New Mexico Woman, March/April 2020

FREE Women Making A Personal Difference

COURTHOUSE

CANINES PAGE 24

THE POWER OF NO WHY YOU SHOULD SAY IT MORE OFTEN PAGE 12

STAY OR SELL?

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Contents March/April

Volume 2, Number 2

24

Huggable Heroes Courthouse dogs provide heartfelt support.

Features

The dogs offer compassionate understanding, with no judgement or expectations. – Gina Yeager

PHOTO: SN Photography

By Robin Martinez

March/April 2020

3

Contents March/April

Departments

“The most daring and dangerous adventure is… other people.”

- Gretchen Rubin

20

10 SPECIAL SECTION

CURRENT OBSESSIONS

46

Affirmation Necklaces...... 10 Wood Flowers..................... 10 Humor....................................11 Book Review.........................11

BETTER LIVING

The Power of No.................12 Vacation Without Worry... 14 Spring Wardrobe Staple....16 Social Media Health...........18 16

32 Vivian Austin Insurance Agent 34

GIVING BACK

Jennifer Weiss-Burke........20 Hospice Volunteer..............21 Fresh Hope .........................22 Get Involved........................23

33 Jessica Tafoya & Brittany Bilek Restaurateurs

HOME SPACE

Classic Blue.........................34 Sell or Stay?.........................36 Rainbow Quinoa Salad..... 37

WELL BEING

Tired? Maybe It’s Hormones............................38 48

GOINGS ON

Calendar...............................42 Scene with NMW...............46

WHY NEW MEXICO?

Dalene Valdez.................... 48

4

New Mexico Woman

On the Cover Gina Yeager draws her inspiration from the dogs.

Photo: SN Photography Location: Roswell

March/April 2020

5

from the Publisher No Shortage of Good News

Women are making a difference in every corner of our state.

I am only one, but I am one.

I cannot do everything, but I can do something.

-– Edward Everett Hale

W

elcome Spring! And welcome to the new issue of New Mexico Woman magazine!

As we’re interviewing people for our articles in each issue, each one of them has another woman we should meet. The inspirational stories just keep coming!

And I think it’s needed. It can be easy to feel the effects of all the negative news we hear on a daily basis. What I love about undertaking this new magazine is that, if we just listen to people and hear their stories, there is a lot of good going on in our state as well.

Like Edward Everett Hale said, “I cannot do everything, but I can do something.”

My “something” is celebrating the women of New Mexico through this magazine, so others can be inspired, too.

In this issue, you’ll read about women helping in courtrooms, drug rehabilitation centers, with cancer patients and in hospice. They saw a need, and they stepped up to fill it. Keep your eyes open for where you can do the same.

And if you need a break from all of it, we’ve got tips on how to take a vacation without getting behind at work. I should have taken the writer’s advice, because my own recent vacation is still taking its toll at the office! But, somehow it all gets done, because that’s what we women do.

Thank you for continuing to support us, and for continuing to support the advertisers that make it possible.

Talk to you later!

6

New Mexico Woman

Rena Reiser Rena Reiser Publisher / Editor

Volume 2, Number 2 PUBLISHER/EDITOR

Rena Reiser VP OF SALES

Marty Ryan ACCOUNT EXECUTIVES

Lindsey Larrañaga Rebecca Lynch CONTRIBUTING WRITERS

Beverly Custer Nora Hickey Heather Hunter Hillary Ibarra Kelly Koepke Robin Martinez Jennifer Myers Lindsay Rutland Julie Schoen CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS

Kori Kobayashi Kelsey Moman Lindsay Rutland SN Photography ART DIRECTOR

Vicky Samala FIND US

nmwoman.com @nmwomanmag @nmwomanmag @nmwomanmag FOR ADVERTISING INQUIRIES, CONTACT US AT 505-985-0211 OR SALES@NMWOMAN.COM

New Mexico Woman magazine is published bimonthly by: NM Woman Media LLC PO Box 92800 Albuquerque, NM 87199 Phone: 505-985-0211 nmwoman.com New Mexico Woman reserves the right to deny any advertisement or listing that does not meet New Mexico Woman standards. Submissions are welcome, but unsolicited materials are not guaranteed to be returned. New Mexico Woman assumes no responsibility for information, products, services or statements made by advertisers or editorial contributors.

An advertised special printed in this publication is subject to change without notice. © 2020, All rights reserved. Reproduction in whole or in part without written permission from the publisher is prohibited.

March/April 2020

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New Mexico Woman

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Obsessions JEWELRY

10

| FLOWERS

10

| HUMOR

11

| BOOK REVIEW

11

March/April 2020

9

Obsessions

Current

JEWELRY | FLOWERS

PHOTOS: Court esy Dancing Tu rtle Studios

Affirmation Necklaces Enameled copper jewelry offers inspiration.

Michigan-native Cande Toner was living in Tennessee when she took an art class in enameling… “and it just stuck,” she says. Now living in Santa Fe, Cande operates Dancing Turtle Studios where she creates enameled copper pieces. Her inspirational necklaces start with stamped words on hand-cut, hand-painted copper tiles. The pieces are then sealed with transparent colored glass, fired at high heat to bring out deep, clear color. Custom orders are available in English, Chinese, Hebrew and Sanskrit.

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Wood Flowers

Custom arrangements to match your décor.

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PHOTOS: Courtesy Fitz Your Home

IG: @fitzyourhomellc

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New Mexico Woman

HUMOR

I’m a Salsa Snob

Is there a support group for this… with chips?

By Hillary Ibarra

BOOK REVIEW

Where the Crawdads Sing

by Delia Owens

G.P. PUTNAM’S SONS, $35

W

hile watching a commercial about some “popped,” “air-fried” or “baked” chips, I smugly commented to my husband, “I’ve never been a big chip person. Who cares what they do to them?”

“You mean as long as they don’t have salsa on them,” he stated pointedly.

I giggled, embarrassed. “Oh yeah! I guess I do eat a lot of tortilla chips.”

Eat a lot? That’s an understatement! I consider anything with “tortilla” in its name a major food group.

I was raised in Tennessee, but I married a New Mexico man. For the first 21 years of my life, I never knew what Hatch green chile was. Now I’m pretty sure those peppers can cure vertigo, sciatica and a tough case of the doldrums. I also didn’t believe salsa was a pantry staple. Now I feel deprived if I don’t have at least three varieties. “Red or green?” was once just an ugly Christmas sweater quandary. Now? It’s a vital decision that could change the

whole course of the day!

I’m tempted to say, “And I’ll take red chile with that!” even when ordering at a Chinese food restaurant. At home, green chile sauce is my go-to condiment. And it’s not just about bottled heat! I routinely burn my lips with grilled serranos that I slather on steak and chicken. Trust me when I state that if we ever run out of tortillas or Mexican four-cheese blend in this house — the vital accompaniments for our salsas and sauces — I’ll know Armageddon is upon us!

Shamefully, while visiting other people’s homes, I can’t help but judge their taste by the quality of their salsa. Instead of snooping in their medicine cabinets, I slyly rummage around in their pantries, snickering whenever I find anything labeled “mild” or “medium.”

Where is that girl from Tennessee who appreciated bland food and ate ordinary white bread with her meat?

Too many tortilla chips with salsa did her in!

Author Delia Owens conjures the beloved beaches and marshlands of the Carolinas from a Pat Conroy novel in her latest release, “Where the Crawdads Sing.”

The story begins with six-yearold Kya watching her mother walk out of the family’s shack in the boggy backwoods of the North Carolina coast, and out of her life, leaving Kya and her five older siblings in the care of their abusive, alcoholic father.

One by one, each of them would eventually abandon her, taking the same muddy road out of the marsh that her mother walked years prior.

Skillfully escaping child welfare workers at every turn, Kya manages to forge a life for herself among the inlets and lagoons, using her father’s old motorboat.

She becomes a self-educated expert on the nature and wildlife of the region, accumulating a treasure trove of shells, seabird feathers and botanical specimens.

Secluded from most of society who only knows of her as the “Marsh Girl,” Kya becomes the unwitting focus of a murder investigation that may take her away from her beloved paradise in the swamp forever.

Reese Witherspoon says of the beautifully written mystery and Reese’s Book Club choice, “I didn’t want this story to end!”

My sentiments exactly.

- Review by Beverly Allen Custer March/April 2020

11

Living

Better

SELF

12

| TRAVEL

14

| STYLE

16

| TECHNOLOGY

18

Saying

The Power of No Why you should say it more often.

By Kelly Koepke

“ NO” Gracefully Practice Standard Phrases “I need to think about it,” or “I’d rather say ‘no’ now than disappoint you later,” or “I understand you’re in a bind, and I’d help if I could.”

Don’t Give a Reason

M

any women, have a hard time saying “no.” We’re often taught to be people pleasers, don’t want to disappoint or rock the boat, making declining requests difficult.

But saying “no” to things we’d prefer not to do — whether that’s volunteering at the latest school event, taking another work project or even going to dinner with friends — can be bad for us! We can feel invisible, like our wishes don’t matter or that we’re being taken advantage of.

Kelly Chisholm, board-certified counselor and owner of Albuquerque Family Counseling, points to our fast-paced culture as exacerbating the stress of constant “yessing.”

“Technology — texting, emailing and social media — forces us to make decisions quickly.

That means there’s a lot more ‘yessing’ going on; it’s easy to reply without thinking. But when we say ‘yes’ too often, we start to feel resentment and stress with yet another thing added to our plates.”

Saying “no” is more intentional because we are thinking about our own needs. From the recipient’s perspective, the person saying “no” has self respect, self esteem, probably has goals and clearly set boundaries, she adds.

That’s not what goes through our heads, though. Brain science tells us that there is a reason we don’t want to say “no” — it can

12

New Mexico Woman

open an emotional rabbit hole. We may fear disappointing or hurting someone, causing a problem or somehow jeopardizing a relationship.

According to Psychology Today, there’s a different neurological process going on for the recipient of the “no.” We’re wired to respond to “no” more strongly than “yes,” in what is called the brain’s negativity bias. Simply put, “no” hurts the person who hears it, no matter how gently it’s given.

Saying “no” gives your “yesses” more value and credibility. It sets a good example of boundaries, and teaches people how to treat you. It may even give someone else the opportunity to shine. For example, a business owner should say “no” to doing tasks her employees can. That gives her the opportunity to say “yes” to other things that will grow the company.

“We coach our clients with some phrases that allow them to take a step back and think about the question,” continues Chisholm.

“Saying ‘no’ reduces their anxiety and stress because they feel more in control of their schedule and themselves.”

By being selective, we save ourselves from the stress and resentment of doing things we don’t want to do. We can do it gracefully and with the full knowledge that we are doing what’s best for us.

Stating why you’re declining gives the other person an opening to answer your objection.

Don’t let them.

Stand Your Ground Persistent people will ask again. By the second time you decline, most will back off.

Offer an Alternative Choose something more preferable to you — a coffee date instead of dinner or a movie.

Remember This A quote from Mahatma Ghandi: “A ‘no’ uttered from the deepest conviction is better than a ‘yes’ merely uttered to please, or worse, to avoid trouble.”

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13

Living

Better

TRAVEL

How to vacation without falling behind at work Tips to avoid the ‘I need a vacation from my vacation’ syndrome.

By Jennifer Myers

E

veryone can appreciate the value of a wellearned vacation — getting away and spending time with loved ones brings refreshment and rejuvenation, deepens your connections and makes you happier overall. So why do so many Americans leave vacation days unused at the end of each year?

14

New Mexico Woman

Stepping away from your work can seem nearly impossible, but even worse is the feeling of returning from a much-needed vacation only to find yourself buried and behind. Instead of feeling refreshed, you come back anxious and overwhelmed. How can you vacation responsibly without falling behind at

work? Here are a few tips.

Prepare Well in Advance No matter your position in an organization, it’s best to schedule your vacation well in advance — four to six months is generous — and to travel at a time when you’re least needed. If there is a seasonal lull in your

Set yourself up for a painless re-entry to work.

industry, plan to get away then. Colleagues appreciate communication, so when you work to coordinate with your colleagues’ vacation plans, the overall attitude toward your stepping away will likely be more positive.

Over-Deliver Before You Leave The outcome you desire is twofold: the ability to leave for vacation without worrying that you forgot something, and the ability to return from your vacation without feeling regret and overwhelm. The secret is to leave as few things outstanding or in progress as you can.

Where possible, finish projects that involve only you.

For ongoing projects that might not be able to wait for your return, delegate.

Leave notes regarding each project’s current status along with key contact information for whomever will be assisting while you’re away.

The more organized, thorough and clear you can be in your instructions, the more indispensable you’ll appear.

If you’re in customer service, then you must absolutely over-deliver for your customers. One surefire way to come back to chaos is to leave your customers with unanswered questions or confusion. Make sure you’ve communicated the dates of

your travel clearly to your customers in advance, along with contact information should they need assistance before your return. Don’t let them accidentally discover your absence for the first time as they hear your voicemail recording or read your out-of-office email autoreply.

Give them the courtesy of advance awareness, offering to deal with any pressing issues, and that thoughtfulness will keep most customers content while you’re enjoying some much-needed respite.

Clean Your Desk Though you might feel frenzied just before your vacation, do not leave your desk or workspace in chaos.

File any stray papers, empty your garbage and clear away any piles. It will make your transition back into the office smoother.

Ditch the Phone Despite the magnetic attraction your phone and email might have while sipping an umbrella-drink from a lounge chair, resist.

When you’ve worked hard to prepare for your vacation well in advance, overdelivered in your performance and left behind order, you have positioned yourself to relax and enjoy your time away without worry.

The outcome is twofold: the ability to leave for vacation without worry, and the ability to return without regret.

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Living

Better

STYLE

g n ri p S e b o r d War le p a t SI

The CLASSIC Denim Jacket

By Lindsay Rutland

f you could pick one piece of clothing to have in your closet as a spring wardrobe staple, what would it be? For me, it doesn’t get any better than a classic denim jacket. It can be thrown on over almost any outfit and is universally flattering! Here are three easy styling options for spring.

Jeans: Old Navy Jacket: JCrew Striped Top: BP (Nordstrom) Sunglasses: Quay Australia Heels: 1. State

PHOTO: Lindsay Rutland

Pins: Rifle Paper Co., ban.do, Josie B., David Santiago (local artist)

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1. Make it work appropriate. If you’re unable to wear jeans to work, why not include denim in your outerwear? Add a denim jacket to a straight leg or skinny pair of black pants, a striped top, and a great pair of heels or flats.

Add a statement earring or necklace.

2. Pair with joggers for athleisure. Help elevate a simple look of joggers, sneakers and a basic top with a classic denim jacket. Pin a few enamel pins to the lapel for a little extra fun!

3. Layer over a maxi dress. Spring brings cool mornings and warmer days. Adding a denim jacket to a maxi dress is an easy day-to-night option. Accessorize more or less, depending on the occasion. I personally love the look of a flowy dress with a pair of ankle boots for a boho feel.

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Living

Better

TECHNOLOGY

Create a healthy relationship with social media.

By Nora Hickey

Happily Connected

S

ocial media, by definition, is technology that helps people connect, share and create across miles and topics. Sounds pretty great, right? Well, the reality of is a bit murkier, with studies showing the negative effects of using that glowing screen always at our side. So, as we are compelled to log on, swipe through and post, how can we manage social media use in our own home?

Start with Observation Albuquerque clinical counselor Joshua Newman, LPCC, increasingly counsels clients about technology. “Attempting to have a healthy relationship with technology and social media starts with being intentional and mindful,” he says.

To start to understand your own unique relationship to it, Newman recommends tracking. “Don’t try to change anything.

Just observe your usage habits, as a scientist would observe an object of study, and then make notes. For example, how much time are you spending on said activity, how do you feel before, during and after, etc. Once you have some baseline data, then you can begin to identify what changes you hope to make,” he says.

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New Mexico Woman

Create a Plan of Action Once you have an understanding of your own usage, you can take steps to modify it.

Some strategies involve setting boundaries with your phone, whether it’s designating one day a week off from something you spend too much time on, or establishing a bedtime for your phone. You can also get an “unplug box” — a container to physically put your phone in. There are many available on Etsy or make your own!

If you have kids, a straightforward way to control use is to set up some rules around technology, like no devices overnight, or at other specific times like during meals. Newman also encourages parents to be involved in their child’s online life. “I think it’s very important for parents to enter into their children’s digital worlds. Parents need to be curious about what games their kids are playing, and what sites they are visiting. Have conversations. Explore media together. After all, a strong and trusting relationship between parent and child is the most powerful resource a parent can have.”

There’s an App for That Ironically, apps can be a great help when creating a healthy relationship with social media. One local lawyer and mom of a 13-year-old boy uses OurPact app for blocking and scheduling phones.

OurPact is one of the most-used parental control and locator apps. “In addition to content-based blocking, I can schedule times his phone only works for calls and texts — no data or pictures,” she says. Other popular parental apps include Net Nanny Parental Control and Kaspersky Safe Kids.

For adults, too, apps can be a huge help in limiting the distraction of social media. The Freedom app allows users to block specific sites and apps for a fixed amount of time. Another app called Space is a “personalized behavior change program” that aims to help people find the right time-balance with their phone.

As social media and technology become inextricably linked with our lives, more tools and solutions are being created to help us achieve a happy and healthy relationship.

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Back

Giving

JENNIFER WEISS-BURKE

20

| VOLUNTEERING

21

| DIFFERENCE MAKERS

22

| GET INVOLVED

23

By the Numbers THE NEED:

537

People died of drug overdose in New Mexico in 2018

2 IN 3

Drug overdose deaths in the state that involve an opioid (prescription or illegal)

PHOTO: New Mexico Woman

2X

Youth who abuse substances are twice as likely to commit crimes and end up in jail

82

Average number of opioid pills a patient receives to manage pain following surgery

IMPACT:

65

Individuals who received services at Serenity Mesa in 2019

171

Youth have received treatment since opening in 2015

20

New Mexico Woman

Jennifer Weiss-Burke What is Serenity Mesa?

In 2011, Jennifer Weiss-Burke started a mission to create something she wishes had existed for her son — that mission became Serenity Mesa Recovery Center.

Her son, Cameron, was a high school athlete. He had a sports injury, and was given prescription opiates for pain.

He became addicted to the pain killers — then to heroin. He died of a drug overdose in August 2011.

“I was so frustrated,” Jennifer says.

“I noticed the difference in him as he became addicted, and we tried to navigate treatment. But there wasn’t adequate treatment for youth who were struggling with addiction. Three to four weeks treatment was the average.” Now

Jennifer knows that successful treatment of meth or heroin addiction can take much longer — up to a year.

Serenity Mesa opened in May 2015 as a residential sober-living facility, offering long-term addiction treatment (90+ days) for young people age 14-21.

Individualized programs include sober living, counseling, life skills and education. “We do a lot of relapse prevention,” Jennifer says, “preparing them for how they will handle drug encounters once they leave here.”

Cameron’s memorial, and those for 15 others, appears on Serenity Mesa’s website. In his memory, Jennifer now also lobbies for opioid alternatives for medical pain management.

Jennifer Weiss-Burke EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR SERENITY MESA “It’s not just about the drug, but it is about the recovery.”

VOLUNTEERING

The Gift of Hospice Celebrating life through love.

Want to Volunteer?

The requirements to be a hospice volunteer vary by organization, but can include individuals from teens to octogenarians. The spectrum is wide and everyone is welcome, because we will all need a special person to be with us when we are dying.

By Heather Hunter

“D

eath is not scary,” says Ambercare hospice volunteer Ann Patterson. It’s merely the polar opposite of living and it’s as natural as birth. Every day, each and every one of us inches closer to our mortality. Talking about death, being with others in their final stage of life and understanding that death can be a beautiful experience are a few of the reasons hospice is life-changing — for the patient, their families, the medical team and the volunteers.

Hospice is a non-profit service often recommended for people with a life expectancy of less than six months and an incurable illness. Hospice focuses on pain management, comfort and preserving the patient’s dignity. This service can take place in a home, assisted living facility or someplace else entirely. A team of doctors, nurses, social workers, clerics, therapists and volunteers participate in the care of the hospice patients and their families.

“When in the presence of someone as they near death and as they pass on, this is our chance to be our most vulnerable selves — our best selves,” says Jonathan Maestas, volunteer coordinator for Hospice of New Mexico.

On Becoming a Hospice Volunteer Volunteer requirements vary, but typically it is a commitment of one to two hours a week per patient. While some volunteers have several patients, one patient at a time is typical.

Patterson shines a light on how this experience is all about love. It’s what she saw at the end of her own mother’s life when hospice cared as much for her mother as for her family.

“You learn great humility, and you feel honored to be a part of this incredible experience to help people go on to their next chapter surrounded by love,” Patterson says.

Genuine Love for Others Jenny Carian, Ambercare Hospice’s Volunteer We Honor Veterans Coordinator, says, “Empathy is great, but volunteers need to have a genuine love for others.

Hospice isn’t the end of the road, it’s a celebration of life.”

It is an intimate time that requires serious listening skills — literally “being” with those who are in their final stage of life and comforting them. Whether that is by reading stories or letting them tell you about the best memories of their lives, playing music, singing and letting them know they are loved and valued.

“Time is the most expensive gift we can offer others,” Maestas says. “Anything you give your time to, you give life to.”

“Death doesn’t have to be morbid or sad,” he continues. “It can and should be celebrated. As a hospice volunteer, you will learn more about yourself than the person you are sitting with and that, in turn, is priceless.”

AMBERCARE

www.ambercare.com

COMPASSUS

www.compassus.com

Heartland Hospice

www.heartlandhospice.com/ Albuquerque

Hospice of New Mexico hospiceofnewmexico.com

Presbyterian Healthcare Services www.phs.org

March/April 2020

21

Giving

Back

DIFFERENCE MAKERS

Fresh Hope for Cancer Patients Hobbs woman comforts with lovefilled backpacks.

L

isa McNeill was preparing lunch for the crew on her family’s cattle ranch near Hobbs in the summer of 2017 when she got the call from her doctor.

“You could’ve blown me over with a feather when he told me that I had breast cancer,” she says. “I was sure it was

just a cyst.”

As she hung up the phone, Lisa’s mind raced. “How do I start? Who do I call?

I was lost,” she says. She underwent a year’s worth of chemotherapy, radiation and surgery. After her treatment, she told her pastor at Crosswinds Community Church

A Fresh Hope backpack, filled with care items.

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New Mexico Woman

The Fresh Hope Ministry at Crosswinds Community Church in Hobbs. Front row from left, Roberta Henderson, Evelyn Pereda, Lisa McNeill and Carla Whitley. Back row from left Frances Horton, Waynette Lester, Mick Cavanaugh, Yusheng Wu and Jim Horton. Inset, Hayden Andrews, Light of Lea County.

I want to help relieve some of their worries once they’ve received that initial diagnosis.

- Lisa McNeill

that she wanted to start a ministry for their congregation, to help any of the members who were diagnosed with cancer so they wouldn’t be as lost as she was. Her pastor was supportive — and Fresh Hope was born.

“When you go in for cancer treatments, there are things that you take with you, and things you find later that you should’ve taken,” Lisa says. “So, I wanted to create a backpack of items that I found helpful.” Fresh Hope backpacks include things like thick socks, soothing lotion, a journal with pens and highlighters to record thoughts or questions for doctors, spearmint gum for nausea, hand sanitizer and a face mask for germ fighting, and laminated cards with scriptures and words of encouragement.

“Once we started, I found out about an organization called Light of Lea County,”

Lisa says. They offer financial assistance for cancer patients, helping with groceries, transportation and lodging for treatment, and utilities.

“I didn’t know about Light of Lea County when I was diagnosed, so I was sure others didn’t,” she says. Lisa called Light of Lea County’s founder Hayden Andrews, and they decided to work together.

“With their support, we can now supply backpacks to all county residents diagnosed with cancer — not just those in our church,” says Lisa, who now serves on Hayden’s board of directors.

Fresh Hope and Light of Lea County are now helping 50 to 60 cancer patients each month. “I just want people to be aware of the local support that’s available,” Lisa says. “I want to help relieve some of their worries once they’ve received that initial diagnosis.”

GET INVOLVED

Update Your Home for Spring!

Get Involved Looking for ways to make a difference?

Support the causes you care about.

Albuquerque Involved

Crossroads for Women

Give, vote and serve with your membership in Albuquerque Involved. We make it easy for members to learn about nonprofits in our community.

Each month, all member contributions are combined and awarded as a grant to one local nonprofit agency.

As a member, you get to vote on which agency receives the donation, and incorporate new service projects into your busy life.

(505) 695-2613 108 Wellesley Dr. SE Albuquerque, NM 87106 admin@abqinvolved.org abqinvolved.org

Crossroads for Women provides comprehensive, integrated services to empower women emerging from incarceration to achieve safe, healthy, and fulfilling lives in the community, for themselves and their children.

Established in 1997, we provide housing and services in seven domains: legal, independent living, medical, substance abuse, mental health, vocational and family.

(505) 242-1010 805 Tijeras Ave. NW Albuquerque, NM 87102 info@crossroadsabq.org crossroadsabq.org

Casa Esperanza

Tewa Women United

A home away from home supporting families facing cancer and other serious medical needs. We provide appropriate housing and emotional support for patients and their families who reside temporarily in Albuquerque while the patient receives treatment.

(505) 246-2700 1005 Yale Blvd. NE Albuquerque, NM 87106 info@casanm.org casanm.org

Children’s Cancer Fund of New Mexico From the moment a New Mexico child is diagnosed with cancer, the Children’s Cancer Fund of New Mexico is there to help by providing the day-to-day needs to alleviate the emotional and financial burdens of childhood cancer. Donations are used to provide programs and services to children with cancer and their families ensuring that every child will receive the highest quality of care as they face the battle of their lives. Established in 1972, the CCFNM serves over 300 children and their families each year.

(505) 243-3618 112 14th St. SW Albuquerque, NM 87102 ccfnm@ccfnm.org ccfnm.org

Located in the ancestral Tewa homelands of Northern New Mexico, Tewa Women United is a multicultural and multiracial organization founded and led by Native women.

To navigate the challenges we all face — climate change, economic injustice, increasing polarization and conflict — it is critical to center and raise Indigenous voices, particularly the voices of Indigenous women.

(505) 747-3259 PO Box 397 Santa Cruz, NM 87567 info@tewawomenunited.org tewawomenunited.org

The Starting Line Created in spring 2017 by a group of Roswell women, the organization provides local women with professional attire, hair and makeup styling, interview and resume skills, and a supportive network of business women so that prospective workers can obtain employment, begin their professional advancement and become economically independent.

(575) 347-1407 thestartinglineroswell@gmail.com facebook.com/startinglineroswell/

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March/April 2020

23

Courthouse Ca Helping Victims Find Their Voices

By Robin Martinez

W

ithin 90 minutes of receiving the call, Gina and Lincoln were packed and leaving Roswell, their destination six hours away. With no idea of how long they’d be gone or who they might encounter, Gina knew only that people were hurting and she and Lincoln could help.

Gina Yeager, Victim’s Advocate with the Fifth Judicial District (encompassing Lea, Chaves and Otero counties) was bound for Aztec with Lincoln, a specially trained black Labrador. A school shooting at Aztec High School meant all-hands-on-deck. Counselors, therapists and CVRC (Crime Victim Reparation Commission) representatives were made available to the victims and the community, to assist with processing the emotions and fallout from the incident.

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New Mexico Woman

PHOTOS: SN Photography

anines

DA dogs Max (left) and Beaumont relax on the Roswell courthouse steps, ready for their duties as compassionate canine companions. Victim Advocate Gina Yeager (inset) is the executive officer of DA Court Facility Dogs Foundation.

March/April 2020

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The dogs know up to 90 commands, understand sign language and are drawn to the person who needs comfort or support.

- Gina Yeager

Gina — the court facility dog coordinator for the Fifth Judicial District and executive officer of DA Court Facility Dogs Foundation — knows the value Lincoln and other court facility dogs bring to a stressful situation. Their presence alone can instill confidence and provide compassion to victims struggling to find a voice.

“The dogs provide support, and help the witness or victim to gain and maintain a sense of control,” says Gina. “The dogs offer compassionate understanding, with no judgement or expectations.”

The court facility dog program began in the spring of 2014. Initially, dogs were borrowed from the CASA program (Court Appointed Special Advocates) and the expenses of caring for the dogs were financed within the state budget. In 2015, as budgetary constraints threatened the continuance of the program, Gina took the initiative to create the DA

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New Mexico Woman

Court Facility Dogs Foundation, a 501(c)(3) non-profit, dedicated to maintaining the program, caring for the dogs, and assuring victims of and witnesses to violent crimes a compassionate canine companion to walk with them through the difficulties of telling a horrific story, time and again.

The program no longer borrows dogs, but has their own dedicated canines. Though housed in the Fifth District, the dogs travel anywhere needed across the state. They’ve even crossed the state line to visit the victims of the Clovis library shooting, who were hospitalized in Lubbock.

Gina works closely with Santa Fe Assistance Dogs of the West to identify and train dogs for this important program. Dogs are identified as having potential while just puppies, then Assistance Dogs of the West (ADW) spends the next 18-24 months training the canine. Once trained, the dogs are matched to a handler who has also participated in extensive training. Such matching

At left, Beaumont provides stress relief for Deputy Silva (left) and Deputy Romero, of the Chaves County Sheriff’s Office, before greeting and comforting a witness. This page, Max provides heartfelt encouragement and support to a witness in the courtroom, sitting at her feet in the witness box.

March/April 2020

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Our number one goal is to support our communties.

– Gina Yeager

Gina enjoys some downtime with Lincoln, the organization’s first court facility dog. “He’s retired now, but he’s my inspiration,” she says. “He’s why this program grew. When he was working, he greeted everyone like they were there to see him.”

involves many meetings, one-on-one time, and close scrutiny to monitor compatibility between the two.

While on the job, each canine has a primary handler. These individuals are already employees of the District Attorney’s office, and the dog duties are added to their existing duties. Handlers must be willing to commit to a five-year term with the position, and a lifetime commitment to the dog.

The dogs are owned by ADW and leased to the state for a small fee, with the primary handler responsible for housing their dog. Secondary handlers are also taught to care for and encourage the dogs to perform as trained.

Gina explains further, “The dogs know up to 90 commands, understand sign language and tend to be drawn to the person who needs comfort or support.”

ADW provides the initial handler training for certification, then handlers are required to maintain their annual re-certification through ongoing education. Due to the affiliation with ADW, the courthouse dog program is nationally recognized by Assistance Dogs International, a worldwide coalition of non-profit programs that train and place assistance dogs. This affiliation promotes

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New Mexico Woman

standards of excellence in all areas of assistance dog acquisition, training and partnership, while educating the public to the benefits of assistance dogs.

“The dogs are trained to locate and respond to those who are most stressed in a situation,” says Gina. Once, while Gina was on a phone call, Lincoln jumped up from under her desk and ran down the hall. When Gina went looking for Lincoln, he was found with his head in the lap of a witness in another room. The witness had been hysterical only moments before, but she had quieted and was petting Lincoln, comforted by the dog’s presence.

As victim’s advocates, Gina and her counterparts across the state help victims and witnesses navigate the legal system, acting as a go-between for the victims, witnesses and attorneys, locating legal, financial, counseling, housing and medical services — whatever a victim or witness may need to address the trauma and stress associated with the situation. The courthouse canines are an integral part of the picture.

Gina recalls a senior student at Aztec High School who connected strongly with Lincoln. The student unloaded her thoughts and feelings on Lincoln, processing the traumatic events. Later,

the girl brought her parents back specifically to meet Lincoln, the dog who had brought her comfort earlier in the day.

At the sentencing hearing for the Clovis shooter, victims and witnesses had the support of Lincoln at their side while reading their impact statements.

Lincoln isn’t the only courthouse canine working in the Fifth District. Max and Beaumont work from the Chaves County courthouse, and Max’s twin sister McKenzie works from the Lea County location.

Courthouse dogs are also located in Taos, Alamogordo and Clovis. Lydia recently retired from service in Otero County.

In addition to their courthouse duties, the dogs are very visible within their respective communities. “Whether attending high school sporting events, leadership activities or charity events, the dogs are great ice-breakers,” says Gina. “Our number-one goal is to support our communities.”

Gina and her counterparts believe strongly in the benefits of the courthouse dogs program. When state funding was cut, many of the handlers bore the expense to maintain the dogs from their own pockets. Program needs are now met primarily through fundraising efforts. According to Gina, it costs around $10,000 for dog and handler to be trained, then approximately $5,000 annually to care for the dog, including food, vet care and grooming.

Current and past fundraising efforts for the courthouse dogs include salsa sales, an annual color run, dances, painting parties, wreath parties, garage sales and raffles.

Area veterinarians or pet supply companies contribute to defray the dog care expenses and private donations are always appreciated. The foundation maintains a website at www.5thDADogs.org where more information is available, including how to make private contributions.

When she’s not working with the dogs, Gina can be found hanging out with her favorite people — her husband of 21 years, Richard, their two adult children and three grandchildren, or coaching one of two youth teams in the city basketball league. A former regular on the drag racing circuit, Gina was known to drive a ’74 Mustang hatchback, affectionately dubbed the “Blue Beast.” Now her beasts are of the four-legged variety — three dogs, a horse, mini-horse, donkey, two mini-pigs and several cats, and of course, Lincoln.

Above, Beaumont and Max await their orders in the courtroom. Below, the board of DA Court Facility Dogs Foundation, (standing from left) Jessica Williams, Shawn Naranjo, Kristine Hernandez, (seated from left) Gina Yeager and Laine Martin. Not pictured Mary Pope, Cassie Serna, Taylor Jaggers, Lance Jaggers, Sarah Lewis.

March/April 2020

29

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WOMAN TO KNOW? Receive the recognition YOU deserve as one of New Mexico’s success stories.

Each month, New Mexico Woman features Women to Know in a beautiful special promotional section.

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NMW’s Women to Know section features New Mexico’s most empowering, encouraging and inspiring women. They embody what it truly means to be a New Mexico Woman making a difference.

Join the NMW tribe! Tell us your story and what makes you a New Mexico Woman.

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A SantaAsFe nativenurse, with 23 experience in insurance, Vivian’s philosophy to detail. She her husband have been expect buying and selling real estateyou, for your almost 40 years, became a is simple — treatand people how you would someone to treat family andand yourshefriends. licensed broker in 2018. Deb admits she may not have alleverything the answers, but she surrounds people she Knowing that an incident or accident can jeopardize you’ve worked for, herself Vivian with empowers respects who are great resources.

Her joytoinprotect serving others manifests itself in many ways, including beingRisk chosen individuals to make informed choices their assets.

She also is a Chartered Private the 2002 Chevrolet National successful Soccer Parent of the Yearprotect — whichtheir earned her a Chevy minivanneeds. and a trip to ConandasInsurance Advisor, helping individuals complex insurance Vivian necticut to seeas theaU.S. Women’s team play before they played in theChapter Olympicsof in American Greece. mentors others founding member of China the Phenomenal Women’s Business Women’s Association. She is happily married with two boys, a new daughter-in-law, two puppies and a grand dog. Her favorite getaway is spending time with family at her cabin outside of Pecos.

32 New Mexico Woman

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She serves on the School of Law Alumni the Albuquerque Association, schools sports organizations asthe well as donations contributions local andships as prowith bonoarea general counseland for New Mexico Legal Aid and Domestic Violence and Resource Center. Shetoalso charities. for stopping in and being partSam of enjoys our journey.

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OWNERS, TITLE SUNNYSIDE UP

March/April 2020

33

Space

HOME

HOME

34

| REAL ESTATE

36

| RECIPE

37

PHOTO: Credit Namesake

For over 20 years, Pantone’s “Color of the Year” has influenced product development and purchasing decisions in multiple industries, including fashion and home furnishings.

34

New Mexico Woman

Classic Blue

Instilling calm, confidence and connection, this enduring blue highlights our desire for a dependable and stable foundation.

The Pantone “Color of the Year� for 2020 is Classic Blue. Imprinted in our psyches as a restful color, Classic Blue brings a sense of peace and tranquility. In your home, consider painting Classic Blue on an accent wall, or

PHOTOS: stock.adobe.com

using the bold blue color to make a statement on furniture, cabinets or tile.

March/April 2020

35

HOMESpace

REAL ESTATE

Should You Sell or Stay?

Tips for When to Love It, When to List It.

By Nora HIckey

A

home is never simply a place to eat and sleep in between a busy life, but a space to live and make memories. Because a home bears the marks of each unique inhabitant, the question of whether to stay or move is often a difficult one. There are multiple, valid reasons for both. With the help of Liz Schichtel from Realty One New Mexico, who has helped clients make these decisions in Albuquerque for years, we’ve come up with some reasons for both.

the 1960s and ’70s, and now they are selling and moving. Younger people are coming in and renovating them,” Schichtel notes.

• You want to change areas for schools, better commute time or other resources.

• You aren’t able to renovate because of regulations from the city or an HOA (Home Owners Association). Or, renovations you desire are physically impossible on your existing house.

When to Sell

When to Stay

• If the market is in your favor. “The first thing I always do is run a market analysis — what you owe on the home and closing costs — to see if you would be able to sell your home. I also look at the year you bought it and what the market is looking like now. Here in Albuquerque, our market has been steadily climbing for five years, so it’s a seller’s market,” Schichtel explains.

• Your lifestyle is changing, which means your home is getting too big or too small. “A lot of people bought homes in

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New Mexico Woman

• Your home equity has the potential to go up. This happens when the homeowner’s interest in the home increases due to the property value going up, and/or the mortgage being paid down.

You could also borrow against home equity to make renovations, and earn a higher resale price.

• You live in an area of scarcity. If you live in an older neighborhood, you often won’t be able to re-create that exact house style, street design, tree age and more. “We can say that there are

parts of an area that will always retain their value because of scarcity. These older houses can’t be remade anymore,” Schichtel says.

• You can renovate your current home to fit your changing needs — to accommodate kids or aging in place.

• You probably won’t see the money you put into renovation back from a sale. “If you put $50,000 into the home, realistically you’re probably not going to make all of it back — depending on where it’s located,” Schichtel says.

• It’s the wrong season to sell. “It’s always better to sell in spring and summer,” Schichtel notes. “June and July are when we have a good bump in real estate.”

Can’t Decide?

And, there is one solution for those who just can’t decide: renting. If it’s not a good time to sell, you may want to hang onto the house and work with a company to rent it while home values go up or upgrades can be made.

RECIPE

Rainbow Quinoa Grain Bowl Salad

O

ften referred to as a super-grain, quinoa is high in fiber and protein. It also packs in iron and potassium, and is naturally gluten-free.

Quinoa cooks up like rice and has a mild, nutty flavor and a light, fluffy texture similar to couscous. You can find it next to other grains in health-food stores and your supermarket. Add quinoa to a variety of colorful veggies for a light, palate-pleasing salad.

1/2 cup raw quinoa 1 cup water 1/8 teaspoon salt 1 each red and yellow bell peppers 1 small carrot 1/2 cup snap peas 1/4 head red cabbage 1/2 bunch scallions or green onions 1/2 cup raisins 1/2 cup sunflower seeds 1 cup Lemon Vinaigrette (see below) Lemon Vinaigrette 1 ounce lemon juice 1 ounce cider vinegar 2 teaspoons onion, minced 1/2 teaspoon garlic, minced 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard 6 ounces salad oil (3/4 cup) 1 teaspoon salt (to taste) 1/4 teaspoon black pepper (to taste)

1

Cook quinoa. Follow package directions or your favorite method, otherwise mix quinoa with water and salt in small pot, bring to a boil. Reduce heat, cover with lid and steam for about 15-20 minutes or until all the water is absorbed. Turn off heat. Fluff with a fork, and cover for 10 more minutes.

2

Mix vinaigrette. There are many ways to mix a salad dressing. When cooking at home, we like to put all ingredients in a mason jar and shake vigorously. This way we can make a bigger batch and have some in the fridge for next time. Taste it. Is it perfect? Maybe add a touch more salt or a tablespoon of honey?

3

Recipe courtesy of Rhubarb & Elliott.

Rhubarb & Elliott provides thoughtful, made-from-scratch food to thousands of students, faculty and staff at local schools, and also operates a café in Albuquerque’s Jewish Community Center.

Servings: 10

Prepare the veggies. Rinse all vegetables in cold water.

Cut the bell peppers into quarters, remove seeds and white pith with your hands first, then pare out the rest with a small knife. Cut into a small dice, about 1/2” squares. Cut carrot lengthwise into quarters. Then cut the long quarters into 1/4” quarter circles.

Cut each snap pea into two or three pieces. Cut cabbage into 1/2” pieces.

Slice the scallions or green onions into thin rounds. Toast sunflower seeds on a dry metal baking sheet at 350° F for 6-10 minutes.

4

Mix everything together.

Dig in and enjoy!

March/April 2020

37

Being

well

Tired All the Time?

Maybe It’s Hormones.

By Julie Schoen

“H

ey there! How are you?”

“Oh, you know, good — tired.”

“Yep, me too.”

“Will we ever not be tired?”

“Probably not.”

For a lot of women, a typical greeting seems to follow this script. While we feel fine, so many of us are constantly plagued by the feeling of being too tired, lacking energy and motivation, and suffering from that nebulous “fatigue fog” that keeps us from feeling our best. In fact, this feeling has become so normal that most of us have become accustomed to living in a perpetually tired state.

Can we even remember what it feels like to not be tired?

According to a lot of the latest research, this fatigue felt by so many women could be caused by hormones. The adrenals in particular, which are glands that sit on top of the kidneys, produce hormones that deal with adrenalin, noradrenalin, and our fight-or-flight reactions. Your adrenals are also intimately connected to your circadian rhythm — when they’re functioning properly, it’s much easier to fall asleep at night and wake up in the morning. Many experts agree that if your adrenals are being overtaxed, it will leave you and your body running on “low voltage.”

While the symptoms of this type of hormone imbalance vary, they can include: • general lack of energy • insomnia or trouble sleeping • headaches • foggy mind • depression • decreased immune system • joint pain

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New Mexico Woman

• trouble with digestion • weight gain • mood swings and irritability But, because the adrenals are connected with almost every organ in the body, adrenal fatigue — as it’s often called — can have a whole host of seemingly unrelated side effects, including things like infertility and anemia.

Because so many other factors also can create these symptoms, it’s difficult to know when it’s your hormones or when it’s something else. Feeling tired can, of course, also be caused by our daily habits and routines. Things like a poor diet, allergies, too much screen time, extreme diets, stress and simply not getting enough sleep can account for a lot women’s complaints about fatigue.

That’s exactly why, for so many of us, we just learn to cope with feeling constantly tired.

This, however, can be dangerous. Not only does constantly feeling tired impact the quality of your day-to-day life, but it also directly impacts your health. If you feel like you’re constantly running on empty and/or identify with any of the other symptoms listed above, then it’s a good idea to consult with a doctor or hormone specialist. If it is a hormone imbalance causing these symptoms, then there’s actually quite a lot that can be done to help you feel more like yourself, including natural supplements and other holistic options.

Constantly feeling tired or fatigued should not become a normal part of life for you — and it’s definitely not just something that happens as you get older. Whether it’s caused by a hormone imbalance or not, know that there’s almost always something you can do to feel better. The trick is to get started and not wait for things to get worse.

The trick is to get started and not wait for things to get worse.

March/April 2020

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N E W

M E X I C O

C U S T O M

H A N D M A D E

J E W E L R Y

Kay Frances Designs JOIE DE VIVRE • Earrings • Bracelet

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• Necklace • Rings

On

Goings

CALENDAR

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| SCENE WITH NMW

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March/April 2020

41

On

Goings

CALENDAR

THROUGH APRIL 19

THE BIRTH, DEATH AND RESURRECTION OF CHRIST: FROM MICHELANGELO TO TIEPOLO

Have An Event?

Tell us about your event, when and where it is, and we’ll consider featuring it in our calendar!

Submit all events to events@nmwoman.com nmwoman.com |

42

New Mexico Woman

@nmwomanmag

This traveling exhibition of more than fifty drawings and prints, organized by the British Museum from their extensive collection, tells the story of Italian art beginning with the Renaissance and ending in the 18th century through an examination of how artists have depicted the saga of Christ. With works from artists including Michelangelo, Fra Bartolommeo, Parmigianino and Fra Filippo Lippi, this exhibition is a survey of over 400 years of Italian art history.

10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Tuesday through Sunday; $7-$12 New Mexico Museum of Art 107 West Palace Avenue, Santa Fe nmartmuseum.org

MARCH 1-15

NEW MEXICO RESTAURANT WEEK

A highly anticipated culinary event! March 1-8 in Los Alamos/Northern New Mexico; March 8-15 in Albuquerque.

Most participating restaurants will present a prix-fixe dinner of three courses (appetizer, entrée and dessert).

Various locations and times; $15-$45 per person newmexicorestaurantweek.com

MARCH 13-15

RIO GRANDE ARTS & CRAFTS FESTIVAL

True to tradition, artists will travel from all corners of the country to show and sell their work. Browse a unique mix of contemporary art and traditional crafts from 200 juried exhibitors representing a unique variety of original works including paintings, jewelry, clothing, photography, pottery and more.

10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Friday and Saturday, 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.

Sunday; $8-$12 Expo New Mexico 300 San Pedro Dr. NE, Albuquerque riograndefestivals.com

We’re More Than Just Jerky

MARCH 20-22 TREASURES OF THE EARTH 2020: GEM, MINERAL AND JEWELRY EXPO

Over 50 dealers selling everything from amethyst cathedrals to Zebra rock, rocks and minerals inexpensive to moderately priced. You will find gems, decorator items, jewelry, books and supplies, beads and lots more. Three silent auctions per day.

10 a.m. to 6 p.m. Friday and Saturday, 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.

Sunday; $5 Creative Arts Center Expo New Mexico 300 San Pedro Dr. NE, Albuquerque agmc.info

MARCH 21 9TH ANNUAL RECYCLOTHES

Every year, thousands of students in the Albuquerque area go without basic necessities.

Recyclothes is a clothing drive that directly benefits those students, presented by Keep Albuquerque Beautiful, Locker

505 and Hinkle Family Fun Center. As you spring clean your closets, set aside clean, gently used clothes to benefit the lives of Albuquerque students.

Participants who bring a large bag(s) of clean, gently used clothes will receive two free mini golf passes.

8 a.m. to 1 p.m.

Hinkle Family Fun Center 12931 Indian School Rd. NE, Albuquerque facebook.com/ events/543860156218925/

MARCH 26

Female Owned

• Custom Gift Baskets 22 Years in • New Mexico Products Business • Local Artists • New Mexico’s Finest Beef Jerky • Souvenirs

505-869-6650

Support Small ________ Support Local

335 Bosque Farms Blvd. • Bosque Farms Fri 10am-6pm • Sat & Sun 10am-5pm • Mon 10am-6pm

12TH ANNUAL WOMEN IN TECHNOLOGY AWARDS

Each year, New Mexico Technology Council recognizes outstanding women in STEM for their contributions to their field and the community. Join us as we celebrate our 2020 award honorees!

7:30 to 10:30 a.m.; $55-$75 Albuquerque Marriott Pyramid North 5151 San Francisco Rd. NE, Albuquerque nmtechcouncil.org

March/April 2020

43

Where to Find

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APRIL 4

2020 FIESTAS DE ALBUQUERQUE

Celebrate Albuquerque’s birthday and enjoy the history and traditions of our city with free children’s activities, live artist demonstrations, local food, shopping and fun for the whole family. Fiestas de Albuquerque will feature live entertainment performed by a variety of local talent including headliner, Gonzalo.

Noon to 5 p.m.; Free Old Town Plaza 200 N. Plaza St. NW, Albuquerque cabq.gov

APRIL 24-25

APRIL 29

MINDS INTERRUPTED

A fundraising evening of heartfelt stores of lives affected by mental illness, with a silent auction and food. The performance is presented by Breaking the Silence NM, and is dedicated to Ken Sanchez, former president of Albuquerque City Council for his support of their work. Breaking the Silence NM is a program that goes into schools to educate about mental illness and suicide awareness.

5 to 8 p.m.; $15 South Broadway Cultural Center 1025 Broadway Blvd. SE, Albuquerque breakingthesilencenm.org

GATHERING OF NATIONS POW WOW

nmwoman.com |

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New Mexico Woman

@nmwomanmag

North America’s biggest Pow Wow! Competition Native American singing and dancing, featuring over 3,000 participants from various tribes. Indian Traders’ Market (over 400 arts and crafts vendors), Native Food Court and more. Also, the crowning of Miss Indian World.

There is a “Magic” about the Gathering! A family friendly event, open to the public. $15-$75 Tingley Coliseum Expo New Mexico 300 San Pedro Dr. NE, Albuquerque gatheringofnations.com

FOR MORE CALENDAR EVENTS NEAR YOU, GO TO NMWOMAN.COM

NORTH AMERICAN INDIAN WOMEN’S ASSOCIATION (NAIWA)

50 ANNUAL CONFERENCE TH

JUNE 23-25, 2020

FULL PAGE AD “NAIWA 1970-2020 - Empowering & Strengthening the Spirit of Native American Women Past, Present & Future” p. 45

New Mexico Members of North American Indians Women's Association

HOTEL ALBUQUERQUE AT OLD TOWN • ALBUQUERQUE, NEW MEXICO The 50th annual conference this year will be held in Albuquerque, NM and will promote the 5 purposes of NAIWA which are: To promote intertribal communications; Betterment of home, family life and community; Betterment of health and education; Awareness of Indian cultures and Fellowship among peoples. The conference will be hosted by the New Mexico Chapter and Navajo Nation Chapter of NAIWA and the conference theme is: “NAIWA 1970–2020 – Empowering & Strengthening the Spirit of Native American Women – Past, Present & Future”. All women are invited to attend and all donations are welcome.

Conference information (registration, speaker applications, vendor, donations & membership) can be found on www.NAIWANM.org and contacts are: Kaitlyn Sanders, 505-554-8842 & Marla Pardilla, 505-269-2548.

This Page Sponsored by Montech Inc.

March/April 2020

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On

Goings

SCENE WITH NMW

Walk Like MADD

| SEPTEMBER 28, 2019 | ALBUQUERQUE

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1 This is the tenth year that Gabe’s Gang has participated in the Mothers Against Drunk Driving event, Walk Like MADD. Pictured are Dorian, Diana and Donna Tapia. 2 The largest team at the 2019 Walk Like MADD event was the Parnall Law team. Pictured are Cassandra Nair, Holly Bennett, Kimberley Vega and Sheneille Wilson. 3 Representing the Parnall Law Walk Like MADD team were Jennifer Bitsoih, Janeisha Brown and Jalijah Bitsoih. 4 Representing Team Jacob’s Journey were Andrea Garcia, Mari Salazar, Dolly Salazar, Christy Vigil and Alice Martinez. 5 Bert Parnall of Parnall Law was the presenting sponsor of the 2019 Walk Like MADD — and put together the largest team of walkers to support the event. Twenty-eight total teams, with 313 participants, raised over $26,000 to create a future of No More Victims®.

MoGro Mobile Grocery and Albuquerque Involved JANUARY 14, 2020 | ALBUQUERQUE 1

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New Mexico Woman

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ABQ Involved helped pack the weekly food shares for MoGro Mobile Grocery. MoGro is a non-profit mobile grocery project that delivers healthy foods to communities across northern New Mexico, including rural and tribal areas. 1 Volunteers with crates of food they bagged, from left Frank and F.J. Gonzales (ABQ Involved), Brad Sedillo, Rena Reiser, Gwendolyn HoustonHatton and Sarah Benavidez. Kneeling, Virginia Loman (ABQ Involved). 2 Sarah Benavidez and Brad Sedillo weigh and bag rice. The volunteers also bagged blue corn atole and blue corn pancake mix. 3, 4, 5 Gwendolyn Houston-Hatton (in pink) weighs one-pound bags of rice, while Josh Norman (MoGro) and Virginia Loman (ABQ Involved) seal the plastic bags.

WHY

New Mexico?

There are so many hidden gems!

ANSWER:

Dalene Valdez

College Auxiliary Services Director Ojo Caliente

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New Mexico Woman

PHOTO: Kelsey Moman of Kelsey Elizabeth Photography

We’re a rodeo family, so we see a lot of the state in our travels. There are so many hidden gems — Ruidoso, Hot Springs, Abiquiu Lake. My favorite place is the Red Rocks of Abiquiu.

There is so much to explore, and most people only see a small piece of our state. I’m from Ojo Caliente, and I adore Southwest fashion and my Western lifestyle. My young kids love New Mexico, too.

My husband and I are raising them in a close-knit community, and they’ll always call New Mexico “home.” We’ve talked about moving, but at the end of the day, we just don’t want to leave.

thank you

FOR SUPPORTING THE 2020 ABQ GO RED LUNCHEON

Life Is Why Sponsor

Fashion Show Sponsor

Red Dress Award Sponsor

Platform Sponsor

Healthy Welcome Sponsor

Open Your Heart Sponsor

In-Kind Media Sponsors

Thank you to all who attended and supported this year's luncheon! Our community's commitment to our mission warms our hearts.

Albuquerque Heart Walk Join us on June 13, 2020! albuquerqueheartwalk.org

By participating in the Heart Walk, you’re joining a million Heart Walk Heroes from across the nation raising funds for lifesaving science.

Science that can teach us all how to live longer and be Healthy For Good.

For more information contact Sherri.Wells@heart.org