Chama Valley & Abiquiú Daily Digest Saturday, September 19, 2026
Ty's Take
When a week starts this way, with five names in the obituary column, you sit with it for a minute. These aren't strangers. Anita, Esther, Leroy, Bernice, Elaine, they're the people who knew this country in ways the rest of us are still learning. They knew the land grants before the papers got filed away, knew where the water ran and which families went back how far. The resolutions passing for fire and police equipment matter, sure, and the police blotter reminds us that even up here, somebody's always got an angle. But on a morning like this, the real business of the valley is remembering who held it together, and making sure their kids and grandkids know what they knew.
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Rio Grande SUN
In Loving Memory of Anita Fresquez Montoya
Anita Fresquez Montoya, 66, of Espanola, New Mexico, passed away on April 16, 2026, in Overland Park, Kansas. Born September 28, 1959, she is survived by her family and loved ones.
Esther Quintana is remembered by her surviving sisters Linda and Gloria, along with her children and extended family. She was preceded in death by her parents and several siblings.
Andrew 'Leroy' Archuleta, 70, of Embudo and born in Española, New Mexico, died peacefully on June 11, 2026. He was known for his love of the outdoors and deep connection to the land and traditions of his community.
Bernice Dominguez, 82, an Espanola resident, passed away on September 1, 2026, following a sudden illness. She was preceded in death by her husband Armin Dominguez and several siblings and parents.
Elaine Filbert, 82, of Santa Clara Pueblo, New Mexico, died on September 7, 2026, surrounded by family after a life devoted to education and community service. Born April 13, 1944, to Jose Eugene and Mary Isabel Naranjo, she was dedicated to preserving her culture.
Resolutions Will Help Fund EFD, EPD Projects
The Española City Council approved two resolutions at a Tuesday special meeting to fund police and fire department projects. The approvals included a $200,000 budget adjustment for the Fire Protection Fund and a $2.6 million capital outlay appropriation for additional initiatives.
Police Blotter: No Refund? Customer Take Cups, Silverware Instead
The Española Valley police blotter highlights criminal activity handled daily by local law enforcement, including officers from Española Police, Ohkay Owingeh Tribal Police, Rio Arriba County Sheriff's Office, and State Police. The reports provide residents an overview of public safety matters in...
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