Silver City Life Winter 2002

Commitment to DevelopmentLINDA KAY JONES

Golden ToesLUCILE IVERSON-SOUTH

New OpeningCIENEGA SPA

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Q U I T E S I M P L Y T H E B E S T !Winter ‘02

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4– SILVER CITYLIFE

Winter ‘02

Becky O’Connor’s photograph ofBear Creek in fall colors is a primeexample of the beauty to be foundin southwest landscapes. BearCreek begins its journey in PinosAltos, flows past O’Connor’sCasitas de Gila Guesthouses andgallery in Gila, NM 30 milesnorthwest of Silver City. Forinformation & reservations call505-535-4455 or toll free 1-877-923-4827.www.casitasdegila.com

About the Cover

30 Out & AboutSNAPSHOT OF LOCAL EVENTS Business, political and social personalities turn out for town’sactivities.

36 Cienega SpaNEW LOCATIONSilver City joins the ranks of personal attention destinationswith the opening of a first class spa and salon.

40 BusinessBRIEFSNew faces in local businesses.

6 Commitment to DevelopmentLINDA KAY JONESShown at home in elegant surroundings, Linda Kay’s commitmentand contribution to the economic development of southwest NewMexico has made a significant difference.

13 New ImageBUSINESSES REMODELEDCreating an attractive and productive atmosphere for clientele andemployees in an existing building requires planning and experthelp.

22 Art & CultureMUSEUMS, THE ARTS, AND ENTERTAINMENTA look at Silver City’s cultural aspects.

26 Golden ToesLUCILE IVERSON-SOUTHReminisces about her adventurous life as a dancer.

http://www.casitasdegila.com

SILVER CITYLIFE – 5

Terri MengesPRESIDENT

& MANAGINGDIRECTOR

Joseph BurgessVICE-PRESIDENT EDITOR-IN-CHIEF

Arlyn CooleySTAFF

ACCOUNTANTJeannette Alvo

SENIOR DESIGNER& PRODUCTION

MANAGERAmy Eaton

Melissa GranadoPamela HuertaDESIGNERS

Ted LynnMANAGING EDITOR

North JohnsonJim MadsenEDITORS

John Dunne-BradyJoseph Burgess

Ted LynnMary Alice MurphyCONTRIBUTING

WRITERSNancy Oliver

VICE PRESIDENTSALES &

MERCHANDISEMary Catherine Meek

ADVERTISING SALES

Joseph BurgessTed Lynn

Mary Alice MurphyMike Ray for MRAC

Becky O’ConnorPHOTOGRAPHYJoseph Burgess

DISTRIBUTIONGraham DoddDATABASE

ADMINISTRATOR

Erin OwensEXECUTIVEASSISTANT

NikkiCREATIVE

CONSULTANT© Zia Publishing Inc.

This issue of Silver City Lifeis copyright under the laws

of the United States ofAmerica. All rights reserved.Reproduction in whole orpart without permission ofthe publisher prohibited.For permission to use anyportion of this publicationemail: All submissions of

editorial or photography areonly accepted without risk to

the publisher for loss ordamage. Every effort was

made to ensure accuracy inthe information provided.The publisher assumes noresponsibility or liability

for errors, changes or omissions.

SPECIAL THANKS TO:Belinda AllredLinda & Harry BrightAlex BrownHarry BurgessMary Jo CallenderNick & Yvonne ChavezJohn & Barbara CountsHenry CwiekaRascal GutierrezRobin & Pam HoganBill HovarterLucile Iverson-SouthJudy JewellNorth JohnsonJohn Paul JonesLinda Kay JonesCindy KendrickSudie KennedyKSCQ RadioTed LynnJim MadsenLinda McArthurFaye & Floyd McCalmontChristy MillerFr. Rod NicholsBecky O’ConnorJohn O’LoughlinJill & Lanny OlsonNorma PiñonLindy PoeHolly RandallJohn RossfeldArlene SchadelSue SchiowitzSilver City Grant CountyEconomic Development(SIGRED)Silver ImagingBetty St. JohnHolly SytchMike TrumbullPatti UngerTom VendrelyRaymond Welborn

Silver City Life is published bi-annually by Zia Publishing Corp.with offices at:

611 N. Hudson Street Silver City, NM 88061 Phone: 505-956-1560Phone: 505-471-0777 Fax: 505-956-1580E-Mail:[email protected] Websites:

Subscriptions: $7.00. Add$2 for subscriptions toCanada or Mexico. $3 forother countries. BackIssues $4.25. Subscriptiontelephone: 505-956-1560POSTMASTER: Sendchange of address to SilverCity Life, 400 N. ArizonaStreet, Silver City, NM88061

SILVER CITYLIFE

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She came to us almost two decades ago fromdeep in the heart of Texas, and brought with hersome special traits that she’s used to help our towngrow and prosper ever since.

Linda Kay Jones has served in the same town longerthan any member of the New Mexico economicdevelopment team, and she is most dedicated to SilverCity and the surrounding counties.

In addition to being a mother of five, grandmother toeight, Linda is forever involved with her adopted family

and friends of Grant, Hidalgo, Luna, and Catroncounties. “This area is really beautiful,” she said relaxingon the enclosed porch of her spacious home in the northpart of town. “It’s truly enchanted. I want our economyhere to continue to expand so our young people will stay,and others will move back. That’s my long-range goal.I’m passionate about this place.”

While nurturing a successful career as a “head hunter,”as they’re called in the executive placement industry, shevisited her parents, Dorothy and Cash Skarda, in SilverCity in 1984. Linda’s reputation preceded her, however.A year earlier, Gene Peterson, Kennecott CopperCompany, Chino Mines Division, industrial relationsmanager, had asked her to do what he thought wasimpossible—-to find a Mexican national woman, whospoke fluent Japanese, to work in a new wire harnesscompany in Juarez. “I’d never let anyone down before,”she said, “and I was determined to find her.” With hardwork, experience, and some luck, Linda did. She calledhim back in four hours with the name of a woman whofit the bill, who’d just returned from Japan and was living

TO DEVELOPMENTCommitment

by Ted Lynn

“I’m passionate about this place.”

Linda Kay Jones


in Palomas. That clinched her reputation in these parts, as aperson who can be counted on to perform, with even the toughestof challenges.

“While in Silver,” Linda continued, “I met with DianneHamilton. We had a great time together, and when I was ready toleave she suggested I just stay and head up Silver City/Grant CountyEconomic Development (SIGRED) and the Chamber ofCommerce.” Soon Linda was interviewed by Chamber andSIGRED board members including Dorothy Blalock and Judy Ward.By the end of that year, this single mother, and two of her fivechildren, moved from Odessa and took over the reins of thoseorganizations for the next seven years.

At first, it was rough going. “We had a small space and no

furniture. Dorothy Blalock was nice enough to share her deskwith me. I was able to use it when she was teaching or atmeetings,” she said with a twinkle in her eyes. As theorganizations expanded under her tutelage, she eventuallyconcluded that each needed its own director. At that timeSIGRED partnered with WNMU to open a Small BusinessDevelopment Center. She became the Executive Director ofSIGRED and the SBDC which continues to serve the four-county area to this day. She married John Paul Jones in 1985.

“Economic development takes both patience andperseverance,” Linda explained. “Persuading a company likeStream International to locate here took about ten years tocreate the right economic environment. It was a real uphillbattle.” The process started with Linda Kay and John Paulfiguring out what impediments New Mexicans faced whentrying to compete with other states for new industry. Theydecided the interpretation of the anti-donation clause of thestate constitution was an obstacle to giving companies anincentive. Second, while states like Wyoming and Texasallowed municipalities to tax themselves to provide funds to

(Previous pages) The elegant living room andexpansive back yard of the Jones homefrequently is utilized for the entertainment oflarge groups. Linda Kay enjoys heraccommodating kitchen.

(Opposite) Linda Kay was instrumental insecuring funding for the Besse-Forward GlobalResource Center.

(Above) Left to right, Grady Pennington, LindaKay Jones, Linda McArthur, Anna Gallegos, FloDow, Judy Ward, and Steve Armendariz

(Left) Twenty pecan pies were quickly baked byLinda Kay for a last minute dinner invitation for agroup of visitors.Ph

oto: Linda Kay Jones


attract business, New Mexico had no such local option provisions.“So, with the help of many local and state officials, as well as

State Representative Murray Ryan (retired), and State Senator BenAltamirano, we were able to pass legislation that enabled localgovernments to raise and spend money to attract business, if theycould show a positive cost-benefit analysis that demonstrated theaction would ultimately benefit their community. That’s how wewere able to attract Stream and create jobs, just as the ChinoMine operation was phasing down.”

Linda now lives in her late mother’s home, which she’s

redecorated and remodeled. Original works by R.C. Gorman,Miguel Martinez, Bill Rane, Greta Christopherson, Cecil Howard,and C.J. Carrolus adorn the walls, while books by JamesMichener, Kahlil Gibran, and others cover small tablesthroughout the expansive oasis. With her economic developmentresponsibilities she often entertains up to 250 people at a time.

Her favorite room. “The kitchen, of course,” she says with hercharacteristic Texas twang. “At a moment’s notice I can havedozens of people drop in, send someone out to cook steaks on thebarbecue while I whip up about 20 pecan pies. I love it!” When


she does manage some time off shealso enjoys fishing, packing into thewilderness, and her newest passion,golf. “I’m not good at it yet, but I’mimproving,” she says with the sameenthusiasm she brings to her career.

Her most recent success is the Besse-Forward Global Resource Center on12th Street in the WNMU complex.“This, too, took many years to geteverything lined up, from federal andstate funding, down to generating themoney to buy furniture. It will houseSIGRED, the Small BusinessDevelopment Center, and theuniversity’s Information TechnologyCenter. The large auditorium andbreakout rooms make it perfect forlocal, state, and international businessconventions to meet. It was a teameffort that brought it here, from ourU.S. Senators, Jeff Bingaman and PeteDomenici, to our state legislators, ourlocal business people, WNMUPresident, Dr. Counts and otheruniversity officials who all chipped inwith their time, expertise, and often,money. They all deserve thanks.”

This Silver City advocate continuesto tout our virtues to state, regional,national, and international leadersalike, with her characteristic passion,patience, and perseverance. That’s thewinning combination Linda KayJones employs, that’s sure to prevail inyears to come. “It’s such a fun placeto live with a university, regionalmedical center, an art community, allkinds of recreation . . . .”

“Economic development takes bothpatience and perseverance.”

(Top Left) The formal dining room of theJones home is utilized for the moreintimate special occasions.

(Left) Linda stands in the auditorium ofthe new Besse-Forward Global ResourceCenter on WNMU Campus.

imaGeNEW

SPRUCING UP AN OUTDATED LOOKOwners continue to build new structures, and remodel or expand existing


Wind CanyonWind CanyonESTATES

Located approximately 5 miles west ofSilver City on Hwy 180 W. bordering theGila National Forest, Wind CanyonEstates boasts breath-taking views --some as far away as Arizona. Enjoy the

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commercial facilities in Silver City despitethe recent downturn in the local andnational economies. (Some, in fact, havethrived for many years.)

In many cases, increasing businessopportunities have encouraged them toexpand. Other new entrepreneurs havechosen our corner of New Mexico tospread their wings.

Why do business owners decide to stayput rather than move into new, largerlocations? Sometimes, the obvious answerto their space problems lies just behind

their facility. Often simply updating theinterior that has served it well suffices.

All owners interviewed agreed that thelocal contractors, decorators and supplierswere helpful and even creative in achievingthe desired end results.

Traditional and southwestern themes fitthe visions of some owners, while othersused color with abandon. Some hadsignatures that helped them design theinterior. Others used interior designers tospruce up an outdated look.

(Above) Elegant dining at the CopperCrest Country Club.(Previous) Warm interiors comfort oncool winter night.

http://www.zianet.com/cber


Harry and Linda Bright, bought thehistoric house at the corner of College andSanta Rita for their arrangement andbusiness office and showroom for BrightFuneral Home. The extra space in thisbuilding enabled them to expand theirexisting facility, almost doubling thecapacity of the chapel and state rooms.

The historic office building was built in1908 and has withstood both fire and earthquake.

Constructed of pressed brick, thebuilding still has retained the originalhardware throughout. Initially built byHugh C. Gilbert as a winter residence forJudge Joseph Thompson of New Jersey,Grant County Sheriff Herbert McGrathbought the house in 1916.

“We purchased everything locally to fixup and furnish the new building,” LindaBright said. “Our customers are here, so wesupport their businesses.”

Location: 902 Santa Rita, 210 W. CollegeInterior: Linda BrightOwners: Harry and Linda Bright

BRIGHT Funeral Home

(Opposite) An elegantly finished and furnished meeting room allowsclients to make important family decisions in an atmosphere ofdignity and respect.

(Top) The color schemes and furnishings utilized in the waiting roomand entry way provide comfort and a soothing presence.

(Above) Attention to detail, even in hallways, contributes to thewarmth of the historic building.


(Top) An inviting and comfortable touch was given to theCopper Crest cocktail lounge.

(Above) Cozy corners abound the renovated Copper CrestCountry Club.

(Opposite) The casual elegance of the dining room contributesto a memorable meal for any occasion.

The 327 members of the Copper CrestCountry Club, incorporated in 1965, areenjoying the comfort of the redesign andupgrade of the upper floor of the buildingand the swimming pool and patio area, saidCindy Kendrick, manager of the nonprofitcorporation. The look now has acontemporary feel befitting the 21st century.

Greg McArthur of McArthur GeneralContracting won the bid to replace theflooring, upgrade the wiring in the building,and install insulation in the ceiling. Withinput from the members, the Board ofDirectors chose EKLEKTIKAS designers toselect colors, fabrics and artwork to enhancethe ambiance.

Jim Madsen of EKLEKTIKAS explained,“As the primary use of the Country Club isfor eating and socializing, our vision was tocreate a casually elegant atmosphere for boththe cocktail lounge and the dining room.”

Location: 720 Fairway DriveInterior: EKLEKTIKASContractor: McArthur General Contracting

COPPER CREST Country Club


Enter the front door of Zia Publishing at its new home onNorth Hudson Street and browse through the colorful offeringsdisplayed throughout the showroom and from its Mountain Spiritcatalog. The eye-catching southwestern theme continuesthroughout the building in the wall coverings and open friendlydesigns of the glassed-in work spaces.

Terri Menges, co-owner of the business with her husband, JoeBurgess, said, “I would like to give sincere thanks to Joe Griswoldfor selling us the building.”

Menges thanked all of the contractors and suppliers whoworked in the remodel. “We have a group of people here in SilverCity who understand deadlines and everything went like

clockwork.” In particular she mentioned Ray Sytch for theaddition of walls and doors, Mike Furgeson for data andtelephone installation, Phil Thornton for painting the entireinterior in record time, Bob Leonard, Stan Gardner and TomVendrely who worked on the air conditioning, Rascal Gutierrezfor adding necessary electrical circuits, The Department of Laborfor supplying temporary moving help, Stephanie Lynn for majorcleaning and Jim Mater for moving us.

Zia publishes regional and city magazines in New Mexico,national publications and catalogs, and offers a full graphic designpackage for business needs.

(Opposite) The two-story lobby area provides an enticing glimpse ofMountain Spirit products.

(Top) Floor and wall schemes were chosen to enhance product displays.

(Left) The second floor area was modified to provide creative graphic designspaces, while first floor changes included a catalog shipping department.

ZIA Publishing

Location: 611 N. HudsonRemodel: Ray Sytch, Holray Construction, Inc.Interior: Phil Thornton, Mountain Hues

Irma Chavez, Kwal PaintRealtor: CENTURY 21, Thompson RealtyElectrical: Tom Vendrely, TMV Electric

Rascal Gutierrez, Rascals ElectricAir Conditioning: Bob Leonard and Stan GardnerTelephones & Data Networking: Mike Furgeson, BrocomOwners: Joseph Burgess, Terri Menges


S I L V E R C I T Y

ART

Santa Fe Opera Weekend at the Galleries Art

Carlos Nunez Band


The San Vicente Artists of Silver City’sbrochure shows a representation of theoriginality and depth of local artists’ works asthe map leads you on self-guided art walks.The Mimbres Region Arts Council treats

both residents and visitors to a feast for allsenses during its premiere visual event,Weekend at the Galleries, on October 11-13.Friday night, a Taste of Wine Gala tickles yourtaste buds at the Shared Blessings Gallery.Artists showcase their art on Saturday andSunday in galleries and individual artiststudios. Saturday night features DannyRhodes and the Messengers at the BuffaloDance Hall on Bullard.October 24-27 offers you the art and culture

of the Mata Ortiz Tour, from Chihuahua.The folk artist series presents Geoff

Muldaur on October 18, Greg Brown on

January 10 and The Buckarettes on March 14in Pinos Altos.At the Fine Arts Center Theater, MRAC

presents classical guitar with the “CarlosNuñez Band” on October 4. Get your ticketsearly for the Christmas show, “HollywoodNutcracker,” on December 5. A cultural dancegroup from Brigham Young University presents“Living Legends” on February 7. “LazerVaudeville,” lasers with acrobatics andjuggling, entertains on February 22.Exhibits in the MRAC Gallery at the Wells

Fargo Bank include “Trading Places,” anexchange of artists between Las Cruces andSilver City, opening October 11 and closing witha reception on November 14. December 4 opensthe Duck Stamp Artists and February 13launches Anderson, Flenniken and Flenniken.February 14, EKLEKTIKAS sponsors “May

A R T & C U L T U R E

Artists Colage


Britt with Love,” a benefit gala for MRAC.Forget the calories on February 15 while youpurchase art and nibble on different varietiesof homemade chocolate confections during“Chocolate Fantasia.”The Community Concerts Association

entertains audiences and educates regionalelementary school students with the NewMexico Symphony on October 2,“Swingerhead” on October 23, “Festival ofFour” on November 15, “Proteus 7” onFebruary 11 and “Dancing on CommonGround” on March 21.Beginning October 7 the McCray Gallery at

WNMU features “Trading Places.” November8 opens the WNMU graduating seniors’exhibit. January 31 brings the MRAC ArtExhibition 2003. On March 7, Bob McCullochopens a photography retrospective.WNMU’s drama department offers “The

Laramie Project” beginning October 15.“Twelfth Night” will perform starting April 4.


Lazer

BYU Living Legends



O P E N I N G SPERFORMANCES & SPECIAL EVENTSOCTOBER• October 2, 7:45 p.m. Community concert Associationpresents, New Mexico Symphony Orchestra at the WNMU Fine Arts Center Theater. Call 538-3785for information.

• October 3-5, 7:45 p.m.-9:45 p.m. National Public Observatory Stars-N-Parks Party at City of Rocks State Park. Contact Johnor Lana Gilkison at 505-527-8386 for information.

• October 4, 7:30 p.m. Carlos Nunez Band. This fivemember Galician ensemble blends Celtic, Latin, flamencoand medieval music, performing on the Galician pipes,drums, bodharan, keyborads, acoustic guitar, bouzoki, fiddle,bass and vocals. WNMU Fine Arts Center Theater. CallMimbres Region Arts Council at 538-2505 for information.

• October 5, 10:00 a.m. - 4:00 p.m. 4th Annual Pinos AltosOctober Fiesta. Call Ed Kirchoff 538-0204 for information.

• October 5, 9:00 a.m. Johnny Banks Memorial Walk. CityHall Annex, Penny Park, WNMU-Old James Stadium, CityMuseum. Contact Pauline Gomez 538-3819 for information.

• October 5, 10:00 a.m. - 7:30 p.m. Light Festival, aninspirational day of fun around the idea of natural livingand spirituality. Healers, readers, lectures, demonstrations,food, merchandise. Place TBA. Go [email protected] or call 538-8956 for information.

• October 11, 5:00 - 7:00 p.m. A Taste of Wine GalaReception. officially kicks off Silver City’s Weekend at theGalleries. It will be held at Shared Blessing Gallery. CallMimbres Region Arts Council at 538-2505 for information.

• October 11-13, Times vary. The 5th annual Weekend atthe Galleries Art Walk is Silver City's premier art show.Thirty galleries participate and there are children'sactivities, music and of course the original fine art,sculpture, pottery, and crafts that are putting Silver City onthe nation's art maps. Call Mimbres Region Arts Council at538-2505 for information.

• October 12, Danny Rodes and the Messengers.Performance at the Buffalo Dance Hall. Call MimbresRegion Arts Council at 538-2505 for information.

• October 18, 7:30 p.m. Geoff Muldar, one of the greatvoices and musical forces to emerge from the folk, blues androck scene in woodstock, NY, Geoff’s immaculate guitarpicking is matched by the rich vocals of his magical voice.Performance at the Opera House in Pinos Altos. CallMimbres Region Arts Council at 538-2505 for information.

Continued on page 32

Vaudeville

mailto:[email protected]


A R T S P R O F I L E

By John Dunne-Brady

The essence of a well-lived life is to dowhat you love. Lucile Iverson-South hasdone just that.Her love is dance, and she has taken hertalents to the pinnacle of the art, dancingwith the likes of Al Jolson, Sophie Tucker,and Ginger Rogers.

Her lifetime of memories and experiences spansmost of the past century, and she continues to addto them during her retirement with husband,Ryder, here in Silver City.

Lucile began her adventures with a rugged cartrip from Minneapolis to San Diego, before pavedroads extended west of Chicago, as the RoaringTwenties began. Her mother, Margaret Hill,encouraged Lucile to develop her talent for dance.“She gave me the unwavering support, practicalencouragement, and loving strength that everychild needs. I’ll always be grateful.”

At the age of eight Lucile made her solo balletdebut in 1920. Four years later she starred in thetraveling “Kiddie Revue” which toured thecountry. Her abilities, experience and reputationcontinued to grow until, at sixteen, she wasrecognized in numerous newspaper reviews as atrue child prodigy.

She began appearing in theater productionsthroughout the United States. She supportedherself during the Great Depression by dancing innight clubs, in Hollywood and in San Francisco.She has appeared in operas and movies, includingLon Chaney’s Phantom of the Opera, and ColleenMoore’s Twinkle Toes.

Lucile opened a dance studio in 1941 in SanDiego. During World War II she produced USOshows in southern California for the soldiers,sailors and marines training for the war in variousmilitary encampments. Her students oftenvolunteered to participate in these events. “I wasjust doing my part, and using my talents, to helpin the war effort,” she said. After the war shecontinued to teach and operate her studio. In1960 she began teaching ballroom dancing andballet at San Diego State University andcontinued there for 18 years.

Lucile met Ryder South in 1954 when he wasone of her students. They maintained a closefriendship for 26 years which finally blossomedinto love. They were married in 1980, in SanDiego, and nine years later, moved to Silver Citywhen they retired. “The mother of a formerstudent of mine suggested that we come here. Wevisited three times. We stayed at the KOAcampground at different times of the year, and wefell in love with the scenery and the gentleseasons,” she said.

Prompted by Ryder, Lucile wrote, ON TOES

OF GOLD: A Story of the Dance and the

Dancer, covering a span of seventy years. The

Lucile Iverson-South

golden toesgoldentoesonon



book is brimming with anecdotes,

adventures, photos, stories and vignettes,

gathered over a rich lifetime. She takes the

reader behind the curtain, into the

backstage world of vaudeville, stage shows,

tap dance, reviews, ballet, acrobatic dance,

nightclubs, large production numbers,

movie and dance studios, and much more.

In addition to her autobiography, there is

Lucile herself: Spry in spirit, forever

tracing in her mind’s eye, every pirouette,

each pas de deux, all of the rehearsals,

performances, and stage presences. “I

danced with the gifts I’d been given, not

for my own benefit, but for the glory of

the one who gives them. Everyone matters.

In our performances over the years, every

prop man, extra, and seamstress working

behind the scenery, or waiting in the

wings, was also a part of the dance. If I did

well, they all did well. The better we were,

the better the show became.”

Lucile continues to teach and dance in

the realm of her heart and soul. “If I could

give advice to the next generation I would

say that hard work is always very

necessary; it is never lost or done in vain.

Most mistakes are not noticed by the

audience, unless the dancer draws

attention to them because of insecurity.

Even the few errors that are noticed are



quickly forgiven and forgotten if the

dancer gets up and quickly goes on with

the show. No one is perfect, but if we

strive for perfection, the grace and

beauty of life will be revealed. There’s

always a choreographer who directs the

show, one who is greater than all our

human endeavors; a director who knows

all of the details, who calls upon each

one of us to be better people, to be all

that we can be. Our job is to trust and

follow his guidance, to sing our songs,

to dance our dances, and to allow

blessings to open and follow.”Lucile dedicated ON TOES OF

GOLD to the memory of her lovingmother, “who made it possible for mydreams to come true.” The book isavailable from Dancebag Publications($18.95, ISBN: 1-57636-113-6) locatedat 3420 Royal Drive, Silver City, NM.88061, phone (505) 388-5651.

(Previous pages) Lucile holds the book sheauthored about her life. She sits in front of thefireplace with husband Ryder South.

(Above) Photos of Lucile in her world of dancecover the hallway of her Silver City home.


2002 BLUES FESTIVAL ATTENDEE

KEVEN McCAULEY, MIKE TRUMBULL, RAYMOND WELBORN, GUY BLACK, BAXTER BLACK

This year has been filled with arts, entertainment,and enjoyment for area residents as well as visitorsfrom all over. The Mimbres Region Arts Council startedoff with a fund-raiser, Chocolate Fantasia, wheresupporters strolled about the historic downtown districtsampling goodies served by merchants like JohnO'Loughlin, and enjoying chats with other patrons.Faye McCalmont, executive director of the councilwas everywhere this year. She presented Ana Eggeand Eliza Gilkyson, who proceeded to fill the BuckhornOpera House with the sound of music as part of the FolkMusic series.April showers never showed up, but patrons ducked

inside anyway, to saunter through the EKLEKTIKASGallery at the invitation of North Johnson and JimMadsen who celebrated their eighth anniversary inSilver City. Some of the folks who joined in thefestivities with Faye and her husband, Floyd, were

Henry Cweika, Holly Sytch,Mary Jo Callender,Christy Miller, Jutta Ortiz, Sudie Kennedy, Jill andLanny Olson, Linda Kay and John Paul Jones, andJane Cunningham. Betty St. John was seen withNorma Piñon, who came all the way from Nuevo CasasGrandes, Mexico to help commemorate the event.Internationally renowned author, Max Evans,

stopped by the Silver City Museum to autograph copiesof his latest book, "Madam Millie." Hundreds lined upalong with Polly Smidt, to see if they recognizedthemselves, friends, or relatives in the biography of theinfamous Silver City bordello owner.Dr. and Mrs. Counts, along with others

welcomed Juan Quezada and the Mata OrtizPotters from Mexico to Cienega Spa and Salon for abenefit dinner and fund raising auction for counciland the WNMU Museum.The Blues Festival over the Memorial Day weekend

drew thousands to hear Howard Glazer and theHarmonic Shah Band, and others from around thecountry. The Acoustic Showcase featured suchperformers as Lisa Otey singing her creations. Coolers,chairs, and tables populated every square inch of GoughPark as lovers of Blues spread their blankets out on thegrass and whiled away the afternoons and eveningslistening to their favorites.

HENRY CWEIKA & HOLLY SYTCH MARY JO CALLENDER, LINDY POE, CHRISTY MILLER

SUE SCHIOWITZ LISA OTEY, FAYE McCALMONT, KATHLEEN WILLIAMSON

2002 BLUES FESTIVALHOWARD GLAZER

HABITAT FOR HUMANITYSAN VICENTE FIESTA 2002

2002 BLUES FESTIVALHARMONICA SHAH BAND

NORMA PIÑON, BETTY ST. JOHN

2002 BLUES FESTIVALKATHLEEN WILLIAMSON

RALPH STANLEY

BILL HOVARTER

LARRY DENNISON & GUITAR WINNER

SAN VICENTE FIESTA DOG SHOW

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ELIZA GILKYSON, FAYE McCALMONT, ANA EGGE

JUDY JEWELL & ARLENE SCHADEL

MAX EVANS & POLLY SMIDT

JUAN QUEZADA & MATA ORTIZ POTTERS

JOHN O’LOUGHLIN AT CHOCOLATE FANTASIA

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NORTH JOHNSON, JUTTA ORTIZ, JANE CUNNINGHAM

DR. & MRS. COUNTS WITH JUAN QUEZADA

JILL & LANNY OLSON, LINDA KAY & JOHN PAUL JONES

BLUES FEST

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FATHER ROD NICHOLS SUDIE KENNEDY, FAYE & FLOYD McCALMONT

Parents and kids gathered at Penny Park topaint linseed oil on exposed wood during thesemiannual refurbishment of the community builtfacility. Sue Schiowitz crawled into the hard-to-get-to spaces with her brush and bucket, whileBill Hovarter climbed his trusty ladder to touchup the higher realms. This park was the venue forentertainment, meetings, and just plain playingaround for children and adults alike. It started halfa decade ago with kids collecting over $10,000 inpennies, and then mushroomed into a park builtwith the sweat equity and contributions of manylocal residents and businesses.Raul Holguin, Danny Legarda and Joseph

Arrellano stand in line at the Political PancakeBreakfast, which gave the public an opportunity tomeet this years political candidates.Baxter and Guy Black, cowboy poets,

entertain Mike Trumbull, Keven McCauley, andRaymond Welborn at the Holiday Inn Express.Habitat for Humanity volunteers come out to

help build a new house for the Higgins familyArlene Schadel and Lynn Janes joined the

MRAC board of directors to help map out thegoals for the next few years of this valuableorganization that's dedicated to bringing therichness of the arts to southwestern New Mexico.



• October 20. 4:00 p.m. International Film Society presentsThe Piano Teacher . Real West Cinema, for informationcall 538-5142.

• October 23. 7:00 p.m Community concert Associationpresents, Swingerhead, WNMU Fine Arts CenterTheater. Call 538-3785 for information.

• October 24-27. Arts andCultural Tour of NorthernChihuahua, Mata Ortiz. MRACand WNMU Museum. CallMimbres Region Arts Council at538-2505 for information.

• October 26, 2:00 p.m. and 7:00 p.m. Mariachi Concert,Reyna de los Angeles. WNMU Fine Arts CenterTheater. Contact St. Vincent de Paul Church forinformation, 538-9373.

NOVEMBER

• November 3. 4:00 p.m. International Film Societypresents Sunshine State. Real West Cinema, forinformation call 538-5142.

• November 14, 4:00 p.m. - 6:00 p.m. MRAC GalleryExhibit, Reception. Trading Places, Silver City, LasCruces Artist Exchange. Call Mimbres Region Arts Councilat 538-2505 for information.

• November 15, 7:30 p.m. Community Concert Associationpresents, Festival of Four. WNMU Fine Arts CenterTheater, call 538-3785 for information.

• November 30, 7:00 p.m. The 12th annual LightedChristmas Parade features lighted floats and uniquecostumes on Bullard and Broadway Streets. Call534-6344 for information.

DECEMBER

• December 1, 4:00 p.m. International Film Societypresents Nine Queens at Real West Cinema. Call 538-5142 for information.

• December 4, 4:00 - 6:00 p.m. MRAC Gallery Exhibit,Reception featuring Duck Stamp Artist. Show will runNovember 19 thru January 30. Call Mimbres Region ArtsCouncil at 538-2505 for information.

• December 5, 7:30 p.m.Hollywood Nutcracker, abeloved holiday classic ispresented “Hollywood Style” withdazzling new costumes, sets andchoreography inspired from 1930’sHollywood. WNMU Fine ArtsCenter Theater. Call MimbresRegion Arts Council at 538-2505for information.

• December 4-8. Annual Festival of Trees, WNMU OldCooler. Call 538-3785 for information.

• December 11. Holiday Homes on Tour. Time to beannounced. Call Mimbres Region Arts Council at 538-2505for information.

• December 19, 6:00 - 9:00 p.m. A Victorian ChristmasEvening, a celebration in Victorian style, will be held atthe H.B. Ailman House (Silver City Museum). Call538-5921 for information.

JANUARY

• January 10, 7:30 p.m. With a powerful compelling voice,Greg Brown often moves his audiences with the warmthand humor of his performance and the unpretentious clarityof his musical vision. Performance at the Opera House inPinos Altos. Call Mimbres Region Arts Council at 538-2505for information.

• January 19, 4:00 p.m. International Film Society presentsSkins at Real West Cinema. Call 538-5142 forinformation.

• January 26, Medieval and Renaissance Music performedby Jay Hammel . Call 538-3785 for information.

O P E N I N G SPERFORMANCES & SPECIAL EVENTS

505-388-41561216 North Bennett Street • Silver City, NM 88061

• A Professional Quality, ProfessionallyStaffed Gymnasium

• Totally New, Purpose-Built Gymnasium

• Large Aerobics Area “The GymnasiumAerobics by Irma”

• Open 5am to 9pm EVERYDAY

continued from page 25


FEBRUARY

• February 7, 7:30 p.m. BYU LivingLegends. A 35 member dance troupecelebrates the native cultural heritage ofNorth and South America and the SouthPacific in a vibrant spectacle of energy,music costume and dance. Performancewill be held at the WNMU Fine ArtsCenter. Call Mimbres Region Arts Councilat 538-2505 for information.

• February 9, 4:00 p.m. International Film Society presents ABC Africa at Real West Cinema. Call 538-5142 for information.

• February 11, 7:30 p.m. Community Concert Associationspresents, Proteus 7. Performance will be held at the WNMUFine Arts Center Theater.Call 538-3785 for information.

• February 13, MRAC Gallery Exhibit, Reception featuringAnderson Flenniken and Flenniken. Show will runFebruary thru March. Call Mimbres Region Arts Council at538-2505 for information.

• February 14, 6:00 p.m. - 9:00 p.m. “May Britt withLove” benefit at EKLEKTIKAS. Call Mimbres Region ArtsCouncil at 538-2505 for information.

• February 15, 5:00 p.m. The Mimbres Region Arts Councilhosts Chocolate Fantasia. A ticket allow visitors tosample the work of expert chocolatiers while viewing theart at participating galleries. Call Mimbres Region ArtsCouncil at 538-2505 for information.

• February 22, 7:30 p.m. Laser Vaudeville, combininghigh-tech laser magic with the traditional arts of vaudeville,juggling, acrobatics and comedy. Performance will be held atthe WNMU Fine Arts Center Theater. Call MimbresRegion Arts Council at 538-2505 for information.

• February 23, 4:00 p.m. International Film Societypresents Satin Rough at Real West Cinema. Call 538-5142 for information.

MARCH

• March 14, 7:30 p.m. The Buckarettes. Wistful cowgirlharmonies, deft musicianship, swingin’ hips, outbursts of cornyjokes, spunky rhythms and a great selection of songs with awestern twang characterize this 4 member group. Performanceat the Opera House in Pinos Altos. Call Mimbres RegionArts Council at 538-2505 for information.

• March 20, 7:00 p.m. International Film Society presents TheHollywood Spin: Film Adaptations of New MexicoNovels at WNMU Campus. Call 538-5142 for information.

• March 21, 7:30 p.m. Community Concert Associationpresents, Dancing on Common Ground. Call 538-5142 forinformation. Performance at the WNMU Fine Arts CenterTheater. Call 538-3785 for information.

• March 23, 4:00 p.m. International Film Society presentsThe Hi-Lo Country at the Real West Cinema. Call 538-5142for information.

APRIL

• April 3, MRAC Gallery Exhibit, Reception featuring HarryBenjamin. Show will run April - May. Call MimbresRegion Arts Council at 538-2505 for information.

• April 12, 7:30 p.m. Santa Fe Opera,Artist Apprentice Tour. Every yearoutstanding Opera apprenticesrepresent the Santa Fe Opera aroundthe state performing classic pieces forrural communities and schools.Performance at the Cobre PerformingArts Theater. Call Mimbres Region ArtsCouncil at 538-2505 for information.

• April 18, 7:30 p.m. Josh Bogin. Specializing in thetraditional folk music of Woody Guthrie, Pete Seeger andLeadbelly, among others, Josh has a special connectionwith his audience. Performance at the Opera House inPinos Altos. Call Mimbres Region Arts Council at 538-2505for information.

• April 30 - May 4, 17th Annual Holiday Inn ExpressTour of the Gila. Call 538-3785 for information.


Holly Sytch recently built ‘à la mode’,a ladies’ clothing store, on the onlyvacant lot on Bullard Street. “It’s thefirst new building downtown in about60 years. The availability of on-siteparking helped me make that decision,”Sytch said.

Her husband, Ray, owner of HolrayConstruction Inc., built the structure inkeeping with the architecture of SilverCity’s historic district. Holly decoratedthe interior with art from her

grandmother’s house and posters of callalilies, her signature.

Always interested in clothes, Hollymade plans for her boutique soon aftershe left her teaching position at La PlataMiddle School.

“I carry a large variety of clothes in anaffordable price range that still offersquality,” she said. The trendy clothing,career clothes and plus sizes, as well asjeans for the younger set, invite you totry them on.

á la modeá la modefine fashions etc.

Petite to Plus Sizes

By Mary Alice Murphy

704 North Bullard • Silver City, NM 88061505.388.2474 • 505.388.2484 (fax)

The wide veranda of Ciénega Spa, Salon and Gallery invites

residents and tourists to relax in an Adirondack chair and sip a cup

of herbal tea as they gaze out over the gardens and the downtown

historic district of Silver City.

Step through the welcoming door andenter a calmer, slower time. Sink into thecouch in the waiting room and savor theoriginal woodwork and tiled fireplace ofthis inviting retreat. The scent of herbsand flowers in beauty pampering productswafts through the air.

Follow your spa therapist and enter the“quiet zone,” where deep blues and thesound of tranquil fountains lure you intopeace. Revel in the sensation of touchwhile the therapist kneads your back andlegs. When the massage reaches your scalpand neck, you experience total serenity.

Return time and again for Ciénega’ssignature package: Mi Sueño (My Dream).For hours your body and face are polished,moisturized, and massaged. All tensionevaporates with the immersion in Mexicangolden mud mixed with Mata Ortiz clayand the essential oils of eucalyptus andsage. After a shampoo and styling, return

to the veranda or to your luxuriousdestination suite to eat a tasty snack.

Robin Hogan and his wife, Pam, alongwith Mari King, are co-owners of Ciénega.Originally built in 1906 by TheodoreCarter, who started the Tyrone coppermine, the building has been a residenceseveral times, as well as a bed and breakfastand a medical clinic.

According to Robin, “articles inmagazines have touted how salons and spasin San Francisco, Atlanta and Los Angeleswere the first to have art galleries in theirfacilities. We were already doing it here in

our old building, Mia Salon and PuebloGallery.” Between seven and ten localartists show their work in the gallery.

The business moved into their newfacility in March. “We were at full capacityat the other salon. With the help of FirstNew Mexico Bank, SIGRED and theSmall Business Development Center in Las

By Mary Alice Murphy


(Above) Historic tile on reception fireplace.(Bottom Left) Massage therapy at Ciénega.(Bottom Middle) Yoga classes for mind and body.(Bottom Right) Veranda overlooking gardens.Opposite(Top Left) Buena Vista Suite(Bottom Left) Quiet room at Ciénega(Top Right) Hibiscus on veranda(Middle Right) Bedroom, Buena Vista style(Bottom Right) Stylish work station


Cruces we acquired what is known as the Carter House,”Robin said.

An electrical contractor was utilized, but the ownersand staff completed most of the work on the building.“We tried to keep the colors traditional Victorian andSouthwest,” Robin said. No structural changes were madeto the house.

The spa industry has grown rapidly during the lastdecade and, of the ten top spas, eight are in Arizona.Santa Fe, Taos and Albuquerque also have these havens.“Ours in Silver City fits into the spa belt, will helptourism, and will promote our healthy lifestyle,” Robinadded. “Our spa fills in what was missing in southernNew Mexico for tourists and for retiree’s who move herefrom areas where they enjoyed upscale salons and spas.”

The spa staff includes Laurie Larson, Marcy Williams,Renee Murillo, Sandy Steinman, Diane Grant and her yogastudio on the lower floor and several Life Quest employees.

For information on any of the services provided, pleasecall 534-1600.

They’re building a website to bring in new customersand keep the current ones informed. Please visitwww.cienegaspasalon.com for more information.

(Top Left) Mari King styles client.(Middle) Room with a view.(Left) Robin puts the finishing touches on client.(Above) Pamela and Robin Hogan share a spa pedicure.

http://www.cienegaspasalon.com


HARRY BURGESSCOUNTYMANAGERGRANT COUNTYThis Carlsbad nativevacationed in the SilverCity area with his wife,Jackie, and their familyseveral times beforebeing selected for hiscurrent position earlythis year. Taking over the financially strappedcounty has been a challenge, “but we’vealready turned the corner,” he said. “I stillhave concerns, but I’m confident we canmaintain our services to the communitydespite declining tax revenues.” He plans towork closely with the municipalities in thecounty to get a “bigger bang for our buck.”

ALEX BROWNTOWN MANAGER& DIRECTOR OFFINANCESILVER CITYAfter discussions withthe Town Council,Alex agreed last fall toassume the position ofTown Manager whileretaining his

responsibilities as Finance Director. Thatmove saved the taxpayers thousands. “I loveSilver City,” the ‘85 Cobre High Schoolgraduate said, “It’s always been home. I wantmy four kids to grow up in our close-knitcommunity as I did. There’s no better place.”Alex earned his Bachelors of BusinessAdministration from WNMU and has beenthe Finance Director for two years.

PATTI UNGERADMINISTRATIVE ASSISTANTMRACPatti returns to thearts council after ayear’s absence, sinceworking there forthree years prior,beginning in 1998. “Ireally believe in this organization,” she saidfrom the MRAC office in Wells Fargo Bankbuilding. “It makes an importantcontribution to our community, especially thearts and music in the schools. Students learnmuch more than they realize in thosesessions.” Patti is the editor of “True Tales,” ahistoric compilation of articles from the SilverCity Enterprise newspaper from 1882through 1883. She plans a second editioncovering later years, “as soon as I completemy research.”

BUSINESS BRIEFS


HOLLEY RANDALLPUBLICRELATIONSCOORDINATORGILA REGIONALMEDICALCENTERTo begin her seconddecade in the SilverCity area, Holleyhas assumed a very

visible position at our regional 68 bedhospital. “I’m very pleased with the qualityof people here,” she said, “and the servicesprovided by the medical center. It’s a valuableasset to the people of southwest NewMexico.” In addition to being the lastcounty-owned hospital in the state, Holleysaid the center is also the first in the NewMexico to begin using the world’s firstgantry-free gamma camera, called theSkylight. “We’re at the forefront of medicaladvances, and patient care,” she added.

ARLENE SCHADELDIRECTOR OFMARKETINGFIRST NEWMEXICO BANKAfter 15 years inradio, Arlene is nowin the world ofmarketing. “Thepeople here at thisindependent bank are very friendly andprofessional, and feel it’s their civic obligationto support their community.” Arlene isserving her second term on the board ofdirectors of the Mimbres Region ArtsCouncil. She also serves on the marketingcommittee of the Silver City/Grant CountyChamber of Commerce, is a member of theWNMU Alumni Association and is involvedwith Southwest Advocates for Kids. Arlene isan acrylic portrait artist.

JOHN ROSSFELDCHIEFEXECUTIVEOFFICERGILA REGIONALMEDICALCENTERJohn Rossfeld tookover duties at the 68bed Gila RegionalMedical Center onJuly 1. Rossfeldcame here from the

Salt Lake Regional Medical Center. “I have atwo-fold goal: To maintain and build uponthe quality care and services and to provideadditional services that meet our growingcommunity’s needs,” Rossfeld said. “This is amuch bigger facility than its size, in terms ofwhat it’s providing for the community. It’s atop-notch medical center.”


Stream International set anemployment target to hit bythis, the beginning of its thirdyear of operation in Silver City.It has exceeded allexpectations, employing 50percent more than promised,using every inch of the 65,000square feet of the former Wal-Mart building on Highway180E. Skilled specialistshandle more than 20,000customer care calls daily forfive major corporate clients.The Silver City Town Council

voted in 2000 to reimbursethe company for rent for thefirst five years of operationshould the company meetemployment benchmarks. Itexceeded each year’s goal todate. People do not have tobe computer savvy when theyapply for a job there. Streamhas teamed up with WesternNew Mexico University toconduct classes to upgrade theskills of new employees sothey can be effective, virtuallyimmediately, upon completionof their initial education.

Stream BeatsPROJECTIONS

by Ted Lynn


LETTER from the

EDITORWith the help of local

businesses, organizations, a

wonderful community and an

outstanding staff, Zia Publishing

has achieved two milestones, which

include a new business location

and a fresh approach to editorial.

With the success of our

Mountain Spirit Catalog,

additional room was needed for

product shipping and the display

of retail items. The new location

at 611 North Hudson Street

affords us the flexibility essential

to our continued growth. Terri

and I hope you will stop by and

browse through our collection of

southwest household and personal

items that have gained a foothold

on a national level.

We are pleased to announce

that this issue of Silver City Life

features the efforts of local

writers, under the able

coordination and direction of Ted

Lynn. It is exciting for us to

finally be in a position to tap this

pool of talent, and I think you

will be impressed with the results.

Let us know your thoughts about

this issue and future issues so that

Silver City Life maintains its

status as the best small town

publication in the Southwest.

Joe BurgessVice-President

Silver City Life Winter 2002

Documents

Transcript of Silver City Life Winter 2002