Abel Garcia joins ‘Bras for a Cause’

• Cecilia Castro, preparing Cajun spiced crab cake atop a crispy buttery cracker and topped with remoulade sauce. Originally from Anthony, N.M., Castro earned a bachelor’s degree from NMSU before attending the prestigious Culinary Institute of America in Napa Valley, Calif. After graduating, she spent several years traveling and working across the country, “honing my culinary skills in various regions,” Castro said. She returned to New Mexico to “share my passion for food” as an instructor at Doña Ana Community College and executive chef at Hacienda de Mesilla. “I am honored to be a part of this breast cancer awareness fundraiser, celebrating the power of food and community,” Castro said.

• Amber Casanova, preparing mushroom tartare on a truffle, crispy potato. Casanova is a native of Las Cruces and a 2020 graduate of Auguste Esscofier School of Culinary Arts. Casanova has been in the restaurant industry for 21 years and said, “I truly enjoy making people happy with the love and creativeness I put into my dishes.” Casanova has been executive chef at Picacho Hills Country Club for more than two years. “Although I am new to the game, my dedication and talent is shown through my culinary skills,” Casanova said. “I feel honored to be a part of this year’s Cancer Warriors fundraising event.”

• Danielle Ortiz, chef and owner, D’s Bakery, preparing a variety of millionaire’s shortbread confectionary. Ortiz, also known as “Chef D,” said her passion for food has always been strong. “Until a few years ago, I envisioned myself as a kitchen manager or executive chef at an upscale restaurant,” she said. “However, everything changed when I enrolled in the culinary program at DACC. My first baking class ignited a newfound love for baking and pastry. I have a special interest in accommodating dietary restrictions, including gluten-free and dairy-free options, and continue to expand my education and training in the culinary field.”

• Ayana Jordan, chef at A to Zia Culinary Solutions, preparing bourbon ham with boozy maraschino cherries and pineapple. Jordan recently opened A to Zia Culinary Solutions, where she is both owner and operator. Jordan is a Las Cruces native and graduate of the DACC culinary program. Jordan said A to Zia “is a culinary service encompassing all things industry related.”