New Members
Somar Industries, LTD
Contact: Sabrina Voorhies
PO Box 220325
El Paso, TX 79913
(915) 858-8080
Upcoming Events
Board Meeting -
Jan. 8th, 2026 at 11:30 a.m.
EPAB Office
2025 Installation Banquet
The EPAB debuted a new venue for its 2025 Installation and Awards Banquet, hosting the event at the Starlight Event Center. The space was transformed with festive black, white, and gold décor, setting an elegant tone for the evening.
The 79th Installation welcomed 280 guests, all dressed to impress, who gathered to witness the installation of Lydia Mlouhi as President for 2026. In her acceptance speech, Lydia reflected on her beginnings in the family business, Lugo Plumbing. Her parents looked on with pride as Lydia became the third female president in the Association’s nearly 80-year history.
“I can tell you that the so-called glass ceiling has been broken again, and one day soon we’ll welcome the fourth, fifth, and many more female presidents,” Lydia told The Outlook.
Presiding over the installation of Lydia and the Board was newly installed Texas Association of Builders (TAB) President Chris Lyons of Amarillo, who attended with his wife, Tracie. Addressing the audience, Lyons shared a personal highlight: “I have awards and proclamations in my office, but my favorite is the one EPAB presented to me—making me an Honorary El Pasoan.”
Lyons also entertained guests with a memorable story from last year’s event. Piloting a helicopter with a friend, severe weather forced them to land in a canyon until conditions improved. The pair then flew to Carlsbad, rented a car, and drove the rest of the way to arrive on time. “My buddy said he’s never flying with me again,” Lyons joked to The Outlook.
The evening also included the presentation of the Builder Member of the Year, Associate Member of the Year, and the Lifetime Chaney-Shallenberger Award (separate stories, page11)
This year’s celebration marked two bittersweet milestones as well—Margaret’s last installation as a full time EPAB employee the final EPAB event for longtime DJ Mike Armstead. Margaret’s story will be published in another edition of The Outlook, after we celebrate her in January.
A retired Army serviceman and civilian, Armstead has provided the soundtrack for EPAB events for two decades. “I always enjoy doing this party because everyone is so nice, and most are old friends,” he said.
The incoming Board and Executive Committee will officially assume their roles on January 1, 2026. As the Association approaches its 80th anniversary this October, plans are already underway to celebrate the milestone throughout the year.
Ray Adauto Receives Inaugural Award
The Ray Adauto Leadership Legacy Award was created to honor 23 years of unwavering service and leadership by EPAB’s longtime Executive Vice President, Ray Adauto. For more than two decades, Ray’s guidance, wisdom, and commitment to the association shaped not only its direction, but its culture—one rooted in mentorship and purpose.
The award was presented during EPAB’s 79th Annual Installation Banquet, in a moment that took Ray completely by surprise. As the room filled with applause, a special video played featuring heartfelt messages from several past EPAB presidents, each sharing stories of Ray’s influence, leadership, and the lasting impact he has had on their own journeys within the association.
Going forward, the Ray Adauto Leadership Legacy Award will be presented to individuals who exemplify the same spirit of leadership and mentorship that Ray has embodied throughout his career—those who lift others, lead with integrity, and leave EPAB stronger than they found it.
“This honor was unexpected and deeply appreciated. I am grateful to the Association for giving me the opportunity to be part of something so meaningful and important to the community. On behalf of my family and myself, thank you,” Adauto told the Outlook. The tribute video can be viewed at the following link:
Associate of the Year: Sandra Lucero
Being named Associate of the Year is a distinguished honor recognizing exceptional commitment, service, and support of the Association and its members. This year, the Association is proud to recognize Sandra Lucero, Account Executive of Builders Source Appliance Gallery, as the Associate of the Year.
Sandra consistently exemplifies what it means to be an engaged and dedicated associate member. Through her active involvement, professionalism, and unwavering support of the building community, she has made a meaningful and lasting impact on the Association. Sandra is known for her responsiveness, attention to detail, and genuine commitment to helping members succeed.
As an Account Executive with Builders Source Appliance Gallery, Sandra goes above and beyond to build strong relationships and provide exceptional service. Her willingness to step in, assist where needed, and support Association events and initiatives reflects her deep dedication to both her profession and the industry as a whole.
Sandra’s positive attitude, reliability, and collaborative spirit have earned her the respect and appreciation of her peers. The Association proudly congratulates Sandra Lucero on being named Associate of the Year and thanks her for her continued leadership, support, and outstanding contributions.
Chaney-Shallenberger Lifetime Award
Chuck Haskins
The Chaney–Shallenberger Lifetime Award honors members whose dedication and long-standing commitment have made a lasting impact on the El Paso Association of Builders. This year’s honoree, selected by John Chaney, is Charles “Chuck” Haskins, President and Founder of Haskins Electric. Chuck was formally recognized at the Installation Ceremony on December 5.
A long-time member of the Association, Chuck Haskins resides in Phoenix and oversees offices in Arizona, Nevada, New Mexico, and Texas. His commitment to the El Paso Association of Builders has been exemplary. Chuck has served as a Board member with nearly perfect attendance, consistently participating in meetings—even joining remotely when travel prevented him from attending in person.
For nearly a decade, the Haskins name has been synonymous with support for the Association as the Presenting Sponsor of the annual golf tournament. Chuck founded Haskins Electric in 1990, building the company into a respected multi-state operation. In addition to his success in the electrical industry, Chuck is also a local franchisee of Smoothie King and a past recipient of the Association’s Associate Member of the Year award.
The El Paso Association of Builders congratulates Chuck Haskins on this well-deserved honor and thanks him for his outstanding service, leadership, and continued dedication.
Christmas Events
