Celebrating One Year of Community Connection

As we mark our one-year anniversary, I find myself reflecting on an incredible journey that has exceeded my wildest expectations. I could never have imagined how quickly and profoundly this publication would grow, and it’s all thanks to our dedicated resident contributors and the amazing businesses that sponsor our efforts.

This past year has been filled with learning curves and challenges, but the support and enthusiasm I’ve encountered have been truly inspiring. I am honored to have created a platform that not only shares your stories but also showcases the remarkable businesses in our community.

Looking ahead, I’m excited to introduce you to the talented staff who have been instrumental in our founding year. Together, we will continue to evolve and bring you even more engaging content in the future. Thank you for being part of this journey with us!

I want to take a moment to recognize all the businesses that have been part of this journey, both past and present. Their support through paid advertisements is what makes this publication possible; they truly are the backbone of our efforts.

The relationship we build with each business is vital. I personally meet with every partner to ensure they align with our values and that I feel confident in recommending them to you. This collaboration goes beyond mere advertising; it’s about creating a community of trusted services that we can all rely on.

The best way to show your appreciation is by using their services and sharing your positive experiences through word of mouth. Together, we can strengthen these connections and support the local economy.

Thank you to all the businesses for making this publication possible for everyone. Your contributions are invaluable, and I look forward to continuing this journey together.

Lauren Jorgensen is one of the editors for Stroll Magazine, currently a Junior at Baylor University, where she majors in Marketing and Entrepreneurship. Born and raised in Albuquerque, she is also part of Baylor's D1 Equestrian Team and a member of the Zeta Tau Alpha sorority. 

Family plays a significant role in Lauren's life. Her parents, Lence and Brittany Jorgensen, raised her alongside her two sisters: Grace, 22, who is a Senior at Baylor, and Sadie, a Sophomore at Albuquerque Academy. The family shares their home with two dogs—a Shih Tzu mix named Gizmo and a miniature Australian shepherd named Smokey—who bring joy and a bit of chaos to their lives.

When it comes to hobbies, Lauren is passionate about writing, which aligns perfectly with her editorial role. Riding horses is another love of hers, as she spends much of her time practicing and competing. To find peace amidst her hectic schedule, she enjoys going on walks to clear her mind.

An interesting highlight from her recent experiences includes a six-week study abroad program through Baylor's business school. This past summer, she traveled to several European cities, including Munich, Salzburg, Caen, Paris, Geneva, Interlaken, and London, where she made lasting memories and connections.

Lauren is especially proud of the growth of Stroll Magazine over the past year. She appreciates the overwhelming support from the community and values how the publication highlights personal stories and local achievements, fostering engagement and connection among neighbors. As an editor for Stroll Tanoan, she loves the opportunity to share the stories of community members and deepen her understanding of the vibrant neighborhood around her.

I cannot express enough how grateful I am for Lauren Jorgensen. From the very beginning, she has played an instrumental role in this publication, transforming people's stories into beautifully crafted narratives. Her talent and dedication have truly made a difference, and I am thrilled to embark on another year together, continuing to grow and create inspiring content. Thank you Lauren! 

Lauren has been married to her husband, Lucas, for six wonderful years, and together they are the proud parents of a lively 2.5-year-old daughter named Laney. Their journey began in a college English class, where they were assigned to the same peer editing group. Despite both hailing from the same hometown, it took college for them to finally meet—a true testament to God’s perfect timing. Currently based in San Angelo, TX, Lauren is a proud graduate of Texas A&M University, where her loyalty as an Aggie fan runs deep.

In her free time, Lauren enjoys a variety of hobbies. Traveling, reading, working out, and engaging in arts and crafts projects are among her favorites. She values the close-knit relationships she has with both her family and friends, relishing the opportunity to reconnect with her hometown community.

Interestingly, Lauren's high school experience was quite unique; she graduated with just three classmates, making for an unusually small senior class.

Professionally, Lauren finds great satisfaction in her role as an Ad Strategist for the publication she feels honored to be part of. I can personally attest to her incredible impact on our work. Throughout the year, if you looked at the earlier publications, it was a "holy hot mess express" with me handling the designs. I am beyond grateful for Lauren’s vision, care, compassion, and attention to detail. Her contributions are priceless, and thanks to her, the advertising aspects of our business look flawless. Lauren truly loves connecting with clients, tapping into her creativity, and helping to bring their branding and vision to life, making the collaborative process immensely rewarding.

In the heart of South Valley lives Lisa, a remarkable woman who expertly balances the roles of mom, entrepreneur, and reading tutor. Although she once taught with a  dual licenses in special education and general education, Lisa has shifted her focus to being a stay-at-home mom to her four children—ages 14, 12, 5, and 2. In this new chapter, she continues to foster a love for learning through her tutoring work, guiding children in their reading skills.

Lisa is not just a devoted mother; she is also the proud owner of Wewadee’s Red Barn Bakery. This charming establishment has become a beloved spot in South Valley, where Lisa crafts delicious treats that bring joy to the community. Her entrepreneurial spirit shines through in every baked good, reflecting her commitment to quality and creativity.

Homeschooling her children has become a rewarding venture for Lisa. It allows her to create a tailored educational experience that meets their unique needs while fostering a love for learning in a nurturing environment. Lisa integrates engaging activities that captivate her children's imaginations, making education a fun and interactive process. Her husband, an over-the-road owner-operator in the trucking industry, provides essential support for their family. Despite his demanding schedule, the couple works together to create a loving and structured household.

When she finds a moment for herself, Lisa enjoys indulging in her hobbies. Watching movies, diving into a good book, and playing with her kids are her favorite pastimes. These activities not only serve as a source of relaxation but also as opportunities to bond with her family.

An interesting fact about Lisa is her early experience with Hurricane Andrew while living in Florida. At just four years old, she witnessed the power of nature, an event that shaped her resilience. This strength is mirrored in her involvement with the Tanoan community, where she has been one of the most intricate parts of the publication. For the majority of its early days, she found stories, helped create them, and put all the pieces of the puzzle together. After taking a little time away, Lisa is now back with us in a slightly different role as an interviewer and proofreader. She will continue to be a huge part of this publication, and we are grateful for her contributions.

As Lisa continues to navigate the beautiful chaos of motherhood and entrepreneurship, she remains a beacon of inspiration. Her dedication to her family, her passion for tutoring, and her love for her community are just a few of the qualities that make her a remarkable individual. Whether she’s baking at the bakery, homeschooling her kids, or helping children improve their reading skills, Lisa embodies the spirit of a modern-day superhero, balancing her many roles with grace and enthusiasm. Thank you, Lisa, for all that you do!

Meet Alexander Becenti, a talented photographer and dedicated community member based in Albuquerque, New Mexico. With deep roots in the Navajo Nation and a passion for capturing life's moments, Alex is making waves in the local photography scene while striving to give back to his home community in Shiprock.

Born in Shiprock, Alex and his family moved to Albuquerque shortly after his birth. Growing up in the vibrant city, he attended local schools, including Arroyo Del Oso Elementary, Jefferson Middle School, and Volcano Vista High School, before continuing his education at the University of New Mexico. However, Alex soon realized that traditional education wasn’t his calling. In January 2023, he took a bold step and launched his photography business, A1 Moments LLC.

Alex's mission goes beyond just taking beautiful photographs. He aims to support lower-income families in rural Shiprock by providing them with high-quality professional photos at affordable prices. His connection to his Native American heritage fuels his desire to uplift his community, ensuring that everyone has access to cherished memories.

When he’s not behind the camera, Alex enjoys exploring various genres of photography, diving into books, and embarking on adventures across New Mexico. His love for the outdoors often leads him on road trips and hikes, where he finds inspiration in the natural beauty of his surroundings. Additionally, he has a penchant for discovering local coffee shops, which adds a touch of warmth to his creative process.

Interestingly, Alex didn’t travel outside the United States until the age of 28. This milestone trip opened up new perspectives and experiences, enriching his artistic vision and appreciation for diverse cultures. He is also involved with Stroll Tanoan, where he serves as a photographer for various events and initiatives, including the Athlete of the Month feature. He values the publication for its role in fostering community connections, providing residents with a reliable source for local events and business partnerships.

It has been such a pleasure finding Alex; his charismatic, uplifting energy and the growth of his photography have been an honor to witness—not only for myself but for this publication as well. As a proud member of the Navajo Nation and 100% Diné Native American, Alex Becenti embodies the spirit of creativity and community. His journey from a young student in Albuquerque to a professional photographer dedicated to making a difference is truly inspiring. With A1 Moments LLC, he is not only capturing memories but also creating opportunities for families in his home region, paving the way for a brighter future. Keep an eye on Alex—he’s just getting started!

In the heart of New Mexico, amidst the stunning landscapes and vibrant communities, Kate Buckles has carved out a niche for herself as a beloved photographer. A Midwestern girl with a deep love for people and photography, Kate has embraced her life in New Mexico, finding beauty in every moment she captures.

When she’s not running in the bosque or chasing after her three energetic boys, Kate is busy documenting the lives of her clients. “It’s such an honor to be part of their lives and to capture these fleeting moments,” she shares. Her passion for photography blossomed when she became a mother, inspiring her to document every precious moment with her children. “Many mothers feel the same way. Shout out to those borderline-obsessed moms who fill their phones with thousands of photos of their little ones!”

In addition to photography, Kate enjoys running, playing football with her boys, and hiking in the Manzano Mountains. The family also loves spending time at their cabin there, where they create lasting memories together. Baking is another cherished family activity, providing a sweet way to bond.

An interesting tidbit about Kate is that she hails from Minnesota, where the cold weather might suggest she’s accustomed to frigid temperatures. However, she jokes, “I’m a total freeze baby! I often carry hand warmers and wear heated socks during winter photo sessions.” She also has an identical twin sister who lives in Gilbert, Arizona, adding to the richness of her family connections.

Kate is excited to embark on her journey as a new photographer for Stroll Tanoan. She loves how local publications bring families and neighbors together, fostering connections that have diminished in our busy lives. “It’s heartwarming to see the reconnections and support we can offer each other,” she notes. Through Stroll Tanoan, she aims to capture the essence of the community, photographing families, seniors, animals, and everything else that makes it unique. “Being a photographer is so much more than just a job; it’s about preserving moments in time forever.”

Through her lens, Kate Buckles embodies the spirit of community and family. Her ability to connect with her clients and capture the essence of their lives makes her an invaluable part of the New Mexico landscape. You have been such a gift to find, Kate, and I love being able to kick off our collaboration with the cover photo for this publication. I’m so excited to see where our journey goes!

Morgan Tharp 

Morgan is a dedicated professional who plays a vital role in connecting our community through her work. Married to her high school sweetheart for seven years, she is a devoted mother of three young children: a lively 4-year-old, a curious 2-year-old, and a charming 4-month-old.

Originally from Minnesota, Morgan and her family have embraced adventure, having moved to four different states in the past four years due to her husband’s job. Despite these frequent changes, she finds joy in each new experience, particularly during trips to the beach, which she considers her happy place.

In her spare time, Morgan enjoys spending quality moments with her family, whether playing games with her husband or taking leisurely walks together. Her passion for connection extends into her role with our community publication. She loves how it fosters connections among residents by sharing inspiring travel stories and creative recipes that ignite new ideas and adventures.

As the social media manager for Stroll Tanoan, Morgan actively engages with neighbors and amplifies the diverse voices and stories that make this community unique. I am so grateful that we found Morgan; her ability to share stories alongside our local businesses and keep everything up-to-date on social media is truly priceless.

Through her enthusiasm and dedication, Morgan contributes significantly to our community, inspiring others with her commitment to connection and shared experiences.