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Letter from the Editor
As a member of the Women’s Intercultural Center (WInC) family, I want to express my deepest gratitude for the incredible community that surrounds us. Life frequently brings heavy storms, yet we learn that we never have to weather them alone. When you are part of a community that walks with you, finding your footing and watching the sun break through is infinitely sweeter.
I’ve learned that, for us, finding that peace is a group effort, often facilitated by shared creative outlets. We find strength in the hearts, the art, and the personal journeys shared by so many talented people. This support network allows us to truly 'be' in the present moment, experiencing the relief and joy of a calming storm, together.
I want to thank our amazing participants and volunteers for always sharing their hearts and their stories. When the waves finally stop crashing as hard, we are grateful for the WInC community that helps us all witness the beautiful colors of a sunset and feel the relief of knowing we survived the storm.
Mary Carter
Editor & Executive Director
Women’s Intercultural Center
Fueled by Care
Preparations were in full swing at the Women's Intercultural Center as the team readied everything for the visiting Creighton University students. Schedules were being coordinated, rooms were being arranged, and every detail was being thoughtfully put into place. As the hours passed, however, all that hard work naturally brought on a wave of hungry appetites.
Right when energy levels began to lag, Chef Patty stepped up to save the day in the best possible way. She jumped into the kitchen alongside the Executive Director to whip up a delicious meal from scratch. Together, they made incredible, handmade Tacos de Buche paired with vibrant, fresh pico de gallo. The flavor and care packed into every bite easily beat any takeout the team could have ordered.
More than just a delicious lunch, it gave everyone a chance to pause, gather, and recharge during a busy day. A heartfelt thank you went out to Chef Patty for keeping the team fed, energized, and feeling so deeply cared for as we welcomed our guests.
The Bluejays Have Landed
The long-awaited arrival finally came as our visiting Creighton University Bluejays officially landed in Anthony!
After traveling safely and settling in, the group fueled up with a fantastic dinner together. The energy was electric, and before calling it a night, everyone agreed that a quick detour was in order. The group loaded up into the Center’s van and took a scenic drive up Transmountain to take in the breathtaking, glowing night views across the borderland. Looking out over the shimmering city lights proved to be the perfect introduction to the region.
With great food, stunning views, and plenty of excitement in the air, the Bluejays officially kicked off an incredible week together. We were beyond thrilled to welcome them and could not wait to see all that the rest of the visit had in store!
Sunday Lunch with Our Creighton Bluejays
Nothing brings people together, quite like a hearty, homemade meal! During their immersive visit to the borderland, our Creighton University Bluejays gathered with the Women's Intercultural Center community for a wonderful Sunday lunch.
Surrounded by good company, laughter, and authentic flavors, including fresh, comforting batches of traditional enchiladas, everyone enjoyed a true taste of Mexican food and hospitality. It was a beautiful afternoon of sharing stories, building connections, and celebrating community across cultures.
The meal set the tone for an incredible week ahead as bonds were being formed!
Mayor Gabriel Holguín Meets with Creighton Bluejays
The City of Anthony extended a warm borderland welcome to our visiting Creighton University Bluejays when Mayor Gabriel Holguín took the time to meet with the group during their immersive visit to the region.
The mayor engaged in a thoughtful discussion with the students, sharing insights into the community, local leadership, and the unique vibrant spirit that defines Anthony, New Mexico. The interactive exchange gave the Bluejays a firsthand look at local governance and community dedication in action.
Expressing his appreciation for the visit, Mayor Holguín noted what an "awesome group" the students were and shared his gratitude to the Women's Intercultural Center for the invitation to participate in such a meaningful discussion.
It was an inspiring afternoon for everyone involved, and the Center extends its sincere thanks to Mayor Holguín for his time, leadership, and continued support of our visiting student cohorts!
Crafting Spooktacular Halloween Boxes
The spirit of community was alive and bustling at the Women's Intercultural Center as our visiting Creighton Bluejays jumped right in to help prepare for one of our favorite seasonal traditions!
With boundless energy and teamwork, the Bluejays assembled and packed special Halloween Boxes filled with treats and festive cheer. From organizing supplies to carefully packing each box, their dedication ensured that everything was set up for success.
These Halloween boxes are all packed up and ready to bring smiles to our community! They will be distributed to our participants during our upcoming Halloween Potluck Celebration on Thursday, October 29th.
A heartfelt thank you to our Creighton Bluejays for rolling up their sleeves and putting so much care into every single box. This is the power of coming together to celebrate and uplift one another!
Bluejays Straddle Two States
Why choose one state when you can walk through two? The visiting Creighton Bluejay crew proved they were experts at exactly that. They got their steps in across the unique Texas-New Mexico line. Following their scenic nighttime view of the borderland, they spent some time experiencing the specific geography of the area firsthand. In a classic borderland activity, they gathered right at the dividing line. Our original illustration of the moment shows the group gathered by the iconic road sign. Under a stunning orange and purple sunset sky, the sign clearly marked the "NEW MEXICO STATE LINE" and the "Anthony NM City Limits." The students posed together, laughing and straddling the line, finding the perfect photo opportunity with one foot planted in Texas and the other in New Mexico, embodying the true spirit of crossing boundaries.
Yarn Art Magic
Spooky, elegant, and crafted entirely out of yarn, a stunning new creation brought a wave of festive cheer to the Women's Intercultural Center!
Yarn Art Instructor Alma Urrutia surprised the entire Yarn Art Class with her latest masterpiece beautifully detailed, Halloween-inspired piece complete with intricate dresses and handcrafted accessories. Every stitch showed her incredible talent, creativity, and passion for teaching.
The students and volunteers alike were mesmerized by the level of dedication and craftsmanship put into every detail. Alma's creation inspired the class for their own seasonal projects and filled the room with festive Halloween spirit!
A huge thank you to Alma for sharing her creative spark, inspiring our participants, and constantly bringing art and joy to our community!
A Heartfelt Thank You to Veronica
Our community space was filled with extra energy and warmth this past week as we welcomed back our amazing young volunteer, Veronica!
It was a joy for everyone at the Center to catch up with her and hear all about how she has been settling into her new classes. Veronica has been working tirelessly to solidify her GPA as she prepares for her upcoming journey to college, and we could not be prouder of her hard work, dedication, and bright future ahead.
Veronica’s time spent volunteering with us left a lasting impression on our volunteers and participants alike. Reflecting on her experience, Veronica shared:
"Thank you so much WInC for giving me a place to be a part of a great community and the opportunity to learn and share about myself plus the peers who are among me."
Thank you for spending your free time with us and sharing your wonderful spirit with our Center, Veronica. You are the power of youth leadership, and we are rooting for you every step of the way!
Breaking Barriers and Building Bridges
Learning a new language is never easy, yet having the right environment makes all the difference in the world. The Women's Intercultural Center was honored to welcome the Creighton Bluejays into our English as a Second Language (ESL) classroom, creating an afternoon filled with connection, encouragement, and growth.
The Bluejays sat right alongside our participants, diving into conversation practice and lending a helping hand with vocabulary and pronunciation. Their warm energy and patient support immediately put everyone at ease, transforming what can often be a daunting learning process into a joyful, collaborative experience.
Having the Creighton students at the table demonstrated the power of community in education. We were deeply grateful to have such a supportive, impactful group share their time and encouragement with our ESL learners, proving that when we come together, every conversation becomes a bridge!
Warmth, Generosity, and Surprise Gifts
Anyone who has ever stepped through the doors of the Center already knows the warmth, care, and boundless generosity that our participants bring to everything they do. This past week was no exception, as our community came together for a truly special encounter with our visiting Creighton University Bluejays.
We want to send a massive and heartfelt THANK YOU to Adriana and Selma for taking the time to open their hearts, share their personal stories, and speak directly with our visiting guests. Their willingness to share their wisdom and experiences made a deep, lasting impression on the students.
As if sharing their time and insights weren't enough, everyone was completely blown away by an incredible surprise: Adriana brought handmade amigurumi plushies as gifts for each of our guests! These beautiful, intricately crafted plushies were such a thoughtful gesture and served as the absolute perfect keepsake for the Creighton students to take home as a memory of their trip.
Adriana and Selma truly showed our visitors the genuine heart of our community, making their visit an unforgettable experience for everyone involved.
Creating Beautiful Catrina Dolls Together
Art, tradition, and community always go hand in hand at the Center! This past week, our workshop tables were filled with vibrant colors, lively conversation, and the delightful rustle of tissue paper as participants gathered to craft traditional Catrina dolls.
Using simple craft materials, everyone dove into the creative process selecting colorful layers of tissue paper, folding them into soft, full skirts, and adding bold, patterned prints for that signature festive flair. With careful cuts and steady hands, participants shaped each layer to create volume and texture, bringing their unique artistic visions to life.
From bright pinks and teals to striking red skirts and vibrant floral crowns, every handmade Catrina turned out completely unique. Beyond the beautiful dolls taking shape across the room, the workshop gave us the joy of creating together. Working side by side, sharing ideas, and passing down traditional techniques makes every fold feel a little easier and every finished piece that is much more special.
A Cool Treat at La Pale Paleteria y Botanas
After a busy week filled with meaningful discussions, community projects, and borderland exploration, taking a sweet break was in order! Our volunteer Saif paused the busy schedule to enjoy some delicious ice cream and traditional treats alongside our visiting Creighton Bluejays at La Pale Paleteria y Botanas in Anthony, Texas.
The group gathered to cool off with delicious ice cream. The cozy neighborhood spot provided the perfect backdrop for relaxing, sharing favorite memories from the week, and enjoying each other's company.
It was a delightful afternoon that refreshed everyone's spirits, reminding us that some of the best moments of connection happen over a cool treat on a sweet desert day!
Witnessing Creativity Take Shape in Art Class
The gallery was buzzing with quiet focus and inspiration as participants gathered for art class at the Women's Intercultural Center. We stopped by to check on the progress and were amazed to witness the incredible pieces coming into life right before our eyes.
One stunning masterpiece in progress truly captured everyone's attention: a breathtaking painting of a vibrant yellow and black swallowtail butterfly resting gently on a cluster of rich purple flowers. The soft blend of warm yellow and green tones in the background brought the scene to life, highlighting the delicate brushwork and incredible detail being poured into every single wing pattern. Brushes were neatly lined up on the table as the artist carefully layered color after color, turning a blank board into a masterpiece.
It was inspiring to see our participants express their talents, explore new techniques, and create such beautiful artwork together. There is an incredible power of creative expression and wonderful talent thriving right here in our WInC community!
A Deep Dive into Immigration Law
Our visiting Creighton Bluejays were honored to spend time with Lauren Armstrong and the dedicated team at Origin Immigration Law.
Lauren provided an insightful, in-depth overview of the complexities of immigration law, shedding light on the legal frameworks, challenges, and human stories that define the borderland region. Beyond the legal details, she shared the personal journey and inspiring moments that sparked her passion for advocating work and helping others navigate the justice system.
Her powerful perspective gave our group a deeper understanding of the legal landscape and the heart required to advocate for individuals and families every day. A huge, special thank you goes out to Lauren Armstrong and everyone at Origin Immigration Law for opening their doors, sharing their expertise, and inspiring us all with their dedication to service!
Celebrating Our ICAN Graduates
We are so incredibly proud to celebrate our latest group of ICAN graduates!
These dedicated participants came together each week to learn about healthy meal planning, budget-friendly grocery shopping, food safety, and delicious, nutritious cooking techniques. From mastering balanced recipes like lentil tacos to learning practical ways to stretch a family food budget, their commitment to improving the health and well-being of their households has been truly inspiring.
Graduation day is always a beautiful reminder of what happens when we gather around food and education. Not only did our participants gain valuable skills to nourish their families, but they also built lasting friendships, shared their own cooking wisdom, and strengthened our community along the way.
A massive congratulations to all our graduates! Thank you for your hard work, your wonderful enthusiasm, and for bringing so much flavor and joy to our Center. We can't wait to see all the amazing meals you continue to create at home!
Inspiring Conversation on Healing
The heart of our Center has always been rooted in mentorship, empowerment, and building a stronger, healthier community together. This past week brought a truly inspiring moment as our Executive Director sat down for a meaningful conversation with Sophia, a remarkable young woman preparing for her future career in medicine.
During their discussion, Sophia shared her passionate vision for healthcare, one that goes beyond physical treatment to address emotional and psychological well-being. Together, they explored how she can support others in overcoming trauma, integrating compassionate care into her medical journey, and becoming a source of healing for those who need it most.
This is how the knowledge and experiences cultivated within our Center ripple outward into the broader world. Seeing bright, dedicated future medical professionals like Sophia approach healthcare with such deep empathy fills us with immense hope.
We are so proud of Sophia for pursuing her dreams with purpose, and we cannot wait to see the incredible impact she will make as she continues her journey in medicine!
A Visit to Roadrunner Food Bank
During the Border Awareness Experience week, our visiting Creighton University Bluejays stepped outside the traditional classroom to explore the realities of our region firsthand with a visit to the Roadrunner Food Bank.
The visit provided a powerful opportunity for the students to learn how the food bank operates and what food insecurity truly looks like in southern New Mexico and along the border. Discussions centered on how local knowledge shapes community responses, why geography matters when examining food access, and how unique regional challenges often differ from national patterns.
Moving from discussion to action, the students toured the facility's expansive warehouse, witnessing the impressive scale of coordination required to sort, manage, and distribute supplies where they are needed most. Seeing the practical systems in place up close helped the Bluejays connect large-scale logistics to the everyday work of serving local families.
We want to send a special and heartfelt thank you to Ariana Bautista for making this meaningful visit possible, providing our guests with a day of deep learning, connection, and a clearer understanding of food security in our community.
A 100% Success Tradition
Since 2008, every single participant in our citizenship classes has successfully become a naturalized U.S. citizen. That remarkable 100% success rate is built on a foundation of personalized curricula, custom study cards, and the extraordinary dedication of our participants and volunteers.
This past week, our classroom welcomed a very special group of visitors: the Creighton University Bluejays!
Having university students join our sessions is a fun exchange and it plays an essential role in our learning environment. Every individual speaks with unique dialects, accents, tones, and pacing. By bringing these diverse voices into the room, our citizenship participants get the invaluable opportunity to practice dynamic, real-world conversations that go beyond standard textbook learning. It is the ultimate way to prepare them for their naturalization interviews with confidence and ease.
To the Bluejays, thank you for bringing your voice, your time, and your wonderful energy to our classroom this week!
Empowering Futures
Navigating complex administrative systems and major life choices can often feel overwhelming, yet no one in our community ever has to walk that path alone. This past week, it was an absolute honor to stand alongside Nancy as she took control of two major decisions shaping her family's future.
Our volunteer worked with Nancy to submit a Freedom of Information Act (FOIA) request to help her access and secure her personal records. Beyond the paperwork, we also provided a quiet, supportive space for her to process and explore educational options for her son, serving as a sounding board while she weighed the best opportunities for his academic growth.
By breaking down complicated procedures and offering dedicated, compassionate guidance, we remain committed to ensuring that every individual who steps through our doors feels informed, confident, and empowered. Thank you for trusting us with your journey, Nancy, we are always in your corner!
A Desert Encounter
During an evening excursion through the area, the Creighton Bluejays had the chance to meet some of the most vibrant local "wildlife" the region has to offer expressed through stunning, larger-than-life public art!
As the sun began to set, casting warm desert hues across the landscape, the group paused to admire local murals and sculptures that brought the Chihuahuan Desert to life. From resilient native flora to majestic desert fauna, the artwork captivated the students, sparking thoughtful conversations about the unique ecosystem and the rich culture of the borderland.
The Bluejays marveled at how beautifully the pieces captured the enduring, resilient spirit of the desert and its people. It was a wonderful evening of exploration, art appreciation, and connected with the heart of our community's creative expression!
Walking the Journey Together
Navigating the complex world of immigration applications, renewals, and legal paperwork can often feel daunting, overwhelming, and filled with uncertainty. Yet, every single week at the Center, our community proves that no one has to walk this path alone.
This past week, our dedicated volunteers were once again on the ground, sitting shoulder-to-shoulder with participants to help them navigate their immigration documentation. From walking through step-by-step application forms to tracking critical letters and biometrics notifications, we worked together to ensure that every document was completed with care, clarity, and precision.
Beyond just filling out forms, these sessions represent peace of mind. By breaking down complex bureaucratic systems into clear, manageable steps, we help our participants take confident control of their legal status and their families' futures.
Every form submitted is a milestone toward security, opportunity, and belonging. We are deeply honored to serve as a trusted support system for our neighbors as they build their dreams and reach new heights!
Economic Realities Along the Border
Understanding life along the U.S./Mexico border requires looking closely at the economic engine that drives our binational region. During their Border Awareness Experience, the Creighton University SCSJ Bluejays had the incredible opportunity to dive deep into the complexities of the Border Economy during a visit with the Mesilla Valley Economic Development Alliance (MVEDA).
The group sat down for an insightful, wide-ranging conversation with MVEDA President & CEO Davin Lopez. Together, they explored key topics shaping southern New Mexico and the surrounding borderlands from binational trade networks and cross-border infrastructure to the unique economic realities facing local communities on both sides of the divide. Davin’s expertise offered the students a powerful new framework for understanding how strategic economic development directly impacts daily lives, job creation, and regional stability.
By connecting macro-level economic policies to the lived experiences of border residents, the session gave our visiting Bluejays a far more holistic worldview of the challenges and opportunities defining our region.
We extend our heartfelt gratitude to MVEDA, President & CEO Davin Lopez, and Eldelisa Nava for graciously hosting our group, sharing their time, and expanding our students' perspectives!
A Visit to Weirdoughs Bakery and Café
Supporting local businesses and celebrating our extended community family is always a treat! This past week, our WInC volunteers stopped by Weirdoughs Bakery and Café to show our support and enjoy some incredible local flavors.
We are especially proud of this spot because this wonderful bakery is owned and operated by the talented daughter of our very own WInC participant, Ana! Stepping inside reveals a cozy, welcoming space bursting with playful character and heart. The walls are decorated with colorful artwork, and even the decor features a fun reminder to keep fashion weird.
The menu offers plenty of delicious ways to pair a fresh bake, from lattes and teas to specialty favorites. Among the highlights are their Japanese milk bread donuts, which easily rank among the best in the area. The display case is packed with tempting options from colorful donuts to classic glazed favorites, alongside take-home cookies like chocolate chip and apple snickerdoodle. From fresh loaves to little sweet treats, there is something special for everyone to bring home.
Our visit left us already planning our next trip back. A little support for a local business means the world to our community dreamers, so if you haven't checked them out yet, make sure to pay them a visit at 2900 North Mesa and treat yourself!
Visiting the Giant Recycled Roadrunner
Have you ever taken a trip out to Las Cruces and stood beside the giant Recycled Roadrunner? Our visiting Creighton University SCSJ Bluejays recently made a special pit stop at this iconic southern New Mexico landmark!
Standing tall over the valley at the rest area along Interstate 10, this impressive 20-foot statue is a fun photo opportunity. Sculpted entirely from repurposed materials, including recycled metal, old computer parts, gears, and everyday household items, the bird serves as a striking, larger-than-life reminder of the power of sustainability, resourcefulness, and creative public art.
For the Bluejays, stopping by the roadrunner was a memorable moment to pause, stretch, and take in the unique character and desert charm of our region. As they posed for photos beneath the giant sculpture, it offered the perfect reflection on how everyday objects can be transformed into something extraordinary when a community values creativity and care for the environment.
Whether you are a long-time resident or just passing through, a visit to this desert icon is always a great reminder of the art and ingenuity hidden right in our own backyard!
Witnessing the Legal Realities of the Border
Understanding the full scope of border dynamics requires looking beyond the physical fence and stepping into the courtrooms where legal decisions unfold every day. As part of their Border Awareness Experience, the Creighton University SCSJ Bluejays had the profound opportunity to visit the Federal U.S. District Court, witnessing criminal arraignments firsthand before moving on to observe immigration court proceedings.
Although strict security measures meant cameras were strictly prohibited inside, the impact of what took place in the courtroom was unforgettable. Watching the legal process in real time gave the students an unfiltered look at the immense complexity, speed, and weight of the federal judicial system along the border.
Following the proceedings, the group was honored to speak directly with U.S. Magistrate Judge Fouratt, as well as Assistant Federal Public Defenders Amanda Skinner and Joshua Galst. To help process everything they had seen, the students sat down for a picnic debrief with Amanda, unpacking the intricate legal procedures and human stories behind each case.
We are exceptionally grateful to Amanda Skinner, who consistently takes the time to welcome our visiting groups at the courthouse and guide them through these crucial debriefs year after year. Her dedication ensures our visitors walk away not just with observations, but with a grounded, clear understanding of the legal realities facing our region.
The Reality of the Border
There is a profound difference between seeing the U.S./Mexico border discussed on the evening news and standing right beside it in person. While immigration remains a complex, high-stakes topic debated continuously across the country, especially during election seasons, experiencing the border up close shifts the conversation from abstract headlines to tangible human reality.
During their Border Awareness Experience week, Creighton University SCSJ students traveled directly to the border fence for an immersive, eye-opening visit. Standing at one of the world's most talked-about boundaries, the students met directly with U.S. Border Patrol Agent Corrales and Agent Jimenez. Together, they engaged in open, thoughtful dialogue, asking difficult questions about border security, humanitarian realities, and the daily dynamics of life on the front lines.
From taking in the sheer scale of the barrier to watching the desert sun filter through the massive steel grates, the visit offered a quiet space for reflection and deep listening. Being present at the fence allowed the students to gather crucial perspectives and feel the weight of a place that shapes so many lives and national conversations.
We extend our sincere gratitude to Agent Corrales and Agent Jimenez for taking the time to share their insights, answer questions, and engage with our visiting students during this powerful day of learning.
Leaving Their Mark
The time has come to say goodbye as our visiting Creighton Bluejays have officially departed, yet they have left a lasting mark on our hearts and our Center!
Before heading home, the group posed together in front of a colorful new mural painted directly on our wall to celebrate their immersive experience. The vibrant artwork features a striking desert sunset over mountain peaks, a sun with a spiral heart, and a bluejay standing alongside a roadrunner along a winding road. The piece, complete with banners reading "SCSJ" and "Fall '26," perfectly captures the spirit of connection, art, and community built throughout their stay.
While we will miss their energy, helping hands, and warm smiles, we are endlessly grateful for the time they spent with us at the Women's Intercultural Center. Thank you, Bluejays, for your dedication and for leaving behind a beautiful piece of art that will inspire our participants for years to come! Safe travels, and you are always welcome back home in Anthony!
