks to promote the community clean-up event, nearly 100 volunteers picked up trash for several hours on Saturday, June 1. Willing workers met at the visitor center at 8:00 a.m. where they received safety and organization instructions, orange event t-shirts, bags, and trash pickers.

Then the dirty work started. Bags of every imaginable and often disgusting kind of garbage was picked, bagged, loaded, hoisted, hauled from parking lots, ditches, and side streets along Clayton Road. Some with trucks and trailers picked up tires, furniture, mattresses, appliances, etc. from alleys, streets, business and private properties in many parts of Raton.

Raton looks better thanks to these hard-working people, but there is a lot more clean-up to do. The work is by no means done. It will be an ongoing effort. The first community clean up took place on the Clayton Highway because it is the first impression of our city for many travelers who get off the I-25 interstate to fill up gas and tummies before heading on to their destination. A quick glance around the strip of gas stations, restaurants, motels and hotels, reveals a myriad of trash, large and small that visitors see. Thanks to the many volunteers who worked for several hours on Saturday, that view is cleaner, and more inviting now.

Total amounts of trash will be calculated this coming week at the Raton Business Task Force meeting. A plan for quarterly clean-ups will also be decided at that time.

For more information or to get added to the email list for the next event, contact Alisha Grubelnik at 575-447-0123 or Kathleen Hanson at 575-445-7170.

Photos by Jari Thymian

Run for the Wall Riders Welcomed in Raton

Posted May 26, 2024

Nearly 100 riders came through Raton on May 18, 2024 on their way to the Vietnam War Memorial in Washington, D.C. to gas up at the Conoco station on the Clayton highway, take a short break, and enjoy refreshments. “The Wall” was built in 1982 to honor those who gave all in the service of our country during the Vietnam War.

The Independent Riders organized the event in Raton that included help and participation from the Raton Fire Department, Raton Rapid Response, Nathanial Sandoval Fire Marshal, City of Raton and Workers, Conoco Alta (Amy), Raton Peak Inn (Diana &Mike), Raton Visitors Center, Super Save, (Cory Ortega) Wells Fargo Bank (Miguel) and Malissa and Noel Colangelo for putting up the flags on Clayton Rd and 2nd Street. The organization appreciated too, all the businesses on Clayton Rd who shut down business while the Central Group came through.

Julian and Mellissa Gutierrez and their crew helped at the gas pumps and provided traffic control. Other volunteers included David Pacheco, Tom Ferguson, and Alan Horner and the Pueblo Chapter, the Gaona’s, Jose (Tortilla) Rosa and the Sopapillas .

The Independent Riders of Raton gave a big “Thank You” for all of the donations given for the event during various fundraisers, especially Tom and Fonda Davis! Shawn Johnson , Ron Chavez as well as to the Sweet Shop, K-Bobs , 111 Park Coffee Shop, Gate City Craft Bar, Billy Donati and KRTN and to the citizens of Raton.

“We ride for those that can’t”

The Run for the Wall started in May of 1989 by veterans James Gregory and Bill Evans. There are four routes on which veterans travel to reach the memorial by Memorial Day each year: Central Route
Starts in Ontario, California and ends at the Vietnam Veteran’s Memorial Wall in Washington, D.C.
Midway Route; Starts in Ontario, California and ends at the Vietnam Veteran’s Memorial Wall in Washington, D.C.; Southern Route Starts in Ontario, California and ends at the Vietnam Veteran’s Memorial Wall in Washington, D.C.; Sandbox Route Starts at Arlington National Cemetery in Virginia and ends at the Middle East Conflicts Wall Memorial in Marseilles, Illinois.

Read more about Run for the Wall at https://rftw.us/

Photos provided by Frank Mahannah and Mary Elder

Posted May 16, 2024

Rob Prince Speaks at El Raton Theater about Palestine/Israeli Conflict

by Nikolaos Ibanez

In the heart of town, El Raton Theater was buzzing with anticipation as dedicated organizers meticulously arranged the stage for an academic evening. Formally known as the Colfax Las Animas Forum for Peace, CLAFP represents both long-time residents and transplants rallying locals to engage in meaningful global dialogue.

At the forefront of this event sat lecturer Rob Prince, accompanied by County Democratic Party Chairman Will Weir. Prince, renowned for his expertise in Middle Eastern affairs, advocated for a ceasefire to the violence inflicted upon Palestine by the Israeli Defense Force and Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu. During the Q&A session, the audience posed a range of questions about the protection of both Israeli and Palestinian human rights as defined by the UN, which reflected a deep commitment to understanding the complexities of the conflict and exploring avenues for peace.

Rob Prince’s qualifications lend weight to his insights on the Middle East. As a lecturer of International Studies at the University of Denver’s Korbel School of International Studies, he has played a pivotal role in shaping the undergraduate major in International Studies. Despite hailing from New York City, Prince’s commitment to Colorado spans 43 years, during which he has been a fixture in higher education since 1971. Trained in Anthropology and Economics, his work focuses on the development challenges of post-colonial peripheral countries, with a particular emphasis on Algeria and Tunisia. Beyond academia, Prince is a family man, married with two grown daughters and a beloved 15-year-old dog named Cloudy. Additionally, he maintains the blog Colorado Progressive Jewish News, further solidifying his dedication to progressive dialogue and activism.

Reflecting on the significance of hosting such events, Kayvan Khalatbari of El Raton Theater and Ramel Family Farms, shared his thoughts. “As El Raton Theater comes back to life, it serves as a safe space for these types of conversations,” he remarked. “We’re happy to have events here because the Palestinian conflict is not just a global issue; it affects people on both sides here in the states. It’s encouraging to see people show up to learn more about the conflict and how they can be a part of it, even though they’re halfway across the world.”

For Jeff McLean of Zia Youth Center, the conflict has long been “off his radar,” perceived as an enduring, distant, and insurmountable issue. Yet, engaging with the community provides him with valuable insights into activism and civil engagement. “Having insight on how to be engaged civilly, locally is just incredibly important,” he noted, emphasizing the power of grassroots movements in affecting meaningful change.

As this inaugural event for CLAFP drew to a close, organizers reflected on its success and looked ahead to future engagements. The upcoming free showing of the documentary, “Israelism,” slated for May 18th at 7:00 p.m., promises to continue the dialogue on pressing global issues. Sponsored by the Colfax Las Animas Forum for Peace and Justice, El Raton Theater, and The Colfax County Democratic Party invites all curious minds to participate in the conversation

Ann Theis and Beki Laird of El Raton Media Works volunteered their time to produce a live recording of this event, which can be found at the following link: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=jz0wcVpiLck

Posted May 12, 2024

2024 Cinco de Mayo Celebration Offers Fun for the Whole Family

The first Cinco de Mayo in Raton for several years was brought to life at Ripley Park by several individuals who believed that it is an important cultural event that should be celebrated in our community. Thanks to Carmen Martinez and others, May 4th and 5th found Ripley Park alive with fun activities, music, and food.

DJ Teddy Romero was the MC for the event and kept things rolling with tug of war, pinata filling and breaking, and wonderful mariachi music. Both Saturday and Sunday were well attended even though the springtime wind caused a few mishaps.

Photos by Frank Mahannah

2023 Christmas on the Chicorica

Article and Photos courtesy of Sandra Young

The annual Christmas on the Chicorica event was held on Saturday, December 9, 2023, at the Sugarite Canyon State Park Visitors Center with the help of staff and volunteers.

It was such a perfect night for it. Visitors enjoyed a walk along luminary-lined sidewalks while Ranger Walter Luba held an axe throwing contest, giving out candies to the participants. The barrel fire was roaring, the trail was perfectly cleared, and the two volunteers on the telescopes were brilliant. One telescope was set on the crescent moon, the other on Jupiter, that was proudly showing off all four moons. Kids loved the industrial laser pointer, maybe even more than the telescopes, that they could point up at the clusters and constellations. The winter Milky Way was glorious. We are so lucky to have dark skies. Mr. Rick Mestas, Raton City Manager, is interested in getting the region certified. There was a huge offering of home-made cookies and treats along with the hot cider, coffee and chocolate.

Posted December 10, 2023

Raton Elks Lodge #865 Hoop Shoot Contest

Information and photos courtesy of Raton Elks Lodge #865

The Raton Elks Lodge #865 is known for providing fun activities for the youth in our community. The Hoop Shoot Contest held at Raton Intermediate School on Saturday, December 9, was another example of the community involvement and philanthropy of the Raton Elks Lodge.

The winners of the contest were in the 12-13 age girls LeAnn Gonzales, 11-12 girls Allison Petrini, 8-9 girls Lacey Cruz, 8-9 boys Anson Mares, 10-11 boys Kobe Arreola, 12-13 boys LJ Martinez They will advance to the district competition in Tucumcari NM.

Raton Elks Lodge #865 2023 hoop shooters! Great job to all of our competitors that came out in snowy weather to participate! Huge THANK YOU to Hammer Forged Athletics & Training Center for providing a month membership for strength training for all of our 1st place Champs and to Raton Regional Aquatic Center for providing all 2nd place Champs a day swim pass!

Posted December 9, 2023

2023 Raton Ambassadors Christmas Party and Induction of Officers

The Raton Ambassadors annual Christmas Party held at the NRA Whittington Center this past Thursday evening included an induction ceremony for the elected officers of the organization, a special dinner, and a fun gift exchange that kept everyone guessing what was coming next.

Raton Ambassador Sandra Young led the ceremony which included an oath of office that reminded the incoming officers of the purpose of the Raton Ambassadors, and the importance of the organization in providing support for our businesses and in welcoming newcomers to Raton. The incoming officers included Terri Segotta as President, Hal Roueche as Vice-President, Laura Brewer as Secretary, and Trudy Maney as Treasurer. Ms. Maney attended the ceremony via video call from Bastrop, Texas with Brandi Dietz stepping in to light the candles for Maney during the ceremony and to accept the 2024 officer pin in her absence. After each officer was pinned with their pin, other members stepped forward to receive their own 2024 membership pins. Vests and nametags were provided to new members who had not yet received them.

After the induction of officers, Laura Brewer presented a Press Hat to long-time member, Frank Mahannah, who has been the official photographer for the Raton Ambassador for many years. He has generously donated his photos for other organizations in the community as well and has many of his photos available for purchase in special presentation cards. He is currently working on a 2024 calendar that will feature some of his photos of the past year and will be available to order for purchase. During the evening’s fun President Terri Segotta also addressed the group with information about the beginnings of the Raton Ambassadors in 1963, which was considered the official greeters for dignitaries and businesses. At that time they wore formal gold jackets and represented various businesses in the community.

The delicious meal provided by Jay D Fish consisted of either prime rib, or seasoned chicken, a vegetable side, salad, roll, and dessert. Coffee, tea, and soft drinks were also available.

Photos by Frank Mahannah and Hal Brewer

The first membership meeting for the organization will be held on January 18 at Casa Lemus Restaurant when the officers will officially take their positions. The Raton Ambassadors’ monthly meetings are held every third Thursday at 11:00 AM at Casa Lemus. Visitors are welcome to attend.

Posted December 8, 2023

Winter Mixer Brings Newcomers Together

Jason Bennett and Laurie Bunker, two fairly new residents to Raton, jumped right in to our community with energy and resources to provide recreation and business to our fair city. The latest event, the Winter Mixer held at Gate City Craft Bar, 244 S. 1st Street, brought together long-time residents and newcomers in a fun-filled afternoon. During the afternoon, Ann Theis and Jose Lopez with El Raton Media Works, did some interviews with several of the newcomers and asked, “Why did you move to Raton.” Go to El Raton Media Works Blog to see the interviews.

Frank Mahannah, official community photographer, took photos of the event, and I took one of him too.

November 18, 2023

Kicking off Holiday Season at Annual Convention Center Bazaar

Pottery, jewelry, leatherworks, quilts, knitted items, and jams and jellies, were just a few of the wonderful gift items available for holiday shoppers at the annual bazaar held in the convention center on Saturday, November 18, 2023. Many of the vendors who filled the convention center depend on this once-a-year event to fill their own coffers, usually to buy more supplies for next year’s event.

Generally, this is the first of many bazaars held in Raton during the holiday season. Other bazaars coming up are the Phil Long Ford Christmas Bazaar on December 2, 10:00 AM – 3:00 PM and First United Methodist Church, Little Critters Bazaar, December 2, 9:00 PM – 1:00 PM.

Other related holiday events are Photos with Santa by the Raton Humane Society, November 25, 10:00 am – 3:00 PM in the Shuler Theater and the Santa in the Center hosted by the Raton Lions Club on November 25, 11:00 AM – 3:00 PM. On December 2, in the Raton High School Cafeteria, the Grinch movie along with pictures with Grinch or Santa will benefit Raton Cheer. On December 16, Duncan Automotive at 245 N. 2^nd Street will be holding a Picture with Grinch event, 10:00 AM – 3:00 PM. Check the dates on The Ratonian Calendar to see the corresponding flyers for the events listed.

Of course, there is the year-round bazaar at the Made in Raton consignment shop at 216 N. 2^nd Street where gift buying is available Thursday through Saturday and the many wonderful gift shops and boutiques in Raton that offer hand-made and specialty items. Watch for some gift-giving ideas when The Ratonian begins the daily “Santa Shops in Raton” feature beginning on Tuesday, November 21.

Photos by Frank Mahannah – except the one of himself.

Tails and Ales Event Finds Homes for Furry Friends

The Raton Humane Society volunteers walked several larger, older dogs and showed off a few kittens to prospective owners during Saturday’s Tails and Ales event held at the Gate City Craft Bar, 244 S. 1st Street. Success! One dog and two cats found forever homes.

During the event, John Curry, a driver/volunteer for the Pampa Animal Welfare Society (PAWS) located in Pampa, Texas, stopped by to ask about collaborating with the Raton Humane Society, when they are transporting animals from kill shelters in Texas to non-kill shelters in Colorado. Curry asked if Raton could provide the Raton van if Pampas’ van breaks down during transport. Barb agreed to lend whatever help they could.

The Raton Humane Society, one of the most active volunteer organizations in Raton, lead by Barbara Bonahoom, holds various fund-raising events throughout the year in order to purchase food, supplies, and other help that the local animal shelter needs and to provide awareness to the community. Several volunteers help at the shelter by socializing the dogs and cats, helping during photo shoots, and offer their assistance by selling raffle tickets. There are still raffle tickets available for purchase. The items being raffled are a painting by Carl Swanson and two donations quilts.

November 15, 2023

First Responders Appreciation Dinner Serves Those Who Serve

By Mary Elder, Contributor

More than 100 first responders and immediate family members from around the region were treated to an early Thanksgiving feast Nov. 15 at the Raton Convention Center. Honorees included personnel from the Raton Fire Department, Raton Police Department, Colfax County Rapid Response, Colfax County Sheriff’s Office, New Mexico Department of Game & Fish, and New Mexico State Police.

Family Worship Center Pastor Forrest McConnell, flanked by a squad of cheerful volunteers in matching “#loveyourcity” tee shirts, told invited guests: “We serve you this one night because you serve us all the time.” He also acknowledged the critical support first responders receive from spouses, children, and other family members. “Your understanding when there are the inevitable conflicts between work and home life makes it possible for them to do their important jobs,” he said.

FWC presented inscribed dog tag-style pendants to honorees to serve as a constant reminder of the community’s backing. “We’re always here for you, any time, even if you just need someone to talk to,” Pastor McConnell assured them. Additionally, volunteers delivered hot meals to first responders on duty during the dinner.

This was the seventh year of the event hosted by the Family Worship Center, with assistance or donations from Leonard Zamora, the City of Raton, and Super Save Discount Food.

Photos by Mary Elder

October 23, 2023

Mya Burgos Volleyball Tournament Fundraiser

To help with medical bills for RHS student Mya Burgos, a volleyball fundraiser was held on October 23, 2023 in the RHS gymnasium. Various teams signed up to compete against each other paying a $30.00 entry fee per student player or a $60.00 fee for adult player. All proceeds were for Mya’s family.

Photos by Frank Mahannah

October 21, 2023

Raton High School Fall Festival

Raton High School hosted the inaugural Fall Festival on Saturday, October 21, 2023, in the Raton Tiger Stadium. The event offered fun booths, food, and a variety of activities like a cornhole contest, pony rides, a bouncy house, costume contest and more.

Several of the high school classes had booths set up to help raise money to fund their future senior class trips. In addition, non-profit groups were set up to raise funds for their organizations.

Photos by Frank Mahannah

September 28, 2023

Suicide Prevention Awareness Candlelight Vigil Held

Raton, like many communities throughout our nation, has seen an increase in suicides that touches lives of nearly everyone. With the increase in numbers, has come an increase in the importance of shining a light on the causes and resources available for the friends and families left behind.

On Thursday, September 28, the Northeast New Mexico Suicide Awareness Project, headquartered in Las Vegas, New Mexico, organized a candlelight vigil in Ripley Park to bring awareness to the community, and to provide a time for family and friends to remember those they have lost. Several speakers connected to the project spoke about the ones they have lost and the grief they have endured. The opportunity to remember and share in their grief with each other allowed them to begin the healing process, but knowing they will never forget.

For more information call Tina Gallegos (505) 587-3825 or email nenmsap@gmail.com

Photos by Frank Mahannah

September 15, 2023

2nd Annual Recovery & Remembrance Celebration

The Second Annual Recovery and Remembrance Ceremony held at Ripley Park in Raton on Saturday, September 15, 2023, provided an opportunity for friends and family to remember loved ones lost to drugs and alcohol.

During the event, several groups were on hand to provide information about resources available about drug or alcohol addiction, suicide prevention, and other issues the community faces. Not only did the event provide information, but it gave several guest speakers, who are recovering, time to share their experience, strength, and hope.

This year’s event included a luncheon of green chili beef enchiladas, chicken tenders, and salad prepared by K-Bob’s and Super Save, with water and sodas. The meal and drinks were provided by the following sponsors:

Regional Agency Intervention Network dba RAIN

Recovery Cities of New Mexico

Local Collaborative 8

Krossroads Integrative Health & Recovery Solutions

Pinwheel Health Center

Rio Grande ATP

First United Methodist Church

Holy Trinity Episcopal Church

Mesa Pharmacy

Raton’s Peak Inn

The Ratonian

September 3, 2023

Raton Museum Honors Howard Woodworth

The Raton Museum paid special tribute to Howard Woodworth in August for his long-time commitment to the Museum, the Santa Fe Trail School for the Performing Arts, the Raton Humane Society, Raton MainStreet and to the Raton community in general. Woodworth has served with various organizations as board member, actor, organizer, and volunteer for several decades, and just recently retired from his volunteer duties.  The reception honoring Woodworth coincided with the closing of the Bernard Sandoval gallery exhibit, “New Mexico Impressions.”

Membership for the Raton Museum is $35.00 annually and provides free admission to the museum and the various exhibits throughout the year. Daily admission is $5.00 during open hours, Tuesday, Wednesday, Friday, and Saturday 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM. Thursday 9:00 AM – 4:00 PM.

The Raton Museum in collaboration with Vermejo is offering a tour of the Koehler mine in late September. The fee of $75 per person goes to support the Raton Museum. Call (575) 445-8979 for reservations, limited number of spots available.

Rocky Mountain 3-Gun Shooting Competition

By Denise Johnson

Rocky Mountain 3-Gun started at the beautiful NRA Whittington Center in 2003. It was started by the same people who ran the last Soldier of Fortune match back then. Eight stages of natural terrain 3-Gun.

But, what is 3-Gun? It’s one of the most dynamic shooting sports out there. Usually, it’s an individual competition. Each shooter uses rifle, pistol, and shotgun either alone or in some combination on each stage. A stage is one challenge. At Rocky Mountain 3-Gun, they now have 9 stages for shooters each year.

The great thing about the Whittington Center is the back-drop of the Sangre de Cristo Mountains to shoot into. There are gullies, mountains, rocks, draws, cliffs, mesas, ruins…all sorts of things to add to the challenges of accuracy, speed and safety.

3-Gun is a timed event where fastest time wins. Everything the shooter does wrong on a stage adds to their time. The targets may be, steel, paper, clays and once in a while, even a balloon or a clown. For rifle, the Whittington center allows for quite nice distances. Usually out to 400 yards, but every year there are a couple beyond that out to 600 yards, and there’s always some quite close targets to mix things up. Shotgun targets can be stationary or moving. They have stationary steel and clays and they have thrown, lofted, swinging, flying clays to add to the challenge. A few targets are for slugs each year and can be out to 150 yards. For pistol, a target can be at point blank or even out to 50 or 60 yards.

Each gun tests the shooters skills in many ways. Add to that, the shooter must move through the area and locate targets and decide when to engage them and from where. Walking over rocks, wet areas and wildlife adds to the challenge. Competitors have seen snakes, bugs, bears, foxes, turkeys, deer, pronghorn and even mountain lions while on a stage, and at times even have to wait for the wildlife before continuing. There’s no shortage of wild, wildlife stories.

In 2006, JJ and Denise Johnson ran the match unofficially and took over the match officially in 2007. In 2014, Rocky Mountain 3-Gun went International with 14 countries including Russia, the Czech Republic, Sweden, Mexico, Canada and Germany descended on the Whittington Center for five days of shooting with 15 stages and a team shoot for some crazy fun!

In 2022, Rocky Mountain 3-Gun celebrated its 20^th year. The Johnsons passed the match on to Emily and Jared Bucher from Colorado and Ben Herman from Cimarron to continue the tradition of classic 3-Gun in the natural terrain.

Rocky Mountain led the way into natural terrain stages as well as helped bring 3-Gun to the marines. The dynamic nature of moving and shooting, abandoning firearms safely and then retrieving the next one safely, helped marines get more self-aware. Many marines have expressed that it is better training that just lying on the line.

All that is needed to start in the game is a semi-automatic rifle and pistol to be competitive. The shotgun can be semi-automatic or pump and the rifle can be scoped or not. One can have red dots or not, depending on the division.

At this time, Rocky Mountain 3-Gun has five divisions. Open Division is the least restrictive. Anything goes…bipods, bags, scopes, dots, side sights, whatever one wishes. Competitors can even use a mag fed shotgun, but only in Open Division. Limited Scope division requires that the shotgun and pistol have iron sights, but the rifle can have a scope. Limited Iron require all guns have irons (a rifle can have a 1X dot.) He-Man Scope – which is .308 (can have a scope), pump 12 gauge and .45 pistol. These are the big guns. He-Man was named by a Pueblo police officer, Eddie Rhodes and was originally only the guns for He-Man Iron – .308, 12gauge pump and .45 pistol. Iron on all 3. Today, 1X on the rifle is allowed. Occasionally, a sling is needed on the rifle or the shotgun.

In all divisions, a holster that retains the pistol during basic movement is required, magazines for rifle and pistol are needed (more than one might think – all pistol stage had 52 targets in 2023 – all rifle stage had 36) and some kind of holders for the shot shells. There are a couple of different methods to load and can be seen online. The All Shotgun stage had 37 bird and 2 slugs.

3-Gun is multi-tasking at its best. Just to give an example, in 2023, stage 9 at Rocky Mountain started inside the ruins at the Company Store (which is up Van Houten Canyon). The rifle is held at low ready. The shotgun is tube loaded, empty chamber around the corner, and the competitor’s pistol is completely empty in holster.

On the start signal (the timer beeps) the competitor climbs up on some rocks and shoots the rifle at three swinging steel targets on the hill, and then six small dangly steel targets, and a big stationary steel target called an ABC. Then he or she climbs down and heads to the door, where there is a couple more dangly steel and a very close paper target. The competitor then runs to the other door, shoots another ABC and then abandons the gun muzzle down in the barrel on safe or empty! Then the competitor gets the shotgun, loads it and begins to shoot the shotgun targets. Most targets are steel, though there was a bird that shot straight up in the air near the beginning when the popper was shot. The competitor then progresses down the hill and around a couple bushes to get to the shotgun dump barrel. Then he or she abandons the shotgun on safety or empty and then draws and loads the pistol and continues down the path engaging two paper and 10 steel while moving down the path. This is one of the shorter stages, but is so much fun!

As one can imagine, there was some missing, some swearing and some great success. There was a dead rattlesnake out there and a bear wandered through as well.

There is nowhere like Whittington to shoot this kind of action match. There are films online of people shooting stages throughout the years. There are a number on Facebook as well!

To see more pictures from Rocky Mountain and more, please go to:  https://rm3gun.smugmug.com/

If you enjoy shooting, nature and having fun, you might look into Rocky Mountain 3-Gun!

Contact: rockymountain3g@gmail.com

Photos courtesy of Denise Johnson

Duncan Automotive Celebrates Grand Opening

On Saturday, August 19, 2023 at 12:00 PM, the Raton Ambassadors and several people from the community were on hand to welcome Duncan Automotive to downtown Raton. Family members grilled up hot dogs and hamburgers, chips, punch, and a cake to commemorate the event. Additonally, Raton MainStreet Director Brenda Ferri presented owner Daniel Duncan with the traveling Key to Downtown Raton.

Duncan has had several years of experience as a mechanic and is looking forward to putting his expertise to work in his own business located at 245 N. 2nd Street, Raton. Call (575) 245-2886 Monday through Friday, 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM.

24th Annual International Golf Tournament

The largest tournament held every year at the Raton Country Club and Golf Course, the International Golf Tournament, had 81 participants from New Mexico; Raton, Clayton, Las Vegas, Las Cruces, Socorro, Albuquerque, and Rio Rancho, as well as participants from Colorado and Ft. Worth, Texas.

There were no entries in the 1st Flight. The winners in the other flights were:

4th Flight L-R: Scott Parker, Susan Parker, Kenny Lee
3rd Flight L-R: Shane Trujillo, Donald Eikleberry, Mike Bhatty
2nd Flight L-R: Joe Stein, Canon City, CO; Rod Soden, Rocky Ford, CO; Sam Adams, Fowler, CO

Community Baby Shower

August 5, 2023

Several organizations came together recently to provide new mothers and expectant mothers with some necessary baby supplies and information about resources that are available in our community that can help those in need. The Walking with Moms in Need organization provides that outreach and was created as a direct result of St. John Paul II’s leadership in efforts to “build a culture of life” throughout the Catholic Church.

The community baby shower held on Saturday August 5, was a culmination of the past nine months “spiritual adoption” effort to bring attention to the needs of expectant mothers. Although this inaugural community baby shower was limited to volunteer efforts by the St Patrick-St Joseph Catholic Church, Vickie Blaisure, one of the organizers, explained that she would like to see this as a true collaboration by the entire community. For more information about Walking with Moms in Need call St. Patrick-St Joseph Catholic Church (575) 445-9763.

Local Rider to Compete in Supercross

The Third Annual Supercross in Raton on September 9, 2023, is expected to draw a huge crowd of spectators and participants from New Mexico and surrounding states. One local competitor, Lennox Cummings is nine years old, and has been racing for the past three years and is a member of the Rocky Mountain Riders Association. Young Lennox, who started riding on a four-wheeler at the age of four,  races the 50cc 7-8 Class, 50cc Open and the 65cc 7-9 Class.  His favorite Pro 450 rider is of course New Mexico’s own Jason Anderson, who has family in Raton. He also likes Haden Deegan in the 250 Pro Class.

According to Kim Davis, one of the organizers who helped bring Supercross to Raton, the Colfax County Event Center and Rodeo Grounds needed a lot of work to get it ready for Supercross. The location had to be widened by 50 feet, with new dirt and sand being hauled in. All of the work was done by dedicated volunteers and the sand was donated by the TO Ranch outside of Raton and hauled in by Colfax County trucks.

Lennox’s local sponsors are Phil Long Ford of Raton, Money Inc. Motorsports,  Kathleen Hanson Suite Kizmets’ Pet Resort, Raton Mainstreet Brenda Ferri, Kennedy Hunting Services, Jami Esquibel WIT Accounting Services, The Sprinkle Dispensary ®, Woodys Furniture Trinidad, and Topar Racing.

Photos by Hallen Ass Productions are courtesy of Christine Gutierrez.

Visit https://www.centerci.org/raton-supercross for more information or to buy tickets.

2023 Raton/Colfax Relay for Life

August 5, 2023

The annual Relay for Life event was held on August 5, 2023 at the Raton High School Tiger Stadium. Several family, friends, and co-workers of survivors, and of those who were lost to this disease, were on hand to raise funds to donate to the American Cancer Society in its efforts to find a cure and eradicate this disease.

Team members, who had taken pledges of donations, took turns walking around the luminaria-lined track during this eight-hour event. During the relay, which consisted of ten teams, cancer survivors took a lap to celebrate them as survivors, then caregivers join them, followed by a remembrance ceremony of those who fought.

Photos by Frank Mahannah

Back to School Barbeque and School Supply Give Away

The annual school supply give away held this year in Roundhouse Memorial Park gazebo on July 29th included games, food, and schools supplies. Zia Youth, with the help of local donations and a $1,000.00 donation from First National Loan Production Office in Raton, provided the barbeque and over 300 bags of school supplies to several local children.

Photos by Frank Mahannah

Raton Pickleball Gains in Popularity

Pickleball is the fastest-growing recreational pastime across the country, even earning Sunday afternoon national sports coverage on CBS this past weekend. With the increase in interest, pickleball courts are popping up in many communities, including Raton, to accommodate this popular sport. However, the Raton courts are simply tennis courts taped out in the proper dimensions for pickleball, making two tennis courts into six pickleball courts. The Raton Pickleball Club is hoping to convince the City of Raton to provide real pickleball courts for this enormously popular sport, which according to Forbes has been the fastest growing sport for the past two years.

Recently, the Pickleball Club in Raton held a three-day tournament by applying tape to the tennis courts located north of Raton High School to convert it to six smaller pickleball courts. The event drew competitors from locations throughout New Mexico, including as far away as Albuquerque. The local club hopes to convince the City of Raton to build eight pickleball courts in the downtown area in the empty dirt lot north of the post office. According to Barb Bonahoom, a former tennis player and instructor, who has converted to pickleball in recent years, the project would receive $100,000 from Stanlee Gatti to go towards building the courts in that location to help clean up and improve the empty lot and downtown Raton. Gatti, an event designer and arts administrator, based in San Francisco, California, is from Raton, and continues to invest in various ventures in his hometown. However, the lack of parking in the downtown location and traffic congestion during tournaments would need to be considered. Another location that has been discussed is near the Raton Regional Aquatic Center in the Roundhouse Memorial Park. The park currently contains a horseshoe park, frisbee golf course, and a dog park; all of which have been suffering disrepair and neglect.

With the popularity of this sport, the Raton club is convinced that the courts would encourage visitors to stop in and stay a few days. Tournament players that came from Albuquerque for the Raton tournament mentioned that Albuquerque has recognized the draw of pickleball, and has ten courts, with plans to build 100 more.

In an interview, City Manager Scott Berry stated that the city is currently looking at plans to add restrooms to the Little League field, continuing the bike path throughout town and into Sugarite Canyon State Park, clearing and improving the underground tunnel that connects the downtown to the Roundhouse memorial park, and other projects that have been on hold for the past several years because of the tight budget. Now that the city’s finances are improving, the city is working at providing improvements to the infrastructure and maintenance to the existing parks. Although the Commissioners have not designated a place where they would consider building pickleball courts, they have not yet committed to the need to build them at this time.

Read more about the history of pickleball at https://www.forbes.com/health/body/what-is-pickleball/

To learn more about Raton’s Pickleball Club, visit their Facebook page for more information.

Crewing a Hot Air Balloon

June 31 – July 3, 2023

During the 2023 International Santa Fe Trail Balloon Rally, the Raton Police Association, the Raton Crime Stoppers, and the Colfax County Sherriff’s Association, sponsored the Intervention Balloon from Albuquerque, New Mexico, piloted by Robert “Derek” Grassbaugh.

Throughout the three-day event, volunteers from the three organizations, helped unload, set up, and inflate the balloons to get it ready to fly. Once the balloon was airborn, the crew “chased” it to where it landed in order to deflate, wrap back up, and put away.

This year, Derek, a very skilled pilot, was able to land the balloon in the field south of the ascension area after a 20 minute ride on the first day. The second day, after a 40 minute ride, he landed it right back in the airfield just north of where it took off by finding the “box” overhead. The “box” is the air directions that carry the balloon in one direction, depending on the altitude the balloon reaches. By ascending or descending, the pilot is able to direct the balloon back to the ascension location.

The International Santa Fe Trail Balloon Rally began with six balloons in 1994 through the efforts of the Raton Chamber of Commerce with Mark Roper as the Director. For several years, the event grew to include more than 30 balloons until the Track Fire of 2011. After the fire, the event was cancelled because of drought and fire-hazard concerns. Later, Raton MainStreet took up the cause and has been responsible for bringing this event back every year during the 4th of July celebration.

Class of 1973 Reunion

June 30 – July1, 2023

During the weekend of the 2023 4th of July celebration, the Raton High School Class of 1973 celebrated its 50 year reunion. On Friday, June 30, the class caught up on old times together at the Raton Country Club and Golf Course. The following Saturday, they enjoyed the International Santa Fe Trail Balloon Rally, which included a 1973 class reunion sponsored balloon, co-sponsored with local radio KRTN titled Mae’s Magic, piloted by Shane Shipman. That evening the festivities continued with a dinner at the Elks on Saturday, July 1, catered by one of Raton’s favorites, Mr. C., followed by a dance with Noby Gomez as DJ.

Raton photographer Frank Mahannah was on hand taking pictures of the fun.

First National Loan Production Golf Tournament

July 9, 2023

On July 9. 2023 the Raton Country Club and Golf Course hosted the third annual First National Loan Production Golf Tournament. Twelve teams competed in one flight in the two-day event. The winners, JR Alderette, Tommy Barksdale and Eric Ortega took first place with a total combined average score of 107. Second place with a score of 113.4 went to Mike Bhatty, Kenny Lee, and Eric Caldwell. Third place was won by Danny Valenzuela, Diana Sanchez, and Carlos Chacon with a 115.0 score, and fourth place was taken with a score of 115.8 by Adam LeDoux, Bob LeDoux, and Tino Cordova.

Pictures provided by David Swanson.

Tillie Fund Awards $1,000.00 to Three Raton Youth

June 2, 2023

An award ceremony was held at Zia Youth, 207 Park Avenue, on Friday evening, June 2, at 6:00 PM where three young people were presented with $1,000.00 checks for their entries in the Tillie Fund application.

The Tillie Fund was started by Kathleen Hanson in remembrance of her dear Tillie, a pit bull who was a sweet and gentle companion. The fund was intended to encourage those youth who may not always receive recognition for their accomplishments, young people that Kathleen describes as “Quiet Shiners. ” As Kathleen said, “Limitations were assumed upon Tillie because she was a pit bull. Limitations should not be assumed upon anyone or anything. Just like the term ‘Children should be seen and not heard.’ Children are our world! Children have the best, most genuine, caring, loving, innocent ideas and the endearment and love, just like Tillie.”

Sponsors for the Tillie Fund included Doggie Stylz by Kathleen, Mesa Vista Veterinary Hospital, Home Associates, Inc., Phil Long Ford of Raton, Mesa Pharmacy, Donna Klassen, Pappas’ Sweet Shop, Bruno’s Pizza & Wings, Woody’s Furniture & Appliance, Wendy Mileta – Realty One, 111 Park – Espresso Bar & Cafe, Gate City Craft Bar, Solano’s Boot & Western Wear, and Zia Youth.

A committee was responsible for judging the entrants on the short essay that each entrant was required to submit describing the plan for a community service project, along with a letter of recommendation from someone other than a family member.

As the inaugural year for the Tillie Fund Award, the number of entrants was small simply because of the limited amount of time to get everything organized and promoted. However, organizer and sponsor with Zia Youth, Jeff McLean knows the number of young people participating and the number of community sponsors will grow each year as community awareness grows. The Tillie Fund is open to youth throughout Colfax County in 7th through 12th grades.

Select the following links to read the submitted essays: Chiara Martinez essay, Victoria Vega essay, Daisy Wingo essay.

Pictures below were provided by Frank Mahannah. First picture left to right: Victoria Vega, Daisy Wingo, and Chiara Martinez. Bottom row: First picture from left to right are: Linus, Kathleen Hanson, Valerie Alderette, Liz Wick, Victoria Vega, Linda Headley, Lucy, Jeff McLean. Second picture from left to right: Linus, Kathleen Hanson, Liz Wick, Chiara Martinez, Linda Headley, Jeff McLean. Third picture from left to right: Linus, Valerie Alderette, Kathleen Hanson, Liz Wick, Daisy Wingo, Linda Headley, Lucy, Jeff McLean.

NRAWC Trap Shoot

by Vixie Zoro June 2, 2023

For some people, nothing brings more joy after a long and hard day than heading down to the shooting range, calling “Pull!”, and smelling the gunpowder after crushing a clay target. I know that’s the case for me! Even though it’s rarely on TV, trapshooting is an amazing sport full of amazing people. Last week, the NRA Whittington Center held the 75th annual New Mexico State Trap Shoot, which started May 23 and ended May 28. As someone who competed in the shoot, I can tell you a little about what happened, the different states people came from, and more.

For those of you who are unfamiliar with the sport, let me explain: there are three main “events.” During Singles, a competitor shoots at one target that comes out at random angles. During Doubles, the competitor shoots at two targets that come out at exactly the same spot each time (wind permitting). Handicap is basically just Singles, only you are pulled further back depending on how good you are. During the 6 days, approximately 160 trapshooters came to Raton, including people from Colorado, Arizona, Texas, Florida, Oklahoma, Kansas, Iowa, California, Wyoming, Nebraska, and even New York. Even though it was the New Mexico State Shoot, people from all over the country came to compete with and against us for points on the national level. Over 120,000 targets were shot at with 12 gauge shotguns by both male and female competitors with ages ranging from as young as 11 to over 80 years old.

Trapshooters encourage everyone to participate in the various shooting events. The NRA Whittington Center (NRAWC) and the Raton Trap Club (RTC) also encourage anyone who is interested in participating in this sport or learning more about it, to attend the next event on August 19 and 20, at the Raton Trap Club, located on NM 64 just south of Raton. For more information on how to become a member, contact the president of RTC, David Piancino, at (575) 643-5594 or the NRA Whittington Center at (800) 494-4853.

Frito Banditos Car Show

June 3, 2023

A car show gives the public the opportunity to enjoy a variety of beautiful machines that may bring back memories of days gone by. Although today’s automobiles’ styles and looks have blurred, the cars on display at the Fritos Banditos car lot on Saturday, June 3, 2023, gave the public an idea of the unique look of the various models of cars that lasted for decades.

This inaugural car show sponsored by Jag’s Fritos Banditos, located at 1012 South 2nd Street, will be an annual event that owner Jag knows will grow each year. Saturday’s car show hosted eleven cars with three of them earning a trophy and cash prizes for first, second, and third place. Earning the first place trophy and a $100.00 pay-out was a 1968 Chevy Camaro owned by Bob Fernandez. Second place trophy and cash prize of $60.00 was given to Johnny Martinez for his 1956 Chevy Sedan, and third place of a trophy and $20.00 went to Tanya Hooper with her 1957 Ford Fairlane.

Family Pass Available at Local Libraries

Information provided by Angie Manfredi

Happy summer! New Mexico residents I realize many of you don’t know that if you visit your local public library you can check out – for free – a New Mexico Family Pass! A Family Pass gives up to six people FREE admission to 7 historic sites and 8 museums across the state. 6 of you, for free, to say the Museum of International Folk Art or the Bosque Redondo Memorial, which is an amazing site. All you have to do is go check one out from your public library. You can find out more about the pass here: https://nmstatelibrary.org/services-for-new-mexico-libraries/programs-and-services/new-mexico-familypass/?fbclid=IwAR3vZq49alO3jHTEJ3YmuK12ZnvctqLmMSB8lzWJSZPN2WEQuD9wzfrvnCA

Democratic Party of Colfax County Meeting

The Democratic Party of Colfax County will meet on Saturday, June 17th from 2 to 4 pm at Casa Lemus Restaurant (350 Clayton Road; Raton, NM 87740)
For more information email colfaxcountydemocrats@gmail.com.
The group will be voting on a strategy and funding to guide the Democratic Party of Colfax County through the 2024 elections. 

Raton High School graduates 49 seniors in Class of 2023

By Leonore Barfield May 23, 2023

Raton High School in Raton, New Mexico, celebrated the graduation of 49 seniors in the Class of 2023 on Friday, May 19, 2023. The commencement ceremony took place at Tiger Gymnasium, where the graduates received their diplomas and accolades in front of a packed house of family, friends, and faculty.

The ceremony featured speeches by Valedictorian Cayden Walton, Salutatorian Anderson Weese, and keynote speaker Brian Colon, the New Mexico State Auditor. Walton spoke of the importance of failure as a learning opportunity and a stepping stone to success. He also expressed his gratitude to everyone who supported him and his classmates throughout their high school journey.

Weese reflected on the history and memories that the Class of 2023 made as the last class to attend both Kearny and Columbian schools and the second 7th grade class to attend the high school. He also encouraged his fellow graduates to make wise choices and pursue their passions in life. Colon shared his personal story of overcoming adversity and achieving his dreams. He also urged the graduates to value every moment and make a positive difference in the world. He encouraged the students to have a heart for service to each other .

The graduates were recognized for their academic achievements, extracurricular activities, and community service. They also received various awards and scholarships totaling more than $622,000. Some of the graduates plan to attend college, vocational school while others will join the workforce or the military.

The ceremony concluded with the traditional tossing of the caps and a rendition of the school’s alma mater player by the school band . The graduates hugged their friends and family members, celebrating their accomplishment and looking forward to their future adventures.

Raton High School is part of the Raton Public Schools District and serves grades 7-12 under the Direction of Kristie Medina as the School Superintendent and Olga Neurauter as the High school Principal.
It is home of the Fighting Tigers….Go Tigers!