By ERIC BILLINGSLEY Journal Staff Writer With Thanksgiving a fading memory and Christmas just around the corner, it's time to find that perfect Christmas tree. For some, the artificial tree is a practical option. It's easy to set up, not very messy and perfectly symmetrical.

By DON LAINE For the Journal Covering some 10,000 acres at elevations from about 9,000 feet to more than 12,000 feet, Rio Costilla Park offers a welcome escape from the rush of modern civilization.

By KARL F. MOFFATT, PHOTOS BY KARL F. MOFFATT Vidal: Special events are planned for July 21 There's a lot happening in the Valle Vidal this summer, including new fishing regulations, stream closures and a celebration of the pristine area's protected status.

A proposal to protect more than 300,000 acres of public land in north-central New Mexico from further development is a long way from being a done deal. Sen.

By JOHN ARNOLD Journal Staff Writer More than 300,000 acres of public land in north-central New Mexico would be protected from energy development and other "unforeseen threats," under legislation being drafted by Sen. Jeff Bingaman, D-N.M.