Feb/Mar 2011 Essence

the Essence of Los Alamos and White Rock February/March 2011, Volume 4, Issue 2

LIVING WELL in Los Alamos Tips for Living Well Being Active with Children Seventy and Going Strong Science & Math Based Art Contest the

Essence February/March 2011

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the Essence Ten Tips for Living Well................... 6 Embracing the Small Town Lifestyle ........................................... 8 Active Baby, Happy Baby .......................................... 10 Weights Aerobics & Love...........12 Sharing the Magic of Dance ..................................14 Living Life to the Fullest at 70 ............................................16 Valentine’s Day in LA.......................18 BeneďŹ ts of an Active Life ...........19 Co-op Set to Open .......................... 20 Calendar of Events

22-23 Spirit of the West.............................. 23 Local Happenings in Your Town.................

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Participating CommunityMatters Chamber Members Assets in Action Atomic City Cleaning B & B Environmental Safety Inc. Bennett’s Jewelry Best Westerm Hilltop House Hotel Brownells Hallmark CB FOX & CB FOX Kidz Don Taylors Photos Enchanted Paradise Spa Family Strengths Network Family YMCA Fuller Lodge Art Center Hill Diner Hope Fellowship Juvenile Justice Board- LA Lorraine Hartway Los Alamos Family Council Los Alamos Farmers’ Market Los Alamos Fitness Center Los Alamos Heart Council Los Alamos Historical Society Los Alamos Medical Center Los Alamos National Bank Los Alamos Properties Los Alamos Public Schools Lou Santoro State Farm New York Life North Road Inn Pajarito Mountain Ski Area Pet Pangaea United Way of Northern NM UNM Los Alamos UPEX ON THE COVER Fillip Ronning enjoys a sunny day on the slopes of Pajarito Mountain teaching his daughter, Lena, to ski.

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Editor’s Note Welcome to the Essence, a bi-monthly publication, created to inform and remind us of what’s special about living in Los Alamos and White Rock.

The Essence is one feature of the Chamber of Commerce initiative called CommunityMatters.

This initiative highlights the important role our Chamber members play in building community and invites all of you to join with us in building and improving it.

In this issue of the Essence – Living Well This issue of The Essence, you will re-encounter a theme for ’Living Well’. Living well not only means our physical, but also mental and emotional heath…living well means enjoying friendships and laughing together.

I belong to a group of “Ladies Who Lunch”. These ladies bring energy into my life. Twice a month, we cook for each other, have a glass of wine and discuss local issues, our families and our jobs. They remind me to take good care of myself, so I can give back to those things and people who are important in my life. I also have a girls’ night with my very best friend, once a week. I don’t know what I would do without the support of loving friends. If we are truly living well - then we can live our best life.

I recently came back from Maui, Hawaii. The beauty of the environment and the ‘hang loose’ attitude brought a whole new perspective to me about living well. The little island was thriving in all aspects. This made me think about Los Alamos and White Rock.

I realized the importance of Living Well includes “Quality of Life.” There is no reason why Los Alamos and White Rock can’t be a thriving, vibrant community and serve as a destination as well. The possibilities of what we can see, hear, learn, do and discover locally is stunning…ranging from cultural and recreational opportunities to history, archeology, education, science, community service and much, much more.

As residents of Los Alamos and White Rock, please consider making a difference - becoming involved in committees, boards, public forums, volunteering, being active and shopping locally. You can give back to our community in so many ways.

And, being successful in these efforts, takes commitment: “Success is achieved not by doing only what is comfortable and convenient. Success is built by doing what must be done to reach it.

Success is achieved not by waiting until the last minute to get started. Success is created by looking ahead and working to be fully prepared.

Success is achieved not by making a half-hearted effort. Success comes when there is rock-solid commitment and real, meaningful purpose.

Success is achieved not by waiting for the lucky breaks. Success is built by making the most of whatever circumstances and events may come along.

Success is achieved not at random. Success happens when there is a decision and an effort and a commitment to make it happen.

Success is achieved not by a lucky few. Success is achieved by anyone who chooses to create it.”

– Ralph Marston It takes only one person to make a difference. ‘Living Well’ is a decision that takes effort and commitment. It is not comfortable or convenient. But, it takes a real, meaningful purpose, as our stories relate.

The Frolic is chock full of ideas for having fun outdoors. Mandy Marksteiner has provided copious amounts of hiking activities with our families to lift our spirits and energize our bodies.

In The Business Essence, Carol Clark talks with local fitness professionals, giving their take on ‘living well’.

Are you an Essential Person? Everyone has an interesting story and extraordinary things they have accomplished.

Here in Los Alamos, the “can do” attitude is prevalent. Carol Clark talks with George Lawrence – a Septuagenarian living life to the fullest.

Los Alamos and White Rock Insight, Linda Daly of the YMCA, has a fun, amusing article about romances that have occurred while working out at the ‘Y’.

In the Arts & Culture section, Mandy Markstein interviews Susan Baker-Dillingham of New Mexico Dance Theater on sharing the magic of dance.

Community Matters focuses on interviews with local residents and their vision of our Community. This month, Linda Corliss, tells of how her husband’s job allows them to the opportunity to choose where they would like to live and their decision that determined Los Alamos as their city of choice.

Also, check out the second Annual Assets in Action “Spirit of the West” award winners. Congratulations to all of the nominees for being outstanding in the community.

Edible Essence - Paula Sanchez, County Extension Home Economist, discusses “Ten Tips for Living Well”.

I hope you enjoy the ‘Living Well’ issue. We only have one life to live. Let’s make the best of it!

Suzette Fox, Editor Community Projects Coordinator Los Alamos Commerce and Development Corporation 505.661.4844, suzette@losalamos.org Note: We are always looking for new photos. We give residents like you the opportunity to submit pictures - be it landscapes, recreational activities, people about town, events, etc. that speaks of our community. You do not have to be professional photographer to have your pictures featured. We like to feature pictures that capture the essence of Los Alamos & White Rock. Email photos to me at Suzette@ losalamos.org. the

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Edible Essence

Ten Tips for Living Well By: Paula Roybal Sánchez, Extension Home Economist As a year begins, our thoughts wander to ways for self improvement. On the top of many of our lists is that of living well and becoming healthier. Unlike David Letterman’s top ten list, which he reads tongue-in-cheek, here is my list which you can take at face value. Adopt any one or all of the items. I wish you success as you become healthier.

make simple switches To eat more whole grains, substitute a whole grain product for a refined product – such as eating whole wheat bread instead of white bread or brown rice instead of white rice. To increase vegetable intake select dishes with little or no meats – pasta primavera, pasta with marinara or pesto sauce, veggie pizza, vegetable lasagna, tofu-vegetable stir fry, bean burritos, etc.

These changes increase fiber and cut saturated fat and cholesterol intake.

learn to love vegetables Eating foods, such as vegetables that are low in calories per cup, instead of some other high calorie food, may be useful in helping to lower calorie intake. Eating a diet rich in fruits and vegetables as part of an overall healthy diet may protect against certain types of cancer, reduce the risk for type 2 diabetes and reduce the risk for stoke and other types of heart disease.

be a healthy role model for children You are the most important influence on your child. You can do many things to help your child develop healthy eating habits for life. Offering a variety of foods helps children get the nutrients they need from every food group. They will also be more likely to try new foods and to like more foods. When children develop a taste for many types of foods, it’s easier to plan family meals. Cook together, eat together and make mealtime a family time!

think natural Buy foods in their natural state or minimally processed, such as rolled oats instead of instant oatmeal, or fresh chicken instead of chicken nuggets. This reduces fossil fuels for processing and it can lower your calories, too.

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read the label Use the Nutrition Facts label and the ingredients statement to find out what is in the foods you are buying. Look for foods low in salt (sodium), sugar and fat.

bone up on sources of calcium Calcium is used for building bones and teeth. Your best source for calcium comes from the milk group including, low fat milk, yogurt and cheese. Other sources of calcium are fortified breakfast cereals, soy products, calcium-fortified orange juice and some dark-green leafy vegetables (collard greens, turnip greens, bok choy, mustard greens).

choose fats wisely Fatty acids that are necessary for health are called “essential fatty acids.” Choose excellent sources of these, such as some nuts (walnuts) and seeds (flax seeds). Make a Waldorf salad, with apples, celery, walnuts, and low-fat dressing. Fats that are solid at room temperature are called “saturated fats.” These fats (butter, margarine, shortening, lard), are not a heart healthy option and should be limited.

watch your portion sizes The amount you eat or drink plays an important role in your energy balance strategy. You may be eating more than you realize.

Some common food portions can equal the amount that is recommended for the whole day. For example, one bagel may weigh up to 5 ounces, which equals the entire day’s allotment of grains for someone on a 1600 calorie plan. A good way to see how big your portions really are is to measure the size of bowls, glasses, cups, and plates you usually use. This can help you choose sensible portions.

think about variety Choose a variety of foods for good nutrition. Since foods within each food group differ in their content of nutrients, choosing a variety helps you get all the nutrients and fiber you need. It also helps keep your meals interesting day to day.

encourage physical activity Make physical activity fun for the whole family by involving your children in the planning. Children need at least 60 minutes of physical activity every day. Adults need to be physically active for at least 30 minutes most days of the week. Walking briskly, gardening/yard work, bicycling and dancing are examples of moderate-intensity activities. Limit screen time (computer, TV, video games) to two hours or less a day. No matter what you choose to do, get moving. The more you move the better you feel and the healthier you’ll be.

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CommunityMatters Linda Corliss: Embracing the Small Town Lifestyle Editor’s note: In the Essence, we tell the stories of the people, places, businesses, events, and activities that make Los Alamos and White Rock a special community. The CommunityMatters interview explores the concept of community with a local resident.

Linda Corliss has lived in Los Alamos with her family for about two and a half years. They moved here from the Sacramento area where Linda had worked in sales with an information technology company. Linda grew up in the Bay Area and her husband grew up back East. Linda and her husband, Stu, moved here with their sons Max and Andy who are both students at Aspen School.

Essence: I heard you speak at an event at Aspen School and you said that you and your family could live anywhere, but you chose Los Alamos.

Linda: That’s right. My husband’s work allows us to choose where we want to live. We set out to look for a place that would allow us to live in a mountain environment and in a small town community environment. We checked out a number of places. Bend, Oregon was a place we gave serious thought to as well as Carson City, Nevada. About the same time, my husband read an article in Money Magazine about places with the highest concentration of millionaires and Los Alamos was on their list. That brought Los Alamos to our attention. We started checking it out and it looked pretty interesting to us. I was a frequent visitor to the Chamber of Commerce Websites. We also studied what we could learn about the schools. The strong performance and reputation of the schools here was a big factor in our interest.

Eventually, we put together a two week Southwestern road trip during the summer, and spent three days of it in Los Alamos. We left with a good impression. There was a concert at Ashley Pond one of the nights. The atmosphere at the summer concert has “small town, welcoming place” written all over it. We also spent time at the Aquatic Center. We are swimmers and quality swimming facilities are important to us. We walked into RE/MAX during that visit and were introduced to Suzie Havemann who was our guide to housing options. She showed us homes that were interesting to us … we perceived that we could get more for our housing dollars in Los Alamos than in California to be sure. One thing we were still unsure about, though, was moving into “four season” country. My husband grew up with that but I’d never lived for long where there is a real winter. Suzie suggested we visit again in the winter to check that out.

We did come back for a winter visit later that year. We hit the skating rink and our kids both had their first ski lesson at Pajarito Mountain. Before we left, we had made an offer on a house and started the process of making our move. It took about six trips, but we eventually got moved.

Essence: Great story! Well, how would you say it has turned out? Did you get what you had hoped for in a small-town community in the mountains?

Linda: Absolutely! I’ve had the good fortune to connect with a core group of really good friends … that’s a lot easier in a small community. We’re able to afford a lot more house here and that has been nice. The schools have been a great place for our kids, the setting is beautiful, and we make real good use of the pool. I shop at CB FOX and Ruby K’s Café is a favorite place. Going for a swim and meeting friends afterwards at Ruby K’s is a favorite routine. I do like going to Smith’s … that turns out to be a place where I run into and catch up with people I know.

The transition from a highly populated area with all the stores nearby to a small town has been a bit different than I expected. I thought when I came here that I’d have to be going to Santa Fe every other week. As it has turned out, I only go every six weeks or so. I would like to see more shopping options here though.

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Essence: The theme for this issue of Essence is “living well”. What do you think about “living well” here.

Linda: I skied this morning and I swim four or five times each week. If anything, there is too much to do for kids with sports and clubs. I volunteer with the hot lunch program at Aspen School and it is striking to me how healthy the kids seem. And it’s not just living well in a physical fitness sense. It is an intellectually stimulating environment … there are more than 50 kids involved in chess club at Aspen. I’m part of an active book club.

My husband has become involved with the Geological Society. There are a wealth of ways to work on living well here.

Essence: You are involved right now as a volunteer leading the Aspen School PTO. How did that come about and what’s that like?

Linda: I kind of volunteered and I was kind of drafted. I was co-president of the PTO with a neighbor who ended up moving away, so I became the president. I enjoy it and I work to bring my background as a business person to helping us to be organized.

People do get involved here. We did a beautification day at the school and more than fifteen families showed up to help as well as some teachers. The master gardeners worked with us to give advice as did the county extension agent. Metzger’s extended a discount on materials and the County brought a dumpster. We made a difference and ended the day with a fun dinner. The challenge is building on that and getting even more people involved. We are in the second year of bringing back the Aspen carnival and the next bond election will have big implications for updating facilities at Aspen.

Essence: Any other thoughts to share?

Linda: I was thinking about a story that I think is worth telling. I had a friend visiting from the city and we were driving down Central. As it often happens, I ended up waving to at least four different people I know as we drove to the store. My friend expressed surprise at “how I must know everyone in town.” I can see how it must seem that way coming from a city-living perspective. I love it here … it was clear to me when I made that first visit back to Sacramento that we had made a great choice!

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The Frolic Hiking with Your Baby In January, Cyndi Wells (owner of Pet

Active Baby, Happy Baby

By Mandy Marksteiner When my son, Calvin, was a month old we took him on the Blue Dot Trail, a White Rock hike that cuts down the side of a rocky cliff, through a Juniper forest to the bank of the Rio Grand. He chattered, giggled and slept in the carrier. I breastfed him by the river and changed his diaper on smooth rocks.

When we got back to the car, we realized that we had been gone for five hours, and he didn’t cry the entire time.

Afterwards, we decided to relax at a warm comfortable restaurant. As soon as we sat down he started freaking out, and we spent the entire meal trying to calm him down.

A few months later, Calvin would not stop crying. His grandparents were visiting and they seriously wanted to take him to the emergency room, they were so convinced that he was sick.

We walked toward the hospital on Trinity Drive, but stopped at a hiking trail that took us into Dead Man’s Canyon.

By that time my in-laws (who were ready to give him a full examination, complete with shots and x-rays) had to admit he wasn’t sick at all. He stopped crying the second we walked out of our apartment. As soon as we descended the trail into the Canyon, he was fast asleep.

Hiking with a baby completely changed my idea of what makes babies feel relaxed and safe. He was more comfortable in the desert than inside a restaurant or an apartment. Like adults, babies don’t like to be cooped up.

Since having a baby and moving to Los Alamos (the two events happened at about the same time) hiking has become one of the most important activities we’ve done as a family.

It started out as a way to get to know the area and enjoy the outdoors after living in Manhattan for too long. In town, we’ve explored Mitchell Trail, Acid Canyon, Bandelier, the Puye Cliff Dwellings, and hiking trails around Pajarito Ski Area. Taking time to slowly walk up a trail and enjoy the rocks changing color as you go up a mountain and the smell of the desert plants after it rains is how we made this place our home.

It helps us unwind on the days when my husband comes home form work tired and grouchy, and I’m drowning in dishes and laundry and wondering why I haven’t taken a shower in three days. Hiking keeps us from turning into a parental cliché and stay close as a couple.

There are countless ways to measure how your kids are growing up and becoming more independent. Here’s how we measured Calvin’s growth from hike to hike: We brought Calvin to the Tsankawi Trail, just outside of White Rock. This trail has been used for centuries. There are petroglyphs, footprints worn into the volcanic rock and grooves worn down from years of walking, the snow making them as

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Pangaea) and her husband, Mike Warren, took their daughter, Maia, snowshoeing for the first time in the Valle Caldera.

They planned to take the loop that goes north from the Visitor Center, but it was so windy and cold they decided to cut the trip short and go back.

“You have to be flexible when you’re hiking or snowshoeing with a baby,” said Wells. “You have to have it in the back of your mind that you may have to change your plans.”

When Wells hikes with Maia, she always follows general good hiking safety rules, like “have extra water and food”.

But there are additional safety measures that she takes when her baby is in tow.

“She can’t talk yet so I make sure she’s not too cold. I’ll check her hands temperature to make sure that they’re warm enough,” she said. “I also make sure that she’s layered with an undershirt, sweater and coat and three layers of pants, so that we can regulate her temperature.

That day the wind was pretty bad and her hands were cold. It was nice to have somewhere to go. The Visitor Center was warm and there was a fire. It was much better than taking her back to a freezing cold car seat.”

Even though her snowshoeing trip didn’t work out as planned, Wells loves bringing her baby on outdoor adventures. “I think it’s a lot of fun. I hope it will instill a love of the outdoors and an appreciation for nature in Maia.”

slip sl ippe ip ppeery as as bobs b bo ob bssled runs slippery bobsled runs.

After walking the length of the mesa, we realized that we had to scale a 20-foot ladder to get down. Part of me wanted to turn back…. I’m afraid of climbing steep ladders in the wilderness. I have a picture from our honeymoon of myself clinging to a ladder on the side of a cliff with a look of terror on my face. Quinn, wearing the backpack with Calvin conked out and flopped over to one side, just inched his way to the edge and started down. I could barely watch. What if they fell? I was so tense as Quinn lowered himself one rung at a time until he reached the bottom. It was sheer mommy-hysteria.

We visited Bandelier only a short while later. Instead of staying in the backpack, Calvin wanted to get out and climb the ladders himself. Part of me wanted to stand underneath him and be prepared to catch him, but I could tell that he was perfectly capable of climbing the ladders himself.

Reluctantly, I did what most moms struggle to do at times: restrain myself. I didn’t assist him in any way as he carefully went up to see the caves and I’m glad because he was beaming with pride when he reached the top.

Last Christmas Eve, we took one more trip to Bandelier to show the ladders and the caves to my sisters and their families and try to figure out the new logistics of hiking now that we have a new baby girl, Gloria.

First of all, with two kids I’m perpetually discombobulated when we got to Bandelier I realized that I forgot my Moby Wrap! How was I going to hike without it?

We did some quick rearranging: My older sister let me use her stroller and we put her 11-month-old, Alison, in the backpack. Calvin walked.

When the trail got too steep for the stroller, I stayed back with Gloria and Alison. Calvin looked like such big kid as he walked off with the adults. My ladder anxiety was completely gone.

I knew he would love showing off for his aunts and uncles.

I certainly didn’t mind being left behind. It gave me a chance to get to know the two newest members of my family who will have plenty of time to go on hikes.

Note: Follow Mandy Marksteiner and Calvin on her Baby Hikes blog: Mike Warren and Maia snowshoe in the Valles Caldera babyhikes.blogspot.com.

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INSIGHT

By Li B Linda d D Daly l Since 1955, people have turned to The Family YMCA CA to become b healthier and more fit. Some have come to the Y to learn new activities such as dancing, fencing or jujitsu. But to fall in love? Indeed, along with my own love story, I know of at least four other couples who kindled their romance at the Y.

The Single Adults Club It was 1964 and John Elder had only been in Los Alamos three months when his new friend and neighbor at the Gold Street Apartments, Ray McPhillips, asked him to not only join the Y, but to join the Board of Directors. McPhillips was Executive Director of the Y at that time. Eager to get involved in his newly adopted community, Elder joined, and, boy, was he glad. At the first Board meeting he attended, he set eyes upon Jean McClintic. “Wow, was she attractive,” said Elder. McClintic, also a Y Board member, was the first school administrator for the district. They both were participants in the Y’s “Single Adults Club.” They would become engaged a year later and marry the following year. “Jean had only been in Los Alamos a year and was going to stick it out a couple more, but then she met me.” The “Single Adults Club” was a victim of its own success, according to Elder. “The club dissolved after a while because everyone married each other!” Elder recalled John and Norma Puckett as club members who eventually married. John and Jean Elder were married for 34 years, until Jean’s death in 2002.

John Elder would go on to serve 6 terms on the Y Board and 3 stints as board chair.

Romance from asphalt “The Y really needed a parking lot,” recalls Emily McGay, former director of The Family YMCA. “So Roger Waterman calls me and says I have a deal for you. I will pave the Y’s lot if we can share usage for my office building across the street.”

McGay, then director of the Y, said it was the first of many gifts and gestures that Waterman would make to endear him to her. It was 1993 and Waterman was asked to chair the Y’s capital campaign to raise money for a gymnasium at the Y. “I had no idea what I was doing, but I had great respect for the Y and Emily.” McGay recalled that he “would blow kisses to her across the table in campaign update meetings.” The campaign would go on to raise $500,000 of its $1,000,000 goal. Waterman said that while he failed at making the goal, “I did get a date with Emily.” McGay said their first date was a motorcycle ride to the Jemez Bath House and burgers at Los Ojos. She became so infatuated with cycling that she would go on to get her motorcycle license and very own bike. Both were cautious, each having been married previously, and were content with dating, until 2000. “I loaned my home to friends who lost theirs in the fire and moved in with Roger,” said McGay. Waterman proposed to McGay in front of 800 people on a cruise ship in 2001, and they married a year later. Waterman continues to serve on the Y Board and McGay, who retired from the Y in 1999, would go on to work for the YMCA of the USA and start her own business helping non-profits, McGay Consulting.

The Stalker It was August 1990 when Steve Wells, a regular at the Y, noticed a new face in the weight room. “She was cute, and I liked that she was conservatively dressed—you know, wearing shorts over her sweats,” said Wells, president of Los Alamos National Bank and former Y Board member. Sheri Davis, a new resident of Los Alamos, remembered that he would make small talk at the water fountain. One day he asked her, “How did you get in such great shape?” Wells said it is the all-time pick up line. Davis thought he must be interested, but still no date! “Steve was a bit shy,” she said. And cautious.

Wells confessed that he would swing into the Y after seeing Davis’s car in the parking lot, “to work out when she did.” Once, after she had signed in, Wells looked through the member card box hoping to find more information on her. “Back then, members kept their cards in a box at the front desk,” Wells said. “After she checked in, I flipped through the box and found her card and learned she was a first grade teacher at Aspen.” And he also learned her phone number. “It was Election Day, earlier at the Y, I

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asked k her h if she h hhad d voted voted, t d and d she h said id d that she did not because was not registered in the county.” So Wells, with her phone number in hand, called her that evening pretending to be from Gallup Polls. “I asked her for her occupation, she said school teacher. I then asked if she had voted and she said no. I said what kind of example are you setting for our kids? She was so apologetic and guilt-ridden I immediately told her who I was.” Wells was smitten. Davis and Wells would date for 13 more years before marrying in 2004. They both still work out together at the Y.

First a team, then a couple “We both started out as Y kids,” said Sam Kendricks, local realtor. “My mom was a single mother and from the age of 13, I spent my days at the Y, on the swim team or working for the swim coach in Irving, Texas.” Shay Kendricks, local attorney and Y Board member, says her first job at the age of 16 was at the Y in Jonesboro, Arkansas, helping out at the front desk. It was in Arkansas, in 1991, that Sam, an up-and-coming swim coach, would cross paths with Shay at her Y. “It was a hot day in Jonesboro,” she recalled, “I was all sweaty from putting up letters on our outside marquees, when Sam was introduced to me.” Sam was hired by the Jonesboro Y to operate their brand new pool and coach the swim team. “Shay always had my back,” said Sam. “When I would forget to call a parent or had a scheduling conflict, Shay would take care of it without me even knowing I had a problem.” Shay said that they worked really well as a team. One day, Sam asked her if she’d like to come over for fajitas. “What’s a fajita?” she replied.

That weekend together would be the first of many. When Sam was hired as the Aquatics Director for the Walkup Center, Shay would follow after finishing law school. She was delighted to work for the Los Alamos Y, manning the front desk, where she studied for the New Mexico Bar Exam, while getting to know folks in her new community. Sam and Shay would go on to marry in 2000, and renew vows in 2010.

Keep an open heart And now my own love story! Back in April of 2003, I was hobbling around the Y after taking a bad step the previous night. The handsome and recently returned from serving overseas Army doc, Paul Daly, saw me limping and asked about it. I mumbled something about a misstep running up stairs. He kindly offered to look at it. I remember thinking as he removed my sandal—“Oh thank God I shaved my legs last night.” My foot was more black and blue than what I remembered, and more painful to the touch. Paul was exceedingly gentle and said I should see my doctor and get it x-rayed right away. I tried to get an appointment with my doctor, the wonderful Dr. Maggie McCreery, only to discover she had retired! I was referred to Medical Associates of Northern New Mexico. By this time the pain was substantial. I begged the nice lady at MANNM for an appointment that same day. “Well, I can give you our last of the day, it is with Dr. Daly.” While I was appreciative of the appointment, I remembered thinking, “Oh great, he’s going to think I specifically asked for him--awkward!” Later that evening, Dr. Daly did indeed confirm a break to the 5th metatarsal bone in my left foot. That appointment would eventually lead to sharing of music CDs and books. It would also lead to motorcycle rides and weekends exploring small towns in New Mexico. Paul, a regular at the Y, would stop in my office a couple times a week to check on my progress. He literally swept me off my feet, cast and all. We married a little over a year after he looked at my bruised and broken, but pedicured, foot.

I would love to say that love can be found at the Y. But truth be known, love can be found at Smith’s, at the dog park, on the ski hill or at the high school. Really anywhere, but you just must be ready to accept it. As my mother would often tell me, you must be believe in love, keep an open heart, only then love will find you.

Essence February/March 2011

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Arts & Culture Sharing the Magic of Dance; an interview with Susan Baker-Dillingham • The knowledge that you never reach perfection in dance and, yet, it is always a self-motivated work in progress toward perfection.

If a beginner were thinking about learning to dance for the first time, what advice would you give to help them choose an appropriate class?

The first thing I would do is to find out the age of the student, if they have ever danced before and, if so, where and for how long. I would ask the parent if the student is shy or more assertive. I would take into account the height of the student and compare it to the age. I would also take into account the maturity level of the student and place them in the appropriate level at NMDT.

Baker-Dillingham

By Mandy Marksteiner Your tagline is “enhancing lives through the art of dance.” In your opinion how does dance enhance people’s lives?

When I was a young dance student growing up in Abilene, Texas, I was blessed to have a very artistic and inspirational teacher. She provided us with well-rounded dance training, an incredible variety of performance experiences, gorgeous costumes and sets and small tours around west Texas. Working together with her and my peers in a company setting was extremely rewarding, so when I began my own school and company, I looked back at how it all began for me. I realized my entire life had been enhanced through the art of dance due to the magic of dance, and all that goes with it.

How has dance enhanced your life?

Dance IS my life. Dancing as a professional for 20 years was an extension of what my first teacher began but on a much grander scale. Working with artistic directors, choreographers, composers, conductors, costume designers, set designers, performing to live orchestras and knowing that very few people actually make it as a dancer and that I was blessed to be one who did, enhanced my life greatly.

Being able to pass on the legacy of dance as a teacher and director now and sharing quality dance educators with the students at NMDT is just as rewarding as being a professional dancer and brings the magic around full circle.

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What are some physical fitness benefits that are unique to dance?

Dance is physical in a sports type of way in that you are using your body, but it is also an art form that requires proper technique to accomplish it correctly. Dance engages your entire body from fingertips to toe tips. It incorporates good posture, balance, flexibility, grace, attention to detail, rhythm, musicality, and non-stop concentration. You MUST remember complicated sequences of steps and perform them to the counts and on the music. You MUST work as a team or a corps. You MUST be dedicated to improvement if you want to succeed at dance on any level. And most importantly you MUST apply the proper technique to make dance look effortless when in reality it is extremely hard. Just imagine turning 32 times on top of your toes on a surface the size of a 50-cent piece with grace and aplomb and you get the idea.

At a deeper level, what other benefits does dance offer?

• The feeling of family due to hours on end spent together in the studio taking classes and rehearsing for productions.

• Relishing in the dedication you give to your craft.

• The thrill of being humble and vulnerable enough to give yourself over to a role and perform it well in front of a live audience.

• The all-encompassing feeling of telling a story with your body through steps and acting.

• The self-fulfillment you experience when the audience applauds. the

Essence February/March 2011

What sets New Mexico Dance Theater apart from the other dance organizations? What makes it unique?

Like most professional level dance schools and companies, New Mexico Dance Theater (NMDT) and New Mexico Dance Theater Performance Company (NMDT-PC) are two different entities. NMDT is a school setting that trains students from age 2 through adult how to dance. NMDTPC is a non-profit 501-c3 organization. NMDT-PC is fed by accomplished members of the school and provides several performance opportunities each year.

Also, NMDT-PC is based on a professional dance company setting that performs a vast array of productions. In the past six years alone, dancers in NMDT-PC have performed such ballets as Dracula, Snow White, The Wonderful Wizard of Oz, Cinderella, Alice, The Sleeping Beauty and Aladdin.

These productions have allowed the dancers to stretch themselves artistically by giving them the versatility any young pre-professional dancer would need in the real world. These productions also include professional level set design, costume design, lighting design and intriguing musical selections to perform to. As far as I know, no other local organization is arranged this way and is one reason that NMDT and NMDTPC are unique and flourishing.

Does NMDT have anything planned for February and March?

Our next production will be the seventh annual NMDT spring recital “Around the World” on Friday May 6th and Saturday May 7th. NMDT School recitals are much different than NMDT-PC productions. Recitals are in the spring and provide each and every class and student the chance to perform at the Duane W. Smith Auditorium and show what they have learned during the year.

What made you decide to start your own dance company? What were some of the challenges?

I felt hindered as the director at another dance school and knew I could accomplish much more if I began my own organization. I was absolutely right and, within the first year of founding NMDT, I was chosen as the Los Alamos “Success Client of the Year” by the Los Alamos Small Business Development Center (Los Alamos SBDC). I was honored on the floor of the House of Representatives at the State Capitol with only 17 other people from the entire state.

Los Alamos SBDC was instrumental in helping me get

see Sharing Dance on page 20 www.ReadTheEssence.com

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Essence February/March 2011

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Essential Person Septuagenarian is living life to the fullest

By Carol A. Clark

have an impact on the future of the ski hill and an opportunity to improve it for future generations,” he said.

The Ski Club is not involved in day-to-day operations of the ski hill but rather reviews long range policies and sets guidelines for the future. Manager, Tom Long, and his staff are responsible for running Pajarito Mountain, Lawrence said.

Outdoor activities are available throughout the year, he said. In the summer and fall, people can mountain bike on the mountain, which now offers a major bike trail system.

And they can hike. Literally, anyone can put on a pair of shoes and start moving into the woods to hike. The scenery, accessibility and diverse nature of hiking trails make this heart-healthy pastime attractive for people of all ages, fitness levels and income brackets. Moreover, hiking and trekking don’t require any special expertise and skills.

Hiking maintains the body in good working condition and is essentially walking, which is considered to be one of the most perfect forms of exercise for the body. It improves physical as well as mental health. And it provides the hiker a chance to spend some quality time together with Mother Nature – good for mental health. Everyone can find trails to suit their physical strengths, he said. And unlike other activities or sports, it is a pursuit that allows people to determine their own limitations. According to the American Heart Association, it’s best to walk vigorously for 30 to 60 minutes three to four times per week.

He skis, he hikes and he even treks across South America and Europe. At 71, longtime Los Alamos resident George Lawrence takes full advantage of the fact that he has no injuries or replacement parts to prohibit him from fulfilling his quest to enjoy the outdoors.

“I do it to have fun,” Lawrence said of his many activities. “Two springs ago, I participated in a family organized six-day backpacking trip in Paria Canyon, which spans the Utah – Arizona border. Every year, I try to participate in a five to 10 day hiking trip.

Benefits to hiking and trekking at any age range from controlling obesity to preventing heart disease to improving the quality of air breathed. While many outdoor activities require special equipment or training to get started, hiking is relatively much simpler and more beneficial than any other exercise.

For Lawrence, his active lifestyle goes back nearly five decades. He moved to Los Alamos to work at Los Alamos National Laboratory in 1964. In 1968, he met his future wife Katherine at a local International folk dance group. The couple joined others in performing vigorous dances from around the world. Katherine grew up in Los Alamos and is the daughter of Stephen and Stephanie Sydoriak. Her father, now deceased, was a cryogenics research physicist at Los Alamos National Laboratory.

Research shows that dancing is great for the muscles, balance and aerobic health. Concentrating on the music and the rhythm also is great for mental fitness.

The Lawrences’ raised their sons to embrace an active life style as well. Both boys were born in Los Alamos and learned to ski at Pajarito Mountain.

They also played soccer during their years going through the Los Alamos Public School system.

“They are in a class well above me in terms of what they do out of doors,” Lawrence said. “David lives in Boulder, Colo., where he works for the National Center for Atmospheric Research as a climate scientist. Stephen lives in Salt Lake City where he works as an engineer for a company that develops vehicle tracking systems. They are both expert skiers and avid long distance bike riders and soccer players.”

Lawrence has been enjoying skiing ever since he took to the slopes shortly before this 30th birthday.

“Skiing is an excellent activity to help people stay in shape in the winter,” he said. “It’s something for all ages – I know people skiing well into their 80s. It’s not hard on the body.”

Skiing tones the entire body while providing an excellent cardiovascular workout; it strengthens the heart muscle and improves delivery of oxygen to muscles.

Lawrence also is a member of the Family YMCA where he works out and said he especially enjoys the strength training class. He also has a Golden Retriever, Katie, who “takes him out for a daily walk.”

“I consider myself lucky to so far not have any physical issues,” he said.

Lawrence has served on the Ski Club Board G George LLawrence near th the the day h llodge d on th h llastt d of Directors since retiring from LANL in 2000. He of skiing at Pajarito last spring. was president of the board from 2006-2008 and Lawrence with fellow hikers on a trek in Iceland currently serves as board vice president.

“Serving on the board gives me a chance to last summer. - Courtesy photo

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Essence February/March 2011

Five things to know about exercising after 70

1

Fool father time: Exercising is important for every age group, but it’s especially important for senior citizens. Exercise helps keep seniors limber and flexible, aids in balance and improves overall health. When you exercise, blood flow and circulation is increased to all parts of your body. Improved circulation not only benefits your arms and legs; it benefits your heart, lungs and brain, too.

2

Let’s get physical: We have all heard the advice “consult your physician before beginning any exercise program,” but in the case of senior citizens it is sage advice. Some conditions may require less strenuous exercise or a modified exercise program. The “no pain-no gain” saying doesn’t apply to senior citizens.

3

Strive for Strength: The goal for every senior citizen should be to strengthen their muscles and decrease muscle loss, common in seniors. Use light weights or canned goods to do a bicep curl; keep your elbows tucked in at your waist and raise your arms while bending only at the elbow. Make sure you use the same amount of weight in each arm.

Start with 8 to 10 repetitions and gradually increase daily.

4

Endurance is everything: Exercise that builds endurance goes hand in hand with strengthening exercises for the senior citizen. Exercises that build endurance include gardening or raking, biking or using a stationary bike, brisk walking or swimming.

5

Exercises for everyone: Exercise is important for everyone, especially if you are disabled or bedridden. Moving the body and extremities increases circulation, which in turn reduces the chance for skin problems or bedsores. Exercises can be done sitting in a wheelchair or lying in a bed.

Source: www.livestrong.com

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Wining, Dining, Dancing and Flowers …

For Valentine’s Weekend in Los Alamos

By Lynn Strauss For that special someone on Valentine’s Day Weekend, here are some suggestions for things to do and gifts to give.

Events

DeColores Mexican Restaurant will offer a steak special on Friday, Feb. 11 and a trout special on Monday, Feb. 14. The atmosphere is always festive Mexican, and the margaritas are delish! Stop by 2470 East Road or call 662-6285.

Flowers

Bella Cosa Flowers is known for fresh and beautiful arrangements but is offering Valentine’s Day packages that can include: chocolates, balloons, or stuffed animals accompanied with rose flower arrangements and mixed arrangements. Also, Bella Cosa offers specials every week leading up to Valentine’s Day to their fans on Facebook. Stop by 1743 Central, call 662-6093 or visit bellacosaflowers.com.

Gifts

The Hilltop Spa is offering two Valentine specials, but you can also buy a gift certificate for any of their services. A one-hour couples massage is available for the special rate of $69 per person, and a complete make-over and consultation with professional make-up artist Blair Leonard is available for $100. Stop by 400 Trinity Drive, or call 662-1926, or visit hilltophousespa.com.

CB Fox gift items from clothing and accessories to chocolates – Heart-shaped boxes of chocolates and custom boxes of Chocolate Smiths Chocolates. Other items suggested include lingerie, scarves, hats, silk boxers, robes, body care and bath sets, and ski accessories.

Gift wrapping is free. The staff is great about making gift suggestions, according to General Manager Andy Fox. Stop by 1735 Central Ave., or call 662-2864 or visit www.cbfox.com.

Brownell’s Hallmark stocks thousands of cards, plus gifts from small sentimental items to the latest tech in cameras with knowledgeable advise from the owner and staff. Call 662-6501, located at Mari • Mac Shopping Center.

For a full list of events for the Valentine’s Day celebration go to page 22 or visit www.fyiLA.com.

Los Alamos: A Special Town for Health & Fitness

By Kent Pegg The people in Los Alamos are, in whole, the fittest group of individuals I have ever had the opportunity to be around. Sometimes, it seems as if everyone here is competitive in some sport or active in the gym.

Young or old, thin or muscled, fitness is a part of the lifestyle here in our community. And even those who may not look like competitive bodybuilders or triathletes are involved in this culture of fitness.

Every day, I have the opportunity to work with people in the community who are striving to improve their health and their lives. Some of these people are competitive athletes looking to improve in their sport. Some are new to weight training and are looking to set up a program for the first time. Others are looking to lose weight. Still others are rehabbing from injuries or overcoming physical challenges.

The one thing that each of my clients has in common is a strong commitment to bettering themselves and improving the quality of their lives. I can’t begin to tell you

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how rewarding it is to work with clients who are serious about their exercise program and work hard to realize their goals.

If you are part of the fitness craze in Los Alamos, good for you! Keep up the hard work and don’t look back. If you haven’t yet joined in, now is as good a time as any to start. Go for a walk with your dog, try a gym workout, play some tennis or golf with a friend or swim a few laps.

Getting started will be much easier than you think.

If you’re new to an activity, consider getting some help from a trained professional or from a friend or family member with extensive knowledge in the field, especially if you have any injuries, conditions or concerns.

So join in on the fitness craze that’s happening in Los Alamos. All the benefits of a healthy lifestyle are just around the corner.

Kent Pegg is a certified personal trainer and the owner of the Los Alamos Fitness Center. If you have any questions about the information in this article you can call him at 662-5232.

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Transform your life, supercharge your health, feel spectacular

By Carol A. Clark Power up your nutrition and get your body moving - because the simplest of choices can make a world of difference on your journey to a healthy lifestyle.

Three area fitness experts who are passionate about health, personal enrichment and overall lifestyle well being share their top tips for living well in 2011 and beyond.

To help keep your resolution to get fit, Los Alamos Family YMCA Wellness Director, Melanie Chapman, offers practical reinforcement exercises.

“We all know it doesn’t take long to get bored with a workout, irritated about denying yourself certain foods and discouraged with the slow downturn of the scale,” she said. “There’s no secret when it comes to losing weight and getting fit. It’s about making a commitment to move more and selecting better food choices. Don’t forget that your diet is just as important as your workout.”

Chapman has been a fitness expert for 24 years at the Y. She has found the secret to staying fit and advises people to find a form of exercise that they really like, because that way they are much more inclined to stick with it, she said.

“Start out slowly, planning to do too much before you’ve truly developed workout habits can be a set-up for failure,” Chapman said. “It’s also a good idea to add more activity to your daily life. Take the stairs rather than the elevator, park farther away from the door.”

Make it easy for yourself and don’t give yourself an excuse not to workout, she said.

If you plan to break a sweat in the morning, prepare the night before. Lay out your workout clothes so you won’t have to root around in the morning for your gear.

“Make small changes – instead of eating out three times a week, try to cut down to one time,” she said. “Do it the right way. Starving yourself or taking pills to achieve weight loss are not only temporary fixes, they also can be damaging to your body.”

If you’re not self-motivated (and most people aren’t when it comes to fitness) Chapman suggests finding a friend or personal trainer to work out with or taking a group fitness class because informal support systems often form in group classes.

Remember it’s a lifestyle change and not a fad, she said, and fads come and go.

“Most importantly, take it one day at a time,” Chapman said. “A missed workout or bad food choice doesn’t mean you’ve lost, or fallen off the wagon. Each day is an opportunity to make a healthier you.”

Chapman said that the Family YMCA at 1450 Iris St., is a facility with the philosophy that everyone should find time to exercise.

Curves for Women at 967 Central Ave., is a gym where women change their lives, 30 minutes at a time. Instructor Marie Peterson has lived in Los Alamos for eight years and became an instructor at Curves about 18 months ago.

“Every time I’m at work, I always go on the circuit (exercise machines and steps done to music) with the women,” Peterson said. “It’s just a really great way to work out and the women all have very interesting stories because they come from so many different walks of life. We get conversations going on the circuit and the time passes so quickly and before you know it we’re done.”

Good healthy eating habits, exercise and a positive mental attitude are the three

main contributing factors to living well, she said.

Peterson has three children and said her family doesn’t eat fast food.

“We try to prepare every meal ourselves so we know what’s in them and we’re also big fruit eaters,” she said.

LA Fitness in the Mari Mac shopping center at 771 Central Ave., encourages people to exercise their options from indoor cycling to free weights to cardio workouts.

“When it comes to the three most important activities people can do to live well, cardio, flexibility and weight training are the three components that make up any successful health program,” said owner and fitness expert Kent Pegg.

Pegg has been training people to live healthier lifestyles for 15 years.

“I’ve had 35,000 client visits for rehabilitation and fitness,” he said. “Studies show for preventing disease, cardio, flexibility and weight training are the key components.”

The U.S. government and many other health organizations recommend that children and adolescents get at least 60 minutes of physical activity on most, if not all, days of the week. This, along with a healthy diet, is key to helping kids maintain good overall health.

Studies show that overweight children face many problems. They are more likely to develop diseases like high blood pressure, diabetes and heart disease, even while they are young. Heavy kids also have lower self-esteem. This can affect their relationships with other children. Some experts feel that emotional problems are the hardest part about being overweight.

So whether it’s LA Fitness, Curves or the Y, the most important element to healthy individuals and families is to spend time working out and being active everyday.

STAYING ACTIVE: Take a Technology Time Out

1 2

Computer games, video games, and TV can stop kids from being active. Kids need limits on screen time.

Physical activity increases muscles, energy, and helps kids grow. Kids need to be active about 60 minutes every day. It may be hard to get kids moving at first. Do not let things get boring. Keep it fresh … If you have already tried some of these, be creative.

3 4 5 6 7

Use a timer to limit their screen time. When it buzzes, turn it off!

Make a schedule you can stick with … No screen games during the week.

Limit the use of the computer to homework only.

Turn off the TV and cell phones during dinner. Make dinner time family time!

Instead of watching TV, try playing a game. You can start with the question game. Everyone takes turns asking questions about their day.

If you do watch TV during commercials, exercise … Run up and down the stairs, get the mail, race around the house, or jump rope in place.

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Try walking or biking to the grocery store. Take the whole family. Then assign “helpers” to carry some of the bags or baskets.

Take the TV and/or computers out of bedrooms.

Create a family activity chart and fill it in each day.

Plan a day outdoors and make it an adventure. Explore something new.

Source: www.eatsmart.umd.edu

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Sharing Dance from Page 14 started. They helped me believe I could do it and encouraged me in every way possible. I will never forget meeting with Kevin Holsapple one day; he said, “My goodness, you have experienced 400% growth!” I was so proud!

One challenge of getting started was finding a suitable space and taking the risk I did by putting the entire expense of two types of flooring, mirrors and ballet barres on my own credit card and hoping students would enroll so I could pay it off. I started that first year with 17 students but now, six years later, there are 240 enrolled.

Another challenge was finding quality instructors since NMDT grew faster than I could keep up with. It is hard to believe there is an extremely strong core of eight faculty members including: Carol Liebmann, Selena Offenberg and Daren Savage.

The newest addition to that core is Jefferson Baum of the Aspen Santa Fe Ballet.

Together we are developing very talented dancers and helping these young people grow into amazing young adults.

Do you have any other thoughts?

Due to its nature, dance makes well-rounded individuals. Because of the discipline required, dancers are more aware of their bodies and their surroundings. Because of the devotion required, dancers usually make excellent grades and are leaders at school and within their peer groups. The majority of students that studied dance at NMDT and have graduated high school and moved on into the college setting, have done so with very high honors and impressive scholarships. I bet if interviewed, each one of them would say NMDT and the art of dance enhanced their lives immensely and aided in the development of the admirable persons they are today.

NMDT, directed by Susan Baker-Dillingham, is located in the heart of downtown Los Alamos at 147 and 149 Central Park Square. The professional level faculty offer classes in Mommy and Me, creative ballet, creative jazz, jazz, tap, stretch and strengthen, pointe, partnering and all levels of ballet including teen and adult.

Please call 920-9134 or check us out on the web at www.NMDT.org for more information.

Los Alamos Co-op Market Opens in February Goal is a healthy bottom line for “People, Planet and Profit”

By Lynn Strauss After many years of planning, the Los Alamos Cooperative Market is planning to open in late February. At last count, more than 700 families have joined as members and more than $1,000,000 has been raised.

The project began in 2006 with market surveys and a membership drive. In 2009, the board voted to make Entrada Business Park the home of the Co-op. A member loan campaign began in January 2010 to raise the $1.1 million needed to open the store and acquire the initial capital, equipment, staffing, inventory and working capital. The builders broke ground in June and the building is now near completion.

Nancy Savoia was one of the founding members of the Co-op and is currently the president of the Board of Directors. She says the support from the community is the reason that this store is soon to be a reality.

“The word to describe our community in this effort is ‘amazing,’” says Ms. Savoia.

“This community has rallied to support this effort in a way that I never could have imagined.

Our members have invested and loaned over $1 million for this project.”

Members have also been a constant source of encouragement for the Board, according to Ms. Savoia. “Many have volunteered time to help us hand out flyers at the farmers’ markets and other events. They have hung in there with us, and we would not have a store opening now if they had not been there all of this time.”

In October, the Board hired General Manager Steve Watts. He started assembling a staff of 28 and overseeing the finals stages of construction of the 7,000-square-foot building.

From toilets that use rainwater to long-lasting LED lighting, the new building is evidence of the Co-op’s values. Watts says the Co-op commissioned a sustainability study to help minimize its carbon footprint, water usage and waste generation.

“I believe we have an opportunity to educate the community on the cooperative business model and its triple bottom line -- people, planet and profit,” says Mr. Watts. “We strive to optimize our positive impact in each of those three areas.”

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As for the future, Watts sees only growth. “In operations we look to grow sales while serving an ever-widening circle of customers and owners from the community, and from the surrounding areas that don’t have easy access to natural and organic food,” says Watts. “This will allow us to grow staff, compensation, and product selection while maintaining a value orientation in pricing and quality.”

Raising awareness of co-op business model, alternative health modalities and sustainable local economies will be a big part of the Co-op’s impact overall, according to Watts.

“This is what ensures our longevity, as well as the longevity of our individual owners and customers,” he says. “Now that’s a win-win!”

Co-op memberships are still available, and the Co-op is open to the general public, membership is not required. For more information, visit losalamos.coop on the web.

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FREE Monthly Lecture Series Join LAFC and Trinity Natural Health professionals for our FREE health & fitness lectures —held at the beginning of every month of 2011!

Topics include arthritis, fibromyalgia, therapeutic yoga, stress management, herbology, massage, acupressure, injury prevention, emotional health, and much more!

Call 662-5232 or visit www.losalamosfitness.com for dates & times

Just some of the many benefits of being a Y Member: FREE to Members Fitness Classes Over 50 fitness classes a week to choose from: Zumba, Yoga, Pilates, Y-Ride (“spinning”-type classes), Step, Aerobics, PowerUp, Exercise Lite, SilverSneakers...

FREE to Members Child Watch The Family YMCA 1450 Iris Street 662-3100 www.laymca.org

Child Watch provides Y Members with free on-site supervision for their children, while in the facility working out or attending classes.

Too many benefits to mention here, call us, come in or visit our website, www.laymca.org for information on all of our programs.

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Events February 2011 1 - 2 The Milky Way and Surroundings on the Caldera

19 Valentine’s Day Wine Tasting Event at Pajarito Mountain

Valles Caldera You will be able to see for yourself nearby planets, beautiful star clusters, the Milky Way, and spectacular distant spiral galaxies.

Pajarito Mountain Enjoy wine-tasting accompanied by chocolate truffles, cheese and fruit.

2 Mesa Public Library FREE Film Series presents ‘Round Midnight Mesa Public Library In ‘Round Midnight, real-life jazz legend Dexter Gordon brilliantly portrays the fictional tenor sax player Dale Turner, a musician slowly losing the battle with alcoholism, estranged from his family, and hanging on by a thread in the 1950’s New York jazz world.

25 Fuller Lodge Art Center Art Opening Reception for Outside In Exhibit Fuller Lodge Art Center Fill our space with the great outdoors! Show us the world out your back door or take us around the world.

This exhibit runs until April 2.

26 Pajarito Mountain Winter Apres Ski - Beer and Bands 3 Father/Daughter Dessert and Dance

Pajarito Mountain Marble and Thio Dimitrov Band will provide music for this event.

4 - 6 K2 Women’s Weekend at Pajarito Mountain Breast cancer research fundraiser, spa, ski clinic.

26 Pajarito Environmental Education Center presents Starlight Snowshoe for Families

8 Historical Society Lecture: Stone Calendars and Solstice Markers

Camp May in Los Alamos Hike around Camp May, Pajarito Mountain, or the Guaje Canyon Trail to Cañada Bonita with your friends and family, then meet at Camp May for a campfire and hot chocolate to warm you up.

Fuller Lodge Ron Barber will talk about the stone calendars and other astronomy of the ancient Southwest.

26 An Evening of Jazz, with the Los Alamos Big Band Fuller Lodge Eat healthy - food from local farmers and ranchers.

Crossroads Bible Church The Los Alamos Big Band is a traditional 16-piece group founded in 1984 and modeled after the dance bands of the 1930’s, 40’s, and 50’s.

11-13 Valles Caldera National Preserve presents Sleigh Wagon Rides on the Caldera

26 - 27 Valles Caldera National Preserve presents Sleigh Wagon Rides on the Caldera

10 Winter Farmers Market

Visit the Valles Caldera National Preserve at a good speed, from a horse-drawn wagon or sleigh.

Visit the Valles Caldera National Preserve at a good speed, from a horse-drawn wagon or sleigh.

12 Jazz Night with the John Trentacosta Trio Blue Window Bistro The Santa Fe based jazz group “Straight Up ”made its debut in March 1994 at the Outpost Performance Space in Albuquerque New Mexico. Since originally appearing as a trio, the group has expanded to a quintet and even a sextet at times. This wide range of diversity has made it possible for Straight Up to appear at many concerts and jazz festivals.

12 Valentine Coffee House Fuller Lodge Chamber Music featuring violinist Kay Newnam, cellist Katherine Jetter and pianist Karen Follingstad. Works of Beethoven, Liszt, Mendelssohn, Boulanger, Schumann and Shostakowitch will be performed.

12 Pajarito Mountain Winter Apres Ski - Beer and Bands Pajarito Mountain Santa Fe Brewing will provide the brew for this event.

fyi

LA.com

Community Job Board

Looking for a Job? Check out our community Job board at

fyi

13-14 Lads of Enchantment Singing Valentine

LA.com

Hire the Lads of Enchantment to give a special vocal performance and chocolates to your Valentine.

Powered by:

For details contact Claire Roybal at 661-4836 or email claire@losalamos.org

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Essence February/March 2011

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March 2011 3 Mesa Public Library FREE Film Series presents A Mighty Wind

16 Pajarito Environmental Education Center presents Santa Fe Raptor Center Presentation

Mesa Public Library When folk icon Irving Steinbloom passed away, he left behind a legacy of music and a family of performers he has shepherded to folk stardom.

PEEC The Santa Fe Raptor Center will be visiting PEEC again for one of their popular presentations - and this time, they’ll be bringing all new birds. They have an American Kestrel Falcon, a Swainson’s Hawk, and a Great Horned Owl. Learn the histories and habits of these beautiful birds

4 Los Alamos High School Art Exhibit Opening Reception Fuller Lodge Art Center Creative students and exhibit designers! High school students show off their art work and also design and creat the exhibition. Exhibit runs through March 25 during regular library hours.

18 Los Alamos Concert Association presents Imani Winds

8 Historical Society Lecture Series Manhattan Project Memories

Duane Smith Auditorium Imani Winds has established itself as more than a wind quintet. The ensemble has taken a unique path, carving out a distinct presence in the classical music world with its dynamic playing, culturally poignant programming, genre-blurring collaborations, and inspirational outreach programs.

Fuller Lodge Panel discussion by Manhattan Project veterans, who will tell their stories about the project.

26 Pajarito Environmental Education Center presents Exploring the Night Sky Star Party

10 Winter Farmers Market

PEEC Attendees will be able to look through a large 20-inch telescope and view several interesting celestial objects,

Fuller Lodge Eat healthy - food from local farmers and ranchers.

Assets In Action Community awards recognize people, groups, businesses and organizations that are making Los Alamos community a better place. Nominations are accepted throughout the year at www.AssetsinAction.info - a community building program of the Los Alamos Chamber and Juvenile Justice Advisory Board.

Businesses Decolores Hill Diner (Denise Lane and Family) Dave & Gillian Sutton (KRSN AM 1490)

Youth Anna Carroll Tom Collins Sabrina Lynne Kayla Suazo Corbin Pfeffer

Individuals

Pat Soran accepts the ‘Spirit of the West” award for his commity volunteer work

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Sharon Allen Lilly and Roger Anaya Sylvan Argo Christine Bernstein Dorothy Brown Don Casperson Loring Cox Barbara Croley Alina Deshpande Dave Foster Tony Fox Terry Foxx Juanita Hinsley the

Essence February/March 2011

Individuals cont.

Al Jiron Laura Kelly Rex Kilburn Judge Alan Kirk Stephanie Krantz Juanita Lopez Susan Herrera John Hogan Michelangelo Lobato Susan Mack Craig Martin Gene Mortensen Joyce Nickols Paula Nichols Ruth Parker and Duncan Wendy Pomeroy Matthew Schmidt Ron Selvage David Torres Wally Vette

Couples Dick and Pat Tatro

Spirit of the West Pat Soran

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Science and Math-based Art Contest Announced A science and math-based art competition and exhibit will become a part of The Next Big Idea Festival in 2011. Artist entries will begin being accepted on March 1st, 2011 at the www.NextBigIdeaLA.com. Anyone may enter their art. More than $3,000 in prizes will be awarded.

Science and math-based art demonstrates scientific or mathematical concepts, principles, or phenomena in creative ways. It can be created digitally using computers, be a photograph, or be produced through traditional fine arts methods including drawing, painting, pottery, fiber arts, etc.

The contest is free to enter. Entries to the competition can only be submitted digitally (no slides or in-person entries) to the Website. Entries will be accepted through June and will be posted to a gallery on the Website as they are received to allow for viewing and comment. Contest winners and awards will be announced in conjunction with the Next Big Idea Festival on September 17th with an exhibit.

A cornerstone feature of this contest will be the Los Alamos Public Schools Fractal Art Challenge, a division of the contest to give special recognition to local and area students. LAPS math and art education coordinators are working with the Albuquerque-based Fractal Foundation to introduce the fractal

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challenge into our school curriculum as a way to excite interest in math through creating art.

Fractal Art is a unique digital art form using mathematical formulas to create contemporary art with an amazing diversity of form, color and light. The Fractal Foundation provides free, easy to use software (download at www.fractalfoundation.org) for creating fractal art and assists teachers with incorporating the use of the software into a stimulating, interactive curriculum. Students will be encouraged to enter the art they create into the contest. The Bradbury Science Museum is also expected to offer workshops and demonstrations related to the creation of fractal art in the coming months.

The Next Big Idea has been established as Los Alamos’ “Festival of Science, Invention, Innovation, and Discovery.” 2011 will be the fourth year for the Festival, which also features a Science, Technology, Engineering, and Math (STEM) Student Day. For more information about the Next Big Idea Festival or the Science and Math-based art contest, visit www.NextBigIdeaLA.com or call Los Alamos MainStreet Manager, Suzette Fox, at 505-661-4844 or email suzette@losalamos.org.

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