Taos Woman 2021 by The Taos News

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“Alone we can do so little, together we can do so much.” – Helen Keller

photos by Morgan Timms, Taos News

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Contents

Strong enough to be vulnerable

Taos disaster-relief volunteers turn the pandemic tide

BY HAVEN LINDSEY

True grace

Gail Russell captures the light, life and spirit of the Southwest

BY DENA MILLER

Women Give to a deserving few

So DreamTree can give back

BY DENA MILLER

Young women to watch

Up close with the Taoseña Awards recipients 20 Gloria

Garcia-Salazar

Graduating seniors are new leaders

BY LILY SANBORN

24 Jennifer Ortiz 28 JoAnn Ortiz 32 Mary Gilroy

36 Maye Torres 40 Taylor Etchemendy

44 Tracy Jaramillo 48 Tiana Suazo

ON THE COVER TAOSEÑA MAYA TORRES PHOTO BY MORGAN TIMMS DESIGN BY KARIN EBERHARDT

From the editor ‘As we are liberated from our own fear, our presence automatically liberates others.’ – MARIANNE WILLIAMSON, ‘A RETURN TO LOVE’ (HARPERCOLLINS, 1992)

Freedom to be all we can be in any given moment is something many Taos women are known for, and their fearlessness creates greater freedom and resilience for the rest of us.

The Women Give arm of Taos Community Foundation’s grant to DreamTree is just one example of how giving to the few empowers the many, also covered by Dena Miller.

Such strength has been a saving grace for surviving the novel coronavirus pandemic of 2020 and 2021, when so many (typically Taos women) have been able to lend helping hands to Taoseños when they’ve really needed it.

Lily Sanborn presents three classmates, graduating seniors of Taos High School, young women to watch for their history and expectations of excellence for themselves and Taos.

CHRIS BAKER, PUBLISHER

The 2021 Taoseña Awards: Honoring Eight Women of Impact is Wednesday (March 24) at a Sabroso in Arroyo Seco and streamed on Facebook Live. Hosted by Taos News, the honorees are: Tiana Suazo, executive director of Taos Pueblo’s Red Willow Center, who also insured Taos Pueblo fresh food during lockdown; JoAnn Ortiz, for her extensive community and educational contributions, now intensely involved in Shared Table; retired educator Mary Gilroy, passionate about literacy for dyslexic students; artist/ gallerist Maye Torres, for representing many Taos artists in her inviting Plaza gallery; Gloria Garcia Salazar, for her dedication to innumerable nonprofits of Taos and Arroyo Seco; Jennifer Ortiz, a Labor & Delivery nurse at Holy Cross Medical Center and volunteer coach for Taos Cheer; and the mother/daughter duo of Tracy Jaramillo and Taylor Jaramillo Etchemendy – both involved in Early Childhood Education programs, phenomenal leaders on behalf of children and families of Taos.

KARIN EBERHARDT, CREATIVE DIRECTOR

No one seems quite sure what it is about Taos that so encourages women to step up and be counted, but Taos women definitely do it. And unlike so many other towns in the U.S. and around the world, Taos actively celebrates its female heroes, such as in this 9th annual issue of Taos Woman, notably published during Women’s History Month in the U.S. This year’s women are compassionate yet tough educators, entrepreneurs, artists and healers of Taos Pueblo, HispanoAmerican and Anglo-American cultures of Taos. In this edition of “Taos Woman” (hopefully publishing on the heels of COVID-19), Haven Lindsey covers the amazing response of the Enchanted Circle’s Community Organization Active in Disasters (COAD), a group that is still growing in numbers and efficacy, keeping our Enchanted Circle communities safe. Artist and photographer Gail Russell’s more-than-40-year career in Northern New Mexico is highlighted in Dena Miller’s stellar review of Russell, who exquisitely captures the light, life and spirit of the Southwest.

Northern New Mexico is indeed blessed to have such wonderful people working so tirelessly and gracefully to support our communities.

VIRGINIA L. CLARK, magazine editor 4

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STAFF ROBIN MARTIN, OWNER

VIRGINIA L. CLARK, MAGAZINE EDITOR TAYLOR HOOD, INTERIM EDITOR

MORGAN TIMMS, PHOTOGRAPHER CHRIS WOOD, ADVERTISING DIRECTOR SHANE ATKINSON, SALES MANAGER CINDY BOIVERT, MEDIA SPECIALIST KATIE DENHAM, MEDIA SPECIALIST EMILY LEE, MEDIA SPECIALIST SEAN RATLIFF, PRODUCTION MANAGER PAUL GUTCHES, DIGITAL EDITOR

CONTRIBUTING WRITERS HAVEN LINDSEY, DENA MILLER LILY SANBORN

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WOMEN GIVE TAOS IS A GIVING CIRCLE that unites women as leaders to create opportunities for women and children in Taos and western Colfax Counties. As a collective group, Women Give Taos awarded $50,000 in grant awards last year to several non-profit programs. Our featured organization was DreamTree Project with a $30,000 award! For information on joining Women Give Taos please visit our website at taoscf.org.

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vulnerable

Strong enough to be Taos disaster-relief volunteers turn the pandemic tide by Haven Lindsey

photos by Lily Sanborn

EC COAD (Enchanted Circle Community Organization Active in Disasters) was formed within days of COVID-19 announcement in March 2020. Included in this weekly consortium of committed community members are, left to right, Sonya Struck, Lisa O’Brien, AnJanette Brush, Sandy Crowther, Erin Sanborn, Chyna Dixon, April Prout-Ralph, Jill Cline, Cheri Lyon and Darlene Vigil. Not pictured: Lindsey Pfaff Bain, Rasa Lila O'Donnell, Kristina Ortez, Anita Bringas, Kaela Gillum, Colleen Shaunessey, Linda Calhoun, Gayle Martinez, Teresa Swayne, Marjorie Luckey, Karina Armijo, Liana Bayles, and many others who are working in different initiatives like 100% Community, COVID Medical Task Force, Food Systems Group and more.

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Strong enough to be

vulnerable the history of disasters and emergency THROUGHOUT situations, we’ve witnessed humans – rather than fracture from a situation – grow stronger. During the California wildfires, the floods in Texas or the aftermath of Sept. 11, it is unlikely that First Responders, neighbors and volunteers helping save lives, stopped to ask those they were helping who they voted for in the last election or what their religion is or where they were born. In times of strife, the things we often allow to divide and limit us are suddenly not as important as being safe, having food and shelter, and taking care of one another. In some ways, disastrous situations make way for opportunities to not only respond to an emergency, but to also strengthen ties. In early March 2020, when Gov. Lujan Grisham began to inform her constituents that every community needed to prepare for what was likely to become a deadly and pervasive pandemic, a small group of community leaders came together for an initial meeting. Like most Americans, Taos Community Foundation Director Lisa O’Brien, Holy Cross Emergency Manager David Elliot, Kit Carson Electric Cooperative Business & Organization Development Manager Erin Sanborn, KCEC Chief Executive Officer Luís Reyes, and Town of Taos Marketing Tourism Director Karina Armijo had no idea what to expect. Yet with disaster looming, all agreed there was no time for lengthy participant searches, mission statements or weighing agenda items. Within a matter of days, the group went from the seeming innocence of pre-pandemic life to an ‘All hands on deck!’ mindset to prepare and protect the community for the unwelcome arrival of COVID-19. Within days, the Enchanted Circle Community Organization Active in

Disasters (COAD) was formed with the goal to put the community first and solve unmet needs. The initial meeting quickly expanded into a weekly COAD consortium of a growing number of committed community leaders, public service employees and passionate volunteers. But this wasn’t like most community, town or government groups showing up with individual or organizational agendas to do their part (and only their part). Agendas and biases were checked at the virtual door as the group, effectively led by everyone and no one, emerged with a collective sense of cohesion, compassion and support for their community. As is often the case during disasters and times of strife, humility held a large seat at the COAD table. With uncertainty being the only sure thing, the group discussed ways to identify and solve the unmet needs of their community. Meanwhile, in the background, along with the rest of us, the lives of the members were being disrupted in unprecedented ways. Children were at home trying to do remote schoolwork and adapt to the new rules of isolation and social distancing, elderly family members were frightened and confused, even family pets had to adjust to the new routine of everyone being at home. Stores were shuttered, lines were long, layoffs common and stress was high – the dedicated COAD members were not immune to some of the very problems they were trying to solve. Each member brought their knowledge, resources and strengths – and as they discovered, one of those strengths was the ability to be vulnerable. Perhaps it is due to the presence of vulnerability that the COAD has been able to achieve new levels of success, communication and collaboration in a short amount of time. It can be impossible to hide or sugarcoat the challenges of a pandemic when the dog is barking, a child is crying, a spouse or partner walks into the room frustrated, or the sounds of broken glass can be heard hitting the tile floor in the background.

The striking vulnerabilities of humanity were front and center as everyone learned to juggle their own set of stressors and support one another while never venturing from their focus to put their community first

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A Woman’s Touch Left to right:

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Strong enough to be

vulnerable

‘Agendas and biases were checked at the virtual door as the group, effectively led by everyone and no one, emerged with a collective sense of cohesion, compassion and support for their community.

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Left to right, EC COAD members Sandy Crowther, April Prout-Ralph, Jill Cline and AnJanette Brush.

Dr. Randi Archuleta

Anita Bringas

Patricia Gonzales

Nikki Maes

Dean of Instruction

Director of Student Aﬀairs

Nina Feliz Gonzales

Strategic Support Manager

Program Specialist

Jessica Sanchez-Romero

Information Technology Manager

Project/Construction Manager

Celebrating women in leadership at your local University branch campus. so happy to work for an organization that supports diversity, inclusion and “ I’m equity, and it’s an honor to be able to work with such a great team of amazing, strong, talented, and exceptional women leaders. We are lucky to have them leading our college and serving our community, and it sets a requisite example for other organizations and groups. I know that this team of women do and will continue to inspire others to lead and serve. – Louis Moya UNM-Taos Development Oﬃcer

“

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Dr. Cynthia Rooney Interim Chancellor

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Strong enough to be

vulnerable the group said women have had an FROM THE ONSET equal and equitable voice in the COAD, so much so that their feminine energies and nurturing, compassionate qualities have been keys to the group’s overarching success. According to AnJanette Brush, Taos County Commissioner, District 4, “Women have brought a fresh energy and a voice to this group. We’re impatient and we own it.” Indeed, that impatience has been the catalyst to make things happen where age-old limitations would likely have prevented that progress prior to the pandemic. Women are natural communicators and as the community faced a pandemic of epic proportions their communication skills prevented a ‘left hand not knowing what the right hand is doing’ scenario. Emergency manager Elliot’s knowledge of other COADs and disaster response measures has been a core component to meeting the needs of the community. Other male leaders have also played an integral role in funding initiatives and problem solving and continue to do so, yet never before, they say, has the voice of the female resonated so loudly and effectively as it has during COAD’s response to the pandemic. Oftentimes women run households and when they do, it is usually by fostering a safe and loving environment with a no-nonsense, ‘pick up your dirty socks’ approach. The matriarchal energy combines compassionate, nurturing qualities with a common sense pragmatism that isn’t afraid to ask, “Why not?” and certainly doesn’t abide by the, “We’ve never done it that way before” excuse. These are the leadership qualities women have brought to the COAD, effectively nurturing their community with a holistic healing style while concomitantly raising the bar to more effective and efficient problem solving. In one example, the group learned a growing number of senior citizens quarantining for safety were experiencing food insecurity.

It became apparent there were two local organizations that could help – one with a truck they weren’t utilizing and the other with access to food and volunteers, but no way of distributing it. With no time or patience for entertaining how things were done or not done before the pandemic, the COAD employed their common sense approach and within a matter of days, the previously parked truck was loaded and volunteers were distributing food to seniors in need. The ripple effect of those first small successes has led to larger successes and continues to do so. At press time, the COAD has nearly 50 active members and is working to represent every demographic. With hope that the disaster may soon be receding, the COAD has its eyes on the future of economic development and preparedness. Perhaps Taos County Commissioner, District 3, Darlene Vigil said it best, “No one would wish this pandemic on any community, but through the strength and resilience of the COAD, we’ve not just survived, we’ve thrived.”

A group of the EC COAD team celebrate the Enchanted Circle’s ability to not only survive, but actually thrive, while negotiating the cultural and economic tsunami of the novel coronavirus pandemic of 2020-2021. Pictured left to right are Lisa O’Brien, Sonya Struck, Cheri Lyon, AnJanette Brush, Sandy Crowther, Chyna Dixon, April Prout-Ralph, Jill Cline, Darlene Vigil and Erin Sanborn.

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Strong enough to be

vulnerable

AM INSPIRED by the power of collaboration our community has demonstrated in addressing both the urgent and long-term needs of COVID-19 and beyond.

AM PROUD of our communities’ response to COVID. I have witnessed an incredible willingness to partner and problem solve as we all struggled to find our feet in new ways of working.

As unfortunate as COVID has been, it has also pushed us to find common ground and bring our best work to the table. I am grateful for the relationships formed and for the collective work we have created. Its been a remarkable exercise in how we continue to move forward.

HE PANDEMIC has been challenging, trying and difficult.

Yet in the midst of it all, I have experienced the best in people come forward, especially the women in our community. I am grateful for everyone in these times.

Y OBLIGATION and desire to preserve our communities’ interest and support vital economic and social drivers are core to my values, intentions, and purpose.

There is unmatched strength in a community united, I am honored to be part of that strength! Devoting my time and energy to address the unmet need in our beautiful community is my way of impacting meaningful change.

Chyna Dixon

Lisa M. O’Brien Erin Sanborn

Sonya Struck

WORKING LANDS

TAOS COMMUNITY FOUNDATION DIRECTOR

LOR FOUNDATION PROGRAM OFFICER

RESILIENCY INITIATIVE DIRECTOR

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KIT CARSON ELECTRIC COOPERATIVE BUSINESS & ORGANIZATION DEVELOPMENT MANAGER

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DANCING FOR ALL LIFE, PHOTOGRAPH BY GAIL RUSSELL

True grace GAIL RUSSELL CAPTURES THE LIGHT, LIFE AND SPIRIT OF THE SOUTHWEST by Dena Miller

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true grace is innate,

and when you come across someone in whom its authenticity shines, you immediately recognize it. Such is the case when you first meet Gail Russell, whose gentle eyes and welcoming smile greet you at the door of her studio filled with a life’s work of inspiration and enlightenment. Known for her evocative photographic art, Russell has spent decades capturing “images of light, life and the spirit of the Southwest.” Her award-winning imagery is never static; instead,

it is meant,” she said, “to create questions and ideas, like any visual art should, and continually provide a fresh glimpse into the world.” “Over the years, my artwork has been a connecting energy in communicating things that are important to me,” explained Russell. “I’m grateful for those who have resonated with my work and those I’ve met along the way who have inspired me.” Much of that inspiration has come from her long and intimate association with Native American elders who embody, to her, the interrelation of spirit and nature.

DANCE OF PEACE, PHOTOGRAPH BY GAIL RUSSELL

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TRUE GRACE: GAIL RUSSELL CAPTURES THE LIGHT, LIFE AND SPIRIT OF THE SOUTHWEST

TAOS PUEBLO, CHRISTMAS EVE, PHOTOGRAPH BY GAIL RUSSELL. CA. 1985, BEFORE THE PUEBLO BANNED CAMERAS.

grandparents I knew grew up in the mid‘THE 1800s; they didn’t grow up with the modern world. So the elders who are still with us learned how to live off the land and, in turn, I’ve learned a tremendous amount from them,” she mused. Russell co-founded the “Adopt a Grandparent” program on the Pine Ridge Reservation in South Dakota, working alongside Lakota Sioux elder Nellie Red Owl and administering the program for almost two decades. It became her mission while attending a business conference in nearby Rapid City, where she heard of three elders who had frozen to death in what is one of this country’s largest and poorest reservations. “It was in February and it was freezing cold,” Russell recalled. Compelled to help, “I started collecting clothing and blankets, and gift certificates for things like food, gas and propane. We made a huge difference over the years,” as she continued the charitable work from its small office in Taos and expanded to include members of Taos Pueblo. Russell has actively continued her philanthropic pursuits, including remaining close to and working with members of the pueblo. Adopt-A-Native-Elder, based in Park City, Utah, is also a beneficiary of her generosity, as is the school lunch/Growing Community Now programs of Farmhouse Cafe and Bakery in El Prado. “I gift a portion of the proceeds from my sales to them,” she noted. Of her childhood in “backwoods Connecticut,” Russell said, “I knew as early as 6 years old that I was in the wrong place.” Her academic studies in printmaking and graphic design gave way to photography and, years later, her move from the East Coast to Taos set her on the path she was meant to follow. From behind her camera – her “companion for life” – she has captured the best of Taos:

its heritage; its cultural diversity; its natural magnificence. Her works have led to a series of breakthrough exhibitions, including “Tribal Heart,” capturing images of Native American life and culture, and “Floating World,” “designed to give your mind a vacation.” Most recently, Russell has been at work developing four end-table books sharing the photography from those exhibitions, as well as successfully delving into the fashion world with an array of “Gazelle” scarves featuring her photographs on fabric, “Kangaroo Girls” pocket scarves and her trademarked “SallyGators” leg warmers. “My SallyGators were inspired by a painting done by one of my favorite Native artists, T. C. Cannon, called ‘Grandmother Gestating Father and the Washita River Runs Ribbon-Like.’ ” Available in different styles and fabrics, these and her scarves were featured in the 2019 Big Brothers Big Sisters Mountain Region annual fashion show. And, not surprisingly, proceeds benefitted the nonprofit organization. Personal evolution and growth is a tenet of Russell’s life but she is quick to credit the support she’s received from a group of close associates. “Our team includes Ginger Pizzurro, intuitive guide; Janaki Rathod, web designer; Signe Nichols, social media guru; Mark Griffith, business advisor; and Kali Little, muralist and allaround right-hand person.” “I surprise myself being on the north side of 80, that I am still active in my field and either behind a camera or in front of my computer almost every day.” “I’m grateful to be here in this beautiful place: this land, our mountains and the water that springs forth from them. If this beauty is to continue and flourish, she needs all of our help. To nourish, care for, and respect our unique surroundings,” Russell concluded.

,and Listen.”

“Be kind to the land each other and yourself Gail Russell in her studio. COURTESY PHOTO

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Gail Russell’s studio is located in the Northstar Plaza, 67 State Road 522, Suite A4, in El Prado. Visit her websites, gailrussellartandapparel.com and gailrussellphotoartist.com, or call 575-770-1507 for an appointment.

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GARCIA-SALAZAR

PHOTO BY MORGAN TIMMS/TAOS NEWS

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The Amazing Women at John Dunn Shops

CELEBRATE ALL

the Amazing Women inTaos PHOTO BY CHICK WITH CLICKS

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How did you get where you are today? Much of this credit belongs to my parents, Telesfor and Teodora Garcia of Des Montes. My parents taught us the value of family, excellent work ethics, respect and community. A portion of this credit belongs to my siblings, where they were a great positive impact on my upbringing. Credit also belongs to my husband and son, my nieces and nephews, and without reservation, my in-laws. Throughout the years, I have also met and worked with others, where I have learned valuable lessons of respect and consideration of others.

GLORIA GARCIA-SALAZAR How many years involved in your various endeavors? Of what are you most proud?

If possible, what advice would you give your teenage self?

My accomplishments are teaching our children they have a purpose in our lives and in our community.

We do NOT live in a perfect world. There will be obstacles and restrictions along the way. Remember, some of the restrictions encountered will be the restrictions created within oneself.

• Taos Feeds Taos (TFT volunteer/Board Member, present) – 9 years. Two years have been in board member capacity. My software development expertise has allowed me to develop the Christmas Vouchers and Grocery Certificates based on the data gathered from TFT. Providing my skills, has helped TFT avoid contractual services. • Beavers Inc 4-H Club, Arroyo Seco (Club Leader, present) – 8 years, three years in club leadership role. Club projects have included Taos Feeds Taos; handcrafting and delivering Valentines to patients at the Taos Living Center; Adopt-A-Highway bi-yearly cleanup of State Road 150 to Taos Ski Valley; participating in Arroyo Seco 4th of July parade (kids have won for best pet float twice); building bird houses; learning to plant a garden from seed; along with learning to care for your animal. • Holy Trinity Parish Mayodormos (present) – 9 years. Due to COVID-19 restrictions, we observe county restrictions for attendance, sanitizing and disinfecting the church before and after mass. I’m proud keeping our community safe.

families encountered a very difficult and trying year.

How do you create a sane work-life balance? Since retirement, over five years ago, and no longer commuting from Arroyo Seco to Santa Fe, it is a lot easier. With that said, my concentration is for our kids and our community.

What do you think is the biggest issue for women right now? I believe the biggest issue for women is Equal Pay.

Who are your real-life heroes? My real-life heroes are my parents and grandparents. Being raised on a farm, we have learned family values and hard-work ethics. My grandparents started our farm and ranch over 90 years ago; they had the foresight to envision their grandchildren’s livelihood. My parents taught us to work and be self-sustaining. They taught us the importance of education and family traditions. They taught us the value of living an honest life.

• Taos Swim Club (Board Member, present) – 9 years. Three years in board member capacity. Duties include assist in hiring experienced swim coaches; along with providing some form of development; and assisting in fundraising.

During the COVID-19 pandemic, as a family, we did not lack in much. Due to our family values instilled in us, we have all been able to share our talents and our produce grown.

• Local Grocers and Taos Farmers Market – Grocers 2 years, Farmers Market – new member, selling our local organic fruit. I want my parents and grandparents to know their hard work did not go in vain.

What has the COVID-19 pandemic made you be more aware of than ever before? Due to the pandemic restrictions and the many uncertainties that were brought upon us all, our kids and

What is the main message you want Taoseños to hear coming out of this pandemic year?

The Taos Public School employees have been working long hours trying to provide and accommodate to all the needs of our youth. They have provided computer equipment and online instruction, along with daily meals. The staff has worked tirelessly trying to keep our children abreast in their studies. If you are not teaching, counseling, preparing lunches or delivering, then you are preparing the school infrastructure for the time when our children are able to return to school. THANK YOU, TAOS PUBLIC SCHOOL EMPLOYEES! Our 4-H youth have also been affected by the pandemic. They were unsure of their indoor and livestock projects. After working long summer hours on projects, the kids were afraid the projects would go unnoticed, not be judged and/or sold at a livestock auction. The Taos County Extension employees and County Fair Board arranged for virtual judging and a virtual auction. Thank you, taos extension office and county fair board! Much appreciation also goes to Kit Carson Electric Cooperation and Captain Alejandro Rodríguez for the support you showed my son with his livestock projects. The Taos Swim Club (TSC) also took a hit this past year. Due to state restrictions, the Taos Youth and Family Center has been closed. Our kids are hopeful that as our county has moved to the yellow level of the pandemic, the town of Taos will reopen the swimming pool and allow them to get back to swimming. In addition, the annual tradition of the Taos Feeds Taos organization is to provide families in need with food boxes for the Christmas season. Once again, due to restrictions, TFT provided families with gift certificates to Super Save Discount Foods for food purchases. I am grateful TFT found a new method to support families in need. It has been a difficult year, but we are very fortunate to live in Taos. We are blessed that we do not reside within a big city.

Our children need us more than ever. Please help support our youth.

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SHOWCASING COLORFUL AND TALENTED TAOS WOMEN SINCE 2014 Karen Ahlgren Noël Anderson Nina Anthony Nora Anthony Monique Belitz Norlynne Coar Robin Cunningham Annie Degen Rebecca Dennis Lyra Fiset Nancy Fordyce Georgia Gersh Josie Hart Funny Hendrie Kim Henkel Lydia Johnston J’Brenta Jordan Noelle Kalom Margaret Nes Joan Norris Tizia O’Connor Sheila O’Malley Gyana Pendleton Debra Piedrafita Reina Abby Salsbury Rachael Saum Chris Spanovich Mary Stiegerwald Kim Trieber Nita Wolf

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ORTIZ

PHOTO BY MORGAN TIMMS/TAOS NEWS

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How did you get where you are today? The list is endless. That’s the beauty and magic of growing up in Taos, where the meaning behind “it takes a village” rings so true. But, primarily my family. The support and encouragement I receive on a daily basis from my husband, Carlos, is tremendous, he is my backbone, and believes in me and encourages me in whatever I take on. My children, Jordan, Camryn and Chloe, have always been and will be the drive and reason behind everything I do. My parents, Rudolph and Theresa Pacheco, who instilled essential moral values of faith, respect, humility, discipline, kindness and responsibility. Especially my mom, who has sacrificed and continues to sacrifice to ensure I have whatever I need to accomplish what I set out to do, watching my children so that I could focus on my studies and now work or coach. Extended family of amazing Taoseños, teachers/professors, religious leaders, friends, coworkers, and coaches including Lisa Abeyta-Valerio, who coached me throughout high school and continues to inspire, support and influence me today.

JENNIFER ORTIZ How many years involved in your various endeavors? Of what are you most proud? I have been a Registered Nurse at Holy Cross Medical Center here in Taos for 16 years this May. I have worked the majority of my nursing career and am currently working in the Labor and Delivery Unit, but have worked the Medical Surgical floor, and Pre- and Post-Surgical, and Endoscopy units as well. I have been a coach for Taos Xtreme Allstar Cheerleading teams for eight years, working with Taos youth ages 4-18; and just completed my first season as Head Coach of Taos Middle School Cheerleading team. The accomplishment I am most proud of is my family. I became a mother at 18, and along with my husband, and the help of our “village” have raised and continue to raise three incredible young humans. I am also very proud to be able to give back to my community which continues to give so much to me, in working with our youth, giving them support and an outlet through cheer. Being able to support Taos women, some friends, family, in the vulnerable journey of labor and birth, and as they navigate their new role as a mother. It is just as empowering for me as it is for them, and it’s wonderful to be a part of the magic of Taos’ “village” as it goes full circle.

be, but instead be patient, take life as it comes, enjoy the journey of getting to know yourself and appreciate those who love and help you along the way. You have a lot to learn and experience.

women are working full time, taking responsibility for their children’s virtual education, household chores, giving their all to be the best mom, wife, employee, friend, etc. Not an easy thing to do.

How do you create a sane work-life balance?

Who are your real-life heroes?

Sane? My husband (who also works at the hospital as a surgical technologist) and I are fortunate the hospital and our coworkers are supportive of a work-life balance, allowing us to have semi opposite work schedules. We prefer one of us be with our children as much as possible, except for a couple of days a week when we’re blessed to have my mother, Theresa, or my mother-in-law, Marbella Trujillo, help watch our daughters while we are at work.

• My husband, who has completely turned his life around and works tirelessly and endlessly for our family.

As a nurse, I am able to work three 12-hour shifts a week, the majority are weekend days, which gives me four days off during the week for my family and coaching duties.

• All of the essential workers in our community – doctors, nurses, nurse’s aides, housekeepers, pharmacists, grocery store workers, EMS, police – putting themselves and their families at risk to show up for our community, I know that isn’t easy.

My husband works Monday-Friday, and ends his work day in the early afternoon, only to rush home to be with our 2 1/2-year-old, while my 13-year-old and myself rush off to cheer practice Tuesdays-Thursdays. Sundays are family days, a day we are all off together.

What do you think is the biggest issue for women right now?

If possible, what advice would you give your teenage self?

What is the main message you want Taoseños to hear coming out of this pandemic year?

• My grandmother Ernestina “Tita” Pacheco, who is strongest woman I’ve ever met.

What has the COVID-19 pandemic made you be more aware of than ever before? What’s really important in life, time, family, health. All of the little things. How wonderful it is to slow down and enjoy all that we are blessed with.

Navigating career and motherhood. Juggling all of life’s demands during this pandemic while giving our best effort to the many hats that we wear. So many

Be yourself, unapologetically. Don’t rush into what you think or what others think your ideal life should

Do the little things that bring you joy and be present.

• My mom. She is the most selfless person I know. Always giving of herself, of her time, of whatever she possibly can.

, ,

Do things that preserve your mind your peace your health

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JOANN ORTIZ How many years involved in your various endeavors? Of what are you most proud? I taught in the public schools and served as an administrator for 29.5 years, during which time I also was an instructor at the college and university level. I served more than 20 years in the community as a co- founder of several organizations and board member. I now serve as a hospital Auxilian, a Shared Table volunteer and as a deacon in the First Presbyterian Church. I am most proud of the care I provided for almost 200 children and teenagers through CYFD (foster parent), Amigos Unidos (shelter care program) and Casa de Corazon (respite care provider) from 1984-2000; however my most memorable experience was my first foster placement. I provided foster care for a young lady named Kimberly, whom we consider a daughter. We have watched her blossom throughout the years into an amazing mother and professional woman. She resides in Oregon with our son-in-law, Doug, and grandchildren, Kylie and Eric.

If possible, what advice would you give your teenage self? One word – listen. Listen to your parents, your elders and to your heart when you are still and alone. Many of life’s answers come from our parents and elders and what some believe to be our inner voice. I consider it communion with God.

I credit two Taos Municipal Schools Special Education Coordinators for their support: Charlene Gonzales (wife of Sen. Bobby Gonzales) for encouraging me to pilot Sounds In Syllables at Taos Junior High School back in 1990 and the late Jeanelle Livingston for continuing to support me and expand the MLTI-NM training to other educators during the late ’90s and early 2000s. Finally, as a veteran educator with no business background, I want to credit Anwar Kaelin and UNM-Taos’ Small Business Development Center for encouragement and practical support in my purchase of MLTI-NM.

How do you create a sane work-life balance? I am now retired, but while working, I never really did create a balance. I realize that now. I spent too much time at work. I appreciate my husband, Bob, and my family for putting up with my absence in their lives during my career. I never really knew how to do anything in small measure. Still do not. For years, I lived on chocolate and caffeine! Thought I had to get it all done!

What do you think is the biggest issue for women right now? Trying to do it all. Most women have two full-time jobs and now, both jobs are in the same place, at home. Some are also caring for their elders, parents or grandparents. It is too much! We need to reach out to help one another. Years ago, a group called Taos Women Together, came together to host workshops of all kinds for women in our community. I think it is time for another women’s initiative to come together to brainstorm ways in which to raise each other up through supportive efforts of all kinds. There are many incredible women in this community who are already doing this.

Who are your real-life heroes? My number one true-life hero is my mother, who taught me that God’s love never waivers. She is still praying for others and is a beacon of light to so many, even though her eyesight is diminished. She still finds a way to serve others.

Two other real-life heroes are two Taos women, single mothers who sacrificed much through the years, for the sake of their children, while working full time in professional careers. Both friends now have family members for whom they provide care: • Patricia Martinez. She is a professional counselor, former director of Amigos Unidos and the best mother to her children: Todd Gravelle, Darien Fernandez and Ciara Fernandez Fabre; • MaryAnn McCann, a strong and independent woman, a prayer warrior and true Christian. She raised three children: Kelly Bambino, Dr. Rebekah McCann and Clay McCann.

What has the COVID-19 pandemic made you be more aware of than ever before? I appreciate, as many of us Taoseños do, the “hard life” we thought we had as children, growing up with parents and grandparents who made us do what it took to live a good life. We learned how to raise food, prepare it and save it, to build our homes and furnish them, to haul and chop wood to heat our homes, to learn how to do so many things to care for one other, whether it be our blood family or our friends who are like family. There was collaboration amongst the families. When the pandemic hit, we were prepared. So many of us reached out to one another and shared what we had and were able to help others as well.

What is the main message you want Taoseños to hear coming out of this pandemic year?

Our community is capable of becoming more self-sufficient. 30

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I saw evidence of sharing and caring throughout this pandemic. We are good people. We need to listen to and learn from one another. We all possess “gifts” of knowledge in various areas that we can share with one another. What we need, we possess within us, collectively.

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How did you get where you are today? My journey to where I am now, the owner/director of the Multisensory Language Training Institute of NM (MLTI-NM), began with a substitute teaching job I had at Wingate High School outside of Gallup, N.M. in the mid-‘70s. It was there where I first encountered adolescents who desperately wanted to read but lacked the basic skills – they were reading at the second grade level. This was the catalyst that led to my earning a Master’s degree at the University of Arizona where I learned first-hand that some reading delayed students simply had never been taught correctly – and others were truly dyslexic. Years later, after moving to Taos, my interest in the truly dyslexic led me to find Sandra Dillon, the author and founder of MLTI-NM, who had created her Sounds In Syllables approach while teaching for over 20 years for Albuquerque Public Schools. She’s been my mentor ever since. I credit two Taos Municipal Schools Special Education Coordinators for their support: Charlene Gonzales (wife of Sen. Bobby Gonzales) for encouraging me to pilot Sounds In Syllables at Taos Junior High School back in 1990 and the late Jeanelle Livingston for continuing to support me and expand the MLTI-NM training to other educators during the late ’90s and early 2000s. Finally, as a veteran educator with no business background, I want to credit Anwar Kaelin and UNM-Taos’ Small Business Development Center for encouragement and practical support in my purchase of MLTI-NM.

MARY GILROY How many years involved in your various endeavors? Of what are you most proud? I’ve been nationally certified as a dyslexia therapist since 1992, so I’d say that’s when my single-minded commitment to this field really began. I’m probably most proud of my tenacity in looking for answers to why my students in Gallup and Tucson couldn’t read. As a trainer of dyslexia therapists, I continue to see that same tenacity in teachers from all over the state and it gives me hope. They enroll in MLTI training because “nothing else worked’ and they refuse to give up on their students.

If possible, what advice would you give your teenage self? I would tell my teenage self to exercise more – to play outside like I did when I was younger; to take more science courses; and to eat fewer sugary products

How do you create a sane work-life balance?

Who are your real-life heroes?

I have a wonderful husband (who loves to cook), and an extended family of children and siblings who help me think of non-dyslexia topics. I also am surrounded by a strong supportive network of teachers and therapists in Taos who are highly trained and committed.

My early students who never gave up trying despite daily failures and who caused me to search for answers, and then all my dyslexia therapy students these past 30 years who have been willing to work exceptionally hard, and have had the courage to advocate for themselves through school, college and on the job.

What do you think is the biggest issue for women right now? I think for many women, and actually for many people, it’s being taken seriously and being listened to and measured by their knowledge and accomplishments. I think we should all be judged by the “blue book” method my history professors in college used: they read and graded our essays and exams without knowing who we were, what we looked like, how rich or poor we were, etc.

What is the main message you want Taoseños to hear coming out of this pandemic year?

What has the COVID-19 pandemic made you be more aware of than ever before? I probably appreciate Zoom more than anything else. It’s allowed me to train teachers who wouldn’t be able to train in person here in Taos or in Albuquerque. Educators, who live on remote ranches or couldn’t leave home for two weeks for family reasons, were able to train with MLTI last summer and throughout this school year because of Zoom. I’ve also realized that teletherapy can be very successful with our more advanced students. But there’s no substitute for inperson therapy with beginning students.

That the community has worked very hard to educate students despite COVI D

I’ve been impressed to see Taos teachers rise to the challenge of online teaching and learning which for many meant doubling their prep time; to administrators who have made laptops and iPads available to their students; I’ve also been impressed with internet providers who have helped families access more bandwidth; and with families that have risen to the challenges of this school year while still trying to earn a living. I think we’ve all come to appreciate more the strengths of in-person teaching, but we’ve also learned the potential of online learning and teacher-to-teacher sharing involving educators from all over the country.

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How did you get where you are today? It’s truly a mystery as to how I got where I am today. Partly circumstantial, partly perseverance, but ultimately because everyone and every circumstance helped me along the way, whether it was good or bad. Being raised in Latin America was instrumental to my development as an artist, as well as being raised around the world class artists of Taos. My sons were, and still are, instrumental in their support and belief in the creative process. Every situation and experience in life feeds the art, and it’s not all pretty. I’ve been lucky to have some of the best mentors and teachers. I’m a firm believer in angels and their help as well.

MAYE TORRES How many years involved in your various endeavors? Of what are you most proud? I’ve been creating art all my life. My teachers began exhibiting my work in high school, winning several awards. I graduated with a BFA in fine arts from UNM, with a minor in science. My junior year, I studied at Humboldt State University on an honors exchange program. I then apprenticed and worked with artists Larry Bell and Ted Egri. For the past 45 years I have been a full-time artist, and that’s a pretty big accomplishment in itself. My work is in permanent collections throughout the world, including Ethiopia, Germany and Brazil. I’ve been the recipient of three different, “1% for the arts program” through New Mexico Arts. Being a mom and going to Ethiopia, through the “Art in Embassy’s” program, are some of my biggest accomplishments.

If possible, what advice would you give your teenage self? If I could give my teenage self advice I would say, “Art is a really difficult field to navigate, especially for a woman of color. So if you want a really interest-

ing, adventurous, uncertain and difficult life you are choosing the right path. But, if you want a simple, comfortable life … choose something different.”

How do you create a sane work-life balance? There is no such thing as a sane work-life balance. Just prepare for insanity. I don’t know anyone who’s managed to ‘balance’ the two.

What do you think is the biggest issue for women right now? I think the biggest issue facing women today is the fact that women are not taken seriously. The patriarcy has dominated for so long that even women don’t believe their own voices or really support one another. Equality in pay, respect in business and justice in the workforce still today do not exist. The biggest issue for society now, is to hear and respect the very important “voice of the feminine.” To value the female voice is critical to everyone’s survival. If the female voice is continually beaten to a pulp, the families suffer. That’s what we are seeing today.

Who are your real-life heroes? My real life heroes are my sons because they have put up with me for so long. And they continually teach me how to be a better person. And I’m a huge admirer of Amanda Gorman, I’m convinced she’s an angel from another planet and we are truly fortunate to be alive at the same time, to hear her elegant and truthful words. And my real life heroes include all my friends ... because they are just the most amazing people in the world!

What has the COVID-19 pandemic made you be more aware of than ever before? The COVID pandemic has changed the world completely. It has made us aware of our global unity as a living species on this planet and how interconnected we all are. We have lost many loved ones and realize how fragile and precious life is. This little virus, that is unseen, has more power than any politician, priest or banker. It’s made me appreciate life without a mask.

What is the main message you want Taoseños to hear coming out of this pandemic year? Main message? I think if people have more humility, compassion and understanding for one another we can shift in to a place of love, which scientifically is the greatest force in the universe. War and hate are shamelessly promoted in our world, it is time to end that violent nature. People must lose their arrogance and understand we are all on the same planet together, with countless species of animals as well. Maybe, it’s not too late to save our beautiful Blue Planet, maybe ...

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...

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Here’s to Strong Women! may we know them, may we be them, may we raise them.

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How did you get where you are today? I was inspired by the power of education early on. My mother, Tracy Jaramillo, cofounded Anansi Day School when I was 8 years old, and I spent my childhood and adolescence helping in the classroom. I was able to acknowledge first hand, the power of incredible educators and innovative practices that empower children and their families. I suppose I knew I was always destined to be an educator, following in the footsteps of my amazing mother. It was my trip to Reggio Emilia, Italy, my sophomore year at Colorado College, that ignited a passion in profound new ways of viewing both the child and the teacher. Children are strong, capable and competent citizens and education is child-initiated and teacher-framed. I became deeply committed to pursuing the research in Reggioinspired practice. After completing my Master’s in Early Childhood Education Psychology at University of Colorado, and teaching abroad for two years in Europe, Asia and South America, I returned home to Taos. INSPIRE! Bilingual Early Learning Center opened shortly thereafter. I have been truly inspired by the children and their resilient families. I am continually moved by the astounding commitment to children and their families in our small rural community. I am honored to learn with so many child and family advocates through my many collaborations with schools, organizations and agencies within our community.

TAYLOR ETCHEMENDY How many years involved in your various endeavors? Of what are you most proud? I’ve been back in Taos for 14 years working in education. I love a challenge and to think outside the box. The evolution of INSPIRE! represents that thinking. We are committed to evolving our program to meet the needs of our community and piloting new programs to support children and families in comprehensive ways. My work and commitment to children and families extends beyond the walls of the INSPIRE! program. I am deeply committed to community collaboration. I am an active participant in the Paso a Paso Network and a founding member of the Taos Early Childhood Alliance. It is through that work the UNM Taos Residency Program was born. I am proud to have been a part of envisioning how to transform higher education to meet the realities and needs of potential teacher candidates. More than half of the educators at INSPIRE! were parents first who enrolled in the program and are now working toward their degrees in Early Childhood Education. In the same vein of innovative thinking, I am committed to the relationship between behavioral health and education. We have been able to pilot a family navigation program that supports families in a comprehensive way and onsite behavioral health support for both children and their families. Social Emotional Learning and comprehensive family support are the bridge between education and healthy families.

Most recently, INSPIRE! has extended our programming to include school age children from across our county in remote learning pods that also focus on social emotional learning and integrative projectbased education supporting their online schooling platforms. We have also expanded our meal program in support of children and families during the COVID pandemic. We are so grateful for the opportunity to support our community during this extremely difficult time.

profound. The goal of achieving gender parity is absolute and is a prerequisite for peace.

If possible, what advice would you give your teenage self?

• My dad, Greg Jaramillo, is the source of laughter and play.

Play. Connect. Listen deeply. Think creatively. Be reflective. Anything is possible if you work collaboratively and lead with empathy and compassion.

• My husband, Cory Etchemendy, is truly the most patient and supportive man in the world. He humors my big ideas and supports me every step of the way.

How do you create a sane work-life balance?

• My colleagues who fight for a better life for children and families are a true inspiration.

I am always dreaming up new ideas and projects, but in many ways that is what fuels my soul. We live in an incredible place surrounded by incredible people who motivate me daily. Taking time to breathe in the fresh mountain air and spend time with friends and family helps to ground me and inspire me to keep dreaming.

What do you think is the biggest issue for women right now? The progress of women around the world is

Who are your real-life heroes? • My mama, Tracy Jaramillo, and my grandma, Mark Adair, are my truest inspirations, advocates and my very best friends. They breathe life into my mind, body and soul. • My brothers, Ryan and Grady, teach me humility, patience and what it means to love deeply.

• Great friends provide perspective and support.

• Caregivers, parents and teachers are fierce leaders. Children are our most important citizens. They are resilient, joyful and see the potential in the world around them.

What has the COVID-19 pandemic made you be more aware of than ever before? There have been incredible acts of kindness and support for one another all over the world. I have a renewed sense of hope in humanity.

What is the main message you want Taoseños to hear coming out of this pandemic year?

Let’s continue to support one another & uplift each other. 42

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Let’s continue to fight for the well-being of children and their families! Let’s inspire one another to be kind, compassionate and fight for the change we want for our community, our nation and our world.

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How did you get where you are today? My journey really began with my parents, Art and Mark Adair, and their courage to take a risk and begin a new life in Taos. We moved from Illinois to Taos in 1974 when I was a junior in high school. After graduating from college with a degree in Anthropology, my soon-tobe husband, Greg Jaramillo, and I knew Taos was the place we wanted to raise our own family. Like many, we had the task of dreaming up a way to carve out a living in the place we loved. It was with a leap of faith, that I accepted a job at Taos Valley School as a preschool assistant and after-school teacher. I credit my mentor, Jo Carey, for introducing me to the joy and rewards that come with working with young children. I was hooked. Six years and three children later, I had this crazy idea to start a teacher-run school focused on early education. My family was instrumental in supporting my dream and encouraging me to take the leap. Along with co-founders Michele Hunt and Ellary Simms, Anansi Day School opened it’s doors in August 1993. I attribute the initial success and evolution of Anansi to an entire community of dedicated educators,

TRACY JARAMILLO How many years involved in your various endeavors? Of what are you most proud? It’s hard to believe that it has been 38 years. First and foremost, I am proud to have had the opportunity to be a part of so many lives of Taos children and families. Each and everyone have been my greatest teachers. I am proud to be a founding member of the Paso a Paso Network. Formed nearly 20 years ago, the Network worked to bring together community agencies on behalf of young children and families; collaboratively identifying gaps in services; developing a means to address the needs of our community and affect systems change. Some of the many projects to come out of our collective work are: Taos First Steps Home visiting; Enos Garcia Nurturing Center; and most recently the UNM-Taos Teacher Residency Program.

If possible, what advice would you give your teenage self? Believe in yourself and follow your heart. Stay curious. Experience as much of the world as you are able. Don’t be afraid to take a risk. Practice daily reflection. Always remember how to play!

How do you create a sane work-life balance? I don’t know that I am quite there yet, but I am getting closer. Time in nature grounds me. Good friends keep it real. Travel nurtures my adventurous spirit. My family and especially my grandchildren remind me to stay in the moment.

What do you think is the biggest issue for women right now? Equity. Women have never had a greater voice in the world than they do today, yet there is still so much progress to be made. Continuing to empower and inspire the next generation of female leaders will contribute to a healthier world.

Who are your real-life heroes? • Children. They hold infinite potential and are our greatest citizens. It is all of our responsibility to provide the opportunities for their many voices to be heard and then to listen and respond. More specifically, my own children, Ryan, Taylor and Grady. They have been my life’s teacher. I could not be prouder of the adults they have become, each with their unique paths, contributing to a greater good and always remembering to play along the way.

What is the main message you want Taoseños to hear coming out of this pandemic year?

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families and friends. It was a wonderfully creative and inspiring period in my career. After 13 years, I moved on to work as one of the initial consultants and trainers for New Mexico PreK. Again, I had the good fortune to work with amazing women. We traveled the state, supporting early educators in learning and promoting high quality PreK play-based practices. I believe it was as much, if not more of a learning opportunity for me. The shared stories from early educators led to a renewed passion for advocacy on behalf of children, families and the early childhood field. In 2010, I joined UNM-Taos as the director of the Kids’ Campus and faculty member of the Early Childhood Education Dept. I feel fortunate to have had the support and encouragement of the administration to pursue my advocacy efforts. It has been rewarding to “grow” a program again. I am grateful to work alongside the Kids’ Campus staff who are willing to work collaboratively and embrace new ideas and ways of approaching our work with children and families.

• My mother, who was my first teacher and has always been the voice in my head and my greatest advocate. • My daughter Taylor, who has the capacity to dream bigger than I ever imagined, has the inner resources to make the unattainable possible and the words I never quite found. • The many teachers who dedicate their lives to their students’ learning and well-being and persevere despite all obstacles.

What has the COVID-19 pandemic made you be more aware of than ever before? The resilience and resourcefulness of our children, families and teachers. The demands and unimaginable circumstances each have been navigating is astounding. I think the silver lining of the pandemic is perhaps that we have all gained greater perspective and appreciation of one another, have learned to love a little deeper and extend ourselves a little further. Our community has been incredible with so many stepping up to think creatively and work collaboratively on behalf of all.

We are better together.

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SUAZO

PHOTO BY MORGAN TIMMS/TAOS NEWS

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How did you get where you are today? I got to where I am at today because of people who

saw something in me, believed in me and provided opportunities) for me.

I am also where I am at today because of my mother. I seriously would not be where I am today without her. She really pushed me to take part in extracurricular activities in and out of school, which helped me break out of my shell. She has shown me strength and perseverance. She has shown me the importance of education and independence. She is the inspiration behind why I want to help my community, especially our youth. Other people who have helped me, understand me and whom I consider family are: Darryl Birkenfeld, executive director of Ogallala Commons (OC), a internship/youth development program based in Nazareth, Texas; Carnell Chosa from Jemez Pueblo, co-founder and co-director of The Leadership Institute and the Summer Policy Academy at the Santa Fe Indian School; Nathanael Jones, a great friend and consultant currently at Red Willow Center, he has helped me so much in my new role and continues to provide training and development for myself so I can be the best leader/person I can be to help my community. Lastly, our team of employees and interns at Red Willow Center: Blaze, Dallas, Shannon, Jaclyn, Megan, Aidan, Bruce, Jennifer and Bill. I have never worked with such amazing and talented people. I can’t begin to describe the impact they have made on my life and the Center. They show me what it means to live life intentionally and how that can move mountains.

TIANA SUAZO How many years involved in your various endeavors? Of what are you most proud? I think I have been involved in food/food systems since 2014, when I graduated college and was able to come home. I would say I’m proud of everything I have learned since then and how I am able to apply what I know to my work today as executive director of Red Willow Center. I would also say my biggest accomplishment/what I am most proud of is the youth I have been blessed to mentor, Gabriel Romero, Raymond Wilson, Kenneth Antonio, Melina Suazo and Jennifer Kaasa. It has been such an honor to work with them and I am so excited about what their future holds.

If possible, what advice would you give your teenage self? Everything is going to be ok, believe in yourself and surround yourself with people who will support you. Find what makes you happy and what empowers you. You have purpose, you have power.

How do you create a sane work-life balance?

Who are your real-life heroes?

I don’t work on weekends, unless it’s something that helps others. I don’t answer work calls or emails after 5 pm. I have weekly therapy sessions that help me reflect on myself and my work. Hiking and making time for my hobbies is essential. Oh yeah, local retail therapy helps as well.

My mother, Valerie Suazo, and my grandmother, Juanita Martinez. They are the strongest women I know and they inspire me to be the best person I can be, not only for myself but for my community. Alexandra Ocasio-Cortez is also a huge inspiration for me, she is strong, loud and progressive.

What do you think is the biggest issue for women right now?

What has the COVID-19 pandemic made you be more aware of than ever before?

Men and complicit women, the male moderate and unfortunately, ourselves. When we are historically (post colonization) and constantly disempowered we often don’t believe in our abilities and our work. That causes us to hold ourselves back, question ourselves, and believe that we don’t deserve upward mobility. The male moderate who knows the issues women face and doesn’t do anything or speak out about it because it doesn’t directly affect him is an issue. Men and complicit women, I believe, speaks for itself.

I’m more aware of how inadequate so many systems are within our community and how they really haven’t been serving the people even pre-pandemic. The pandemic has made me be even more appreciative of life and farming.

What is the main message you want Taoseños to hear coming out of this pandemic year? I know we want a lot of things to go back to how they were, to be “normal” again. But what is normal? We need to come together as a community, Taos, Taos Pueblo, surrounding villages, to create a community that is inclusive, sustainable and works for us, a community that takes care of one another despite our differences.

We need to redefine normal and its going to take everyone’s effort. 50

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Support women and girls, support the world by Dena Miller

THE UNPRECEDENTED IMPACT of the COVID-19 pandemic on our everyday lives has shone a spotlight on the underlying vulnerability of traditional female roles. Last year, women did three times more unpaid care work than men, world-wide – according to UN Women, the United Nations entity dedicated to gender equality and empowerment of women (un.women.org). The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics alone reported last September that unlike previous downturns which hit working men the hardest, researchers said more women in the U.S. have lost their jobs during the pandemic (bls.gov/opub/ mlr/2020/beyond-bls/covid-19-recession-is-tougher-onwomen.htm). Thankfully, Women Give Taos is a major player in reversing some of these daunting circumstances here in Northern New Mexico. Women Give Taos was founded several years ago as a giving circle, providing grants to local organizations that assist and encourage women and girls to flourish and succeed. Operating under the umbrella of the Taos Community Foundation, Women Give Taos is a regional acknowledgment of countless studies showing that when women and girls thrive, so do communities, countries and the world as a whole.

THRIVE VS. SURVIVE 2020 And 2020 was a year during which the need to support women and girls to help them thrive could not have been more acute.

Even in stable homes the demands on women – caregiving while maintaining work and households – have been critically exacerbated by coronavirus safety practices prohibiting established childcare services, on top of the necessity for home schooling. Many families also face other equally challenging and dangerous situations: increased vulnerability in isolation; food insecurity; and threats of domestic violence or homelessness. Women who find themselves in these circumstances are unable to care for their children or themselves. The donor advisors who comprise Women Give Taos cast their 2020 gifting vote to the DreamTree Project, which received $30,000 in support of its endeavor to create a case manager position focusing on childhood advocacy. “This award was so appreciated,” said DreamTree Deputy Director Stacey McGuire. “It’s amazing how helpful such a gift can be, and how many lives will continue to be positively affected by it.” Upon receiving the grant, an acknowledgement from the organization noted, “the new position will address unmet needs and will support young parents in building parenting life skills, promoting their emotional and physical health and escaping violence. “The Early Childhood Advocate will facilitate young parents and their children in accessing needed services and meeting their developmentally appropriate goals … [and] will bring early childhood expertise to DreamTree Project and connect families to other early childhood specialists in Taos.”

Irrefutable gender poverty gap 52

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UNPRECENDENTED NEEDS ADDRESSED Although Women Give Taos typically awards one annual grant, the unprecedented needs of the year prompted the donor advisors to expand their grant-giving to include other local nonprofits. HEART of Taos and Community Against Violence received awards of $10,000 and $5,000, respectively, enabling each organization to provide hotel shelter and support services to survivors fleeing devastating domestic violence. Taos Whole Community Health received $5,000 to support their low or no-cost primary and integrative care for families in need. The University of New Mexico-Taos was granted $3,000 for a social/emotion support project benefitting parenting skills through the Education and Career Center. Each year, Women Give Taos grants are made possible by the ongoing commitment of the donor advisors, who pledge an annual $1,000 investment in the fund. Pooled with the contributions of the other donor advisors, the giving of one individual becomes significantly magnified and can make an enormous difference in the lives of women and girls in the community. To date, Women Give Taos has awarded over $180,000 in assistance.

in March,” said Taos Community Foundation Director of Community Outreach Helen Forte. “As always, the giving circle is hoping to hear from applicants whose proposals are impactful and transformative, two criteria that we use in assessing the probability of positive outcomes for women and girls.” “The pandemic has caused all of us to think outside of the box,” Forte continued, “and it’s actually been a silver lining. We see more innovation, and we’re excited to see how this plays out in the nonprofit community. We hope organizations are encouraged to think large, to stretch their boundaries and envision big things for the region’s women and girls.” Women Give Taos asks women with power in all its forms – financial, social, leadership, voice, influence and access to networks – to step forward and join in this strategic gifting movement. “Being part of a group of like-minded philanthropic women is, in itself, gratifying,” Forte further noted. “You have a say in how grants are disbursed and then see your donations go to work locally in real and substantive ways. It’s a great feeling.”

IMPACTFUL AND TRANSFORMATIVE “This year we are returning to the protocol of granting one award, and will begin accepting applications later

Right: Lisa O'Brien, Taos Community Foundtion Director, presenitng $30,000 grant to Catherine Hummel, executive director of DreamTree Project at the 2020 Taoseña Awards presentaion.

Taos Community Foundation is located at 115 La Posta Road, Suite A, Taos, NM 87571. To learn more about the foundation, Women Give Taos and other waays you may give, please visit taoscf.org, or call (575) 737-9300.

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Women to watch GRADUATING SENIORS OF TAOS story and photos by Lily Sanborn

A 54

midst the challenges and changes that were brought by this year of COVID-19, the first and foremost aspect that keeps us connected in the community is truly being there for one another.

Everywhere you look people are rising to the challenge to aid our community. With the shutdown, Taos High School seniors’ last year was cancelled and we have been far apart. Even in these troubling times, however, these aspiring seniors have demonstrated

true leadership and have brought acceptance and guidance to their school and their community every step of the way. The goal is to help each other grow, to bring out the best and define who we truly are.

Lily Sanborn is a freelance reporter for Taos News and also a graduating senior of Taos High School, Class of 2021. |

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A Mythic Journey Shamanic spirits, faeries, crystals & Druid Magic unite in a quest.

Eerie events in her haunted hacienda in Taos, NM. force an Irish refugee to acknowledge she is the incarnation of a Celtic Goddess with a daunting destiny. She must discover how to use Elemental energies, Druid magic and a Shaman Guardian to battle a terrifying foe in fantastic adventures within two realities: The Land of Enchantment & The Mythical Celtic Otherworld.

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Young

Women to watch

Marika Gallegos I N F L U E N C E R 56

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I N S P I R A T I O N A L

I N F L U E N C E R

Marika Gallegos M

ARIKA GALLEGOS, a senior and influencer on Taos High School cheerleading team, said “community is the way that our generation is able to be there for each other.” Whether it be on the mats or just in life, community is what binds us “regardless of the differences in communities.” As captain of the Taos Varsity Cheerleading team, Gallegos has taken on a significant role, teaching and inspiring the girls who will follow her, her team and her family. This inspiration and desire to share developed not just from Gallegos alone. She said when she first joined the sport, “one teammate stood out most– Analise Valerio.”

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Those who follow their passions have always inspired Gallegos. “These are my role models inside and outside, showing determination, mental and physical strength, and always trying to put their best foot forward.” Besides teaching her valuable skills and lessons, the sport is a passion in Gallegos’ life. “My passion for cheerleading is surreal,” she said. “Everyone has that one place that can distract them from all of the hardships they face; and stress. All my problems and stress fade away, and for a while I get to clear my mind.” Cheerleading is much more than extracurricular to Gallegos. “Those nine blue cheerleading mats are my place, where I step on them and nothing else in the world matters.”

Cheerleading, and athletics – the role models and coaches – have all influenced her love for it. She will be attending New Mexico State University this fall and the NMSU Cheerleading Program. She aims to “share the love and passion I have for this sport with the generations to come.” It’s all about leaving behind a better community as she follows her own dreams and takes the lessons she learned here wherever she goes. “Taos has inspired me to reach my goals because it gave me the opportunity and role models that I aspire to be.” As she looks forward to her own future, she is reminded of the passion born from the place she loves, walking with her every step of the way. She says it’s about putting your best foot forward, to inspire others and “enjoy the moments.”

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Young

Women to watch

Michelle Montez V 60

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“There is nothing to fear except the persistent refusal to find out the truth, the persistent refusal to analyze the causes of happenings.” Dorothy Celene Thompson JULY 9, 1893 – JAN. 30, 1961

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H O M E T O W N

V A L U E S

Michelle Montez P

ASSION ST MS, from the unexpected. Just as Gallegos found her passion, another senior has found her lifelong devotion. Graduating Taos High School senior Michelle Montez is committed to helping others through doing what she loves most.

“I have lived in Taos my whole life. All of the people and the experiences I have encountered have contributed to my goals,” she says. “It is all the people I love that influence my goals the most. I want to make everyone I care about proud and be the best version of myself for them.”

Alongside her plans of attending the University of New Mexico in Albuquerque to double major in Speech and Hearing Sciences, she will study music, her lifelong love.

To her, the word is community – that confidence and becoming a leader develops from the connections we share.

Montez also plans to take the lessons she has learned from her small hometown and bring it with her wherever she goes.

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“My community is a part of the foundation of who I am becoming,” said Montez. “It’s believing in yourself; to grow into the best leader I can be. Each experience I have had has helped me to grow into

the person I am today. I keep every person who has touched my life very close to my heart as I grow and change.” Along with her passion for music and helping others, Montez said her faith has guided her most. Her religious community and her faith have helped to create the person she is and continues to push her every day. “I want to grow,” said Montez. “I want to stand up for what I believe in and admit when I am wrong. I want to love what I do everyday and do each task with love.”

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Young

Women to watch

Britney Hsu I N N O V A T I O N 64

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A SPECIAL THANK YOU TO OUR 2021 TAOSEÑA AWARDS SPONSORS taos community foundation

For your very generous contribution to our 2nd annual Taoseña awards event, we want to send warm thanks and appreciation and hope you know how much you are valued.

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ADAPTABILITY & INNOVATION

Britney Hsu W

ITHOUT LE D RSHIP, community falls.

“Leadership thrives through adaptability and innovation,” said Britney Hsu, a senior who spent most of her time in Taos High School focusing on academics, seeking to innovate. “My experiences in the community and my school have propelled creative thinking and adaptability as a leader,” said Hsu, has devoted her time to building the medical community, her portfolio and elevated involvement in STEM (science, technology, engineering and mathmatics) in the community. Between achieving first place in the Researched Persuasive Writing and Speaking competition at the 2019 NM Future Health Professionals Conference, and her work with speech and debate allowing her to place third in Original Oratory and third in Program

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Oral Interpretation at the 2021 NM State Speech and Debate Tournament, Hsu has brought extraordinary heights to the high school’s academic community. Now she aims to further advance the medical community. “I’ve witnessed how medical professionals have created lifelong positive change for their patients,” Hsu said. “Interning at a local clinic, I hope to continue their impact and give back.” While Hsu plans and carries out dreams for her future, she looks back on the time spent here. “I have learned new perspectives, made countless friends and spoken about vital societal issues.” As she approaches the upcoming opportunities of the future, she said she is reminded that her passions “inspire me to take initiative, seek new outlets for outreach, and embrace lifelong learning.” She aims to carry her high school achievements with

her as she takes the future into her hands, planning to “become a physician-neuroscientist, assisting patients and researching treatments for neurodegenerative diseases.” Her past work and the creation of community will allow her to bring these skills with her wherever she goes. In Taos, it is all about community. The connection we all share demonstrates our ability to thrive. These young women are just the tip of the iceberg of the extraordinary leaders we have in our community. Even at such a young age, they have demonstrated capabilities to lead and spread inclusivity beyond their years. Immense talent is within every young person. As their senior year comes to an end, these three young women are ready to fully spread their wings and fly on all the support of those they have been impacted by and aspire to become. “This crazy passion of mine inspires me” said Gallegos. “Every day I wake up and want to be better than I was the day before,” added Michelle. “All stemming from the opportunities here that have helped me grow, and above all, to give back,” concluded Hsu, “to be there for each other when we need it most.”

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Taos Woman 2021

Articles inside

Women Give to a deserving few

Jennifer Ortiz

JoAnn Ortiz

Mary Gilroy

Gloria Garcia-Salazar

Taylor Etchemendy

Maye Torres

True grace