HISTORICAL SOCIETY NEWS RELEASE

“Legends and Lore” – a perfect topic for the month of October. In this case, it’s “Legends and Lore of the Pajarito Plateau,” to be presented by well-known local author, poet, educator, and veteran Mike Katko for the next edition of Los Alamos Historical Society (LAHS) free lecture series. 

Scheduled for Oct. 10 from 7 to 9 p.m. in Fuller Lodge, Katko’s talk will cover history of Valle Grande sheepherders who summered there, woven with Los Alamos Ranch School narratives and Peggy Pond Church’s poetry. Also included will be some history of the Plateau, with an emphasis on the lore. 

Available for viewing at the event will be LAHS Archives and Collections treasures – saddles known to belong to both Church and the Ranch School.  

Katko is an award-winning public-school teacher and principal and veteran of the United States Armed Forces. He has worked in construction and owned a restaurant, been a homebuilder, and served as chairman of the boards for both the Instructional Materials Commission and the Occupational Therapy Board in New Mexico. He also worked closely with the Eight Northern Pueblos for more than a decade. Now retired, he writes, lectures and consults on veteran, historical, and public-school issues. An avid skier and woodworker, Katko lives with his wife, Debbie, and their rescue dog, Lola. 

Those interested in learning more about the fascinating legends and lore of Northern New Mexico are invited to attend the lecture. Seating is limited and offered on a first-come, first-served basis.