The Luna Light

SATELLITE MURAL Santa Rosa July 20, 2025

A vibrant new mural titled “The Influences of a Thriving Community – 100% Guada- lupe” now adorns the south wall of the Luna Community College building at the corner of Corona Avenue and South 4th Street in Santa Rosa. The piece serves as a visual celebration of the people, history, environment, and values that define Guadalupe County. From local landmarks like the Pecos River and Route 66 to cultural symbols such as an owl and golden carp from Bless Me, Ultima, the mural is a rich tapestry of heritage and hope. This public artwork is part of the 100% New

The Influences of a Thriving Community – 100% Guadalupe

Mexico Initiative, a statewide effort focused on preventing childhood trauma by ensuring families have access to ten vital services needed to survive and thrive. Locally, the initiative is led by the Lake City Youth & Family Center (LCY&FC), which secured funding from the Anna Age Eight Institute to bring the mural project to life. The mural not only beautifies the community but stands as a reflection of the county’s commitment to unity, health, and opportunity for all. What makes this mural especially meaningful is the leadership behind it. The project was spearheaded by Elizabeth Higgins, a senior at Santa Rosa High School, as her capstone through the school’s CTE Internship Program. Elizabeth facilitated a community design input survey, collaborated with local graphic designer Eli Quinn, managed volunteers, maintained the project schedule and budget, and even oversaw the painting process. Throughout the project, she gained hands-on experience in public speaking, decision-making, and collaboration—skills she will carry with her well beyond high school. Quinn, known for refurbishing business signs around town and his recent Route 66 mural at the Pecos The- atre, played a key role in developing the mural’s final design. With community input guiding the imagery, the result is a colorful and deeply rooted representation of what it means to live, work, and raise a family in Gua- dalupe County. Planning for the mural began in November 2024, and by May 10, 2025, after 192 hours of painting by stu- dent and community volunteers, the mural was complete. Materials were sourced locally, including paint and supplies, while other essential tools—like ladders, tarps, scaffolding, a projector, and a power generator—were provided by the team and community members. The unveiling event was held on May 29, 2025, with over 50 guests in attendance, including directors from the Anna Age Eight Institute. The celebration featured a documentary-style film crew, community speakers, and a shared meal of enchiladas—bringing people together to reflect on the impact of the 100% Guadalupe initiative and Elizabeth’s impressive leadership. Community feedback has been overwhelmingly positive, with residents praising the mural’s beauty and its meaningful representation of local culture. More than just a work of art, it now serves as a permanent re- minder of what’s possible when young leaders are empowered and a community comes together with a shared purpose.

11

Made with FlippingBook Digital Proposal Creator