Majestic Living Winter 2015 by Majestic Media

4 | MAJESTIC LIVING | WINTER 2015

contributors MarGareT CheaSebro has been a freelance writer for over 30 years. her articles have appeared in many magazines across the country. She was a correspondent for the albuquerque Journal and worked for several local newspapers. She has four published books of children’s puppet scripts. a former elementary school counselor, she is a reiki Master and practices several alternative healing techniques. She enjoys playing table tennis.

DoroThy NobiS has been a writer and editor for more than 25 years. She authored a travel guide, The insiders Guide to the Four Corners, published by Globe Pequot Press, and has been a frequent contributor to New Mexico Magazine.

Debra Mayeux, of Farmington, is an awardwinning journalist with recognitions from the associated Press of New Mexico and Colorado and the New Mexico Press association and the Colorado broadcast association. She has covered stories throughout the Southwest and in Mexico and Jordan, where she interviewed diplomats and the royal family. after nearly 20 years in the business, she recently opened her own freelance writing and media business. Mayeux enjoys the outdoors, reading and spending time with her family. She is the coordinator of Farmington Walk and roll, a Safe routes to School organization. She is married to David Mayeux and they have three children: Nick, alexander and Peter.

beN braShear has called the Southern San Juans home for most of his life. he holds a b.a. in Creative Writing from Fort Lewis College and has worked for Cutthroat: a Journal of The arts, as assistant poetry editor. he is currently working as a freelance writer and photographer based out of Durango, Colorado.

JoSh biShoP is a graduate of San Juan College with an associate degree in Digital Media arts and Design. he currently works at Majestic Media as a video producer and photographer.

WhiTNey hoWLe was born and raised in Farmington and is proud to call San Juan County home. The richness of the landscape and the diverse people, culture and traditions are a photographer’s dream. Whitney has his ba in Visual Communication from Collins College in Tempe, ariz. he is a co-owner of howle Design and Photography—a family owned studio offering graphic design, photography, market research and consulting.

publisher Don Vaughan

sales

Clint Alexander

editor Cindy Cowan Thiele

administration

designer Suzanne Thurman

Lacey Waite

writers Dorothy Nobis, Margaret Cheasebro,

MAGAZINE Celebrating the Lifestyle, Community and Culture of the Four Corners Vol. 8, No. 1 ©2015 by Majestic Media. Majestic Living is a quarterly publication. Material herein may not be reprinted without expressed written consent of the publisher. If you receive a copy that is torn or damaged call 505.516.1230. 6 | MAJESTIC LIVING | WINTER 2015

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winterfeatures: 10

George Duncan gets things done

Those who know George Duncan call him names. But none of those names are of the negative kind. By Dorothy Nobis

A Family Affair

When Bernadones’ Family Pizzeria opened on West Main in 2008, it quickly became a favorite restaurant for those who love Italian food. Alas, the restaurant closed on Aug. 31. But there’s hope for lovers of delicious Italian cuisine. By Margaret Cheasebro

16 28

Colorado Christmas Aztec Christmas activities

27 29

Durango’s Winter Wonders Bloomfield Christmas events

Farmington Christmas events

32 Eolus Bar and Dining

Passionate Advocate

Co-owner and Executive chef Chris Crowl of Eolus Bar and Dining, located at 919 Main Ave., in Durango, Colorado, sits at the bar next to Chef Daniel Morrisroe.

Beverly Charley is the new veterans’ services officer for the Farmington office of the New Mexico Department of Veterans’ Services.

By Ben Brashear

8 | MAJESTIC LIVING | WINTER 2015

By Margaret Cheasebro

A home for talent, imagination

Feat of Clay is a co-op of artists that accepts members who work in any kind of medium. For the last eight years it’s been at 107 S. Main Ave. in a high-ceilinged building flooded with light. It had its start 15 years ago in a tiny sliver of a building on Main Avenue, and it’s been an active presence in the city’s life every since. By Margaret Cheasebro

Dick and Jane’s Place

The Dick and Jane books that were popular in the 1930s-1970s showed siblings having fun and helped teach children to read. Later in the 1970s — 1979 to be exact — Dick and Jane bought Bob and Bill’s Trading Post, just north of the New Mexico state line in Colorado. By Dorothy Nobis

All about family

After 26 years, Linda McNeal is closing DeNae’s Boutique in San Juan Plaza. Her 92-year-old father, Bill Smart, needs a little extra help from his family, and Linda wants time to give him that attention.

Disaster relief

Imagine standing on the roof of an earthquake-damaged department store building in Van Nuys, California, covered in roof tar, when the president of Robinson’s May Company walks up to you and offers you a six-figure check to help your local high school.

By Margaret Cheasebro

By Debra Mayeux

66 Midwife care works in all settings

Nichelle Salazar embarked on a journey of culture, spirituality and new life when, in 2012, she decided to become a midwife. By Debra Mayeux

Labor of Love

When Shawn Archuleta and Jenny Dennis decided to have careers in law enforcement, they were ready and willing to help others. By Dorothy Nobis WINTER 2015 | MAJESTIC LIVING | 9

GeorGe Duncan

Gets thinGs Done

He’s dedicated 40 years to the betterment of Bloomfield Story by Dorothy Nobis | Photos by Whitney Howle Those who know George Duncan call him names. But none of those names are of the negative kind. DeLaws Lindsay, a member of the Bloomfield City Council, said his one word to describe Duncan was “Honorable. It’s a very huge part of his character.” Bloomfield’s Special Projects Director Teresa Brevik described Duncan as a “Visionary. He starts with the end in mind. He has a great mindset for what he sees in life.” Duncan’s office manager, Ayme Vigil, describes her boss as being generous. “He’s generous and not only with his time – and you know over almost 40 years, he has given a lot of it – but with his money to help those less fortunate or just to help out a firefighter that might be having a hard time.” “Oh, and he can be generous with his opinion as well,” Vigil added with a laugh. Bloomfield Mayor Scott Eckstein said Duncan is passionate. “I’ve known Chief Duncan for close to 30 years. I first had the opportunity to get to know and work with him in the mid-1980s while I was a Bloomfield police officer and he was the fire chief. I found George to be a person of solid character who was passionate about serving the citizens of

Bloomfield to the highest level,” Eckstein said. “He still carries that same passion with him today. To be friends with a man of his caliber, who has dedicated his entire life to the betterment of his community, is truly an honor.”

Natural born leader Curtis Lynch, a member of the Bloomfield City Council and a volunteer firefighter, calls Duncan a “natural born leader, and he truly cares about the community and its people.” “The community has grown substantially, and having a leader that has been there and knows what its needs are is important. George is the kind of leader that was needed to push to get things done, even sometimes when some people didn’t like it,” Lynch added. Bloomfield Police Chief Randy Foster offered another word to describe Duncan – community. “George is focused on making sure Bloomfield is taken care of, the children have bicycles, and that his family knows they are cared for,” Foster said of his friend and colleague. Duncan is uncomfortable with any of those responses, no matter how kind and respectful they are. Duncan isn’t one to take accolades, praise or attention without some reluctance. As

the fire chief for Bloomfield, Duncan is quick to note that any leader is only as good as those he leads. Duncan came to the city of Bloomfield as a volunteer for the Parks and Recreation Department in the mid-1970s. It wasn’t long before the young Duncan discovered a passion for the fire department and he became a volunteer firefighter. Local mortuaries were operating the ambulance service that, Duncan said, was “less than perfect.” The fire department acquired its own ambulance through a grant from the Department of Transportation, and served the southeastern part of San Juan County. While the ambulance service was needed, running it was a challenge. It was difficult to have volunteers at the ready when an ambulance was needed, and getting paid for the service was difficult. San Juan Regional Medical Center was running two ambulances in Farmington and, at the request of the Bloomfield Fire Department, agreed to take over its ambulance on the condition that the community of Bloomfield would be guaranteed service. “At the same time, we got funding from San Juan County for a rescue unit and, with the donation of a quarter acre of land, a substation WINTER 2015 | MAJESTIC LIVING | 11

was built, which housed the ambulance” Duncan said. The substation (where Big R is located now) was built and a mobile home on the property was used by paramedics as living quarters when on duty.

Bloomfield Fire Chief

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Duncan served as a volunteer firefighter for several years before being named Bloomfield’s Fire Chief in the early 1980s. Being the first paid fire chief was a challenge, Duncan admitted. “We faced a lack of funding – there was no money to speak of,” he said. “But I saw a need for the fire chief and I saw it as a challenge.” A paid fire chief came about because of necessity, Duncan explained. “There was too much to do for the volunteers. We needed to be prepared and (preparation) is very complex. Equipment has to be fueled and maintained.” “A lot of what we do revolves around small engines,” Duncan added. “If you go out to cut your lawn and the mower does not start it is an

inconvenience, but if we go out on a car accident and the equipment doesn’t work properly, somebody could die. Also, someone had to do all the administrative tasks that needed to be done, such as grants and helping the department follow nationally recognized standards and attempt to lower the ISO rate and save homeowners money on their insurance premiums.” The ISO (Insurance Services Office) grades departments on a scale of 1 to 10, with 1 being the best. Bloomfield is currently a Class 3. While the equipment continues to be maintained and administrative work complete, Duncan now has an assistant, John Mohler, who helps Duncan with those tasks and more. “He helps with policies and procedures and with grants. We’ve received in excess of $2.1 million in federal grants, and somebody has to write them and apply for them.”

Coin a phrase Mohler said Duncan has sayings that have inspired and motivated him. “I’m not sure if he coined any of them, but I first heard them coming from him,” Mohler said. “He said ‘They can’t tell you “no” if you don’t ask.’ This can apply to grants, budgets or appropriations. If you don’t ask, you are guaranteed not to get what you need.” “There is no difference between volunteer and career firefighters. We only have professional firefighters here,’ is another one of George’s sayings,” Mohler said. “Anyone who takes the time to get the required training is a professional.” Another saying Mohler appreciates is “Sometimes it is better to beg for forgiveness than to ask for permission.” Mohler added, “In emergencies, you have to make split-second decisions and you may not have the time to check with everyone who wants to be checked with. So always do what is right and you rarely need to be forgiven.” Mohler said he and Duncan have a good working relationship. “Like every department, budget is always a challenge,” Mohler said. “We are constantly asked to do more with less. Recruiting and keeping volunteers is another challenge. These days, nobody seems to have the time to volunteer. Finding new ways to get

people interested in volunteering is difficult, to say the least.” “Nobody becomes a firefighter to get rich,” Mohler added. “Firefighters, including Chief Duncan, want to help make a better community. That sense of community is part of what makes Bloomfield different from anywhere else. You have to live here to understand that.” “Our fire department is the best organization I have ever been involved with,” Curtis Lynch said. “The term ‘public safety’ is a catchall for a whole gamut of different jobs, but safety is the most important, along with protecting property. As a councilor, I believe the fire and police are two of the most important things our community needs.” Maintaining a good Insurance Services Office rating has always been important to Duncan and is equally important to Mohler. According to the ISO’s website, ISO provides a broad range of information and consulting services to insurance companies, ranging from statistical and actuarial information to policy language, to risk assessment for specific locations. ISO is perhaps best known

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as the company that provides ISO ratings for local fire departments, used by insurance companies to determine premiums for homeowner policies in that area.

A special breed The Bloomfield Fire Department has 35 volunteers – the same number it had when Duncan took over as fire chief. “Volunteers are a special breed,” Duncan said with admiration. “They give and give with little recognition. They aren’t always available (to respond to calls), but they have huge hearts and have to prioritize their families and their jobs.” And that lack of availability is why a Federal Emergency Management Agency SAFER (Staffing for Adequate Firefighter and Emergency Response) grant was sought and acquired to fund career paid firefighters for a two-year period. Currently the department has responded to in excess of 1,600 emergencies this year and will most likely top 1,800 alarms by year’s end. “I love firefighting,” Duncan added. “It’s the greatest job in the world. It gets in your blood;

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and I love the camaraderie of the firefighters, the people of the community, the other departments in the city and other fire agencies. It’s nice to serve people and help people. You don’t know what (call) you’re going to next, and knowing people need you and you get to make a difference.” The stress of always being on call and always knowing you could be called from a family event is never easy for the family, Duncan admitted. “You’re never off duty. It’s real stressful and it’s all-consuming. There’s always something to do, and sometimes your family takes a back seat.” “Bloomfield firefighters have always been like family,” John Mohler said. “Our people will always help each other out if we are able. I believe this has a lot to do with great leadership.” Family isn’t just the one you have at home, either. The firefighters are a tightly knit group and spend much of their time together.

FM radio station Always looking for new ways to serve the residents of Bloomfield, the fire department was

recently approved for a 10-year, low power FM radio station. While the goal is to provide public safety information, Duncan wants the station – KFDPLP, 93.5 – to offer more. “We’re providing quality music – a mix of all genres – and we recently added a community calendar where people can submit their events and we’ll announce them,” he said. “We also do interviews with people who have insights into our community.”

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The station provides public service announcements every 15 minutes, which are followed by another 15 minutes of music. “We’re getting a lot of positive feedback,” Duncan said of the station’s format. While the range of the station is limited because of the low power, it can be heard between five and six miles east toward Blanco, north toward Aztec, west to Crawford Mesa and south to about 10 to 15 miles out. It’s on the air 24 hours a day, seven days a week, with firefighters often offering the public service announcements, Jessica Pollaty of the Bloomfield Senior Center offering information about the center’s greenhouse building, or city staff providing updates on special projects. Another voice that’s heard is that of Ayme Vigil, office manager, who has worked for Duncan for 25 years and who offers the community calendar. “George can multi-task very well,” Vigil said. “He wears many hats. But the expectations he has set for the fire department are very high. He wants only the best for the city, the fire department and for the firefighters, and I truly believe he will not rest – or let us rest! – until he achieves what he has set out to accomplish.” As the fire department’s unofficial “mother,” Vigil said, “I baby my ‘kids’ to the point of spoiling them. But I figure they give up their time and energy to train and protect the citizens of Bloomfield and their property all hours of the day and night. The least I can do is help out when I can. I have seen some of these firefighters go from 16-year-old kids with very little responsibility to awesome adults with a great job and kids of their own.”

A volunteer at heart Vigil said Duncan understands and appreciates the volunteer firefighters as much – or more – than anyone. “Volunteers are hard to recruit and retain,” she said. “It is a challenge to get and keep volunteers but George does a good job. He’s always coming up with new ideas to draw volunteers to the fire service.” “Even though his is a paid position, whenever those tones sound (indicating a fire/emergency) he is out the door, answering calls, running trucks, fighting fires, extricating someone from a vehicle accident, delivering babies or whatever

the emergency may be.” “He has a volunteer’s heart,” Vigil added. With the department’s paid firefighters, Vigil said the pressure has become less for the volunteers. “Now, we’re assured of having firefighters respond quickly,” she said. “We can always use more, though.” In spite of spending more than 36 years as Bloomfield’s Fire Chief, Duncan has no immediate plans to retire. Part of that is because of his commitment to the department and the city. The other part is a commitment to carry on the legacy of his parents, Johnny and Minnie Duncan. Johnny Duncan was an entrepreneur in Bloomfield in the early 1960s. In addition to having a laundromat, Johnny bought a drive-in restaurant, which he named Johnny’s Drive-In. The restaurant, located across the street from Bloomfield High School, was a popular hang-out for high school students. Johnny Duncan also served as the city’s mayor. Duncan’s mother, Minnie, was a much loved and respected third and fourth grade teacher in the Bloomfield School District. The Duncans were leaders in the community and George Duncan has continued that dedication to serve.

Will retire: “Definitely when it freezes over” Duncan’s staff doesn’t think their chief will retire any time soon. When asked when he thought Duncan will retire, Mohler didn’t hesitate with his answer. “Definitely when it freezes over,” he said with a laugh. “A few years ago, we had a mid-January fire that turned one of our streets into an ice skating rink. That was when we found out the chief may walk on water, but he falls on his butt, just like the rest of us, when everything is covered in ice. So it will probably be a cold day in Bloomfield when he decides he’s had enough.” “George cares about everyone,” Curtis Lynch said. “He loves his fellow man. I believe he still has something to give (to the department and the community). And I believe a person should stay as long as they feel they can and they want to.” To which John Mohler added, “Some people never retire. They just find new and interesting ways to get the job done their way.” WINTER 2015 | MAJESTIC LIVING | 15

16 | MAJESTIC LIVING | WINTER 2015

Bernadone family put their heart and soul into new Italian restaurant

Story by Margaret Cheasebro | Photos by Whitney Howle When Bernadones’ Family Pizzeria opened on West Main in 2008, it quickly became a favorite restaurant for those who love Italian food. Alas, the restaurant closed on Aug. 31. But there’s hope for lovers of delicious Italian cuisine. The Bernadone family is working hard to open its new restaurant, Trittoria di Bernadones, next to the Blue Diamond Auto Spa and in front of Lowes on East Main. “Trittoria” is Italian for a family run and operated restaurant. It will continue to serve the delicious fare developed at the pizzeria, but the menu will include more elaborate entrees. Owner Mario Bernadone hopes the restaurant will open sometime in November, but he doesn’t talk

about dates anymore because he’s has to change them so many times. The project has taken longer partly because the restaurant is unique. “We are not restauranteurs,” Mario said. “I’m an engineer, and my wife, Laura, is a nurse. When we designed and built this restaurant, we did it from a homeowner’s standpoint, not from a restauranteur’s standpoint.” Mario and Laura have eight children and are very family oriented.

Truly authentic food Jeannette deKay of Farmington looks forward to the new restaurant. “The food is tremendous,” she said. “It was a treat to eat at their old restaurant. It is truly authentic. They are very detail oriented in the quality of their food. A restaurant like this is a wonderful addition to the community.” The roomy parking lot has several islands in which trees have been planted.

Stamped and stained concrete laid by Mario and Laura and their two oldest sons decorates part of the exterior leading to the entrance door with an arch. Wrought iron work helps adorn the outside. It was designed by Mario, and his family helped to install it. Flowers, grape vines and an herb garden enhance the landscaping. The herbs will be used in restaurant dishes. “We had limited funding for this project,” said Mario. “We asked for $3 million; we received about half of that. It meant that we had to truncate our project.” It was reduced in size from a 7,200square-foot building to a 4,800-squarefoot structure. Mario plans to someday add 2,400 square feet to the building and include a fire pit, fountain, stage for live music, and outdoor seating area.

Waiting area has rustic look

Booths designed by Mario

Even the waiting area has an Italian feel to it. Mario calls it the cave, and his sons coated the ceiling and walls with a special lime plaster to give it a rustic look. Above the arch leading into the restaurant is a replica of part of the Sistine Chapel’s ceiling painted by Michelangelo. It depicts the hand of God meeting the hand of man. “The arch goes from the great to the small, from heaven to earth,” said Mario. “It’s kind of our theme here.” Throughout the restaurant is evidence of Mario’s engineering skills and his desire for perfection. Every table is made of a granite slab with a specially designed metal support to easily accommodate a mop and to keep people from bumping their knees on a table leg. “Each piece of granite is unique in color and design,” Mario said. “It would cost me less to buy remnants, but we wanted to reflect the natural design of God and the universe, all his pieces so perfect.”

There are four-person, six-person, eight-person and even ten-person booths, each with high backed wooden benches designed by Mario. He and his sons poured concrete underneath each booth seat to keep spilled drinks at bay. “I’m kind of a clean freak,” Mario explained. “I want everything to be clean for our customers.” Even the bathrooms are unique. A colorful glass sink shaped like a bowl sits under a faucet cupped by a smaller bowl. Water from the faucet spills over the little bowl and tumbles into the sink like a waterfall. Mario is especially proud of the kitchen, where two wood-fired ovens sit. Pizzas will bake quickly in those ovens. “These are real bricks,” Mario said about the ovens. “When this gets done, you’ll be looking at not just a cooking apparatus but a work of art.” Around the corner sits a wood fired grill imported from Italy, complete with a rotisserie. It contains drawers for ashes and wood. “There

18 | MAJESTIC LIVING | WINTER 2015

will be skewers that go across and you can see the meat rotating. You can cook chickens, porchetta, salmon,” said Mario. He ticked off several items on his fingers.

No microwaves “We don’t have a microwave in this place,” he added. His theory is that microwaves introduce radiation to food that can harm people. “We go back to the old way. We cook with wood. It’s much better tasting. It’s labor intensive, but we do the work for you.” They even have a water softener and reverse osmosis machine so customers drink purified water and ice. There are plenty of granite counter tops on which restaurant staff make pasta, ice cream, dough, gelato and a variety of sauces from scratch. “Italians love to do things for others,” Mario said. “They have large hearts. It’s not enough to say, ‘I’m going to heat up in the microwave a piece of pizza for you.’ No. It has to be the

best that they can do. That’s what we try to do here. We import our flour from Italy. We use the best cheeses, the best sauce. We make everything from scratch as much as we can. If you have something from here, it’s going to taste unique because we don’t spare any

very popular drink,” Mario said. “When I came to New Mexico, I said, ‘It’s hot here. They need that granita.’ So we started serving it at the other restaurant, and it was very popular.” There’s also an Espresso machine. The menu is taking shape and should be

expense or amount of labor to do it right.”

Italian ice machine The drink area sports a lemon Italian ice machine. “Back east where I come from, granita is a

# WINTER 2015 | MAJESTIC LIVING | 19

completed within a year. In the meantime, Trittoria di Bernadones serves a large variety of appetizers, salads, pizzas, calzones, sandwiches, kids’ meals, entrees, desserts, and beverages, including beer and wine. “Bernadones restaurant is my family’s favorite, hands down,” said Paul Briones of Farmington. “We can’t wait for their larger menu. The Bernadones are a beautiful, faithfilled family. They make you feel at home.”

Every other weekend the couple invited friends to come and sample their home cooked meals. “We cooked for 100 people,” he recalled. “We made homemade pasta and pizza from scratch. We always were serving sea food or doing something a little bit differently than everybody else was. Our friends loved to come out to eat with us and have a glass of wine.”

Discover Farmington Grew up in large family That sense of home came naturally to both Laura and Mario, who grew up in large families, Laura in California and Mario in Southbridge, Massachusetts, where he graduated from high school in 1983. He lived close to his extended Italian family, and no matter what house he went to, the women would insist that he eat something they’d made. That’s how they showed their love, and Mario soon equated food with love. When his family moved to Rhode Island, he attended the University of Rhode Island and graduated in 1991 with a bachelor of science degree and a master’s in structural engineering, with an emphasis on seismic design. The California Department of Transportation hired him right out of college. He was among 900 engineers hired to work on a bridge retrofit program after the 1989 Loma Prieta Earthquake. He settled in California, where he met Laura in 1993. They married in 1995 and their first child arrived in 1998.

By the time they had four kids, close friends they’d met in California moved to Farmington and invited them to come for a visit. “When we saw Farmington, we said, ‘Wow, this is unique,’” recalled Mario. “It’s quiet. There’s not as many people. It’s very clean, the air is tremendous, and the mountains are so beautiful nearby.” Mario and Linda decided to leave California and settle in Farmington. They came without any jobs in 2004. In June 2005, Mario found work as an engineer with a company that paid him far less than he’d received in California. His work confined him to a cubicle. It was a struggle to support Laura and their four children. They had to give up their plan to build their dream home. “I’m kind of a people person, and Laura and I like to entertain,” he said. “So we started thinking at night what could we do as a family.” They thought back to their California days when they cooked for 100 friends every other weekend and decided they could make a living if they opened a pizzeria in Farmington.

Seek simple life Seeking a simple life, they bought a five-acre ranch near Grass Valley, California. It contained a pond and irrigation as well as a river, wooded and meadow areas. “We started raising goats, chickens, rabbits, dogs and cats,” said Mario. “We planted a vineyard and had an orchard and a garden. We grew all our own crops and survived off the food we produced.” They made cheese and canned a variety of foods. From the ranch, Mario drove 45 minutes each way to his engineering job in Sacramento four days a week. 20 | MAJESTIC LIVING | WINTER 2015

Designed a restaurant So they bought a third of an acre that was once a gas station at 933 W. Main St. Mario designed a restaurant that seated 60 people. Because there weren’t a lot of parking spaces, they decided to make it a drive-through restaurant where people could grab a pizza and a glass of lemon granita. “But our customers decided it was not a drive-through,” Mario related. “It was a sit-down restaurant, and they liked the

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FOUR CORNERS’

FOOD, MUSIC, FAMILY, FRIENDS & FUN

IN THE FOLLOWING PAGES, WE’VE GIVEN YOU A GUIDE TO ALL THE SIGHTS AND SOUNDS OUR AREA HAS TO OFFER THIS HOLIDAY SEASON.

SMALL TOWN

Colorado Christmas The Southwestern holiday style of Dolores, Manco and Cortez Story by Gail Vanik | Courtesy photos A short drive away from the Farmington area is a place where Christmas magic abounds. From music to mesas to picturesque mountain towns, if you are looking for jolly holiday events, you may not have to look any further than your own backyard this season. Montezuma County is full of the spirit of the season! Tucked away into the Four Corners region, the towns of Cortez, Dolores, and Mancos offer something for everyone throughout the months of November and December.

24 | MAJESTIC LIVING | WINTER 2015

Dolores Shops Local

Manco has Christmas for Cowboys

Reminiscent of the mountain towns that helped build the state of Colorado, the charming town of Dolores will remind you of the true meaning of the word “local.” Their “Shop Local” promotion kicks the season off Nov. 28 and runs through Dec. 19. The Community Center hosts the Christmas Bazaar from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. on Saturday, Dec. 6, where you’ll find all kinds of gifts and goodies for your holiday giving. If fine arts are more your style, wander over to the Dolores River Brewery. They hold a Fine Arts and Crafts Show on the same days and during the same times. On Saturday, Dec. 11, at 5:30 p.m. at the Galloping Goose Museum on Railroad Avenue, Santa will light the lights for their Yule Log Bonfire, and pass out cocoa, cookies and candy for the children. The lights will be up on the south side of the mountains surrounding the town and they are a festive and spectacular sight when viewed from Dolores. More information on the events in the Dolores area can be found on the Chamber of Commerce website at www.doloreschamber.com or by calling 970.882.4018.

If you have never been to Mancos, be prepared to find a small town full of all the charm of yesteryear. If Christmas for cowboys is what you are seeking, then Mancos is the right place to find it. The Mancos Olde Fashioned Christmas celebration begins on Friday, Dec. 4, starting with the 6th Annual Christmas on the Trail and 5th Annual “Night of the Cowboy” western gear show and sale at the Goodnight Gallery from 5 to 7 p.m. The Rockin’ W Chuck Wagon sets up in front of the gallery offering homemade chili, sopapillas and coffee. Inside you’ll find the work of Nathaniel’s – a western hatmaker – Ann Schwarting – western contemporary jewelry, and Steve Williams of Cowboy Forge. A custom spur maker, leather worker, and saddle maker join the artists on display. This event is entertaining, free, and open to the public. It’s the Goodnight Gallery’s way of thanking everyone for their support throughout the year. At 6 p.m. join the locals for the “Rudolph Run” – a two-mile fun run around downtown. It’s open to all ages. Costumes are encouraged

for this fun-filled event, and it’s a great way to work off the chili and sopapillas! Add in a Christmas Cookie Contest at the Columbine Bar at 6:30 p.m. and an old-fashioned tree lighting, complete with a visit from Santa, at Pioneer Park at 7 p.m. Following the tree lighting, finish with a holiday movie at the Community Center, complete with treats, and you’ve got the perfect recipe for a fun-filled holiday evening. If Christmas music is what the holidays mean to you, enjoy the Mancos Valley Chorus at 3:30 p.m. Dec. 7 and 13, and again at 7 p.m. on Dec. 12 at the Mancos Valley United Methodist Church. This group has been singing together for a number of years and has become a holiday fixture in the community. They also will lift their voices in the spirit of the season in Cortez at the Cortez United Methodist Church at 7 p.m. on Dec. 9. Additional information on the holiday events in Mancos can be found on the Chamber’s website at www.mancoscolorado.com or by calling 970.533.7725.

Cortez decorates main street and lights up Mesa Verde Not to be outdone, Cortez holds a host of events in the weeks leading up to the holidays. The Parade of Lights is the epitome of small town holiday charm. Imagine Main Street in any small town during the holiday season. The store windows are gaily decorated. Decorations hang from the street lights. There’s a chill in the air.

music to this festive celebration of the season. Some aren’t even floats, as horses, fire trucks, motorcycles and other modes of transportation – even reindeer – have been known to journey down Main Street during the Parade. This year’s Parade of Lights will be held on Saturday, Dec. 5, down Main Street in Cortez and the theme this year is “Rockin’ Around the Christmas Tree.” The Parade kicks off at 6 p.m. – but a word to the wise – get there long before that. People come early just to save the best spaces.

Then imagine the street completely dark except for the floats coming down the middle of the street, and you’ll have a good idea of what the Parade of Lights is like. Sponsored by the Board of Realtors, each year a new theme is chosen and many of the businesses, civic groups, churches and youth groups in town participate. Prizes are given, so it’s a fun-filled and festive competition as each tries to outdo the other in their interpretation of that year’s theme. Each year is a delightful surprise as the floats are funny, religious, bright and bold, and sometimes outrageous. Some carry bands who lend their

If all of this doesn’t put you in the mood for the holiday season, there are two other events which have become holiday traditions in the area and aren’t to be missed. The first is the Luminaria Holiday Open House at Mesa Verde National Park. Held this year on Thursday, Dec. 10, the staff at the park hosts this yearly event from 4 to 9 p.m. All are invited to visit during the celebration which features special tours, musical entertainment and refreshments. However, the big draw is the luminaria display which lights up the pathways in the Park and Spruce Tree House. “Serene” is perhaps the best word to describe glowing luminarias in the winter air. The Chapin Mesa Archaeological Museum remains open until 9 p.m. and there is musical entertainment in the auditorium there throughout the evening. The Museum bookstore is open and admittance is free. Dress warmly and bring a flashlight if you plan to walk the paths. No Park admission fee is charged after 4 p.m. and more information can be obtained by calling the park at 970.529.4465.

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If you don’t care to drive the road up to the Park, there is an additional opportunity to enjoy the Southwestern luminaria tradition in the area. “Luminaria Night” at Four Seasons Greenhouse and Nursery, located halfway between Cortez and Dolores, is the most magi-

26 | MAJESTIC LIVING | WINTER 2015

cal night of the year. Beginning at 5 p.m. on Thursday Dec. 3, enjoy over 1,000 luminarias, live musical entertainment by local community groups ranging from children’s choirs to the Four Corners Community Band, Santa, and refreshments. This annual evening is a popular

attraction among many in the region and is free as a thank-you to all. Cortez, Dolores, and Mancos offer a number of wonderful hotels, bed and breakfasts, and motels in case the drive home after a day’s festivities seems a little daunting, or if the weather doesn’t cooperate. There is also a wide range of wonderful restaurants offering everything from steak to sushi. Whether it’s a Cowboy Christmas or the grace and quiet beauty of luminarias, there’s something for everyone in the Southwestern style in the Four Corners this holiday season. Enjoy the beauty found right in your own backyard and the local, friendly fun that comes from these small towns and the holiday mountain traditions surrounding them.

DURANGO’S

Winter Wonders

A blanket of fresh powder cloaks the rugged mountains in Southwestern Colorado for Durango’s magical winter season! In addition to skiing and winter sports, our charming Colorado mountain town boasts a vibrant arts scene, relaxing natural hot springs, five craft breweries, scrumptious locally inspired cuisines, unique winter festivals, and more – all set in a quintessential Old West mountain town. With over a Dozen Vacations in One Destination, start planning your Colorado winter vacation at www.durango.org.

December 4, 5, 11, 12, 18, 19, Christmas Tree Train Durango Train Depot 10 a.m. – 3 pm Create a new family memory! Ride the regular Cascade Canyon Train but come prepared to cut your own Christmas Tree to be hauled back to Durango on the steam train! Maybe this will be a romantic couples-day to choose your first Christmas tree together. www.durangotrain.com

December 4 Noel Night 10 a.m. to 9 p.m. Downtown Durango Noel Night is a seasonal tradition in celebration of Durango's local, independent businesses and our community. Special events and sales all day in Durango's downtown.

Through Jan. 2 The Polar Express Based on the award-winning book by Chris Van Allsburg and adapted to the big screen in 2003, the story of a child's Christmas Eve journey comes alive onboard THE POLAR EXPRESS™! All ages can enjoy the experience, warmth and fun of the Christmas season on a special trip to the North Pole! Ticket prices and schedules at 1.888.872.4607 or visit www.durangotrain.com/events/ polar-express

December. 4 and 5 Holiday Arts and Crafts Festival Saturday - 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. La Plata County Fairground Sunday 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Gifts and decorations for the holidays at La Plata Fairgrounds. Contact fairandphoto@frontier.net or 970.247.2117

December 11, 12 & 13 State Street Ballet of Santa Barbara’s Nutcracker with the San Juan Symphony December 11 • 7 p.m. December 12 and 13 • 2 p.m. Community Concert Hall at Fort Lewis College As has become tradition at the Community Concert Hall, the magical holiday ballet, “Nutcracker,” performed by the highly-acclaimed State Street Ballet of Santa Barbara, will usher in the holidays with two matinee and two evening performances. Artistic Director Rodney Gustafson holds true to the original classical ballet in this Tchaikovsky masterpiece, creating a traditional “Nutcracker” set in Victorian times and suited for all ages. For the first time at the Community Concert Hall, the ballet will feature a live orchestra, as the San Juan Symphony is set to perform.

December 17 Bar D Wranglers Christmas Jubilee Durango’s much-beloved cowboy crooners come off the Bar D and return to the Community Concert Hall stage for their traditional cowboy Christmas show. Founded by Cy Scarborough in 1969, the Bar D Wranglers offer their own unique style of Western music, cowboy poetry and humor. The Christmas Jubilee is a warm-hearted and funfilled show that inspires the entire family to remember the true meaning of the holidays. December 31 Durango Mountain Resort Torchlight parade and fireworks! Durango loves a party, and we have a great one on New Year's Eve at the mountain. Enjoy the torchlight parade down the mountain, followed by fireworks and a party to ring in the new year! January 1, 2016 New Year’s Day Brunch Train For a trip reminiscent of turn-of-the-century travel, start the New Year onboard the D&SNG steam-powered train. Standard class and Premium class seating is available. Our Premium-class passengers can enjoy a delicious hot brunch buffet, live music and scrumptious desserts while traveling through the pristine winter wonderland along the Animas River to Cascade Canyon wye. Ticket prices and schedules at 1.888.872.4607 or www.durangotrain.com WINTER 2015 | MAJESTIC LIVING | 27

December is packed with Christmas activities in Aztec

Aztec High School Play December 3 to 5 Aztec High School starts oﬀ the festivities with the play, “Good News,” December 3 through 5 in the AHS multi-purpose room. Tickets are $5. The play will be performed all three nights at 7 p.m. with an additional matinee at 2 p.m. Saturday, December 5. Business lighting contest December 4 to 31 A business lighting contest December 4 through 31 will help to light up businesses anywhere in Aztec. Every business that

registers, puts up lights, and has no more than three nights when the lights are oﬀ will receive a $75 electric utility credit from the city of Aztec. Prizes include first place of a $3,000 electric utility credit, second place of a $2,000 electric utility credit, third place of a $1,000 electric utility credit, and two honorable mentions of a $250 electric utility credit each. Businesses must have a commercial utility account to enter. Aztec Ruins Evening of Lights December 10 On Thursday, Dec. 10, the Aztec Ruins National Monument will host an Evening of

Lights from 6 to 8 p.m. “This is the one night a year that we light Aztec West from the inside using LED lanterns,” said Park Ranger Danielle York. “It will be lit from the inside of the rooms, so folks can walk into the central plaza and see an evening of lights.” Volunteers will help people to park. Visitors will follow luminaria lights to the visitors’ center Friends of Aztec Ruins will serve hot chocolate and cookies, and there may be some kids’ activities. People may view newly installed exhibits in the museum, which was completely redesigned in April. Christmas Carnival/Holiday Celebration December 11 The Aztec Boys and Girls Club will host a Christmas carnival from 3 to 6 p.m. at 311 S. Ash Street. It is open to all youth, even if they are not a club member. The Aztec Library Holiday Celebration is scheduled from 6 to 8 p.m. at 319 S. Ash Ave. Santa will be there, giving away books to children. Hot chocolate and cookies will be served, and kids are invited to participate in craft activities.

Aztec Sparkles Christmas Festival December 12 The day begins with an arts and crafts fair at the Aztec Senior Center, 101 S. Park Avenue, from 8 a.m. to 2 p.m. There will be a full service concession stand serving such things as lemonade, cinnamon rolls and hamburgers. From 9 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Jump N Fun will host a children’s carnival with carnival rides. It will be outside the Aztec Senior Center, 101 S. Park Avenue, on the grass next to Chaco Street. At 10 a.m. people may participate in the 5K Santa Dash. All runners must wear a Santa hat and shirt, and each runner will get a bag of goodies. The dash will begin at the Rose Garden in front of Aztec City Hall on Chaco Street. It will continue down Main Avenue to Llano Street, 28 | MAJESTIC LIVING | WINTER 2015

then down to Hartman Park where it will continue across the pedestrian bridge to Riverside Park. Runners will jog around the pond there and then proceed up the staircase to the Money Makin’ Bridge across the Animas River on Chaco Street. From there, they will jog down Chaco Street to the Rose Garden where the race began. From 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. people may shop with downtown businesses and guest artisans during a special Christmas shopping day. Businesses have been asked to oﬀer specials and to host Santa. Owners of vacant buildings are being asked to host an artisan or crafter in that building for the day. From 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. there will be live music at Rubio’s Patio at the corner of Main Avenue and Chuska Street. So far, three bands have been lined up, among them And Beyond and Thomas Hinds. From noon to 4 p.m. there will be hay wagon rides. People will climb on the wagons in the downtown plaza beside Rubio’s on Main Avenue. As the wagons move down Main Avenue, Santa and carolers will greet them. From 2:30 to 4:30 p.m. there will be face painting at the Aztec Senior Center in connection with the children’s carnival. At 5 p.m. the Christmas Light Parade will start at Zia Street and Main Avenue. It will travel down Main Avenue and end on Staﬀord Street at the north end of Aztec Boulevard. All floats in the parade must be lighted. At 6 p.m. there will be a free kids’ movie at the Aztec Senior Center. At 7:30 p.m., Leon and the Chain will be in concert at Crash Music on North Main Avenue. Free Christmas Meal December 25 From 11 a.m. to1 p.m. Christmas Day, a free Christmas meal will be served at the Aztec Senior Center at 101 S. Park Avenue. The cost of turkeys and all the trimmings will be paid for through donations. Anything not covered by donations will be provided by the city of Aztec.

Bloomfield Christmas events December 5 Salmon Ruins Annual Holiday Arts & Crafts Fair 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. McGee Park Salmon Ruins brings artisans from throughout the Four Corners to Farmington to display and sell their wares at McGee Park. Traditional and contemporary hand-made jewelry, pottery, lapidary, Christmas ornaments and decoration, silver, western style belt buckle or bolo ties, and numerous other specialty handcrafts will be for sale. All proceeds are used for educational programming at Salmon Ruins Museum. Information: 505.632.2013 December 7 Bloomfield Christmas Parade The 8th Annual Christmas Parade will be held at 6:30 p.m. The 8th Annual Christmas Parade will be held at 6:30 p.m. December 7 Bloomfield Celebration of Lights Bloomfield’s Celebration of Lights Christmas display will be oﬀered December 7-January 4, 2016 at Salmon Park, 501 N. 5th Street. The oﬃcial lighting of the displays will be held after the Christmas Parade on December 7. For more information or to purchase a display, call 505-632-5600.

candy. Luminarias will line the streets and parks in Bloomfield and a hot air balloon will be tethered outside the Cultural Center. For more information, call 505-632-0880, December 10 Deck the House The Bloomfield Deck the House holiday display judging will be held from 7-9 p.m. December 10. Applications for those wishing to be included in the judging are available at the Bloomfield Chamber of Commerce oﬃce, 224 Broadway. For more information, call 505-632-0880. December 12 Bloomfield Craft Fair 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. Bloomfield High School 520 N. First St. Bloomfield Great opportunity to get that last minute shopping done and find that one of a kind Christmas gift! All proceeds from space sales will go to the Bloomfield Boys and Girls Club and the Bloomfield High School Cheerleaders. Information: 505.486.6244

December 10 Santa in the Park anta in the Park will be held from 4-7 p.m. December 10 at the Bloomfield Cultural Center on First Street in Bloomfield. Free photos of children with Santa and his elves will be oﬀered. Elves will also hand out free coloring books and WINTER 2015 | MAJESTIC LIVING | 29

Farmington Christmas events

DECEMBER 2 - 5 FESTIVAL OF TREES Explore a winter wonderland amid an indoor forest of artfully decorated Christmas trees at the annual Festival of Trees. Enjoy special events including Teddy Bear Tea, Storytelling, Family Night, and more, at the Farmington Civic Center. This event is organized by Presbyterian Medical Services. Information: 505.599.1148 DECEMBER 3 FARMINGTON CHRISTMAS PARADE The annual lighted Christmas parade runs from 5:45 p.m. to 10 p.m. Parade route runs through Historic Downtown Farmington along Main Street. For parade applications and theme, call the Farmington Chamber of Commerce. Information: 505.325.0279

sharing the evening with us. This is a free event. Information: 505.566.2480 or www.fmtn.org/spcc

DECEMBER 3 CHRISTMAS HOLIDAY DELIGHT Get into the spirit of the season with Sycamore Park Community Center, 1051 Sycamore St., from 6 p.m. to 8 p.m. Cookies and hot chocolate are available to celebrate Christmas. Come prepared with your Christmas list; Santa will be

DECEMBER 4 RIVERGLO Berg Park is illuminated by hundreds of luminaries along the edge of the Animas River. Bundle up your family or invite that special someone for an unforgettable evening. Stop along the trail to enjoy carolers, musical performances, bonfires, a live nativity and, of course, Santa! This annual Farmington event takes place along the trails of Berg Park – 6 p.m. to 8 p.m. DECEMBER 5 SAN JUAN COLLEGE LUMINARIES Take part in a beautiful New Mexico tradition and walk or drive through one of the largest luminaria displays in northwest New Mexico. Enjoy the luminarias, holiday music, carolers, hot chocolate, a star gaze and live nativity. Display illuminates the campus of San Juan College with thousands of candlelit sacks. San Juan College is located at 4601 College Blvd., Farmington. Red Apple Transit provides bus service through the display; call for details. Information: 505.566.3403 DECEMBER 5 SALMON RUINS HOLIDAY ARTS & CRAFTS FAIR From 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Salmon Ruins brings together artisans from throughout the Four Corners to display and sell their wares at McGee Park, oﬀ Hwy. 64, between Farmington and Bloomfield, N.M. Information: 505.632.2013 DECEMBER 6 MIRACLE ON MAIN STREET Celebrate the magic of Christmas at the new Miracle on Main Street holiday event from 2 p.m. to 6 p.m. at the Farmington Civic Center, 200 W. Arrington St. There will be a lot to do inside and outside to get you into the holiday spirit. Activities include a holiday tree lighting, ice-skating rink, caroling, visit with Santa – and so much more. Information: 505.599.1148

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DECEMBER 7 TO JANUARY 9 ICE SKATING Get ready for winter fun! Farmington has a unique treat for families this winter – an outdoor ice-skating rink! The rink will be open to the public weekdays from noon to 6 p.m. and weekends from 4 p.m. to 8 p.m. at the Farmington Civic Center, 200 W. Arrington St. Admission will be $5 for one-hour skate and skate rental. Information: 505.599.1148

DECEMBER 12 JINGLE BELL JAMBOREE Join the Farmington Recreation Center, Farmington Aquatic Center, and Sycamore Park Community Center as we celebrate the holidays with Jingle Bell Jamboree from 10 a.m. to noon at the Recreation Center, 1101 Fairgrounds Road. Visit Santa and tell him what you want for Christmas, create a festive holiday craft, play games, and enjoy a doughnut with a hot cup of cocoa! There is a suggested donation of $2 which will be contributed to charity, or bring two canned food items to help those in need. Information: 505.599.1184, 505.599.1167, 505.566.2480, or www.fmtn.org/prcaevents

Corners area since 2003, making use of the library’s architectural features, which include solstice markers, carefully calibrated and carved into the sandstone floor. Information: 505.599.1270 or www.infoway.org DECEMBER 23 LIVE NAVAJO NATIVITY Since 1985 Navajo Ministries has presented this

annual live nativity. A local favorite, it is a can’t miss Christmas tradition. The nativity scene uses traditional Navajo garments and live animals and is presented entirely by children at the Four Corners Home for Children, 2103 W. Main St. in Farmington, from 6 p.m. to 8 p.m. Information: 505.325.0255, 888.325.0255 or www.navajoministries.org

DECEMBER 18 AN EVENING OF GIVING WITH SHELDON PICKERING AND FRIENDS The benefit concert from 7 p.m. to 9 p.m. at the Henderson Fine Arts Center at San Juan College features Sheldon Pickering and Friends for the IGW Pediatric Cancer Foundation that helps raise awareness and monetary support for families with children fighting cancer. Information: 505.258.8148. DECEMBER 19 REINDEER ROMP Join us for a little holiday cheer and participate in the 5K Reindeer Romp or the two-mile North Pole Stroll! Held at Orchard Plaza in Historic Downtown Farmington from 4 p.m. to 6 p.m., this is a family friendly event with children’s winter carnival games, live holiday music, hot chocolate, hot apple cider, holiday cookies, and a chance to see Santa! Information: 505.599.1184 DECEMBER 21 WINTER SOLSTICE The Farmington Public Library has hosted the annual Winter Solstice Celebration for the Four WINTER 2015 | MAJESTIC LIVING | 31

Eolus Bar and dining

The odyssey of Chris Crowl and James Allred Story and photos by Ben Brashear Co-Owner and Executive Chef Chris Crowl of Eolus Bar and Dining, located at 919 Main Ave. in Durango, Colorado, sits at the bar next to Chef Daniel Morrisroe. Light from the Main Avenue window barely illuminates them in the still quiet of the afternoon. Front of the house staff on occasion tread past the two men who are fine tuning the menu for the Garden Project’s annual fundraiser – a fundraiser supporting community gardens and a chance for Eolus to support local farmers. Dining room manager and Co-Owner James Allred quickly paces in from the kitchen, and tucking in his pistachio green oxford asks Crowl, “Should we check out the rooftop?” Crowl sits up. Pushing loose strands of his salt and pepper hair underneath his mesh trucker hat reveals large ear piercings and ¾-length Maori style tattoo sleeves on both arms, “Yeah, let’s see what’s going on up there,” he says. Standing at over six feet tall, Crowl leads Allred to the back of the house and up a narrow 32 | MAJESTIC LIVING | WINTER 2015

flight of stairs. Crowl pushes open the door; the bright sun and the recently trimmed garden stops the two in their tracks. Metal troughs and wooden planter boxes sit to the left and right of the walkway full of fresh garden herbs, rows of tarragon and pineapple mint. Deck chairs sit turned upside down, wine glasses are racked, and a tray holding several bottles of olive oil rests on the empty bar. “It looks totally different up here,” Crowl laughs. “It’s not the same in the daytime,” Allred kicks back. The two men pace the length of the dining area. Crowl plans where decorative lights will hang and continues to marvel at the way everything looks as Allred sizes up where he will install the storm door to help keep guests warm. “Honestly, I wish some of my education was vocational,” Allred says as he looks at where the door for the covered dining area will go. “You

know, plumbing and carpentry to keep this restaurant up and running tip-top.” Crowl and Allred’s devotion to their restaurant extends far beyond the fact that Eolus is still in its 2-year infancy. It even goes beyond their performing the thankless maintenance tasks themselves, and extends to transforming the restaurant culture from within, the paradigm that the bosses don’t get their hands dirty. “It all comes from setting the culture and reforming the standard. The best part is that the employees know that they have their bosses working side by side with them,” Allred says. The two descend the stairs back into the restaurant as the conversation digresses from the dignity of hard work to what’s really important – talk of the mountains and skiing. Crowl’s eyes light up as he goes into the intricacies of his new splitboard setup and the custom Dynafit binding/boot combination he has retrofitted to allow him to snowboard in the backcountry. It’s clear

that both men maintain a “work hard play hard” mentality, and one of the many reasons Eolus is a “dinner only” establishment – that and their families. In 1992 Crowl was just finishing a 21-month program at the Culinary Institute of America (C.I.A.) in Hyde Park, New York – celebrity chef Anthony Bourdain is an alumnus. He was logging an exhausting number of hours at the Four Seasons as a Sous Chef and trying to learn every station, even pastries, when he heeded the call of the west. “I had a calling out to the mountains,” Crowl says. Sun Valley resort hired him on under the pretense of “fine dining,” Crowl mocks, and stuck him on the breakfast crew. Unbeknown to Crowl, it would be a phone call from a C.I.A. friend working at Krabloonik, a fine dining establishment accessed by dog sled and serving caribou, elk, and bison located in Snowmass, Colorado, that would ultimately set his career on track. “My buddy called me up boasting that Aspen had just got nine feet of powder, and that’s all it took. I asked him to get me on with the crew and moved there anyway that summer,” Crowl says. Crowl worked the line on up to eventually attain his position as executive chef over the next six years at Krabloonik. But, it would seem that with such an accelerated career Crowl felt that there was still a lot to be learned, that he was missing something. “I realized that I needed to take a step back in my career and really focus on my learning, on my training,” Crowl recalls. “I wanted to make sushi.” He left Krabloonik and had to convince world-renowned sushi chef Nobuyuki Matsuhisa, or “Nobu,” at Matsuhisa’s to let him simply work as a line cook working sauté or the tempura, despite his experience as an executive chef. Although the chefs were traditional Japanese and very guarded with their techniques, it was Crowl’s hard work and devotion to the craft that eventually got them to lower their guard. “I proved I was a passionate worker and always carried a notepad. The sushi chefs would call me over and show me different things; they said it took five years to learn how to cook rice. Maybe to be a master but I’m a western chef, I respect the tradition, but I just wanted to learn how to do it. It was a huge turning point in my career,” Crowl says. Allred glances at Crowl as though he knows

Crowl’s story verbatim as he runs his hand through his gelled hair and smiles. “I don’t have any formal training in Hospitality,” he says. “It’s just been a lifetime of experience for me. I started out as a worker bee at McDonalds and then started moving around. I realized in my twenties, working as a server in the Tetons, that there was actual money, a career, to be made in this industry.” Allred bounced back and forth between the Tetons and Resort Island in Florida, serving tables, and eventually as a manager, and earning a level 1 sommelier certification, but it was the

lure of the mountains that landed him in Telluride to work for Chad Scothorn at the Cosmopolitan. And it is here, looking back, one might be convinced of a divine hand laying out the intricate paths of Crowl and Allred that the fates were truly behind their odyssey and the genesis of Eolus Bar and Dining. Crowl, in 2007, worked for Scothorn for no wage, or “staged,” in order to learn the kitchen and prove himself at the Cosmopolitan. “I brought five days of clothes and my knives ready to work,” Crowl said, “and that first night we did 237 covers. It was like double clutchin’

WINTER 2015 | MAJESTIC LIVING | 33

and finding that high gear you know.” Crowl was hired on as Executive Chef and helped to build the kitchen at what would become Cosmo Bar and Dining in Durango. Allred’s past association with the Cosmopolitan allowed him in 2010 to join Cosmo as the dining room manager. In 2013, a yearlong disagreement over the direction of the restaurant between Allred, Crowl and Scothorn led to the eventual firing of Crowl and Allred. In response, the kitchen and front of the house staff walked out in support of the two. It’s now 6:30 p.m. and it’s a full house at Eolus. Tungsten lamps hang low over the tables casting a warm hue over the room. Large abstract paintings of topographical detail depict

the Silverton area and Mount Eolus. An eight top of Twin Buttes farmers that supply Eolus with fresh produce sit adjacent to the small corner booth that Crowl and Allred now occupy. “A little off topic,” Crowl says waving his hand toward the table of farmers “but, that’s what I love about this community, the partnership we have developed with local farmers, farmers coming in here enjoying themselves, dinner, and even a hug from me sometimes,” he says. Crowl, demurely laughs off his digression as he remembers being fired by Scothorn. “Some interesting things happened then, you know, things went south between us and Scothorn, but we worked hard to get back from that,” he says.

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Shortly after being fired, the two men spent the next six months working with local investors to buy out Scothorn. The two wanted to rebuild the restaurant into an image that reflected their unique personality and the community of Durango. “We were using parts of our brain that we hadn’t used since high school,” Allred jokes as he remembers all of the lawyers and long hours drafting a viable business plan. “We were sitting there, late into the night, searching for a bunch of names as we were “war rooming” around James’ kitchen table trying to establish our new identity,” Crowl reminisces. “We threw around names like Aspect and Spire, looked at maps of the area and even considered a variety of train names.”

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The words have barely left his lips as Allred sits up and interjects, “Yeah, but it was April that landed us on Eolus,” he says. “You’re right, yeah, it was my wife, April, that suggested Eolus,” Crowl says. The two liked the sound of Eolus and loved the many connotations associated with the Greek god of wind, Aeolus, and with the 14,000-foot Mount Eolus located in the Needle Mountain range north of Durango. And it was with that gentle westerly wind of Aeolus that Allred and Crowl pushed the restaurant to what it has now become. “We left Bar and Dining in the name as a nod to the past,” Crowl says, “and we kept some of the familiar classics I had been cooking. But, you know, we also have the nightly features where we can really push the boundaries. You want to create things that have a sense of familiarity but also a sense of something new.” Pushing the boundaries while educating and empowering their customers is their main goal. Tonight it’s Mahi-Mahi from Panama paired with a red curry coconut milk on Jasmine rice, and Napa cabbage, carrots, and a lime cilantro shipped in from a local farm in Mancos. “You create that unique sense of trust with the customer and then push them into new territory,” Crowl laughs. The house lights suddenly dim. Dinner is in full swing signaling to Chris it’s time to get back into his kitchen. It is clear that Allred and Crowl are invested in their restaurant and even joke that they have the dream to perhaps open another venue. For now, though, it’s about enjoying the hard work they’ve invested in the restaurant and their employees and spending time with their families. “You know for me it is all about not taking anything for granted. I mean, this is amazing,” Allred gestures with both hands outstretched to encompass the restaurant. “I come in here and can’t believe that this is our restaurant and you never want to become complacent. You can’t be like this is our “walk-off home run” and take it easy,” he smiles. WINTER 2015 | MAJESTIC LIVING | 35

Veteran Beverly Charlie honored to help those who serve our country Story by Margaret Cheasebro | Photos by Whitney Howle Beverly Charley is the new veterans’ services officer for the Farmington office of the New Mexico Department of Veterans’ Services. “I love working for veterans because that’s who I am and that’s what I’ve done in my life,” she said. She is a passionate advocate for veterans, but when she graduated from Farmington High School in 1990 she had no idea that would become her life’s work. She got in trouble hanging with the wrong crowd and drinking in high school. Once she graduated, she didn’t know what she should do. Whatever she chose, whether continuing her schooling or joining the military, she knew she wanted to get out of Farmington.

Something bigger out there “I was young and naïve,” Beverly said. “I wanted to get away from Farmington. It was small. I didn’t want to be here. There was something bigger out there. I just knew I had to go out and do it.” Several of her friends had joined to the military, so Beverly paid a visit to the Army recruiting officer. Her mother, Mary Charley, had no idea what she’d done until, shortly before Beverly joined, the recruiting officer knocked on her door to tell her about her daughter’s plans. “I think that was a good choice for her,” Mary said. “At the time, there were some kids roaming around here, and 36 | MAJESTIC LIVING | WINTER 2015

I didn’t want her to get involved with any of them. I thought if I can’t train her, maybe the Army can.”

Get away from Mom’s rules The second youngest of eight children, Beverly was anxious to get away from her mother’s rules. The military wasn’t exactly what she’d imagined. As soon as she stepped off the bus for basic training at Fort Jackson, South Carolina, the yelling began. “Doing these rules, getting yelled at, I left home for this?” she remembered thinking to herself. “I was not happy with my mom’s rules. Now I am here under strangers’ rules.” Trying to tough it out on her own, she didn’t call home. When her recruiter contacted her and convinced her to call her mom, she broke down on the phone when she heard Mary’s voice. Her mother encouraged her to stick it out, and she did. Mary sent her daughter care packages throughout Beverly’s military career and included extra items for people who didn’t get packages from home.

Now Mom is her best friend “Now that I’m grown up, I think if I could only rewind a few things in my life,” Beverly said. “My mom and I are best friends today.” During the 14 years Beverly was in the military, her mother worried about her safety. “Ever since she went in, I was on my knees praying that everything would work out for

her,” Mary said. “But I didn’t know I was praying for all the things she’s doing now. She really surprised me. I thank God the Army turned her life around.”

Works in a warehouse In the Army, Beverly trained to handle supplies and work in a warehouse. Her first duty station was in Giebelstadt, Germany. From there, she went to Mogadishu, Somalia, where she worked in a warehouse and learned to drive five-ton trucks and other vehicles. She was deployed to Haiti twice. When it came time for her to reenlist, she was given a choice about where to go. She chose Hawaii and called her mother all excited. But a few days later she called again, upset. She’d been told plans had changed and she was going to Korea. “Can you do anything about that?” she asked her mom. Mary had no idea what to do. She was a night attendant at Childhaven. She recently retired from that position after more than 30 years. Mary’s brother suggested she look in the newspaper to find legislators’ phone numbers. She followed his advice and called former Senator Pete Domenici. She told the woman who answered the phone what had happened, and the lady promised to let Domenici know about the situation. A day or two later Mary received a call from a lady in Gallup who told her she was Bill Richardson’s secretary. At the time, he was the governor of New Mexico. The lady said she would talk to Richardson and call Mary back the next day.

Goes to Hawaii Mary never got that call. Instead, Beverly called her all excited. She was going to Hawaii after all! “She told me, ‘I knew you had something to do with it,’” Mary recalled. After serving in Hawaii, Beverly was reassigned to Fort Bliss, Texas, where she was a passenger in a truck that jackknifed. She was thrown from the vehicle and suffered a head injury. She still doesn’t remember the WINTER 2015 | MAJESTIC LIVING | 37

accident, but she recovered. While at Fort Bliss, she began dating the man who fathered her daughter, Kiara. The relationship didn’t last. She was seven months pregnant when the Army granted her request to return to Germany, so she reenlisted. Her daughter was born in Amberg, Germany, on July 15, 2001. The Twin Towers fell two months later on September 11, and after that everyone was on high alert. “It was 100 percent guard duty around the clock,” Beverly said. “I got to see my daughter only when I came home to rest.”

Leaves daughter with Mom The best solution, Beverly decided, was to let her mother keep Kiara in New Mexico. When the military gave her permission to make a quick round trip flight to Albuquerque, Beverly left her baby with her family. It was the hardest thing she’s ever done. Shortly after Beverly returned to Germany, she was deployed to Iraq. “We were in huge sandstorms where you can’t see two feet in front of you,” she said. “It was hot. We had to be sure the soldiers drank water every 30 minutes.” At the end of 2002, Beverly finally came home to New Mexico for a visit and to reestablish ties with Kiara, whom she took back to Germany with her. One of her nieces came along as a live-in babysitter.

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In 2005, Beverly spent time in Fort Riley, Kansas, training to become an E-6. She faced another deployment to Iraq, and she knew she couldn’t take Kiara with her. She tried to put her mother on her family care plan so Kiara could stay with Mary, but the process took longer than she thought. She asked for more time to make arrangements for her daughter, but the military denied her request. “One lady said the chaplain could find a family for me in Kansas,” Beverly said. Her usually gentle eyes hardened at the memory. “That drew the line. I said, ‘You think I’m going to leave my daughter with some family I don’t even know?’” Instead, she resigned from the military. It was May 2005, and she hadn’t made plans about what she’d do when she got back to Farmington.

She thought she’d sleep in, take a long vacation and enjoy herself.

Unprepared for post-military life “I didn’t think of a job,” she said. “I didn’t think of dental, medical, apartment costs, groceries. In the military, all that was taken care of. When I was getting out, I had to go through these briefing sessions so I would know what I was doing. I was like, yeah, yeah, yeah, come on, because I want to go.” She had to worry about medical and dental care for her daughter. Rent for apartments was more than she could afford. For awhile, she lived with her sister in Bloomfield. When she got a job at the Motor Vehicle Department in Farmington, she moved to Farmington to share quarters with her mother in a mobile home. The MVD job opened up doors she didn’t expect, because there she met a veteran who told her about veterans’ benefits available to her if she would apply for them. Through his suggestions, she learned about the New Mexico Work-

force Connections, which encourages area businesses to hire veterans. She got a job there and worked at Workforce Connections for nine years .

Habitat for Humanity helps her During that time, a veteran’s representative for Presbyterian Medical Services told her

about Habitat for Humanity and urged her to apply for a Habitat house. So she did. “It took Habitat almost two years to build my home,” Beverly said. “I was helping them every Saturday. It was one of the values I learned. If someone is doing something for you, you’ve got to be there. It helped me

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appreciate my house a whole lot more.” She and Kiara moved into their new house in 2012. Now instead of keeping their clothes in two Tupperware containers at Mary’s house, sleeping in the living room and folding up their mattress every morning, they live in their own three-bedroom home. “With the grace of God and my family and friends, I’ve made it,” Beverly said.

Helps homeless veterans Though Beverly has never been homeless, she understands what it feels like not to have a place of your own. That’s one reason why she became involved with the San Juan County Homeless Stand Down. It gives homeless veterans a day to have some of their needs met, from medical care and haircuts to clothing and groceries. They also learn about services and opportunities available to them. David Drake, coordinator of San Juan College’s Veteran Center, has worked with Beverly over the last three years as part of the annual

Stand Down event. “Beverly is especially energetic and passionate about helping our veterans,” Drake said. “Not only is she dedicated, she also is proactive in coordinating with local agencies to provide the support and resources our veterans need.”

In April, she expanded her experience of helping veterans by becoming the veterans’ service officer for the Farmington office of the New Mexico Department of Veterans’ Services. It’s her goal to help veterans find the resources they need to make a smooth reentry into civilian life. She knows how hard that transition can be. When she left the military after 14 years, she hadn’t made plans for easing back into civilian life. “When I got out it was like hitting a brick wall,” she said.

Pool of contacts expands

County takes care of its own

Beverly is also involved with a female group of American Veterans, or AmVets, who network to meet the needs of fellow veterans. She’s a member of Women Veterans of New Mexico, and she joined the Veterans of Foreign Wars. Through the VFW she’s come in contact with veterans who either own companies or know people who do, and it’s increased her pool of contacts to help veterans find jobs.

Through the huge pool of contacts she’s gathered over the years, she’s often able to help veterans get the transitioning help they need. “San Juan County takes care of its own,” she said. “I’ve gone out there in outreach on behalf of veterans looking for work, and people have supported everything I’ve done from New Mexico Work Force to my job today.”

“San Juan County takes care of its own.” — Beverly Charley

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tAlent, imAginAtion Feat of Clay co-op helps artists get their foot in the art world’s door Story by Margaret Cheasebro | Photos by Whitney Howle Feat of Clay is a co-op of artists that accepts members who work in any kind of medium. For the last eight years it’s been at 107 S. Main Ave. in a high ceilinged building flooded with light. It had its start 15 years ago in a tiny sliver of a building on Main Avenue, and it’s been an active presence in the city’s life ever since. “Feat of Clay has been one of the businesses in Aztec that has stayed for quite a long time,” said member Jessica Polatty. “The visitors’ center promotes us constantly. A lot of people shop here because our prices are so much better than in Durango. We keep the commission very low.”

Great outlet for artists Artists pay a 15 percent commission to Feat of Clay and keep the rest. “It’s a great outlet for artists,” Jessica said. She is a potter and photographer when she’s not running the Bloomfield Senior Center. She also teaches pottery there and at San Juan College in the Encore program for senior citizens. Feat of Clay is open from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Wednesdays through Saturdays. There are also receptions for featured artists

on the fourth Friday evening of every month. “The reception is supposed to go from 5 to 7 p.m.,” said co-op member Fiona Clark, “but people don’t leave until eight. They come and stay around and really enjoy it.”

It’s all about community Members bring food, and volunteer musicians provide music. “It’s not about making money. It’s about the community coming together,” Fiona said. “Whoever applies, we jury their work. We’re open to any form of artists.” Perhaps their most frequent musician volunteer is Charles Stacey. “He comes in and puts down his tip jar and his CDs,” Jessica said. “He sold five CDs at the last show.” Fiona added, “If other musicians approach us, they are more than welcome.”

ties, and a garden show. “It doesn’t matter whether you’re a jeweler, a sculptor, metal worker or writer as long as you stick to the theme,” said Fiona. “I love those shows. I like the independent artists.” Fiona puts the evening shows together and spends time decorating the store. She also works several three-and-a-half-hour shifts during the week. Those shifts lower her portion of the monthly fee, which covers the cost of rent, utilities, insurance and staples such as toilet paper. Tourists stop at the gallery on their way between Albuquerque and Durango, or they drop by after eating at one of the restaurants across the street. When they’re not serving customers or rearranging shelves after an item sells, members take care of janitorial duties and work on their own art.

Special shows through the year There are also special shows throughout the year. They include Hearts of Art, a recycling show, a show to promote art in various communi-

Keep prices low “We always get the comment, ‘You are so inexpensive here,’” Fiona said. “That’s because we

want local people to buy local.” Their plan to keep prices low has served the co-op well. Bonnie Adams, who came up with the idea for the co-op in 2000, said, “Feat of Clay has floated on top of any economic situation that the country has been in. There’s always this transition of artists and styles, so it’s almost immune from the nation’s economic situation because it’s flexible and has been able to survive and do well. It’s almost like it breathes.” It was that need to breathe well, to join with other artists and to flourish that led Bonnie, not long after she moved to Aztec from back East in 2000, to suggest the idea of a co-op.

Co-op starts in tiny space “I had always enjoyed clay,” said Bonnie, who in 2000 worked as a nurse at San Juan Regional Medical Center. “I was basically teaching myself from a book. Then I got involved with the college’s wonderful clay program. One day I drove past this little tiny space in a building at the WINTER 2015 | MAJESTIC LIVING | 43

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corner of Main and Chuska in Aztec. I knew all these interesting people doing clay, and I thought wouldn’t it be cool to have a place where we could make art affordable for the community and give a venue for newer artists to have an affordable place for their work.” When she suggested it to fellow potters at a meeting in an Aztec home on Pioneer Avenue, they loved it. Together they came up with the name Feat of Clay. They rented the 20-foot by 5-foot space that included lots of shelves and a curtained bathroom – which members had to back into because the space was so confined. The building had no heat, so in the winter members sometimes ran across the street to a bookstore, got a cup of coffee and watched through the bookstore window until customers arrived at the gallery.

Co-op grows “If you had two people come in to shop, you walked out of the store to give them room,” said member Toni Trosky, a potter who has branched into jewelry. “We had a tiny table with a chair and a cash box, which we still use.” In spite of the small quarters, they began to grow. In 2002, they moved to a larger store at 108 S. Main Ave., then owned by Ruby Pettijohn of Farmington, who at the time lived two miles north of Aztec. The building had once housed a cabinet shop. With the bigger space, they decided to expand their membership to artists in many media. “That was a really good turning point for Feat

of Clay when we opened up to a lot more forms of art,” Jessica said. “Anything. The sky was the limit.” Bonnie stayed with Feat of Clay until 2002 when she became a manager at the hospital and her life grew too complicated. “I may have birthed the baby, but Jessica raised the child,” Bonnie said of the way Feat of Clay has matured.

Spots perfect gallery While they were at 108 S. Main Ave., Jessica kept her eye on a vacant building across the street at 107 S. Main Ave. “I thought it would make a perfect gallery,” she said. “Tall stamped metal ceilings, huge windows, lots of light.” When she and Fiona approached the Rebeccas, who owned the building, the owners were gracious. “They said, ‘What kind of floors do you want? We’re redoing the whole building,’” Jessica recalled. “We said, ‘White paint, Pergo floors.’ So they did the whole thing for us, knowing we were going to move in. We’ve been here for eight years. I don’t ever want to leave.” Fiona joined the group in 2001 and has been with Feat of Clay ever since. Originally from Australia, she and her husband have no family here, so fellow artists at Feat of Clay have become her second family. She loves putting together the artists’ receptions.

Eight-week show beginning November 20 Right now Feat of Clay is featuring eight artists during an eight-week show from November 20 until after the New Year. They are showing work that ranges from pottery and jewelry to mixed media and books. “They have an opportunity to show their work somewhere instead of it being in their cupboard or in their studio,” said Fiona. “We’ve set up space so they can have a gallery experience.” It’s especially gratifying when someone buys a piece made by a co-op member who happens to be working a shift at the gallery.

Members share their methods “I had a lady come in when I was here, and she bought a cup,” Toni said. “It happened to be my cup, so I could talk to her about it. She wanted to know the process I used. She was from out east. She said she usually buys a mug in every town she visits. She said our gallery

was very attractive.” On another day, a lady who lives in Nevada and is originally from Germany stopped by when Toni worked a shift. “Whenever she makes a trip to Albuquerque, she always tries to stop at Feat of Clay,” Toni said. Co-op members work with other galleries and businesses in Aztec to promote shopping in the municipality. “For a small town like Aztec, you have to have more than just Feat of Clay as a reason to

come here if you’re coming from Farmington or somewhere else,” said Jessica. “We’re just one leg. That’s why we welcome anybody who comes in and does anything retail-wise or artwise. We hope we will market doing cross-promotional things.”

Co-op has committees Jessica is on the co-op’s marketing committee. There are also jury, maintenance, education, and design committees. The co-op is

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overseen by a five-member board of which Fiona is president. The board is a simpler way to make month-to-month decisions than trying to get 1215 members together at a time, Jessica explained. “We encourage all the members to be part of the different committees that we have,” she said. “It helps get them more involved.” New co-op member Brittane Thompson of Aztec was impressed with how quickly and attractively the gallery displayed her art work. She came into the gallery one day asking about becoming a member of the co-op, and a few days later her work hung on a gallery wall. “I make angels,” she said, “Some are adhered to a cross that’s decoratively in harmony with the color of the angels’ costumes. I use the Celtic cross, which predates Christianity by 300 years, because it symbolizes the unity of heaven and earth. When I make them, I feel like I’m contributing something to peace.”

Artists get their foot in the door Co-op members see the gallery as a way to help artists like Brittane get their foot in the door of the art world. “I call it my labor of love,” Jessica said, “because it’s the place where we started, and we all have this really great opportunity to display local art work.”

WINTER 2015 | MAJESTIC LIVING | 47

48 | MAJESTIC LIVING | WINTER 2015

A passion for golf and her kind volunteer spirit keeps Jane Banes’ calendar full Story by Dorothy Nobis | Photos by Whitney Howle The Dick and Jane books that were popular in the 1930s-1970s showed siblings having fun and helped teach children how to read. Later in the 1970s – 1979, to be exact – Dick and Jane bought Bob and Bill’s Trading Post, just north of the New Mexico state line in Colorado, and new chapters of the now-married Dick and Jane began. The 1930s Dick and Jane were siblings – the 1979 Dick and Jane met each other at a party in 1970 and their own story began. Dick was the older man at the party, Jane remembered, and the connection between them was immediate. “He had a motorcycle, he was seven years older, and he was very exciting,” Jane Banes said, adding that they married in 1971. In 1979, the dashing Dick and the petite and blonde Jane were looking for an opportunity when the Bob and Bill Trading Post went up for sale. “We decided that’s what we wanted to do – and to make it or break it,” Banes said. The store was a convenience store when the Banes purchased it, but became more than that

as the months and years went by. We added groceries and 3.2 beer and expanded into souvenirs,” Banes said. “We sold

lottery tickets and Carhart work clothes – and we worked real hard.” Customers became friends, Banes said. “We had loyal customers and we tried to treat them

fairly,” she added. “We wanted their business, not just their money.” Holidays were celebrated, with Halloween being a favorite one. “We’d let the kids pick out whatever they wanted from our very long counter of choices,” Banes said with smile. “We didn’t have children of our own, so we thought of the kids as ours.” Many of those kids – who now have kids of their own – still stay in touch, Banes said. The Banes worked from 6 a.m. to 9 p.m. seven days a week. “In 15 years, we only had two weeks that we didn’t work,” Banes said. “We had young people who helped us, but we were always there early and late.” In 1994, the Banes sold the store, and they moved to Dutchman’s Hill, north of Aztec. “Dick had a tractor with a backhoe and he worked on small jobs and with several contractors,” Banes said. “Dick loved his tractor and being on it, moving dirt and digging holes.” Dick and Jane tried fly fishing trips once they sold the store. “But the places we fished in our lives before the store had changed,” Banes said. “Dick suggested golf, as he had played in college. When we took up the sport, I was hooked.” WINTER 2015 | MAJESTIC LIVING | 49

Tom Yost, the executive director of First Tee, met Dick and Jane when he was the head golf professional at Riverview Golf Course in Kirtland in 2001. “They were members at the golf course and played at least three or four times per week. Jane was heavily involved with the Ladies Golf Association at Riverview,” Yost said. “My staff and I loved to see Jane as she was always bringing cookies, food or trinkets for my staff. And she was always so cheery, whether she was going to compliment you or if she had a concern.” “She and Dick were a perfect couple, as she complemented his gruff, sarcastic comments beautifully,” Yost added. Banes enjoyed substitute teaching for Aztec schools for 12 years, but when her mother became ill, she put her energies and love in caring for her. And, over the years, Dick’s health began to suffer. In July of this year, Dick passed away, after 44 ½ years of marriage to his Jane. Dick’s family was also Jane’s family, and they were there to support her. In addition, Jane has friends who help keep her busy. “It’s been tough,” Banes said of the months since Dick died. “I couldn’t have made it without my support group of friends and family. They keep me active and they call and text,” Banes said. “I’m a strong person, but I still have moments, especially in the evenings. Dick was sick for some time and I’m glad he encouraged me to get out and do things.” And Jane does things. She’s on the board of directors of First Tee of San Juan County, serves on the Farmington Parks and Recreation Commission, is a volunteer with the San Juan Medical Foundation and is an ambassador for the foundation’s Get Pinked festivities each October. Most days, however, find Banes on the golf course. She belongs to the Four Corners Ladies Golf Team and enjoys playing golf with her friends any time she can. Deb Cutler got to know Banes while serving on the Farmington Parks and Recreation Commission. “Jane is kind and outgoing,” Cutler said. “She follows through with her commitments and can be relied on to get a job done.” 50 | MAJESTIC LIVING | WINTER 2015

“She has a very caring side to her, helping those in most need,” Cutler added. “She is moving through the grief of the loss of her husband with grace. I believe this is due to her faith. And last, but not least, she always wears a smile. Always!” Being on the Parks and Recreation Commission has given Banes the opportunity to help direct Piñon Hills Golf Course – where she spends much of her time. She also spends time volunteering as a member of the First Tee Board. “Jane is a go-getter,” said Tom Yost,” and is a true asset, as she is to any and all organizations she’s involved with. She’s not afraid to fundraise and ask for donations. She comes to meetings prepared and speaks her mind on topics that she is versed on and is passionate about.” “I play golf three times a week,” Banes said with a laugh. “Golf is my passion. It’s me against the golf course. I always play with friends and we always try to conquer the golf course.” While Riverview and Piñon Hills are her regular courses to play, the ladies golf team plays Du-

rango, Pagosa, Cortez, Dalton Ranch, the San Juan Country Club, in addition to Riverview and Piñon Hills. Next year, the group plans to include a course in Monticello, Utah, in the mix. This summer, Banes made her first road trip by herself. “I went to see Dick’s sister in Lakewood, Colorado, and I stopped in Pueblo (Colorado) to see a friend, and I visited friends in Colorado Springs,” she said. “It was the first time I’d been in control of a trip and if I wanted to stop (along

the way), I did. I really enjoyed it.” “I was gone seven days,” she added. “The biggest challenge I had was making sure I got on the right road – and to keep my foot off the gas pedal!” Banes hopes to continue to travel. “I have friends in Texas and Tennessee and I plan to see them soon, if the weather cooperates. I want to get out and be a little more adventurous.” While Dick helped prepare her for life

WINTER 2015 | MAJESTIC LIVING | 51

without him, Banes admits it still isn’t easy. “We talked about finances and we talked about a lot of things,” she said. “But there were things we didn’t think about. I still haven’t learned how to turn on the television that’s in the living room. Dick had lots of remote controls and they’re all different. So I just watch the television in the bedroom.” Banes still lives in the home in Farmington they purchased several years ago and has no plans to move. At Dick’s funeral, Banes said she was touched by the outpouring of love for her husband and for her. “That’s the beauty of living in a small town,” she said, adding that people care about each other and reach out to help in times of need. Tyra van Belle said having a friend like Jane is “almost too good to be true when it comes to describing a friend.” “I, like everyone else, had known who Dick and Jane were simply because of the notoriety of Dick and Jane’s Place,” van Belle said. “We became casual friends through golf; however became very good friends about 10 years ago.

52 | MAJESTIC LIVING | WINTER 2015

“Golf is my passion. It’s me against the golf course.” — Jane Banes During that time, my late husband and I were going through some difficult times. Dick and Jane spent a lot of time with us in Arizona, hanging out, playing golf – and they even bought a park model near ours. Needless to say, we spent a lot of time together.” “When someone is as thoughtful and giving of themselves as Jane is, it’s hard to feel as though you can measure up when they’re in a time of need, as Jane has been for a number of years,” van Belle added. “Dick was a pretty sick guy a lot longer than everyone really knew or that Jane would let on. She is always the first to offer, but the last to ask for help – even to appear as if she needs help.” “Jane is a very strong woman and she will be

fine,” van Belle said of her friend. “She will always love and cherish Dick and move on through life as he would have her do. It is not her makeup to sit around and feel sorry for herself. She has her moments and always will, but has too much to give to withdraw from everyone and will (always give) her vibrancy and love to others.” Barbara Karnes met Banes in high school. “She joined my friends and me for the daily half-hour walk to the school,” Karnes shared. “Her quick laugh and wicked sense of humor meant that she fit in everywhere she went. Jane has always been a ‘people person,’ finding everyone she meets interesting and fun to talk to.” When Banes was caring for her mother, Karnes said Banes filled her down time tracking down classmates for a Del Norte (Colorado) High School reunion. “Not only did she develop some first rate detective skills, but she also managed to convince several of those she found to attend the reunion – many for the first time,” Karnes said. “Jane is a very good listener and she has a way of drawing people out,” Karnes added. “She truly cares and is thrilled when she hears of classmates finding each other again or forming new friendships after all these years.” Surrounded by friends and family, Banes said life has been easier than she had expected. And she has advice for others who lose a spouse. “Stay strong and stay active,” she said. “Don’t turn down any invitations. People invite you out of kindness and it’s good to get out and see people.” Tom Yost said Banes is more than a dedicated volunteer. “I consider Jane a very good friend – but even more than that, Jane is like another mother to all that she comes into contact with,” Yost said. “She and Dick weren’t able to have children, but the entire community that she impacts on a daily basis are her children. And we love her to death.” Life is different for one of the stars of this Dick and Jane book. Jane is now the first one to offer support and help for others going through what she has since Dick passed away. And while life isn’t the same without her life partner, she cherishes the memories that have made her chapters of Dick and Jane happy and full of love.

relief Dan Rooney helps people rebuild after tragedy strikes Story by Debra Mayeux | Photos by Josh Bishop Imagine standing on the roof of an earthquake-damaged department store building in Van Nuys, California, covered in roof tar, when the president of Robinson’s May Company walks up to you and offers you a six-figure check to help your local high school. If you can imagine this, you have an idea of what it was like to be Dan Rooney, of Aztec, in 1994. Rooney traveled from Arizona to California on January 17, 1994, after receiving an early morning phone call about a catastrophic earthquake in Northridge, California. Robinson’s May Company wanted his company, Cat-5 Restoration and Construction to repair their buildings. He gathered his fivemember construction team and 35 high school students to go and help. “When we arrived at LAX, the airport was just closing. It took us 11 hours to go 11 miles,” Rooney said. His destination was a 400,000-squarefoot store in Santa Monica, California. The 54 | MAJESTIC LIVING | WINTER 2015

basement had 13-foot ceilings with 16 feet of water in it. “It’s amazing the dynamics of earthquakes and what they do to buildings,” Rooney said. May Company had 22 Southern California stores damaged by the earthquake, and

Rooney was one of three contractors hired to repair them. He was assigned six stores, and all but his six ended up condemned. The Van Nuys store become a sort of clearing house for damaged merchandise, which, along with supplies, was distributed

among the people and families displaced by the tragedy. “They turned over inventory 11 times from the Friday until the Monday,” after the quake, Rooney said. The students he took with him were honest, hard-working kids, and they were rewarded with the check. This, however, was not Rooney’s only brush with the catastrophic aftermath of Mother Nature’s wrath. “I’ve been to I don’t know how many catastrophic events,” Rooney said. He has done jobs in Guam, Argentina, Mexico, Canada and “in all four geographic corners of the U.S., and in the foreign country of Manhattan,” he said. Rooney’s wife, Judy, said that she supports him in his work. “The main thing is it’s always exciting for him and it’s something he truly loves,” she said. “He’s also out there making a difference in people’s lives.” Judy said her husband’s work brings him great joy, so much so that he would drop planned vacations to help assist those in need. Rooney was on his way to Alaska for a men’s outdoor wilderness adventure when Hurricane Katrina hit New Orleans. “You can’t plan this stuff,” Rooney said. He left his friends and gathered 265 students and construction workers to go and help. Rooney’s was one of the first teams in New Orleans. “Louisiana was a mess,” he said. He pulled off something of a miracle. “We set up our own camps. We had 65 generators, and I can’t tell you how we pulled it off – we never ran out of fuel,” Rooney said. The entire time, he and the students worked to help the people rebuild. WINTER 2015 | MAJESTIC LIVING | 55

And when it was no longer safe or feasible to be in Louisiana, they moved into Texas. When disaster strikes, “there’s the same pattern,” Rooney explained. “The first three days people are working together. By day four, the looting and rioting starts.”

The bad actors are “imports,” or people who don’t live in the communities. They come in to take advantage of the situation. Rooney has experienced it, and said “good always prevails.” Once in Texas, the team worked at the Beaumont, Texas, mall. The teenagers worked

hard and got the job done, while still being honest. Rooney recalled the authorities coming in to check all of the contractor camps. Several had stolen items from the wrecked building, but in his group of 100 high school students nothing was stolen. It was one of his proudest moments.

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“I’ve been to I don’t know how many catastrophic events in all four geographic corners of the U.S., and in the foreign country of Manhattan.” — Dan Rooney So how does someone become an expert in repairing buildings damaged by catastrophes? For Rooney it was being in the right place at the right time and placing his trust and faith in God. His restoration and repair business began in 1982, in Mesa, Arizona, when his insurance broker neighbor asked him to repair fences damaged by a monsoon. Then he was asked to fix a carport. “I was building homes and remodeling homes,” Rooney said. However, he decided to look into doing repairs for insurance companies. “My business went from 80 percent building and remodels to 80 percent insurance repair work.” He made a practice of providing the customer with something better than what they had to begin with, and his reputation grew. Rooney was known as a fixer – somebody, who would come in and get the job done right the first time. “When we walk on the site, we can see the finished product and it’s a better product than when the incident happened,” he said.

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Cat-5 has obtained 32 North American Industry Classification System certifications in the construction industry, and Rooney is a federal government certified contractor. Rooney proved this to the Mesa Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints in 1990, when the building was firebombed. The stake president called him out to fix the building, and Rooney had it completed in 103 days on budget. This led to more work for the LDS Church, with Rooney getting jobs all over the country repairing church facilities. “We have never not performed,” he said. “We have never not delivered a building that wasn’t on time or on budget.” Cat-5 has obtained 32 North American Industry Classification System certifications in the construction industry, and Rooney is a federal government certified contractor. He moved the company to Aztec in January of this year, because he always liked this area. Rooney used to travel through Aztec and Farmington with his family. His father moved horses through the region. “I wanted a change of pace. It was time to cool down and slow down,” he said. “It was difficult to leave children and family behind,” Judy said of the move. “We were ready for a new experience, and Dan’s always wanted to live and work in a small town. We are enjoying the small town experience.” Judy added that she enjoys working in the business. “It’s always awesome when you’re working with your husband, and you’re trying to build something together,” she said. “I can say, ‘I love my boss.’” Now Cat-5 is offering world-class restoration and repair services to homeowners and businesses in the Four Corners region, and Rooney brings a wealth of knowledge, machines and contracting skills with him. Cat-5 is located at 1710 W. Aztec Blvd. in Aztec. For more information, call 505.334.4944.

All about family After 26 years Linda McNeal closes DeNae’s Boutique to spend more time with her family Photos by Margaret Cheasebro | Photos by Josh Bishop After 26 years, Linda McNeal is closing DeNae’s Boutique in San Juan Plaza. Her 92year-old father, Bill Smart, needs a little extra help from his family, and Linda wants time to give him that attention. “He’s very lonesome right now even though he does a lot of church activities,” Linda said. “I want to have enough time for him so that he knows he’s loved, because he’s always made us feel very loved.” Linda has a sister, Monica Calder, an English teacher at Farmington High School, and a brother, Bill Smart Jr., who is a contractor for ConocoPhillips. They all plan to spend extra time with their dad.

“I’m not just the owner. I’m a working owner,” she said. “That means a lot of times I’m down here six or seven days a week. When you own your own business, you’re the bookkeeper, you’re the marketing person, the advertising and sales person, the janitor. You’re whatever it takes to keep the business open.” When her mother, Polly Smart, developed Alzheimer’s her father took care of her for several years until she died nine years ago. “He took care of her all that time,” she said. “Now I will be there for him. He was such a good father and husband that he deserves to have some quality time with his kids.”

Items sell quickly DeNae’s kept her busy Linda struggled to find time for her dad when she owned DeNae’s. By the time she left the store most nights, he was on his way to bed. 60 | MAJESTIC LIVING | WINTER 2015

At first, Linda planned to close the store by the end of November, but everything started selling so quickly at 50 percent off that she decided to close by the first weekend in November.

Not only does she plan to spend more time with her dad, but she also wants to go places and do things with her husband, Pete McNeal, who owns PLC Consulting, an oil and gas related business. “My husband and I are getting to the age where we want to start doing some things together,” she said. “We better do it while we’re still able to do it. If he decides that he’s got time off, we can go do something. We have not ever been able to do that, so it’s time.”

Longtime Farmingtonian Though Linda was born in Haskell, Texas, in 1954, she moved to Farmington when she was 6 or 7 years old and has lived here ever since. “Linda has been a wonderful part of this community for a huge part of her life,” said Gayle Dean, executive director of the San Juan College Foundation. “DeNae’s has been an

important part of our lives for 26 years. Although I am very sorry to see DeNae’s close, I know that Linda will continue to make this a better community in countless other ways.”

Didn’t plan a fashion career When Linda opened her store, she hadn’t planned to get into the fashion trade. She worked at a bank for 17 ½ years, first as a teller, then as an assistant vice president, but she always loved fashion. One year in the 1980s The New Mexico Business Journal voted her one of the 10 best dressed women in New Mexico. She grew to love fashion because she adored her mother, who once owned a Durango store called Pants and Things. “I always wanted to be like her and have my own store someday,” Linda said. Polly encouraged her to take a chance and open a boutique, so in 1989, Linda opened DeNae’s in San Juan Plaza. She named it DeNae’s because that’s her daughter’s middle name and because it sounds like the Navajo word, Diné, which means people. “You’ve got to have people to be successful,” she said.

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About four years after Linda opened the store, Polly came to work for her a couple of days a week, mostly on weekends so Linda could spend time with her family. The arrangement continued for 10 years until Polly got too sick to work. Her advice continues to guide Linda. “She told me, ‘Do not ever be pushy. Your customer has to feel good in what they have on. If they don’t feel good, they’re not going to wear it, and they’re not going to come back. If they have something they really enjoy wearing, they’re going to come back,’” Linda recalled. She has taken that to heart. “My goal is my customer,” she said, “because if my customer keeps coming back, I know that I must be doing something right.”

Misses her loyal customers She will miss all of her customers and especially values the loyalty her American Indian 62 | MAJESTIC LIVING | WINTER 2015

patrons have shown her. “They have come in and cried that I’m closing,” she said. “They know what I’m doing it for, and they’re happy for that reason because they’re very family oriented.” “I hate to see her go,” said Evelyn Benny, who is on the San Juan College board. She often shopped at DeNae’s with her sister, Pauline Platero. “She’s a very nice lady. She treated us like sisters. She was very inviting. I bought a lot of clothes from there. The clothes quality was super. When we had a meeting, graduation or party to go to, we would go to her store, and she would dress us up. We are Christians, so we used to pray for each other. We had a spiritual connection with her.” Over the years, Linda has worked with many fashion companies. One of them, Piccadilly, a Canada company, surprised her. The owner of Piccadilly called her to say how much he appreciated her business over the years and how much the company would miss her. “This was the president of a big company in Canada!” she exclaimed. “It made me feel so good.”

Trend tilts toward casual The trend is tilting toward more casual wear. “It’s not dressy anymore,” she said. “Even to a nice function people wear pants. They dress it up with a scarf or necklace or other jewelry. Especially in Farmington it’s more casual, but I have noticed even in bigger cities when I go to market and I go out to different places, they’re not dressing up like

they used to. Casual is a lot more acceptable now.” She has always carried a lot of jeans in her store, because, she said, “Farmington is a definite jeans town.” Though Paris used to be the fashion center of the world, now fashion is mostly coming out of Canada, she said, and it’s leaning toward what Farmington likes.

What goes around comes back around She readily spots clothing carried by the companies she’s bought from over the years. Those years have given her a good sense of fashion trends. “It’s like a clock. What goes around comes back around,” she said. “Back in the 1980s there were a lot of bell bottoms, real tight fitting, then the flair legs. They’re on their way back.” But they’re coming back with a slight difference. They used to be low cut, but the comeback style isn’t cut low. It’s tight at the top and the legs flair out. She had some on order, but she cancelled the order when she decided to close the store. “My dad comes before that,” she said. Bell bottoms are coming back, not only in Farmington but all over the country. “I used to say Farmington was a year or two behind what the trends were,” she said. “We’re only about six months behind now.” WINTER 2015 | MAJESTIC LIVING | 63

Election year trend A trend that hasn’t changed much over the years is how people buy clothes during an election year. “My mom always said make sure that you go lightly on inventory on election year because you have so many people who are unsure until they know who’s going to be the next president,” Linda said. “They’re a little more cautious with their money. What sells is not brighter colors. It’s black, navy blue and red. Every election year I’ve followed my mother’s advice, and I’m glad I did.” Her mother also told her to carry a lot of accessories, which she has done with success. “Someone can walk in with something and you can dress it up,” said Linda. “You can put a scarf, a belt, jewelry or a hat with it.” Though she still has belts with bling left, they’re going fast. “Farmington is bling,” she said. “I’ve had really good luck with belts with bling. The bling doesn’t fall off. I try to buy from good companies.”

Family a part of DeNae’s Over the years, DeNae’s has been a family business. Her daughter, Carra DeNae Randall, decorates the store windows when she’s not teaching first grade at Ladera Elementary School, and Linda’s husband changes lights and does remodeling as needed. Her dad helped out when he was younger. Carra was in middle school when her mother opened the store, and she spent time at the 64 | MAJESTIC LIVING | WINTER 2015

boutique. When Carra had children, Linda babysat her two grandkids, now 10 and 12, in the store before they were old enough to attend school. “They played on the old cash register, or they counted money,” Linda said. “Then can count money like some of these older kids can’t because they have been around their grandmother all these years. To this day, when they are sick and they have to stay home, a lot of times they’ll come down here with me and sit in the back dressing room or lay down and sleep.”

Doing the right thing Linda will miss that store’s family connection, but she knows she’s doing the right thing by closing DeNae’s. When she ran the boutique, she often didn’t have time for lunch. Now she’ll have time to eat lunch with friends. “I’ve already had friends say, ‘Bring your dad!’ I say, ‘That’s what I’ll do. He’ll love it.’” Joyce Brown of Kirtland has shopped at DeNae’s ever since it was in a smaller building across the breezeway. “I sure will miss that store, but she knows what’s best for herself,” said Joyce. “She had good fashions there, exquisite clothing. I used to come in just to visit with her. She’s a very friendly lady.” It wasn’t easy for Linda to walk away from 26 years in the fashion business, but she feels at peace with her decision. “If we’ll listen to our heart and follow it,” she said, “it will lead us the right way.”

MIDWIFE CARE WORKS IN ALL SETTINGS Nichelle Salazar dedicated to bringing new birthing options to all cultures Story by Debra Mayeux | Photos by Josh Bishop Nichelle Salazar embarked on a journey of culture, spirituality and new life when, in 2012, she decided to become a midwife. Salazar, in 2008, had completed her bachelor’s degree at Washington, D.C.’s Georgetown University. College wasn’t easy for the Navajo Preparatory School graduate, who had received several scholarships to attend the prestigious Catholic college. “My first semester I struggled academically. I 66 | MAJESTIC LIVING | WINTER 2015

had to decide if this was something I wanted to do,” said Salazar, who was a nursing major. Looking for opportunities for “students of color,” Salazar joined a mentoring program, learned to manage her time and studied and worked hard. She earned her degree and headed home to Dulce, where she was raised, a member of the Jicarilla Apache tribe. Salazar was a practicing nurse at the age of 26, when she decided it was time to study

medicine. She entered the University of New Mexico and two years later, “midwifery found me,” she said. There were several factors leading her to the career choice, but most importantly midwifery gave Salazar a life goal to search for, find and implement the lost birthing traditions of the Jicarilla. “My ultimate goal is to bring birth back to my community,” she said.

“I had no idea what modern midwifery was. I always viewed it as homebirth for fortunate families.” — Nichelle Salazar Salazar, now 29, is the first Jicarilla Apache midwife. She works for San Juan Health Partners at San Juan Regional Medical Center, and she also is a member of the Midwives of Color, an organization dedicated to keeping women of color safe throughout their pregnancy and the birth of their children by providing them with options for care. There are 14 certified American Indian midwives in the United States. “We birth workers know that racial and class disparities are killing our babies and harming our mothers; we know the solution lies in quality midwifery care and we firmly believe in a midwife for every woman who wants one,” said Jennie Joseph, a member of Midwives of Color, and outspoken midwife from Florida. “Until 68 | MAJESTIC LIVING | WINTER 2015

women and their loved ones feel that they have enough knowledge and agency to be part of the decisions around their care, and until they have access to education and support that they are lacking, they will continue to be at risk.” Salazar wants to wage this battle for her own people, while providing midwife services to all women who desire it. She joined San Juan Health Partners in April, and the practice was thrilled to have her. Hiring Salazar was the perfect fit, according to Anne Miller, another midwife at San Juan Health Partners. Miller oversaw Salazar’s residency at San Juan Regional Medical Center, where the student had 35 births in eight weeks.

“She is a natural midwife,” Miller said. “Nichelle had become very experienced as a nurse. … She had a depth of understanding of women and childbirth.” Prior to attending the University of New Mexico, Salazar was not familiar with midwifery. “I had no idea what modern midwifery was. I always viewed it as home birth for fortunate families,” Salazar said. Her education showed her that was a myth. “It wasn’t home birth. It was more hospital birth, birthing centers birth.” While 95 percent of midwives work in hospital settings, it is all about the care women receive and their own personal choices for childbirth. With a midwife, women receive “labor support until delivery,” Salazar said. Doctors, however, are on standby in case of an emergency. Midwives are the birth partners giving women options, according to Salazar. They offer women birth positions, including standing, being on their hands and knees, squatting or being in the Jacuzzi tub. “She can do whatever she wants,” Salazar said. Women can even have epidural pain medications with a midwife. “Birth isn’t just about a baby, but making a mom,” Salazar said. Midwives teach baby care and breastfeeding, which is Salazar’s favorite. “I breastfed my two daughters, and it gave me so much time to bond with them. It affects the health of families. “If we have more moms breastfeeding, it will help the healthcare system and create healthier families.” Midwifery also covers all aspects of female care from annual exams and birth control to pregnancy safety, family planning and women’s health concerns. Women’s health has been a focus of Salazar’s and she set her sights on giving her people options for care, because it will help her culture survive. Salazar quoted American Indian midwife, Katsi Cook, who said. “Your culture survives as long as your birth practices.” Salazar’s journey has included speaking to Jicarilla elders about traditional birth practices. “I’m still on a hunt,” she said. What she knows WINTER 2015 | MAJESTIC LIVING | 69

is women were with other women when babies were born, and men were outside. “They were not allowed in the room. They were to be on the lookout and protect.” Salazar was raised Catholic, but her family also embraced the Jicarilla culture and traditions. “I do my prayer with corn pollen,” she said. “We participated in a lot of events in Dulce.” Her favorite event is the Go-jii-ya, or foot races to determine the season, “whether it’s going to be a good hunting season or growing season.” She also came across a few birth songs, but other than that the knowledge is limited. While the knowledge may not be readily available to Salazar, the midwives at San Juan Health Partners believe she brings a wealth of experience to their practice. “From our perspective she is giving us a whole different angle on how to serve women in this community better and deeper. … She has added a cultural sensitivity to the practice,” Miller said. “She is

super smart and is bringing that missing aspect of Native American culture to our practice.” And Salazar said her interest is focused on the Jicarilla, because there are other Indigenous midwives, including two Navajo, in the

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area, who are working to preserve their birth culture. Nicolle Gonzales is one of these women who made a film through UNM about American Indian midwives. “One of my biggest challenges as an emerging nurse-midwife is to maintain a sacred space for these cultural beliefs in a hospital setting. On my journey to becoming a midwife I was amazed at the lack of Native American women in my profession,” Gonzales said. If Salazar has anything to do with it, that trend will change. She has been outspoken about educational opportunities for indigenous women, and she is keen on recruiting them to work in the midwifery profession. Salazar has even trained her young daughter to enter the profession. Addyson, 7, studied with Salazar while she went to UNM, and the youngster has made her first “catch,” according to her mom. “Addyson got to deliver her baby sister Yessenia. She got to catch her,” Salazar said, proudly sharing the photograph of the birth. “Addyson wants to be a midwife.” Salazar’s husband Justin also has been supportive of her midwifery career. “He loves it,” she said. Together the Salazar family embarked on this journey that will bring new life to their culture by bringing healthy babies into the world.

Labor of love

Shawn and Jenny a big part of the Special Olympics family Story by Dorothy Nobis | Photos by Whitney Howle

When Shawn Archuleta and Jenny Dennis decided to have careers in law enforcement, they were ready and willing to help others. Neither of them, however, had any idea of how much they would help others and how gratifying it would be. Archuleta and Dennis started working together in 1999. Archuleta was Dennis’ training officer as a Community Service Officer. While Archuleta enjoyed her work as a CSO, 72 | MAJESTIC LIVING | WINTER 2015

Dennis looked at the training as a stepping stone to becoming a certified police officer. “She had to do what I was doing,” Archuleta said of Dennis’ training. And what Archuleta was doing would change the lives of both of them. “A young Sgt. Kyle Westall (who would ultimately become Farmington’s Police Chief) was in charge of the Torch Run for the Farmington Police Department,” said Debra Lisen-

bee, area director for Special Olympics. “He introduced us (Special Olympics) to Jenny and Shawn as his “go to” people for these activities.”

Torch Run The Law Enforcement Torch Run is the largest grass-roots fundraiser and public awareness for Special Olympics, according to the Special Olympics website, which also

states that the Law Enforcement Torch Run® has more than 97,000 volunteers from 46 countries and has raised more than $461 million for the Special Olympics movement. While Archuleta and Dennis began volunteering for the Torch Run, the two weren’t satisfied with doing just one event to help Special Olympics. They also help with Tip a Cop at Chili’s Restaurant, where police officers, firefighters, members of the National Guard and animal control officers become restaurant servers and all of the tips they receive go to Special Olympics. They also help with the Polar Plunge, the Guns and Hoses Tournament, the New Mexico Special Olympics events, and are frequent partners with Special Olympians at golf and softball games and at bowling events.

Big hearts and smiles are addictive While some of what the two do is done as part of their Community Service Officer positions, much more of it is done on their personal time and for personal reasons. “I love it,” Dennis said of Special Olympics. “These kids want to be loved and in return (for that love) you get so much back. In a job where everybody hates cops, we’re heroes to these guys.” “There’s innocence about them,” Dennis added. “They’re mesmerized with things in

life. They don’t get upset with things – they look at things a lot differently than we do.” “They’re hearts are purer,” Archuleta chimed in. “They believe everybody is good and if they love someone, they’ll be loved in return. They want to be accepted.” Often, Dennis said, people don’t know how to respond to those with intellectual disabilities. “They’re uncomfortable, and it takes a while for them to understand these people just want to be kids. These (special) kids don’t realize how different they are from other people and they don’t have ‘cooties.’” For Lisenbee, Shenny (as Archuleta and Dennis are affectionately called by the Special Olympics fold), the active and consistent interaction with Special Olympics is a blessing. “I think (that commitment) comes from who and what they are,” Lisenbee said. “Their hearts – the core of them – is just genuine love and compassion for people. They got connected with a population which is one of the most disparaged populations in the world. They’re committed to being champions for them, and that they are.” The commitment of Archuleta and Dennis has brought new recognition for the Special Olympics athletes.

Courageous athletes “For Shawn and Jenny, this is not a sympatric charity thing, but rather they see the WINTER 2015 | MAJESTIC LIVING | 73

light and courage of our athletes and they’re determined to give them opportunities to participate and be part of our society,” Lisenbee said. “This is a respect they give our athletes that others see and do likewise.” It is the kids and the young people Special Olympics makes a priority that keeps Archuleta and Dennis involved. “Special Olympics gives these athletes who don’t have other opportunities in our community to get out and do things,” Dennis said. “Special Olympics is free or low cost and we do what we can to raise money for them and to help. It’s a financial hardship on the families who don’t always have the money, for their kids to be out in the world and not just watching television.”

Special Olympics means family Special Olympics is much more than just an organization that helps others, Archuleta said, “These kids are very accepting of us. My family is their family and they’re always grateful to see us. They expect us to be around and they make us feel like we belong (in their world).” While Archuleta has retired from the Farmington Police Department, she continues her work with Special Olympics. She is the assistant state director for the Law Enforcement Torch Run for Special Olympics and will be the state director for the event in 2016. Dennis hopes to teach other police officers how to deal effectively with the intellectually disabled in their line of work. “We’ve never had this type of training,” Dennis said, “and law

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enforcement hasn’t had to deal with it a lot.” Dennis plans to teach classes to law enforcement officers in San Juan County through their on-going training. Eventually, Dennis hopes to provide the training to all first responders throughout the state. The training will help people understand the special needs of the intellectually disabled and how to interact with them. Archuleta encourages others to support Special Olympics. “Come out and participate with these kids,” she said. “It is life changing.”

has resulted in many of our employees being touched by the wonderful athletes and has made the lives of many better. That is one of the greatest things anyone can achieve -- to touch people’s lives and make them better. I'm very proud of their efforts.”

Lisenbee echoed those sentiments.

Give credit to Chief Kyle Westall Archuleta and Dennis give credit to former Police Chief Kyle Westall for his support and encouragement of their involvement in Special Olympics – both on and off the job. It was Westall who introduced Archuleta to the Law Enforcement Torch Run for

Special Olympics in 1990. Current Farmington Police Chief Steve Hebbe also supports the efforts of the two. "Shawn and Jenny have spearheaded a long term relationship between the Farmington Police Department and the Special Olympics,” Hebbe said. “Their dedication

“I wasn’t privy to all the dynamics that brought Shenny into the Special Olympics fold, but they are now family,” she said. “In no small part because of their efforts at awareness, respect and opportunity, our athletes believe that the heroes of our county – law enforcement, fire and first responders – belong to them. That they are present for every need and every accomplishment. That they are championed by champions.” “It doesn’t get any better than that,” she added.

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Bernadones continued from 20 atmosphere. So we became known for longer lunches and a packed parking lot.” Customers liked the restaurant so much that it grew out of its building. The Bernadones decided to close it and build the new restaurant.

Restaurant feels like home “I’ve known Mario and his family for years,” said Dorothy Linicus of Farmington. “They’re closer than my family. I love the feeling they give to their restaurant. I’m an invalid, and I feel perfectly comfortable going there. It feels like an extension of my own home.” The walls of the new restaurant help to make it unique. They contain marmorino, an Italian product that includes Italian lime plaster and marble dust. Using marmorino is labor intensive but results in walls with unique burnished designs that emerge from properly applying several layers of plaster. Mario tried to teach subcontractors how to apply the plaster, but they couldn’t do it, so he taught his two oldest sons, teenagers Anthony and Marcelino. “They got really good at it,” Mario said. “They were more attentive to detail. They were willing to put the effort into it. They never complain. It’s a testimony to their character. I’m really proud that they’ve become men on this job.”

so they don’t have to try to impress anybody. They just speak the truth. They’re becoming friends to us more than children now.”

“We go back to the old way. We cook with wood. It’s much better tasting. It’s labor intensive, but we do the work for you.” — Mario Bernadone

Homeschooling room The Bernadones have built a homeschool room in the restaurant for their children. There’s even a couch on which their youngest son, 1-year-old Vincenzo, can take a nap. Laura gives the children directions. When she works in the restaurant, the older kids do their own school work and help the younger children. If problems arise, Laura intervenes. If she needs help, Mario steps in as the principal. “We take breaks and go home,” Laura said. “We take care of our animals. We go back and forth.” School doesn’t consume their entire lives. 76 | MAJESTIC LIVING | WINTER 2015

Already Anthony and Marcelino know how to cook and how to handle the kitchen, and oldest daughter Chiara is learning as well. Laura is executive chef, but she doesn’t handle the responsibility alone. “Our sons have good heads on their shoulders,” she said. “They know how to do everything. They know if something doesn’t look right. They know how to read the menus. If I have to take care of the little guys for awhile, they’re my eyes and ears.” Mario calls their lifestyle unique. “We’re proud of all eight of our kids,” he said. “They don’t have peer pressure with homeschooling,

Treat employees like family The Bernadones treat their employees like family. When customers come into the restaurant crying, Laura comforts them. The restaurant is open from 11 a.m. to 8 p.m. Tuesday to Saturday. That schedule allows the entire family to attend church together at 8:30 a.m. daily at St. Mary’s Parish. By 9:30 a.m. they’re at the restaurant prepping for the day. “We have a lot of quiet family time despite the chaos of the restaurant,” Mario said. “When we have free time, we’re all together, and we stay at home.”

Love their work No matter how time consuming the restaurant is, the Bernadones love their work. Mario summed it up for his family. “It’s a ministry for us really, reaching out to Farmington and sharing what we’ve been given, not because we’re great people, but we’ve been blessed a lot.”

M L

Stay away from the cliché

Coolest Things Gifts for All Ages

If you’ve listened closely to what your loved ones have been talking about all year then you have a pretty good idea what to get them for Christmas. The best gifts are identified through interactions, simple conversations and patience. Identifying the best gift for a family member, colleague, friend or neighbor takes time and forethought before shopping begins. During a lifetime we probably receive hundreds of gifts, but we don’t remember very many of them. Here are some ideas of gifts that might just be one of those that will be remembered for years to come. No matter what you choose, enjoy the time you spend with those you love this year; that is more important than 1,000 gifts. Merry Christmas from all of us here at Majestic Media.

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4 LIVIN’ THE HIGH LIfE

Lego Elves Tree Top Hideaway www.shop.lego.com

THE fORCE IS WITH yOU!

Star Wars Bladebuilder Jedi Master Lightsaber Retail stores including Target, Walmart, Lego building gets a little bit more magical Kmart and online at Amazon and eBay with the new Lego Elves line. You’ll see a bit of a new sparkle as you walk down the Build your own lightsaber! This set comes construction aisle, as Lego brings this new with components to create more than 100 storyline to life. When Emily Jones takes combinations. The set features lights and an unexpected journey through a mysteri- sounds, two independently lit lightdaggers, ous portal in her grandma’s garden, she an expansion hilt, two elbow connectors, travels through the magical world of the and more! Elves to try to get home again. Emily enlists the help of her four Elvish friends to $119.99 find the four keys to open the portal, which will let her go back home. Ages 9+. $49.99 78 | MAJESTIC LIVING | WINTER 2015

GUESS WHAT THIS LITTLE BIRD TOLD ME?

Little Live Pets CleverKeet Amazon, Walmart, ToysRus When you meet CleverKeet, you give it a name and he/she remembers it! It’s just like adopting a real bird! He can record and repeat your messages like the other Little Live PetTM birds, but this bird can do so much more! He’s already learned how to talk and can answer all your questions! Play with him and talk to him and he will mash up his sentences to make funny new comments. CleverKeet comes with one CleverKeet bird, one playground, one cart, one instruction booklet and an adoption certificate. $48 to 59.99

THE KIDS ARE SUCH CHARACTERS

Disney Descendants Signature Outfit Doll Assortment www.toysrus.com Meet the teenage descendants of Disney’s heroes and villains wearing their enchanted signature looks from the movie. These dolls each come with rooted hair, a stylish outfit, an iconic locket, and a sticker. $19.99

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SoMETHINg oTHER THAN SELFIES

Smartphone Projector www.uncommongoods.com

WILL BE JAMMIN’

Jam Classic Bluetooth Wireless Speaker www.amazon.com or www.jamaudio.com They may not be all too familiar with a Your music-obsessed teen will love rocking drive-in movie theater, but teens can repli- out to his favorite tunes with these portable cate the same fun in their own bedroom, Jam speakers from HMDX. Built for adwatching video clips from their phone. venturers, the JAM XT is designed to handle anything. Drop it, splash it, or get it $30 dirty — this speaker couldn’t care less! It projects booming volume in just about any condition. With a rubberized exterior and flip-out carabiner, it’s ready to go wherever your next journey takes you. In six fun colors, these speakers can play music wirelessly from a smartphone, tablet, or laptop. $30

MIX, MATCH, SHARE WITH FRIENDS

FACE THE MUSIC

Story of the Earth set of seven bracelets www.uncommongoods.com

iPhone Charger Sticker Faces Set www.uncommongoods.com

With this collection of handcrafted bracelets, the whole Earth and its history is right at hand to help you express yourself. Each band has a unique combination of colors, charms, beads and decorative knot work, allowing you to find a symbolic meaning in each one. The bracelets can be mixed and matched, or worn individually or together to suit your look, your mood and your place in the world. Bracelets are made from durable waxed cords, and have either button-and-loop or adjustable knot closures. Handmade. $35

Put a human face on your technology. All those stark white Apple accessories are easy to lose, easy to confuse. These sly vinyl labels set your stuff apart: they’re custom-designed to fit the accessories of your favorite devices, including iPhone, iPod, and iPad. You’ll get four characters, each with precision die-cut labels for an adapter, a USB cord (both ends, of course), and earphones. The sturdy, UVcoated vinyl labels are easy to remove and reapply. Made in the USA. $12.95 WINTER 2015 | MAJESTIC LIVING | 79

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BraGWorthy GiFts For yoUr GUy

mancrates: For the manly man in your life www.mancrates.com Say no to ugly neckties, aftershave and executive trinkets. Get something for the manly man in your life. Mancrates.com has every kind of crate your man might want. Chose from personalized for seating, drinking, grilling, sports, personalized and outdoors. Some examples include personalized pint set, baconology kit, pit master, bass whisperer and more. The gifts are shipped in a fiendishly sealed wooden crate with a laser-etched crowbar included. $19 to $150 80 | MAJESTIC LIVING | WINTER 2015

Unleash the Beast

tattoo Wash www.billyjealousy.com Is your dragon a little droopy? Your pinup babe looking a little played out? Maybe your skull looks more sorry than scowling? Fear not, ye handsome devil. Billy Jealousy’s Tattoo Wash contains four fearsome cleaners to rid skin of dirt, excess oil and dead skin cells. Cucumber extract helps tattoos retain their color while hydrolyzed oat protein helps skin retain moisture to enhance tattoo vibrancy. Glycolic AHA and papaya extract exfoliate and polish. Good to use following a new tattoo to assist in the healing process. $30

Warm and FUzzy

Camp blanket with leather holder www.williams-sonoma.com The Pendleton camp blanket is an American classic, inspired by the striped blankets that cowboys carried on their saddles and unrolled to make camp after a long day. This wool/cotton blanket keeps you warm and cozy in all seasons, from winter ski trips to summer campouts and horse pack trips. It comes with a leather holder for easy transport. Woven of 86 percent wool and 14 percent cotton. It includes leather holder with handle and shoulder strap. Made in USA by Pendleton, founded in Oregon in 1909. $134.95

We’re almost home CheWie!

air hogs star Wars remote Control Ultimate millennium Falcon Quad www.amazon.com With the imminent release of the new Star Wars film this Christmas, you better believe there’s a whole crop of fun new toys on the shelves this season. One of the most exciting is a Millennium Falcon drone that lights up and makes sounds. Sure, it may be designed for 10-year-old boys, but we’ll venture a guess that almost every guy would love one of these this year. Its 2.4Ghz communication lets you control the Millennium Falcon from up to 200 feet away! $119.69

NETFLIX BINGE WATCHING NECESSITY

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Snow Day printed fleece robe www.net-a-porter.com

CELEBRATE YOuR JOuRNEY

Alex and Ani Spiritual Armor Endless Knot wire bangle www.amazon.com DKNY’s Snow Day robe is crafted from Alex and Ani jewelry is a great gift for soft and cozy fleece with a snowflake pat- women of all ages. These bangles are reltern. Cut for a loose and enveloping fit, this atively inexpensive, but their wide range of style has a shawl collar and a detachable styles makes each piece feel unique to the sash to pull it in at the waist. Wear yours person who receives it. This style, the Endon weekends when it’s too cold to venture less Knot from the Spiritual Armor collecout. tion, symbolizes destiny and life’s unique journey. The bracelet is made in America $80 from recycled Russian gold. $58

MOM IS OuR HERO

Wonder Woman Character Apron www.ebay.com Looking for a stocking stuffer that lets Mom know she is your hero? Well here it is. Everyone’s mom is wonder woman to her family, every day. Her superhero powers allow everyone else’s life to run smoothly. Now she can look the part. This is the perfect gift for a woman who loves comic books, baking, or both. When she wears this apron, she’ll look just like Wonder Woman.

THE MAGIC OF MARRAKESH

MOROCCAN TEA GLASSES SET OF SIX www.vivaterra.com The shimmering hues of these painted glasses brighten any gathering from Casbah to cottage. Use them to serve steaming tea or chilled wine. Our favorite alternative: create a jewel-like ambience on the dining table or mantle with tealight inserts. Assorted colors: turquoise, amber, brown, pink, purple, grey. Hand wash. Made in Spain.

$15.50 $26 WINTER 2015 | MAJESTIC LIVING | 81

ADVERTISERS DIRECTORy Animas Credit Union..................................40 2101 E. 20th St., 3850 E. Main St. Farmington, N.M. 505-326-7701 405 W. Broadway Inside Farmer’s Market Bloomfield, N.M. www.animascu.com Bar D Wranglers........................................31 Beehive Homes.........................................62 400 N. Locke, 508 N. Airport Farmington, N.M. 505-427-3794

The First Tee ............................................50 thefirstteesanjuancounty.org Four Corners Community Bank...................38 Six Convenient Locations Farmington • Aztec • Cortez NM 505-327-3222 CO 970-564-8421 www.TheBankForMe.com Highlands University.................................39 505-566-3552 nmhu.edu/farmington

Budget Blinds.............................................2 825 N. Sullivan, Farmington, N.M. 505-324-2008

J A Jewelers ..............................................15 4005 E. Main St. Farmington, NM 505-599-9400 www.jajewels.com

Celebrations Party Store ...........................58 419 E. Broadway Farmington, NM 505-436-2054 www.celebrationspartystoreandmore.com

Jack O. Smalley, DDS..................................83 2650 E. Pinon Frontage Rd., #300 Farmington, NM 505-327-3331 www.smile42day.com

Cellular One..............................................77 1-800-657-6395 c1businesssolutions.com

Jae-Geo’s Bridal and Tuxedo......................21 302 W. Main St. Farmington, NM 505-326-5240 www.jaegeosformalwear.com

City of Farmington............................26 & 28 505-599-1144 The Dental Studio on 30th ........................71 2401 E. 30th St., Bldg. 1 Farmington, NM 505-592-0477 www.thedentalstudio.com Desert Hills Dental Care ..............................5 2525 E. 30th St. Farmington, N.M. 505-327-4863 www.deserthillsdental.com Desert View Family Counseling ..................34 6100 E. Main St. Farmington, NM 505-326-7878 www.desertview.org The Dusty Attic .........................................21 111 W. Main Farmington, NM 505-327-7696 Edward Jones/Kristy Visconti .....................14 4801 N. Butler, Suite 7101 Farmington, NM 505-326-7200 www.edwardjones.com EZ Shade..................................................12 8081 E. Main St. Farmington, NM 505-326-7700 www.ezshade.net Farmington Funeral Home...........................7 2111 W. Apache St., Farmington, NM www.farmingtonfuneral.com Farmers Insurance/Nate Duckett ...............57 2713 E. 20th St., Suite F Farmington, NM 505-258-4721

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Kathy’s Discount Party Store.....................21 3836-B East Main St., Farmington, NM 505-324-1080 Kitchen and Bath Artworks ........................69 7525 E. Main St. Farmington, NM 505-860-8166 Kristen Harrington ....................................21 413 N. Auburn Farmington, NM 505-564-4789 M Moose ..................................................22 5920 E. Main St., Suite A Farmington, NM 505-325-7800 Magic Roofing ..........................................46 1206 E. Murray Farmington, NM 505-324-1094 www.magicroofing.com Mikasa .....................................................41 400 W. Main St. Farmington, NM 505-327-2255 www.mikasafarmington.com Millennium Insurance ................................50 2700 Farmington Ave., Building A Farmington, NM 505-325-1849 www.millnm.com Next Level Home Audio & Video ................47 1510 E. 20th St., Suite A Farmington, N.M. 505-327-NEXT www.327NEXT.com

No Worries Sports Bar & Grill.....................53 At the Airport Farmington, NM 505-436-2657

San Juan United Way .................................35 505-326-1195 www.sjunitedway.org

On the Spot Cleaning ................................38 505-327-0592 www.onthespotcleaningnm.com

Sanchez and Sanchez Real Estate................4 4301 Largo St. Suite F Farmington, NM 87402 505-327-9039

Orthopedic Associates PA .........................18 2300 E. 30th St., D-10 Farmington, NM 505-327-1400 www.oa-pa.com

Sewing Studio ..........................................21 407 W. Broadway Farmington, NM 505-325-2688 www.sewingstudio.net

Partners Assisted Living ...........................56 313 N. Locke Ave. Farmington, N.M. 505-325-9600 www.partnerassistedliving.com

Smiles 4 Kids............................................73 Farmington, N.M. 505-592-0226

Pinon Hills Community Church ...................84 505-325-4541 www.pinonhillschurch.com Presbyterian Medical Services ...................63 Festival of Trees 505-599-1148 Quality Appliance......................................58 522 E. Broadway Farmington, N.M. 505-327-6271 R Sports...................................................68 3010 E. 20th St., Suite B Farmington, NM R.A. Biel Plumbing & Heating ....................75 Farmington, N.M. 505-327-7755 www.rabielplumbing.com Raindrops, Inc. .........................................19 4001 E. Main St. Farmington, NM 505-327-7425 Reliance Medical Group.....................35 & 64 3451 N. Butler Avenue Farmington, N.M. 505-566-1915 1409 West Aztec Blvd. Aztec, N.M. 505-334-1772 www.reliancemedicalgroup.com ReMax of Farmington..................................3 108 N. Orchard Farmington, N.M. 505-327-4777 www.remax.com Riteway Flooring America ..........................13 6550 E. Main St. Farmington, NM 505-599-9494 www.ritewayflooringfarmington.com Sage Meadow Realty .................................52 920 NE Aztec Blvd. Aztec, NM 505-334-4148 www.sagemeadowproperties.com San Juan College ......................................65 505-326-3311 www.sanjuancollege.edu

Southwest Concrete Supply .......................70 2420 E. Main Farmington, N.M. 505-325-2333 www.swconcretesupply.com Southwest Obstetrics and Gynecology........51 634 West Pinon Farmington, NM 505-325-4898 www.Southwest-OBGYN.net State Farm Insurance/Ginny Gill.................44 3060 E. 20th St., Suite D Farmington, NM 505-327-3771 Sun Glass .................................................20 602 West Main Street Farmington, N.M. 505-327-9677 www.sunglassfarmington.com Sunray Gaming .........................................62 On Hwy 64. Farmington, N.M. 505-566-1200 Tafoya Realty............................................46 5600 Mickey Dr. B&C Farmington, NM 505-599-0000 www.tafoyarealty.com Treadworks .............................................74 4227 E. Main St. Farmington, N.M. 505-327-0286 4215 Hwy. 64 Kirtland, N.M. 505-598-1055 www.treadworks.com Ultraform..................................................59 209 S Fairview Ave. Farmington, NM 505-325-2025 Uniform Kingdom......................................30 910 San Juan Blvd. Farmington, NM 505-564-4990 myuniformshop.com Ziems Ford ...............................................45 5700 E. Main Farmington, N.M. 505-325-8826