NEW MEXICO AND THE REVOLUTION OF 1776

Dr. Michael Swickard and Conrad

I was a guest at the Las Cruces Chapter of the New Mexico Society Sons of the American Revolution luncheon yesterday at La Posta de Mesilla. Michael Swichard, PH.D was the guest speaker for event and here is his speech on New Mexico and its role during the American Revolution. He was generous enough to allow me to reprint it for my readers.

As we celebrate our 233rd Independence from Great Britain this week, I believe that Michael's words ring so true as they did to ancestors in 1776.

"My topic is NM’s Role in the American Revolutionary War. Six Generations ago my direct ancestor Martin and his brother Daniel Swickard came from Germany to Rotterdam, Holland then England where they sailed to Philadelphia on Sept. 19,1765 aboard the ship, Betsy. They were indentured servants to Samuel Howell, Oct. 31 1765 in Westmoreland County, PA for seven years in return for their passage to America(The PA Pioneers, page 706.)

Martin Swickard was registered from Westmoreland County, PA in Captain Mumm's Company during the Revolutionary War (Penn Archives Series 6 Vol. 2 page 396). He also served under Colonel William Crawford in the Battle of Sandusky the 4th and 5th days of June 1782 in what is now Ohio. After the war Martin moved his family from Pennsylvania to Jefferson County, Ohio. Martin Swickard, born 1746, died 1841, at age 95.

What role did New Mexico have in the Revolutionary War? New Mexico had several roles over a period of 70 years starting in 1776 and ending in August 1846 when US Military Governor Charles Bent took over Santa Fe. In 1776 New Mexico was firmly in the grip of Spain and was so until September 1821. Then New Mexico was in the grip of Mexico which administered New Mexico until the US took over - again in 1846.
New Mexico was part of the Spanish New World Expansion. In 1598 Don Juan de Oñate Salazar traveled within a few yards of where we are today. He later wrote on Inscription Rock near Gallup, “I Don Juan de Onate Pasó por aquí - I passed by here." I like that. Years from now people may say Michael Swickard Pasó por aquí, Just think, Oñate wrote that fifteen years before the pilgrims landed at Plymouth Rock.

In 1776 New Mexico was ruled by the Spanish King Carlos the third. NM’s leader was Don Pedro Fermín de Mendinueta of the Order of Santiago, Colonel of the Royal Army, Governor and Captain General of the Kingdom of New Mexico. He served 1767 to 1777. We do not know much about his ten years of rule other than he wrote in 1776, “Santa Fe settlers are churlish types who are accustomed to live apart from each other, as neither fathers nor sons associate with each other.” I do not know why he wrote that. Perhaps this had something to do with teenage sons.

What was it like for people living all over the world and in New Mexico in 1776? Simply, there was not any freedom. Ultimately that is what drove our revolution and subsequent revolutions. The problem was for the people who had no freedom to visualize having freedom. The public schools say that the revolution was driven by those colonists who just didn't like the idea of a king. That is revisionist history.

Today, we do not like the idea of a king. Back then, can you name a country that did not have a king? It was normal to have a king. It was normal for everything you owned to actually be the king’s property and taken when he wanted.
The American Revolution actually started on the morning of October 25th, 1760. King George II, the 77 years old drank his usual cup of chocolate and then abruptly fell dead. That brought his 22-year-old grandson, to the throne as George the III. Over the next 16 years the situation with the American colonies went from a warm relationship with the king to open rebellion. Why? Over 16 years, slowly at first and then with amazing speed the concept of freedom came to the forefront of American thought.

When enough people understood they could be free, then came the revolution. Did you know that the English King George III kept a diary in which he wrote on July 4, 1776, “Nothing of importance happened today.” Really? The whole world changed on that day.

In 1776 while there was not freedom anywhere in the world, some people got that glimmer. Some of the better thinkers like Thomas Jefferson, Thomas Paine, Benjamin Franklin and others saw there could be with the right action the chance that freedom could prevail.

What was different than any other time in history is our leaders wrote about it so all could see: “When in the course of human events it becomes necessary for one people to dissolve the political bands which have connected them with another and to assume among the powers of the earth, the separate and equal station to which the Laws of nature and of nature’s God entitle them, a decent respect to the opinions of mankind requires that they should declare the causes which impel them to the separation. We hold these truths to be self-evident, that all men are created equal, that they are endowed by their Creator with certain unalienable Rights, that among these are Life, Liberty and the pursuit of Happiness. That to secure these rights, Governments are instituted among men, deriving their just powers from the consent of the governed, that whenever any form of Government becomes destructive of these ends, it is the right of the people to alter or to abolish it and to institute new Government…" you know the rest, eh?

That document literally went around the world and was translated into other languages. Thinkers in many countries started to get their mind around the ideas of freedom that began in our country. Within a certain number of years the number of nations who were not free went from not even one to several.
What was New Mexico’s role in this? They were held by a tyrant on the throne of Spain. They and others were the learners and our founding fathers were the teachers.

As the freedom movement was embraced, the rank and file citizen of New Mexico wondered if they would see freedom in their lifetimes. They did not.
However, as we think about the year 1776 we realize your ancestors and mine liberated more than the colonies. Their actions in support of the American Revolution were decisive in liberating the rest of the free world.

The final chapter in the American Revolution is it brought freedom even to the English who did their best to keep us as a dominion of the King. We freed them by our example. It was not instantaneous; it took many years for other countries to become truly free.

I think it is important to note what freedoms the colonists and in fact all of the other inhabitants of our world did not have in 1776. Some people in our world today still do not have these freedoms, but I hope they will someday. In 1776 no one had freedom. When our words of our national anthem were written in 1814 we were the only free nation. Slowly over the years country by country became free.

Currently there are 195 countries in the world, about 90 are free or somewhat free. Better said the people in about 90 countries do understand freedom to some extent, while the people in 100 or so countries are ruled by dictators and do not experience or even understand freedom because they have never lived free. So what is freedom, is it something we know when we see but cannot describe? No. To have and maintain freedom

I see eight principles that must exist for people to be free.

1) Our freedom hinges on the concept that the people have the right to rule themselves, not kings or dictators. We cannot be free whenever we are the King’s “subjects” in the King’s “realm.” Likewise if the ruler of the country is a dictator it is not possible for the people of that country to be free.
2) Freedom can only be sustained when a free people learn from the mistakes of other civilizations and from their own mistakes. Every free nation cannot afford to make the same mistakes as other countries.
3) Operationally, being free is the ability to voluntarily make choices for ourselves. To be free, is to have voluntary associations, voluntary monetary exchanges and voluntary legal interactions. If you are not able to voluntarily do these things, you are not free nor is this a free society. This principle falls under the concept of unalienable rights.
4) Only free people have the unalienable rights of life, liberty and property. Pursuit of happiness? Those above rights are easy to define and understand whereas “pursuit of happiness” is not. We have the right to pursue happiness, but there is no guarantee of our being happy. The core of our unalienable rights as a free people is that we have a sacred right of our life, our liberty and our property. We must have voluntary use of our property. Our freedom is only as secure as our property rights.
5) To be free we must all be created equal in the eyes of our government and have equal opportunities for both success and failure. However, we must have the right of equal opportunities but it is not possible to have freedom and have a government mandate that everyone must have equal possessions,
6) So freedom is only available if the government is prevented from being abusive. The Constitution was written to limit the power of government. It is a rule book for government. In theory, if it is not in the Constitution, government cannot do it. In theory. But we do know that central to our ability to be free is the rule of law. Freedom can only be maintained in a society that writes down the laws and protects the rule of law.
7) Because of the effect upon all of our society we are only as free as our markets are free. When the markets are held politically for the advantage of one class of people, there soon will be no freedom. One class of people cannot be held hostage by another in a free country.
8) Finally, our society cannot be free when one generation’s debts are put upon another generation.

Yes, I know that where our forefathers started in freedom we have retreated. That is partially because we, as a nation, are not very good at history.
One of the similarities of New Mexico now and New England in the Revolutionary War is that during the American Revolution about 25% of the people in the colonies were for revolution. Contrast that to about 25% of the people in the colonies who were against it, they were Tories, still faithful to George the third. And half the people in 1776 just wanted to be left alone, on neither side.

Today? A quarter of the voters are Democrats, a quarter are Republicans and today about half the people do not now care one way or the other about our nation’s freedom. They were then and are now just concerned with the here and now of making a living and not having your kids drive you crazy. For all of the talk about the closeness of the last few presidential elections, it is instructive to note that half of the American People eligible to participate in the election did not even register to vote.

All is not for naught, though, we have more freedoms now than in 1776 if we can keep them.

I like what Oliver Wendell Homes wrote in the 19th century, “A hundred years after we are gone and forgotten, those who never heard of us will be living with the results of our actions.”

We are the decedents of people who brought freedom to themselves and then it spread from their actions throughout the world. I thank God for them and my freedom. Thank you."

[Dr. Michael Swichard is a noted educator, columnist and former radio personality and you can find out more about him at www.swickard.com.

FIRWORK SAFETY

On Saturday, June 27th the sale of fireworks will begin in Las Cruces. I wish to remind Las Crucens of the dangers of unsafe use and discharging of fireworks can lead to seriious injury or death.

The following safety advise is offered in the hopes of making this 4th of July a safe and injury free one.

1. Use fireworks outdoors only.

2. Obey local laws. If fireworks are not legal where you live, do not use them.

3. Always have a fire extinguisher hand or a source of water.

4. Only use fireworks as intended. Don't try to alter them or combine them.

5. Never relight a "dud" firework. Wait 20 minutes and then soak it in a bucket of water.

6. Use common sense. Spectators should keep a safe distance from the shooter and the shooter should wear safety glasses.

7. Remember: Alcohol and fireworks do not mix. Have a "designated shooter."

8. Only persons over the age of 12 should be allowed to handle sparklers of any type.

9. Do not ever use homemade fireworks of illegal explosives: They can kill you!

10. Report illegal explosives to the fire or police department in your community.

PREPARING FOR H1N1 IN LAS CRUCES

The Dona Ana County/City of Las Cruces Office of Emergency Management will conduct an exercise from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday, June 29 at the Dona Ana County Government Center, 845 N. Motel Blvd. The exercise will involve various agencies from the community including first responders and health officials. The exercise will address the possible impact on resources in the area should we experience an outbreak/pandemic this fall of the H1N1 Flu virus.

NOTE: This is by invitation only. Prior permission is needed to attend the exercise.

We hope that this will help us identify our strengths and weakness in our All Hazards Emergency Operations Plan regarding emergency medical surge capability and enhance community and hospital preparedness for public health emergencies. This helps to establish the appropriate training, preparing and mitigation of our systems.

I will be attending the exercise as I am the Secretary of the City of Las Cruces/Dona Ana County LOCAL EMERGENCY PLANNING COMMITTEE. I will report back to my readers on the exercise.

CITY COUNCIL BRIEFS

The meeting of the Las Cruces City Council yesterday including two items on their agenda of interest to the residents of Las Cruces.

The first, was the franchise agreement between the City and El Paso Electric presented to Council for it's first reading. Mr. Robert Garza, Assistant City Manager presented the agreement to City Council as its "first reading."

There are a few residents and councilors who are not in total agreement with the contract and the benchmarks for increment 5-year extensions on the contract.

Sen. Steve Fischmann who has been a critic of El Paso Electric spoke against the agreement and asked the Council to not consider it in its current form. However, members of the Ad Hoc committee who served on the negotiation team asked Council to approve the contract as is.

Mr. Clay Dole, Vice President for the NM El Paso Electric answered questions from Council and the public. Attorneys for both sides were also present to and answered legal points from both the Council and residents.

The agreement will be reviewed again on August 16th for its second reading and the changes are recommended by Council.

NOTE: As a member of the AD HOC committee for the City, I will not make any personal comments until the agreement is passed.

Second, in s special Work Session, Council was briefed by Mr. Craig Uchida, President
14 recommendations have been made in a draft report by Justice and Security Strategies Inc., of Bethesda, Md. The report included the following:

• The hiring of a police auditor who would conduct periodic audits of public complaints of the Las Cruces Police Department, reviews of police department operational policies, improving the process for community outreach; and creating greater openness of the police department.

• Results of the study have not yet been shared with police department administration.

• 74 allegations of use of force, by 37 police department employees, were made by the public from 2000 to 2008.

• Of those, one police department employee received nine complaints and another employee six.

• A city council work session to further discuss the recommendations is planned for Aug. 16.

THIS WEEK IN LAS CRUCES

SCHEDULE OF EVENTS

MONDAY, JUNE 22

1:00 p.m. Las Cruces City Council: Agenda - Land Use
Immediately following will be a Special Work Session

THURSDAY, JUNE 25-28

5:30 p.m. - The Las Cruces Chamber of Commerce will have their monthly "After Hours" at the Springfield Suites off of Avenida de Mesilla.

FRIDAY, JUNE 26
The 90th Conference of the NM American Legion at Days Inn

N00N - 1:00 p.m. Las Cruces Business Network meets at Savino's Italiano for "How to Network Effectively." Cost is FREE, however a lunch is offered for $10.00 (optional)

SATURDAY, JUNE 27

NOON - The Las Cruces Chapter of the SONS THE SONS OF THE REVOLUTION will be meeting at La Posta de Mesilla. Dr. Michael Swickard will be the guest speaker. The State SAR Board will be attending this meeting and have their state board meeting immediately following. ALL SAR members are invited to attend.

If you have any local events coming up in Las Cruces, please let me know that I can include them on this column. Send information to ron@roncamunez.com. or wroncamunez@yahoo.com.

HAPPY FATHER'S DAY

Today, we celebrate "FATHER'S DAY" in the United States. I wish to take this opportunity to extend warm Father's Day greetings to my readers and pray that they have a wonderful day with their families.

HISTORY OF FATHER'S DAY

Father's Day is a celebration inaugurated in the early twentieth century to complement Mother's Day in celebrating fatherhood and male parenting, and to honour and commemorate fathers and forefathers. Father's Day is celebrated on a variety of dates worldwide and typically involves gift-giving, special dinners to fathers, and family-oriented activities.

The first observance of Father's Day is believed to have been held on July 5, 1908 in a church located in Fairmont, West Virginia, by Dr. Robert Webb of West Virginia at the Williams Memorial Methodist Episcopal Church South of Fairmont. The church still exists under the name of Central United Methodist Church.

Sonora Smart Dodd of Washington thought independently of the holiday one Sunday in 1909 while listening to a Mother's Day sermon at the Central Methodist Episcopal Church at Spokane, and she arranged a tribute for her father on June 19, 1910. She was the first to solicit the idea of having an official Father's Day observance to honor all fathers.

It took many years to make the holiday official. In spite of support from the YWCA, the YMCA and churches, it ran the risk of disappearing from the calendar.[4] Where Mother's Day was met with enthusiasm, Father's Day was met with laughter.[4] The holiday was gathering attention slowly, but for the wrong reasons. It was the target of much satire, parody and derision, including jokes from the local newspaper Spokesman-Review.[4] Many people saw it as just the first step in filling the calendar with mindless promotions like "Grandparents' Day", "Professional Secretaries' Day", etc., all the way down to "National Clean Your Desk Day."

A bill was introduced in 1913,[5] US President Calvin Coolidge supported the idea in 1924,[citation needed] and a national committee was formed in the 1930s by trade groups in order to legitimize the holiday. It was made a federal holiday when President Lyndon Johnson issued a proclamation in 1966. (Source Wikipedia)

WEEK IN REVIEW

It has been a busy week in Las Cruces with a variety of events taking place. Perhaps the most anticipated was the "Groundbreaking Celebration" yesterday held at NMSU.

Approximately 1000-1500 persons attended the event where they were treated to the largest hot air balloon I've ever seen in the shape of the Space Shuttle. Those who attended the event stated that they could see the balloon from the freeway.

Many vendors and space industry representatives were present with booths and exhibits including NASA and the NM Department of Tourism "yellow bus."

Governor Richardson was the featured speaker and thanked the residents of Las Cruces and Dona Ana County for supporting the Spaceport America initiative by voting for the Spaceport Authority Tax in 2007. He said that the future will be changed in regards to future space travel. Other speakers included representatives from NMSU and the City of Las Cruces.

At noon the Las Cruces Chamber of Commerce held their "Quarterly Luncheon" which was about "Spaceport America." Mr.Stephen Attenbourogh with Virgin Galactic presented the program and how the "new future of space travel will change the way we view space and commercial flight."

Grounding breaking events continue this morning as officials from state and local government attend the "official groundbreaking" at the site and in Truth or Consequences with more public events.

On Tuesday, the Rio Grand Rotary Club along with the Chamber hosted the annual "Association of Commerce and Industry" (ACI) legislative luncheon. ACI is concerned the "State Chamber of Commerce." Ratings of the state's legislators is presented and legislators are given the opportunity to answer questions regarding their voting records at the last legislative session. Legislators present were State Representatives: Andy Nunez, Joni Gutirrez, and Jeff Steinborn.

HISTORY IN THE MAKING IN LAS CRUCES

Tomorrow will be an historic day for Las Cruces and Dona Ana County when Spaceport America finally breaks ground for the new "airport of the future." The $200M project will be completed within 14-18 months according to the Spaceport Authority.

Events are planned for Las Cruces and Truth or Consequences to commemorate the coming of age...that's space age.

Starting at 5:00 p.m. the public is invited to attend a "Ground Breaking Celebration" on the campus of NMSU (on the "horseshoe" in front of Hadley Hall). The event is free to the public. Speakers will include Gov. Richardson, Representatives from Virgin Galatic, city and county officials, and NMSU Intermin President Pacheco. There will also be food and live Mariachi entertainment

Las Crucens and attendees at the ceremony in Sierra County will be able to get their first glimpse Friday morning of the WhiteKnightTwo mothership - part of Virgin Galactic's two-vehicle launch system. WhiteKnightTwo, will for the first time, fly over Las Cruces, Truth or Consequences and the spaceport site sometime between 11 a.m. and 1 p.m. on Friday, if weather permits.

You can watch a Webcast of the groundbreaking ceremony at the spaceport site starting at 11:00 a.m. at www.spaceportamerica.com.

ASSOCIATION OF COMMERCE & INDUSTRY ISSUES LEGISLATORS REPORT CARD

The Association of Commerce and Industry (ACI) has issued their Focus Report for the 2008 New Mexico Legislature and Legislators. ACI is considered to be the State Chamber of Commerce in New Mexico.

Today at noon, the Las Cruces Chamber of Commerce and the Rio Grande Rotary will join together to hear representatives from ACI present their report at the Mesilla Valley Conference Center at Days Inn. Local Legislators will also be in attendance.

The State's economy remains extremely fragile. Many have lost their jobs. Lower petroleum revenues. The scandals in Santa Fe and other financial troubles certainly does not bear well for Dona Ana County. The concerning aspect of the ACI report is that many of our local legislators’ voting records this past session indicate limited concern and anti-business.

Here are the scores of Doña Ana County legislators when it comes to business issues:

High Score = pro-business positions
Low Score = anti-business positions

Doña Ana County Legislators

Senators:

Score Rank

100% - Dianna Duran (R) 1st of 42 (tied with 3 others)
82% - Mary K Papen (D) 20th of 42
47% - Mary Jane Garcia (D) 38th of 42
47% - Cynthia Nava (D) 39th of 42
43% - Stephen Fischmann (D) 40th of 42 - third worst in State

Representatives:

81% - Andy Nunez (D) 29th of 70
78% - Mary Helen Garcia (D) 32nd of 70
71% - Joseph Cervantes (D) 41st of 70
52% - Jeff Steinborn (D) 65th of 70
52% - Joni Gutierrez (D) 66th of 70
50% - Antonio Lujan (D) 67th of 70
47% - Nathan Cote (D) 70th of 70 – worst in State

Sierra County Legislators:
Senator:
88% - John Arthur Smith (D) 16th of 42

Representative:
81% - Diane Hamilton (R) 27th of 70

The constituents in the districts where their legislator received "failing grades" should be concerned and ask some tough questions of them. The voters must continue to hold our elected officials accountable and require our legislators to promote the a healthy business environment that impacts us all. Without business, government could not succeed.

The full report can be found at http://www.acinm.org/images/focus09-final.

THIS WEEK IN LAS CRUCES

There are a wide variety of community events this week. Please mark your calendars and try to participate. I believe that an informed public is vital to democracy.

TODAY

1:00 p.m. Las Cruces City Council meets at City Hall. Agenda items include: amendment to "red light camera" ordinance, agreement with the Texas Highway Department to move forward with a proposed "commuter" system between El Paso and las Cruces and other items.

TUESDAY

11:00 a.m. Open House at the Ramada Inn (University & S. Valley) for the new Las Cruces Convention Center.

11:30 a.m. Las Cruces Chamber of Commerce and the Rio Grande Rotary Club host the Annual Legislative Luncheon at Mesilla Valley Conference Center at Days Inn. Local legislators will be reporting on this years legislative session, new laws, and an overview of state government. Call the Chamber office at (575)524-1968 for reservations.

WEDNESDAY

NOON Las Cruces Chamber of Commerce Small Business Council luncheon at the Las Cruces Home Builders Association located behind Citizens Bank on North Main.

THURSDAY

11:30 a.m. Las Cruces Chamber of Commerce Quarterly Luncheon at Mesilla Valley Conferernce Ceneter at Days Inn. Call the Chamber office at (575)524-1969 for reservations.

5:00 p.m. Spaceport America will be holding a public event at NMSU (on the horseshoe) to celebrate groundbreaking events for the spaceport. This event is free and open to the public with representatives from Virgin Galatic, Gov. Richardson, and other "celebrities" with displays and other space events.

CORRECTION

MAYOR KEN MIYAGASHIMA'S EMAIL ADDRESS IS : mayor@las-cruces.org

SONS OF AMERICAN REVOLUTION TO HOLD FLAG DAY CEREMONIES

The Sons of the American Revolution Chapter of Las Cruces will be holding Flay Day ceremonies On Sunday, June 14, 2009 at 10:00 a.m. at the Munson Center, 975 South Mesquite Street in Las Cruces. The public is encouraged to attend the event.

The ceremony will consist of three parts: first, the posting of the American flag in front of the Munson Center; second, a brief talk about the history of the American flag given by members of the Las Cruces Chapter of the Sons of the American Revolution; and finally, a respectful and proper retirement of older flags that are no longer serviceable.

Those attending the ceremonies are encouraged to bring their old flags – whether large or small – for proper disposal.

Flag Day ceremonies participants will be the staff members of the Munson Senior Center, members of VFW 3242, the Vietnam Veterans of America, Scouts from the Boy Scouts of America (Troops 66 and 71 from Las Cruces), and the Sons of the American Revolution.

The week of June 14 is designated as "National Flag Week." During National Flag Week, the president will issue a proclamation urging U.S. citizens to fly the American flag for the duration of that week. The flag should also be displayed on all Government buildings. Some organizations hold parades and events in celebration of America's national flag and everything it represents.

The National Flag Day Foundation holds an annual observance for Flag Day on the second Sunday in June. The program includes a ceremonial raising of the flag, recitation of the Pledge of Allegiance, singing of the National Anthem

WORLD HEALTH ORGANIZATION DECLARES H1N1 PANDEMIC - FIRST IN 41 YEARS!

Associated Press: The World Health Organization (WHO) declared a swine flu pandemic today — the first global flu epidemic in 41 years — as infections in the United States, Europe, Australia, South America and elsewhere climbed to nearly 30,000 cases.

The long-awaited pandemic announcement is scientific confirmation that a new flu virus has emerged and is quickly circling the globe. WHO will now ask drugmakers to speed up production of a swine flu vaccine, which it said would available after September. The declaration will also prompt governments to devote more money toward efforts to contain the virus.

WHO chief Dr. Margaret Chan made the announcement Thursday after the U.N. agency held an emergency meeting with flu experts. Chan said she was moving to phase 6 — the agency's highest alert level — which means a pandemic, or global epidemic, is under way.

"The world is moving into the early days of its first influenza pandemic in the 21st century," Chan told reporters. "The virus is now unstoppable."

"However, we do not expect to see a sudden and dramatic jump in the number of severe and fatal infections," she added.

On Thursday, WHO said 74 countries had reported 28,774 cases of swine flu, including 144 deaths. Chan described the danger posed by the virus as "moderate."

The agency has stressed that most cases are mild and require no treatment, but the fear is that a rash of new infections could overwhelm hospitals and health authorities — especially in poorer countries.

Still, about half of the people who have died from swine flu were previously young and healthy — people who are not usually susceptible to flu. Swine flu is also crowding out regular flu viruses. Both features are typical of pandemic flu viruses.

The last pandemic — the Hong Kong flu of 1968 — killed about 1 million people. Ordinary flu kills about 250,000 to 500,000 people each year.

Swine flu is also continuing to spread during the start of summer in the northern hemisphere. Normally, flu viruses disappear with warm weather, but swine flu is proving to be resilient.

"What this declaration does do is remind the world that flu viruses like H1N1 need to be taken seriously," said Kathleen Sebelius, the U.S. Secretary of Health and Human Services, warning that more cases could crop up in the fall.

"We need to start preparing now in order to be ready for a possible H1N1 immunization campaign starting in late September," she said in a statement from Washington.

Chan said WHO was now recommending that flu vaccine makers start making swine flu vaccine. Drug giant GlaxoSmithKline PLC said they could start large-scale production of pandemic vaccine in July but that it would take several months before large quantities would be available.

Glaxo spokesman Stephen Rea said the company's first doses of vaccine would be reserved for countries who had ordered it in advance, including Belgium, Britain and France. He said the company would also donate 50 million doses to WHO for poor countries.

Pascal Barollier, a spokesman for Sanofi-Aventis, said they were also working on a pandemic vaccine but WHO had not yet asked them to start producing mass quantities of it.

The pandemic decision might have been made much earlier if WHO had more accurate information about swine flu's rising sweep through Europe. Chan said she called the emergency meeting with flu experts after concerns were raised that some countries like Britain were not accurately reporting their cases.

Chan said the experts unanimously agreed there was a wider spread of swine flu than what was being reported.

Chan would not say which country tipped the world into the pandemic, but the agency's top flu expert, Dr. Keiji Fukuda, said the situation from Australia seemed to indicate the virus was spreading rapidly there — up to 1,260 cases late Wednesday.

Many health experts said the world has been in a pandemic for weeks but WHO became bogged down by politics. In May, several countries urged WHO not to declare a pandemic, fearing it would cause social and economic turmoil.

"This is WHO finally catching up with the facts," said Michael Osterholm, a flu expert at the University of Minnesota.

Despite WHO's hopes, Thursday's announcement will almost certainly spark panic about spread of swine flu in some countries.

Fear has already gripped Argentina, where thousands of people worried about swine flu flooded into hospitals this week, bringing emergency health services in the capital of Buenos Aires to the brink of collapse. Last month, a bus arriving in Argentina from Chile was stoned by people who thought a passenger on it had swine flu.

Chile has the most swine flu cases in South America, and the southern hemisphere is moving into its winter flu season.

In Hong Kong on Thursday, the government ordered all kindergartens and primary schools closed for two weeks after a dozen students tested positive for swine flu. The decision affected over half a million students.

In the United States, where there have been more than 13,000 cases and at least 27 deaths from swine flu, officials at the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention said the move would not change how the U.S. tackled swine flu.

"Our actions in the past month have been as if there was a pandemic in this country," Glen Nowak, a CDC spokesman, said Thursday.

The U.S. government has already increased the availability of flu-fighting medicines and authorized $1 billion for the development of a new swine flu vaccine. In addition, new cases seem to be declining in many parts of the country, U.S. health officials say, as North America moves out of its traditional winter flu season.

Still, New York City reported three more swine flu deaths Thursday, including one child under 2, one teenager and one person in their 30s.

"Countries where outbreaks appear to have peaked should prepare for a second wave of infection," Chan warned, adding that the virus could mutate "without rhyme or reason, at any time."

In Mexico, where the epidemic was first detected, the outbreak peaked in April. Mexico now has less than 30 cases reported a day, down from an average of 300, Health Secretary Jose Angel Cordova told The Associated Press. Mexico has confirmed 6,337 cases, including 108 deaths.

Cordova said he is concerned that other countries were not taking drastic measures to stop its spread like Mexico, which closed schools, restaurants, theaters, and canceled public events. He said the Mexican government has strengthened its detection system to spot cases in most of its 32 states to prepare for a possible second wave of infections in the winter.

"There's much anxiety over how the virus will act in the Southern Hemisphere, because the zone is currently showing a large number of new cases, in particular Australia, Chile and Argentina," Cordova said.

Many experts said the declaration of a pandemic did not mean the virus was getting deadlier.

"People might imagine a virus is now going to rush in and kill everyone," said John Oxford, a professor of virology at St. Bart's and Royal London Hospital. "That's not going to happen."

But Oxford said the swine flu virus might evolve into a more dangerous strain in the future.

"That is always a possibility with influenza viruses," he said. "We have to watch very carefully to see what this virus does."

READY OR NOT - DIGITALS HERE!

Tomorrow will make a new beginning for the television viewer when all television stations in the U.S. will begin broadcasting digitally. If you have satellite or cable television you will not be affected, however if you have been receiving your television signal using an indoor/outdoor antenna you may not be able to receive the signal if you TV is not digital ready.

The federal government has been issuing forty-dollar coupons to the public for free towards the purchase of a converter box for non-digital televisions. The converter box runs about fifty-dollars at most retailers who sell electronic equipment.

Today, KRWG TV at NMSU will begin broadcasting their digital signal a day before the require start date. This will be a great opportunity to check your TV if it is digital ready and you are able to view KRWG programming.

The federal government reasoning for the new conversion to digital is that it will free up more frequencies for emergency services.

If you have questions regarding the new change go www.dtv.gov.

MAYOR'S EMAIL ADDRESS

Mayor Miyagishima sent me a nice email this morning asking that I correct his email address as listed on my article regarding "domestic chickens" on Monday.

His email address is www.mayor@las-cruces.org.

My apology to listing the wrong email.

DONA ANA COUNTY RESIDENTS VOTE YES TO BEER AND WINE

Dona Ana County voters approved the selling of beer and wine in unincorporated areas of the county yesterday.

County Clerk Lynn Ellins stated that all ballots have been counted and only 33 provisional ballots remained to be reviewed. The referendum was to allow restaurants outside of Incorporated areas (city limits) of Las Cruces, Old Mesilla, Sunland Park and Hatch to serve beer and wine.

Low voter turnout was apparent early on with 1,336 voter casting ballots reflecting a little more than 3% of the total voters eligible to vote. The vote was 1128 FOR and 208 AGAINST.

The Dona Ana County Board of County Commissioners will meet on Friday at the County Governmental Center to conduct the required Canvass.

BEWARE OF CHICKEN LITTLE

As you may be aware the Las Cruces City Council is proposing an ordinance to allow domestic chickens within the city limits. It doesn't matter if you live in the city or not, this is a health threat to all.

This is a serious health risk to our community and our families. Certain City Councilors are promoting this issue for a very small minority. The Councilors do not want to listen to reason or that there even exists a problem.

My question to them is..."What expertise do you and staff hve in making decisions which affect public health and other health risks?" Certain Councilors seek "expert advise" for their "pet" projects, yet on an important and serious safety issue, all are quiet...Why? Now that they are in control, their own rules don't apply? Interesting. Bring in experts to explain the potential health risks. The more information the better, right? Why are certain Councilors wanting to push a rapid vote on the issue. We all remember the outcry from their supporters that the City doesn't allow enough public input on projects, where are they on this issue? What happened to transparency and fair play they ran on? This is hyprocricy at its best.

I think its time for Las Crucens and all citizens to send a loud and clear message to City Council and others that we will not tolerate rash and irresponsible decisions which affect the welfare of our children and community.

With the recent H1N1 outbreak they still believe it cannot happen here. I disagree. The only reason why Avian Flu or Swine Flu or H1N1 outbreaks have not been detected here is because we do not literally live with our poultry, horses, pigs, etc. as do families in Asia, Mexico and other underdeveloped nations or it is culturally accepted. We are a nation of proper health and hygeine standards, though some do not adhere to them, the majority do. Once we open Pandora's box the probability increases that will threaten our population will be opened as well.

Are you aware that the City requires licensing for bicycles and pets, yet less than 20% of the residents who have them are licensed,80% are not. We cannot enforce the existing laws, now chickens!

Yet, Council continues to pass ordinances without consideration that it will require more police, fire and codes personnel to handle the complaints and enforcement aspect of their mandates. We currently have a budget shortfall and now they will be straining the system because of a small minority. This is unacceptable.

Here are the email addresses for the Mayor and City Councilors. Please, if you disagree with domestic chickens in the city limits, send them an email to ask them to stop wasting city funds and staff on this ridiculous ordinance.

Email addresses:

Mayor Ken Miyagishima at mayor@las-cruces.org
Miguel G. Silva at miguel.silva@las-cruces.org
Dolores Connor at dconnor@las-cruces.org
Dolores Archuleta at darchuleta@las-cruces.org
Nathan P. Small at nsmall@las-cruces.org
Gil Jones at gjones@las-cruces.org
Sharon K. Thomas at sthomas@las-cruces

The passage of this ordinance will be a dangerous precedence and will possibly open the City to legal challenges by citizens.

I believe that this will be a real campaign issue for incumbents up for re-election this year and those who may challenge them. This will also be an opportunity for challengers to discuss the "red light cameras" and the real motivation for them.

I am reminded of a quote given to me that is inscribed on a paper weight on my desk that reads: "Never doubt that a small group of thoughtful, committed citizens can change the world..." Margaret Mead

WILLIAM FLORES APPOINTED PRESIDENT OF UNIVERSITY OF HOUSTON

The University of Houston Board of Regents announced Friday that they have appointed former New Mexico State University Provost and Interim President William Flores as President at the University of Houston - Downtown.

Currently Dr. Flores is serving as New Mexico's Deputy Secretary of Higher Education and will assume his new position on July 1, 2009.

Dr. Flores, age 61, served for six-years (6) as Executive Vice President and Provost at New Mexico State University. He served as Interim NMSU President before Dr. Michael Martin was appointed as the University President in 2004.

Dr. Flores earned his doctorate and master's degrees from Stanford University. He graduated Cum Laude from the University of California at Los Angeles with a bachelor's degree in political science.

We wish Dr. Flores every good success in his new endeavor.

NATIONAL CANCER SURVIVORS DAY

Sunday, June 7 will mark the 22nd National Cancer Survivors Day, an “annual, worldwide Celebration of Life held in hundreds of communities throughout the United States, Canada, and other participating countries“ as defined by the not-for-profit National Cancer Survivors Day Foundation (NCSD). Survivors come together as a symbol and dedication of defeating cancer.

The American Cancer Society will also join in honoring cancer survivors with celebrations to include parades, carnivals, races, art exhibits, ball games, contests, dances, inspirational programs and more.

Who is a cancer survivor? The NCSD defines a "survivor as any person with a history of cancer – from the moment of diagnosis through the remainder of life.”

Celebrate with someone who overcame the cancer odds...and offer a prayer for those who are battling with it today! Make a contribution to the American Cancer Society in your area today!

Together, we can make a difference.

NMSU NEWS

Manuel T. Pacheco completes his first week as NMSU interim president. Higher education has been central to Dr. Pacheco's life that it is no surprise he continues to work six years after his retirement. This week Pacheco began his tenure as interim president of NMSU.

Dr. Robert D. Moulton will leave NMSU to lead two colleges within the United Arab Emirates. Dr. Moulton, has been interim Executive Vice President / Provost and Dean of the College of Education, will leave New Mexico State University in August for a position in the Higher Colleges of Technology (HCT) system in the United Arab Emirates. HCT is a relatively new and rapidly growing part of the UAE national system of higher education.

NMSU ROTC Commander, LT.COL. Bradley Gavle will retire this summer. After 26 years of military service and three years as the New Mexico State University ROTC Commander.

SunLight Eagle Soars at Las Cruces Flight Test Center

The Physical Science Laboratory (PSL) of New Mexico State University announced that its Unmanned Aircraft Systems Flight Test Center successfully hosted the first flight last month of a solar-powered unmanned aircraft in the National Airspace System.

ROBERT S. WARD SPACETEC PROGRAM MANAGER SPEAKS AT MVEDA

Robert S. Ward, Programs Manager with SpaceTec, the National Aerospace Technical Eduction Center at the Kennedy Space Center in Florida was the keynote speaker for the June MVEDA luncheon today.

Mr. Ward spoke about the centers objective to try to promote student participation in the aerospace industry. He stated that Dona Ana Community College is one of twelve (12) higher education facilities to be involved with SpaceTec around the country.

Their brochure states "Dona Ana Community College has become a partner in an UP Aerospace rocket launch." Local students were involved in the April 25, 2009 launch from Spaceport America providing student made pay-loads.

Mr. Ward is an advocate for involving students in Middle School and High School to make career decisions in the aerospace field as 'aerospace technicians.'

He compared the aerospace industry today as that of the early 1930s - 1940's when airplane technology was introduced. Today, like then there is not enough trained individuals to meet the aerospace needs in the every growing industry. He said, "it is early aerospace technology for the next generation."

Our communities must invest in the educational opportunities for the advancement of aerospace training. He stated that Las Cruces was in an exceptional area for this in that it can draw from White Sands Missile Range, New Mexico State University, Dona Ana Community College and others.

The key to success in the aerospace future is to excite the new generation of students and promote science projects and camps like 'robotics.' Because of the lack in the workforce today of properly trained aerospace leaders of the future which will lead to a slower expansion into aerospace exploration.

STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics) should be at the forefront of the public school education with early hands on training.

It was noted that the new Spaceport tax passed last year will bring approximately $1.7 million to Dona Ana County. Mr. Ward stated that this "is a wonderful opportunity to promote the aerospace technology programs and that Dona Ana Community College is a viable option for students."

He stressed the value of sending young space enthusiast to attend "Challenger Centers" to get a valuable 'hands on' experience.

For more information on the program go to: www.spaceteg.org or Dona Ana Community College at http://dacc.nmsu.edu.

CITY COUNCIL BRIEFS

The Las Cruces City Council meet in regular session yesterday to discuss various items and resolutions.

The Council had to amend their current "Red Light Ordinance" to comply with the new State statute (SB519)which places a cap amount on fees(fines)for 'red light' violations. The amount that can be assessed for fees is now $100.00 for either a 'red light' violation or 'speeding' violation. The new state law now requires that if any disputes on a violation will be handled by the State District Court instead of the local municipal court. Also, the State will now collect 50% of the $100 fee.

As you are aware, I was opposed to the "red light cameras" installation and feel that the general purpose to deter traffic violators would not be affective as the issued violation and failure to pay the fine does not affect the drivers insurance or drivers license status. Failure to pay will result of the violation being sent to a collection agency. Most offenders don't care of they don't have to pay or be sent to collections.

Further, Councilor Miguel Silva stated that "he thought the cameras were for red light violations only and not speeding." I question if the Council understood the full impact of this ordinance and did not fully inform the public.

Director of Public Works, Michael Johnson, provided data regarding the number of violations at the various 'red light camera' locations in the city.

The following data was provided:

Intersections
Main & Solano
Red Light Violations: 356 Speeding Violations: 2592

Valley Dr. & Avenida de Mesilla
Red Light Violations: 1052 Speeding Violations: 287

Lohman & Walnut
Red Light Violations: 277 Speeding Violations: 1305

Lohman & Telshor
Red Light Violations: 187 Speeding Violations: 83

TOTAL Red Light Violations: 1852 Speeding Violations: 4267

Out of the 6,119 violations issued approximately 3,000 fees/fines have been collected. Under the new state law...will it be have been worth the time in training, leasing fees, etc. of taxpayers money?

NEW CONVENTION CENTER

City staff briefed the Council and public regarding the status of the new Las Cruces Convention Center. Construction of the center is scheduled to being in July 2009.

There will be an 'Open House' on June 16th from 11:00 a.m. to 7:00 p.m. for the public to review the plans and model for the center. The location for this event has not yet been determined.

Groundbreaking for the Convention Center will be on Wednesday, June 24th at 10:00 a.m. on the corner of El Paseo and University.

NM SECRETARY OF AGING VISITS SENIOR CENTERS IN LAS CRUCES

On Friday, Cindy Padilla, New Mexico Secretary of Aging and Long-term Services Department visited Senior Programs in Las Cruces. Her visit was in conjunction with the State's Senior Olympics being held in Albuquerque over the weekend.

The purpose of her visit was a "listening tour" as she called it. She visited various Senior Centers in area with her last visit to Munson Senior Center. She spoke to local Seniors, volunteers and staff.

She stated that "The State Seniors Programs provide high quality services and of all departments in State government is the most effective and efficient." Her department continues to review and evaluate social programs and even though her budget has been impacted by the economy, she assured those in attendance that she will continue to provide quality senior programs.

Secretary Padilla's department also encompasses Adult Protective Services which investigates elderly abuse and neglect, Consumer Division that deals with Medicare/Medicaid benefits, Brain Injury Advocacy Program, Long Term Care, Elder Disability and other Senior services.

Mrs. Padilla stated that "we are trying to make positive difference in our communities." She went on to say that "volunteers who are compassionate and caring are essential in making Senior programs the success they are."

"What we do is from the "heart" we act because we love our Seniors and we should continue to learn from them as they have vast experiences and expertise that needs to be tapped into." "We have are responsibility to care for one another...we must see the 'big picture' and remember that we are all in this together no matter our ages" said Mrs. Padilla.

As a side note, I have been personally involved as a Board member of the the Las Cruces Senior Citizens Corporation (LCSCC) for the last two-years. The LCSCC has a wide variety of programs at Munson Senior Center like: Saturday Dances, Kraft Nook, Thrift Store and Voyagers Travel Group. We encourage all Seniors to participate in the great programs the City of Las Cruces provides, from lunch, meals-on-wheels, recreation and crafts, travel, etc.

If you have questions,schedule of events, menus, hours, regarding Senior Programs, please call Munson Senior Center at (575) 528-0000. Shelly Modell is the Senior Programs Director and her office is located at Munson Center as well.

MONSIVAIZ NEW COUNTY FIRE MARSHAL

Robert Monsivaiz has assumed his new role as Doña Ana County Fire Marshal. He replaces Paul Chavez who resigned earlier this year. Chief Monsivaiz is the former Fire Chief from Sunland Park and Mesilla.

Robert Monsivaiz, age 44, is a resident of La Union began his new job on Tuesday.

I have personally known Robert for a number of years in my role as Secretary of the Dona Ana County / City of Las Cruces LOCAL EMERGENCY PLANNING COMMITTEE which Robert is a member and in conjunction with the Office of Emergency Management during various types of emergencies/disasters.

Robert brings a great wealth of experience to the position and understands the operations of the fire services, emergency response, training and mitigation process.

I know Robert will assess the County's needs and will continue to build upon the need for training and funding to the County's fifteen Volunteer Fire Departments.

Before assuming the County Fire Marshals duties, Robert was Fire Chief of the Sunland Park Fire Department, a position held since November 1995. The department has a staff of 14 firefighters and between 15 to 20 volunteers. Prior to that, he served as Fire Chief for 12-years in Mesilla.

I congratulate Robert on his new appointment and look forward to continue working with him.

GOP GOVERNOR HOPEFUL VISITS LAS CRUCES

Republican Greg Zanetti, who announced last month that he will run for Governor in 2010, was in Las Cruces today to begin laying groundwork for his Party's nomination. He was at County Republican Headquarters this afternoon and visited with residents and answer any questions regarding his candidacy and outlined his plans for New Mexico.

Later in the evening Mr. Zanetti attended a "greet and meet" dinner at the Double Eagle in Old Mesilla. The 'no host' dinner was attended by local community leaders and concerned GOP activists. Gen. Zanetti outlined his plans for the future of New Mexico and the need to incorporate High Tech and Low Tech together and utilize the wide resources available in New Mexico through the military, higher education (NMSU) gas and oil and agriculture. He said "it is vital to the economic future of the State to look at ways to combine the various resources to create a powerful economic structure."

Mr. Zanetti, is a Albuquerque financial adviser and a Brigadier General in the New Mexico National Guard.

So far, Lt. Gov. Diane Denish (D) is the only declared candidate for the Governors race in 2010. Former GOP State Chair, Allen Weh is seriously considering a run. Holdouts in making any formal announcements are Heather Wilson and Steve Pearce both former members of the U.S. House of Representatives.

MEMORIAL DAY - A DAY TO REMEMBER

Memorial Day, originally called Decoration Day, is a day of remembrance for those who have died in our nation's service. There are many stories as to its actual beginnings, with over two dozen cities and towns laying claim to being the birthplace of Memorial Day. There is also evidence that organized women's groups in the South were decorating graves before the end of the Civil War: a hymn published in 1867, "Kneel Where Our Loves are Sleeping" by Nella L. Sweet carried the dedication "To The Ladies of the South who are Decorating the Graves of the Confederate Dead" (Source: Duke University's Historic American Sheet Music, 1850-1920).

While Waterloo N.Y. was officially declared the birthplace of Memorial Day by President Lyndon Johnson in May 1966, it's difficult to prove conclusively the origins of the day. It is more likely that it had many separate beginnings; each of those towns and every planned or spontaneous gathering of people to honor the war dead in the 1860's tapped into the general human need to honor our dead, each contributed honorably to the growing movement that culminated in Gen Logan giving his official proclamation in 1868. It is not important who was the very first, what is important is that Memorial Day was established. Memorial Day is not about division. It is about reconciliation; it is about coming together to honor those who gave their all.

Memorial Day was officially proclaimed on 5 May 1868 by General John Logan, national commander of the Grand Army of the Republic, in his General Order No. 11, and was first observed on 30 May 1868, when flowers were placed on the graves of Union and Confederate soldiers at Arlington National Cemetery. The first state to officially recognize the holiday was New York in 1873. By 1890 it was recognized by all of the northern states. The South refused to acknowledge the day, honoring their dead on separate days until after World War I (when the holiday changed from honoring just those who died fighting in the Civil War to honoring Americans who died fighting in any war). It is now celebrated in almost every State on the last Monday in May (passed by Congress with the National Holiday Act of 1971 (P.L. 90 - 363) to ensure a three day weekend for Federal holidays), though several southern states have an additional separate day for honoring the Confederate war dead: January 19 in Texas, April 26 in Alabama, Florida, Georgia, and Mississippi; May 10 in South Carolina; and June 3 (Jefferson Davis' birthday) in Louisiana and Tennessee.

In 1915, inspired by the poem "In Flanders Fields," Moina Michael replied with her own poem:

We cherish too, the Poppy red
That grows on fields where valor led,
It seems to signal to the skies
That blood of heroes never dies.

She then conceived of an idea to wear red poppies on Memorial day in honor of those who died serving the nation during war. She was the first to wear one, and sold poppies to her friends and co-workers with the money going to benefit servicemen in need. Later a Madam Guerin from France was visiting the United States and learned of this new custom started by Ms.Michael and when she returned to France, made artificial red poppies to raise money for war orphaned children and widowed women.

This tradition spread to other countries. In 1921, the Franco-American Children's League sold poppies nationally to benefit war orphans of France and Belgium. The League disbanded a year later and Madam Guerin approached the VFW for help. Shortly before Memorial Day in 1922 the VFW became the first veterans' organization to nationally sell poppies. Two years later their "Buddy" Poppy program was selling artificial poppies made by disabled veterans. In 1948 the US Post Office honored Ms Michael for her role in founding the National Poppy movement by issuing a red 3 cent postage stamp with her likeness on it.

MEMORIAL DAY FORGOTTEN?

Traditional observance of Memorial day has diminished over the years. Many Americans nowadays have forgotten the meaning and traditions of Memorial Day. At many cemeteries, the graves of the fallen are increasingly ignored, neglected. Most people no longer remember the proper flag etiquette for the day. While there are towns and cities that still hold Memorial Day parades, many have not held a parade in decades. Some people think the day is for honoring any and all dead, and not just those fallen in service to our country.

There are a few notable exceptions. Since the late 50's on the Thursday before Memorial Day, the 1,200 soldiers of the 3d U.S. Infantry place small American flags at each of the more than 260,000 gravestones at Arlington National Cemetery. They then patrol 24 hours a day during the weekend to ensure that each flag remains standing. In 1951, the Boy Scouts and Cub Scouts of St. Louis began placing flags on the 150,000 graves at Jefferson Barracks National Cemetery as an annual Good Turn, a practice that continues to this day. More recently, beginning in 1998, on the Saturday before the observed day for Memorial Day, the Boys Scouts and Girl Scouts place a candle at each of approximately 15,300 grave sites of soldiers buried at Fredericksburg and Spotsylvania National Military Park on Marye's Heights (the Luminaria Program). And in 2004, Washington D.C. held its first Memorial Day parade in over 60 years.

To help re-educate and remind Americans of the true meaning of Memorial Day, the "National Moment of Remembrance" resolution was passed by Congress on Dec 2000 which asks that at 3 p.m. local time, for all Americans "To voluntarily and informally observe in their own way a Moment of remembrance and respect, pausing from whatever they are doing for a moment of silence or listening to 'Taps'."

Let us all take time this Memorial Day to remember the true meaning of this special ay, and attend Memorial Day events (posted on this site).