By Lindsey Little
The University of New Mexico is breathing new life into some of the oldest buildings on this historic campus. For students currently enrolled at UNM, the latest renovations and resources have great potential to enhance their academic experiences.

The Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transgender and Questioning Resource Center (LGBTQ), Mitchell Hall and Student Family Housing are included in the extensive list of new buildings and updated resources. The long-standing tradition of diversity at UNM is central to the renovation efforts. As well as the student-based initiatives, the University is providing forums for the development of identity and culture.

Photo by Wes Naman

Having a strong desire to live in N.M., ‘Jersey Girl’ Karolyn Cannata-Winge helps reaccredit the Department of Communication & Journalism

By Lindsey Little
Karolyn Cannata-Winge was destined to have a larger-than-life personality. As a New Jersey native from a big Italian family, her lifestyle and career have followed her immeasurable love for people and journalism.

 
In a recent interview with Local iQ, Cannata-Winge introduced herself with a glowing smile and a cordial vivacity that lit up the room. Her career at the University of New Mexico began just five years ago, yet she is already one of the most respected, and loved, teachers on campus. 

The rumors are true: Local iQ is swooning over establishing its very first signature event: The New Mexico Brew Fest. This family-friendly, Oktoberfest-style event will be held outdoors at NM Expo's newly-renovated Villa Hispana on the afternoon of Saturday, October 2, just in time for the deluge of balloon-fanatics that is sure to descend upon Albuquerque for the Balloon Fiesta.

 

 

Photo By Joy Godfrey

If pets could talk, would that really be such good thing? ‘Yes’ says Animal Communicator Judy Meyer and her growing base of clients around the globe

 

By Chris Quintana
Judy Meyer started her career as an Animal Communicator as most might, skeptical. A communicator since 1990, Meyer said that when she entered into the field, she really wanted to believe in the effectiveness of animal communication. However, she thought she knew better.

 
“I had a friend who said, ‘You know there’s this woman in California that can talk to the animals and hear them,’” Meyer recalled in a recent Local iQ interview. “And I just looked at her and said, ‘That’s nice’ and walked away. I thought to myself, that would be a dream come true, but it’s not real. That was my thinking.”

Compiled by Lisa VanDyke, Photos by Wes Naman

Calling all fashionistas! Is there anybody out there? The answer, Local iQ recently discovered, is most definitely “yes.” This year’s fashion issue highlights true local panache. Rather than dress models in attire of our choice, we scoured the city for folks with first-rate style, and asked them to share selections from their own wardrobes. They also dished their style philosophies and fave retailers, so you can get in on the chichi action, too. Fab fashion is available at all price points, allowing everyone to exercise their right to keep Albuquerque beautiful. Ready to get your style on? Away we go!

Photo: Joy Godfrey

Is it possible to find three distinct fashionable looks with a budget of $50? This was the task that was put to Local iQ intern Chris Quintana. His answer was an emphatic, “Yes, with bus fare to spare.”

 

By Chris Quintana
Between rent, utilities, food and the other minuscule yet compiling costs, I don’t have the money to buy $50 shirts from Urban Outfitters to stay hip. I don’t even have the cash to buy $15 shirts from Buffalo Exchange, so where does that leave me and others who think that clothing should be affordable, yet shouldn’t make a person look destitute? Those of you thinking that I am either out of luck or doomed to shop at Walmart, think again. The answer is simple: thrift stores. With a budget of $50, I fashioned three unique styles with clothes entirely purchased from thrift stores around town (Note: I skipped underwear and socks because… well, gross!).

Stories by Brandie Erisman, Lindsey Little, Cristina Olds, Chris Quintana • Introduction by Chris Quintana

“Adventure is worthwhile in itself.” So said Amelia Earhart, one of the best adventurers of the last century. In this spirit, Local iQ presents a series of adventures for the summer season that are worthwhile in themselves. After all, what practical value can be ascribed to horseback riding in an age when cars dominate the roads, or climbing up 110 foot rock walls when helicopters can get us up there just as easily? For that matter, who rides a glider for the sake of getting somewhere quickly?