Editor-in-Chief: Blake Downs
Howdy!
I am Blake Downs, a Communication Graduate Student here at ENMU. As an undergraduate, I studied history and journalism and worked as a correspondent for both The Chase and the formerly named Portales News-Tribune. After graduation, I worked as a writing tutor at Clovis Community College before beginning my current work as an English teacher at the Clovis High School Freshman Academy. I have also been drama director at both my church and for my previous assignment as a theatre teacher, and I have always approached my work with an artistic and visual mind.
I grew up with a love for story and setting, being drawn to tales that have a strong sense of place and environmental character. As I was raised here on the high plains of eastern New Mexico, I definitely acquired an appreciation for landscape and rural culture. Both my parents are from the East Coast (and raised a whole herd of children), and we would make yearly cross country roadtrips to visit family. This kindled my love of exploration and travel, and having a dad who would hop in the car and take me on whirlwind spur-of-the-moment trips up to the mountains or down to the Texas Hill Country definitely helped that love flourish.
As an (unlikely) future world-renowned anthropologist/reporter or (perhaps, more realistically) a simple missionary, I enjoy being immersed in different cultures and using those experiences to connect and help people to find truth that leads to freedom. Real stories of real people can have great impact on the public, and doing all we can to reach out to others is a worthwhile endeavor. I am honored to take on this position as the editor-in-chief of Houndbytes, and I hope to encourage up and coming voices and writers in a world becoming increasingly divisive and censored.
Lifestyle Writer – Naomi Vargas
Hi readers!
My name is Naomi Nanette Vargas. I am 51 years old; I have two children, Anthony Loya of Clovis, and Avery Loya of Portales. We’re an ENMU family!
I have two grandbabies, Eli and Rio Loya, both children of Anthony and Sabrina Loya. They are my life!
I work for Dairy Farmers of America Corporate HR, and I love my job. I love this company because they promote from within. I am far from perfect, but I strive to be better daily. In a world where you can be anything … BE KIND.
Staff Writer – Ella Self
Hey there! I’m Ella Self, a 19-year-old college student currently majoring in Communications at ENMU. I’m passionate about both the art of effective communication and the power of media in our digital age. You’ll often find me at the Golden Student Success Center library, where I spend hours buried in books and working on my assignments.
Aside from academics, I have a few hobbies that keep me going. I love reading, getting lost in different worlds through books is a favorite pastime of mine. I also have an appreciation for photography; capturing moments and stories through the lens of a camera is something I find deeply satisfying.
Music is another big part of my life. I’m always exploring new genres and artists, and I find that music often inspires my creative side, whether I’m working on a photography project or writing. My career aspirations are in the realm of social media marketing. I’m excited about the potential of digital platforms to connect people and share stories.
In my free time, you might catch me exploring the local coffee shops, trying out new foods, or simply enjoying the beautiful campus here at ENMU. I’m all about personal growth, expanding my horizons, and connecting with people who share my passions. Feel free to say hello if you see me in the library or around campus. I’m always up for a good chat about books, photography, or the latest music discoveries!