| The Raton Colfax County
Hispano Chamber of Commerce was founded in 1994 when the late Mr. Mel Raught,
and Carmen Martinez approached Mr. Ted Ortiz to explore the possibility of
forming a Hispano Chamber of Commerce. That first informal meeting soon
generated interest from other individuals and business establishments. Their
first formal meeting was held at K-Bob's Steak House and was attended by Ted
Ortiz, Gerald Chavez, Fermin Ulibarri, and Mel Raught. As more members became
involved, the meetings were later held at the Carousel Restaurant, now the home
of Tio's Restaurant.
Raton/Colfax County Hispano Chamber of Commerce
Gilbert Vigil, Arturo Roberto Cruz, Vice President; George Dominguez, President;
Sallyann Smith, Rita Martinez, Treasurer; Danny Griego.
From those inaugural meetings, articles of incorporation were drafted and
by-laws were enacted by its first board of directors consisting of Aleen
Martinez, President; Mel Raught, Vice-President; Frank Rivali, Treasurer; and
Louise Arellano, Secretary. Other board members at that time included: Fermin
Ulibarri, Ted Ortiz, Gerald Chavez, Carmen Martinez, Chris Candelario, Louise
Trujillo, and Benita Contreras. Current officers and board members are: George
Dominguez, President; Art Cruz, Vice President; Rita Martinez, Treasurer;
Rayetta LeDoux, Gilbert Vigil, Sally Smith, John Montoya, Gloria
Ortiz-Daugherty, and Danny Griego.
Today the Chamber has evolved to its present membership of 98
who sponsor and promote numerous local events such as: Cinco de Mayo, the Fourth
of July Parade and Fiesta, Cruise-in Car Show, Santa Fe Trail Half Marathon, the
Winter Mercado, and Las Posadas. Other projects in the works are: the Santa Fe
Trail Scenic By-Ways map, Joe Vigil Memorial Park, Star Search - a scholarship
program which plans to award three $500 grants regardless of race, color or
creed - as well as several cultural productions at the Shuler Theatre. This
year's 4th of July parade will be dedicated to area Vietnam Veterans with a
Homecoming theme. There will be entertainment at Ripley Park, carnival rides and
arts and crafts. Scheduled performers include Rosalia De Aragon with her
rendition of Cuento de la Llorona (tale of the weeping lady), fortune teller, a
gong show, and DJ music.
This year the Santa Fe Trail Half Marathon is pleased to include
the inaugural “First National Loan Production Office 5K Run/Walk.” For the
first time prize money will be offered: $100 for first, $75 for second, and $50
for third place. Additional prize money will total a $6,000 purse for
male/female winners in the half marathon. This half marathon attracts elite
runners from several European and African countries as well as local and
regional runners. A pre-marathon pasta dinner will feature guest speaker Eddy
Hellubyck, ranked number one master runner (over 40) in the United States, and
number two in the world.
| If you should require additional details on any
planned events or would prefer information on chamber membership, call 505/
445-8242. |
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