Th e Greater Las Cruces Chamber

of Commerce recognized stars from the

community at the 2014 Chamber Choice

Awards and Gala, “Reaching for the Stars,”

Friday, Jan. 17, at the Las Cruces Convention

Center.

Th e magical night began with a VIP re-

ception for sponsors and moved on to a din-

ner reception. Natalie McMillian sang the

national anthem, the Boy Scouts of America

conducted the presentation of the colors and

Pastor Dale Walker led the invocation. In

the 450 attendees, nominees eagerly waited

for the award ceremony.

John McManamen, manager of White

Sands Test Facility, was the guest speaker for

this year’s gala. McManamen refl ected on

the milestones and accomplishments that

the White Sands Test Facility has reached

since it fi rst opened as a temporary facility.

“Although people think NASA is gone,

it is alive and well,” he said.

At the International Space Station, cur-

rent programs to understand commercial

cargo and commercial crews traveling into

space are in progress. Th rough programs

such as these, NASA has an economic im-

pact in the community by providing jobs

and partnerships with contractors such as

Jacob’s Technology. McManamen said he

is excited the space station has been funded

for 10 more years and is looking forward

to boosting projects such as understanding

commercial space fl ights before furthering

travel into space.

Th e awards ceremony kicked off with

New Mexico Senate President Pro Tempore

Mary Kay Papen being recognized as

Citizen of the Year. Papen is the consum-

mate community advocate, and is consistent

with that pursuit. She was unable to attend

because she was in Santa Fe preparing for

the legislative session. She did thank the

crowd via video.

Brian Ormand was recognized as the

Volunteer of the Year for all his work on the

Chamber’s Skill Ready Doña Ana project.

Charissa Paskowski then received the honor

of Conquistadore of the Year for her many

years of support to the Chamber.

Th e theme of the event, “Reaching

For Th e Stars,” was refl ected not only in

McManamen’s topic, but also in the way the

business awards were presented. Th e videos

that preceded each category were artfully

done by the LNG Co. and had an Oscar-

night feel.

Tresco Inc. was awarded the Nonpofi t

of the Year, a fi tting tribute with CEO Pam

Lillibridge set to retire this year. Th e Small

Business of the Year went to Helping Hands

Events Planning and the Large Business

of the Year was presented to Th e Sisbarro

Dealerships, an organization whose owners

give back to the community every year.

Th e Chamber was proud to recognize

Jonathan Boehne as Police Offi cer of the

Year and Lt. Jose Leos as Firefi ghter of the

Year.

Th is year’s Crystal Apple awards went

to Michael Montoya, Principal of the Year;

Mathew Reiter, Teacher of the Year; and

Robert Estrada, Early Career Teacher of the

Year.

Th e Chamber Choice Awards and Gala

was a bittersweet moment for Past-Chair

Leslie Cervantes, as she refl ected on her term

as the chair of the board. She thanked her

fellow board members on a successful term

and expressed her love toward her husband

for his support on her journey. With her fare-

well, she introduced 2014 Chair of the Board

Mike Beckett of COAS Books Inc.

Beckett gave an inspiring speech about

the benefi ts of being a Chamber member

and how it can not only help your business,

but also the community. He highlighted

the mission of the Chamber, advocating for

business, and how the Chamber is striving

to keep the same goals in 2014.

“In 2014, one of the priorities for the

chamber is to advocate for you, to help your

business succeed, which helps us all by in-

creasing the economic base for our commu-

nity,” he said.

His speech ended with an overview of

the restoration of the Armijo house and how

it will not only be the future home of the

Chamber, but how it signifi es the preserva-

tion of the area’s history.

G R E A T E R L A S C R U C E S C H A M B E R O F C O M M E R C E • F E B R U A R Y 2 0 1 4 • W W W . L A S C R U C E S . O R G

the

Business After Hours5:30 p.m. Thursday, Feb. 27

Las Cruces Convention Center Annual awards honors members’ hard work

Chamber reaches for the starsbottom line

President and Chair Columns ...............2Business of the Month ........................3Pro-jobs Scorecard .............................4Military Update ..................................5 Nonprofi t of the Month ......................6Conquistadore Column ......................7Junior Leadership ..............................7Agriculture Column ............................8Small Business of the Month ................9Business After Hours ..........................11Ribbon Cuttings ................................12Leadership Las Cruces .......................12New and Renewing Members ............13Calendar and Statistics .......................14Chamber Briefs .................................15

T A B L E O F C O N T E N T S

The Greater Las Cruces Chamber of Commerce provides more than 50 events and programs each year to promote the growth of area businesses and the economic success of the region.

For the past 60 years, the Chamber has served as the largest and most active business advocacy organization in the Mesilla Valley. In 2010, the Chamber received a four-star accreditation from the U.S. Chamber of Commerce for best practices amongst chambers of commerce.

If you are interested in becoming a member of our growing organization, contact Vice President of Development Troy Tudor at 524-1968 or ttudor@lascruces.org.

G R E A T E R L A S C R U C E S C H A M B E R O F C O M M E R C E

5 0 5 S . M A I N S T . , S U I T E 1 3 4

L A S C R U C E S , N M 8 8 0 0 15 7 5 - 5 2 4 - 1 9 6 8

W W W . L A S C R U C E S . O R G

J O I N T H E C H A M B E R

New Mexico Senate President Pro Tempore Mary Kay Papen was honored as the Greater Las Cruces Chamber of Commerce Citizen of the Year during the 2014 Chamber Choice Awards and Gala Friday, Jan. 17, at the Las Cruces Convention Center. Accepting the award on her behalf is daughter Susan Vescovo, grandson, George Vescovo, and her son-in-law, Greg Smith.

2 • February 2014 • THE BOTTOM LINE

Board Members

bottom linethe PUBLISHER Richard Coltharp

EDITORBeth Sitzler

CONTRIBUTORSPat TaylorStephen L. Wilmeth

DESIGN Rachel Courtney, managerTheresa Montoya Basaldua, art directorRamon GonzalezSteven ParraRafael Torres

DISTRIBUTIONTeresa Tolonen

ADVERTISINGShellie McNabb, managerAmy DuClairClaire FrohsJorge LopezPam Rossi

The Bottom Line, the official publication of the Greater Las Cruces Chamber of Commerce, is a copyrighted publication that is designed, produced and distributed monthly by the Las Cruces Bulletin, 840 N. Telshor Blvd., Suite E, Las Cruces, NM 88011. Content of The Bottom Line is submitted and authorized by the Greater Las Cruces Chamber of Commerce located at 505 S. Main St., Suite 134. Articles and columns in The Bottom Line may not reflect the opinions of the Las Cruces Bulletin. Inquiries regarding editorial content or advertising may be directed to the publisher at 575-524-8061.

Bill AllenPresident/CEO

Troy TudorVice President of Development

Liz BanegasOffice Manager

Cyndi ArmijoBilling & Database Assistant

Rosa BañuelosCommunications Coordinator

Jeanette AmbrizAdministrative Assistant

Chamber Staff

FROM THE CHAIR

Heading northFROM THE PRESIDENT

Super Bowl issues

BILL ALLEN

GREATER LAS CRUCES CHAMBER OF COMMERCE 505 S. Main St., Suite 134 • Las Cruces, NM 88001 • 575-524-1968 • www.lascruces.org

T H E L A S C R U C E S

Bulletin2005 Las Cruces

“Business of the Year”

Chair of the Board Mike Beckett COAS Books

Chair Elect Kelly Duke MountainView Regional Medical

Center

Past Chair Leslie Cervantes Las Cruces Public Schools

Treasurer/Secretary Brandy Darden Century Bank

At Large Member Rico Gonzales El Paso Electric

Membership Services Matt Rush & Events New Mexico Farm & Livestock

Bureau

Governmental Affairs Russell Allen Allen Theatres Inc.

Military Affairs/ Savonne Griffin, chair Aerospace FirstLight Federal Credit Union

Community Stella Shelley, chair Development Shelley Eye Center

Board Members Dr. Janet Green New Mexico State University

Marci Dickerson Dickerson’s Catering

Phillip Rivera Memorial Medical Center

Richard Haas Steve Newby Architects & Associates

Inc.

Rick Jackson American Document Services

Rick Nezzer Sisbarro Buick/GMC Truck

Sabrina Martin Rehabilitation Hospital of Southern

New Mexico

Council of Rick Jackson Conquistadores American Document Services

Legal Counsel John Darden Darden Law Firm

Advisers Ben Rawson Doña Ana County Commission

Davin Lopez Mesilla Valley Economic

Development Alliance

Miguel Silva Las Cruces City Council

Monte Marlin White Sands Missile Range

Stan Rounds Las Cruces Public Schools

By the time this hits the streets, talk about the Super Bowl Sunday, Feb. 2, will be

at a fever pitch. It’s Broncos versus Seahawks in what I hope will be a very entertaining game.

Th ere are many reasons for wanting your team to win, or wanting the other team to lose. Th at’s what sports is all about – as soon as you put up a scoreboard, you realize there’s going to be a winner and a loser.

Many issues we deal with are not that clear cut, but often we talk about them way we talk about sports. We fi nd a way to imbed a “versus” between points of view, setting up for a winner and loser.

Last week, Las Cruces hosted an event of majestic proportions – the Organ Mountains-Desert Peaks national monument forum. It was so big U.S. Secretary of the Interior Sally Jewell, and U.S. Sens. Tom Udall and Martin Heinrich were there to listen to a variety of perspectives on preserving the Organ Mountains. It was so big that there just wasn’t enough space in the banquet room. I look forward to continuing this discussion when the Chamber makes its annual advocacy trip to Washington, D.C., in March.

Everyone was in favor of protecting the Organ Mountains, so why all the hoopla? I think the reason is that we found a way to insert that nasty “versus” word into the discussion. One of the great things about this community is how we collaborate for the betterment of our citizens . I think this could, and should, be an issue agreed upon locally. We don’t need millions of dollars pouring in from outside of the state on a marketing campaign to tell us what we already know. We don’t need bus loads of people from other cities coming here to support something we all believe in.

We need to sit down at a table, get all the points out and come to a conclusion that works for Doña Ana County. We should keep this in mind as other issues such as SunZia Southwest Transmission Projects, the minimum wage and public education come up for discussion.

Oh, and go Broncos!

Bill Allen, President/CEOGreater Las Cruces Chamber of Commerce

2013©

FINANCING AVAILABLE • MEDICARE • MEDICAID • ALL INSURANCE ACCEPTEDRay Bamberg, BC-HIS

At Hear on Earth our clients are our friends. Personal service continues far past the sale of the hearing aids. When your custom built hearing aids arrive, your specialist will sit down with you and teach you how to use the instruments.

As you get comfortable wearing your hearing aids, you may fi nd that some situations sound better than others. Just schedule an appointment with your Hear on Earth specialist and they will adjust your settings to make ALL situations sound as good as possible. Free cleanings are also included with your hearing aid purchase. Regular cleanings keep your hearing aid working correctly as well as prolong the life of the aid.

RINGING IN YOUR EARS?experience relief

The new Audibel A2 Tinnitus device is designed to deliver the relief you need from the ringing in your ears.

A2 Tinnitus

HEAR ON EARTHCall us now for your FREE Hearing Evaluation920 N. Telshor • Las Cruces, NM 88011

Mon.- Fri. 9am-5pm(575) 526-EARS (3277) • 800-950-8816

www.hearonearthnm.com

Come in for your FREE Hearing Screening Today

When you run a small business, it can be tough to

set aside time to talk to your elected offi cials about how their decisions aff ect your livelihood and the livelihood of those you employ.

It’s kind of like voting, where if you don’t vote, you don’t have the right to complain. If you don’t communicate with those making the decisions, how are they going to know what you need?

Every year, the Greater Las Cruces Chamber of Commerce makes a pilgrimage north for its Las Cruces Day in Santa Fe event. Th is event is timed to catch the majority of our elected offi cials who are already there for the legislative session.

We make the trip to let them know we appreciate the time they volunteer to represent us – the legislators are not paid a salary – and to bring forward a list of issues we feel are important to businesses and economic development in southern New Mexico.

Th e face-to-face interaction with Chamber members is a valuable part of their decision-making process, as it gives them “true to life” experiences of what is happening in our communities.

Last year, I saved money to make the trip with other businessmen to communicate issues I felt were important.

Th is year, I will attend as your board chair to represent those who cannot take the time away from their busy schedules. We, as Chamber members, can feel confi dent that those who attend this Feb. 1-3 event are there to advocate on issues that are important to the economic vitality of Las Cruces and the southern New Mexico region.

If you have a particular issue that is important to you, I invite you to sign up for this event, or let us at the Chamber know so we can carry your message as we meet with our elected offi cials.

Mike Beckett, Chair of the BoardGreater Las Cruces Chamber of Commerce

MIKE BECKETT

THE BOTTOM LINE • February 2014 • 3

Barnett’s Las Cruces Harley-Davidson2600 LAKESIDE DRIVE • 575-541-1440 • WWW.BARNETTHARLEYLASCRUCES.COM

BUSINESS OF THE MONTH - FEBRUARY 2014

Greater Las Cruces Chamber of Commerce member Barnett’s Las Cruces Harley-Davidson has been serving Las Cruces since November 2000, when it opened as a secondary store for Barnett Harley Davidson.

In 2004, Barnett’s Las Cruces Harley-Davidson, in existence for 14 years, be-came a stand-alone full Harley-Davidson dealership. Barnett’s mission is to fulfill customers’ dreams and to sell the Harley-Davidson lifestyle.

Barnett’s Las Cruces Harley-Davidson is involved with the community and hosts events throughout the year to help raise funds and awareness. Some events include benefit runs, garage parties for women, boot camps for men, customer workshops, learn-to-ride classes, blood drives and the Salvation Army angel tree toy collec-tor. Not only does Barnett’s Las Cruces Harley-Davidson host events, but it also is proud sponsors of many charitable and community events.

The staff at Barnett’s Las Cruces Harley-Davidson has many plans for the future, but one that they are striving for is to grow the learn-to-ride program, us-ing the new H-D Street 500cc motorcycle. This program is designed to help new rid-ers learn the basics of maneuvering a bike and the importance of safety.

In the classroom, participants will get to know the motorcycle they’ll be riding and learn the basics of rider safety skills. Barnett’s Harley is also working on mar-keting its “first in space” items to the public as well as developing “space trail” tours for groups going to Spaceport America.

“We at Barnett’s Las Cruces Harley-Davidson are so honored to be a part of the groundbreaking events happening at

Spaceport America, where commercial spaceflight is no longer just a dream,” said the company’s website. “On May 20, 2011, we had the privilege of being the first H-D dealer to launch genuine Harley-Davidson merchandise into space, and now we’d like to share our moment in history with you.”

Key individuals to know at Barnett’s include General Manager Kim Barnett-Watters, Parts & Accessories Manager Ricky Esparza, Service Manager Scott Logston and General Merchandise Pat Lopez.

Stop by today to learn more about the wide selection of Harley-Davidson motor-cycles and how Barnett’s Harley-Davidson Las Cruces can help you find your next dream motorcycle.

Ryan Strobbe works on a bike in the Harley-Davidson parts and services department.

Barnett’s Las Cruces Harley-Davidson sells motorcycles, clothing and everything Harley-Davidson. The store also has a parts and services department as well as riding courses and special events.

NOW AVAILABLEIN PRINT & ONLINE

2014 SOUTHWEST NEW MEXICO LEGISLATIVE GUIDE

575.524.8061 • Fax 575.526.4621 • 840 N. Telshor, Suite E, Las Cruces, NM 88011

Commit before

April 30 for 2014

rates

Mission: To fulfill dreams

Motorcycle company holds events for community

4 • February 2014 • THE BOTTOM LINE

The chamber is working to ensure the Mesilla Valley is a pro-jobs environment and will help identify pro-jobs elected

offi cials who are assisting in that goal. Each month, this page will contain the chamber’s pro-jobs scorecard for elected offi cials with voting information on ordinances at the city

and county level.

Pro-jobs scorecard for City of Las Cruces & Doña Ana County elected offi cials

Discussion Item Pro-

Jobs

May

or K

en M

iyagis

him

a

Coun

cillo

r Migu

el S

ilva

May

or P

ro T

em G

reg

Smith

Coun

cillo

r Olga

Ped

roza

Coun

cillo

r Nat

han

Small

Coun

cillo

r Gill

Sorg

Coun

cillo

r Cei

l Lev

atin

o

Com

miss

ione

r Billy

Gar

rett

Com

miss

ione

r Dav

id G

arcia

Com

miss

ione

r Kar

en P

erez

Com

miss

ione

r Way

ne H

anco

ck

Com

miss

ione

r Let

icia

Dua

rte-B

enav

idez

City of Las Cruces Impact Fees (park) N Y N Y N Y - - - - - -City of Las Cruces Impact Fees (rescind roads, drainage) Y Y Y Y Y Y - - - - - -Resolution for Organ Mountains-Desert Peaks National Monument Y Y Y Y Y Y - Y - N - NCity of Las Cruces Impact Fees (public safety) Y N NA Y Y Y - - - - - -Resolution for Expanded Informed Consent Legislation Y Y Y Y Y Y - - - - - -CLC/DAC Support Annual Funding for MVEDA Y Y Y Y Y Y - Y - Y - YDoña Ana County Noise Ordinance - - - - - - - Y - Y - YCity of Las Cruces Security Alarm Ordinance Y NA Y Y Y Y - - - - - -City of Las Cruces Minimum Wage Increase Resolution N N Y Y Y Y -

Y: Yea vote, N: Nay vote, NA: Abstained from vote or not present, -: Vote not heldNote: All future ordinances and resolutions will be reviewed by an independent economist to determine the impact on jobs in the community.

Interior Secretary Sally Jewell, Sens. Tom Udall and Martin Heinrich – thank you for convening a forum on what is obviously a topic that has drawn a great deal of interest.

From the perspective of the Greater Las Cruces Chamber of Commerce, I want to make it clear, fi rst and foremost, that we are in favor of protecting the Organ Mountains. We have not, nor will not, devi-ate from that position.

We currently have 217,000 acres desig-nated as Wilderness Study Area in Doña Ana County. Th at, combined with an area which is consistent with House Resolution 995 would provide protection for more than 250,000 acres. Th at is approximately one-eighth of our total acreage in Doña Ana County.

It’s important to point out that former New Mexico Sens. Jeff Bingaman and Pete Domenici, with 66 combined years

experience, proposed their own versions of wilderness protection for our area that in-cluded the Organ Mountains and many of the key wilderness study areas before leav-ing offi ce. Th ese bills ranged from approxi-mately 265,000 to 300,000 acres, which is close to the acreage I just mentioned.

Today, we are looking at nearly 500,000 acres.

So, how much is enough – and how much is just too much?

Areas and items that are of major con-cern to us and our membership in the pro-posed monument area include:• Th ere are no provisions in S. 1805 for

Bureau of Land Management land releases for the future growth of Las Cruces as Domenici’s original proposed bill addressed. Instead, this bill takes more land away. Less land leads to higher land prices long term, and in our community, where one in four people already live below the U.S. poverty level

and 75 percent of the households make less than $50,000 a year, that is an issue. We are worried about long-term impact on our cost of living and the cost of do-ing business in our community.

• We are also worried about the economic impact on the agriculture and ranching communities, including some proper-ties that go back multiple generations in southern New Mexico. We cannot handle any reduction of our agricultural community and its impact on our al-ready fragile economy.

• We are concerned with S. 1805’s impact on border security and, thereby, the safety of the citizens of our county. Th e fact that the Doña Ana County Sheriff , the Border Sheriff ’s Association and National Assocation of Former Border Patrol Offi cers all oppose this new bill speaks for itself.

• S.1805’s 500,000-acre footprint of more restrictive federal control will have a major impact on our watershed and our ability to maintain and protect our com-

munity from fl ooding, which parts of our county experienced in 2006.I continue to hear and read confl icting

information on the previously mentioned items and, as a worst-case scenario, we need to validate these issues before considering such a permanent solution. Equally impor-tant, these issues such as border security and fl ood control could negatively impact our ability to attract new business to the area regardless of how many available acres there are.

An area of general concern to me as an individual is all the money being spent from outside of New Mexico to drive this change. Th ere are many people here today from other cities and states. One of the great things about this community is how we collaborate for the betterment of our citizens – witnessed by projects such as our early college high schools and Doña Ana County Legislative Coalition. I think this should be an issue agreed upon locally. Perhaps I am just a bit naïve.

No matter which side of the issue you fall on, I think that we all agree on one thing: Let’s fi nd a way to protect our Organ Mountains.

Chamber’s stance on wildernessBorder security, safety are top concerns of organizationBy Bill Allen Chamber president/CEO

THE BOTTOM LINE • February 2014 • 5

6861 Via Campestre, Las Cruces, NM575.523.8641 • www.picachohillscc.com

*Certain restrictions apply. Please call for details.

New seasonal and corporate memberships available, starting at $230 per month.*

YoudeserveUnexpected guests. Family. Craving a home cooked meal.

a Winter HomeJoin in the FUN at Picacho Hills!

Thank Youto theFrom the hardest working people insouthern New Mexico for naming

The 2013 Non-Profi t of the year

1800 Copper Loop, Las Cruces, NM • www.TrescoInc.org • 575-528-5200

Serving Las Cruces since 1968 and White Sands since 1988.

After saying farewell to their director of many years in

November 2013, the White Sands Missile Range Mission

and Installation Contracting Command team welcomed a

new director, Cheryl Rivera, in January.

Rivera, who has 27 years of contracting experience, said

she was groomed for her new role ever since she started at

a GS-2 pay grade. Rivera credits Fort Lewis, Wash., for

teaching her the “contracting trade” when she started there

as a contracting specialist. Since her start in Washington,

Rivera said she has worked with several agencies throughout

her career that will prove valuable when working with the

diverse agencies at WSMR.

“I’ve had just about every job there is in this contract-

ing office,” Rivera said. “I’ve got varied experience, so I don’t

shy away from the (Army Test and Evaluation Command)

world.”

Rivera commutes to WSMR from Fort, Bliss, where she

lives with her husband, 1st Sgt. Emilio Rivera. As a military

spouse, Rivera not only deals with jumping into a new role,

but she has to balance the emotional impact of her hus-

band’s upcoming deployment at the end of the month.

Rivera, originally from Michigan, met her husband when

she was working as an acquisition staff officer for the Army

Europe G4 in Germany. The two have been married for nine

years and have gone through five deployments together.

“Half of me is a very proud military wife, so I wear two

hats,” Rivera said.

Since her start in January, Rivera has seen several

changes occur within the organization. Rivera said the

staff will primarily be civilians, since the soldiers have been

pulled away from their roles here at WSMR. In order to

make up for the loss of soldiers and a drop in staff due to

retirements, Rivera said she is looking into hiring on five

to six new personnel.

Rivera said there are no pressing changes for the con-

tracting office other than a change in the organization as

a whole. According to Rivera, MICC will now be run by

418th Contracting Support Brigade in Fort Sam Houston,

Texas. The command also welcomed a new one star general,

Brig. Gen. Jeffrey Gabbert, who will be visiting the WSMR

Contracting Command.

“I’m excited to be here and work with all of the differ-

ent directorates and activities at White Sands,” Rivera said.

“I’m excited to partner with them and help out and be part

of the team.”

MILITARY

WSMR welcomes new contracting directorCheryl Rivera brings 27 years of experience to baseBy Adriana SalasMissile Ranger Staff Writer

Photo by Adriana SalasCheryl Rivera is the new White Sands Missile Range mission and installation contracting command director. Rivera resides in Fort Bliss and has 27 years of contracting experience.

6 • February 2014 • THE BOTTOM LINE

Mission:The Bridge of Southern New Mexico facilitates collaboration and leverages resources between public and private sectors to support educational excellence and optimize the work force in Doña Ana County. Vision: All students in Doña Ana County graduate with skills to compete in an international work force.

Purpose:Through The Bridge, business

and economic development drive the conversation on education and build support for new solutions and strategies that produce great results across Doña Ana County and in other New Mexico communities. The organization is committed to the mission of facilitating collaboration and leveraging resources between public and private sectors to support educational excellence and optimize the work force of Doña Ana County for the 21st century.

Key goals: • Achieving the highest high school

graduation rate in New Mexico by 2016.

• Optimize career and technical educational opportunities for students to satisfy the needs of business in Doña Ana County.To reach our goals, we are committed

to these strategic objectives: • Support the early college high school

model in Doña Ana County and develop other industry-directed early college high schools throughout the state.

• Increase participation in dual-credit courses for students “at risk” of dropping out.

• Increase co-operative, internship, and mentoring opportunities for students within the business community.

• Advocate and support efforts for a seamless transition between and among Doña Ana County education systems.

• Encourage activities that increase collaboration among educational institutions and private sector partners to leverage and coordinate resources to advance to goals of The Bridge.

• Identify and support efforts known to achieve higher graduation rates.

History: The history of what now operates as a

business-driven, nonprofit collaborative began in 2007 in Doña Ana County with an unprecedented public-private community initiative. Leaders from multiple business sectors, elected county and city officials, Mesilla Valley Economic Development Alliance and chambers of commerce worked in partnership with all levels of the area educational community. The group committed to sit together at the same table to solve the same problem to improve the future for our youth and the community.

Incubated by the Education Committee of the Greater Las Cruces Chamber of Commerce, the work evolved into the Regional Education Initiative. The REI formed The Bridge in 2009 to facilitate collaboration across sectors and to support implementation of best practices that advance education and engage youth in the work force.

Key people to know: Staff:Stacie Allen, President and CEOSherry Reese-Gill, Executive Assistant

Board of Directors:George Ruth, ChairmanAndy Burke, Vice-ChairmanWanda Mattiace, TreasurerStan Rounds, Past Chairman & SecretaryKari MitchellSuzanne Quillen

Events and activities:This January, The Bridge of Southern

New Mexico partnered with The Daniels Fund to award grants totaling more than $400,000 to start new early college high schools at Albuquerque, Carlsbad, Gadsden and Hobbs public schools. The Bridge Board of Directors joined with Daniels Fund leaders and Gov. Susana Martinez for the presentations at Arrowhead Park Early College High School.

In May, Arrowhead Park Early College High School will celebrate the first graduating class. Many of these students will graduate with an associate degree and industry certificate in addition to their high school diploma.

Future plans: • The demonstrated strengths and

economic benefits of dual-credit opportunities for high school students, business mentoring and the early college high school model are evidence that The Bridge is achieving profound results that can be sustained and

replicated throughout New Mexico. • Bridge leaders and their community

partners will continue to demonstrate how business can work hand in hand with education leaders to develop the state’s future work force, entrepreneurs, innovators and leaders.

• Through our partnerships, The Bridge is bringing business and education leaders together to connect theirs visions and to provide leadership, efficiency, trust and quality among our teachers and businesses, resulting in achieving educational success.

• Developing and enhancing current business mentoring programs to connect the students to the work force. Identify and connecting the students to the key foundational skills one must have to be successful.

• Advocating for more support of dual-credit courses offered to high school students. This will create a seamless pipeline from K-20, decrease remediation and increase career technical education skills.

NONPROFIT OF THE MONTH - FEBRUARY 2014

The Bridge of Southern New Mexico3600 ARROWHEAD DRIVE • 575-541-7325 • WWW.THEBRIDGEOFSNM.COM

The Bridge of Southern New Mexico was created in 2007 by the Education Committee of the Greater Las Cruces Chamber of Commerce.

Contact the Las Cruces Bulletin for more information840 N. Telshor, Suite E 575-524-8061 www.lascrucesbulletin.com

Promote your business to every Chamber member AND to every Las Cruces Bulletin Reader• 60,000 + readers• Available in print & online

• Monthly promotions• Great B2B opportunity

THE BOTTOM LINE • February 2014 • 7

KEYTHETO YOUR HEALTH

QUALITY CARE

BEGINS WITH OUR

Memorial Medical Center has been named as one of the nation’s Top Performers on Key Quality Measures® by the Joint Commission, the leading accreditor of health care organizations in America. We are proud to be recognized for achievement on the following measure sets:

Heart Attack • Heart Failure • Pneumonia

2013 Top Performer on Joint Commission Key Quality Measures

MMC is one of only seven hospitals in New Mexico earning the distinction of Top Performer on Key Quality Measures for attaining and sustaining excellence in accountability measure performance. Thanks to our team for a job well done.

First, I would like to send a

great big congratulations

to all the award recipients

during the Chamber’s annual ban-

quet Friday, Jan. 17.

Th e 2014 Chamber Choice

Awards and Gala event was a huge

success, not to mention seeing

friends and meeting new members

of the Chamber was a treat for all.

Th e Conquistadores started

the New Year in grand fashion

with ribbon cuttings, new board

members going to meetings, plan-

ning 2014 events and, of course,

all the fi nal preparation for Las

Cruces Day in Santa Fe.

As always, the time spent in

Santa Fe will be a huge success

and I want to thank all those

who make this annual event

possible. Getting in to speak

with our elected offi cials and

expressing our top issues in Las

Cruces is extremely important

for the growth of our community.

Planning this event takes months

of hard work and coordination

with numerous agencies. Th e

committee members put in

numerous hours coordinating

everything from networking,

helping members display their

products in the Rotunda to the

visit at the Governor’s Mansion.

Th e Conquistadores volunteer

their time, helping ensure

everything runs smoothly, and,

of course, our sponsors are highly

instrumental in the success. My

hat is off to all.

Conquistadores held ribbon cut-

tings for new Chamber businesses

and welcomed two new yellow team

members into our Conquistador

organization: April Tate from

American Document Services and

Sara Zemler with Consolidated

Solar Technologies LLC.

We were also honored to have

Kiel Hoff man of Pioneer Bank

join the ranks of our lifetime

members and welcomed back

Doug Baron of Pioneer Bank af-

ter a leave of absence.

Th e year has just started, but

the good will ambassadors are

busy as always. If you have an

interest in representing your com-

pany or organization, and would

like more information about the

Greater Las Cruces Chamber

and the Conquistadors, call the

Chamber offi ce at 524-1968 and

I promise your questions will be

answered.

Rick Jackson Chair of the Council of

Conquistadores 2014 Greater Las Cruces Chamber

of Commerce

Congratulations are in orderCONQUISTADORE CORNER

Hard work already seen this new year

RICK JACKSON

On Th ursday, Jan. 9, the Junior Leadership group learned all about health care in the Las Cruces community.

Many of the students have an interest in a career in health care and Health Care Day gave them an opportunity to see the options in the city.

Th e day began at the Memorial Medical Center HealthPlex, an outpatient surgery center that also off ers imaging and lab. Students viewed the newest equipment at the HealthPlex, a 64-slice CT scanner that uses X-ray to create images of the body al-lowing physicians to see the heart, blood vessels and other vital organs in detail.

After the CT, they toured the mammo-gram suite and learned about digital mam-mography. Th ey were also able to talk to Radiologist Carmen Metilidi, who spoke about the way medicine has evolved into the

digital age. Th e fi nal part of the HealthPlex tour included a visit to the Operating Room. Students were able to try their hand at minimally invasive laparoscopic surgery, using the camera and operating instruments to pull candy out of a box.

Th e students received a tour of the Rehabilitation and Advanced Care Hospitals of Southern New Mexico. Th e students were given a tour of both facili-ties by Roy Rivas, the director of compli-ance for both facilities. Th e group learned about patient-centered care and participat-ed in an uplifting patient send off , where everyone lined the hallway and clapped to encourage a patient who had just been dis-charged.

Th e group toured the rehab gym and outdoor training facility that is specially built to help patients learn how to walk on

diff erent types of surfaces and inclines.MountainView Regional Medical

Center welcomed the Junior Leadership class for lunch. CEO Denten Park spoke to the students about career opportunities in the health care world. He also spoke about some of the challenges facing the industry due to health care reform and declining re-imbursements. Students were given a tour of the NICU and Mother/Baby Unit. Th ey were also able to see and learn about the DaVinci surgical robot.

Students ended their day at Memorial Medical Center, where they learned about

the cancer program. Director of Oncology Services Lynn Arnold asked the class how many of them had family, friends or loved ones who had been diagnosed with cancer. Every hand in the room went up.

Arnold taught them the diff erence be-tween radiation oncology and medical on-cology, both of which are available at the MMC Cancer Center.

Th e Junior Leadership group received a tour of Ikard Radiation Oncology and was able to see the TomoTh erapy machine, which delivers targeted radiation to the cancer.

Junior Leadership class learns about health careDay takes participants to local institutions

JUNIOR LEADERSHIP LAS CRUCES

The Junior Leadership class visited various area hospitals during Health Care Day Thursday, Jan. 9.

8 • February 2014 • THE BOTTOM LINE

When we arrived in California after graduate school

at New Mexico State University, the heyday of the United

Farm Workers (UFW) was still blazing.

I will always remember the morning, coming up Ashe’s

Alley on the expansive Superior Farming Co. Poso Ranch

in Kern County, hearing the call from the ranch foreman

that someone was in the vineyard brandishing a pistol. My

route of travel would take me directly

there and, without saying, my decision

to proceed was immediately considered.

I was relieved when the next radio dis-

cussion suggested that all vehicular traf-

fi c in the area divert to allow authorities

to handle the situation.

Th e result of that sort of labor un-

rest would have long-lasting impact.

It would change the face of much of

California forever and good – bad or

indiff erent – the course was set toward

large sweeping changes in crop mixes

and technology changes. Th e course to-

ward full automation was accelerated.

History would demonstrate that the

Th ompson Seedless vineyard, where

lives were threatened by someone with

a pistol in a labor-related event that

day, would be converted to machine

harvested juice grape production. Th at

labor demand was eliminated.

Th e same thing would occur in mas-

sive strides toward full automation in nut crops. Th e tech-

nology invented by people, such as Earl Anderson of Jack

Rabbit Systems, changed the whole landscape of harvest-

ing. It continues to this day with these systems – improved

beyond even the expectations of those days – being used in

our local pecan harvest annually.

In fact, many contractors who are immersed in almond

and walnut harvest in California extend their season and

their investments by coming to New Mexico for pecan

harvest. From here, some actually go on eastward as far as

Florida where they are now mechanically harvesting citrus

for juice.

Th e outgrowth of that technology continues to-

day, where automation is completely eliminating labor

requirements in raisin grapes and where thousands of peo-

ple were once employed starting the fi rst day of September

each and every fall. It has long been the standard of forage

and grain harvesting and those technologies set the course

for similar automated approaches in vegetables and some

fruits. Th e great majority of wine and juice grapes are now

mechanically harvested.

As a result, thousands of people no longer fi nd the sea-

sonal employment that once existed. How should society

judge that outcome?

From the perspective of farm management, I certainly

have an opinion. I had to later drive

through the UFW pickets at Del Rey,

Calif., where our company took over a

large integrated fruit operation in 1989.

I remember those days and, simply

because I was management, I was tar-

geted and singled out. Like so many

other farmers thereafter, I pushed hard

to eliminate labor and the massive

parallel confl icts that were created. It

wasn’t the crews in the fi elds and the

interactions with hard working farm

labor that changed my views.

I acquired a huge respect for the

skill and the work ethic of those labor

crews. It was the union hierarchy and

the stewards of oppression that im-

pacted my beliefs and my actions.

Was all the labor strife successful

and helpful? Much of California went

from labor intensity to mechanical and

technology intensity. Labor was elimi-

nated. You make your own decision.

From that massive technology advancement, though,

the next agricultural revolution is almost silently gaining

strength. Th e foundation was laid by the amazing GPS

technology that has further reduced labor demands and set

the course toward complexity management within fi elds.

Th is groundwork technology that is monitoring soil

conditions to actually adjust seeding rates, fertilizer rates,

and even adaptive seed adjustments within the fi eld on the

fl y is space-age worthy.

Add to that the advancement with underground irriga-

tion eff ectiveness, the outcomes are not even yet computed.

What is more, this technology will be tweaked and reap-

plied to other cropping endeavors that will ultimately enjoy

the same gain.

Labor will be further reduced.

So, should we stand and cheer and marvel at what has

transpired, or shall we remain skeptical of the strength of

our system? I’ll cheer the results and respect the gain. If

I was still in farming, I’d be immensely relieved that the

headache of labor is diminishing.

I am no longer there, though, so I can honestly say

there are some things I miss from those days of direct in-

volvement with large crews. I miss the skill sets of those

seasoned crews. I miss seeing the same people year after

year, and I miss the allegiance that was bilateral.

I’ll also submit the system has been put at higher risk

and I’ll suggest you no longer eat the same quality of cer-

tain fruits, but that should be reserved for another column.

Stephen L. Wilmeth is a rancher from southern New Mexico. “It was a good place. It was a glimpse of what we have been promised … Merry Christmas.”

AGRICULTURE

Agricultural advancements: Th e beat continuesBe cautious of what you coerceBy Stephen L. Wilmeth

What are you waiting for? Stop in and see us TODAY! For Life’s Choices, One Source Federal Credit Union! Call TODAY 523-5524 or visit us on the web at www.onesourcefcu.coop*APR is annual percentage rate. Certain restrictions apply. Offer good on approved credit only. Rates and terms subject to change at any time without notice. See credit union for details.

Visit us at our NEW LOCATION

at 1375 E. Boutz!

One Source FCU Property Tax Loans are BACK!Rates as low as 5.25% APR*

Maximum loan amount- $2,500.00!Loan term- 18 months!Now through February 28, 2014!

HAVING TROUBLE PAYING YOUR PROPERTY TAXES THIS YEAR? WELL, ONE SOURCE FEDERAL CREDIT UNION CAN HELP!

www.lascruces.orgFor more information on these businesses, please visit the chamber website and click on the directory.

The outgrowth

of that technology

continues today,

where automation

is completely

eliminating labor

requirements.

THE BOTTOM LINE • February 2014 • 9

Everyone can agree that fl owers

make a great gift for all occasions and

with Valentine’s Day just around the

corner, Greater Las Cruces Chamber of

Commerce member Flowerama is ready

for one of the busiest times of the year.

Owner David Watson said that

although Valentine’s Day is a busy day

and can be quite diffi cult, he appreciates

that customers still turn to Flowerama for

special gifts. Th e fl ower gift shop has been

making special moments memorable for

more than 29 years.

Flowerama’s journey began at its fi rst

location at Mesilla Valley Mall. It opened

on Feb. 1, 1985. After more than 10 years of

service it closed that location in December

1995.

Flowerama’s current location opened its

doors to customers in 1990 and has served

Las Cruces and surrounding areas ever

since.

Owners David and Donna F. Watson’s

mission for Flowerama is to provide Las

Cruces with quality fl oral products and

service at a reasonable price.

Flowerama is a featured fl orest in

Th e Knot, which caters to weddings

and provides bridal bouquets, wedding

ceremony fl owers, fl oral cake decorations

and centerpieces. Flower arrangements

can also be made for other occasions such

as birthdays, anniversaries or just to make

someone smile.

Customers have been enjoying

Flowerama’s beautiful fl owers for many

years and now can also enjoy fruit

bouquets.

Since April 2013, customers can order

these delicious gifts through 1800fl owers.

com and can be picked up at Flowerama.

“Th ere are only about 100 locations in

the United States that off er fruit bouquets

and we are excited to be part of that group,”

Watson said.

Although it is still too early to measure

the success of the new addition, Flowerama

hopes for it to be a big hit.

Flowerama No. 104SMALL BUSINESS OF THE MONTH - FEBRUARY 2014

1300 EL PASEO ROAD • 575-523-6400 • WWW.FLOWERAMAOFLASCRUCES.COM

2840 N. Telshor 575-524-4384

ptsofficesystems.com

High-quality, Reliable, Award-Winning ProductsLocal Service and Support for all Office Environments

CopiersPrinters

Fax MachinesNetworking IT

Print Management ServicesDocument Management Solutions

Making that certain someone feel special There are only

about 100 locations

in the United States

that offer fruit

bouquets and we’re

excited to be a part

of that group.

DAVID WATSON,Flowerama owner

Beginning in 1985, Flowerama was located in the Mesilla Valley Mall before moving to its El Paseo Road location in 1995.

Flowerama offers a wide variety of items to celebrate just about any event, including Valentine’s Day and weddings.

10 • February 2014 • THE BOTTOM LINE

ANNUAL BANQUET

Greater Las Cruces Chamber of Commerce Annual Banquet Keynote Speaker John McManamen, White Sands Test Facility manger, addresses the banquet crowd Friday, Jan. 17, at the Las Cruces Convention Center.

Police Officer of Year

Jonathon Bean is

presented by Sgt. Jaime

Quezada and Chief Jaime

Motoya.

Dawn Starostka, owner of Helping Hands event planning, the Small Business of the Year, holds her award, presented at the Greater Las Cruces Chamber of Commerce gala and awards evening Friday, Jan. 17, at the Las Cruces Convention Center. With her are Richard Coltharp, publisher of the Las Cruces Bulletin, which sponsors the award, Chamber President/CEO Bill Allen and Past-Chair Leslie Cervantes.

Pam Lillibridge accepts the Nonprofit of the Year on behalf of Tresco Inc.

2014 Chamber Chair Mike Beckett gives his closing remarks

Clay Doyle of El Paso Electric Co. with Crystal Apple award honoree Michael Montoya

Chief Travis Brown with Firefighter of the Year Lt. Joe Lias

Allen and Cervantes congratulate Dan Sisbarro and Rick Nezzer for the Large Business of the Year award won by Sisbarro Dealerships.

THE BOTTOM LINE • February 2014 • 11

BUSINESS AFTER HOURS

Troy Stegner, and wife, Angela Potter of Trust Properties, are ready to enjoy Business After Hours Thursday, Jan. 23, at M FIVE.

Mary Beth Reinhart and Don BuckGreater Las Cruces Chamber of Commerce members

enjoy the M FIVE atmosphere during the monthly event.

Martha Lozano-Cuaron, Salua Villani and Elizabeth Martinez of Home Kare Inc. of Doña Ana.

Stephanie Keepers of Accent Real Estate, Christine Logan of New Mexico Economic Development, Bruce and Mary Ball of Consolidated Solar Technologies

12 • February 2014 • THE BOTTOM LINE

RIBBON CUTTINGS

LAS CRUCES FIRE STATION 7 – Jan. 17, 1050 Crawford Blvd. – City Councillor Olga Pedroza, District 3, City Councillor Miguel Silva, District 1, and City Councillor Greg Smith, District 2, hold the proclamations while Fire Chief Travis Brown, City Councillor Nathan Small, District 4, and Mayor Ken Miyagishima cut the ribbon.

THE BRIDGERS GROUP, MERRILL LYNCH – Jan. 10, 425 S. Telshor Blvd., Building C-101 – Senior Vice President/Financial Advisor Jamie Fletcher holds the proclamation while Resident Director/Financial Advisor Paul Bridgers cuts the ribbon.

ENDURING LOVE LLC – Jan. 25, 3050 Roadrunner Parkway, Suite A – Nury Campbell, owner, holds the proclamations while Robert Campbell, owner, cuts the ribbons. BECK TOTAL OFFICE INTERIORS – Jan. 24, 606 W. Amador Ave. – Lori Addison, owner, holds

the proclamation while Account Manager Tara Rothwell-Clark and interior designer and Project Manager Brent Aldridge cut the ribbon.

LEADERSHIP LAS CRUCES 2014

Leadership Las Cruces returnsAnnual program’s classes to begin in March

Participants have submitted their applications and Leadership Las Cruces 2014 is ready to begin in March.

Since 1991, Leadership Las Cruces, a professional de-velopment program sponsored by the Greater Las Cruces

Chamber of Commerce, has graduated hundreds of par-ticipants who have expanded their leadership pursuits. Leadership Las Cruces offers robust classroom and field experiences for community-minded individuals who seek to

enhance their leadership skills and improve our region.Leadership Las Cruces graduates emerge from the

eight-month program better connected and equipped with a practical, in-depth understanding of major community issues and become impassioned about solving them. The program links individuals to the community, opportunities, professional development, mentoring and the Chamber’s support network to help them start or expand their leadership.

The Greater Las Cruces Chamber of Commerce is excited to welcome this year’s applicants and hopes to make it a memorable year.

THE BOTTOM LINE • February 2014 • 13

New MembersAlamobritt LLCPenny Santiago

430-0132

The Bean Cafe of Mesilla LLCKaleigh Jones

642-2062

Enduring Love LLCNury Campbell

405-9480

EXIT Realty Horizons - Elias ElizaldezElias Elizaldez

915-2999

HTM Inc. dba Security Specialty Training

Pete Hampton524-6904

Nutrishop Las CrucesDena Curran

491-6064

Peak Behavioral Health ServicesXavier Alvarez

589-3000 ext. 2580

PC Automated Controls Inc.Daniel Shelton

915-751-0313 109

Accent Real Estate

Marti Wells

All Aboard America

Benji Natividad

Ambercare Home

Health Care

Juanita Chaney

American Document

Services

Rick Jackson

Anna Mae Evans

Anna Mae Evans

Arroyo Medical Supply

Jeff O’Brien

Asombro Institute for

Science Education

Stephanie Bestelmeyer

Austin’s Fine Jewelry

Keith Austin

Boy Scouts of America,

YUCCA Council

Joshua Inguanzo

Bradbury Stamm

Construction

Lawrence Peterson

Casa Mexicana Tile

Martha Orta

COAS Books Inc.

Michael Beckett

D.E. Duggan

Dan Duggan

Darden Law Firm

John Darden

Diersen Charities Inc.Daniel Lee Judiscak

Doña Ana Arts CouncilKathleen Albers

El Caldito Soup KitchenGabe Chavez

Elephant Butte Irrigation District

Gary Esslinger

EXIT Realty Horizons - Monique KellyMonique Kelley

EXIT Realty Horizons - Wanda Arnold Wanda Arnold

First New Mexico Bank of Las Cruces

Sharron Stuart

FirstLight Federal Credit Union -

Lohman AvenueSavonne Griffin

FloweramaDavid Watson

GenCon Corp. Michael Clute

General Mailing & Shipping Systems Inc.

Kristen Briggs

GoodwillAlly Lira

Hacienda RV ResortJenny Clute

Hakes Brothers LLCKimball Hakes

Home Kare Inc. of Doña Ana

Martha Lozano-Cuaron

Hub International Insurance Services

Cathy Hauge

Inn of the Mountain Gods Resort & Casino

Zulema Estrada

Jacobs Technology Inc.Kim Hamilton

Johnston’s True Value Hardware

Larry Brown

Keller Williams - Cosette Casciani-EatonCosette Casciani-Eaton

KTSM TelevisionGary Sotir

L & M Limousine LLCLinda Mullens

Leasing Services Inc.Joan Rawson

LifeSupport MedicalKen Hoeksema

Lightyear Wireless, Independent

RepresentativeJack Barclay

Los Compas CaféOralia Frietze

McCoy’s Building Supply

Juan Burgos

McDonald’s RestaurantMike Lavin

McGinley Construction Inc.Kevin McGinley

Memorial Medical Center

Mandy Leatherwood

Mendez Jewelers & AppraisalsRudy Mendez

Mesilla Valley HospitalRachel Holst

Mesilla Valley KitchenJeff O’Brien

Meson De MesillaCali Szczawinski

MountainView Regional Medical Center

Kelly Duke

Northern Office Products

Judy Silvers

Oasis LP Inc.Michael Black

Park Enterprises LLCMichael Park

Pat Taylor Inc.Pat Taylor

Pioneer BankKiel Hoffman

Principal FinancialMelodee Smith

RE/MAX Classic Realty - Christine TellesChristine Telles

Region II Emergency Medical ServicesManuel Medina

Savoy de MesillaJill Alcron

Schwalm, Martos & Co.Myrle Schwalm

ServiGas/Ikard & Newsom Propane

Lance Ross

Sierra Alta Ranch LLCTom Mobley

Southwest Sport & Spine Center Inc.Denise Campbell

Sports Skills InstituteMarci Dickerson

Steinborn & Associates Real Estate - Ron Bruder

Ron Bruder

Steinborn - Teresa “Teri” Quitmeyer

Teresa “Teri” Quitmeyer

Strategic Information Group

Susie Kimble

The Bair FoundationMartha Dominguez

TopView LeadershipElke Wunderlich

University of PhoenixVanessa Smallpage-

Herrera

VantivJerry Heiskell

Village Inn Pancake House - El PaseoRuth Blankenship

Walmart Supercenter - Valley DriveJames Torres

Wells Fargo N.A. - Telshor Store -

Trudy IsaacksJudith Wetzel

Wienerschnitzel - El PaseoTim Kass

Williams Family Ranches

Dudley Williams

Your Host... New MexicoJoanne Bess

Renewing Members

14 • February 2014 • THE BOTTOM LINE

CHAMBER OF COMMERCE SCHEDULE

COMMITTEE MEETINGS CHAMBER EVENTS

The Greater Las Cruces Chamber of Commerce is the primary advocate for the greater Las Cruces business community, dedicated to

fostering growth and opportunity by focusing on communication, education and participation.

FULFILLING THE COMMUNITY NEED

The following statistics from the past 30 days indicate the number of individuals interested in learning more about the Chamber by visiting the website. Those who have visited the site inquired about relocation

advice as well as the approximate number of member business referrals by Chamber staff members.

12,910people visited the Chamber’s website

3people inquired about relocation

Greater Las Cruces Chamber of Commerce

CHAMBER BY THE NUMBERS

Las Cruces

Quick FactsBUILDING PERMITS

Total YTD 2012

Total YTD 2013

% change

Number of Permits 2,459 2,463 -0.2%Valuation $2,860,206 $2,731,569 4.5%Source: City of Las Cruces - Wednesday, Jan. 22

FEBRUARY 2013Sunday Monday Tuesday Wednesday Thursday Friday Saturday

4 p.m.Conquistador Executive Committee

7:30 a.m.Military Affairs Committee, Mesilla Valley Hospice

9 a.m. Las Cruces Young Professionals Committee

11 a.m.Finance Committee

NoonMember Advisory Committee

8:30 a.m. Junior Leadership Las Cruces

9 a.m. Commercial Space Committee

4 p.m. Issues & Governmental Affairs Committee

4 p.m.Executive Committee

7:30 a.m.Education Committee

11 a.m.Small Business Council Committee

11 a.m.Events & Benefits Committee

11:30 p.m.State of the City Update

4 p.m.Board of Directors Committee

11:30 p.m.Small Business Workshop

5:30 p.m.Business After Hours

1

2 3 4 5 6 7 8

9 10 11 12 13 14 15

16 17 18 21 22 19 20

2423 28 2725 26

2014 Life is Good is coming soon

Contact the Las Cruces Bulletin to reserve your space or for more information

575-524-8061 • 840 N. TELSHOR, SUITE E. WWW.LASCRUCESBULLETIN.COM

THE BOTTOM LINE • February 2014 • 15

Local fi rm takes Eagle Award for Centennial H.S. design

Las Cruces fi rm Dekker/Perich/Sabatini (D/P/S) won 11 awards from NAIOP, the Commercial Real Estate Development Association, including highest honors for Centennial High School and Total Wine & More in Albuquerque.

Judges said the Eagle Award winning Centennial High School, designed by D/P/S in association with ASA Architects, welcomes students, faculty and staff to indoor and outdoor spaces nestled within the natural topography.

Th e design for Total Wine & More also garnered an Eagle Award, presented to the highest achieving projects of each category.

D/P/S received merit awards for the following projects:• Sandia Baptist Church Expansion, Albuquerque• Presbyterian Health Services Española Hospital Patient

Wing Expansion, Española• City of Albuquerque Fire Stations 2 and 7,

Albuquerque• Bicycle Technologies International (BTI), Santa Fe• US Bank Las Cruces, Las Cruces• Earth Spirit/Greetings from NM at the Albuquerque

International Sunport, Albuquerque• Grants-Cibola County Schools Cubero Elementary

School, Cubero• UNM Collaborative Teaching and Learning Building,

Albuquerque• ENMU-Roswell Educational Center, Roswell

D/P/S, with offi ces located in Las Cruces, Albuquerque and Amarillo, Texas, specializes in architecture, interior design, landscape architecture, planning and structural en-gineering. Th e fi rm has a a 50-year portfolio of education, health care, commercial and mixed-used projects.

For more information, visit www.dpsdesign.org or call 505-521-9700.

Dining passport returnsTh e Las Cruces Convention & Visitors Bureau has be-

gun its second annual Ticket to Taste dining passport pro-gram. Intended to encourage visitors and residents to expe-rience new and diff erent restaurants in Las Cruces, Ticket to Taste will end Monday, March 31.

Passports can be picked up at participating restaurants, area hotels and the Convention & Visitors Bureau or down-loaded at the CVB website. To play, take your passport to any of the participating restaurants and, after your meal, have your passport validated by your server. 

Visitors must have a minimum of fi ve stamps or entries to be eligible to win, and Doña Ana County residents must have 15.

Entries will be accepted through 11:50 p.m. March 31, with a random drawing to be conducted on April 1.

Visitors to Las Cruces can win a two-night complimen-tary stay and a $500 gift certifi cate to experience the culi-nary delights of Las Cruces. Doña Ana County residents can win a $750 culinary experience featuring edible prizes and gift certifi cates from participating restaurants.

Completed passports should be returned to the Las Cruces Convention & Visitors Bureau, 211 N. Water St. For more information, visit www.exlorelascruces.com/t2t or call 541-2444.

NM Chile Conference to bring the heat

Th e 2014 New Mexico Chile Conference will be held Tuesday, Feb. 4, at the Hotel Encanto de Las Cruces, 705 S. Telshor Blvd.

A welcome reception will be held from 4 to 6 p.m. Monday, Feb. 3, and the full-day conference starts at 8 a.m. Tuesday, Feb. 4. Th e annual conference is hosted by New Mexico State University’s Chile Pepper Institute and features practical solutions for chile growers, processors

and producers. “Th e New Mexico Chile Conference is a wonderful op-

portunity to learn about the new discoveries in chile pepper research,” said Paul Bosland, NMSU Chile Pepper Institute director and chair of the conference.

“Th e New Mexico Chile Conference is the world’s larg-est conference dedicated to chile peppers, and we are pleased to showcase NMSU’s research discoveries to the world.”

Th e 2014 conference will feature presentations on tech-nological advances as well as research on disease, pest man-agement and drought solutions. Th e latest industry market-ing research will also be addressed.

Guest speaker George Boyhan, an Extension vegetable specialist from the University of Georgia, will present the success of the Vidalia onion industry as a model for the New Mexico chile pepper. Boyhan will share the history and eff orts that resulted in eff ective brand recognition, and provide considerations for chile in New Mexico, Bosland said.Registration for the conference is $105 for individuals and $425 for booth space that includes registration for two people.

Registration costs are higher the day of the conference. Registration can be done by calling 646-3028 or register-ing online at www.chilepepperinstitute.org/events.php. Registration forms also can be printed online and then mailed. Hotel accommodations must be made separately. Special room rates for participants are available at Hotel Encanto de Las Cruces.

For more information about the conference, contact 646-3028 or hotchile@nmsu.edu.

CHAMBER MEMBER BRIEFS

Business with Chamber Members!Do

Broadband| Entertainment | Voice | Cloud | Managed Services

For home or business,Save big time with CenturyLink.Call 575.532.8137Click centurylink.com/nm

Offi ce Records Stored • Paper Shredding • Document Imaging • Document Destruction Computerized Record Tracking • Fast Convenient Delivery & Pick-up • Free Consultation

• Accurate Dependable Service • Free Security Containers •

AM ERICAN DOCUM ENT SERVICES, LLC

Your Full Service Records Management Company

300 A N. 17th Street • 647-0060 • www.adslcnm.com

Paul R. Bridgers, CRPC®, CSNA, CFMGlobal Wealth ManagementVice PresidentResident Director - Financial Advisor

425 S Telshor Blvd C-101Las Cruces, NM 88011

paul_bridgers@ml.com • www.fa.ml.com/bridgersgroupTel: 575.521.5114 • 800.497.3514 • Fax: 505.349.8262Merrill Lynch, Pierce, Fenner & Smith Incorporated

Come and meetDr. Mathew C.

Petersen, D.D.S.

New Patients

Welcome

Complete Solutions for Your Dental Needs

2001 E. Lohman Ave., Suite 121 • 575.405.5097www.lascrucesdentalsolutions.com

IT ALL STARTS WITH A VISIT TO THE LIBRARY!

HOURSMon – Thu

9 a.m. – 8 p.m.

Fri – Sat10 a.m. – 6 p.m.

Sun1 p.m. - 5 p.m.

Closed Sundays in Summer(June - August)

575-528-4005 Reference • library.las-cruces.org200 E. Picacho Ave. • 575-528-4000

Lifelong Learning and Literacy @ BRANIGAN LIBRARY

ENRICHING

MINDS

SUCCESSFUL

PARTNERSHIPS

COMMUNITY VALUES

PATHWAYS TO POSSIBILITIES

16 • February 2014 • THE BOTTOM LINE

PUBLISHERRichard Coltharp, Publisher575-526-4712 richard@lascrucesbulletin.com

CIRCULATIONTeresa Tolonen, Circulation Manager575-680-1841 circulation@lascrucesbulletin.com

ADVERTISINGShellie McNabb, Advertising Manager575-680-1979 shellie@lascrucesbulletin.com

Amy DuClair, Marketing Consultant, HouseHunt575-680-1980 amy@househuntlc.com

Claire Frohs, Marketing Consultant575-680-1844 claire@lascrucesbulletin.com

Jamie Pfannenstiel, Legals/Classifi ed575-524-8065 jamie@lascrucesbulletin.com

Jorge Lopez, Marketing Consultant575-680-1860 jorge@lascrucesbulletin.com

Pam Rossi, Marketing Consultant575-680-1974 pam@lascrucesbulletin.com

NEWSRachel Christiansen, Managing Editor, Health & Well Being575-680-1975 rachelc@lascrucesbulletin.com

Beth Sitzler, Special Sections Editor,575-680-1843 beth@lascrucesbulletin.com

Todd Dickson, News575-680-1983 editor@lascrucesbulletin.com

Zak Hansen, Arts & Entertainment575-680-1958 zak@lascrucesbulletin.com

Alta LeCompte, Business575-680-1840 alta@lascrucesbulletin.com

David Salcido, Homes & Southwest Living, Church575-680-1845 david@lascrucesbulletin.com

PRODUCTION

Theresa Basaldua, Special Sections Manager, Art Director575-680-1982 theresa@lascrucesbulletin.com

Ray Gonzalez, Graphic Designer575-680-1978 ray@lascrucesbulletin.com

Jess Grady, Graphic Designer575-680-1858 jessica@lascrucesbulletin.com

Steven Parra, Graphic Designer575-680-1981 steven@lascrucesbulletin.com

Rafael Torres, Graphic Designer575-680-1976 rafael@lascrucesbulletin.com

Hello, may we help you?

Main Phone 575-524-8061Fax 575-526-4621

840 N. Telshor Blvd. Suite ELas Cruces, NM 88011

Th e staff at the Las Cruces Bulletin has new direct telephone lines. Please take note of the numbers and give us a call when you need us. We’re happy to help serve you.