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August 2006

Turquoise Trail Association Newsletter

HURRAY....WE DID IT!

This newsletter is the last item to complete our work on our Byways Grant! It started with our Turquoise Trail Association members, Carla Ward and Larry Valtelhas, completing the application process in 2001 and submitting it to the Federal Highway Administration in February 2002. On April 16, 2003, Carla received a call that we had been awarded the $31,105 National Scenic Byways Seed Grant! This began the process of updating our 1999 Corridor Management Plan and educating our Turquoise Trail National Scenic Byway stakeholders about the byway. We have completed this process. Our updated 2006 Corridor Management Plan can now be viewed by going to www.turquoisetrail.org.

A REVIEW OF OUR SIX STAKEHOLDER EDUCATIONAL MEETINGS

Our vision statement for the TTNSB is "To achieve an environmentally clean scenic corridor with managed growth and have the ability to provide travelers with an interesting, educational, recreational, cultural, historic and natural experience.” I think we touched on all these aspects with the topics and guest speakers we had at our public educational meetings.

Meeting one was held April 6, 2005, at the Enchanted Cafe on 1st in Cerrillos. Sixty of our stakeholders were thoroughly entertained and educated by historian and author Bill Baxter about the history of Cerrillos and the surrounding mining area. Bill lived up to his reputation as the "most knowledgeable resident in these parts.” I think everyone left that meeting knowing much more about the Cerrillos Hills Historic Park and the Santa Fe Botanical Garden's Ortiz Mountain Educational Preserve, both located on the Turquoise Trail.

For meeting two, we partnered with Talking Talons Youth Leadership on June 25, 2005. Twenty-three people met at the San Pedro Creek educational site for a nature hike and lecture. Talking Talons is currently using a Fish & Wildlife Grant for education and conservation on a restoration project with the focus on a healthy streambed on this section of San Pedro Creek on the Campbell Ranch. While hiking along the creek, we were told about the plants, animals, streambed and nearby ruins. And we were able to stop and observe four great horned owls as they watched us and flew from their cliffside nests to the nearby treetops!

We had a bevy of interesting guests for meeting three held September 27, 2005, at the Engine House Theatre in Madrid. John Kretzman and Lloyd Miola were there representing NM Mining and Minerals Abandoned Mines Program. John spoke on safeguarding and reclamation projects done in the Turquoise Trail area and of future local projects on their agenda. Lloyd gave a wonderful slide presentation on the Madrid, Ortiz Mountains and Cerrillos Hills projects. I don't think any of the 22 stakeholders in attendance realized how important these projects are to our historic mining district.

Dave Simon from NM State Parks Division gave us our first inkling that there would be public meetings to discuss the pros and cons of the state acquiring the Cerrillos Hills Historic Park from Santa Fe County.

The Cerrillos "Breakfast Club" was represented by Annie Whitney. She explained how this once-a-month potluck got started to share information about all aspects of moving to and building in this area, including "off-the-grid" solutions.
Followed by Bruce McIntosh's eye-opening slide show presentation of he and his wife Nancy's life in an "off-the-grid" solar home outside of Madrid. They've got solar living down and give us lots of hope for the future.

Meeting four was held on the snowy morning of November 12, 2005, at the top of the Sandia Crest at the Sandia Crest House. Our guest was none other than Bob Julyan, author of the books,"Field Guide to the Sandia Mountains" and the just released "Mountains of New Mexico.” It was a small gathering of five that listened intently as Bob described the two sites of orbicular granite in the Sandias. And the "great unconformity" where 1.4 billion-year-old Sandia granite is found beneath 300 million-year-old limestone! He also spoke of the plants, insects and birds as we watched the Crest House's patio birdfeeders for a spotting of a Rosy Finch, who winter in the Sandias from their Arctic habitat.

Our annual Turquoise Trail Association meeting January 12, 2006, also doubled as meeting five. Our byway goddess, Laurie Frantz, announced that her job of Byway Coordinator for the 26 byways in New Mexico had been moved from the Department of Transportation to NM Tourism. She discussed the National Scenic Byway program and explained the financial and opportunity benefits of being part of Tourism. Sharon Berg, founder of our sister organization, Turquoise Trail Preservation Trust, brought us up-to-date on the fight against the proposed gravel operation at the corner of Hwy. 14 and 344. And Mike Maynard from Certified Folder explained how his company distributes our Turquoise Trail brochure throughout New Mexico.

Our final public educational meeting, number six, was held April 12, 2006. The US Forest Service hosted at the Cibola National Forest Sandia Ranger District office in Tijeras. We were urged to arrive early and take the self-guided tour and then treated to a lecture about the Tijeras Pueblo Archaeological Site, which is located right behind the Ranger Station along with the Tijeras Pueblo Educational Center. Conducting the "history of the Pueblo" presentation were Nancy Woodward and Andy Rutkiewig from the Friends of the Pueblo organization. I urge everyone to go learn about and visit this 1313 A.D. 200-room pueblo that once dominated the landscape at the south end of the Turquoise Trail.

AND SOME OF US GOT TO TRAVEL

To attend the 2005 National Scenic Byways Conference that is! Yes, through the grant we were able to send members Larry Valtelhas, Diana Johnson and Mary Ann Graziano to attend this conference in Cleveland, Ohio October 16-19, 2005. The attendees heard a number of key-note speakers and attended byway-related workshops. But as Larry reported "I believe meeting with other byway people is the most important part of a convention.” And they got to go to the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame!

In November of 2004, Carla Ward went to Buffalo, New York to attend a byway workshop hosted by Seaway Trail on "Sustainability of the Byways.” Her input was valued as our byway is one of a handful in the country run entirely by volunteers with no paid staff. While most byways have an ongoing source of funding, Turquoise Trail relies on membership to sustain it and we are doing a great job! In fact the Federal office of Scenic America has chosen Turquoise Trail to host a Scenic Conservation Workshop in May or June of 2007 to address the issues we face with development along the Turquoise Trail including the proposed gravel operation.

July 18, 2006 Larry Valtelhas and Lynn McLane attended a one-day New Mexico Byways Workshop in Mountainair, New Mexico. Laurie Frantz, our NM Byway Coordinator, had brought in Dennis Adams and Curt Pianalto from the Federal Highway Administration. We spent a fun day learning about byway marketing, interpretation, wayshowing and navigation. All good info we can continue to use on our Turquoise Trail National Scenic Byway!

Once again, our purpose was to educate the public about our byway and to continue to update our Corridor Management Plan. Please don't hesitate to contact us with your questions, concerns and input for a better future.

Happy Trails,
Lynn McLane
President
Turquoise Trail National Scenic Byway

Special thanks to Carla Ward, Larry Valtelhas, Diana Johnson, Patricia Brown and Mary Ann Graziano for completing the necessary work on this grant.

For more information about the Turquoise Trail, visit our website at turquoisetrail.org or bywaysonline.org

Turquoise Trail National Scenic Byway
P.O. Box 303
Sandia Park, NM 87047
Phone: 888-263-0003
505-438-8711
505-281-5233

 


April 2006

Turquoise Trail Association Newsletter

January TTA Meeting

Thanks to all of you who attended our annual January meeting.

Laurie Frantz, spoke about her new position. She has been moved from the Department of Transportation to Byway Coordinator of Tourism for New Mexico. For the TTA this move is a great benefit, she has been a long time friend to the association.

Sharon Berg brought us up to date on the work the Turquoise Tail Preservation Trust is doing and the fight against the proposed San Pedro gravel pit.

Mike Maynard spoke about his company and the distribution of the 2006 TTA brochure.

Last Byway Meeting

Join us at the last of the series of Byway meetings for residents who wish to learn more about the Turquoise Trail.

We would like input from you. Did you enjoy our series? Would you like it to continue? Do you have other concerns about the Trail? Your information and participation will help the TTA fulfill the 2003 Grant that provided us with funds to update the National Scenic Byway “Corridor Management Plan” that was completed in 1999.

As the area from Santa Fe to Tijeras grows, it is essential that local businesses and homeowners join together to protect and manage our National Scenic Byway. We need new members to help in updating our TTA Plan!

Cibola National Forest in Tijeras

On Wednesday April 12, at 6pm the second TTA Quarterly meeting will be held at the National Forest Visitor Center in Tijeras. Immediately following at 7pm will be the last National Scenic Byway meeting.

There will be a guest speaker who has extensive knowledge of the Tijeras Pueblo. The pueblo Educational Center is located in the scenic area directly behind the Ranger Station.
Those who arrive early will still have time for a Self-Guided tour of the pueblo.

There will be refreshments provided for your enjoyment, NO POT LUCK.

Since this is the last of the byway meetings and corridor management update, we hope to have a full house!

Cibola Boundaries

The Cibola National Forest is a collection of mountain ranges scattered east and south of Albuquerque. They continue west to the state's border with Arizona.

The San Mateo Mountains northeast of Grants, New Mexico and the Zuni Mountains west of Grants are the most western mountains of the Cibola National Forest.

Mt. Taylor, rising 11,301 feet is the best known mountain in the area.

Surrounding the community of Magdalena in the central part of New Mexico, are the Magdalena, San Mateo, Bear, Gallinas, Datil, Crosby and Sawtooth Mountains.

The Manzano Mountains and the Sandia Mountains which are southeast and east of Albuquerque complete the mountain ranges of the Cibola.

Sandia Crest, at 10,678 ft. in elevation, towers above Albuquerque. It is the most popular mountain of the Cibola National Forest.

The Cibola National Forest is a collection of mountain ranges scattered east and south of Albuquerque. They continue west to the state’s border with Arizona.

Sandia Ranger District

The Tijeras Pueblo Rediscovered!

The Tijeras Pueblo first captured the attention of archaeologists in 1930, when H.P. Mera collected ceramics for study and made the first map of the ruins. A year later, W.S. Stallings began collecting tree ring samples from the main mound. These samples helped date the site to the 1300’s.

In 1948, the University of New Mexico investigated the main mound. Six student notebooks documented the work carried out there under the direction of Stanley Stubbs and Fred Wendorf.

The University of New Mexico Archaeological Field School returned to the Tijeras Pueblo to conduct extensive excavations from 1971 to 1976.

Led by James Judge and Linda Cordell, the focus of research went far beyond finding out what was beneath the mounds of rubble.

An archaeological survey of Tijeras Canyon was also conducted. Using new research techniques, archaeologists were able to describe the climate and other environmental conditions during the 14th century.

Today, a large mound is the only visible evidence of the 200-room pueblo that once dominated the landscape. After excavation the rooms were re-buried, or backfilled to protect the site from destruction by wind, rain and other forces.

Illustrated trail signs, scale models, and your imagination bring the pueblo to life. Our Education Center features hands-on activities and programs related to the pueblo culture.

For more information about the pueblo visit “Friends of the Tijeras Pueblo" at www.friendsoftijeraspueblo.org/ pages/1/index.htm

Wilderness Country

The Cibola National Forest has four classified wilderness areas.

The Sandia Mountains Wilderness is located just east of Albuquerque in the Sandia Mountains and covers 37,232 acres. The Manzano Mountain Wilderness lies 30 miles southeast of Albuquerque in the Manzano Mountains and covers 36,400 acres.

The Apache Kid Wilderness encompasses 44,650 acres in the national forest approximately 50 miles southwest of Socorro. The 19,000 acre Withington Wilderness is located about 35 miles southwest from the Socorro area.

In addition to these classified wilderness areas, there are many other areas that offer solitude and enjoyable backpacking opportunities-particularly the crest trails on the Magdalena and Mt. Taylor range districts.

Our Mission “Caring for the Land and Serving People.”

This involves taking care of the land while making the forest resources available to all “shareholders.” Resources include high quality water, wilderness and outdoor recreation; quality habitat for many plants and animals, wood for paper, homes and hundreds of other uses; forage for wildlife and livestock, and source of minerals.

For More Information
Sandia Ranger District
11776 Highway 337
Tijeras, New Mexico 87059
(505) 281-3304

** In a press release on March 14, 2006, U.S. Sen. Pete Domenici announced Northern New Mexico's scenic roads will get money this year from the U.S. Department of Transportation.The Madrid Cultural Projects will receive about $84,100 to build a public restroom, parking and an outdoor display for the Turquoise Trail National Scenic Byway.


March 2006

Turquoise Trail Association Newsletter


The Turquoise Trail Gang at the 2005 Governor's Conference

The 2005 New Mexico Governor's Conference on Tourism was held on October 30 to November 1 at the beautiful Hyatt Regency Tamaya Resort & Spa in Bernalillo, New Mexico. Sponsored by the Tourism Association of New Mexico (TANM), this year's theme was "Turning Our Past into Our Future." As always, the mission of the conference is to strengthen the state's tourism industry through partnerships and education. And this year, to remind us that our culture and heritage are what makes us unique, Carla Ward, Lynn McLane, Patricia & Todd Brown, Hugh Hacket, Todd Klippenstein and Mary Ann Graziano had the pleasure of representing the Turquoise Trail National Scenic Byway at this year's conference.

Day One

Carla was only able to attend the Governor's Conference on Tourism the first day. Being a member of the Regional Marketing Board, she attended their board meeting as well as the TANM Board meeting. She reports also attending the evening's welcoming reception where she had the opportunity to meet and network with our Tourism Partners, Laurie Frantz, Scenic Byways Program Manager at the New Mexico Department of Tourism; Bill Hersfeld, newest Tourism Commissioner from Ruidoso; and Donna Wylie from Sandoval County.

Day Two

The rest of us arrived bright and early October 31 for a full day of conference activities. Here are highlights of that day. Following a beautiful opening ceremony, there was a general session with speaker Roger Dow. Mr. Dow is President & CEO of Travel Industry Association of America. His passionate and entertaining talk on "The Power of Travel" spoke of "the unique opportunity the travel industry has to lead the nation's efforts to improve our image around the world". We then had to choose between three interesting breakout sessions. Lynn chose Senator Dede Feldman's "Using Public Relations to Increase Tourism in Your Community." Speaking as owner of her own public relations firm, she explained how one must earn media coverage, but that PR can be a "bigger bang for your buck" rather than paying for advertising. When seeking PR she stressed knowing what and who your target audience is and supplying photos, map, events calendar, press release, background on the area and report on a quirky thing. Focus on your strengths and unique history and assets. It's great to utilize "the arts" and do some historical research and come up with something you can build an event around.

Mary Ann briefly went to "New Mexico Firsts" where she learned about New Mexico supplying the National Christmas tree and the Tournament of Roses Parade float. And how each month Albuquerque will have a different theme to celebrate its historic 300th birthday. She then joined the rest of our group in "Marketing to New Mexicans". (Lynn also attended this as her second breakout session.)

I could do an entire newsletter on this interesting PowerPoint presentation put together by Martin Leger, Advertising Manager for the NM Department of Tourism, and Cheri Kofakis, VP/Media Director from Rick Johnson & Co., the firm that produces the advertising campaigns for NM Department of Tourism. New Mexico travelers were defined by asking the questions: who are we; where do we live; when do we travel; and what do we do? Using the 2000 census they came up with these answers

In conclusion, they sited as draws outdoor recreation, historic sites, State & National Parks, and rural sight seeing. With other opportunities being festivals, arts, museums and galleries.

As Patricia Brown reports, "they then delved into a variety of advertising options: Television, cable, radio, newspaper, magazine, internet, direct mail and a slew of ideas that ranged from benches, bus backs, billboards, soda cups, bar napkins, coasters and ski lifts. They touched on the recent NMDT 13 week in-state advertising campaign and gave a sample of what you could get with a $100,000 budget."

For the second trio of break out sessions, we all scattered. Patricia went to "Cooperative Marketing Best Practices." The presentation was by NMDT's cooperative marketing manager, Mona Medina. As part of the annual application process to receive coop advertising funds from NMDT, Pat has attended Mona's presentations in Santa Fe the last 3 years. Even though she was familiar with the material, Pat submitted the following report from the conference: "Cooperative marketing was initiated to complement our marketing efforts. Market New Mexico as a destination, be comprehensive and know your plan. Be excited. Your market starts 50 miles away. Know the traveler's age groups and special interests. When reaching a target market using media, follow tracking. If you bring in a partnership, you need to show who provides what. Be clear on partnering goals. Positive factors are clearly stated goals, simple and logical communications and partnerships that demonstrate a collaborative approach."

All the Turquoise Trail National Byway people were able to sit together at lunch. While enjoying the culinary delights of Tamaya Resort, we listened to the next general session presentation by Hal Rothman, Ph.D., University of Nevada speaking on "The Tourism of Culture, the Culture of Tourism: New Mexico and 21st Century Travel." Truly the only memorable tidbit I came away from this lecture with was the knowledge a tourist to Madrid was going to be upset about not having cell phone service.

At this point some of our group left, others went back to the interesting trade-show room to browse all the different publications booths and the Browns and I went to the afternoon break out session of "Building Cultural Communities--Reaping Economic & Quality of Life Benefits." This panel discussion had lots of audience participation. New Mexico is a perfect destination for the cultural tourist. Many people shared how their communities have invested in cultural events, like arts and music festivals, and cultural attractions, like museums and historic buildings. It was pointed out how these communities reap the monetary and quality-of-life benefits. It was stressed that innovation and creativity are the new currency and how we should invest in new ideas! We should identify our assets and create events around them. And community buy-in and participation is essential. In New Mexico it's been determined that the #1 thing our cultural tourists desire is an "authentic Southwest experience!"

That concluded Day Two's work part of the conference. We then heard Governor Bill Richardson speak on his vision of a commuter rail to connect Santa Fe and Albuquerque (which may run right along our Byway) and how state tourism will be boosted by getting more film companies to make their movies here. (A plan Madrid is about to experience firsthand). This was followed by a couple of hours of meeting new and old friends at the "Stay Connected Reception." After which all of our people left but myself and Todd Klippenstein. We went our separate ways and joined new friends for the evening's sumptuous banquet and Hall of Fame awards presentation.

Day Three

Day Three ended at noon, but started early with Todd & Patricia Brown, Todd Klippenstein and myself returning for breakfast and the presentation of the NM Department of Tourism by Cabinet Secretary Michael Cerletti. We were given a booklet listing the Department members and their duties. And shown a video of some of the advertisements they produced this last year and told about New Mexico's first ever Rose Parade float.

I think I speak for all of us attendees when I say it was a fun, educational event held in a most beautiful facility. It was an honor to represent the Turquoise Trail National Scenic Byway and I hope I have the pleasure of doing so again at next year's Ruidoso-held Governors Conference on Tourism.

Happy Trails,

Lynn McLane
President,
Turquoise Trail National Scenic Byway

For more information about the Turquoise Trail, visit our website at turquoisetrail.org or call 1 (888) 263-0003

Post Office Box 303
Sandia Park, NM 87047


January 2006

Turquoise Trail Association Newsletter

A very Happy New Year to all members of the Turquoise Trail Association. Whether you’re a first year or our long time member. We are excited you’re a part of Turquoise Trail.

The year’s first general meeting and election of officers will be held January 11, 2006 at Hideaway Grill & Market, 11 a.m. This is a luncheon meeting and we will order off the menu. The Hideaway is an easy to find location on Highway 14 - across from Lone Butte General Store, south of the intersection of 14 and 45/44.

It will be a nice time to meet our new members and renew friendships made along the trail.

AGENDA

Immediately followed by a meeting of the Board.

A Thank you to all past elected officials and board members for your contributions and volunteer hours! Many of you have served double time on the few committees necessary for the business aspect of the Association; attended conferences and hosted our general meetings. There are new ideas and plenty of places for you to volunteer this year. Make a commitment to help out!

TTA Mission Statement: adopted March 1999
To achieve an environmentally clean, scenic corridor with managed growth and have the ability to provide travelers with an interesting, educational, recreational, cultural, historic, and natural experience.

Madrid Christmas Parade
The annual Christmas festivities in Madrid, New Mexico began with the parade along Main Street, Dec 3rd. Kira and Patricia led the jovial procession, tossing out turquoise and gold painted gravel from this brightly decorated Geo convertible. Importantly this was the first use of a Turquoise Trail banner in a parade!

Our New Members: We are proud to have many new full membership partners, some with multiple listings. Here they are………
TIJERAS - Molly’s Bar and Nature Pointe Communities.
MADRID - Madrid Casita & Michael Austin Wright Studio, Creative Mortgage & Stoneridge Realty Madrid, Spirit in Art, Gypsy Plaza, Tumbleweeds, Gypsy Gem, Paul Olsen Gallery, Cowgirl Red.
CERRILLOS – Ortiz Mountain Gallery & Workshop.
LONE BUTTE – Hideaway Grill & Market
TOP OF THE TRAIL – Santa Fe Brewing Company Pub & Grill. Our First get-together of 2006 is the annual meeting, January 11th.

Turquoise Trail Association is an all-volunteer association formed in 1983. Managed by a group of small businesses and attractions to promote our unique area. The governing structure consists of a President, Vice President, Secretary, Treasurer and 13 Board members. TTA income comes from membership fees, co-op funds from the state, cost share agreement with the National Forest (not annual), Scenic Byway Seed Grant and fund raising. A few of the TTA expenses are its brochure costs and distribution. A partnership with Heart of New Mexico and memberships to Albuquerque Convention and Visitor Bureau, Santa Fe Chamber of Commerce, and Tour Association of New Mexico. An annual ad in NM Vacation Planner, 888 number and website maintenance. (I’m sure there are more!)

Laurie Frantz has been invited from New Mexico Tourism Department (NMTD) to be our guest speaker at the January 11th annual meeting. Her position as Scenic Byway & Regional Marketing Coordinator is a great asset for all 26 State Byways and she is very familiar with our Turquoise Trail National Scenic Byway. Lets see if we can get some more FAM Tours out on the Turquoise Trail!

Podcast Services
Larry Valtelhas will be offering podcast services in 2006. If anyone has any interest in learning about podcasts and their potential for your business, Larry will prepare a handout and give a short lecture at one of our 2006 meetings. Please contact Larry at 505-286-8632 or lfv@i2001.com or just let one of our board members know you want to learn about this new technology.

FYI - visit turquoisetrail.org
Any information found in the Turquoise Trail brochure is also found on our website listed above! BUT there is so much more. On the website you can find even more information, a media page, more photos, and the brochure in 4 foreign languages. Click on NSB for National Scenic Byway information and the CMP currently being updated through a 2003 Federal Byway Grant. The membership list is there and links to all the businesses that have websites. Become familiar with our website, give it to your visitors, use it, it’s a great tool.

I had a great time researching new members restaurant websites. Santa Fe Brewing Company, at the Top of the Trail, has music scheduled many nights and a brewery tour by appointment. Open breakfast, lunch and dinner. Brewing is on site, with distribution around the state and plans to take it nationally.

Molly’s Bar has joined from the southern tip. They also have music most weekends and are a long operating establishment at the junction of Turquoise Trail where old Rt 66 & I-40 meet. Romeo Jr and his wife Diane state ‘the greatest people on earth walk through this door.’ Many music events can be held open-air and nearby Trail Rider Pizza also serves sandwiches.

Hideaway Grill & Market has opened at Lone Butte, just above the middle of the trail. Jerry is famously known for being the pastry chef at Tesuque Market, another family business. Since moving to the turquoise trail area, he and his wife Cat decided to work closer to home. Open breakfast, lunch and dinner. This is where we will hold the annual meeting.

Check out websites to all our member businesses listed in the upcoming 2006 brochure! A little history: membership notices were sent out October 1, 2005. Many were returned before the Nov 1st deadline. Others needed some prompting but soon got to the necessary paper work. We still were making calls into December; and the last check came in Dec 12. Needless to say, please get to it quicker! We all need a Nov 1st deadline and much less stress during the winter holidays.

Megan Ward tackled the brochure changes using her copyediting magic and sent it to the printer. We have ordered 150,000 brochures and can expect them at the annual meeting.

Thanks to you each of you membership coordinators and brochure editors who are terrific volunteers!!

Minutes - Unapproved Minutes from the October 12, 2005 Turquoise Trail Association Meeting

HOST: Diana Johnson at Johnsons of Madrid. Attending: Diana Johnson, Lynn McLane, Carla Ward, Patricia Brown, Marianna Hatten, Mary Ann Graziano & Paul Ureche, Larry Valtelhas, Richard & Helen Boyce.
QUOTA! 7 board members attended.

The general meeting was called to order at 6:45 pm following another excellent and delicious potluck supper, introductions and brags. You all should have been there!

Larry, seconded by Carla, approved minutes read from the July 13, 2005 meeting.

It was suggested that Diana take 15 videos with the 3-minute segments produced by TTA members, to the National Scenic Byways Convention held in Cleveland, OH. Participants to this years conference are Diana Johnson, Vice President, Mary Ann Graziano, board member, and Larry Valtelhas, member.

Patricia Brown suggested mailing 10 tapes to the NM state welcome centers and will do so. 13 tapes remain.

Treasurers Report-Carla: There is $4,179.00 (combined figures) in checking and savings accounts. The 2006 membership renewals have been sent out. Federal Grant invoices have been sent for the quarter. The treasurer’s report was approved by Patricia and seconded by Marianna.

Lynn, Carla, Mary Ann, Todd & Patricia are signed up to go to the 2005 NM Governors Conference on Tourism, to be held at the Santa Ana Tamaya Hyatt Regency, October 30, 31 & November 1, 2005. Note: Members Todd Klippenstein & Hugh Hackett also went. What a great team! *The next newsletter will bring notes from the conference to your mailbox.

Membership committee-Lynn
Membership renewal has begun and new member recruiting is through the month of October. Lynn is canvassing Madrid. Pat will look from Cerrillos, north. Carla will check with the businesses in the new grocery store complex.

Marianna suggested looking at tripadvisor.com for area reviews.

Nominating committee: There will be 2 board openings. Member suggestions were Sharon Berg & Dana Gannett (San Pedro estates). Lynn will send out a broadcast email for candidates interested in an executive or board position.

Several locations were suggested for the January 11th, meeting. Hideaway Café, San Pedro Overlook clubhouse, Helen Boyce’s home, Santa Fe Brewing Company, National forest visitor center. I’m sure we will be visiting them all during our 4 get-togethers in the New Year.

NEW HIGHWAY for Scenic Byway. Many of you are painfully aware of the highway construction going on in the 8-mile stretch between Cerrillos, and Lone Butte. For complete project information visit

https://dot.state.nm.us

Click on NMDOT Projects, then NM14. To be included in the weekly project update via email, contact Karyn Lujan, Dist 5 PIO at karyn.lujan@state.nm.us or 827-9567.

Turquoise Trail has gone through a recent highway construction project between Cerrillos, 3 miles south to Madrid. Alignment adjustments, shoulder improvements, signage and pull-offs are all in place. Crews did a great job!

San Pedro update: BLM has tabled the recent gravel-mining proposal and will wait on a decision until completing a reevaluation of the area. There will be meetings scheduled to gain input from the community. TTA will send a broadcast email. Also south of Golden, County Rd 344, including “heartbreak hill” is currently being marked for major road construction, to begin in the spring.

? Notice new construction
north of hwy 599 & Hwy 14 leading into Santa Fe?

Construction is about to start on a new Forest Service Office building across the road will be 200 new homes. Turquoise Trail communities will contain a small open space, no entrance on hwy 14. Construction includes additional warehouses to the Turquoise Trail business park Sorry, No change to the existing bottleneck where 4 lanes change to 2 at the bridge.

Another highway with construction is hwy 333, old route 66, before the intersection with NM 14. Any comment? Bring it to the meeting.

THINK SNOW
AND BRING
ON THE TOURISTS!
By GOLLY (Rex Borough)

HAPPY 
   TURQUOISE
        TRAILS 
             EVERYONE 
   
   Patricia Brown 
   Casa Grande Trading Post
   Cerrillos, New Mexico 

November 2005

TTA Byway: Fourth Meeting

This is the fourth of the series of six byway meetings for residents who wish to learn more about the Turquoise Trail.

We would like input from you. Are you enjoying our series? Would you like it to continue? Do you have other concerns about the Trail?

This information will help the TTA fulfill the 2003 Grant that provides us with funds to update the National Scenic byway "Corridor Management Plan" that was completed in 1999.

As the area from Santa Fe to Tijeras grows, it is essential that local businesses and homeowners join together to protect and manage our National Scenic Byway.

We need new members to help in updating our TTA Plan!

Join Us at The Sandia Crest House on November 12

Join us on Saturday November 12, 11 am at the Sandia Crest House, located on the very top of the Sandia Mountains!

Author Robert Julyan will be there discussing his latest book entitled: Field Guide to the Sandia Mountains.

He along with several others, have created this very informative field guide about geology, flora, fauna etc. of the entire area surrounding the Sandia's.

Bob writes: "The history of the Sandia's is most phenomenal and unique!"

Some of his other books are The Place Names of New Mexico and coming in 2006 from UNM Press: The Mountains of New Mexico.

"for the approximately seven hundred thousand New Mexican's who live within thirty miles of the mountains approximately one third of the state's total population-the range serves as a friendly wild backyard, one they visit often."

Each year more than two million visitors take advantage of the mountains' easy access!

The Sandia Crest is a mile above the surrounding countryside and 2 miles above sea level. The all-weather, paved Sandia Crest Highway is NM 536, off Hwy 14. It is the highest scenic drive in the southwest (10,678 ft. up).

The Sandia mountains were created by an uplift, leaving the forested eastern slope you drive up, with a craggy, cliff-like western face. As part of the Cibola National Forest, the Sandias are home to Rocky Mountain bighorn sheep, mule deer, black bear, many other mammals and birds-including golden eagles!

To experience some of the many moods of the Crest, we recommend an afternoon hike along the trails.

Stay to enjoy the sunset-sometimes it is spectacular. Or, the night view of the city lights, and starry sky is incredible!


September 2005

San Pedro Creek

Young and old arrived on Saturday morning June 25 at San Pedro Creek for a hike.

The overcast day provided just enough shade for the hike along the creek.

Amy and KT of Talking Talons, lectured on plants, animals, streambed and nearby ruins. We passed four great-horned owls.

After the hike, our guides brought a great-horned owl, red tailed hawk, and bull snake for us to enjoy.

The TTA provided us with cold drinks. The session ended at about 11:30 am.

TTA Byway: Third Meeting

This is the third of the 6 byway meetings for residents who wish to learn more about the Turquoise Trail.

We would like input from you. Are you enjoying our series? Would you like it to continue? Do you have other concerns about the Trail?

This information will help the TTA fulfill the 2003 Grant that provides us with funds to update the National Scenic byway "Corridor Management Plan" that was completed in 1999.

As the area from Santa Fe to Tijeras grows, it is essential that local businesses and homeowners join together to protect and manage our National Scenic Byway. We need new members to help in updating our TTA Plan!

Join Us in Madrid at the Theatre in September

Join us on Tuesday, Sept. 27 at 7 pm in the historical Engine House Theatre.

There will be several speakers giving us information about the past, present, & future of the area.

Owners Cliff & Ede Cato will tell us about the history of the theatre as well as the adventures of running a melodrama including the Old West Photography studio, tavern and museum.

A representative will join us from the New Mexico Mineral & Natural Resources Dept. to talk about the reclamation plans for Madrid, Cerrillos Hills Park, and other coal mining areas nearby.

The Local Breakfast Club (which has 180 members and still growing) will also be making some presentations.

Many live "off-the-grid" and are coping with energy problems and solutions. What will be our main energy source for the future? Their unusual ideas may be of interest to you!

Join us for a great time. Learn new information about your surrounding area!

Get to meet old friends and neighbors and make some new friends!

Remember, mark that date, Tuesday September 27 at 7 pm.

Refreshments will be served!

Where did the Engine House Get its Name?

That's an interesting story....believe it or not the theatre is the original building where the trains stopped to load up on coal and have the locomotive repaired or painted or what ever else it may have needed.

The locomotive that is parked just outside the theatre is the last one that went through Madrid in 1959. It is sitting on the original track which runs right through the middle of the theater.

This locomotive is positioned so that it is nosing onto the middle of the stage. It is often used to "run over" the Hero or Heroine tied to the railroad tracks, during special scenes in the melodrama.

History of the Melodrama

Madrid Melodrama was created to preserve a very important piece of theater history by presenting classic style performances of Virtue vs. Villainy. Melodrama was first developed in the 1700's in France--was perfected in England and came to the US in the early 1800's where it received instant popularity on "showboats" along the Mississippi and in the mining towns of the Old West known as "traveling shows." The action was big enough and the storyline simple enough to be understood by all. Audience participation was allowed. The underscoring of the action with the piano accompaniment became such a popular way of presenting a production that it even carried into the silent movie era.


June 2005

April Meeting a Huge Success

The first byway meeting held at the Enchanted Café in Cerrillos on April 6 was a delightful success! Well over 50 local residents joined us for an exciting evening of food, fun and information.

The highlight of the evening was of course Bill Baxter. He presented a local view of the history of Cerrillos, way back when turquoise was first being mined. His humorous anecdotes kept things moving. He is quoted as saying “ over a glass of beer, competitors of the mines told tall stories about how well they were doing. After more and more beer the tales got taller and taller.” Listeners close by would take this as the “gospel” and print it!”

The evening ended with lots of local information. Socializing continued for quite a while after the meeting.

The Turquoise Trail Association would like to thank all those who attended. It would not have been a success without your support!

Next Site for Byway Meeting on Saturday Morning June 25, 2005.

San Pedro Creek

This is the second of the 6 Byway meetings for residents who wish to learn more about the Turquoise Trail. We would like input from you concerning the Trail. This information will help the TTA fulfill the 2003 Grant that provides us with funds to update the National Scenic Byway “Corridor Management Plan” that was completed in 1999.

Hopefully, there will be folks who would like to volunteer and help us have an effect on the promotion of preservation or change. We need residents to help the TTA update the “Plan” and become TTA members.

On June 25 at 9am, join us for our Byway feature! We will be hiking along the beautiful San Pedro Creek!
The creek is the educational site for the Talking Talons. The hike will begin with an introduction from the foundation. There will be professional guides taking us to the most interesting areas, to answer questions and give you lots of insight on this unique eco system.

The hike will last from approximately 45 minutes to an approximately 45 minutes to an hour. You will see some amazing sights along the trail. You may catch a glimpse of wild birds, falcons, hawks, and owls! The walk will be an unforgettable experience! Afterwards, you will meet some of the birds in person. Bring your camera! You will need to wear walking shoes. Bring your sunscreen, sunglasses and maybe a hat.You may bring water, but water will be provided by the TTA.

Don’t forget the date: June 25 at 9am. We will meet you on the east side of Hwy 14 after the South Paako entrance. We will be waiting for you!

Join Us!

Talking Talons Youth Leadership

Talking Talons Youth Leadership is a community based nonprofit organization. Located in Tijeras, New Mexico. They reach out to communities along the Turquoise Tail between Tijeras and Santa Fe, as well as Bernalillo, Sandoval, Torrance and Valencia counties.

There are several Talking Talons in the west but in New Mexico Talking Talons is unique! Since 1988 it has been connecting Youth with rehabilitating wildlife, which includes hawks, falcons and owls.

Talking Talons is about helping to teach children to make healthy choices in their life by learning to keep our animals healthy and safe, so we can enjoy them now and especially in the future. Today's children will become the adults who will make a difference for us!

The program provides children with information and skills they need to create a healthy environment through hands-on contact with birds and other animals. Some have suffered from habitat destruction or were intentionally shot or were put into the wild after being pets.

You can make a difference!

Become a volunteer. They are always needed to assist with animal care. Join the membership for just $35 a year and receive the newsletter, announcing events and opportunities. Become an animal sponsor a unique and special gift for family, friends or yourself.

There are presentations!

They can be arranged at your school, clubs, meetings or events for some environmental science education and a one hour close-up visit with animals. Visit the living museum to see all of the birds, bats, reptiles and more! April through November hikes are offered. They meet at the San Pedro Creek. Learn about this riparian ecosystem amidst the desert.

Youth science summer adventures

There are three 2-weeks sessions each summer that include the leadership curriculum, enhanced with art, exercise, nature hikes and more!

New Facility

A new museum is in the planning stages that will be located on 20 acres of donated land along the Turquoise Trail.

Donations

All donations are tax-deductible. Our future depends on you and your children. Help us keep what we have for our children and their children!

Call (505)281-1133
www.TalkingTalons.com
E-mail:Talons@NMIA.com
PO Box 2020
Tijeras, NM 87050


March 2005

By-Way Buzz

The Turquoise Trail Association, a non profit organization dedicated to protecting and marketing New Mexico's 65-mile Highway 14 "Turquoise Trail", a National Scenic Byway connecting Santa Fe and Albuquerque, is accepting new members for 2005.

"Growing our organization is important in order to continue the successes we have experienced," notes Lynn McLane, president. "As the area from Santa Fe south to Tijeras grows, it is essential that local businesses and homeowners join together to protect and manage our National Scenic Byway and the beautiful land it represents."

The Turquoise Trail Byway includes the communities of San Marcos, Cerrillos, Madrid, Golden, Sandia
Park, Cedar Crest and Tijeras.

The association, founded in 1984, is responsible for initially establishing Highway 14 as an official National Scenic Byway, one of 96 National Scenic Byways in the US. Since that time, the association has created effective marketing initiatives to promote and protect the trail. The organization co-markets with the Heart of New Mexico Association, the Santa Fe Chamber of Commerce, the Albuquerque Convention & Visitor Bureau and the Tourism Association of New Mexico.

"The National Scenic Byway status is extremely important to maintain," adds Ms. McLane. "Members of the association work as volunteers year-round to market our trail and enhance the natural environment we enjoy."

The Association is looking for businesses, as well as individuals, to join and support the group for 2005.
Help us maintain the beauty of New Mexico!

Call 505-281-5233

TTA Receives Grant

The Turquoise Trail Association received a grant for 2004-2006 from the Federal Highway Administration for National Scenic Byways. The funds are to be used to update our corridor management plan. This includes informing the public of the Trail and its wonders that travelers love to visit.

Starting in April there will be 6, Byway meetings open for everyone to attend informing them of the available facilities, scenic wonders and the valuable history that lives on in this area.

Each meeting will be held in a different location on the Trail. Look for the news letter to keep you informed of the speakers for the evening plus any other pertinent information. There will be refreshments and lots of other surprises!. Join us and learn new, interesting information about the Trail!

"Tall" Tales from the Trail: Cerrillos

"Turquoise mined here found it's way to the crown jewels of Spain." True or False?

It has long been told that Cerrillos turquoise found by early Spanish settlers was sent to Spain as an addition to the treasury. It is believed that the Spanish royalty incorporated the turquoise into their Crown Jewels. Some believe the Spanish stole the turquoise from the Indians to send to their king. This subject has been researched in Spain but their records show no evidence of Cerrillos turquoise.

The name of the village should properly be "Los Cerrillos." True or False?

Some people think the name of the village should be Los Cerrillos, not Cerrillos. The original Los Cerrillos was El Real de los Cerrillos, a mining camp founded in 1695 near the Bonanza Creek Ranch. An uprising in 1696 caused the mining camp to be abandoned. With the arrival of the railroad in 1880, a station was built near the Galisteo River. It needed a name. Probably Tom Catron (attorney & real estate agent) choose the name Cerrillos Station. Eventually it became Cerrillos Village as it is today. There are two current, valid Spanish land grants: Bonanza Creek Ranch & La Cienaga and the Cerrillos Land Grant & Sitio de los Cerrillos which carries the Los Cerrillos name. The location of this grant is in the area of the original mining camp!

Enchanted Café: To Host First Meeting

The Enchanted on First has opened its doors in Cerrillos. It is the site for our first Byway meeting.
On April 6 at 7pm join us for refreshments, surprises and fun!

Bill Baxter will entertain us with his humor and knowledge of the entire area called Cerrillos!"
The organic coffee and tea house & gallery have a unique, relaxing atmosphere. It is a great place for a meeting.
Finally a café intended for local residents!

Bill Baxter: "Best Antiquated Critter from These Parts"

Retired and living in San Marcos, Bill Baxter, is the most "knowledgeable resident in these parts!"
Since the late 90's he has managed the San Marcos Pueblo site for the Archaeological Conservancy. He gives guided tours of the area. His "living knowledge" and creative storytelling of the site enhances every tour.

Aside from being one of the founding members of the Cerrillos Hills Park Coalition & vice president he has lived in this area "forever."

Being a history cog in the Santa Fe Botanical Garden's Ortiz Mountains Educational Preserve has prompted him to write a book which was released last March titled: The Gold of the Ortiz Mountains, Lone Butte Press, $14.95.

Join him at the Enchanted Café on April 6 at 7pm for "real first hand history" of Cerrillos.

Some History of Cerrillos

Cerrillos Hills is a very old place. As far back as10, 500 years ago settlers were busy working in the Galisteo Basin. As early as 900 AD turquoise was already being mined in the area. Pottery with advanced designs has been dated back to 1300AD, which was the height of the population.

In 1600 the Spanish explorers and colonists, lured by tales of rich silver deposits, mined the hills for over 2 hundred years.

In the late 19th century, thousands of Anglo-American prospectors "broke their hearts and backs" working claims that rarely delivered. They were prospecting for iron, lead and silver but did not value turquoise.

Then in 1879-1884 Colorado miners dug over 4,000 holes in the Cerrillos Hills looking for turquoise. A new interest associated turquoise with gold. This of course brought new interest to the areas mines.

1320/1325 AD-Lead mining was popular at the Galisteo basin. Indians in San Marcos made copper glaze for pottery. They built a huge pueblo. In 1400 everyone was mining galena for glazing their pots.

In 1700 turquoise mining began and stopped until the 20th century.

Subtle remains of these pursuits, stretching over 8000 years and three cultures, provide the longest intact record of historic stone maul, pick & shovel mining activities in the Southwest.

Adventures Along the Trail

Whether you are searching for that special bird watching spot or a more adventurous hiking trail or family horseback riding, you'll find it all along the Turquoise Trail. Get ready for an authentic "Old West adventure."

The Turquoise Trail, highway 14, to Santa Fe, is a spectacular 62-mile drive offering everything from "soft" adventure to outrageous year-round outdoor excitement. From southern most Tijeras, a gateway to the 2 million-acre Cibola National Forest, to the northern end, the new Cerrillos Hills Historic Park, the Turquoise Trail offers outdoor activities for everyone.

Vacationers can simply drive the trail and enjoy the views or get out and really explore the land and get to know the people who live here.

The Turquoise Trail offs an abundance of wonderful and exhilarating outdoor adventures. The list of activities is endless and includes exotic bird watching, hiking, camping, fishing and horseback riding. This adventure is enhanced by a dramatic history steeped in the Native American culture gold and turquoise mining, Spanish conquest, host towns and early American pioneering.

The Trail situated high above the Chihuahuan Desert, incorporates plateaus, hills and mountains reaching as high as 10,600 feet above sea level at Sandia Crest. The drive along well-maintained Highway 14 allows easy access to the many activities and scenic points that make up the trail.

Cibola National Forest:

Picnics, camping and backpacking. Over 2 million acres of forest to explore

Bird watching:

A large variety of birds migrate through the trail. They are found "everywhere"
along the Trail.

Sandia Peak Tram:

World's longest tram with a total length of 2.7 miles rising to10,378 ft. The tram offers access to snowboarding and skiing as well as spectacular views.

Golfing:

Paa-Ko Golf Course is an 18 hole privately owned public golf course, located east of the Sandia Mountains.

Horseback Riding:

Explore the turquoise mines & the historic mining hills of Cerrillos year round.

Biking:

Offered year round on Hwy 14

Mountain Animals:

View antelope & buffalo grazing in the Sangre de Cristo Mountains.

Step back in time:

Visit the coal mining town of Madrid filled with galleries and entertainment year round. Take photographs in Golden, where in nearby Delores, gold was found in the first gold rush west of the Mississippi in 1825.

See America Program Benefits Local Byways

In 2003, the Travel Industry Association of America partnered with the Department of Transportation to promote the America's Byway Association. A micro site was created on SeeAmerica.org that features itineraries, maps and many links searchable by state for all of America's Byways as well as a poster, traveling photo exhibit in partnership with National Geographic Traveler, a pictorial email, bookmark and special advertising sections to support the campaign.

In 2004, TIA partnered with the Department of the Interior to promote the National Parks. TIA created a micro site featuring all 388 parks with numerous links to make it easy for travelers to connect to the information they required to plan and book a trip. In addition, several cooperative promotions were put together to support the campaign.

In 2005, TIA intends to build on its relationships with the Departments of Transportation, Interior and Commerce and expand ties to the private sector.

Cerrillos Hills Historic Park

Truly it is Santa Fe County's premier open space for hiking, biking and horseback riding.

Cerrillos Hills, rising nearly 1000 feet above the valley floor, are the weathered skeletons of ancient volcanoes. The volcanoes left behind deposits of concentrated minerals - silver, lead, turquoise and others- that attracted centuries of mining. From the trail one can see evidence of abandoned pit mines in the dry, crumbling rock.

Location: The Park is located a half mile north of the village of Cerrillos, just off the northern portion of the Turquoise Trail.

Hours & Activities: Open sunrise to sunset year round for hiking, mountain biking, horseback riding and picnicking.

Facilities: An information center and public restroom are located at the Entrada, the Park entrance. Little shade for wind protection is available. We recommend bringing drinking water, wearing headgear and sunscreen and dressing in layers. Please help us keep the hills clean; take your trash home with you!

Safety: There are historic mine dumps and unstable slopes throughout the Park. Please keep pets leashed and children close. Stay safe by staying on marked trails. Generally, cell phones do not work in the Park.

Trails: The primary trail slopes range from 3/4 to 3 miles with uneven terrain and elevation changes and spectacular views at many locations. This land is very fragile. Please do not shortcut or travel off the trails.


The following is presented as historical information from two of the newsletters produced during the writing of our original Corridor Management Plan

SUMMER/FALL 1999

Annual Turquoise Trail Auction

The first public Turquoise Trail Auction took place on Wednesday, June 23 at the Engine House Theatre in Madrid. Cliff Cato turned in a hilarious and energetic performance as auctioneer with help from Ede Cato who played straight man from the cashier's table. ("Honey, do we need that?") A terrific potluck supper was served and a cash bar was set up to keep libations flowing. Larry Valtelhas and Debbie Scott-Graham coordinated the distribution of questionnaires which were designed to determine the public perception of the Turquoise Trail. While the auction did not draw as large a crowd as was hoped, it can still be considered a success. A group of over 40 individuals bid on items donated by the Association membership, raising over $2,000. Special thanks go to Cheryl Valtelhas for securing two round trip Southwest Airline vouchers and to Elaine O'Neil for purchasing both vouchers. Thanks also go to Cliff and Ede Cato who donated the Engine House Theatre for the event and to all members who brought delicious dishes for the buffet supper. Plans are already in the works for next year's auction. The success of future auctions depends upon membership support. We would like to see donations from all membership businesses and more importantly, we would like to see you, the members, at the auction. It's a lot of fun for a really good cause. Remember, all funds raised go right back into the Turquoise Trail Association which helps you. If you would like to be part of the Auction Planning Committee, please call Diana Johnson at 505-471-1054.

Order your Turquoise Trail Mugs Now!

The first order of Turquoise Trail Mugs, featuring a four color print of the David Bradley painting, has been delivered and they are gorgeous! Larry Valtelhas is giving these lovely mugs away to anyone who participates in two Corridor Management Plan meetings. A second order of mugs will be placed very soon. If you would like to purchase these mugs for resale in your business, please contact Liza at (505)424-1885. There is a significant discount if we order 500 mugs, so please get your orders in early. As soon as all cash is collected, the order will be placed and mugs will be delivered in 4-6 weeks. Don't let another minute pass. Order today for the holidays! The mugs make great gifts.

Brochure Update

The new brochure, re-designed by Anderson/Ward Advertising & Publishing, LLC, is currently being distributed. The format is slightly larger and features the David Bradley painting. The brochures have been greeted with enthusiasm by members and public alike. In response to a request from membership, a second distributor in the Santa Fe area has been hired to insure that these beautiful new brochures are being put into the hands of more visitors every day. If you need more brochures or have ideas about new distribution sites, please call Carla Ward at 505-281-5233.

We need your input!

As the result of a recent cooperative advertising grant from the Department of Tourism, the Turquoise Trail Advertising budget has reached over $30,000. While much of this sum has already been allocated, the advertising committee would welcome your thoughts on other avenues of publicity and advertising. Several sub-committees have formed to work specifically with the website, a writing project and next year's auction. If you would like to be an active member of any of these committees, please call Diana Johnson at 505-471-1054. Member input at the planning stage insures member satisfaction with the project outcome.

In Remembrance
Original Turquoise Trail founders:
E.J. "Mitch" Mitchell and Jane Borough.
You will be missed.

Welcome New Members!

Blue Rose, Gregory Barnes
Paako Communities, Elizabeth Cox
LaFarge Western Mobil, Matt Carnahan
Sandia Healing Arts, Suzanne Keniley
Stoneridge Realty, Roger Crombie
Carlos Kinsey and Associate, Architects
High Desert Floral & Gifts, Pat Richmond
San Pedro Creek, Campbell Farming, Ron Pisk
Jewelry Tree, Paul Thompson
Not Just Bagels, Steve Kole
Home of the Half Breed, Jackie Alper
Another Place n' Time, Bonnie Parks
Whispering Dove Cafe, Alima McMillan

Calendar:

Engine House Theatre Melodrama Company presents: "Kitty Hawk" July 10 - August 22, "The Lucky Lady" August 28 - October 11. Saturdays at 3 & 8 pm, Sundays, Mondays and Holidays at 3 pm. Matinee only in October. For information and reservations, call 505-438-3780.

Sandia Peak Ski Area Events: Mountain Bike Challenge Series Race #5 - Ultimate Challenge August 8 Call 505-856-6419 for information.


SPRING/SUMMER 1999

AIRPORT KIOSK A GREAT SUCCESS!

The Turquoise Trail Association, in conjunction with the Sandia Peak Ski & Tramway are proud to announce the completion of an advertising kiosk in the Albuquerque International Sunport. The kiosk, which is just beyond the security gates, includes a four-color lighted cylinder depicting various scenes along the Turquoise Trail, including Christmas in Madrid, the view of Cedar Crest, the Church in Golden, etc. Banding the top of the cylinder is a gorgeous watercolor landscape done by local artist, David Bradley. The kiosk represents a successful collaboration of the members of the Advertising Committee and Anderson/Ward Advertising and Publishing, LLC. A special thank you to photographers, Marcia Reifman, Joan Saks Berman and T.K. Thompson; to Bradley Bowman for his display of "Archeology along the Turquoise Trail and to Ross Ward for his miniature western buildings. Larry Valtelhas of Internet 2001 has taken on the task of tracking responses to the kiosk. Larry estimates more than 100 brochures are being picked up weekly. We can only expect these numbers to skyrocket during the summer months. If you missed the "Unveiling Reception, on February 19, be sure to check out the kiosk on your next trip to the airport.

LOCAL ARTIST ADDS COLOR TO THE TURQUOISE TRAIL

For those of you who have seen the new airport kiosk, you can,t help but notice the vivid watercolor painting that is the focal point of the display. The painting, done by local artist, David Bradley, was recently purchased by the Turquoise Trail Association from Johnsons of Madrid and will be used in the development of a new brochure as well as many new advertising and merchandising possibilities. Look for mugs, t-shirts and postcards all emblazoned with the colorful, exciting landscape. The painting will be auctioned off at the upcoming Turquoise Trail Association Annual Auction, so start saving your pennies!

David Bradley is an enrolled member of the Minnesota Chippewa Tribe. Originally heralding from Minneapolis, he has been a New Mexico resident for over twenty years. His work has been exhibited in numerous museums, including the Smithsonian Institution and the Heard Museum in Phoenix. He has recently been selected by Santa Fe's Wheelwright Museum of the American Indian to do his second one-man, retrospective exhibition. His painting portrays the beauty and magic of the Turquoise Trail. It is the hope of the Association that the purchase and subsequent auction of local artwork will become an annual tradition.

MAKE YOUR COFFEE BREAK AN ART BREAK

Brand new Turquoise Trail Mugs featuring David Bradley's painting will be on sale soon! The mugs are a terrific addition to your own kitchen and make great gifts. At $10.00 each, You all definitely need more than one! The mugs will be on sale at Tinkertown or you can contact Carla Ward at (505)281-5233 to have a whole case shipped right to your front door.

TURQUOISE TRAIL MAKES "ALL AMERICAN ROAD BID

As many of you already know, the members of the board are hard at work on applications to become an "All American Road. This designation is the Federal Highway Administration,s most coveted prize and defines a byway as a place worthy of preservation, protection and promotion. The Scenic Byway Advisory Council meets the third Wednesday of each month from 6:00 pm - 8:00 pm at the Vista Grande Community Center. As the application process is extremely intensive, your help would be greatly appreciated. If you,d like to get involved, please join us for dinner at our next potluck meeting. Call Carla Ward (505)281-5233 or Larry Valtelhas (505)286-8632 for more information.

YOU'RE READING THE NEWS

You hold in your hands the brand new "Turquoise Trail Newsletter. The newsletter will be published by-monthly [?] and hopes to include all the "news of the trail that's fit to print." If you have items you would like to see in print or a particular issue you feel needs addressing, please call Tanya Ward at Anderson/Ward Advertising and Publishing, LLC (505)897-2044. The newsletter should serve as the voice of the Turquoise Trail. This won,t happen without your input. We welcome suggestions, articles, photographs and special event listings, so speak up!

MEMBERSHIP DRIVE

Check out the new membership packets! Better yet, hand them out to non-members and ask for a check in return. The Turquoise Trail Association thrives on new members. A larger membership base means more revenue which means more projects dedicated to promoting and preserving the Turquoise Trail. It's in your best interest and the best interest of your community to bring a friend or neighbor into the Association. Remember, you don,t have to have a business to join the association. Becoming an associate member is a terrific way to show your support of goals of the Turquoise Trail Association.

CALENDAR OF EVENTS

We all know there,s a lot of great things happening on the Turquoise Trail, but in order to list them in the Newsletter, we need to know about them in advance. If you or your community would like upcoming events to be listed in the Turquoise Trail Newsletter, please give all pertinent information to Tanya Ward at Anderson/Ward Advertising and Publishing, LLC, (505)897-2044. We will endeavor to include all submissions, but reserve the right to edit according to space availability.

UPCOMING EVENTS

1999 Madrid Blues Festival All Star Blues Jam, Sunday May 30, 1999

1999 Madrid Blues Festival Father's Day Blues, Sunday, June 20, 1999

Turquoise Trail Pot Luck AUCTION, Wednesday, June 23, 1999

1999 Madrid Blues Festival Mid-Summer's Blues Fest, Sunday, July 11, 1999