SOCORRO, New Mexico (STPNS) -- I would like to thank all the people of Reserve who visited and called Friday, Feb. 1, to wish me well as I enter retirement from the U.S. Postal Service after 35 years. Also, many thanks to Elaine Freshour for the beautiful cake she made for this event. As the Reserve postmaster, I had an opportunity to serve this wonderful community, and I enjoyed it immensely.

I have become involved with several civic groups in Catron County. These organizations are involved in many positive activities for our community and I would like to spread the word about the people and groups that are making a positive impact in Catron County.  



These organizations are staffed by our neighbors and friends, who deserve to be recognized for their efforts.

Reserve DWI Council

DWI council co-coordinator Dorothy Laney works with about 10 community members who provide input. She administers in-school programs and after-school activities, as well as general community programs.

Laney worked with teachers to encourage student to enter a statewide essay contest.

Congratulations to eighth-grader Arissa Klumker, who recently won three prizes for her piece titled, ?NM Youth Making Healthy Choices.?

The Planning Council is also working with the Parent Teacher Organization and the Reserve Schools to provide a safe and exciting experience for our students during prom and graduation activities this year. Keep you eye on this column for more information about prom, graduation and the council?s events for those weekends.

Reserve Parent Teacher Organization

President Kate Fletcher and the other PTO volunteers have done a wonderful job assisting teachers and providing parents a venue to assist the school. Current projects include hosting a Valentine Dinner at the Community Center and providing snacks for the students Thursdays.

One of the goals for the PTO in 2008 is to beautify the entry and grounds at the Elementary School.  Fletcher is requesting donations of plants, trees, paint and labor, with a target date of June to start the project. Anyone interested in donating materials or labor can call Fletcher at 533-6242.

Reserve Schools

The Mountaineer Invitational basketball tournament was a huge success. 16 teams ? eight boys and eight girls teams ? each played three games over three days in mid-January.

Local businesses set up booths in the foyer of the high school during the tournament, selling their products and handing out business cards.

Health and Career Day

The Catron County Health Council hosted a teen health fair and career fair February 5 at the high school.

Nine businesses and organizations participated.

Spelling Bee

Eighth-grader Brandon Johnston won the countywide spelling bee and will compete at the statewide bee soon.

School News

An entry-level computer class will be offered free Monday and Tuesday, Feb. 25 and 26, at the high school.

Space is limited, so call the school at 533-6242 to reserve a spot in the class.

Outdoor lights have begun to be repaired, with finalization projected within 60 days.

The Reserve School District has met the National Standard for Schools under the No Child Left Behind Act for the 2006-07 school year. Congratulations to all teachers and students for a job well done!

In addition, Reserve School District has attained Adequate Yearly Progress (AYP) for School Year 07. Congratulations to students and teachers!

Welcome to Odelia Delgado, the new business manager.

The Business Professionals of America students from Reserve High School will be traveling to the state competition in February. The 27 members of the team ? led by teacher and advisor Manuel Chavez ? will compete against all high schools statewide. At the state competition, students will compete for a chance to go to the national competition.

Historically, Reserve School has the highest percentage of students qualifying for the national competition. Good Luck!

Reserve School Board members Debra Porter, Sharma Hutchinson, Cathy Sohrensson and Richard Torres attended state training for Board Members.

Currently about 30 percent of Reserve School students are on the honor roll.  

Reserve Firefighters

Currently the Reserve Volunteer Fire Department has about 12 active members. Chief Don Weaver has procured an accident vehicle extrication kit for the department. This kit is to be used to stabilize a vehicle or structure so that first responders can safely extract accident victims.

In addition, he received a new Jaws of Life cutter for the Department. Weaver has also provided new patches for all Village of Reserve firefighter.

Weaver and the department are in need of a wreaked vehicle that can be used for training and extrication exercises. Anyone interested in donating, should call Weaver at village hall at 533-6066.

Volleyball Night

Every Mondays and Thursdays, members of the community gather in the old Reserve gym to play volleyball. Participants range from 16 to 80 years young. The purpose is to exercise and have fun.  

On some nights, 10 people play; on other nights, 18 people. Players rotate in and out with every possession change. Rules are lax; laughter is high, and after about two hours; everyone goes home well entertained and well exercised.

Maybe, just maybe, Reserve could host residents of Quemado and Glenwood and Luna and Datil and Aragon in friendly volleyball games. All are welcome! Just show up ready to play and have fun!

Good News

Catron County has so many worthy organizations and wonderful people. In this column, I?d like to share information, offer congratulations and recognize accomplishments of local residents and organizations.

If you have news tips, calendar items or other information, feel free to e-mail me at reserve87830 @yahoo.com or contact the Mountain Mail at 835-2030 or mountainmaileditor@ yahoo.com.

Richard Torres moved to Reserve in 2006 to be the Postmaster. He retired in February and looks forward to writing articles about the great people of Catron County for the Mountain Mail.