Swim Beach at Abiquiu Lake closed through 10/15/2025 due to Hiring Freeze and shortage of Rangers4/2/2025  Submitted by Carol Bondy
Courtesy of the Army Corps of Engineers (first two paragraphs) The Swim Beach section of the Cerrito Recreation Area will be closed to vehicle traffic beginning April 1st, 2025, and is scheduled to continue through October 15th, 2025. This closure will affect the Swim Beach, Paddle Craft Launch area, and group shelters 4 and 5. Visitors may park at the corral area at the Vista Trailhead, but will still need to pay the $5 day use fee. Parking in front of group shelter 2 is reserved for visitors with group shelter passes only. The restroom at the paddle craft launch will remain open for general visitor use, but restrooms at the group shelters are reserved for group shelter use only. The Federal hiring freezes have left the Corps of Engineers unable to fill Ranger positions which have necessitated a reduction in services. In an article in the New Mexican, district spokesperson Elizabeth “Lisa” Lockyear reports the area is being closed to vehicles due to a shortage of park ranger staff. The decision was made out of an abundance of caution, Lockyear wrote in an email to The New Mexican. Abiquiú Lake is short three park rangers, but the staff is “fully functional,” Lockyear wrote. “Public safety is our main priority at our lakes and we don’t want to stretch our park rangers to where they are limited in their ability to respond to public safety needs at the lake,” Lockyear wrote.
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Should it put the lotion on its skin, now that it's nearly forty? By Zach Hively I’m nearing forty. Reaching this age teaches a man a lot of things, among them that forty is not nearly as old as I always thought it was. I came by this delusion honestly. You see, my parents, when they were nearly forty, were significantly older than I am now. I can also think of one middle-school teacher in particular who skewed my perceptions. He had the visual texture of a neglected Red Wing boot. I thought he had simply been worn down by very many years of life and sunshine. Now, having also been worn down by almost forty years of my own, I realize he had something extra: excessive exposure to middle schoolers. For putting up with the likes of us for nearly two decades, he looked great. Even though I’m not as old as other nearly-forty-year-olds, I still need to take certain precautions into consideration. Like continuing to limit my exposure to middle schoolers. Like learning what exactly a 401(k) is. Like partaking in routine health exams recommended for Men of a Certain Age, Whether or Not We Agree with That Age. It’s in my interest not to die young even if, on paper, I’m getting older. I’m beginning with what appears to be the least invasive of these routine health exams, which is a skin cancer screening. I took great skin care precautions in many of my earlier years. For instance, I wore a baseball cap—the same baseball cap, mind you—for about four presidential terms, back when we youths curved the bills of our caps and wore it over our faces. This fashion provided an amount of shade and shielded me, at some distance, from an obvious lack of coolness.  I also wore a shirt in outdoor public spaces for most of my adolescence and young manhood, due to such debilitating body image issues as acne, lack of muscles, and middle schoolers being really mean at the pool, even to college graduates. All for naught. If you listen to skin health experts, you learn that you are at heightened risk for skin cancer if, like me, you have left the house at any point. Your odds worsen if you went out in daylight hours. You might slough off your epidermis every month or so, but the UV radiation? That sticks like glitter, and it gets everywhere. That’s how you get spots like this one on my arm. I thought it was yet another weird zit. But then it didn’t pop and it never went away. For two years. Nothing to worry about at thirty-seven, I figured. But now, as close to forty as I’ve ever been, this spot inspired me to figure out whether or not I have insurance, and what, if anything, it covers. Then I had to call and make an appointment with a dermatologist who, at least in that moment, accepted my insurance. That’s right: the don’t-make-me-use-the-phone generation is entering its big four-ohs. In case you wanted to feel old too.  The maximum allowed amount of direct sunlight in any given lifetime. The dermatologist’s office scheduled my critical preventative care appointment several months out. Fortunately, this placed my appointment in that small window when health insurance companies were reluctant to deny any coverage at all, especially for handsome white men. I arrived on time, which is late, to fill out my emergency contact info. You’d be surprised how often recommended routine care goes sideways. Unless you’re American. In which case, you’re surprised to learn that there is such a thing as recommended routine care. Then they put me in a room with a doorway in full view of the lobby and told me to strip to my underwear. So I’m in there, down to my skivvies, for two trained medical professionals to inspect at their leisure. They make casual chit-chat to put me at ease and make a conversation in my underwear feel more normal. Their idea of casual chit-chat, it turns out, is asking me what they’re looking at today. I balk. I don’t know. That’s why I’m HERE. In this room, our expected medical knowledge directly correlates to the layers of clothing we are wearing. The only resource I have in my pocket (which is over there on a chair at the moment) is the internet. It has convinced me that I am a walking squamous cell carcinoma because I forgot to wear my cap that one time. So they whip out what sure looks like a black light flashlight. This makes me nervous. I don’t know what that black light will reveal on my skin. Remember, I was once a middle schooler. There is no telling what stains might show up. Also, isn’t UV light what caused me to need this checkup in the first place?  I now have some tangible literature, in case the internet goes away. But the trained medical professionals don’t seem concerned. They flash that radiation stick over every inch of my skin outside of my undies, and as a sign of their advanced education, they do not make a single hurtful comment about my physique. They aren’t concerned with any of my many spots, despite every one of them sure looking irregular to me after I stare at them too long.
I point out the not-a-zit on my arm, which the trained medical professionals seem to have overlooked. They freeze it off to shut me up and make me confident that I am getting my insurance money’s worth. They recommend I come back once a year for the rest of my life, just to be safe. They even rebook my next appointment for one year later, down to the minute. I appreciate their faith that I, who will be nearing forty-one at that point, will still be kicking.  Yellow-breasted chat. Photo by Bob Walker By Carol A. Clark
Courtesy of the Los Alamos Daily Post PEEC News: Nature enthusiasts and bird lovers are invited to join local birders Mary Parsaca and Mary Orr for guided birding walks at the Los Luceros Historic Site, hosted by the Pajarito Environmental Education Center (PEEC). These walks will take place on Sundays: April 6, May 4, and June 1, 2025. Participants should meet at 7 a.m., at Los Luceros Historic Site, located at 253 Co Rd 41, Alcalde, NM 87511. These birding walks offer a unique opportunity for both novice and experienced birders to explore an area known for its old-growth cottonwoods and exceptional Rio Grande habitat. With over 152 bird species recorded, Los Luceros is a treasure for bird watchers and was once nominated as an Audubon Important Bird Area. “Dawn ’til Dusk Day” at Los Luceros provides an ideal setting to discover local birds and possibly spot new species. Participants are encouraged to bring binoculars, a camera (optional), snacks, and water. A limited number of binoculars will be available to borrow. The event is free and limited to 15 participants per walk, so early registration is recommended. For more information, visit PEEC’s website at peecnature.org/events. Stay connected on social media for updates on each week’s activities. PEEC was founded in 2000 to serve the community of Los Alamos. It offers people of all ages a way to enrich their lives by strengthening their connections to our canyons, mesas, mountains, and skies. PEEC operates the Los Alamos Nature Center at 2600 Canyon Road, holds regular programs and events, and hosts several interest groups, from birding to hiking to butterfly watching. PEEC activities are open to everyone; however, members receive exclusive benefits such as discounts on programs and gift shop merchandise. Annual memberships start at $35. To learn more, visit peecnature.org/support/membership/.  By Peter Nagle
I read something very interesting today and a lot fell into place because of it: “Authoritarian Regimes can take everything from you in material terms—your house, your job, your ability to speak and move freely [these things are actually happening now]. They cannot take away who you truly are… and that is your power. But to protect and wield this power, you need to know yourself—right now, before their methods permeate, before you accept the obscene and unthinkable as normal…. We are heading into dark times, and you need to be your own light. Do not accept brutality and cruelty as normal even if it is sanctioned. Protect the vulnerable and encourage the afraid. If you are brave, stand up for others. If you cannot be brave—and it is often hard to be brave—be kind. But most of all, never lose sight of who you are and what you value.” [Sarah Kendzior, “We’re Heading into Dark Times. This Is How to Be Your Own Light in the Age of Trump,” The Correspondent (online news platform), November 18, 2016 and cited in R. Rohr’s Daily Meditation 3/31/25.] These are shocking words, and all the way back to 2016, Trump’s 1st term. But they are even more true now. Way more true. They are a warning, from her and from me. Right now, we have the best economy in the world. I’m bullish on the American Economy and American ingenuity. And markets usually follow economic activity. And maybe our economy is strong enough to overcome anything, we’ll see. But what the President is doing, with these tariffs especially, could mess it up. Starting a trade war, which he is doing, is playing with fire. It’s almost like he’s a Russian Agent - messing up our Democracy, messing up our economy, messing up our Alliances. I’m sure Putin is just fine with all of this. There are 2 tracks here: the economy and our Democracy. He’s messing with both in very serious ways. What am I doing? Getting even more conservative. Looking for alternatives to stocks. Things that have more guarantees. Not getting out entirely, it’s always a balance. But this is rapidly becoming a time to be cautious and stay that way until we get more clarity on the impact of these policies, which could take awhile. I provide financial advice to individuals in our Abiquiu community at no charge as a way of giving back. If you have questions in that area feel free to contact me. I’ll do the best I can to help you sort through the issues. Peter J Nagle Thoughtful Income Advisory Abiquiu, NM 505-423-5378 (mobile) [email protected]  By Felicia Fredd
Xtreme Design SW Official 'firewise' landscape recommendations are truly becoming something to take more urgent action on. From simply removing flammable debris piles and putting safe space between material hazards, to reorganizing relationships between home, landscape, and garden elements, sources everywhere emphasize that areas immediately surrounding building structures are a significant factor in losses to wildfire. Wonderful, there are quite a few things we can do to reduce the odds of the unthinkable; however, the most effective guidelines cut a pretty grim image: a hellscape of homes nearly devoid of sheltering plant material and overhangs (especially of wooden material) 30'-50' feet in all directions. By default, such measures also necessitate foregoing basic passive resource conservation strategies via sheltering landscape vegetation, as well as environmentally friendly 'messy' maintenance practices such as allowing organic debris to accumulate. "During a wildfire, often it is “firebrands”, small pieces of burning vegetation and debris that floats into the air, that start a home on fire. Our research shows that if the firebrands land in dead vegetation, whether it’s under the deck or in the eave troughs, they often ignite the house." https://www.canr.msu.edu/news/firewise_landscaping_can_save_homes_from_wildfire I am certainly not doubting the statistical truth of firewise principles, but I am a little overwhelmed by their potential combined ecological impacts, which is also no joke. Right now, ecologists are sending a very strong message that private garden and landscape spaces are critically important in preventing further species decline. What a brain crunch. How is this supposed to work - particularly with regard to outdoor living spaces in desert environments such as ours? What about resource conservation through mitigating heat gain/loss, reducing wind exposure, soil conservation, sequestered carbon? What about wildlife? Prostrate, succulent plants in exposed heat islands (as recommended) require a lot more water than layered plant communities, and obviously don't create precious sheltered space for much of anything, including people. How can we protect ourselves from devastating loss without reinforcing the very sterility that has helped bring us to this place? What we have is a design challenge. We’re still gardening like Victorians, in the desert, and that should have already changed based on environmental science, but environmental design (including gardens and landscape) is particularly resistant to change. We do what we know, and we are deeply attached to what we know, and that is actually one very sweet thing about our relationship to landscape, but times are now clearly demanding something else. All things considered, it looks to me like all around 'smarter', safer, design will indeed come down to much more sparing, but hopefully also much more creative and multipurpose spatial design that supports human needs and better 'frames', shelters, and structures less preferred but more environmentally friendly native plants. We simply do not have models for garden/landscape that synthesize all of these interests and important details yet. I began a project, Xtreme Design/SW, with the intention of presenting a collection of perspectives and ideas about adaptive design for home landscape and garden spaces, but I'm really just getting started. I've been focused on familiarizing myself with specific principles of ecological design, and all I can say right now is that they run almost completely counter to mitigating fire risks. So maybe I can say just this: go easy on your 'keystone' plants, to whatever extent possible, if you are undertaking firewise brush clearing in wildland interface zones. For our ecoregion, these are mostly all the plants we love to dislike up close: chamisa, fourwing saltbush, winterfat, snakeweed, but would also include wild plum, coyote willow, cottonwood, ash, etc. Keystone plants are "the most productive plants that support the most species." - Doug Tallamy, https://homegrownnationalpark.org/keystone-trees-and-shrubs/ "Keystone plants are native plants critical to the food web and necessary for many wildlife species to complete their life cycle. Without keystone plants in the landscape, butterflies, native bees, and birds will not thrive. 96% of our terrestrial birds rely on insects supported by keystone plants.". https://www.nwf.org/Native-Plant-Habitats/Plant-Native/Why-Native/Keystone-Plants-by-Ecoregio  Los Alamos Reporter
ADMINISTRATIVE OFFICE OF THE COURTS NEWS RELEASE People with outstanding bench warrants from any magistrate court in New Mexico can safely surrender at the Rio Arriba Magistrate Court, 1127 Santa Clara Peak Road in Española on Friday, April 4 from 1:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. and Saturday, April 5 from 8 a.m. – 5 p.m. The safe surrender event provides anyone with outstanding warrants an opportunity to avoid jail and other consequences by appearing before a judge. At the time of surrender, anyone who appears voluntarily will receive favorable consideration when requesting a new court date, payment plan, or any other option required to comply with the court order. “Helping people with bench warrants find solutions, that’s what Safe Surrender events are all about,” said Karl Reifsteck, director, Administrative Office of the Courts. “Judges heard 356 cases and cleared more than 1,100 warrants last year during Safe Surrender events in Santa Fe and Las Cruces” The Administrative Office of the Courts’ Court Operations Division will invite people who have bench warrants and live within a 50-mile radius of the host courthouse for the Safe Surrender event via postcard, calls and texts. For the Las Cruces event, the division sent out nearly 24,000 phone calls, 13,510 text messages and 19,865 postcards. Judges issue a bench warrant when a defendant violates requirements imposed by a court, such as appearing at hearings scheduled in a case. If you are unsure whether you have an outstanding bench warrant, call the toll-free warrant hotline at 855-268-7804 or check online case lookup at www.nmcourts.gov.  Hilda Maria Joy nee Unger, 89 passed away on March 5, 2025 in San Diego California.
Born on January 18, 1936, on the Southside of Chicago, Hilda was the daughter of Robert Unger and Maria (Mary) Unger nee Janisch who emigrated from Burgenland, Austria in the 1920s and raised their family and owned a grocery store in the Fuller Park neighborhood. Left to cherish her memory are her three children, Lisa Joy (Doug Porter), Sheila Joy, and Patrick Joy (Barbara) and her two granddaughters, Haley Joy Porter Stanford (Shae) and Zoe Joy Kanga, many nieces and nephews and their children and many loving friends. She is survived by her brother, Rudy and sister-in-law Teresa Unger. She is preceded in death by her brother, Robert and sister-in-law Dorothy Unger, and former spouse James Joy. Hilda attended St. George Elementary School, Mercy High School, and Mundelein College all in Chicago. For over 40 years, Hilda was an active member of St. Theresa’s parish in Palatine, Illinois where she served as a lector and was a dedicated and fun-loving Girl Scout leader with the nickname of Broom Hilda. Possessing a keen intellect and great sense of humor, Hilda was a renaissance woman who enjoyed the finer things in life. An accomplished autodidact, Hilda was never satisfied with learning anything halfway or casually. Once interested in a subject she pursued excellence. Her homes always resembled a library. Hilda devoured books, incorporating their wisdom into her family’s daily life. She was happiest when sharing her knowledge with others on the classics, poetry, art history, history, the complete works of Shakespeare, biographies, naturalism, gardening, fashion, and the culinary arts. She was one of those rare individuals who would recite her favorite poems from memory. Hilda was an accomplished baker, gourmet cook, gardener, and a consummate hostess who curated all aspects of a meal. Hilda believed in preserving the bounty growing around her from the fruit trees and a grape arbor that she tended in her yard. Living next to a wood, she followed the wisdom of naturalist Eull Gibbons in Stalking the Wild Asparagus along with her parents' expertise from the old country, becoming a forager who perfected recipes with her finds. She loved classical music and throughout her life attended the symphony and opera. There was always a wide variety of musical genres to be heard in her home. Her children and grandchildren benefited greatly from her wisdom, knowledge, nurturing spirit and she taught them to deeply appreciate the natural and man-made world in all its beauty, great and small. Hilda was a talented writer. Her wordsmithing, excellent grammar, and her sharp eye for detail led her to careers ranging from a reporter for the Palatine Herald to Procedures Writer at National Can Corporation and Northrop Grumman. In the early 2000s, Hilda retired and followed her dream to move to Abiquiu, New Mexico to enjoy the wide-open blue skies and awe-inspiring landscapes painted by the town’s most famous resident, Georgia O’Keeffe. She lived along the winding Chama River often captured by O’Keeffe and enjoyed discovering the beauty, culture, and history of northern New Mexico. She loved volunteering for the annual midwinter eagle counting at Abiquiu Lake. In her well-earned free time, Hilda enjoyed writing short stories about her life and interests, especially cooking. She became a regular contributor to the Abiquiu News where she shared recipes and stories about life in Abiquiu. Hilda became an active member of Abiquiu’s Saint Thomas the Apostle church where she served as a Mayordomo and liturgy committee member. In 2022, Hilda moved to San Diego to receive care for complications caused by spinal meningiomas that eventually left her unable to walk and use her arms completely. Hilda’s indefatigable spirit and intellect persevered, and she learned to adapt and kept writing cherished stories and texts to her loving family and friends on her mobile phone with only her left thumb. Her family is grateful for the care and compassion given to Hilda by the numerous medical professionals at University of California San Diego Hospital, Palomar Hospital and Hospice, Saint Paul’s Skilled Nursing and Rehabilitation, Villa Rancho Bernardo Care Center, The Shores Post Acute, and Vitas Hospice. Hilda's family requests that loved ones leave a tribute to honor Hilda below. A Celebration of Life mass will be held at Saint Thomas on May 10, 2025 at 9:30 AM followed by a lunch at the Abiquiu Inn. Details about the event can be found below. The family asks that all who wish to attend RSVP for the luncheon so they can plan accordingly. Where Every Heart Matters at The Rescue Ranch Courtesy of the Discover Abiquiú & The Grand Hacienda Inn Nestled in the serene landscapes of Youngsville, New Mexico, just outside the village of Abiquiu, Horseshoe Canyon Rescue Ranch stands as a sanctuary of hope and healing. Here, amidst the rolling hills and vast open skies, with Pedernal Mountain towering in the backdrop, Mike and Tina Kleckner dedicate their lives to rescuing, rehabilitating, and rehoming animals in need.  Horseshoe Canyon Rescue Ranch A LABOR OF LOVE: MEET THE FOUNDS OF THE RANCH Upon arriving at Horseshoe Canyon Rescue Ranch, we found Mike and Tina already hard at work, unfazed by the biting cold or gusty winds. Caring for 32 animals is no small feat—feeding, watering, grooming, cleaning, and, most importantly, showering them with love. Rain or shine, mud or dust, one thing was undeniable: these animals always come first. Nothing deters them from their mission—every heart matters, and every life is worth saving.  Mike and Tina Kleckner, Owners - Horseshoe Canyon Rescue Ranch This sanctuary is more than just a refuge—it’s a testament to the power of compassion, resilience, and unwavering dedication. And Mike and Tina are not just caretakers; they are the very heartbeat of this extraordinary place. Their tireless work is a powerful reminder that love and kindness can truly transform lives. There’s something profoundly moving about watching a once-neglected horse gallop freely across an open field, its spirit reignited by the care it has finally received. Even more heartwarming is the sight of dogs, cats, donkeys, and even a pig trotting closely behind—a testament to the deep, unbreakable bonds formed within this sanctuary. A FAMILY UNLIKE ANY OTHER Our visit began with a warm and enthusiastic welcome—not just from Mike and Tina, but from the true stars of the ranch: Ten horses, three donkeys, seven dogs, nine cats, two mice, and one particularly charismatic pig made up the lively welcoming committee. Each animal had a unique personality, making it clear that this was far more than a rescue—it was a family. Seated near the paddock with coffee in hand, we watched a breathtaking scene unfold before us. The horses and donkeys were joined by a pig, cats, and dogs – all coexisting in peaceful harmony, in a way that felt almost magical. It was like stepping into a real-life Disney movie—only better because this was real. The love, trust, and unspoken understanding between these animals embodied the very essence of the sanctuary, a living testament to second chances and newfound hope. As we took it all in, we couldn’t help but be in awe of what we were witnessing. Curiosity got the best of us, and we eagerly began asking questions, eager to uncover the inspiring story behind this incredible sanctuary.  Love at the Ranch THE STORY BEHIND THE RANCH Q: Tell us about your journey. What brought you to Abiquiu? Have you always shared a love for animals? Tina: My father was a minister, and in 1968, our family embarked on a mission trip that brought us to Ghost Ranch. As a young girl, I was captivated by the land—its vast beauty, its stillness, its soul. That experience left an indelible mark on me, and I knew, even then, that one day I would call this place home. Mike and I were both drawn to Abiquiu for its breathtaking landscapes, rich cultural history, and the deep sense of peace it provides. But our greatest bond has always been our love for animals. For as long as we can remember, we've instinctively stopped to help any creature in need. Starting a rescue wasn’t just a decision—it was a calling, a natural extension of who we are. Q: What inspired you to start the rescue ranch? Tina: A dear friend opened our eyes to the heartbreaking reality of equines in crisis when she began rescuing horses from auction houses—animals just days away from being shipped to slaughter. Witnessing their fear and uncertainty firsthand, we knew we couldn’t look the other way. We had the land, the determination, and, most importantly, the heart to make a difference. Mike: What began with a few rescues soon became something much bigger. Time and again, we encountered animals—especially horses and donkeys—who had been abandoned, neglected, or surrendered by owners no longer able to care for them. We couldn’t ignore their suffering, so we stepped up. That’s how Horseshoe Canyon Rescue Ranch was born. Today, we are proud to be one of only 12 equine rescues licensed by the New Mexico Livestock Board (NMLB), giving these animals the second chance they deserve. Q: What’s the most rewarding part of running a rescue? Tina: Watching an animal learn to trust again. When a neglected or abused animal first arrives, they’re often scared, withdrawn, and unsure of the world around them. But with patience, kindness, and consistent care, we see them transform—ears perk up, eyes soften, and spirits lift. Witnessing that moment when fear gives way to trust when they realize they are safe and loved, makes every challenge worthwhile.  It's a Dog's Life MEET THE RESCUED RESIDENTS Q: What kinds of animals live at the ranch? Mike: We are proud parents to horses, donkeys, a pig, cats, dogs, and mice! Yes, two mice! Our barn cats brought us these baby mice, barely a few days old. They dropped them at our feet, and they’ve been part of the family ever since! Tina: Our main focus is horses and donkeys, but over time, we’ve opened our hearts—and our sanctuary—to other animals in need. One of our most unforgettable rescues is Piggy Sue, a potbellied pig who arrived with his ears freshly cut off—a cruel act we can’t begin to understand. FROM CRISIS TO COMPASSION Q: How do the animals find their way to you, or how do you find them? Tina: Most of our rescues come through word of mouth, local contacts, and referrals from law enforcement agencies dealing with cases of neglect, abuse, or abandonment. Social media platforms like Facebook and Instagram, along with our website (www.HorseshoeCanyonRescueRanch.org), have also played a huge role in connecting us with animals in need. Mike: We frequently receive calls from owners who, for various reasons, can no longer care for their animals. Some cases are heartbreaking—people who love their horses deeply but are facing financial hardship or illness. Other times, we’re alerted to urgent situations where an animal is in immediate danger and needs to be rescued without delay. Tina: And then, there are the unexpected arrivals—like our newest addition, a cat who simply showed up at our door as if guided by some unseen force. It was as if he knew this was a safe haven, and now, he’s part of our ever-growing family. We named him Big Al, and he has quickly become the Barn Manager.  Big Al the Barn Manager Q: Can you share a particularly memorable rescue story? Tina: Every rescue is special, but one that will always stay with us is Cooper North, a pony brought to us by the New Mexico Livestock Board. He was found tied to a tree with a mere three-foot rope—malnourished, weak, and deeply neglected. It was clear he had endured both physical and emotional hardship. When Cooper North arrived, he was completely shut down, his eyes filled with fear and uncertainty. We weren’t sure if he’d ever trust humans again. But with time, patience, and the gentle companionship of his new equine family, he began to heal. Little by little, his spirit returned. Mike: Today, Cooper North has not only regained his strength and weight but, more importantly, his confidence. Watching him run freely, his mane flowing in the wind, is a powerful reminder of why we do this work—because every animal deserves a second chance. Q: Do all the animals get along? Tina: For the most part, yes! But, just like people, every animal has its own personality. Some are social and bond quickly, while others take time to adjust. When a new equine arrives, they go through a quarantine period to ensure they’re healthy before being introduced to the herd. Some integrate seamlessly within days, while others take weeks—or even months—to find their place. Watching these animals form connections and create their unique family dynamic is one of the most rewarding parts of what we do. Mike: Herd dynamics are fascinating—some horses are natural leaders, while others are more reserved, especially if they’ve been neglected or abused in the past. We pay close attention to their interactions to make sure every animal feels safe and comfortable in their new home.  A Few Members of The Herd Q: Who is the quirkiest animal in your rescue right now, and what makes them unique? Tina: Without a doubt, that title belongs to Piggy Sue—also known as A Boy Named Sue or Sumo—our potbellied pig with a personality as big as his name collection. He came to us after being found hiding under a bush, traumatized and missing his ears, likely the victim of human cruelty. From the start, he trusted the dogs, horses, and donkeys—but made it clear that humans were not welcome in his world. If we got too close, he’d charge, leaving no room for misinterpretation. Treating his ear wounds became a challenge, forcing us to use a long stick to carefully dab on medication from a safe distance over the fence.  Piggy Sue But with time, patience, and kindness, Piggy Sue underwent an incredible transformation. Today, he’s a completely different animal—trotting over with a wagging tail when we call his name, eagerly soaking up back scratches, and shadowing us around the ranch like a loyal pup. He’s especially taken to Mike, refusing to leave his side in the garden. And while pigs and horses don’t typically make the best of friends, Piggy Sue defies expectations, spending his days right alongside the horses and even trailing them into the pasture. From a frightened, defensive survivor to a trusting, curious companion, his journey has been nothing short of extraordinary. Q: Have you ever had an animal that surprised you with their personality? Tina: Absolutely! Every animal that arrives at our rescue comes with their own unique personality, but many are initially shut down, fearful, or completely withdrawn due to past trauma. It’s incredible to watch them transform once they realize they’re safe. Some start out avoiding all contact, only to evolve into the most affectionate, attention-seeking companions—trailing us around the ranch! Mike: Seeing these animals rediscover trust and joy is one of the most rewarding aspects of rescue work. Every horse and donkey at HCRR now actively seeks out human interaction, which is a powerful testament to how patience, love, and kindness can heal even the deepest wounds.  Friends at the Ranch LIFE AT THE RANCH: A DAY IN THE RESCUE RANCH Q: What’s a typical day like for you? Tina: Our mornings start early—feeding, watering, and checking in on each animal’s health and well-being. After that, it’s a full day of cleaning, training, and maintenance work. Some days run smoothly; other days, we’re handling unexpected emergencies, battling bad weather, or responding to another urgent call for help. Mike: While we try to follow a schedule, the reality of rescue work means constant surprises—vet emergencies, unpredictable weather, special needs cases, or animals in crisis. With so many animals relying on us and the rescue services we provide to our rural communities, no two days are ever the same! Q: What does morning care involve? Mike: Breakfast is up first, with the animals getting food depending on their nutritional needs. The horses primarily eat grass, hay, and alfalfa to balance nutrition, they get the right amount of fiber, protein, and energy. After breakfast, fresh water troughs are refilled, and we do a quick health check—looking for any signs of injury, illness, or discomfort. After that, it’s time to clean the paddocks, because horses make a lot of manure! Q: What happens after morning chores? Tina: It depends on the day! Some days, we have vet or farrier visits. Other days, we focus on training, socialization, and rehabilitation. There’s always something to fix—fences, shelters, or equipment. And, of course, there are always phone calls, adoption inquiries, and rescue requests coming in.  Out for a Ride Q: Do you ride the rescued horses? Tina: Only if they are physically and mentally ready. Many of our rescues have past trauma, so their rehabilitation focuses on trust and groundwork first. At Horseshoe Canyon Rescue Ranch, we believe a horse does not need to be ridden, we believe every horse deserves to be loved and cared for. Q: What about the other animals at the ranch? Tina: Along with horses, we also care for donkeys, dogs, cats, a pig, and mice! Everyone has their own routine, and each animal gets the care and attention they need throughout the day. Q: What does the afternoon look like? Mike: After lunch, we do another round of health checks and provide any necessary medical care. We may introduce new rescues to the herd, work with animals needing extra attention, or handle adoptions and transport. Ranch work never stops, so afternoons often include repairs, unloading and stacking hay, or responding to new rescue calls. Q: What’s the most unpredictable part of the job? Tina: Emergencies. We’ve had everything from sudden colic cases to calls about abandoned horses needing immediate rescue. You never know when you’ll have to drop everything to help an animal in distress. Q: What does evening care involve? Mike: Evening feeding is similar to the morning routine—each horse gets their dinner, water troughs are refilled, and we do a final health check. We make sure everyone is settled for the night before we call it a day. Q: What are the most common medical or behavioral issues you see in rescued animals? Tina: Many of our rescues arrive malnourished or suffering from years of neglect. Some have untreated injuries, while others show signs of past abuse or trauma. Behaviorally, fear and distrust are common—some animals won’t even let us approach them at first. But with patience, proper care, and time, we see incredible transformations. The resilience of these animals never ceases to amaze us.  Good Morning Greeting ADOPTION AND COMMUNITY SUPPORT Q: Can people adopt from your rescue? What’s the process? Tina: Yes! We take great care in ensuring each animal finds the right home. The adoption process starts with an application and interview to assess the adopter’s experience, facilities, and ability to provide lifelong care. We also offer support during the transition to set both the adopter and the animal up for success. Right now, we focus on direct adoptions since we’re at full capacity—when a horse is in need, we do our best to place them in a forever home as quickly as possible. Q: Do you provide support to the community with animal-related needs, such as rehoming or assistance? Mike: Absolutely. We help families explore all possible options when they can no longer care for their animals. That could mean offering temporary assistance, connecting them with resources, or finding a suitable new home. Our goal is always to do what’s best for the animal and to support our local community in any way we can. Q: Can people stop by and visit the rescue? Mike: While we’re deeply grateful for the interest and support, we’re unable to offer visits at this time. We prioritize maintaining the animals' daily routines and ensuring their safety and well-being. Tina: That said, we love sharing our work and encourage folks to follow us on social media for updates, rescue stories, and behind-the-scenes glimpses of life at the ranch! We’re also planning a community day at the ranch, so stay tuned! Q: Do you need volunteers to help? Mike: Yes! Horseshoe Canyon Rescue Ranch is a volunteer-based organization, and we welcome extra hands. Volunteers can help with stacking hay, repairing fences, cleaning enclosures, and general ranch maintenance. No prior experience is needed—just a willingness to work hard and a heart for animals. If you're interested in volunteering, reach out to us to schedule a time!  A Day of Hay Stacking Q: If you could say one thing to the community, what would it be? Tina: Every animal deserves kindness, respect, and a chance at a better life. Whether through rescue, adoption, responsible ownership, or simply spreading awareness, we all have the power to make a difference. CHALLENGES, TRIUMPHS, AND LOOKING TO THE FUTURE Q: What are the biggest challenges your rescue faces? Tina: Funding is always a challenge. The costs of feed, veterinary care, and ranch maintenance add up fast—we go through around 1,000 bales of hay a year. To save money, we haul, unload, and stack it ourselves. Emergencies seem to happen on the coldest nights, and the emotional toll of rescue work can be heavy. Mike: Another challenge is that we run everything ourselves—just the two of us. Being in a remote location makes it difficult to get volunteers, so we handle all the daily care, training, medical needs, and ranch work. Rescue is physically, emotionally, and financially exhausting—but seeing an animal regain trust and thrive? That makes it all worthwhile. Q: How do you fund your operations, and what are your biggest financial needs? Tina: We mostly fund the rescue ourselves, but we are incredibly grateful for the donations we receive. A few years ago, some wonderful friends organized a fundraiser called Ride to the Rescue, which was a huge help. Local businesses donated items for an auction and the proceeds went directly to the care of the ranch. (One lucky winner went home with a one-night stay at The Grand Hacienda Inn, donated by Discover Abiquiu and The Grand Hacienda!) Mike: Our biggest expenses are feed and veterinary care. Every donation, no matter how small, makes a big difference in keeping the rescue running. Q: What are your goals for the next five years? Tina: To continue making a difference—one heart at a time. One of our most crucial goals is obtaining consistent funding through grants, donations, and sponsorships. This will ensure the long-term sustainability of the ranch and allow us to continue taking in emergency rescues. Mike: Our primary goals focus on expanding and improving our rescue efforts in several key areas. By focusing on these priorities, we can create a lasting impact for the animals in our care and the broader rescue community.
Q: Are there any upcoming events or projects you'd like people to know about? Tina: Yes! We're excited to announce plans for an upcoming Community Open House. Since we run the rescue full-time, we aren't always able to welcome visitors, but this special event will give people the opportunity to tour the ranch, meet the animals, and learn more about our mission. We can't wait to share our work with the community! HOW YOU CAN HELP Ways to Support the Ranch Donations, volunteering, and spreading the word all contribute to making a difference. every act of kindness helps them continue transforming lives—one rescue, one heart at a time.
 FINAL THOUGHTS Mike and Tina’s dedication to their animals is truly inspiring. Their unwavering commitment to rescuing, rehabilitating, and restoring trust in animals who have endured hardship demonstrates the profound impact that kindness and perseverance can have on vulnerable lives. Despite facing numerous challenges—whether financial, emotional, or logistical—they remain steadfast in their mission, ensuring that each animal receives the care, love, and second chance it deserves. Their work serves as a potent reminder that every creature, no matter its past, has the potential to heal and thrive when given the right environment and support. Through patience and compassion, they not only transform the lives of the animals they rescue but also inspire others to take action, whether by adopting, volunteering, or simply spreading awareness about the importance of animal welfare. In a world where so many animals are abandoned, neglected, or mistreated, Mike and Tina’s efforts shine as a beacon of hope. Their journey proves that small acts of kindness can lead to profound change and that with enough dedication, second chances are always possible. FOR MORE INFORMATION ON HORSESHOE CANYON RESCUE RANCH 📍 Location: Youngsville, New Mexico 🌐 Website: www.HorseshoeCanyonRescueRanch.org 💙 Support Our Mission: Donate via Zelle at [email protected] 📩 Contact Us: Email: [email protected] Your support helps rescue and care for horses in need—thank you for making a difference! 🐴💙  The Grand Hacienda Inn MORE INFORMATION ABOUT DISCOVER ABIQUIU
This blog is sponsored by Discover Abiquiú and The Grand Hacienda Inn. Nestled in the heart of northern New Mexico, Abiquiú is a breathtaking destination known for its stunning landscapes, rich cultural heritage, and deep artistic roots. Once home to legendary artist Georgia O’Keeffe, this enchanting region boasts dramatic red rock formations, serene lakes, and endless desert vistas. Discover Abiquiú provides visitors with local information, activity updates, and event highlights through its website (www.thegrandhacienda.com/discoverabiquiu) and social media channels (www.facebook.com/discoverabiquiu). At the heart of this captivating landscape lies The Grand Hacienda Inn (www.thegrandhacienda.com), an exclusive luxury bed and breakfast perched on a mesa overlooking Abiquiú Lake. Designed for tranquility and indulgence, this intimate, adults-only retreat offers an unparalleled Southwest experience. With just three beautifully curated suites, The Grand Hacienda seamlessly blends traditional adobe architecture with modern comforts, featuring private courtyards, spa-like bathrooms, breathtaking views, and gourmet breakfasts made with locally sourced ingredients.  Scene from previous Sheep Shearing Day, Photo by Tira Howard Photography  Scene from previous Sheep Shearing Day, Photo by Tira Howard Photography  Scene from previous Sheep Shearing Day, Photo by Tira Howard Photography LOS LUCEROS NEWS RELEASE
Courtesy of the Los Alamos Reporter Los Luceros Historic Site is hosting its annual Sheep Shearing Day the first Sunday in April, offering people of all ages a great opportunity to see the flock of Navajo-Churro sheep up close and learn more about them. What: Visitors can watch shearer Kerry Mower use double-bow shears to remove wool from the site’s Navajo-Churro sheep from 8 – 11 a.m. People are invited to participate in hands-on activities during the event, including wool skirting, drop spinning workshops, and a sheep drawing workshop. The event also features an early morning bird walking tour, a children’s story time and weaving activity, and food trucks. See the schedule of events online. Who: Los Luceros Historic Site When: Sunday, April 6, Site opens at 6:45 a.m., bird tour at 7 a.m., shearing at 8 a.m., activities throughout the day Where: Los Luceros Historic Site, 253 County Rd 41, Alcalde, NM 87511 Why: Navajo-Churro sheep are a unique and endangered breed, descended from sheep brought to New Mexico by the Spanish before 1600 AD. The Diné (Navajo) bred the sheep for their unique wool that is perfect for weaving, thereby creating the unique species they call “The First” or “The True Sheep.” Los Luceros Historic Site is dedicated to celebrating the history and heritage of these animals. The first Cat Dispatch from a Dog Man. By Zach Hively In times of crisis, we learn who we really are—and what really matters most. I, for instance, appear to value my snacks above even the rule of law and my own domestic bliss put together. There’s a lot of context to unpack here. Let me simplify it:
 And in the coming times—when we are all going to need uplifting stories about very different factions coming together for a greater good—you’ll be seeing a great many dispatches about how I, a dog man, am desperate for these cats to tolerate my existence. Loving the cats is easy. They are a package deal with a very lovely human who I am interested in having continued relations with. They look so soft when they steal her lap before I get to it, and they have—to my knowledge, and I think I’d know—not yet once puked in my shoes.* *Which is a thing they, these specific cats, have done to other people before me. The hard part, you’d think, would be not loving them. The hard part, in reality, is predicting them, because I don’t speak Cat. English is my first language. Dog is my second. German third. My Cat is about as good as my Spanish: I barely even try to conjugate the verbs, but I can let myself think I understand some of the loan words, cognates, and food vocabulary. In active conversation, though, I slip easily into speaking Dog, where—at least in my dialect—food far back on the counter is safe, and anything falling off the counter is fair game for that brief moment between landing on the floor and either a) I cover it with my foot, or b) I remember just how little of an impediment swallowing is when speaking Dog. At my co-human’s house, we really don’t worry much about food. By “we” I mean, of course, “us humans.” One of the three cats in particular—let’s call her “Soks” because that is one of her many names—worries constantly that we have forgotten, are forgetting, and will continue to forget about the sacred offering of wet food. I’m not used to this. I have two dogs who, put together, outweigh me, at least when I myself am not worshipping wet food. They do not insist on being fed. I have, on at least one occasion, forgotten to feed them entirely, and I received no formal grievances. The exception here is bread; I cannot eat a carbohydrate without suffering an onset of Toast Face.  Yet I also know what happens when, say, a hamburger or an entire rabbit is left unattended. It can disappear fully in the time it takes to get the mustard from the fridge. Many a cat, however—whose natural meals will scamper into a hole in the wall if given the chance—will turn up its nose at gourmet tuna purée because you served it on the wrong day of the week. I’ve seen it myself. Soks’ sister, Bug, once quit eating wet food because, and I quote, “So what if I ate that every day for the last eighteen months? It’s gross now.” And their brother, Beep, will not touch a mouse because texture. This pickiness works well for me, because I am not the one responsible for feeding the cats. Also, the cats will leave my human food unscarfed, unlike certain other furry canine creatures I could mention but won’t. I have never committed a felony, but if I did, it would be over someone interfering with my munchables. Which brings us to a time of crisis. I was already hungry. We co-humans had about forty-five minutes to get out the door for an evening of being around people, an evening with no hope of dinner until we came home in the double digit o’clocks. I was washing up and heard a song from the kitchen, distinct from the cat-centric wet-food songs that will rouse Soks from a near-death stupor: Chickie chickie chickie Chickie for my Zach Chickie chickie chickie My Zach Zach needs a snack My co-human, knowing I needed food for my own wellbeing but mostly for hers, had pulled some pre-cooked chickie from the fridge. I put it in a bowl. I decided not to microwave it, for the sake of time and also because warm chicken would make me want warm sides, and there was no time for that now. The bowl was on the counter. This should not need to be described, but it is important for the sake of the one single, simple rule in this house, which translates from Cat as: TWELVE PAWS ON THE FLOOR. I, being a literalist at times, need you to know that the rule is not actually twelve paws on the floor. It is zero paws on the counter. This is a sanitary rule, and also a safety one. The counter, to a cat, looks identical to the stovetop, which is sometimes hot, and vets are expensive. I have sometimes been enlisted as the muscle to enforce this law. Because I want the cats to love me, I always whisper to them that it’s not my fault, but we’ll both be in trouble if we don’t comply. At that, the cats usually give me a look that is not in a dog’s vocabulary. But I put the remaining chickie in the fridge, which I think showed admirable restraint and forward-thinkingness to when we might—as happens—be hungry again later. I said something sweet to my co-human that consumed my attention for not very many seconds, really. And when I turned around. There was Soks. On the counter. Eating my chickie.  I had to act fast.
And remember, Dog is my second language. There is no time for diplomacy with a dog. Not with chickie involved. So I did what any good dog person would do: I put my foot over the chickie. No, not really. Because—and this is generally foreign to a big-dog man—I’ve never had to cover food on the counter with my foot. But I did snatch that bowl of chickie away from Soks faster than you could say pspsps. It didn’t matter that it would take her a metric week to get through that whole bowl. It didn’t matter that the letter of the law states that the appropriate action in that moment is to sweep the purrrpetrator onto the floor. My instincts kicked in, and I reclaimed what was mine, rules be damned. I did make amends. Ahsoka was not flummoxed. She knows her place is secure. Neither was my co-human. In fact, she laughed, and she laughed. She laughed at me, a grown-ass adult human man, defending my snackie snack from a fourteen-pound indoor cat. And I? I gave Soks some little cat-bite-sized pieces of my chicken, which lured her onto my chair—a drastic improvement over her long-running stance that I don’t exist in any meaningful sense one way or another. It may not yet be love that she’s showing me. But remember, I speak fluent Dog. I know how to bribe for affection. |
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