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FASHION · HEALTH · TRAVEL EDITOR-IN-CHIEF August, 2014
Shelley Mozelle shelley@thecitymagazineelp.com
BUSINESS MANAGER COVER: Miss El Paso 2014-2015 Victoria Sinclair PHOTOGRAPHY BY: Dav Anmed
DESIGN BY: Ernie Sanchez Creative
COVER STORY BY: Meagan Kinley
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EDITORIAL CONTRIBUTORS
Letter to the Editor Shelley,
“The City ” El Paso Magazine welcomes your comments. Please send letters to “Letters to the Editors” 5925 Silver Springs Dr., Suite A El Paso, Texas 79912, or email the editors. Phone number: (915) 500-5730. Fax: (915) 500-5732. Letters addressed to The City El Paso Magazine become the property of the magazine, and it owns all rights to their use. Letters may be edited for space.
All rights to the contents of this magazine are owned in full by the magazine and may not be reproduced in whole or in part without written permission from the Editors in Chief. Views expressed herein are those of the authors and advertisers and do not necessarily reflect the opinion of the ownership or management of the magazine. All rights reserved.
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Felipa Solis, Jannet Bustillos, Grace Neuhaus, Michelle Cromer, Patrick Martínez, Meagan Kinley, Josh Sanchez, Michael Graham, Vic Poulos, Brittany Sawrey, Joann Wardy, Natalie Rosales, Erika Lopez, Candace Vasquez, Jose Soto, Laura Werthmann, Matthew Wilkson, Amanda North, Matthew Abraham, Adair Margo, Audrey Tolliver, Nick Houser, Eddie Cepeda, JoLene Keipp, Valentin Sandoval, John Del Rosario, Ashleigh Martin.
PHOTOGRAPHY Dav Anmed, Robert Corral, Tommie Morelos, Billy Ray Jr.
INTERN Sara E. Flores, Audrey Tolliver, Denisse Limas
CREATIVE SUPPORT Theresa Guerra, Ibrahim Sánchez
The Heart Of El Paso
August, 2014
1122 Airway Blvd. | El Paso, Texas 79925 | (915) 771-5083 | hoyfoxvw.com www.thecitymagazineelp.com
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August, 2014
“Always wear an invisible crown, and if you treat yourself like a queen you will attract a king.”
EDITOR-IN-CHIEF W
e all wear different crowns, I’m the
graceful ice skater training for the Olympics; and
“Queen” of my office – or so I’d like
she depends on sponsors just like pro golfers.
to believe. I’m the “Queen” of my
So what makes her different than the athletes of
home; OK maybe I live in fairytale land –
today? Get to know her and you will find out there
sometimes I’d rather wear the crown of a princess
is no difference. We’ve all heard the press make
because “Queens” have responsibilities.
fun of pageant girls. The truth is anyone can make ridiculous statements when put on the spot,
What a misconception I had about the world
holding that “unforgiving metal monster” we call
of pageant queens. Like most, I grew up not
a microphone. My point is many of these girls
understanding the pageant world. There’s a
have a plan and the pageant world is part of their
negative connotation to beauty, assuming that
pathway to fulfilling a larger goal, giving them the
women only get one gift: beauty or brains. The
edge they need to attain a platform for change.
more we as a society evolve and learn to accept
Let’s face it; if two potential hires stood in front
those who might have both of these gifts, we
of you and one had the title of Miss USA on her
understand that oftentimes there is more to a girl
resume, the Queen would get the second look
than meets the eye.
because, deep inside, we all know the mixture of beauty and brains can be a dangerous advantage.
Two years ago a Queen in training walked into
The world needs women of all gifts. Women who
my office. She wanted The City Magazine to
aren’t afraid to use the assets they have to help
sponsor her for the Miss El Paso Pageant. Pretty
them become successful.
she was, a diamond in the rough, with the determination of a hungry lioness – seeking out
This 2014 “We” The City Magazine cheered Miss
those who would help polish her into the Queen
Victoria Sinclair on as she won the coveted title –
she is today. Those of you who know me well
guess you could say I’m a little competitive myself.
know that I’ve had a special love for our newly crowned Miss El Paso, “Queen” Victoria Sinclair,
My advice to Victoria? Be the woman you want to
for some time now. She taught me to appreciate
meet, and remember that the only time a woman
what winning queens go through. Women of all
is helpless is when her nail polish is drying, and
backgrounds come together to compete for one
with that mentality all else will fall into place. Wish
thing, the crown. Ask her why she competes and
her luck as she travels to compete at Miss Texas.
she’ll tell you she likes competition – just like a football player, only she plays in high heels. She
This girl gives beauty a good name.
works out everyday, starting the season with two-a-days. She eats healthy, putting nothing (OK, almost nothing) into her body that a college track star wouldn’t. She practices her form, her smile, her walk, and prepares her wardrobe like a
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August, 2014
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Sophisticated
BRIDAL GUIDE
Contemporary
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2014 MEDICAL ISSUE THE
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Meet El Paso’s
WOMEN IN BUSINESS
Wedding Inspirations
Spring
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August, 2014
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August, 2014
LOCALLY 89 OWNED BUSINESSES
contents 24
The City Presents
By: THE CITY
Profiles
42
34
VICTORIA SINCLAIR
Where are They Now?
Zen and the Art of Motorcycle Adventure
Coming Soon: El Paso’s Own Touch City 3D Digital Wall
By: MEAGAN KINLEY
By: JOHN R.P. DEL ROSARIO
By: MEAGAN KINLEY
Miss El Paso Texas 2014
The City
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The City
46
Creating the Perfect Cup 2Ten Coffee
The City
Soles Collide: Rocketbuster Boots Meets California Vans Co.
By: EDDIE CEPEDA
The City
48 58 Magical 64 70
New to the Scene The Art of Hiram Huerta By: JOLENE REZA KEIPP
By: JOSE SOTO
The Cit y
The City
The Art of Giving
By: ERIKA LOPEZ
75
INSURANCE PROFESSIONALS PROF ILES By: THE CITY
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Music UTEP’s
in the ins Mounta eater Dinner Th
Hidden Gem
IVER EY TOLL By: AUDR
84
The City
Creating The Benito Juárez International Monument By: NICK HOUSER
78
The City
The Heart of Pro-Musica
By: VALENTIN SANDOVAL
80 Spirituality
By: FELIPA SOLIS
110 The City
West Texas BBQ Smoked Therapy By: EDDIE CEPEDA
Rituals: Navigating Creative Energy By: MICHELLE CROMER
114 The City
El Paso on Etsy A New Kind of Market
By: BRITTANY SAWREY
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August, 2014
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August, 2014
LOOK
The City
Tulasi
THE
Gopalan
120
122
Presenting Miss El Paso Texas 2014 and Miss El Paso Texas Teen 2014
Miss El Paso Texas Teen 2014
130 The City
By: MEAGAN KINLEY
135
A Safe Haven for Movie Buffs Alamo Drafthouse
The City
By: AMANDA NORTH
By: AUDREY TOLLIVER
138
His Prerogative
and
out
Fancy Meeting You Here
By: NATALIE ROSALES
140
Beauty
By: MATTHEW WILKSON
How to Repair Your Summer Hair
By: MATTHEW ABRAHAM
144
146
The City
The Genius of
TomLea in Washington, D.C. By: ADAIR MARGO
152
Fitness
Body Art A Few Fun Ways to Stay Active By: PATRICK MARTINEZ
10
154
Travel
Etiquette
Parental Advice on Keys to a Successful Date By: JOANN WARDY
143 151 Love
Unexpected Adventures: Re-visiting Your Hometown
Rules When You’re in a Relationship
By: MEAGAN KINLEY
By: JANNET BUSTILLOS
Astrology
The History of Tarot Cards By: GRACE THE PSYCHIC LADY
136
156
Wine
158
Food
162
Investment
The Art of the Wine Label
Tomatillos The Tiny Mexican Tomato
A Choice: Taxable or Tax-Free Income in Retirement?
By: VIC POULOS
By: ASHLEIGH MARTIN
By: TRAVIS HUGHES
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August, 2014
The Contributors
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3
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5
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7
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1) Michael C. Graham 2) GRACE The Psychic Lady 3) FELIPA SOLIS 4) Meagan Kinley 5) MICHELLE CROMER 12
6) DAV ANMED 7) Victor Poulos 8) JANNET BUSTILLOS 9) Josh Sanchez 10) PATRICK L. MARTINEZ
August, 2014
11) Robert Corral 12) Candace Vasquez 13) ADAIR MARGO 14) Amanda NOrth 15) Brittany Sawrey www.thecitymagazineelp.com
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August, 2014
For full contributor bios go to www.thecitymagazineelp.com
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16) Erika Lopez 17) AUDREY TOLLIVER 18) Jose Soto 19) NICK HOUSER 20) EDDIE CEPEDA 14
21) JOLENE KEIPP 22) matthew Abraham 23) VALETIN SANDOVAL 24) JOHN DEL ROSARIO 25) Tommie Morelos
26) joann Wardy 27) Natalie Rosales 28) Matthew Wilkson 29) Laura Werthmann 30) ASHLEIGH MARTIN www.thecitymagazineelp.com
August, 2014
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m i s s e l pa s o t e x a s 2 0 1 4
August, 2014
THE SOFTER SIDE OF THE CITY’S
Reigning Queen Miss El Paso Texas 2014
VICTORIA SINCLAIR | By: MEAGAN KINLEY photography by: DAV ANMED |
W
e’ve all heard Mahatma Gandhi’s
of humility and love. She is eager to credit
really interested me; as the first Latina to
inspiring quote, “Be the change
her success to the many people in her life,
be crowned Miss USA, it was amazing to
you wish to see in the world,” but
who she says, have helped her every step
see someone reach that level of success,
very few people ever live up to the mission
of the way. “First of all, I wouldn’t be here
who like me, is proud of the Latina beauty.
and vision behind Gandhi’s challenging
today without my mother. She is everything
When I looked at her I saw beauty, poise, and
ideal. But in our own city of El Paso, there
to me and I owe who I am today to her,”
intelligence – beauty queens are very well
are amazing young people right here in our
said Victoria. Victoria’s mother, Liz Sinclair
rounded, they are women of the community,
midst, seeking to create equality, encourage
has held numerous positions for different
they are involved and do everything they can
opportunity and give hope to all. Victoria
charities all over El Paso including the
to create real change. As I grew up this was
Sinclair is one such woman, known most
YWCA, and most recently as the chair of the
always in my mind and I think it’s what really
recently for her new title as Miss El Paso
Polo Real Tournament this past May. When
lead me to pursue Miss El Paso.”
Texas 2014; Victoria is so much more than
it comes to Victoria’s heart of service, the
your average beauty queen. With a vision
apple certainly hasn’t fallen far from the tree.
Victoria grew up with Harring and other
for El Paso that includes expanding and
She would also like to thank Laura Rayborn
powerful women as her role models. With
developing the city’s YWCA programs and
who has given so many young women a
direction and guidance from her mother,
empowering women everywhere, Victoria is
platform in the pageant world to become
Victoria dived into volunteering for various
using her platform as the new Miss El Paso
the best possible versions of themselves.
organizations around the city from a very
to pour into the city she knows and loves.
Victoria also admires the great Laura Harring,
young age. It was here that she developed
a former Miss El Paso, Miss Texas, and Miss
not only her fervent love for the people
When talking to Victoria about her journey
USA (1985). “When Laura Harring won Miss
of El Paso, but also her vision to make an
to the crown, it’s easy to sense her spirit
USA, it was so inspiring. As a woman she
impact in the lives of the young women of
www.thecitymagazineelp.com
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August, 2014
“When Laura Harring won Miss USA, it was so inspiring. As a woman she really interested me; as the first Latina to be crowned Miss USA, it was amazing to see someone reach that level of success, who like me, is proud of the Latina beauty. When I looked at her I saw beauty, poise, and intelligence – beauty queens are very well rounded, they are women of the community, they are involved and do everything they can to create real change. As I grew up this was always in my mind and I think it’s what really lead me to pursue Miss El Paso.”
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August, 2014
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August, 2014
the YWCA. “I’m a Y girl and I’m so proud of
model walks with attitude and a beauty queen
up. So I looked ahead and used the experience
the organization and our chapter. Working
walks with grace. I love modeling, but there
to push myself towards Miss Texas,” said
and learning from Dr. Sandra E. Braham
is something truly special about pageants. In
Victoria.
(CEO of the YWCA El Paso Chapter) has
my first pageant, and I came in the Top 15.
Abraham and countless other supporters
been amazing,” Victoria said. Victoria not
Doing that well my first time really gave me
Victoria not only achieved Top Bikini Body but
only volunteers for the YMCA, but she is the
so much inspiration to keep going. Back then,
also came in the Top 15 at Miss Texas USA.
YMCA’s youngest benefactress.
I knew I had a lot of growing up to do, so I
“It was an amazing experience and something
waited till I was ready and in 2012 I entered
I will always remember. I really owe so much
With these goals in mind and such a
my first Miss El Paso Pageant. It was such
to Matthew, he came into my life after Miss El
promising future, Victoria began modeling
an amazing year; I finished as first runner up.
Paso when I was doubting who I was and my
With
coaching
from
Matthew
ability, he turned me around and really helped
for different companies and boutiques here
me believe in myself.”
in El Paso from a very young age. Her first
But despite Victoria’s high hopes for the title,
real modeling job was actually with NoNo’s
2013 was not her year. When the pageant
Boutique on the west side. From there
rolled around the following June, Victoria
In these two pageants, Victoria showed
she participated in various fashion shows,
placed as the fourth runner up. Despite her
love behind the scenes. Shelley Mozelle,
and other charity events . . . but when the
happiness at coming in the Top 5, placing Most
a longtime friend and supporter of Victoria,
2009 Miss El Paso Teen Texas competition
Photogenic and achieving Top Bikini Body, she
personally knew of two different scenes that
rolled around, Victoria entered ready to
had still not realized her dream of becoming
occurred, “It was on the first night of the
take the stage by storm, eager to transition
Miss El Paso Texas. “I would be lying if I said
2013 pageant. Victoria saw one of the other
from model to titleholder. “The difference
that the loss wasn’t hard. But at the end of the
competitors crying in the dressing room. She
between a model and a pageant girl is: a
day, I knew I had to keep going, I couldn’t give
went over to the young girl and consoled her,
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August, 2014
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29
August, 2014 asking why she was upset. The girl explained she’d ridden the bus to the pageant, and that none of her family had been able to show up; she was there alone. It wasn’t until further into the conversation that Victoria discovered that the real reason the girl was upset was because the pageant had run late and she had missed the last bus back – leaving her stranded without a ride. Upon realizing this, Victoria immediately stepped in and personally took the young woman home. It was inspiring to know the love her heart felt for a stranger, but that was not the only time that Victoria showed true humility and kindness to her peers. The following August, at the Miss Texas USA pageant in Houston, we were biting our fingernails on the day of interviews because Victoria had not come down from her hotel room. We were sure she was going to be late, miss her interview and at the very least have critical points deducted — but at the last moment, Victoria and her roommate came down the stairs just in time. We learned later that Victoria had stayed upstairs with her roommate to help her get ready, knowing that she was potentially risking her own points. You see, her roommate didn’t have any professional coaching and she didn’t know how to prepare. Victoria stayed to give the girl her best shot at the same title she herself was vying for. For these reasons and a million more, I have always believed in Victoria. She has a heart of gold that is reflected on the stage when she performs. This young woman is tough, but she is never too busy or too involved to stop and help her fellow woman.” After competing in Miss Texas USA, Victoria returned home to El Paso and immediately began pouring herself into training for the 2014 pageant season. When in pageant prep mode, her daily training consists of completing one hour of cardio a day, one hour of weight training, as well as other activities like hot yoga, Pilates and more. “I really love working out whenever I can. Yoga is amazing because it helps with stress, but I also play tennis, run and go on hikes — we have amazing trails here in El Paso, the Franklin Mountains are 30
www.thecitymagazineelp.com
August, 2014 beautiful and any excuse I get, I go up there and soak in the beauty of our great city,” Victoria said. Victoria also makes almost all of her own food, ensuring that she eats clean. “In the last few months, I made a little fitness guide that’s geared toward young women. It was neat because it started as just something I did for myself to stay on track, but it’s been really cool because my friends and others have asked to use it too. It feels good to help other people on their journey to full health.” But even this year’s preparation was full of its own challenges. “Three weeks before Miss El Paso Texas 2014, I tore a ligament in my ankle — I had taken every step to be healthy, but one day I was helping my friend move some boxes and I just slipped. I was in a brace for all the rehearsals, and for those three weeks I wasn’t able to do cardio or wear heels, but I just kept going. I knew this was just another test. On the first night of the pageant I woke up and felt better than I had since before the injury. It was such a blessing. Happiness is a choice, we can either fall to the mishaps when things don’t go as planned – but what really defines us is how we rise from these challenges. Failures mold us into who we are and who we become in life.” Victoria’s positive attitude carried her through the pageant and when the winner for the 2014 Miss El Paso Texas was announced on the final night, Victoria came out on top. After years of hard work, Victoria was at long last the Miss El Paso Texas titleholder she had always dreamed of becoming. “I am so honored to be Miss El Paso. It is a dream come true for me and I am so excited for the year ahead. As a woman of faith, I am thankful to God for this opportunity. Everything in my life – all the struggles, challenges – all of it was preparing me for this and what lies ahead. When people look back on me as a titleholder, I want them to remember me as the Miss El Paso that really made a difference in her community. I want www.thecitymagazineelp.com
31
m i s s e l pa s o t e x a s 2 0 1 4
to be remembered as the Miss El Paso who did everything she could to get involved. This title is not about going to events and wearing pretty dresses, being in these pageants and attaining this platform is a privilege and I don’t want to take it for granted. I want to start a movement of service, learning and serving other people. If the young women of this city see that I’m excited, maybe they can get excited about service too. I hope to spread the message that life is not worth living without purpose.” Looking ahead, Victoria is still hard at work training for Miss Texas USA, which will occur on Labor Day weekend of this year. Following in her hero, Laura Harring’s footsteps Victoria admits that she has her eye on the state title. “I’m a Texas girl through and through and I’m very proud of my state. To be the best, you’ve got to beat the best. I would love to win a title in the state I believe in most.” In the meantime, we at The City Magazine are so excited to see Victoria as the 2014-2015 reigning Miss El Paso Texas. As her year in the crown begins, we are eager to watch as she creates real change in not only our beautiful city, but for women everywhere. Congratulations, Victoria Sinclair! We look forward to your promising future. Miss El Paso Texas and Miss El Paso Teen Texas is directed and produced by Laura’s Productions. Laura Rayborn is the official state recruiter for the Miss Texas USA and the Miss Texas Teen USA pageants. 32
August, 2014
August, 2014
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August, 2014
Where Are They now?
Z en and the Art of Motorcycle Adventure | By: JOHN R.P. DEL ROSARIO Photos courtesy of: ALEX CHACĂ“N | www.ExpeditionSouth.com wwww.ModernMotoDiaries.com
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August, 2014
I
f you live on the Internet the way that some of us do, then you’ve probably seen some of this year’s most viral videos: the cast of the stage production of The Lion King singing an acapella “Circle of Life” on a plane trip while boarding, the surprisingly erotic Tatia Pilieva short film “First Kiss” that documented 20 complete strangers making out with each other and you may have come across one titled “Around the World in 360 Degrees - 3 Year Epic Selfie.”
The man behind the GoPro is Alex Chacón, El Paso native who famously took the whole “I’m going on a spiritual journey to find myself” idea to a whole new level by selling pretty much all his belongings (his car, clothes, TV, XBox and all), leaving only enough to take with him on his motorcycle, which he rode through 30-plus countries and plans on continuing to many more. All of it can be found on Chacón’s website, modernmotodiaries. com, which documents the routes he’s covered, the routes he
amid the exotic places he traveled, but it’s important to this magazine.
plans on covering into next year as well as other pictures and
Hell, it’s important to this writer.
videos of his great adventure. It’s probably the most uniquely El Pasoan story I’ve come across: A Also on the site are links to the numerous pieces already written
man sells his possessions (per Jesus’ recommendation in Matthew
about him concerning his viral videos. Most of the pieces simply dealt
19:21, on that Catholic tip) and sets out to discover the world on
with the undertaking, itself, wanting to know how he got the idea,
motorcycle. The latter suggesting that El Paso, like its one-time name
some of his most challenging and eye-opening experiences. But only
“Paso Del Norte,” was not a destination or a place to settle, but
a few took the time to mention where he was from: El Paso, Texas.
rather, a point of transition. But for Chacón, it’s not only a transition of travel, but also a transition of a state of mind, a state of oneness with
Perhaps it wasn’t important for the KTLA in Los Angeles or New York
the people of the world. There is an apparent Zen-quality to his voice
Daily News or even USA Today to point out Chacón’s point of origin
when you hear him speak that you wouldn’t expect from someone
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August, 2014
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August, 2014
where are they now?
who undertook a cold and calculated degree like a Bachelors of Science with a Biomedical focus. He’s seen things, man. He’s looked death in the face multiple times. One could phrase his “oneness” with the world to being a certain “chemistry” that he now has with the world. To borrow a few lines from a popular TV show that may or may not be about the manufacturing and black market sale of methamphetamine, “... Chemistry is the study of matter, but I like to think of it as the study of change.” For a man who still has a ways to go, he’s already made an impact on the world (“3 Year Epic Selfie” already has nine million views). But this was only a byproduct of setting out to let the world have an impact on his life. I asked him how his interpretations of some choice words have changed due to that very impact. These are my findings in our study of change:
T ourist “Before it had one meaning. Now, it has an unlimited number of meanings. I’ve gone from first understanding ‘tourist’ as a young kid exploring Las Cruces or Mexico. I thought it was the definition for everyone who explored somewhere. Now I’ve come to realize that there are more than tourists: there are adventurers, explorers, and visionaries. And ‘tourist’ is just a very broad category for different types of people who travel different places that aren’t their home.”
Souvenir “Before the word ‘souvenir’ meant something very tacky and common most people would bring back from their journey. Now souvenir has become an idea of what you choose, depending on the individual, what to bring back from whatever journey you’re undertaking, whether that be material, life experiences, a spiritual enlightenment. It’s about what you choose to learn and experience.”
Sacrifice “‘Sacrifice’ used to have a negative connotation to me. It used to mean losing something. Now it is an understanding that my choices have consequences and come with a certain liability and influence to what I choose to do, coming with byproducts that I have never thought before.”
Customs “‘Customs’ used to mean the people who protected the border. It also meant the normal, traditional lifestyle of a culture. What customs means to me now is the philosophy that places and people are governed in different ways: in a legal way and in a deeply culturally rooted way that are both as legally binding as the other.
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August, 2014
Hygiene “‘Hygiene’ used to mean brushing my teeth every night. Hygiene now means understanding that I can go three weeks without a shower if I needed to.”
P ossession “‘Possession’ used to be what belonged to me. ‘Possession,’ now, is understanding that the more possessions you have, the greater amount of suffering you tend to have. The more you separate yourself from your possessions, the freer you are, and the happier you are.
Humidity “‘Humidity’ used to mean what Houston felt like. ‘Humidity,’ now means what India felt like in the summer, which is Houston times 10!”
Sle ep “‘Sleep’ used to mean what you did at night. ‘Sleep’ to me, now, is what I do the least.”
Diet “‘Diet’ used to mean my mother trying to lose weight. ‘Diet’ to me now means getting adequate nourishment wherever in the world I may be. Diet changes rapidly in every country you go to. Diet now means chicken feet to pigs feet to grass jelly dessert to fried pigs
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blood to guinea pig to llama meat to snails to snake.”
Immigrant “It used to mean to me anybody from Mexico. What it means to me now, is myself and everyone else on this planet. I’ve realized that we all are immigrants. Even at home, you’re still an immigrant to somebody. The way you got to where you are is because someone in your past was an immigrant. We’re all connected in this world because we’re all immigrants to all lands, so I believe the world belongs to all of us.”
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August, 2014
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August, 2014
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N O O S G N I M O C
August, 2014
Museum of Copenhagen
El Paso’s Own
Touch City 3d Digital Wall | By: MEAGAN KINLEY |
Digital Wall Copenhagen 42
Sample ideas for Digital Wall El Paso www.thecitymagazineelp.com
e l pa s o ’ s o w n 3 d d i g i ta l wa l l
August, 2014
t
echnology
has
continued
to
Created
by
Allen
Smith
from
Gibson
change the way we interact
International in New Zealand, the wall itself
with the world around us. From
is exactly what it’s name entails: a three
the simple ways we make our
dimensional digital wall that the museum
another,
will use to chronicle the past, present and
and chronicle our histories and stories –
future of El Paso in a whole new way. The
technology and its progressive development
touch screen wall enables one to browse city
is even changing the way museums are
documents, pictures, and other information at
interacting with the cities around them.
the simple slide of a finger. Citizens can even
In the spirit of this innovation, the city of
upload their own pictures and documents
El Paso has big news: coming soon the El
to the wall via smart phone, computer,
Paso Museum of History will be opening
tablet, etc. and comment to create dialogue
the Touch City 3D Digital Wall. For those
between themselves and others. On top of
of you who don’t know, this wall is unlike
the permanent wall, which will sit outside of
anything El Paso or the rest of the world has
The Museum of History in a beautiful pavilion,
ever seen before. In fact the technology is
there will also be a large mobile wall that can
so new, only one other city (Copenhagen,
travel to classrooms and other places within
Denmark) in the entire world has it.
the city. But how did such a marvelous piece
food,
communicate
with
one
Glimpse of El Paso Digital Wall development
Jette Sandahl and Julia Bussinger
of innovation find itself in development here www.thecitymagazineelp.com
43
e l pa s o ’ s o w n 3 d d i g i ta l wa l l
August, 2014
in El Paso? Julia Bussinger, The Museum of
and global praise for it,” Jette explained. “Of
History’s Director, is the one person El Paso
course we have a lot of people who come
has to thank for the Touch City 3D Digital
to us and say, ‘we would like to do one of
Wall coming to the Sun City.
these’ — and when Julia and the city of El Paso came to us and said, ‘we want one of
“As a museum professional, I am very curious.
these,’ I initially thought, ‘yeah, yeah, they all
I travel and constantly check other museum
say that.’ But Julia was persistent and found
websites and conferences for ways museums
a way, and here we are today about to break
are bettering themselves,” said Julia. “I
ground on El Paso’s own interactive wall.”
am also a member of various committees like CAMOC (International Committee for
However, the road from idea to actuality was
the Collections and Activities of Museums
a long one for Julia and others who wanted to
of Cities). Being a member, I receive their
bring the interactive wall to El Paso. “When I
electronic newsletters. It was on the cover
initially found out that it would cost three million
of one of these that I first saw a piece on the
dollars for our city and The History Museum
Copenhagen wall, the project really intrigued
to install it, I was told, ‘no way.’ But I did not
me so I started looking at the website. After
give up, there is always a way,” Julia said.
studying up on it, I thought, ‘wow wouldn’t
Persistence is what enabled Julia and El Paso
it be wonderful if we had something like that
to bring the project where it is today. In 2012,
here.’ Not long after that, CAMOC announced
El Pasoans voted to pass a nearly half-billion
that they were going to have the Berlin
dollar bond called the Quality of Life Bond. This
CAMOC/International Council of Museums
bond gave Julia and the museum the funding
Annual Conference in November 2011. So I
they needed to make the wall become reality.
went to Berlin and meet with Jette Sandahl, the Copenhagen Museum Director, and
“In Copenhagen, we are a small museum,
learned more about the Copenhagen wall.”
not one of the great museums of the world,” said Jette. “But for us to have somehow
44
It was through Jette that Julia learned about
created this wall that has taken on a life of its
the logistics of building a wall of this kind.
own, which in some ways is beyond the life
“Since we built the interactive wall in
of the museum — it has a much larger scope
Copenhagen, we’ve gotten a lot of attention
and a much stronger global presence than www.thecitymagazineelp.com
August, 2014 the museum has ever had before. Seeing the way El Paso voted for it was a beautiful thing. America is the only place in the world where you can go out and ask the people, ‘do you want one of these’ and hear 75% of them say, ‘yes!’ No other political system that I know of does that. Seeing Julia’s journey from our first meetings and correspondence to the passing of that bond has been a big eye opener for me and very interesting to watch.” The planning and development of the Touch City 3D Digital Wall is nearly complete and the wall itself is expected to open later in the fall of 2014. With so much to look forward to as The Museum of History and Downtown El Paso continue to grow and change, we are sure to see even more change after the wall opens. The wall itself will create a whole new way for interactive kinesthetic learning, and perhaps an enriched dialogue between the people of El Paso and the intricate history of our city. “For us, the wall signaled a brand new way of working,” said Jette. “We now work much more closely with the people of Copenhagen. Through the wall we have transcended the boundaries and borders between the literal walls of the museum and the people outside them. Our interactive wall is a platform to a brand new way of looking and interacting with the world. It has transformed the museum, and the museum is no longer the same. So you, El Paso, you will not be the same after this wall.” “We are so excited and looking forward to the opening. We owe so much to Jette and the Copenhagen Museum, and also to Allen Smith and Gibson International for being so much more than technical support for this project,” said Julia. “But we are also so thankful to the people of El Paso and the Community of Chance, a community group that supports the museum – to everyone who has helped us make the Touch City 3D Digital Wall, we are so thankful and we look forward to see how it will change El Paso and enrich the lives of those who live in this great city.” www.thecitymagazineelp.com
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NEW
August, 2014
TO THE SCENE | By: JOLENE REZA KEIPP |
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August, 2014
h i r a m h u e r ta hen Hiram Huerta moved into his first new home he did what
every
new
homeowner
does, he went shopping. He took on the exciting and sometimes daunting task of deciding what his domestic style would convey and tried to select items that would set the tone and communicate his personal panache. However, when it came to choosing artwork to adorn his walls Huerta was left unsatisfied by what commercial stores had to offer. Huerta remembers, “I was unsuccessful at finding items I liked so I decided to try to make my own. It’s taken me 29 years to discover I could paint.” tree in the throws of Fall with fiery red leaves Huerta is an El Paso Firefighter and after his
overpowering its trunk that is so detailed it
shifts you can find him amid paintings and
could be an example of mixed media art. He
frames in his garage that he converted into his
attributes his creations to ideas for paintings
studio. “When I first started I had canvases
he’d like to see on a canvas and eventually
laid all over tarps on the floor and now I have
up on the walls and in the homes of people
tables and easels to work on,” he describes.
all over the city.
The first time Huerta committed to a painting it was a monochromatic monster image of a
Huerta often thinks of others. A year ago
woodland scene measuring over six feet in
he was tired of seeing the conditions that
length that took over 10 hours for the novice
some children in Juárez were living in and
artist to complete. Once completed Huerta
had an idea. He began gathering donations
had a bittersweet feeling. He had connected
of children’s shoes, clothing, and toys and
enthusiastically to his image and was
delivered them once a month to a struggling
surprised by his creativity and determination
neighborhood across the border. What began
to complete his project. He understood that
as a small scale project has now grown to
his need to create was a substantial part of
a larger effort with up to six cars packed
who he is.
with school supplies, diapers, toys and other essential items. His group will soon be
During his search for prints Huerta became
recognized as a non-profit organization called
drawn to triptych art, which are works of art
Promised Smiles.
usually divided into three sections. Some triptych panels can be carved and hinged
His resolution to paint pictures he finds
together to create altars. “I love multiple
important, coupled with his need to reach out
pieces forming one image; you can space
to the surrounding community has no doubt
them however you want,” he explains.
began to manifest itself boldly on his canvases.
One of Huerta’s three paneled illustrations
Huerta’s desire to create art to enhance his
shows a dimly lit panorama with an image of
home and to bring joy to others is evident
strong-silhouetted wild horses approaching
in his elegant execution and the thoughtful
while another two-paneled piece is an edgy
simplicity of his images. For full gallery views
contemporary cityscape with its skyscrapers
visit http://hiramhuerta.weebly.com.
reflecting in the water that surrounds it. One distinctive painting is the image of a lone www.thecitymagazineelp.com
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August, 2014
48
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Article Title
August, 2014
Creating the Perfect Cup | Written and Photographed By: EDUARDO CEPEDA |
where they roast, blend, and create unique flavors with imported raw coffee beans. We navigate some isolated, unpaved roads in the area near La Tuna Federal Prison; I’m vetted by a security guard in a shack and finally arrive to a sea of warehouses in what can only be described as some sort of postapocalyptic industrial site. OK really, it’s just the place where semis go to load goods, including what I’m pretty sure is the entire world’s supply of condensed milk. Reality aside, I like to imagine Mad Max could come
I really try to avoid fast food chains. You
I admit it. I need coffee in the morning. I’m
around the corner at any moment, battle-
know all the usual reasons why. But today, I
starting to feel all the signs: irritability, a slight
worn and demanding a cup of micro-brewed
find myself alone, in the parking lot of a fast
headache, and heavy eyes - and the diluted
coffee for him and his crew before they head
food chain in Anthony, TX after skipping my
brew will do the job, right? I resist the urge
off to their next battle.
coffee this morning. I never skip coffee. But
and when the day is over, I’ll look back in
it was a deliberate act today - in giddy, but
shame for even being tempted.
reserved anticipation of an impending coffee
Steven leads me into their own little warehouse. The smell of coffee is so
adventure. And yet, for the few minutes I
Saving me from middling coffee, my rescuer
pronounced, my eyes water and my body is
wait for my guide, who agreed to meet me at
arrives: Steven Svoboda, co-owner of 2Ten
taken with excitement. It’s such a piercing
this parking lot and lead the way to the coffee
Coffee Roasters. He waves from his Jeep,
aroma, my girlfriend will tell me hours and a
promised land, all I can think about is walking
signaling me to follow him in my car. We’d
shower later that I still smell like coffee. The
into that broad-brush food chain and ordering
agreed to meet here, lest I got lost in the
smell will taunt me for another hour until I
a pot of insipid coffee.
dirt roads leading to his coffee warehouse,
have my first cup of the day.
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49
C r e at i n g t h e p e r f e c t c u p
August, 2014
I look around and see the great coffee
like BLDG 6 and Seham’s, who each have their
growing regions are represented: Chiapas,
own ways of doing things. “They have good
Brazil, Ethiopia, among others. But it’s not
coffee,” says Svoboda as he orders a press
just coffee beans I see. There are all kinds
pot of BLDG 6 coffee over lunch. He seems
of sophisticated contraptions that, along with
sincere as he pours himself the second cup.
this desolate setting, lead me to imagine these guys as sort of the “Pinkman” and
What started as the explosion of the four
“Heisenberg” of coffee. Who would think
dollar coffee has slowly brought out the
this much goes into roasting your cup of joe?
discerning fanatic in many. No longer content with whatever roast the local Starbucks was
Like micro-brewed beer, locally sourced
selling, people took to their own roasters and
organic food, or even organic and additive-
began creating their own specific blends.
free wine, coffee has in recent years
The nuances in each roast are countless,
undergone a sort of renaissance. “Third
and then comes the task of blending them to
Wave” coffee, refers to the newfound
create the perfect cup.
passion for “micro-roasted” coffee. The first wave was Folgers and Maxwell House; the
“It’s trial and error sometimes,” says
second was the Starbucks my-special-order-
Nathan Estrada, head roaster and operations
is-so-specific-I-have-it-memorized craze; and
manager. “And a lot of cupping,” which is the
the third wave now revolves around specially
coffee roaster’s equivalent to a wine tasting,
blended micro-roasts by small independent
and it can be just as fun and rewarding
companies run by coffee enthusiasts.
as one, albeit providing one with a much different “buzz.” It involves spoons, slurping,
Before you get the wrong idea that 2Ten and
and spitting. I haven’t been handed a full cup
other small roasters are some anti-corporate
yet so I skip the spitting part.
types, constantly pointing out how the “big guys” don’t do anything right, know this:
Svoboda, now the epitome of a coffee fancier,
they understand how important said “big
didn’t start off that way. “I didn’t know
guys” were in ushering this movement.
anything about coffee except that I drank it to wake up.” But sometimes, the universe
“Before Starbucks, a lot of people only knew
aligns itself - allowing you an opportunity
Folgers or Maxwell House. They educated
to discover a new passion. That’s what
a lot of consumers and got really big,” says
happened when he was offered a chance to
Svoboda. “We’re trying to bring it back down
take over the Bear Creek brand. A name and
to the level of ‘this is coffee from Guatemala
logo change later, and 2TEN was born.
that this farmer hand picked and we’re roasting it and helping to tell the story of
“2TEN
comes
from
the
approximate
this specific coffee.’ We want to bring that
temperature the water comes out of a boiler
art form back. We want people to know just
before you do a manual pour over, which is
HOW many people were responsible for the
pretty much bringing back the dance of the
cup of coffee in their hands.”
barista. It’s a craft rather than just turning around and pushing a button and having a
We all know that the days of only associating
cup of coffee,” adds Svoboda.
premium coffee with places like rainy Seattle are
50
long gone, but El Paso? Is there really a market
You craving coffee yet? Chances are, you’ve
for artisanally roasted coffee in a city where a
probably already had some 2TEN blends at
95-degree day can be considered sweet relief?
restaurants like Crave, Tabla, Star City or a
How much better is this coffee really?
handful of other local favorites. 2TEN will often
Consider the success of other local roasters
work with the chefs to create specific blends to www.thecitymagazineelp.com
August, 2014 fit with the nuances of the restaurants’ menus. If you do get to taste their coffee, you’ll go back for more. 2TEN also has a standalone drive-through coffee shop in West El Paso. “The storefront IS our marketing campaign,” says Svoboda. The next day, I’ll find out just how true that is as I find myself driving from my home in Kern to the Westside just to pick up a very special cup of joe. I guess that wouldn’t be so spectacular, unless you knew just how much I hate to drive. By the time my visit is winding down, I’ve lost track of how many cups of 2TEN’s myriad of blends I’ve had, though no two cups have been brewed the same way. From manual pour over, to something delightful to watch called “the siphon” or “vacuum” method, to the more familiar espresso machine, each method has it’s own taste. “We’re trying to roast specific coffee for specific brewing devices,” Svoboda tells me as he explains how an upcoming coffee shop (Hillside Coffee & Donut Co.) he’s helping set up at Montecillo will have all the brewing devices he shows me. The shop will also have an in-house cold brew device for iced coffee, which takes over 11 hours to brew. As I drive away from the store, hands powerfully grasping the steering wheel, jaw clenched so tight my teeth begin to grind, and heart racing like a Triple Crown winner; I realize I’ve far surpassed my daily limit of caffeine. I make it home and pace around for a minute. Almost like some kind of drug addict, I grind some beans they gave me to take home. I brew it in my French press, and stare at it with both fear and admiration. Should I really drink this? As I do, I realize two things: a) my heart may explode at any minute now and b) this is the best coffee I have had in as long as I can remember, and I’m eternally grateful there are two maniacs out in the desert, making sure I’ll always have a steady supply.
51 www.theitaliankitchenelpaso.com
August, 2014
SOLES COLLIDE Rocketbuster Boots Meets California Vans Co. 52
| By: JOSE SOTO photography by: TOMMIE www.thecitymagazineelp.com MORELOS |
Soles Collide
August, 2014
A
t the end of Union Plaza, the
notice of Rocketbuster. On any given day,
entertainment district that lures
Nevena and her team will be approached by
in
it’s
out-of-towners and businessmen traveling
high-profiled dining and nightlife
the country and ask to get a glimpse of their
experience, sits a somewhat more
eccentric and adventurous shop. With an array
somber locale. It’s easily mistaken
of boot samples, elaborative designs that are
for a forgotten warehouse and
being worked on and fascinating memorabilia
simply overlooked. You wouldn’t know it
and displays, touring the shop is nothing out
from simply looking at it from outside, but
of the ordinary for the crew. They’ll also get
Rocketbuster Boots, located at 115 Anthony
interesting emails about wanting to purchase
Street right across from The Garden, is
crazy detailed boots or wanting to partner up
anything but that. To the contrary, what
for collaborative purposes. That is exactly what
happens inside Rocketbuster isn’t somber
happened when Nevena received an email
at all. It’s a rambunctious and prolific venue
from Steve Mills, the head director of the Vans
where boots are definitely made for walking,
Classic Department. “It read: ‘Hello Nevena,
walking right out of the place. Rocketbuster
this is Steve Mills from Vans. I’m not sure if
is a premium, handcrafted and custom-made
you’ve heard of us,’” said Nevena. “I was like,
boot shop that has been catering to everyone
um, yeah! Of course we have!” she jokes.
many
El
Pasoans
with
from the locals, to the elite and famous, to the likes of lawyers and businessmen
Nevena and the rest of the Rocketbuster
and all eccentrics alike for over 25 years.
crew excitingly awaited the arrival of Steve
Rocketbuster provides them with the unique
Mills and his fellow Vans employees, who
pair of boots done by hand they prefer over
wanted to visit the shop and learn about
boring ones off the shelf.
their craftsmanship, even develop their own designs. “They were extremely excited to
Headed by Nevena Christi, or “bosslady” as
visit our shop, learn about what we do for
she likes to call herself, Rocketbuster employs
a week and make their own boots. And we
ten unique talented individuals from different
were excited to have them,” said Nevena.
walks of life. They are a worldwide renowned company, known for their artisan skills, unique
The Vans crew came in on the week of June
designs and - doesn’t hurt to add - the hosting
24th, checked in to the nearby DoubleTree
spot to the “worlds largest boot,” according to
Hotel and quickly emerged themselves in the
the Guinness Book of World Records.
crafty work that is boot making. “They made their own designs and we taught them how to
It’s to no surprise that the Vans Company,
cut their leather and things of that nature,” said
the California based shoe empire, would take
Nevena. “It was a lot of fun for both parties.”
www.thecitymagazineelp.com
Soles Collide
August, 2014
The Vans crew stayed for an entire week in El Paso, working hard with the Rocketbuster crew to learn the vintage yet dire art of boot making. “They loved what we did and the hands-on crafting of our boots,” said Nevena. “It’s definitely an art form that is dwindling down,” she added. “In our city alone, we are virtually the only ones left that make boots the old-fashioned way. That’s why Vans thought we were so interesting and wanted to come down and see it for themselves.” The Vans crew’s boots are still being made, with three pairs already set for shipment. “Our boots have a 4-5 month wait time, since it’s hands-on and custom made,” said Nevena. “Not only are we working on their boots, but our other clients as well.” She adds that Rocketbuster makes roughly about 400 boots a year, a number that might seem high but not as prolific as warehouses that produces machine-made boots. “It’s something we take pride in. It’s crazy, yes, but we love doing it.” While El Paso might be Rocketbuster’s home (fun fact: Nevena disclosed that El Paso is the Boot Capital of America), it’s influence and clientele doesn’t stop here. Rocketbuster is essentially an internationally recognized maker of boots for those who like their 54
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August, 2014
boots made the way they were supposed to. “It’s one of the most Americana aspects of American life,” Nevena says. “Yes, it’s a lot of intense and insane work, but someone has to do it and we’re proud to be the ones to,” she said.
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Art The of
August, 2014
| By: ERIKA LOPEZ photos courtesy of: LAS ARTISTAS |
58
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I
t is without a doubt that El Paso offers a unique perspective when it comes to showcasing its local talent. El Paso features a taste of diverse and rich culture that makes up both traditional
and non-traditional galleries, markets, and festivals to support local art and its creators, so it is only natural that El Paso is home to one of the nation’s most distinct and high-quality events of its kind. El Paso Las Artistas has been a part of our great city’s legacy by exhibiting a mission statement that provides arts education opportunities and promotes an appreciation for fine craft and art within El Paso and southern New Mexico communities. Las Artistas began as a non-profit organization in 1970 as a backyard art show - organized by a handful of well-known and highly respected female artists in the community known as Las Artistas; Charlotte Nobles, Margie Melby, Jean McGee, Connie Dillman, Cheryl Derrick, Ferne Schrier, Tita Sterling, and Tita Lyle. These enterprising El Paso artists sought out a venue for showing and selling their work, and quickly the public began to take notice as the show grew in popularity and in number of exhibitors. What was then a one-day event expanded to a two-day event after exceeding capacity at the Union Depot. Today, the two-day event has become an annual juried art show held at the First Presbyterian Event Center in El Paso, which focuses on bringing the “best of the best” from El Paso and New Mexico – and from as far away as Tennessee and Missouri. Las Artistas Art & Fine 59
August, 2014
Crafts Show showcases the work of many
received federal 501(c) (3) status which
nationally known artists as well as emerging
enables the organization to apply for grants.
and accomplished local artists including metals
“We’ve been funded the last three years by
and ceramics studies from the University of
the El Paso City Museum Cultural Affairs
Texas at El Paso to display and sell their work.
Department as well as Texas State Council of
“We’ve made a lot of progress with our show
the Arts,” said Jack Bristol, Board Member
in the last few years and we’ve successfully
at Large. Adding, “For the past 22 years
put together the highest quality show in the
Las Artistas has been supporting Rachelle
southwest area. If you look at Las Cruces
Thiewes’ Metal Program at the University of
and El Paso we’re the only super high-quality
Texas El Paso” and clearly, UTEP along with
show in the area. The show is something that
Rachelle Thiewes are immensely grateful for
we’ve worked really hard to bring up to a high
the funding and the opportunities that Las
standard of craftsmanship. We have exquisite
Artistas creates for its students. In a letter
paintings, amazing jewelry, and a whole variety
addressed to Las Artistas Board Members
of women’s clothing,” said Rick Elkin, Show
written by Thiewes, she expresses her
Chair.
gratitude by stating, “The opportunities Las Artistas provides for my students are for
In recent years, Las Artistas has achieved an
many of them life altering. Several students
enormous stepping stone toward their pursuit
received the Awards of Excellence this past
to provide arts education opportunities by
year due to your contributions.”
providing scholarships for arts education in area institutions. In 2002, Las Artistas was
So what lies in store for the upcoming 2014
incorporated as a nonprofit organization in the
Las Artistas Art & Fine Crafts Show? You
state of Texas and in 2009 the organization
can certainly expect some familiar faces, www.thecitymagazineelp.com
The art of giving
August, 2014 local and nationally respected names in the
on their work. Many will sell their work for
art community, as well as emerging artists.
the first time, in fact, most for the first time.
Among the elite artists showcasing this year,
Aleksander’s first show in this country was
is well-known artist and Las Artistas Arts
actually at Las Artistas,” said Rick Elkin.
& Crafts Show alum, Aleksander Titovets, whose work you might recognize in the
As the new era of Las Artistas emerges, so
White House as he was commissioned to
does the transformation of the show. “This
paint the First Lady, Barbara Bush’s portrait
year we have added a few new aspects to
in 2008. Titovets is a native Russian, modern
the show. We have added a children’s tent,
impressionistic
Paso
live music, and trucks from the Food Circus.
resident. Titovets specializes in figurative and
We are also incorporating a demonstration
landscape paintings drawn from memories of
booth this year. We will be having wood
his homeland and influenced by the desert
tuners actually turning wood and I believe
Southwest. “One of the unique aspects of
we will also have a blacksmith and a painter
this partnership that we have had for more
demonstrating this year,” explained Rick and
than 20 years with University of Texas is
Beth Elkin enthusiastically. Show information
that students from the metals program and
can be found at lasartistas.org
painter,
turned
El
ceramics program are invited to participate in Las Artistas annual art and craft show every November and art students are given the opportunity while still in school to test their ideas, create art, and learn to place value
the jewel of the westside
Where dreams come true.
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November, 2013
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l a c i g a M c i s u M
August, 2014
in the
s n i a t Moun
R EY T | By: AUD
64
OLLIVER
rtesy of Photos Cou
THEAT DINNER P E T U E TH
ER |
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I August, 2014
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www.thecitymagazineelp.com
magical music
at a l get to th r but we’l te a e th ?) is f th st didn’t it present o our intere y d e rk a p That s ly three little later. ran for on ellout and s a s a sus w show, “Je The show a second n o g in tt r pu e faculty days. Afte as a hit, th w h ic h w ater erstar,” dinner the Christ Sup opening a t a th d e liz a a smart at UTEP re would be s u p m a c ater tly on dinner the permanen is the only r te a e full th a is us with move. Th rsity camp e iv n U a t da ar round. in the worl nctions ye fu t a th s ployee staff of em ater have dinner the e th t a s w e sho als. The Many of th ice music s of Tim R n o ti c en u d sical writt been repro n of a mu o ti c u d ro nt p Musical.” most rece SS The E H C “ s ice wa nth in s last mo by Tim R ree week th r fo of n ra ductions “CHESS” three pro n e e b e hav DT in birth of U July. There since the P E T U for t a rd in 1990 “CHESS” tional awa a n a n o Tw ard was 1983. UD S.” The aw S E H C “ f r for uction o edy Cente their prod n F. Kenn h o J e th t a presented
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65
Article Title
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66
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August, 2014
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August, 2014
an experience like no other
Top of the Chase Building 201 E. Main St., 18th Floor 915.544.1135 The ElPasoClub.com Marcelo Guerrero for Event Information Bobby Lyons for Membership Information
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67
November, 2013
Upon first glance this group has little in common, but looking closer you see they share a passion for making El Paso a better place to live and work. As president of Homegrown El Paso and partner of Dodds Wealth Management Group, Charles Dodds III created an idea that would help Homegrown El Paso, the city and many locally owned businesses. Homegrown El Paso's mission is to ensure that locally Homeg owned businesses have a voice and to educate the public on the importance of "Buying Local". As competition continues to grow the ability to strengthen this message becomes increasingly important. Charles began by sharing his idea with Joseph Nester, a fellow board member of Homegrown El Paso and owner of Kaizen Construction Services. Joseph agreed that the music festival would work but they would need help. The time and expertise to put this together would require a partnership with a company that can undertake an event of this size, so they started looking. It wasn't until meeting Bill and Jerry with 915 Live Productions that the idea started coming together. Bill and Jerry have worked together in event production for over 17 years and music has been a lifelong obsession for them. For Bill it started at the age of 13, when he began working as a DJ in the late 70's playing quincea単eras and neighborhood weddings. For Jerry it began at age 5, when he taught himself to play the bass guitar left handed. Bill and Jerry's paths crossed in the late 90's where they began frequently working together at the same concerts and in 2010 decided to go into business. Since then, 915 Live has helped in the production of almost every major concert and event in El Paso. When Charles and Joseph approached them about the music festival the pieces quickly fell into place.
syn er gy noun: the interaction or cooperation of two or more organizations, substances, or other agents to produce a combined effect greater than the sum of their separate effects.
Homegrown El Paso, 915 Live Productions, Rudolph Dealerships and Visit El Paso are proud to bring you the First Annual "Beats and Eats" music festival September 13th at Ascarate Park. We will have an expected attendance of over 30,000 people, a 30 foot Eiffel Tower, two stages, great food, activities for the kids and music for all tastes. Tickets are available now at epbeatsandeats.com and ticketfly.com. 68
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November, 2013
• 2 Concert Stages • 30ft. Eiffel Tower • Approx. 100 Vendor Booths • Carnival Rides • 2 VIP Stage Areas • Large Beer Garden • Fireworks Display Fi • Plenty of Parking Spaces • Car Show September 13, 2014 Ascarate Park 6900 Delta El Paso, TX 79905 epbeatsandeats.com
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Photography & Design by JC PRODUCTIONS ©2014 69
Hidden
G
70
ms
August, 2014
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August, 2014
BEHIND THE WALLS How the San Carlos is Building a Bright Future | Written and photographed by VALENTIN SANDOVAL |
Within the burrows of downtown El Paso,
reason why there’s a niche and a following
Ever since 2010, San Carlos has been
next to our tallest high rise, rests a building
in Marfa, Texas for this type of architecture,
under the new leadership of one of the
that’s been nimbly and beautifully anchored
one ought to venture on into this classic, yet
next generation of Flores’, Anthony Flores.
in El Paso’s history for 94 years. The San
quaint building. It intrinsically lends itself to
He earned his degree from Texas State
Carlos building, off of Campbell and Texas,
the mixed use concept that is taking place
University in Mathematics, and in his late
used to be an old BF Goodrich tire shop from
with projects such as 1st Avenue Lofts, The
20s, decided to return home and build off the
back in the 1920s. The Flores family bought it
Glass Box, Loft Light Studio, Union Plaza’s
legacy his grandfather had started. The first
in 1985 and added an elevated tower as well
The Mix, and the growing Monticello project.
thing Anthony did was tear down two of the
as an entirely separate wing for added office
It is truly a bustling time for some of our best
old attorney offices from upstairs and convert
space—but through it’s almost 100 years of
young minds, going off into the bigger world,
them into his living quarters. He could have
wear and renovation, the building itself has
and in a Joseph Campbell, “Hero’s Journey”
easily bought himself a home with a nice
continued to retain its history and richness.
manner, all venturing back. Like sacred
backyard but instead decided that12-foot
familial local heroes, this new generation
high ceilings, original hard wood floors, and
The style of the building itself, feels
returns with gifts intended to accentuate the
the spaciousness affiliated with downtown
uniquely El Paso. Though it’s not a Trost
intrinsic nascent energy of the region. They
urban living appealed to him more. It has a
and Trost building, it’s still infused with that
build their visions in the hopes of bettering
minimalistic feel that you’d associate with a
Art Deco-Pueblo revival style that covers
the quality of life for current and future
loft project in any larger downtown market.
the quintessential El Paso architectural
generations that decide to build their lives in
The difference is that it pulses with an edge
landscape. To understand the style and
our frontier borderland.
that could only be felt and lived in El Paso.
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71
PROUDLY SERVING EL PASO FOR OVER 13 YEARS!!!
hidden gem
August, 2014
YOUR LOCAL, WOMAN-OWNED, FAMILY OPERATED, INDEPENDENT, OFFICE SUPPLY BUSINESS Downstairs, he decided to build a restaurant with an international flavor, the 501 Bistro. The 501 has been resilient and endured the slow downtown traffic that seems to go dormant for most restaurants after 3pm. Only now it’s bustling, with all the obvious downtown changes, the Chihuahuas baseball stadium, and the circumventing of the city employees into the old El Paso Times building right next to the San Carlos. Changes were made to the 501, and now people can enjoy an open patio area, where he intends to bring in more live music and live theatre performances to add symmetry to the downtown experience
Proud Member Since 2006
within the context of the San Carlos. Now, more people are frequenting the 501, and appreciating the fact that there is genuine culinary diversity simmering within the heat of our desert city.
For more information Please call: (915)-838-0026 or e-mail: customercare@ 72 pencil-cup.com
First Friday, always seem to pop, and are distinct and often the most honest way to experience the cultural and artistic pulse that a city or a district can conjure up. These once a month gatherings are akin to farmers markets where you get to taste www.thecitymagazineelp.com
August, 2014 what’s genuine to the soil of the region. Approximately four years ago, Anthony and company decided to start up La Parada. La Parada is El Paso’s first, First Friday. One of the interesting aspects to this cultural gem is that it was birthed by El Paso’s younger generation. They gathered and organized themselves and once a month throw one of El Paso’s coolest parties. Various jewelry makers, painters, sculptors, tattoo artists, DJs, performers, poets, filmmakers, and musicians gather for hours to celebrate the ethos of our region. The event has even garnered attention from other Texas art collectives. For example, the respected F6 Collective from the Dallas-Fort Worth area came to do a full out showcase of Central Texas art, music, and poetry at the San Carlos the day before last years Neon Festival. National events have even been held here, such as the Irish Mexican Alliance, a New York based organization started by internationally acclaimed author and filmmaker TJ English. English, a five time New York Times bestselling author, decided to make El Paso and the San Carlos his location for his event where he brought in other internationally recognized authors and poets like Phoenix’s Myrlin Hepworth and New Mexico’s legendary, Jimmy Santiago Baca. As well as many great local and national acts such as Radio la Chusma, Abstract Rude, DJ Drez, Uncle Elroy, and Frontera Bugalu, to name a few. Altogether the San Carlos building and the movement of local and national creative forces around it, have helped ensure that our region’s cultural thread will continue to make broader and more interesting forays and contributions to what the new America is and will be, with respect to the city of El Paso. This building’s storied past has paved the way for a new and exciting future here in the Sun City, and I don’t know about you, but I can’t wait to see what’s next for our amazing borderland.
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73
INSURANCE PROFESSIONALS PROF ILES
Yvonne Ruiz Farmers Insurance “We are here to protect your loved ones, your assets, and your future.” Yvonne Ruiz, owner of the El Paso branch of
offer auto and home insurance, but we also
Farmers Insurance, has been with Farmers
provide business insurance, life insurance and
as an Insurance and Financial Agent for the
we even offer financial services,” explained
past 14 years. Yvonne got her start after
Yvonne. In fact, Famers has specialists to help
graduating from the University of Texas at
you create college funds, mutual funds and
El Paso in 1997 with a bachelor’s degree in
IRAs to better invest and protect the financial
business administration and a marketing
interests of you and your loved ones.
minor. After graduation she landed a job in corporate America. But after three years and
On top of the large number of services that
the realization that she wanted to do more,
Farmers provides, what really sets this branch
she decided to leave. With faith and hard
apart is Yvonne and her team’s dedication to
work, in April of 2000 Yvonne began her
excellence. “We have a very experienced
career with Farmers Insurance as a tenacious
and licensed staff; most of us have been
new agent and has been with the company
here over 10 years,” Yvonne said. “When we
ever since. With so much experience, it’s no
complete a policy, we like to individualize the
surprise that she and the rest of her team bring
package as much as possible. Our priority is
the best customer service in the business.
serving the needs of each and every client.”
Yvonne Ruiz Farmers Insurance 5845 Cromo Ste. 2 El Paso, Texas 79912 (915) 581-9034 Fax: (915) 581-9054
Offering so much more than just home and car insurance, Yvonne is always pushing the limits of what they can do and give to their
Registered Representative, Farmer’s Financial Solutions, LLC 30801 Agoura Road, Bldg. 1, Agoura Hills, California 91301-2054 (818) 584-0200 Member FINRA & SIPC
customers. “Most people think that we only 76 | SPECIAL ADVERTISING
By: MEAGAN KINLEY photographed by: TOMMIE MORELOS
Flor Caballero Lynch Flor & Associates Insurance Agency “Think of insurance, think of Flor.” residential and business patrons alike. Lynch’s
client receives once they’ve begun their
experience, Flor Caballero Lynch has grown
motto is, “Think of insurance, Think of Flor.”
insurance journey with Flor & Associates.
her business into an independent staple,
Lynch and her team are consistently educating
Lynch cultivates her client relationships and
catering to her client’s insurance needs.
themselves in new product development,
has grown with some of them for the past 24
Beginning as an intern right out of college
coverage definitions, and updated policies.
years. As an independent agency every client
she worked her way up to become a
Listening to the client’s needs, and having
is welcome no matter the circumstances,
business owner five years later. The El Paso
a large portfolio of products to offer are
high risk or financial budget, big or small. Flor
native has incorporated her experiences,
essential in caring for their clients. Lynch is
& Associates is an independent insurance
knowledge, and strengths to be successful
on the Board of the Independent Insurance
agency working for the good of El Paso.
throughout these past four years of owning
Association of El Paso, which helps educate
Flor & Associates Insurance Agency.
independent owners and agents on the
Flor Caballero Lynch
Through
dedication,
hard-work
and
trends of the trade. She is also on the board
Flor & Associates Insurance Agency
Previously owning an Allstate Agency and
of the El Paso Mortgage Bankers Association,
421 Executive Center Blvd., Ste. B
mortgage brokerage for nine years each,
and was awarded Affiliate of the Year in
El Paso, Texas 79902
Lynch maintains well-rounded credentials for
2013. With the health of the community in
(915) 996-9799
every insurance opportunity. Flor & Associates
mind Lynch describes her in-depth education
www.florinsurance.com
offers different companies like Traveler’s,
of the Affordable Care Act, and her ability to
Mercury and Progressive among others. The
aid and answer all questions on Obamacare.
agency’s well rounded departments including, life, health, disability, commercial, auto, home,
Product knowledge, great customer service,
and transportation insurance that caters to
reputable insurance carriers are what every
By: LAURA WERTHMANN photographed by: TOMMIE MORELOS
SPECIAL ADVERTISING | 77
The Heart of El Paso
Pro-Musica | By: FELIPA SOLIS |
78
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Pro-musica
August, 2014
E
l Paso Pro-Musica is on a mission.
their eyes while they listen to the music so it
The organization brings the finest
can help them to dream.”
musicians in the world to the region to perform in unforgettable
The El Paso Chamber Music Festival saw not
concerts, but the real heart of the mission
only performances featuring 20 internationally
of EPPM is education and to make music
known musical artists, it also saw a very
accessible to all.
special trip to the University Medical Center Children’s Hospital. Zuill played soothing
Artistic Director and world-renowned cellist
Bach and the Brahms lullaby for the tiny
Zuill Bailey has forged a special direction
infants and their parents in the Neonatal
to ensure that everyone, primarily the
Intensive Care Unit. It is scientifically proven
region’s youth, can experience all music
that soft sounds, like the ones that emanate
first hand. The most effective way to reach
from the cello, can improve oxygen levels
out is through collaboration with other arts
for the babies. “This was a once in a lifetime
organizations. “El Paso is so rich and filled
opportunity I hope to repeat, it was amazing
with culture. Working together we can forge
seeing how the music was affecting the
a great future artistically,” Bailey said.
infants and their parents. It was a joy for me to experience as a cellist,” Bailey extolled.
This year meant even more interesting collaborations throughout the community
While all of the artists who visit El Paso work
and hundreds more El Pasoans were
to touch the community through musical
exposed to the beautiful music. This year
outreach, it was a monumental moment
music was used to soothe and heal. For the
for EPPM when the Juilliard String Quartet,
first time, Zuill performed on a special stage
one of the finest quartets in the world were
at the El Paso Museum of History for a group
joined by members of the Esperanza Azteca
of women, all probationers in a lockdown
Youth Symphony from Juárez. The concert
Residential Substance Abuse and Treatment
was held at the Scottish Rite Temple in
Program for drug and alcohol addiction. This
downtown El Paso, and the eager musicians,
particular field trip was organized by State
teachers and chaperones walked across the
District Judge Bill Moody. “It gives me
bridge to delight in the sounds of Juilliard.
great happiness to help provide comfort and guidance through classical music,” Bailey
Along with special outreach at Senior
said. The women were treated to the concert
Centers, libraries and especially “Bach’s
followed by a tour of the facility merging
Lunch,” the free noontime concerts that are
visual art and music together.
held every January at the El Paso Museum of Art during the El Paso Pro-Musica Chamber
This year, El Paso also ventured into the
Music Festival, the joys of classical music
Southwest Key Project whereby immigrants
can be heard in the most amazing venues
between the ages of six - 17 make their way
throughout the region. “I am so grateful for
to our border from countries throughout
our beautiful city and so appreciative of the
Central America in search of a family in
support of the arts,” Bailey said. “All of us
America.
Project
working together have shaped El Paso to be
provides them with schooling and a place
a city like no other.” Next season promises to
to stay. Zuill performed two concerts to not
be equally exciting!
The
Southwest
Key
only introduce the cello, but to help them understand that “music knows no borders.” This cellist closes his eyes while playing and encourages others to do the same. “I always ask young audiences like this one to close www.thecitymagazineelp.com
79
Rituals: Navigating Energy | By: MICHELLE CROMER |
michellecromer.com @emichellecromer 80
michellecromer www.thecitymagazineelp.com
spiritualit y
August, 2014
When I got my first book contract, I hired a
My nightly rituals include:
writing coach. It proved to be the best thing
1. Drinking a cup of ginger tea.
I could have done. One of the many things
2. I listen to the same album on my iPod.
she taught me was that our rituals set us
3. Reflection
free. Rituals are a well-defined sequence
4. Pray
of words and actions designed to focus attention, establish significance, and achieve
If you want to incorporate daily rituals in your life
a beneficial result.
and don’t know where to start, think about what grounds and calms you. Maybe a walk through
Creativity is a mysterious force that flows
your neighborhood with your dog could help. Or
through us and I have found that daily
writing in a journal or yoga. Try something for
rituals feed this force and reward me with
a week and see how it feels to you and don’t
increased inspiration and an expanded sense
be afraid to adjust. Rituals are personal and
of gratitude for the creative process. Rituals
meaningful and they become a talisman that
tend to speak more directly to the body,
will help guide you to your objective.
engage the soul, and attract the spirit. The biggest difficulty in any type of ritual is the We all face deadlines and they are stressful
willingness to submit to the routine. And yet,
for anyone, especially in a creative field
without this kind of bowing of the intellectual
because we have to dig deep into our
head, the benefit doesn’t accrue. Rituals
brain and produce something that comes
open us to the eternal that allows people to
straight from our hearts, all within a
bathe in the deep waters of continuity.
particular timeframe. Having daily rituals in our lives help to ground us and to navigate
My rituals help me surrender to the process,
the overwhelming pressure we all feel to
and they have certainly helped other writers.
produce the best work possible.
In order to stave off stalling, French novelist Victor Hugo wrote both “Les Misérables”
Rituals have a profound impact on me. They
and “The Hunchback Of Notre-Dame”
soothe, slow me down and remind me to be
completely naked. Being nude meant he
in the present moment. I am the mayor of
wouldn’t be able to leave his house. As a
crazy town when I am on a writing deadline
safety measure, he’d also instruct his valet
and the process of my rituals seems to talk
to hide his clothes.
my spirit off the ledge, and they provide a space for balance. Rituals bring me out of
The late great Maya Angelou, author of “I
my head and back into my body and I look
Know Why the Caged Bird Sings” had many
forward to them each day.
rituals. She would get up at 5 a.m. and check into a hotel, where the staff was instructed to
My daily rituals include:
remove all stimuli from the walls of her room.
1. Walk into my office at the same time
She took legal pads, a bottle of sherry, playing
every morning.
cards, a Bible and Roget’s Thesaurus, would
2. Turn off my phone and turn down
write 12 pages before leaving in the afternoon
the sound on my computer.
and edit the pages that evening.
3. Pray
www.thecitymagazineelp.com
4. Meditate
Daily rituals are like scheduling calm in
5. Light a lavender candle. The smell
your calendar. Creative people need more
sends a message to my brain that it is
downtime than the average person, and
time to create.
setting time aside each day for a meaningful
6. Write. That seems obvious but even
ritual is crucial in order to reconnect with our
on days I don’t feel like writing, I write.
creative energy. 81
November, 2013
82
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November, 2013
83
August, 2014
Creating The
Benito Juรกrez
International Monument for El Paso | By: NICK HOUSER photography by: JODY SCHWARTZ |
84
www.thecitymagazineelp.com
August, 2014
“Benito Juárez – From Child to Man,” the
Zapotec Indian boy from the mountainous
fourth monument in the XII Travelers series,
village of San Pablo de Guelatao in the state
is being created by the sculptors, John and
of Oaxaca. Next to him is a sheep, one of the
Ethan Houser. It will be five feet high, 10 feet
flocks that he is tending. Although he speaks
long, and mounted on a concrete base. It
little Spanish and cannot read, he possesses
will depict two representations of Mexico’s
a book, which inspires him to pursue an
greatest president. The larger figure is
education. He glances toward his future in
President Juárez in El Paso del Norte during
the direction of President Juárez. This will
the cold winter of 1865, the bleakest period
be the first monument that represents both
of the French Intervention. He is seated on
Juárez the child and the man. It is also unique
a bench in the patio of his headquarters’
because it will commemorate the president’s
adjacent to the historic Guadalupe Mission.
nine-month (1865 -1866) residency in El Paso
He is about to write a letter to his wife and
del Norte, which was the capital of Mexico.
family who had fled to the United States. He
grieved and declared that Mexico lower the
is determined to liberate his nation, which
A major component of the monument will be
national flag. The bronze medallion will be
was achieved two years later. On September
a bas-relief medallion of the contemporary
mounted near the monument on a wall panel
16, 1888, El Paso del Norte honored its
presidents - Benito Juárez and Abraham
with two plaques – a bilingual storyboard and
special guest by re-naming their town –
Lincoln. Although they never met, they
a donor’s acknowledgement plate.
Ciudad Juárez.
admired and supported each other when their
Opposite the president, is Benito, the www.thecitymagazineelp.com
nations were beset by civil war. Upon hearing
In 1862, Emperor Napoleon III demanded that
of Lincoln’s assassination, Juárez was deeply
Mexico, which was beset by internal strife, pay 85
Benito Juárez
August, 2014
evacuated the town as the French troops
asylum at Hart’s Mill in Franklin, but he politely
advanced. On August 14, they arrived in Paso
refused stating that he could never abandon
del Norte where the villagers welcomed them.
Mexican soil as long as foreigners occupied it. Twice he was invited to attend gala events in
Juárez faced a dilemma - his presidential
his honor at Fort Bliss, but he politely declined.
term would expire on November 30, and a
As a result, the first party that Juárez attended,
national election was impossible because of
was hosted by the Fort Bliss staff in the home
the French Intervention and civil chaos. On
a prominent family in Paso del Norte. However,
November 8, in Paso del Norte, he signed
the second festivity was held at Fort Bliss, the
a decree that extended his term without an
president did not attend but sent his cabinet
election because of conditions of war.
and military officers.
On November 13, upon receiving news that
During Juárez’s residency at the Pass, he
the imperialists had abandoned Chihuahua
defended
City, Juárez and his entourage left Paso
and assisted the local communities. He
del Norte and returned to the state capital.
oversaw the construction of a new irrigation
However, the enemy, in a scheme to ensnare
system to replace the old one that floods
Juárez, was sequestered near the town. On
had destroyed. Upon its completion, the
December 9, Juárez became aware of the
Paseños proudly named it La Acequia de
devious plan and hastily escaped with
Benito Juárez. He personally met with people
his companions. On December 18,
of the Paso del Norte District, including the
Mexico
against
the
invaders
they entered the Pass, where, once
Chamizal residents who told him that recent,
France its delinquent debts.
again, the residents enthusiastically
severe floods had drastically changed the
England and Spain issued a
welcomed the Citizen President.
channel of the Río Grande bank placing many of their homes and farms on the north bank,
similar ultimatum. The three By the spring of 1866, Maximilian’s
countries sent naval squadrons
which then were claimed by the Americans.
to the port of Veracruz to buttress
empire
The
Juárez initiated a formal complaint to the U.S.
their claims. Mexico promised
French were withdrawing from
Government requesting that this boundary
to pay the debts, requesting
Mexico while the Mexican
controversy be resolved. Nearly a century
that payments be temporarily
people were reclaiming their
later, it was mutually settled with the support
delayed.
England
democratic republic. On June
of Presidents Kennedy, Johnson and López
responded by withdrawing their
17, Juárez, waved a final
Mateos. The Chamizal National Park in El
fleets.
However,
refused
and
Spain
and
was
collapsing.
goodbye to his gracious hosts,
Paso and the Parque Chamizal in Cd. Juárez
invaded
the Paseños, and headed
commemorate this settlement and symbolize
Mexico. He made Ferdinand
south where he eventually
Napoleon
the friendship between the two nations.
reunited his country.
Maximilian, the Archduke of
The creation of the Juárez statue was launched
Austria, his puppet emperor of While at the Pass, President
Mexico. In 1864, Maximilian naively
in June 2012, when the Magoffin Family Santa
accepted the throne and relocated to
Juárez
town’s
Fe-Chihuahua Trail Monument (1846-1847),
Mexico where he initially received support of
inhabitants and with their American neighbors
featuring Susan Shelby Magoffin, was unveiled
conservatives who wanted to re-establish the
from San Elizario, Franklin (now El Paso),
in Keystone Heritage Park. The first two
old feudal system.
and Mesilla. On several occasions, Fort Bliss
monuments were Fray García de San Francisco,
made
friends
with
the
officers crossed the river to met Juárez. In the
Founder of the Pass of the North (1659); and
In May 1863, as the French army approached
summer of 1865, Secretary of State, William
The Equestrian, Juan de Oñate (1598).
the nation’s capital, Mexico City, President
Seward, anticipated that Juárez might retreat
Juárez and his staff retreated north from one
to the border. He requested that government
The XII Travelers non-profit Board, under the
town to another. By the summer of 1864 he
officials
Republic.
guidance of its president, Max Prestridge, is
reached Chihuahua City. On August 5, 1865,
General James Carleton, commander of the
developing this project with the support of
Juárez and his cabinet, with a military escort,
Department of New Mexico, offered Juárez
Adair Margo and the Tom Lea Foundation and
86
support
the
Mexican
www.thecitymagazineelp.com
August, 2014
Ray Mancera, who is active in municipal and international affairs. A Binational Committee also supports project development. The
FA M I LY- O W N E D & O P E R AT E D
Hunt Family Foundation has generously assisted funding the initial production phase that has been achieved, which included the monument’s maquette (small-scale model) and two Juárez busts. Funding is augmented by the sale of limited edition bronzes (tax deductible) that include the maquette, two busts and the medallion. When fully funded, the monument will take ten to twelve months to complete. It is most appropriate that El Paso have a monument, in close proximity to the border, that commemorates President Benito Juárez. Contact the XII Travelers:
NORTHEAST
AMERICAS
4631Hondo Pass (915) 594-4424
9521 N. Loop Dr. (915) 858-4408
WEST
EAST
480 N. Resler (915) 587-4408
750 N. Carolina (915) 594-4424
Max Prestridge, President XII Travelers Memorial of the Southwest, Inc., 501 (c) 3 PO Box 12464 El Paso, TX. 79913
www.thecitymagazineelp.com
sunsetfuneralhomes.net
87
L O B
LOCALLY OWNED BUSINESSES Profiles
By: ???? photographed by: ????
SPECIAL ADVERTISING | 89
Rudolph Dealerships Revered as one of the oldest dealership
Chevrolet has also partnered with Reynolds
Rudolph Chevrolet General Sales Manager
families in the El Paso area, Rudolph
Home and the Pictures of Hope program,
Debbie Bowden has been a loyal employee
dealerships have built a staunch reputation
which gives disadvantaged children the
since 1975. “When I started here, I was
and have become known around town for
opportunity to express their hopes and
going to UTEP and worked part-time in the
their straightforward way of doing business
dreams through photography.
service department shagging cars and driving the shuttle,” she said. “At the time, there
and employees that have worked for the “We believe in helping make our community
weren’t many women in this business — but
a better place,” said Rudolph President
Mr. Neessen gave me an opportunity to learn
Rudolph takes pride in conducting every
Matthew Neessen. It’s because of this
several aspects of the car business. From
aspect
company 40 plus years.
integrity
conviction that the dealerships have also
shuttle driver, I became the warranty clerk …
and honesty, all while providing a family
sponsored and donated to dozens of local
then I became the inventory clerk. Next, I
environment
charities and organizations.
had the opportunity to learn the finance and
of
its for
business both
with
customers
and
insurance department, then sales.”
employees. “El Paso and the surrounding areas are our home, and we can’t imagine a
In keeping with their belief of continuing to
better place to live and do business in,” said
promote and help the people of their city, owner/
According
Rudolph President Dennis “Denny” Neessen.
presidents Denny and Matthew Neessen —
Department Manager Carlyle Meeks, the
son and grandson of founder M.E. Neessen
Rudolph dealerships are known for their
In addition to all of the dealerships’ sponsorship
— also carry this tradition forward with their
reputation for doing the right thing. “With
of local events such as Movies in the Canyon
hardworking employees by promoting from
almost 26 years of being in the Rudolph
at McKelligon Canyon, the Rudolph Music
within and investing in their staff.
family, I’ve found that great companies are
Series at the State Line restaurant, Rudolph 90 | SPECIAL ADVERTISING
to
Rudolph
Honda
Service
honest, straightforward, and admit when By: CANDACE VASQUEZ photographed by: ROBERT CORRAL
This photo features Rudolph employees that have been with Rudolph more than 10 years. Standing in front is Henry Medina, who has been with Rudolph for 44 years.
a mistake is made. No smoke and mirrors.
Brian Lane, a finance processor and auditor
Rudolph Mazda East in 2009, Rudolph Mazda
That’s Rudolph! We’re not perfect. When a
for Rudolph Mazda West cites the Neessen
West in 2012 and Rudolph Volkswagen in
mistake is made it’s how we handle those
family’s commitment to employees and the
2013. With the exception of Rudolph Mazda
mistakes that set us apart from the rest,”
community as the primary reasons he likes
East, all of the dealerships are located on
Meeks said. “I’m proud to work for Rudolph
working at Rudolph. “I’m proud to have been a
El Paso’s west side at I-10 and Redd Road.
and to be part of the Rudolph family!”
part of this family for almost two decades, and
Rudolph Mazda East is located at I-10 and
I’ll continue to do so … it’s where I want to be!
Lee Treviño.
Rudolph Chevrolet Parts Manager Henry Medina is Rudolph’s most veteran employee,
Undoubtedly, Rudolph continues to flourish
having worked with the dealership for 44
with its presence of five dealerships because
years. “As a Vietnam vet, I’ve had only two
of the unparalleled trust and loyalty that its
jobs since 1968. I started at Rudolph as a
devoted staff continues to unwaveringly
runner, then sold parts over the counter,” he
provide. “We have the best automotive
said. In 1993, he attended GM’s University of
sales,
Automotive Management and was promoted
ANYWHERE,” said Matthew Neessen. “And
to parts manager in 1994. “Denny has always
we’re proud to live and work in a community
treated me, and all employees, like family.
with such great people. It’s our employees of
He’s always looking at a way of helping not
Rudolph that make us proud.”
service
and
repair
professionals
only the customer, but the employee.”
Rudolph Dealerships Rudolph Chevrolet - (915) 544-4321 Rudolph Honda - (915) 845-4321 Rudolph Mazda East - (915) 595-4321 Rudolph Maza West - (915) 845-8001 Rudolph Volkswagen - (915) 855-8500 Rudolph Body & Paint – (915) 351-7388 www.rudolphcars.com
Rudolph Chevrolet and Rudolph Body & Paint opened in 1960, Rudolph Honda in 2000, SPECIAL ADVERTISING | 91
Luis Javier Ruiz, LEED AP Border Solar
“Crossing to Clean Energy . . .” It takes a tremendous amount of vision and
Border Solar is helping El Paso homebuilders,
incredible tax credits for people who choose
a lot of hard work to change the world. With
homeowners and commercial customers move
to install these panels and financing is also
the growing need for efficient, renewable
towards a brighter future of energy efficiency
available to truly help the people of our great
energy becoming more of a national and
through energy audits, energy management
city save money, and ultimately own their
worldwide priority, locally-owned companies
integrations and solar energy deployment.
own electricity.”
like Border Solar have taken it on themselves to make the first important steps to reduce
Today Border Solar provides state-of-the-art
community green house gases and make El
solar panel technology to the Sun City for an
Paso a more energy efficient and eco-friendly
affordable rate, empowering the citizens of our
city. Border Solar was established in 2008 as
great city with an efficient energy alternative
a division of Southwest Sustainable Energy,
that can provide 100% of electricity to almost
LLC and created with the sole purpose
any home. A common myth people believe is
of developing Solar Energy Systems and
that solar power is only for the wealthy, but
technologies. The founders of Border Solar are
Border Solar has made solar power affordable
also the founders for SENERCON (Southwest
to the masses. “Solar energy is affordable
Energy Conservation), which became one
to anyone who has bought their own home
of the leading energy efficiency rating and
and who pays taxes,” said Border Solar’s
consulting companies in the nation. Altogether
LEED AP, Luis Javier Ruiz. Today there are
92 | SPECIAL ADVERTISING
Luis Javier Ruiz, LEED AP Border Solar 7365 Remcon Circle, B-202 El Paso, Texas 79912 (915) 875-1305 Fax: (915) 875-1308 www.bordersolar.com www.bordersolar.com.mx
By: MEAGAN KINLEY photographed by: TOMMIE MORELOS
Thelma Briffa
American Living Realty “I love this city. The housing market is strong and the entire real estate community is wonderful to work with.” Thelma Briffa, owner of American Living
unparalleled customer service, American
more competitive. El Paso is such a great
Realty, is one El Paso Broker that knows
Living Realty delivers the best in residential
place, and I am proud to be part of the real
the ins and outs of style and design. With
and commercial real estate. They also
estate market,” said Thelma.
a degree in fashion merchandising and
represent Schyuler Construction and are
19 years of experience in the real estate
expanding their rental division. Using the best
business, she truly has an eye for the
in new technology, Thelma gets her listings
industry. In 2006 when she went out on her
out into the public eye and sold. “I have
own and started American Living Realty, she
honestly been blessed with the best clients.
had no idea that she would experience the
The people here are wonderful to work with.
level of success she and her REALTORS®
We give our clients the best experience
Thelma Briffa
have attained today. Now, eight years later,
possible when purchasing, selling or renting
American Living Realty
American Living Realty has grown into a
a home,” said Thelma.
6633 N. Mesa St., Suite 102 El Paso, Texas 79912
strong boutique-style real estate business. “I have a network of amazing individuals, as
American Living Realty isn’t finished growing.
well as a network of strong title companies,
Last year, they doubled their annual sales
and reliable mortgage companies — we only
and they are expecting to do the same this
work with people who have proven their
year. “We are a goal-driven company. We are
dedication to our clients,” said Thelma. With
always looking for ways to make ourselves
By: MEAGAN KINLEY photographed by: ROBERT CORRAL
Phone: (915) 204-1234
SPECIAL ADVERTISING | 93
Dr. Cristina Radonic Palladino D’Right Weight Nutritional Counseling “Live a healthy, balanced life.” Dr. Christina Radonic received her medical
you something, we are here to educate and
each month and women losing 8%. She has
degree from the University of Buenos Aires
train people on how to live life at their optimum
even been honored by First Lady Michelle
in 1979. From there she continued her
health,” said Dr. Radonic. “I teach all the patients
Obama and her “Let’s Move” Campaign for
education and received extensive training in
how to eat well and why to eat well. The
her efforts and continued success. “My goal
nutrition at Argentinean Catholic University
body doesn’t just need some of the nutrients
is to give to the population of El Paso the
as well as training in obesity at Favaloro
we want to eat, our bodies need all of the
necessary knowledge so that they achieve
University. She has also studied immunology
nutrients — people talk about carbohydrates,
full health,” said Dr. Radonic.
and allergies at the University of Buenos
proteins, etc. but if they don’t know where the
Aires. Before moving to El Paso, she helped
nutrients are, they can’t choose the best foods.
more than 3,000 patients in Argentina take
Our mission is to help people find the balance
on their battle with weight gain. Today she
between portion and proportion.”
has 34 years of practice in medicine and D’Right
Counseling to ensure that the people of El
innovative program helps people achieve
D’Right Weight Nutritional Counseling
Paso achieve their weight loss goals.
the results they’ve always dreamed of.
5925 Silver Springs Drive Ste D
Dr. Radonic and the other professionals at
El Paso Texas 79912
“This business is absolutely different from any
D’Right guarantee that their weight loss and
(915) 585-7040
other weight loss program. At D’Right Weight
life style coaching is 100% effective, with
drightweight@gmail.com
Nutritional Counseling we are not trying to sell
men losing 10% of their corporal body weight
drightweight.net
94 | SPECIAL ADVERTISING
Weight
Nutritional
Counseling’s
Dr. Cristina Radonic Palladino
works diligently at D’Right Weight Nutritional
By: MEAGAN KINLEY photographed by: TOMMIE MORELOS
Laura Carrillo
Laura Carrillo Florals, Events and Gifts “Whether it’s designing an event or decorating a home, we can do it all … and more!” Born with the innate talent of artfully
her partner retired, Laura, with the help of her
creating floral arrangements and with a keen
daughter, decided to open up a business on
eye for design, Laura Carrillo has built her
El Paso’s westside. “Almost eight years later
successful business with a formula which
and over a thousand events the business
included humble intentions and hard work,
continues to grow and we have happily made
Laura Carrillo Florals, Events and Gifts
coupled with her unique talent. “I was born
El Paso our home,” Laura states.
5411 N. Mesa, Ste. 3, Peppertree Square
and raised in Ciudad Juarez, Chihuahua and
El Paso, TX 79912
started my floral design business from home
When asked what sets her business apart from
915.581.1877 and 915.585.8500
in the early 90s,” recalled Laura Carrillo. “My
other floral and event planning businesses in
www.lauracarrillo.com
home was always full of silk flowers and my
the area, Laura explained, “I believe that you
friends would ask me to make them some
have to love what you do; I only make things
custom designs, so that’s how I started to
that I think are beautiful so sometimes we have
sell my arrangements.”
to say no to certain ideas that are brought to the table. I love traveling and getting inspiration
In 1995, Laura and her friend decided to
from other places of the world, and I bring
open their very first store, Atelier, inside the
that with me whenever we design any event.
Poliplaza Hospital in Juarez. “That’s where I
I’m qualified to do any type of design work --
started to hone my fresh flower designs in
whether it’s designing an event or decorating a
weddings and events,” shared Carrillo. After
home, we can do it all … and more!”
By: CANDACE VASQUEZ photographed by: TOMMIE MORELOS
SPECIAL ADVERTISING | 95
Shane Dorney
Dorney Security Systems “We are here to serve our customers, as a company, service comes first.” Known for being the oldest family owned
client, Dorney Security Systems also offers
“We are here to serve our customers, as
100% local security company in El Paso,
a pricing matrix which offers Security and
a company, service comes first,” shared
Dorney Security Systems has broken through
Smart Home Services for 10-40% less than
Dorney. “We are here to build a better
every negative perception and preconceived
its competitors. “This allows us to serve all
community, and ultimately make El Paso
stereotype of just how security companies
of our neighbors -- not just those who can
a better place. Dorney Security Systems
conduct their business nowadays. “When
afford it,” explains Dorney. “It is important
donates 10% of their income to the
someone signs up with us we lock in their rate
to us to provide a quality experience where
community supporting groups of all sizes
forever, all without long contracts,” explained
price doesn’t have to be the deciding factor.”
that help keep youth from becoming the people that we protect against.”
Shane Dorney, owner of Dorney Security Systems. “We believe it is important that our
Priding themselves on a cancellation rate
clients want to be with us, and are not forced
that is less than 10% each year (of which,
Shane Dorney
to. Now 30 years and over 1500 clients later,
the majority are due to relocations outside of
Dorney Security Systems
our clients choose to stay with us.”
the service area), DSS continues to expand.
3950 Doniphan Park Cir. Ste. M
“We started out as a basic residential
El Paso, TX 79922
With their direct emphasis on building and
security company,” explained Dorney. “We
(915) 584-4526
maintaining their customer base through
now serve El Paso, Las Cruces, Austin and
sales@dorneysecurity.com
their company policy of providing locked
San Antonio, with plans to open an office in
www.dorneysecurity.com
rates and a truly custom experience to every
Tucson this winter.”
96 | SPECIAL ADVERTISING
By: CANDACE VASQUEZ photographed by: TOMMIE MORELOS
Johnny Orozco
Home Theater and Security Experts “Ask the experts.” For the best and most trusted service
the success of his eight fleet trucks, 16 man
that this means everything from controlling
in home theater technology and quality
crew, and fully-loaded home style show room,
lights, music, door locks, and more – all at the
security, look no further than Home Theater
Johnny and his team truly care about the
touch of button from your smart phone.” But
and Security Experts. As a fully licensed and
quality they offer their customers. As a family
Home Theater and Security also offers new
certified company servicing 70-80 percent of
man, Johnny knows the needs and wants of
and cutting edge technology for your home,
the builders in El Paso, Home Theater and
the growing home market. “On the security
from sound systems, TV mounting, to fully
Security Experts has installed their services
side, we are focused on family and protecting
loaded home theaters – if you have a vision in
in Desert View Homes, CareFree Homes,
your kids,” explained Johnny. “We have the
mind, the experts at Home Theater Security
Fortune Custom Homes, RC Baeza &
latest technology available like our nanny
can make it a reality.
Associates, Definitive Homes, Icon Custom
cameras, a technology that allows you to
Builder LLC, GMF Custom Homes LP, Hakes
watch over your home and your children while
Brothers, MRQ Construction and many more.
you are gone or at work. This is all powered by a locally owned monitoring company, this
Getting his start 16 years ago out of his own
means that you are dealing with people and
Johnny Orozco
garage, Johnny Orozco, President of Home
not computers. Our service is also faster,
Home Theater and Security Experts
Theater and Security Experts is truly an expert
same-day or next day service depending on
11570 Pellicano, Ste. C
in the industry. Having grown his locally
the call. On top of that, we also have the best in
El Paso, Texas 79936
owned company from the very beginning to
full home automation. Customers don’t realize
(915) 594-0667
By: MEAGAN KINLEY photographed by: ROBERT CORRAL
SPECIAL ADVERTISING | 97
Mike Amparan
Craft House Pub and Grub “I want to offer Craft Beers for those that are just beginning to try them and for the more experienced Craft drinker so we have everything throughout the spectrum.” As you walk into Craft House Pub and Grub
taste for great beer, Craft House Pub and Grub
themselves. All dishes are fresh, made in
there is a welcoming familiarity in the air from
carries Brews from Breweries in states such
house and built to compliment the beers
the friendly staff to the mellow ambiance.
as Texas, Colorado, California, Washington,
offered. Some menu items even contain the
Owner Mike Amparan has been working
Oregon, New York, and many others. From
beers on tap in their ingredients. There are also
in the industry for over 20 years now and
Ales to Browns, Ciders to Hefeweizens, Indian
some lighter fare menu items to choose from.
applied his love of Craft Beer, Great Food,
& Pale Ales to Lagers and Stouts to Porters,
and Great People to an exciting New Bar
Craft House has what El Pasoans want.
Craft House Pub and Grub is the prominent
and Grill on the West side of El Paso. With
Amparan states, “I want to offer Craft Beers
Craft Beer Bar on El Paso’s far West side, and
a passion for the Craft, Amparan believes El
for those that are just beginning to try them
welcomes Beer Lovers near and far. Amparan
Pasoans palates are evolving and consumers
and for the more experienced Craft drinker so
hopes to collaborate with other Pub and Bar
love having choices when it comes to visiting
we have everything throughout the spectrum.”
Owners to help strengthen and promote El Paso’s
their favorite neighborhood bar.
Even if you walk in to have a familiar Domestic
Craft Beer Community. Come check them out!
beer, Amparan will not hesitate to tempt you Amparan has had a great response since Craft
with trying something new and different.
Mike Amparan Craft House Pub and Grub
House opened in late June. While still offering the domestics El Pasoans are known to love,
Daily Specials are offered and Happy Hour
5020 N. Desert Blvd. Ste. A2
Craft House Pub and Grub currently offers
is 11:00 am to 7:00 pm, Monday through
(Behind Texas Roadhouse)
forty-two Craft Beers on tap and over thirty-five
Saturday. Craft House Pub and Grub offers
El Paso Texas, 79912
bottled varieties. Hoping to fulfill everyone’s
a full kitchen with meals that are a Craft in
(915) 584-6100
98 | SPECIAL ADVERTISING
By: LAURA WERTHMANN photographed by: TOMMIE MORELOS
Cathy Parker Coffee Emporium
“There is nothing more satisfying than seeing a customer thrilled over a beautiful basket, the perfect gift, or just introducing someone to a new coffee or tea.” When Cathy Parker took over Coffee
to coffee, the shop also offers three fabulous
include items ranging from baby booties, Poo
Emporium, she worked hard to build the
tea lines: Tea Forte, Republic of Tea and
Pouri, wine glasses and eye glasses to sauces,
store into something great with the help of
Lindsay’s both in loose tea and in bags.
pastas, preserves, soups, and much more. You can also find a selection of Jura Capresso
amazing employees, manager Kelly Baldwin and many loyal customers. Parker has turned
Coffee Emporium is the biggest seller of Sweet
electric coffee makers, Chemex, French
the store into an exciting and friendly place
Shop Handmade Chocolates in West Texas. “It is
Presses, and Toddy cold coffee makers.
to shop and is getting ready to celebrate the
wonderful chocolate and in hot demand,” Parker
store’s 35 years in business.
says. She also notes that Coffee Emporium is the only store in El Paso that sells Godiva by the a
piece, assuring her customers many delectable
company who has been in business for over
options. There is also an amazing variety of
five generations, providing her customers
cookies, nuts and other snacks to compliment
with only the best quality coffee. Coffee
the chocolate confections.
Cathy
holds
strong
affiliations
with
Cathy Parker Coffee Emporium
Emporium offers some 20 regular types of coffee, twelve flavored coffees, and eight
These goodies can be incorporated into an
5817 N. Mesa
types of decaf- all sold in bean, ground to
amazing (and very popular) basket to meet
El Paso, TX 79912
customer preference or used in specialty
any needs and budget. The baskets are sent
(915) 584-2255
drinks. For those interested in an alternative
all over the US. Other features in the store
info@CoffeeEmporiumElPaso.com
By: LAURA WERTHMANN photographed by: TOMMIE MORELOS
SPECIAL ADVERTISING | 99
Christina Gandara
Pencil Cup Office Products “It’s all about our customers.” Pencil Cup Office Products started operations
up the team at Pencil Cup.” Teresa works
and Carlos value family and go above and
out of the family garage 13 years ago. Carlos
at the helm, addressing human resources,
beyond when caring for their employees.
and Teresa Gandara soon began renting space
promotions
Carlos
That care is passed onto our customers
in the Gorman Industrial building where they
Gandara Sr., works as the Chief Financial
and makes work extremely satisfying. Our
resided for 12 years. They now own their
Officer. Carlos Gandara, Jr., is the Chief
customers put the roof over our head, the
own building in the booming Downtown
Operations Manager, and all employees work
food on our table, and the clothes on our
business district and are proudly considered
diligently to ensure that every customers
back. With that, we humbly say ‘Thank You’
“your local neighborhood office supply
needs are not only met, but also surpassed.
for allowing us to be your local office supply
company” by customers. “‘El Paso can take
“Our motto is ‘Because of the Customer, We
company of choice for 13
care of El Paso’ is something my mother
Exist’ and we will never take our customers
years; we look forward to
always said when discussing the importance
for granted!” said Christina.
serving our community for
and
marketing,
and
many more! Buy Local!”
of buying and supporting our local economy. Today this concept is a force that drives my
Being active members of the El Paso Hispanic
purchases from groceries to home repair,”
Chamber of Commerce and Homegrown El
Christina Gandara
said Christina Gandara, Pencil Cup Office
Paso, Pencil Cup values and supports local
Pencil Cup Office Products
Products Furniture and Sales Executive. “I
businesses in order to strengthen the local
1220 Texas Ave.
am proud to work for the family business
economy. When asked what her favorite
El Paso, Texas 79901
and call myself a Pencil Cup Office Products
thing about working at Pencil Cup is, inside
(915) 838-0026
employee; family is exactly what makes
sales representative, Diana Frazier said, “Teri
Fax: (915) 838-0028
100 | SPECIAL ADVERTISING
Photographed by: TOMMIE MORELOS
Ashleigh Martin El Paso Supper Club
“El Paso Supper Club is totally transparent in that aspect and our clients enjoy that reassurance … meals are delivered chilled, never frozen, and designed from the ground up to be restaurant quality out of your microwave or oven.” El Paso has a tradition of loving food and
garden. A new Wood-Fired Clay oven is
Currently a Certified Sommelier, and former
loving it well, Chef Ashleigh Martin realized
being used to create a variety of dishes that
Sous chef at Tabla, Chef Martin creates
that very quickly and decided to begin the El
are absolutely amazing.
meals
from
a
background
of
tasteful
greatness. She is also the founder of Kitchen
Paso Supper Club. Already a staple in multiple cities around the US, the Supper Club strives
As your personal delivery woman, Chef Martin
Little, a non-profit created to provide meals
on bringing deliciously healthy meals to
exudes her culinary passion as she interacts
for disadvantaged children in El Paso during
the table. Since February 2014, the El Paso
with her clients to understand their needs and
school breaks, and helps in the kitchen of the
Supper Club has been a great addition to the
“reinvent the way people eat dinner.” Chef
Annunciation House of Downtown El Paso.
city’s dedication to living healthy, and has
Martin states, “El Paso Supper Club is totally
El Paso has taken in the Supper Club meals
seen a great positive response. All meals are
transparent in that aspect and our clients enjoy
and stepped out of their comfort zone to try
handcrafted with the finest ingredients to fit
that reassurance … meals are delivered chilled,
different, exciting and fun dishes and turned
the client’s preferences and cravings.
never frozen, and designed from the ground up
them into a dinner favorite.
to be restaurant quality out of your microwave The amazingly fresh ingredients are local and
or oven.” Special menus are an offered
Ashleigh Martin
sustainable, featured from El Paso gardens
preference as Chef Martin caters to vegetarians,
El Paso Supper Club
and Sol y Tierra Growers from Anthony, New
allergies and all special diets. There is trust and
(888) 316-9131
Mexico. Some ingredients include the likes
appreciation for fresh, nutritional, and innovative
facebook.com/elpasosupperclub
of squash blossoms, blue cornmeal, and
meals from the El Paso Supper Club, and Chef
Instagram: @elpasosupperclub
fresh herbs grown right out of Chef Martin’s
Martin’s passion shows through it.
By: LAURA WERTHMANN photographed by: TOMMIE MORELOS
SPECIAL ADVERTISING | 101
Carlos Meza
The Ribs Smokehouse “We take pride in our delicious recipes and we deliver them fresh everyday.” In El Paso’s lower valley, The Ribs Smokehouse
from a can or from a package, everything is
is changing the way El Paso sees and tastes
prepared with our own recipes in a authentic
BBQ. With a delicious menu including all the
and traditional manner. We are proud of our
best meats of the genre, The Ribs Smokehouse
process, it’s custom built for our restaurant and
has the greatest in beef, pork, sausage, as
our specifications. Our attention to detail isn’t
well as other unexpected BBQ items like
something you will find anywhere else in town;
scrumptious hamburgers. With homemade
a little known fact is that we cook our meats
Carlos Meza
BBQ sauces, homemade lemonade, and ice-
with apple wood. Altogether, when you choose
The Ribs Smokehouse
cold beer (yes, beer cooled on ice and not in
The Ribs Smokehouse, you can be sure that
8414 North Loop Dr.
a refrigerator), The Ribs Smokehouse is one El
you are eating a product that is fresh.”
El Paso, Texas 79907 (915) 592-7427
Paso restaurant making some serious noise in our city’s BBQ industry. You can be sure that
Carlos and the rest of his team at The Ribs
when you eat at The Ribs Smokehouse, you
Smokehouse are pleased with the delicious
are truly eating the real thing.
twist they have added to BBQ. With a fun, relaxed environment featuring live music and
“Not only does everything on our menu
plasma screen TVs for the perfect sports
taste amazing, but everything we serve is
evening out; the Ribs Smokehouse is where
made from scratch, and isn’t processed,”
you can find the best food, the coldest beer
said Carlos Meza. “Nothing we make comes
and the best ribs in town.
102 | SPECIAL ADVERTISING
By: MEAGAN KINLEY photographed by: ROBERT CORRAL
Dr. Brandon Broome, MD
El Paso Orthopaedic Surgery Group “The most rewarding part of my job is seeing patients the afternoon of surgery, walking and feeling better already than when they walked in.” The El Paso Orthopaedic Surgery Group
In partnership with the El Paso Specialty
Dr. Broome has spent years becoming one of
(EPOSG) has been practicing medicine for
Hospital, physicians at EPOSG have created
the top specialists of our great city.
the people of El Paso since 1939. In the
the Joint Replacement Institute of the
spirit of staying on top of the latest medical
Southwest. By partnering together, they
developments and experience, they now
have developed a state of the art program
have specialty-trained physicians in every
for joint replacements with rapid recovery
subspecialty of orthopedics.
protocols, improved patient outcomes, and lower costs. In fact, their complication rates
Dr. Broome is the newest addition to the
are lower than the Mayo Clinic. By providing a
group. He is fellowship trained in total joint
high quality, low cost service, they are able to
replacements. He specializes in total hip
reach out to patients in the entire Southwest
replacement including the anterior approach.
region and even overseas.
This cutting edge procedure gets patients
Dr. Brandon Broome, MD 1720 Murchison Dr. El Paso, Texas 79902
back on their feet with a faster recovery and
Dr. Broome graduated from medical school
less pain; several have gone home the day of
at Texas Tech University in Lubbock, finished
surgery. He also performs total and partial knee
his residency at the University of Louisville’s
replacements and complex revision surgeries.
Department of Orthopaedics, and completed
www.eposg.com
a fellowship at Steadman Hawkins Clinic of
www.upfronthip.com
the Carolinas in Hip and Knee Reconstruction.
Appointments: (915) 730-3093
By: MEAGAN KINLEY photographed by: TOMMIE MORELOS
3100 N. Lee Trevino Dr. El Paso, Texas 79936
SPECIAL ADVERTISING | 103
Raul Bencomo Jr. Anytime Fitness
“We have now been open on Zaragoza for over five years and are opening a second location on George Dieter within the next few months.” With the necessity for a focus on health and
also been designed to break the typical gym
George Dieter within the next few months,”
fitness at a well-placed forefront nowadays, it
mold. “Anytime Fitness is the largest gym
shared Bencomo. “We are open 24 hours,
has become increasingly clear that in order to
franchise in the country,” explained Raul
always clean and our one membership gives
live a life appointed with longevity and health,
Bencomo Jr., owner of the local Anytime
you access to over 2,000 clubs throughout
that sacrifices must be made in order to see that
Fitness franchise. “It is a semi-exclusive, co-
the country. It is a club for busy people and
goal to realization. In competition with that goal
ed 24 hour fitness and tanning facility. We
true fitness enthusiasts.”
is the perpetually exhausting task of navigating
decided to open this gym because we felt
the narrow tightrope elusively lined with the
there was a huge need for a true 24/7/365
proper balance of a well-tended home life, a
gym in town. Additionally, we were tired of
successful career, and an unwavering dedication
the overcrowded gyms in El Paso -- and we
to fitness -- all while tackling and conquering
knew we were not alone.” Raul Bencomo Jr.
that ever increasing list of “to-dos.” While that sounds more like an unrealistic ideal, Anytime
Ranked among the top 20% of Anytime
Anytime Fitness
Fitness exists in order to make the road toward
Fitness
2230 N Zaragoza Rd
health and well being, a bit more achievable.
Bencomo’s
facilities
in
eastside
the
country,
Anytime
Raul
Fitness
El Paso, TX 79938
location has simply set the mark in terms of
915.855.0900
Operating as one of the only gyms that truly
what else is in store for El Paso. “We have
elpasotx@anytimefitness.com
offers an experience that works around
now been open on Zaragoza for over five
Follow us on
YOUR busy schedule, Anytime Fitness has
years and are opening a second location on
Twitter/Facebook/Instagram @ atfelpaso
104 | SPECIAL ADVERTISING
By: CANDACE VASQUEZ photographed by: ROBERT CORRAL
Walter Alarcon
Elite Events and Cakes Elite Events and Cakes specializes in modern cakes with intricate designs, structures, and flavors. Locally owned Elite Events and Cakes has
different and innovative flavors to compare
to clients, and provide themes for the newest
been an El Paso favorite for ten years. Walter
with your traditional ones including: mango
and most modern ideas, cake flavors, fabrics,
Alarcon and his family create and design pastry
tequila, green tea, piña colada, and orange
decorations, and trends.
masterpieces that consume today’s world of
cranberry. When Alarcon studied culinary
modernity. Elite Events and Cakes is greatly
arts with a specialization in cake decorations
With unique cake flavors, centerpieces,
appreciative of their new and lasting relationships
at the Culinary Institute of New York, he
tablecloths, and all around event décor,
with clients, and provide for every occasion
entered their Wedding Cake competition and
Alarcon hopes to soon expand Elite Events
--
quinceañeras,
was awarded first prize for cake design and
and Cakes to showcase all of his creative and
showers, and especially weddings. There is a
first prize for cake flavor above many other
event design abilities.
different style that comes out of the woodwork
acclaimed bakers and pastry chefs.
birthdays,
anniversaries,
Walter Alarcon
at Elite Events and Cakes, and Alarcon and his family strive to keep up to date with every trend
A regular at the Bridal and Quinceñera Expo
Elite Events
on the market.
every January, and a cake and dessert provider
and Cakes
for different organizations, Elite Events and Cake
7104 N. Mesa
Elite Events and Cakes specializes in modern
enjoys being involved in the El Paso community.
El Paso, TX 79912
cakes with intricate designs, structures, and
They hold an open house cake and desert
(915) 875 – 0936
flavors. The most popular cake is the pear
tasting coupled with wine and hors d’oeuvres
Follow us on Instagram: eliteeventselp
and Champagne flavor, but there are also very
every month to increase involvement, reach out
By: LAURA WERTHMANN photographed by: TOMMIE MORELOS
SPECIAL ADVERTISING | 105
Annette Gomez Oasis Sleep Outlet
“We will go that extra mile for all our customers.” Oasis Sleep Outlet is a locally and family-
of their lifetime sleeping. That’s about 25
for Hope, which helps children battle kidney
owned store in El Paso that provides name
years. Our mattress professionals educate
disease, to raising awareness for breast cancer.
brand mattresses to improve your quality of
our customers on the products we provide
“What I want most at the end of the day is to
sleep. With a collective 20 years of experience
to offer healthy sleep solutions without high
teach my kids the value of giving back, helping
in the industry and an inventory that has
pressure sale tactics,” said Annette. “Oasis
the community, and making a big difference
something for all sleep styles, Oasis Sleep
offers a variety of finance options to help you
one little step at a time,” said Annette.
Outlet is out to help you ‘live, laugh and sleep
purchase the perfect mattress. We find a way
well.’ “Initially I was scared to death about
to say yes to everybody.” Annette and Oasis
opening a new business,” explained Annette
are also excited to announce that starting this
Gomez, President of Oasis Sleet Outlet. “As
fall, they will open their first in-store gallery of
a single mom with three kids my number one
Caldera Hot Tubs and Spas. “Relaxing in a hot
priority is their future. Ultimately, I decided
tub helps ease your body in to a deeper sleep.”
this venture would teach my children that if you work hard and treat people right you can
But helping people sleep better isn’t Annette’s
be successful. Today I am so thankful for this
only goal. “Our business venture is merely
Annette Gomez
opportunity, and I thank God every day.”
a stepping stone for our greater calling, and
Oasis Sleep Outlet
that’s to help others in our community,” said
6601 S. Desert Blvd. Ste. 201
With a thankful heart, Annette and her team
Annette. Together Annette and her team take
El Paso, Texas 79932
at Oasis are here to help El Pasoans improve
on as many philanthropic opportunities as they
(915) 877-2255
their everyday lives. “People spend a third
can, from raising money for the Annual Run
oasissleepoutlet.com
106 | SPECIAL ADVERTISING
By: MEAGAN KINLEY photographed by: TOMMIE MORELOS
Manny and Veronica Garcia Mr. Tuxedo
“Mr. Tuxedo believes in offering trendy formalwear at an affordable price.” With a business motto that promises to offer
After hearing about a tuxedo shop that had
“a classy look that’s easy on the pocket,”
been looking to sell, Manny and his wife
Mr. Tuxedo believes in “offering trendy
purchased and opened Mr. Tuxedo Formalwear.
formalwear at an affordable price” all the
Throughout the course of their eight years in
while providing excellent customer service.
business, Manny and Veronica have expanded
Manny and Veronica Garcia
from a small 100 square foot, single mannequin
Mr. Tuxedo Formal Wear
Manny Garcia and his wife Veronica Garcia
shop, to their current 1700 square foot shop
5555-B Alameda Ave.
decided to “take a leap of faith” and open
on Alameda, which offers four large dressing
El Paso, TX 79905
a small business after experiencing firsthand
rooms and over 40 mannequins.
(915) 779-1864
just how costly renting formalwear can be.
www.mrtuxedoformal.com
“One day we were asked to be “padrinos”
“Our tuxedos start at $59.99 for a complete
Like us on Facebook
(godparents) for a quinceañera,” Veronica
tuxedo including shoes. Plus, we offer one
Follow us on Instagram
recalled. “Manny had to get fitted with a
free tuxedo with the rental of six, two free
tuxedo for the event. He couldn’t believe
tuxedos with the rental of 10 and three free
how expensive his tuxedo rental was; he only
tuxedos with the rental of 15. In addition, we
needed it for one night. Plus, the customer
will come to you for personalized fittings for
service he had at the tuxedo shop was not
free! We offer a variety of tuxedos and a full
good, by any means. From that moment, he
line of colors to match your event.”
knew what he had to do.” By: CANDACE VASQUEZ photographed by: ROBERT CORRAL
SPECIAL ADVERTISING | 107
AVISO GROUP “GET NOTICED” Your customers are right outside your door!
main task is to make websites not only
“Powered by our team of search engine
AVISO GROUP, LLC has developed a method
visible when searching, but profitable to our
optimization experts, companies experience
that is helping local businesses reach the top
clients’ websites and brands. We don’t invest
refreshing
of search engines quick, fast and in a hurry.
online to look pretty. It has to make money,”
traffic, brand awareness, and ultimately –
AVISO GROUP’s trendy, stand out approach
states Adam E. Gurrola. “We hit the ground
conversions and revenue.”
will bring new clients knocking your door
running researching and implementing the
down, begging for your services. Google,
most up-to-date techniques using our unique
Yahoo, and Bing search traffic analyzers
tools to put our clients ahead of their online
show that 90% of all search traffic in El Paso
competition.” With aspirations to create a
is going to national websites instead of local.
cutting edge marketing firm here in El Paso,
In every other major city, those numbers are
Adam E. Gurrola and his business partners
more like 40%. Search engines are designed
Edward Beck and Adrian Ramser followed
Aviso Group
to focus and rank local businesses above
their dreams and opened Aviso Group LLC.
SEO | ONLINE DEVELOPMENT | GRAPHICS
national websites and we are here to help
“I value the relationships that we have with
5959 Gateway East, Ste. 329
get you to the top of those search engines.
our customers. An open door policy with
(915) 412-2442
With over 30 years combined experience,
them is always a must in order to develop
www.AvisoGroupLLC.com
AVISO GROUP LLC has the know how to
a foundation that works for our customers,”
make your website work for you. “We are
states Edward Beck.
hikes
in
organic
website
an experienced SEO marketing firm whose
108 | SPECIAL ADVERTISING
Photographed by: TOMMIE MORELOS
Miguel Angel Mercado Ocean Gallery USA
“ If you can dream it, we can build it because we do the Spectacular EVERYDAY!” It all began with a simple aquarium when
In 1995, Miguel Angel sought out the help
with a sister company, The Dorian Group,
Miguel Angel Mercado was around 20
of the nation’s industry leader in custom
that specializes in affordable, beautiful entry
years old. He had a friend that purchased
aquarium fabrication and worked alongside
level custom pools, and custom hand carved
an aquarium for his apartment and it totally
Wade King of ATM aquariums (Animal
one-of-a-kind Laguna pool creations with
captivated Miguel Angel, so of course, as
Planet’s Tanked Star), who taught him
large scale waterfalls, rock slides, swim up
friendly competition amongst friends would
everything there is to know. “Since then,
bars and grottos.”
have it, he immediately had to get a bigger
Ocean Gallery USA has been designing,
and better one. “I absorbed and learned
building and fabricating all of our custom
What does the future hold for Miguel Angel
absolutely everything I could regarding all
aquaria, bubble and water walls, cabinetry
and Ocean Gallery USA? Well, let’s just say
aspects of the aquaria hobby.”
and coral inserts right here in El Paso.”
you should stay tuned to your TV in the near
Miguel Angel then came up with the idea to
Miguel Angel and Ocean Gallery USA’s
design, build and sell custom aquariums,
work, has been recognized by major national
coral inserts, pedestals and canopies. Most
publications such as, The DuPont Registry
Principal Office
importantly at that time, he began leasing them
2002, Landscape Architect 2001, USA Today
8411 Lockheed Drive
with everything included, even the service and
1997, just to name a few. Our clients range
El Paso, Texas 79925
maintenance. “To this day we are still El Paso’s
from local, national, and international, higher
915-778-5111
exclusive custom aquarium fabrication, leasing,
end home owners, night clubs, restaurants,
oceangalleryusa.com
maintenance and service provider.”
casinos and interior decorators. “For the past
dorianconstruction.com
10 years we have broadened our horizons
fb.com/oceangalleryusa
future on Saturday mornings from 8 to 9 …
By: CANDACE VASQUEZ photographed by: ROBERT CORRAL
something “extreme” is coming your way!
SPECIAL ADVERTISING | 109
August, 2014
West Texas | Written and photographed by: EDDIE CEPEDA |
Smoked Therapy
110
www.thecitymagazineelp.com
west texas bbq
August, 2014
t’s Sunday in the Upper Valley and
provincial America. Barbecue is au courant.
the lake is glistening; the ducks
Barbecue is happening.
are coming by, swarming for some homemade
Barbecue, though is also for the purists and
ice chest is full of beer, the wood
those of us who are learned purist converts.
cracked is
corn.
stacked
11-pound,
The and
an
There are many barbecue devotees who
fetching
avow their barbecue style is best. St. Louis,
there’s
marbly,
hunk of meat seasoned and
South Carolina, and of course bad and big
ready to go. We have a good soundtrack
Texas. With BON APETITTE, along with a
going and have admittedly already made a
slew of major publications, declaring Austin’s
tiny dent in that ice chest.
Franklin’s the best in the country, it’s safe to say Texas style is at the very least leading the
Like a guest we know will make it to the party
battle for now.
but is a little late, the sun hasn’t yet graced us with its presence. It’s somewhere around
But we’re not Austin or Brooklyn. Nor do we
five a.m. On an ordinary day, this scene would
want to be. But why should we not enjoy
probably make me an alcoholic . . . but it’s no
the real thing? Hakadosh “Wandering Que”
ordinary day; it’s barbecue day. We’re in the
truck is Brooklyn’s most famous Texas-style
middle of the desert, more than 500 miles
brisket, a venture owned by Ari White, an El
away from barbecue country and we want
Paso native and son of Mr. White of White’s
brisket. And among a growing number of men
Music Box. And the earliest printed mention
(and women), making that brisket is a cultural
of smoked brisket can be traced back to
and social ritual that starts just like this.
Watson’s Grocery on Texas Street here in El Paso in 1910. So take that, Central Texas.
It’s no secret that barbecue (particularly Texas-style smoked brisket) has been one of
With that said, for now, if you want the
the latest derniers in food culture. With Texas’
authentic experience, you’re going to have
famed but still homie Franklin’s Barbecue
to do it yourself in your backyard. This isn’t
restaurant in American Express commercials,
your tia’s backyard cookout though. This is
Williamsburg-types queuing up around the
a meticulous 18-hour ritual that’s fun and
block to experience Texan barbecue in New
rewarding and delicious.
York, shows like Barbecue Pitmasters and even internet delivery services - barbecue is
In the last couple years, I’ve met at least
no longer the stuff of the rural and rustic in
15 people who’ve bought or made their
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west texas bbq
August, 2014
own smokers to get it just right. In fact, an
him in different cities every week, often in
architect friend of mine is having one custom
line for a coveted slice of meat he couldn’t
built with the specifications of Franklin’s
get at home. “No one was really making this
famous smoker.
kind of barbecue in El Paso. So I thought I’d learn for myself,” he says in between
By now, some of you are wondering if this
compulsive, gleeful glances checking to
is some kind of barbecue obsessed cult
ensure the temperature remains constant on
leader and thinking ‘hey guy, come on, how
his plentitude of meat.
different can your barbecue really be?!’ He hands me another beer. I’m tipsy but Well the thing is, there is a science to making
oblige. This is after all, a monthly quasi-
this lush piece of meat and this science does
holiday. And as much as barbecue is about
have a following. Any true barbecue aficionado
the technicalities: getting that pink smoke
will be the first to tell you, barbecue is about the
ring just right, concocting a proprietary and
indirect heat process. The process of smoking
personal dry rub, and the incredible challenge
meat with wood. It seems fairly simple: burn
of keeping the brisket moist and at the
some wood, let the smoke reach the meat for
precise temperature for as long as 18 hours
a set length of time, and eventually, cut in and
- barbecue is also about the modern man
enjoy. But simple it is not.
bond. A shared love of creating - of starting a journey before dark, devoting an entire day
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On this day. we’re at my friend Agui’s
to preparing something that’ll make people
place. He’s not a professional cook - but a
shriek with satisfaction. It’s a communal
technology professional whose job landed
experience and each time you strive to make www.thecitymagazineelp.com
August, 2014 it better. Along the way, we laugh and take in the moment - like an adult mini vacation, recess for grownups. “Franklin says not to use pecan but I like it,” Agui says as he carries a pile of pecan wood to burn. “Franklin” is Aaron Franklin, the young, new guru of barbecue and owner of the aforementioned Franklin’s Barbeque. To barbecue fans he is sort of the Michael Jordan of the barbecue world. To explain simply how good Franklin’s is, they have sold out of food every single day they have been open. Some people will tell you it’s all hype, but I’ve had it. The stuff melts in your mouth. Hype or not, the stuff is legit. The sun is starting to set and the guests are starting to get a little antsy. “It’s not ready,” says Agui, much to everyone’s chagrin. He could take it out and cut into it at this point, but the temperature just isn’t there yet, and the meat might be a little tough if not allowed to reach that perfect point. The re-loading of the ice chest washes everyone’s sorrow away. The brisket does eventually reach its zenith, and from the moment of the first cut, it will only exist for about 20 minutes as this group of hungry revelers devours this succulent cut of meat with no remorse. Those also happen to be the most quiet 20 minutes of the day. Only the occasional moan permeates the room. It’s almost pornographic. “That was fast. Was it worth all that time?” I ask Agui. “Absolutely!” he responds. “It’s just the whole process I love. Waking up early to start the fire, rubbing the brisket. Hanging out. It’s just a great way to spend a day,” Agui tells me. I can attest to this. Having purchased my own smoker, I spend a great deal of time trying to perfect my brisket. I’ve had some good briskets and some bad, but one thing has always been the same: I’ve had a blast doing it. Maybe barbecue is our modern therapy. And just maybe, this is El Pasoans way of bringing smoked brisket back to it’s rightful home. www.thecitymagazineelp.com
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| By: BRITTANY SAWREY |
of
a M
August, 2014
I
f you’re looking for a unique gift, handmade item or vintage décor, Etsy.com has you covered. With over 850,000 active online shops, the options are endless and the creativity is intoxicating. Etsy seeks to replicate the feeling of an open-air marketplace, one with different tents,
distinctive sellers and widely varying products. Now, however, you can enjoy that wide array from the comfort of your couch via computer, smartphone or tablet. Anyone can sell items on Etsy and keep nearly all their profits; the site only charges $0.20 to list an item, and that’s where their cut ends. The buyer can also communicate directly with the seller, asking for personalized items, shipping options or more details about the product. Launched in 2005 by Rob Kalin, Etsy now spans nearly 200 countries. Kalin said he named it Etsy because he wanted a nonsense word – a word that wouldn’t be associated with anything but the idea he was creating. He certainly was successful both in the titling and the business, which recently became a certified B Corporation. B Corporations are an emerging type of company; they use their power in business to address social and environmental problems. Following the lead of Fair Trade and LEED certification, B Corporation certification holds businesses to a level higher than simple profit. Sustainability, social and environmental impacts are among the many focuses of these new companies, but that’s nothing new to Etsy. They offer bicycles on loan to employees, donate office compost to a community farm in Brooklyn, regulate office energy consumption and hire local, small food businesses – and that’s just how they run their office. By allowing anyone from a degree-carrying artist to a stay-at-home mom to sell their goods, their service itself empowers sellers and reduces environmental impacts, just as it has been for years. Whether you’re selling on Etsy or browsing for a product, they make it simple and easy. As a seller, you have the option of signing up for extra marketing, tagging items to make them more easily found and personalizing your shop. With an area for shop owners to describe themselves and their passions, connecting with customers and other shop owners is that much easier. If, on the other hand, you’re searching for an item, their easy-to-use search engine allows you to be as specific or general as you want. You can also choose favorite shops and items, to help you revisit products you were interested in. Etsy also chooses favorites, features specific shops or sellers, and blogs about new and exciting items. They even offer a service where you can have their ‘editor’s picks’ emailed to your inbox every day, to keep up-to-date with new items and shops. El Paso is not without it’s own creative geniuses that are making use of Etsy’s virtual marketplace – our city boasts many shop owners, artists and entrepreneurs on the site. A few include:
Danitaart A dreamer’s shop filled with
prints,
dolls,
and
jewelry set to inspire your own peaceful wonderland; this artist seeks to share her love of all things whimsical with her customers.
Secretsphynx A spunky shop of personalized jewelry, ranging from sweet to sassy and everything in between. Jewelry can also be personalized, which is a perk!
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August, 2014
Foxdendecor Focused
mainly
on
distressed,
reclaimed furniture that’s sure to turn heads, Foxdendecor also sells ottoman trays and, surprisingly, dog collars!
Vintagebleuboutique French
tea
towels,
pillow
covers
and dishtowels populate this lovely, specialized boutique shop. If you’re looking to spruce-up your sofas, Vintagebleuboutique is a perfect stop.
CollectiveHeart This is the shop for vintage and antique
Thelittlesoapstore Since this shop owner has a B.S. in Biology and a B.A. in English, its no wonder that her handmade soaps are
treasure
seekers.
Whether
you’re
looking for a vintage camera, porcelain figurine or a teapot, you’ll find it here!
both practical and gorgeous! These soaps are perfect for adding a little uniqueness to your bathroom or kitchen.
Isaessentials This
nature-friendly
shop
features homemade skin care products
made
from
“pure,
natural ingredients” for customers hoping for a less toxic lifestyle. It features everything from anti-aging serum to all-natural deodorant, perfect for any needs. 116
E l pa s o o n e t s y
August, 2014
Beautiqueful If you want a one-of-a-kind look for your children, this boutique shop is the place to visit. It features high-quality hair pieces and clothing for girls and boys, all made individually and by hand.
Leatherinceptions Leather-lovers will fall head over heels for this shop of handmade, unique leather items. Wallets, lanyards, belts, motorcycle bags and more are all available at this suave shop.
Fablesandfinery For the fashionista that loves old Hollywood glam, this shop steps back in time with vintage clothing, jewelry
and
accessories
spanning from the 40s to the 80s.
FashionablyGeeky247 Whatever and whoever you’re looking for, Etsy is sure
Owned by a mathematical sciences
to have something for you! As a way to support individual
major, this adorable and exceptional shop
artists and craftsmen, your purchases come with the
boasts dresses and bow ties unavailable
knowledge that you are supporting someone else’s vision
at any other store. Themed from comic
and dream. By keeping an eye out for shops owned by
books to sheet music, you’re sure to
El Pasoans you can support our community’s art and
have an outfit unlike anyone else
creativity, too. Etsy on!
www.thecitymagazineelp.com
with purchases here!
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November, 2013
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November, 2013
Here at M!X, we have every luxurious service you could ever want or ask for. Our hair salon, nail salon, spa and sauna, and third story restaurant and viewing terrace are all meant for one thing, making you feel extraordinary. Don’t delay and call today and book your appointment now! 4201 Camelot Heights Dr. by N. Mesa | El Paso, Texas 79912 | (915) 351-0032 | mixsalonspa.com | Like us on Facebook!
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August, 2014
Tulasi | By: MEAGAN KINLEY photo by: DAV ANMED |
Gopalan A Little Q&A with the
NEW
MISS EL PASO
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TEEN TEXAS 2014 www.thecitymagazineelp.com
August, 2014
m i s s e l pa s o t e e n t e x a s 2 0 1 4
The 2014 Miss El Paso and Miss El Paso Teen Texas competition crowned it’s new leading ladies June 21 at UTEP’s Magoffin Auditorium. This two-day competition featuring 81 lovely ladies; women of grace, power, and intelligence, crowned Miss Tulasi Gopalan as the new Miss El Paso Teen Texas 2014. The City Magazine sat down with this amazing young woman for a brief Q & A, getting the scoop on El Paso’s newest teen titleholder. Q: What is was background prior
Q: This was your first pageant, what can
Q: What other goals do you
to beginning your pageant career?
you say about the overall experience?
have outside of pageants?
A: “I’m an only child. I was born in Brooklyn,
A: “I honestly had a lot of fun. I was very
A: “I want to major in physics at college. It is
New York and when I was three, my parents
excited from the very beginning to the end.
not a subject that comes natural to me, but
and I moved here to El Paso. I don’t really
I really loved being on stage. I think the best
I do enjoy the challenge. Later in life I want
remember New York at all, I remember
realization I’ve had through throughout this
to become a doctor; that’s my overall goal.
El Paso the best and it’s definitely home.
whole experience is ‘mind over matter.’ Just
The two fields that interest me most right
Outside of school and pageants I’ve been
like in golf and other sports; if you have a good
now would be becoming a Neurosurgeon or
playing golf for 11 years now. I’ve been really
mental attitude, you can usually overcome
pursuing Geriatric Oncology.”
fortunate and successful in the sport; I even
any sort of physical challenges you have.
went to the State Championships.”
Walking was a huge challenge for me—but
Q: When did you first aspire
people told me that I looked confident and
to become a doctor?
Q: When did you first start
that I looked like I knew what I was doing .
A: “Before I knew how to read, my parents
aspiring to enter the pageant?
. . really all I was doing was thinking positive
bought me an anatomy book. I couldn’t read
A: “This was actually my first pageant
and focusing on having fun.”
it, but I really liked looking at the pictures. Ever since then, it’s all I’ve wanted to do.”
experience and it was a big step out of my comfort zone for sure. Honestly, before this
Q: What are you passionate about?
event I had never considered doing pageants
A: “I’m co-founder and president of a non-
Q: What is something people
before. I gave it a try because people kept
profit called ‘All in the Chalk.’ Our mission is
may not know about you?
telling me that I might be a good fit for it; I
to raise $9,000 to purchase 30 chalkboards
A: “I think it’s funny that I do pageants; I don’t
didn’t believe them until I gave it a chance.”
to put in classrooms all over the world,
wear makeup at all on a regular basis, I don’t
like Mumbai, India. My team and I decided
know how to style my hair and I’ve never
Q: How did you prepare for the pageant?
that the best way to publicize our project
operated a curling iron. All of this was outside
A: “In terms of preparation, I wasn’t satisfied
was through a medium that people enjoy. I
of my comfort zone — but I’m learning. That
with just being thin. I wanted to be lean and
thought, ‘Hey maybe if I win, I can advocate
just goes to show that you should always try
muscular and improve myself through this
for my project,’ and so far the plan has
something you never thought you would be
pageant experience. I worked out everyday
gone well. Hopefully by next May from my
attracted to, because you never know what
and started eating clean. I avoid processed
platform as Miss El Paso Teen Texas, more
you’ll be good at.”
food, large intakes of carbs and doughnuts
people will know about our cause.”
(unfortunately), and I focus on drinking a lot of water. I’ve been very blessed and I’ve
Q: What are your future
overcome a lot of weaknesses through this
aspirations in the pageant world?
experience.”
A: “I’m really looking forward to Miss Texas in September.”
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August, 2014
THE
PHOTOGRAPHER: DAV ANMED
CREATIVE DIRECTOR: JOSH SANCHEZ
ASSISTANT STYLIST: NATALIE ROSALES
HAIR: DAVID PAUL AND MEEKA CHAVEZ OF
QUARTERMANE SALON
MAKE UP (TULASI GOPALAN): CLAUDIA CASTILLO
MAKE UP (VICTORIA SINCLAIR): MATTHEW ABRAHAM
WARDROBE PROVIDED BY: UNION FASHION, NONO’S,
ELLA BLU, AND V&X BOUTIQUE
MODEL (THIS PAGE): TULASI GOPALAN,
MISS EL PASO TEEN TEXAS 2014-2015
MODEL (OPPOSITE PAGE): VICTORIA SINCLAIR,
TOP & SKIRT: A.L.C.
JEWELRY: ALEXIS BITTAR
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MISS EL PASO TEXAS 2014-2015
Miss El Paso Texas and Miss El Paso Teen Texas, directed and produced by Laura’s Productions, Laura Rayborn is the official state recruiter for the Miss Texas USA and the Miss Texas Teen USA pageants, for more info on the girls contact Laura Rayborn at (915) 845-2894 or www.laurasproductions.com
www.thecitymagazineelp.com
August, 2014
DRESS: NICOLE MILLER JEWELRY: DETAILS
www.thecitymagazineelp.com
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August, 2014
Look found at
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www.thecitymagazineelp.com
August, 2014
Look found at
www.thecitymagazineelp.com
125
August, 2014
Look found at
V&X BOUTIQUE
126
www.thecitymagazineelp.com
August, 2014
Look found at
V&X BOUTIQUE
www.thecitymagazineelp.com
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August, 2014
DRESS: JUICY COUTUTRE CLUTCH: TED BAKER
BRACELETS: JUICY COUTURE EARRINGS:
SALVATORE FERRAGAMO
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www.thecitymagazineelp.com
August, 2014
DRESS:
SALVATORE FERRAGAMO CLUTCH, BRACELET, AND EARRINGS:
SALVATORE FERRAGAMO
NECKLACE: JUICY COUTURE
www.thecitymagazineelp.com
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August, 2014
A Safe Haven For Movie Buffs | By: AMANDA NORTH |
130
www.thecitymagazineelp.com
August, 2014
Dinner and a movie needed a revamp and
loved the idea of being served a full meal and
Alamo Drafthouse was the answer for the
drinks during a movie, but the disturbance
clichéd first-date routine. After being spoiled
policy intimidated me. To be honest, it still
by movie experiences at Alamo Drafthouse, I
does. I check that my cell phone is off, not
find it difficult to attend movies at traditional
just silenced, two or three times before
theaters; I can’t have a beer with my popcorn
the movie begins. However, I can hardly
and the kid in front of me won’t stop talking
enjoy regular theaters now, an obsessive
on his cell phone? No thank you.
commentator or cell phone junkie can ruin the entire film.
The first time I heard of the Drafthouse was before I moved to Austin, while my boyfriend
There is so much to love about an
was living there part-time. Two friends took
experience at Alamo Drafthouse, from
him to an Alamo Drafthouse, sworn as a
their push to support local
quintessential Austin ‘must-see.’ While he
breweries to their lack of time-
was in the theater for the first time, enjoying
wasting advertisements; the
a craft beer and gourmet pizza during the
theater creates such a unique
movie, two young women were removed
experience
by management for talking during the film.
customer
When he told me about the experience, I
surprise
www.thecitymagazineelp.com
that loyalty.
that
it
ensures It
is
no
Entertainment 131
alamo Drafthouse Cinema
August, 2014
Weekly calls Alamo Drafthouse ‘the number one theater in America’ and Wired.com makes the bold claim that the Drafthouse is ‘the coolest theater in the world.’ What Alamo does better is provide a safe-place for people who love movies, and what they create is something that no other theater provides. Each location is market specific, enforcing community and a unique entertainment space for an audience to grow an appreciation for film. The Drafthouse’s major principles to ensure this experience are: • We don’t allow unaccompanied kids at movies and only allow babies at select “baby day” screenings. • We have a zero-tolerance policy towards talking and texting during the movie. If you talk or text, you will receive one warning. If it happens again, you will be kicked out without a refund. • We strive to be leaders in presentation quality. • We support local breweries. • We strive to serve quality, fresh-prepared food.
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www.thecitymagazineelp.com
August, 2014
The restrictions for kids and chatting may seem harsh to some, as they are meant to. However, after a completely undisturbed movie viewing you will wonder how you ever sat through “Mama Mia” with a teething baby three rows ahead of you or “The Avengers” with hormone ragging teenagers in the first two rows. If you pay for a movie, you should be giving your attention to the actors, not the audience. It is a simple philosophy, which makes a huge difference that the Drafthouse strictly adheres to. Exceptions to the rules only happen during sing-alongs or quote-alongs for classic films, both of which make for a night full of laughs. Watching films anywhere other than Drafthouse would not have afforded me the possibility for enjoying a Maleficent-themed whiskey cocktail during the film or a hearty stew themed for “The Hobbit.” The Alamo Drafthouse Cinema - Montecillo is bound to be a success for El Paso, making cult-like fans out of locals. Beside the eight-screen theater where the audience can enjoy dinner and drinks during a film, the location will also have a stand-alone bar (Glass Half Full) that focuses on quality craft cocktails. El Paso get ready - opening in 2015, Alamo Drafthouse Cinema is about to change your movie watching game! www.thecitymagazineelp.com
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AUGUST 50
o
o
November, 2013
off
in registration
Come and Dance with us! Jazz • Ballet • Tap Hip hop • Aerial
Any questions? Call 915 585 1911 6910 North Mesa St#79912 (behind Dollar General)
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August, 2014
Fancy Meeting You Here! | By: AUDREY TOLLIVER |
Hal Marcus - Artist 1. If you had to paint yourself what would you be wearing and where would you be? Well, I would be wearing my signature hat and my Hawaiian shirt and then I would be in my gallery or my studio painting. 2. What’s your favorite picture you’ve painted? My favorite picture I’ve painted is the one I just finished today and it’s called “The Magician’s Muse.” 3. If you could pick one celebrity to paint who would it be and why? OK, I would paint Penelope Cruz because I like her accent.
Nevena Christi (Rocketbuster Boots) 1. Who’s the most famous person who’s walked into the shop or bought from Rocketbuster? “I put Whoopie Goldberg on hold for 20 minutes not knowing it was her and she was very nice and very funny about it.” 2. What’s the largest order you’ve had from one person? “Tommy Mottola (music executive of CasaBlanca Records, with Universal Music Group) ordered 35 pairs of boots that he saw on our website. It took a whole year to finish the entire order, but we did it!” 3. What’s the most outrageous pair of boots you’ve made? “We’ve done a lot of really crazy boots - we did a full Chinese dragon that wrapped all the way around the foot with the dragon head on the bottom. One of the silliest we ever did was a woman from a place called Krauss Berry Farm in Canada where they make pie and jam and she wanted a piece of pie on the foot of the boot. It was really crazy - we pulled it off! The one thing people don’t think about is that we have to actually like it and I can’t put my label on if I don’t like it, so it did end up working, but it was really hard.”
Marco Gutierrez (Dirty River Boys) 1. You’ve performed with and opened up for some pretty big names. Who out of those musicians has been the funniest and why? Of all the people I have played with, I have to say that my fellow band mate Nino Cooper holds the title of funniest person on the road. His impressions could easily be on Saturday Night Live. 2. The Dirty River Boys are almost always on tour. Have you ever encountered any noteworthy mishaps we should know about? Once on the way to Chicago we foolishly tried to wait out a tornado under an overpass. Everyone around us was alright after it passed, but we found out that was one of the worst places to be during a tornado. 3. Some of your songs seem like they’re set in the old west. Where does that inspiration come from? A lot of the desire to make music that sounds like that comes from being born and raised in the desert. It’s a beautiful place and I’ve always liked trying to musically replicate the feeling it gives me. 4. Do you have a favorite venue to perform in that just feels like a perfect fit? The Granada Theater in Dallas is an amazing place for us to play. It has the 1920s old theater vibe. They treat us great, the sound system is killer, and the people that come out are there only for music. www.thecitymagazineelp.com
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August, 2014
and
out | By: NATALIE ROSALES |
Although we won’t be feeling the summer to fall transition until about late October, it’s still important to always dress for the season. With that being said, let’s take a look at some simple but stylish changes for your transition between the seasons.
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in and out
In
Drawstring pants | Drawstring pants are not only flattering but they pair together with virtually anything and look great on every body type. Drawstring pants are chic, comfortable and weather appropriate. For a casual look, pair with flats, and a classic tee, for a professional look pair with a blazer and some pointed toe pumps, and for a night out try out a crop or embroidered tank with some fun “look at me” pumps.
out
Patterned leggings | It doesn’t matter how great your body looks, leggings, especially printed or patterned leggings are not a very good look. I would suggest leaving the leggings for the gym and in the comfort of your own home for a lazy Sunday, but never for a day/night out. If you want to play up your pants and don’t feel like wearing a classic denim jean then go for an over-
t
dyed wash in an indigo or dark burgundy wash or add some zip to your hip with zippers for pockets to kick up your outfit a notch.
In
Shoulder length cut | The insanely long Kim Kardashian head of hair is no longer the go-to length; the new look called “The Chop” is still long enough to be sexy but not as drastic as a bob. This cut goes right to the shoulders or collarbone area and we are obsessed. It’s fresh and flattering that even Kim K decided to drop her signature look and sport the new chop.
out
Ombre | This trend is not only tired, it’s overdone. We don’t necessarily think it’s a bad look, its just very overplayed. Everyone has already been there, done that and we think it’s time to drop the dye and cover up those roots.
In
Classic Tees | A tee shirt on a man is a classic look and if worn and fitted appropriately can scream sexy. Men should remember that fitted does not mean tight, it simply means that it fits in all the right places and doesn’t hug the body too much, nor is it too baggy. A small V neck is okay, but keep in mind that no one wants to see your man cleavage -- deep V’s are a no no. A classic tee can be worn alone or can be paired with a casual blazer. Style Tip: Indigo is our favorite color for men to sport this season.
out
Logo Stricken | The oversized logo has got to go -- no one needs to see what brand your tee is purchased from nor does anyone care. Drop the logo and keep it minimal.
In
Craft beer | Before you decide to shun craft beer and label it as a “hipster trend,” let me tell you why you should jump on board. Craft beer comes from a smaller American-based company meaning that the beer is actually put into consideration for quality taste -- remember quality over quantity people. Craft beer not only tastes better because of the higher quality and large amount of ingredients but it also contains more alcohol. If you’re used to drinking Bud Light or Miller, you’re basically drinking water. Most craft beers contain 5-10% alcohol by volume level where as your typical beers only reach up to about 2.5% alcohol by volume level, meaning that it would take about 4-6 Bud Light beers to have the same effect as one or two craft beers. So go out and give craft beer a try, life is short you might as well drink good beer.
www.thecitymagazineelp.com
out
Cheap beer | Because who likes watered down beer?
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His Prerogative 138
August, 2014
| By: MATTHEW WILKSON |
www.thecitymagazineelp.com
h i s p r e r o g at i v e
August, 2014
W
hat is your creation? Is it an art of music, a form of expressive dance, or maybe a beautiful moment on canvas? Whatever the case, an artist is driven to exhibit the best representation of their own talents, but many artists will tell you that there is always room for improvement. In that same
fashion, the art of grooming for gentlemen is something that can always be taken to the next level. No matter if a guy is a low maintenance mister or a spruced up squire, his daily
1 2
routine before braving the world is a personal choice that we like to call His Prerogative. 1
Anti-Fatigue Cooling Eye Gel | By Clinique
I recently read that the mind becomes more creative when it is tired and running on reserves. No wonder all of you artists stay up into the wee hours of the morning tracking masterpieces on Ableton and creating obscure comics like local artist Zeque Penya’s Rasquatch. Although sleep deprivation may increase productivity, nobody wants to look like they just stepped off the ultra long-haul non-stop flight from Australia to the U.S. For those mornings that you have that dark sunken look under your eyes Clinique will help you bounce those bags out with their Anti-Fatigue Cooling Eye Gel roll on. Apply this in the morning to create the appearance of youthful-looking eyes and no one will rag on you for looking tired and worn out. Available at Dillard’s $28. 2
Patio Oil Moisture Mist | By Jao Brand
Summer is all about barbeques, outdoor concerts, poolside parties, and picnics with friends. However, mosquitoes are those guests that are never welcomed for fun in the sun, but always show up anyway. They end up turning a relaxing event with your buddies into a painful slapdance in the park. Thankfully, Joa Brand has whipped up the woodsy Patio Oil Moisture Mist to ward away the winged Draculas of the sky and they recommend not leaving home without it this summer. This earthy plant-based mist is packed with all natural ingredients like Hemp Seed oil and Lemon Eucalyptus oil to leave your skin feeling cool and moisturized on those sizzling El Paso summer nights. The most important factor - NO MORE MOSQUITOES! Now all of you music lovers can go check
3
out music from artists like Eureka the Butcher downtown at La Parada without getting mauled by moyotes. Available at Jaobrand.com $32. 3
Fellow Barber Products
Every Picasso needs an arsenal of supplies to maintain the mane, and Fellow Barber offers a slew of products to help you in the art of most of your manly measures. From shaves to aftershaves, or pastes to pomade FB has all of the essentials you will need to get right with yourself. Sam Buffa created this artfully simple brand to offer an unassuming, non-pretentious product with an extremely high quality. These products 4
crafted in New York are intended to moisturize and nourish without oversaturating. Available at Fellowbarber.com $20-60. 4
Barber’s Powder | By V76 by Vaughn
Many of you artsy guys out there look at deodorant as a form of artistic oppression, but for real, your pits are in serious trouble. Your underarms have been more funky than Rick James at a Bar Mitzvah and your next collaboration needs to tone down the ruckus. Lucky for you the folks over at V76 by Vaughn have a dust that’s going to blow your mind. Just sprinkle this mix of arrowroot, meadow foam seed and rice bran about areas that get a bit moist and you’ll stay fresh all day. It will even give you a more comfortable feeling collar on your dress shirt when applied to the neck. Available at V76.com $22. www.thecitymagazineelp.com
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August, 2014
How to | By: MATTHEW ABRAHAM |
r i a p e R Yo u r
r e m m u S r i a H
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beaut y
August, 2014
hile the sun, surf, and social events of
Hair masks If you want to try a more chemical-free
the summer months
treatment for your hair, a mask may be your
can be great for our
hair repair rescue product of choice. Popular
spirit and psyche, they
masks such as It’s a Ten Miracle Hair Mask
also can wreak havoc on
and Arbonne’s Pure Vibrance Revitalizing
our hair. Even the most follicly
Hair Mask are made from natural ingredients
blessed can find this time of
such as linseed, almond, oat, artichoke and
year to be challenging for their precious locks.
apricot extracts. Masks can be applied as a
Fortunately, there are now several (relatively)
one-time treatment to give a boost to frazzled
easy and powerfully effective solutions to
hair, with the best results usually occurring
keeping your hair looking it’s best no matter
from use once or twice a week. While the
what the season or the weather.
results might not be as drastic as those seen from keratin treatments, many beauty
Keratin Treatments
diehards have raved all over the Internet
Also known as Brazilian hair treatments,
about the amazing changes in their hair from
The Brazilian Blowout, La Brasiliana and the
using these products. Many DIY home hair
Coppola Keratin Smoothing Treatment are
mask recipes can found online and include
all popular salon keratin treatments. They
ingredients found in almost every pantry or
have been touted as the secret weapon
refrigerator. Popular home hair masks include
for celebrities such as Gwyneth Paltrow
eggs, bananas, milk, oatmeal and even beer.
and Jennifer Aniston who are known for their A-list worthy hair. These treatments can actually smooth, eliminate frizz (up to 90%!) and cut blow-drying time in at least
Leave in treatments and conditioners If you’re hoping to find an inexpensive quick
half. These treatments actually add back the
fix for you’re summer-frazzled mane the
keratin (the protein from which hair is made)
new generation of leave-in conditioners can
to damaged or distressed follicles, leaving
give your locks an immoderate reprieve.
hair healthier and stronger post-treatment.
Long gone are your mom’s perfumey,
Critics of the treatment however warned
heavy and even greasy leave-ins. The new
consumers back in 2010 that that ingredient
wave of leave-ins such as Label.M Leave
that makes these treatments so effective
In Conditioner protect against heat styling
is formaldehyde, which can be toxic. While
with the help of yummy ingredients such
though the formulas used in salons today are
as Ginger, Ginseng, Bergamot, Juniper,
branded as formaldehyde-free and typically
Mandarin Orange and Vanilla to help to
are less dangerous than their predecessors,
control frizz. These products are particularly
they
suited to achieve bouncy, shiny curls and can
still
mostly
include
formaldehyde
derivatives or chemicals that can release formaldehyde
gas
when
activated
help significantly smooth out split ends.
by
water or heat. Manufacturers have assured
Whatever your budget, lifestyle or schedule
consumers that despite rampant speculation
today’s new hair treatments provide a myriad
otherwise; their products are indeed safe.
of options for virtually every hair concern. Try one and see if you agree with many stylists who swear by them. You may just find yourself with less and less excuses for having any bad-hair days this fall.
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November, 2013
September Attorneys Worth Knowing Dental Professionals October Local Boutiques Beauty World November Healthcare Professionals Senior Care
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August, 2014
Etiquette
Parental Advice on Keys to a Successful Date
| By: JOANN WARDY |
When going on a date, remember these tips: • Be on time, both picking up your date and when your date picks you up. • Dress appropriately for the occasion out of respect for yourself and your date. • Be respectful of one another. Do not flirt with other people, or come on too strongly. Be on your best behavior. • Make sure parents know where you are going, and be sure to return on time. • Never speak negatively about the person you are going out with, it only makes you look bad. • Thank each other at the end of the date.
Joann Wardy elpasoetiquette.com 915-355-0992
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August, 2014
The Genius of
om ea T L in Washington, D.C. | By: ADAIR MARGO |
A
t the 2007 Texas Book Festival
released book, “The Two Thousand Yard
grandparents. In fact, my great-grandfather
in Austin, the noted Texas writer,
Stare, Tom Lea’s World War II,” which had
baptized him when he was eight years old.”
Stephen Harrigan, was escorting
been edited by Marine aviator Brendan
Robert Caro and his wife, Ina,
Greeley and for which I’d written the
Caro’s response is one I’ve never forgotten
around the State Capitol
forward. “Mac” Greeley and I were both at
and one that proved a tipping point in my
when we bumped into each other in the
the festival to make a presentation on the
life’s work. “Tom Lea was an unsung genius
cafeteria. I’d met Stephen years before
book, I explained.
of our time,” he said, “who made it purely on the quality of his work.”
through Laura Bush, and was pleased to meet the Pulitzer-winning biographer of
Robert Caro, who stood silently and without
LBJ about whom I’d read so much. When
expression, then asked, “You knew Tom
This September, the genius of Tom Lea will be
Stephen asked why I was there, I told
Lea?” “Yes,” I responded, “We’re both
discussed in Washington, D.C. in back to back
him about Texas A&M University’s newly
from El Paso and he was a friend of my
conferences: The Art of Tom Lea: Preserving
144
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August, 2014
the genius of tom lea
Our National Heritage, a case study for
the work, spurred the organization of the
preserving WPA era murals in the United States
Smithsonian conference.
at the Smithsonian American Art Museum on September 24; and, The Two Thousand Yard
Panelists from around the world will discuss
Stare, Tom Lea’s World War II at the Officer’s
Tom Lea’s murals as an example of regional
Club, Fort Belvoir, Virginia on September 25.
heritage and its importance - not only to the United States - but to other parts of the
The conferences are timely. With the U.S.
world. Luciano Cheles, an art historian from
Post Office in financial trouble, and the
Poitiers, France and Smithsonian Fellow, will
government’s need to diminish the number
discuss the influence of Piero della Francesca
of federal buildings in its inventory, questions
in Tom Lea’s work while comparing the Tom
have arisen about what will become of the
Lea Trail to the famous Piero della Francesca
murals inside so many of them. Likewise,
Trail in Italy. During his lifetime, Tom Lea
with plans to build a new museum to the U.S.
spoke about his admiration for the solidity of
Army, attention has been drawn to the U.S.
Piero della Francesca’s forms as well as the
Center of Military History, which includes
serenity of his figures.
82 works by Tom Lea in its LIFE Collection. Which pieces from the collection will be
Islamic scholar Sabiha Al Khemir, a Tunisian
included in the Army museum, and what will
living in New York, will share her favorite work
happen to the rest being housed in a huge
of American art – Tom Lea’s 1956 Southwest
warehouse facility at Fort Belvoir, Virginia?
mural in the El Paso Public Library – while describing the journey that led her to El Paso
John Gray, Director of the National Museum
to see it for the first time. Julia Bussinger,
of American History, recently told me of two
Director of the El Paso Museum of Art, will
while Harvard scholar Melissa Renn will
towns that approached the Smithsonian
present on her first months in El Paso and
share her research on LIFE’s war art program.
asking if the government might take their
how Tom Lea’s “Pass of the North” served
African American scholar Maceo Dailey will
murals. “Communities need to take an
as the perfect introduction to the region.
speak on Realism and Patriotism in the Life
interest in preserving their own murals,“ he
of a Great American Artist and Dr. Michael
said, “because the federal government is in
At the Officer’s Club at Fort Belvoir, Virginia
Tomor will reflect on “Can Beauty be Found
no position to take care of them all.” Dallan
on September 25, a conference introduced
in War?” Though embedded in one of the
Wordekemper, recently retired Real Estate
by Gen. Creighton Abrams, Director of
war’s most gruesome battles on the island
Specialist and Federal Preservation Office
the Army Historical Foundation and Micki
of Peleliu, Tom Lea - in the dead silence the
at the United States Postal Service, agreed.
Costello, Chairman of the Tom Lea Institute,
following morning - noted he heard the song
“We need the eyes and ears of communities
will explore the work Lea did as the first
of a bird. And though he wrote J. Frank Dobie
out there, to keep us informed on the
civilian artist hired by LIFE Magazine to
that he couldn’t paint Mount Franklin while
condition of federal murals.”
cover World War II. While traveling halfway
the rest of the world was on fire, he knew all
around the world, he covered the fight
the more that when he returned home, just
Activities during Tom Lea Month in Odessa
against German U-boats while aboard a Navy
how much Mount Franklin meant to him.
in 2013, took the new director of the Ellen
destroyer; recorded the sinking of the aircraft
Noel Museum of the Permian Basin into
carrier Wasp while aboard the carrier Hornet;
An added benefit to attendees will be a private
the federal post office for the first time
travelled to England, North Africa and China
viewing of Tom Lea’s art in the large holding
where he discovered Tom Lea’s masterful
recording Army Air Forces transport, fighter
facility for the Army Art Collection at Fort
1940
Belvoir following the presentations on post.
was
and bomber crews; and witnessed the
dismayed to see Coca Cola sprayed on its
bloody battle of Peleliu when he landed with
surface as well as loose chunks of paint.
the first wave of the seventh marines.
“Stampede”
mural.
He
Not surprising, considering the post office
Yes, Tom Lea was an unsung genius of the twentieth century and - though these two
is open 24 hours a day. Jacob’s expressed
Scholars and soldiers alike will discuss Lea’s
conferences will merely scratch the surface
concern to the Tom Lea Institute and
paintings and writing published in 10 issues
of what he contributed through great works of
offered to raise private dollars to restore
of LIFE magazine between 1941 and 1944,
art - at least they are a long overdue beginning.
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August, 2014
Unexpected Adventures
Re-visiting Your Hometown | Written and photographed by: MEAGAN KINLEY |
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T r av e l
August, 2014
“Going to the woods is going home.”
F
-John Muir
or many, summer offers a time of
and spend our vacation soaking up time with
a bowling alley or taking a morning run on
relaxation, a time to slow down
family and seeing little old Arkansas as a great
your old high school track, wherever these
and perhaps, even some time to
escape. Two weeks later, our experiment
spots are for you, spending time in them will
travel. For me, my husband and
merited not only an awesome two weeks of
restore your soul and rekindle your love for
our three adventurous dogs – the
relaxation, but also two weeks of rip-roaring
your roots. With it being summer, there may
summer of 2014 offered a much-
exploration, re-seeing our city in a new light.
be other old friends in town. Spread your
needed respite back to our joint hometown
When the day came to finally leave, we were
social wings and invite them out to relive
of Little Rock, Arkansas. Our two week
both heart broken, for the usual sentimental
“the good old days” together.
adventure began in late May with a packed
reasons, but also because we discovered a
car and a 16 hour ride across the great state
new side and a new depth to Little Rock we
of Texas. As brutal as the long hours in the
had never touched before.
car were, (and as tempting as flying would have been) I am always so amazed and
What this experience taught me is that there
entertained by the beauty of the changing
is something to gain from every city, and that
Texas landscape. If you have ever done
there is something special to be found in
this drive yourself (the drive from El Paso
seeing the old as new. As you look ahead and
to Dallas), you’ve probably seen it too; the
soak up the last rays of this summer’s sun,
way the arid desert landscape transforms
here are some exciting techniques to help you
and changes just before your eyes from
re-see your own hometown and quench your
a dangerous dry beauty, into a deciduous
thirst for wanderlust in a whole new way.
forest-like land (the climate I’ve always called home). It was as I was riding along in the car that I had a thought: despite the fact that we were “just going home,” I proposed an idea to my husband that we should use the trip to act like classy tourists in our hometown www.thecitymagazineelp.com
Something Old . . .
Something New . . . Since you’ve been gone, there have probably been some new developments throughout or near your hometown. Ask around and make a list of the top hits you want to explore. On our trip, we came home to find that the city of Little Rock had a few new locally owned shopping spots, one even featuring Arkansas’ new ice cream, a trendy new company Loblolly Creamery. We enjoyed this cool treat in one of our new favorite places, The Green Corner Store on the renovated South Main Street (or SoMa as it is now
Before diving into the new wild frontier of
called). We found it so fun and exhilarating
the place you once called home, explore your
to explore these blossoming new areas
favorite old spots; the diners or restaurants
and to celebrate the growth our city had
you were once a “usual” at. Whether it’s
experienced in our absence (and with ice 147
August, 2014
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August, 2014
t r av e l
cream in hand, who could complain?) The town
outings, these walks down memory lane will lead
also housed another new place, it’s own Altitude
you to reflect on how much has changed, how much
Trampoline Park. As ridiculous as it looked, playing
is still the same – and ultimately they will enable you
trampoline dodge ball and running around was not
to soak in the scenery and natural beauty of the town
only an incredible workout, but it was also almost
you were born and raised in.
too much fun to handle. Since this particular outing included me and all of my friends from high school and college, it was a great activity to help us all reconnect. Needless to say, ending the evening with a much needed margarita did help us feel a little less sore . . . if only for a few hours.
Take a Walk
Splurge The key here is to do something you would never have usually spent the money to do. Pick a place or activity that means a lot to you. If you love food, go out for a big multi-course dinner at a fine restaurant. If you are into the outdoors or sporting, this could mean going to a zip-lining course, or
There is something very organic about walking. The
renting a boat or cabin. For us, we decided to go
act itself forces you onto your feet, but at the same
out to one of the fancy restaurants in town. As
time you are still moving slow. Find a place that
simple as it sounds, buying a nice bottle of wine
highlights the best parts of your hometown. For us,
and tasting the delicious local cuisine was just
Arkansas (if you’ve ever seen an Arkansas license
what we needed to add a little pizzazz to our not-
plate you know it’s alias is “the natural state”) is all
so-ordinary trip home.
trees and river trails so we spent a lot of time simply getting lost in the woods and walking to our new
Wherever you go, the world and every city within
favorite local coffee shop, Mylo Coffee Co. in the
it is so full of potential. Take every opportunity
Historic Hillcrest District. Arkansas is also home to
for travel that falls in your lap. Enjoy the rest
“The Big Damn Bridge” which is an amazing walking
of your summer, and remember that there’s no
bridge over the Arkansas River Damn in Little Rock.
place like home.
But wherever your feet take you on these breezy
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November, 2013
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love
August, 2014
Rules
When You’re in a Relationship | By: JANNET BUSTILLOS |
I
f you’re in a serious relationship Facebook can be detrimental. Unfortunately good etiquette is not always practiced on Facebook, and a simple mistake can easily ruin a relationship. If you’re not sure if you are practicing good etiquette on Facebook . . . then keep reading.
• Befriending someone who your partner feels uncomfortable with could jeopardize your relationship. If your partner doesn’t feel comfortable with you liking your ex’s pictures or commenting on certain people’s pages, respect his or her wishes. Something like this can create insecurities in your relationship. • If you feel the need to keep or hide something from your partner on Facebook. This should be a sign that you should not be going forward with whatever you are doing. • Don’t ever keep pictures of your exes on Facebook. Not only is this a sign that you might not be completely over this person, but also it is very disrespectful to your partner. • Try not to change your relationship status without discussing it with your significant other. Make sure you too are on the same
• When it comes to things you should never do on Facebook, this
page about your relationship. You don’t want to change it to
might be the main faux pas. Don’t use Facebook as a place to vent.
“in a relationship,” and then have to change it back to “single”.
You should never complain about your partner or make a fight
• Having zero evidence of your relationship on your profile can be
public. Not only is this embarrassing, but awkward for your
bad for your relationship. This could translate to your partner as
family and friends to see. What happens at home should stay home
you denying the relationship. Show them you care by occasionally
. . . not on Facebook.
posting a picture or a status update of the two of you.
• Keep it classy and don’t post racy pics of you and your partner.
• Take your time when it comes to adding your partner’s family
• Having a shared profile is not necessary on Facebook. I understand
and friends. Especially if you haven’t met them yet. This can
if you’re married and want to share everything, but a Facebook
be creepy to some people.
profile should not be one of them. What if an old classmate wants to say hi, but doesn’t know who they are talking to?
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August, 2014
Body Art A Few Fun Ways to Stay Active
| By: PATRICK L. MARTINEZ, B.S. NUTRITION, CERTIFIED FITNESS TRAINER, CERTIFIED FITNESS NUTRITION COACH |
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Fitness
August, 2014
S
hounding you about dancing, then you may
you, it’s not easy. A one hour pole fitness
want to look into it.
session can burn around 250-450 calories.
feel. I love my strength and
Capoeira. Even the name sounds fun.
And finally, my personal favorite, Brazilian
ummer is upon us and those workouts may be getting a bit tedious. I know how you conditioning, but sometimes
Capoeira, originated in Africa and popularized
Jiu-Jitsu. Jiu-Jitsu, a martial art originally
you need a change of pace to
in Brazil, is a mix of music, dance, and
from Japan, was introduced to Brazil in
keep you motivated. Sometimes
fighting. There are a few versions as to how
1914. This was the beginning of the Gracie
the heat drains you and you don’t feel like
it came to be, but the most popular is that it
family legacy. Eventually the Japanese Jiu-
doing anything. So mix up your routine. Look
was created by slaves as a way to practice
Jitsu was modified and called Brazilian Jiu-
for some other activities, that you can do
self-defense. They disguised it as a dance
Jitsu (or BJJ as it’s called today), and the
indoors, that will not only be fun, but will help
so the slave owners wouldn’t know it was a
Gracie’s took it a step further by creating
keep you on track with your fitness goals.
form of self-defense. With a mix of dancing
their own Gracie Jiu-Jitsu. It is a martial art,
and acrobatics, Capoeira can burn anywhere
but it’s known as the gentle art. It is more a
A few things you may be interested in trying
from 400-700 calories per hour depending on
form of self-defense than an attacking art.
are Salsa dancing, Capoeira, Pole Fitness,
body type and movements performed. It’s
Most people think it’s just a bunch of guys
and Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu. Not only are these
fun and you learn some self-defense.
rolling around on the floor, but once you begin to study the art and practice it, you
arts beautiful to watch, but they burn a ton of calories when you actually perform them.
Pole Fitness. This requires no dollar
can see exactly what it’s about. Not only is
They’re great for flexibility in muscles and
bills, so rest easy. Pole fitness, while
it fun, but an hour of training or “rolling” as
joints and increasing cardiovascular output.
mainstream today, is actually a few
practitioners call it can burn up 900 calories
hundred years old. With history in India
depending on intensity of the session.
Who doesn’t love to dance? Salsa, Bachata,
and China, men were usually the main
or even country line dancing are all great ways
performers. It was not only a test of skill
So there you have it. A few ways to stay
to have fun while burning some calories.
and strength, but a way to entertain.
active this summer without dealing with the
Dancing can burn on average 500 calories
Today, there are pole studios all across
summer heat. These are all beautiful arts and
per hour. Actual calories burned varies
the world. There are even National Level
really fun to do. So go out and try them and
based on style of dancing and bodyweight.
competitions. Both men and women are
find one you enjoy. Just remember to stick
There’s plenty of places locally that offer
doing pole fitness as a way to develop
with it and keep up with your strength training.
dance lessons. So guys, if you’re lady’s been
core strength and tone up. Let me tell
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153
ast rolo gy
August, 2014
HISTORY OF TAROT CARDS
T
| By: GRACE THE PSYCHIC LADY |
here is a higher wisdom or universal
At first tarot decks were created as a
well, and numerous artists (including Salvador
truth we can all tap into and there
game. The decks were used to play a game
Dali) have used the symbolism of the tarot as
are many methods of gathering this
called triumph that was similar to bridge. In
a means of creative expression.
information. One way is through
triumph, 21 of the 22 special picture cards
tarot cards. Our subconscious mind thinks
were permanent trump cards. The game
Tarot cards have not specifically been known
or communicates through symbolism. The
spread quickly to all parts of Europe. People
as “cards of the devil.” That title was given
tarot cards can give messages through these
began referring to it as Tarocchi, which is
to all playing cards by early churchmen - and
symbols giving guidance and direction into
an Italian version of the French word tarot,
had nothing to do with fortune-telling. These
around 1530.
protectors of the faith were condemning
In 1781, in France and England, followers of
playing cards because they were used for
the occult discovered tarot cards. They saw
gambling. Some sinners went so far as to
the symbolic pictures of the cards as having
play cards when (gasp!) they should have
more meaning than the simple trump cards
been at church services.
they were used for at the time. They used the cards as a divination tool, and occult
Today’s regular playing cards are considered
writers wrote about “the Tarot.” After this,
a bastardized version of tarot cards. Both
the tarot became a part of occult philosophy.
deck types have four suits, Hearts or Cups, Clubs or Wands, Spades or Swords, and
There are also those who believe that tarot
Diamonds or Pentacles. There is Ace through
cards originated in Egypt. It is believed to be
10 of each suite along with the Court Cards.
the sole surviving “book” from the great fire
Predicting the future from a regular deck of
that burned the libraries of ancient Egypt. In
playing cards is called cartomacy.
this theory, the cards are considered to be the hieroglyphical keys to life. The major arcana cards did hold secret symbolic meanings for Sufis, who influenced the Kabala our lives or certain situations. Similar to when
- this is why correlations are
sleeping, our dreams can talk to us through
sometimes drawn between
symbols and we decode the meaning of
the Kabala and tarot cards.
symbols in order to receive the deeper meaning of our dreams.
Nowadays, most modern tarot cards are used for
Tarot cards were first mentioned around
divination or as a symbol-
1440 in a letter from the Duke of Milan, there
system for personal growth
was a request for several decks of “triumph”
and development. Tarot cards
cards to be used at a special event, which
are often used as vehicles
is believed to be how tarot cards originated.
for artistic expression as
154
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DOWNTOWN
UNIVERSITY/KERN
Anson11 $$ H
Tosca Stone Oven Pizzeria $ PR O
303 N. Oregon St., Ste. 110
4017 N. Mesa St.
(915) 504-6400
(915) 532-2700
Go out tonight to Anson11 and try their
Hiding on Mesa Street is the delicious
amazing Grilled Alaskan Halibut with
Tosca Stone Oven Pizzeria. Tosca is known
braised artichokes, heirloom tomatoes,
for it’s scrumptious stone oven pizzas
cipollini onions, snap pea puree, garlic sea
— but pizza is not the only tasty find to try,
beans, and mulata sauce. Trust us, this dish
next time you’re out, order the Mussel Beach
does not disappoint.
Pasta. This dish is loaded with spinach pappardelle, mussels, scallops, shrimp, and spicy marinara sauce.
CENTRAL Los Bandidos de Carlos
WESTSIDE
& Mickey’s PR $$ A O
Basico Bistro Café $$ PR O H
1310 Magruder St.
6006 N. Mesa St. #106
(915) 778-3323
(915) 581-6661
For the best margarita in town, look
For a taste of something English, try
no further than Carlos & Mickeys.
Basico’s Fish & Chips. These crispy
With live music most nights, you
beer battered white fish fillets come
are sure to have the time of your
with a side of truffle rosemary fries,
life eating some of El Paso’s finest
tartar sauce, lemon wedges and malt
Mexican food.
vinegar. This dish is the perfect match to a Cold Draft Beer.
NORTH EAST Edge of Texas $$
EAST
8690 Edge of Texas
Pelican’s Restaurant $$$
El Paso, Texas 79934
1780 N Lee Trevino Dr.
(915) 822-3343
El Paso, Texas 79936
Live life on the edge and come out
(915) 598-5662
to The Edge of Texas for a steak that
If it’s been awhile since you’ve had
will knock your boots off!
seafood, get to Pelican’s Restaurant for their delectable Dungeness Crab Legs. You better believe you’ve never had it this good!
Prices: $ - Low Priced Patio/Outdoor Seating - O
www.thecitymagazineelp.com
$$ - Medium Range Dog Friendly- DF
$$$ - High Priced $$$$ - Exquisite Dining Party/Private Room - PR Happy Hour - H
To highlight your local restaurant in The City Local Eats email: info@thecitymagazineelp.com
155
August, 2014
t r A The
of the
WINE LABEL
156
| By: VIC POULOS |
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August, 2014
W
WINE
hen you’re perusing the wine section
Monroe on the front. There’s also Fat Bastard
• The type of wine will appear on the label.
at your local store, what makes you
wine which features a slumping rhinoceros.
Varietals such as Pinot Noir, Zinfandel, etc.
decide on one bottle of wine over
There’s even a Shiraz from Australia that
must be made from at least 75% of the
another? A study conducted in 2013 by Merril
looks like an airplane ticket. I was easily able
grape variety named.
Research and Associates LLC showed that
to remember these wines off the top of my
among United States wine drinkers, the first
head, simply because of their labels.
most important factor when a consumer is
• The vintage is the year the grapes were grown and harvested. 95% of the grapes
shopping for a wine is a wine’s grape variety.
At Zin Valle Vineyards, we too enjoy having fun
must have been harvested in the year used
Makes sense, you buy the kind of wine you like.
with some of our labels. Our Man’s Best Friend
as the vintage.
The study found that the second most important
Merlot features a new dog label each year after
factor among American wine drinkers when
a live auction to determine whose dog gets
• Alcohol content almost always appears
buying wine is the price. That too makes sense.
to be on the label. The proceeds benefit the
on the wine label. If a wine exceeds 14%
Humane Society of El Paso. But we also know
alcohol, it must be printed on the label.
But after those two important factors are
that it isn’t always a great idea to have fun with
Wines designated as table wines, which
satisfied, how does the casual wine shopper
all of your labels. If you’re offering a serious
contain 7 to 14% alcohol, actually don’t
differentiate between one wine or another?
wine, most producers know they want to have
have to put their alcohol content on the
Frequently, it’s the appeal of one bottle of
a serious, elegant label to go along with it.
label, but most wineries do anyway as
wine’s label over another label. For serious
consumers are always interested in
wine drinkers, a wine’s label simply doesn’t
Of course, producers are free to be as
matter. However, for the casual (and most
creative as they want with their labels,
prized) wine consumer, a wine’s label can play
however, there are several things that must
• Because of a rare allergy, federal law
a huge role in a buyer’s purchasing decision.
always be present on wines sold in America:
requires a statement that wine contains
this information.
sulfites. This rule has remained The impact of good wine labels has been
• The brand or producer name chosen by the
proven. At a wine tasting held at the
owner, such as Zin Valle Vineyards.
Edinburgh Science Festival in Scotland,
controversial in the industry. • Finally, the size of the container must
tasters blindly sampled several different
• The place of origin. If a state’s name is
also be displayed. The usual wine bottle
wines. It turned out that they couldn’t
used on the label, all of the grapes used
is 750 milliliters.
differentiate the wines based on their tastes
to make the wine must be grown within
alone, but could when they were able to see
that state. If a county name is used, just
As you can see, while there’s a lot of room
wine labels, thus proving that a wine’s label
75% of the grapes need to come from there.
for creativity on the wine label, there are also
at least helps with giving wine its desirability.
a lot of restrictions. A good wine producer • To use an AVA on the label, which is a
and label artist knows how to balance this
Many wine producers see their label as
federally approved viticulture area, 85% of
required information with creativity to draw
the best opportunity to draw attention and
the grapes used must come from the area.
the consumer into trying their wine.
describe their wine to consumers. While
You may even find the specific vineyard
some producers focus on the information
designated in this part of the label. For
in a label, others just go for the “drawing
example, Zin Valle wines are frequently
attention” part. Take Marilyn Merlot, for
labeled as coming from the Mesilla Valley
example. It’s hard to ignore a wine with a label
Appellation, which runs from El Paso
featuring a very seductive-looking Marilyn
through Las Cruces.
Salud! VIC POULOS
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August, 2014
TOMATiLLOS | By: ASHLEIGH MARTIN |
the tiny Mexican tomato
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FOOD
August, 2014
It’s tomatillo season and here in the Southwest, these distant cousins of the beloved tomato are ripe and plentiful. The meaty texture and sweet, tangy bite of tomatillo is a necessity for a good salsa verde and the perfect accompaniment to grilled meats. but these tiny, green gems hiding under that papery husk can be used in so many different ways. Look for tomatillos that are firm and bright green in color. Another helpful tip - the smaller the tomatillo, the sweeter.
Tomatillo Gazpacho
(4-6 servings)
Ingredients • 1 lb. tomatillos, peeled and rinsed • 1 tbsp. kosher salt • 2 teaspoons cumin seeds
Bacon Lime Tomatillo “BLT” Jam
(yields 1 cup)
• 1 cucumber, chopped • 1 red onion, chopped
Ingredients
• 2 medium garlic cloves, minced
• 1 cup bacon, diced
• 2 tablespoons basil, chopped
• 1 lb. tomatillos, peeled, rinsed and diced
• ¼ cup white wine vinegar
• 1 lime, zested and juiced
• ¼ cup extra virgin olive oil
• ½ cup white sugar
• 1 tsp kosher salt • 1 tsp freshly ground black pepper
In medium saucepan, brown diced bacon over medium heat, stirring frequently, until browned, 20 to 23 minutes. Reserve 1 tablespoon of
Fill a 6-quart pot halfway full of water and add 1 tablespoon of salt.
bacon fat and transfer bacon to paper towels to drain.
Set over high heat and bring to a boil. Drop tomatillos into the boiling water for 4 minutes, remove and transfer to an ice bath and allow to
Place tomatillos in saucepan with reserved fat. Sautee tomatillos over
cool until able to handle, approximately 1 minute.
medium-high heat until soft and juices released, about 5-6 minutes. Over low heat, add lime juice, zest and sugar. Simmer, stirring
In small sauté pan, toast cumin seeds until fragrant, constantly
occasionally, until liquid reduces to a thick glaze, about 20 minutes.
shaking pan as not to burn seeds. Place cumin seeds in a blender
Add bacon, simmer 5 more minutes.
along with tomatillos and remainder of ingredients. Puree for 15 to 20 seconds on high speed.
Once cooled, refrigerate in an airtight container at least 1 hour and up to 4 weeks.
Place pureed mixture in a bowl. Cover and chill for 2 hours and up to overnight.
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FOOD
August, 2014
Claudia Castillo Makeup Artistry
FB: Bella ByClaudia IG: _claudia_castillo
(915) 313-1124
Tomatillo Toasts
(8 servings)
Ingredients • 1 ear fresh corn • 1 lb. tomatillos, peeled, rinsed and halved • 3 tbsp. extra virgin olive oil • 1 tsp kosher salt • 2 tsp Mexican oregano, minced • 4 red radishes, thinly sliced • ½ cup queso fresco, crumbled • 1 tsp extra virgin olive oil • 1 loaf French bread, eight 1” thick slices • Mint leaves for garnish Preheat oven to 450. Place corn over a stove’s open flame and cook for about 1 to 2 minutes on all sides. Remove and cool. Remove the kernels from the cob, set aside. In a large bowl toss tomatillos with 3 tablespoons olive oil, salt and oregano. Spread tomatillos in a single layer on baking sheet. Roast in oven for 15 minutes. Allow to cool. Add cooled tomatillos to corn kernels, combine. Drizzle bread slices with 1 teaspoon olive oil. Heat a large skillet over medium heat. Place bread in skillet, toasting until golden brown, 3 to 4 minutes per side. On toasted bread arrange tomatillo mixture, radish slices, queso fresco and mint leaves.
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August, 2014
A Choice: Taxable or Tax-Free Income in Retirement? Some retirement plans are allowing Roth conversions | By: TRAVIS HUGHES, FINANCIAL ADVISOR |
Forty
years
ago,
the
Stanford
marshmallow
experiment
explored self-control by offering preschoolers a choice: Take a marshmallow immediately and get only one or wait to take a marshmallow and get two. Some chose the first option; others the second. Soon, participants in some 401(k), 403(b), and 457 plans may be faced with a comparably difficult choice. In its most abbreviated form the decision boils down to this: Do you want taxable or taxfree income when you retire? Recent legislation has made it possible for plan sponsors to allow plan participants to convert their Traditional employersponsored retirement plan accounts into Roth accounts. Participants may either continue
to
make
Traditional
pre-tax
contributions to their plans, let their assets grow tax-deferred, and receive taxable distributions during retirement or they can pay taxes today, let their assets grow taxfree, and take tax-free distributions as long as certain requirements are met.
Traditional and Roth 401(k) Plan Options The type of employer-sponsored retirement plan account you have – Traditional or Roth – determines how the money you save in the plan may be taxed today and in the future. Typically, contributions to Traditional retirement plan accounts are made with before-tax dollars so these contributions can reduce your current taxable income. Any earnings in Traditional accounts grow tax-deferred until withdrawn, which generally is at retirement. Currently, distributions from Traditional retirement plan accounts are taxed as ordinary income. Savings in Roth retirement plan accounts, on the other hand, are made with after-tax dollars so they do not reduce taxable income today. However, any earnings in these accounts grow tax-free and qualified distributions are federally tax-free. Roth retirement plan contributions have been around for less than a decade and were relatively slow to catch on when they were first introduced. As a result, if you started saving in a retirement plan at work more than five years ago, it’s likely all or most of your contributions were made to a Traditional plan account. Since 2007, the number of employers allowing Roth contributions has grown from 11 to 50 percent, according to a 2013 study from Aon Hewitt.
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investment In 2013, about 30 percent of plans that offered Roth contribution options also allowed in-plan Roth rollovers or conversions. Another 16 percent of plan sponsors are expected to add the feature by the end of 2014.
Roth In-plan Conversions
Proud member of PDN Health Advisors
In-plan Roth conversions are not new. Since the Small Business Jobs Act passed in 2010, plan participants who qualified to take distributions – generally meaning they had reached retirement age, were retiring, or were leaving their employer – were eligible to convert all or part of a Traditional plan account into a Roth account. That changed with the American Taxpayer Relief Act of 2012 (ATRA) which makes it possible for full or partial conversions to take place without a qualifying event, as long as the plan sponsor allows it.
Is a Roth Conversion Right for You? The idea of having tax-free income in retirement can be appealing, but Roth conversions are not right for everyone. Here are some things to consider when weighing the pros and cons: • Current and future tax brackets: If you’re young and expect your tax bracket will increase over time, a Roth may make sense, especially if your tax bracket in retirement is likely to be higher than it is now. If you expect to be in a lower tax bracket in retirement, a Roth may not be for you. • Higher tax bill this year: Roth conversions require you to pay income taxes on any amounts converted in the year of the conversion. You should have non-retirement plan savings available to pay these taxes so you don’t incur withdrawal penalties. • Required Minimum Distributions (RMDs): If you won’t need the assets in your plan account and would like to avoid RMDs after you reach age 70½, a rollover into a Roth Individual Retirement Account (IRA) may be a good choice since Roth IRAs do not require withdrawals until after the death of the owner. Roth 401(k) accounts are subject to RMDs. • Inheritance and estate plans: Since RMDs are not required if you have a Roth IRA, rolling Roth plan assets into a Roth IRA may allow you to provide your heirs with tax-free income over their lifetimes, as well as years and years of potential tax-free growth.
TRAVIS HUGHES, CFP, ChFC, CLU, AEP, MSFS, REBC, RHU CERTIFIED FINANCIAL PLANNER Hughes Financial Group 5925 Silver Springs, Ste B El Paso, TX 79912 O: (915) 587-7777 F: (915) 587-0535 C: (915) 479-6666 The opinions voiced in this material are for general information only and are not intended to provide
If you’re intrigued by the idea of a Roth conversion and would like to learn more, talk with
specific advice or recommendations for any
your financial advisor and/or tax professional. They can help you determine whether an in-plan
individual. To determine which course of action
conversion makes sense for you.
may be appropriate for you, consult your financial advisor prior to making an investment decision. 1
Roth account distributions may be tax-free and
Sources:
penalty-free as long as you’ve had the account
http://www.aon.com/attachments/human-capital-consulting/2013_report_Trends-Experience-DC-Plans_
for five or more years and you are age 59½ or
Highlights.pdf
older, disabled, making a qualified first-time
http://www.forbes.com/sites/ashleaebeling/2014/01/03/the-in-plan-401k-roth-conversion-strategy/
home purchase, or deceased.
http://www.irs.gov/pub/irs-drop/n-13-74.pdf http://www.forbes.com/pictures/mjh45kmmj/1-your-federal-rate-is-headed-up-4/
The above material was prepared by
http://www.forbes.com/pictures/mjh45kmmj/3-you-wont-need-your-ira-at-70-12-4/
Peak Advisor Alliance.
http://www.irs.gov/Retirement-Plans/Retirement-Plans-FAQs-regarding-Required-Minimum-Distributions http://www.forbes.com/pictures/mjh45kmmj/4-youre-leaving-money-to-grandkids-4/
Securities offered through Investors Capital
http://www.reuters.com/article/2013/01/24/us-column-miller-rothconversion-idUSBRE90N0P520130124
Corporation, 6 Kimball Lane, Lynnfield, MA 01940, (800) 949-1422. Member FINRA/SIPC Advisory Services offered through
www.thecitymagazineelp.com
Investors Capital Advisory, Inc.
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THE CITY AGENDA august 2014 1 august 1-2
The Sorcerer Chamizal National Memorial will host The Sorcerer, a comic opera in two acts. With music by Arthur Sullivan and Libretto by W.S. Gilbert, this 7pm show will have you laughing your heart out. Admission is $12 for adults, $10 for seniors, military and students.
1
Come out to support the El Paso Chihuahuas at Southwest University Park in downtown El Paso! Info: (915) 533-2273 or epchihuahuas.com
Alfresco! Fridays
August 1st: The Birdogs (Classic Rock) August 8th: Windy City (Chicago Tribute Band) August 15th: Joe King Carrasco (Tex-Mex) August 22nd Abe Mac Band (Country) August 29th Fungi Mungle (70s)
AUGust 2-SEPTember 1
Chihuahuas Baseball
AUGUST 1-29 The 12th Season of free outdoor concerts has begun! Come out at 6pm to the Convention Center Plaza in downtown El Paso for relazing evenings full of music and fun. Info: http://elpasolive.com/alfrescofridays
2
2 august 2
El Paso Downtown Artist and Farmers Market Don’t miss Saturdays from 9am to 1pm at Union Plaza District through the summer to find delicious food, arts, crafts and entertainment; including free activities for kids. Metered parking downtown is free on Saturdays. Info: elpasotexas.gov/mcad/downtown_ market.asp
8.2 Reno 7:05p
8.16 Memphis 7:05p
8.3 Reno 6:05p
8.17 Memphis 6:05p
8.4 Reno 7:05p
8.18 Memphis 7:05p
8.5 Reno 7:05p
8.19 Memphis 7:05p
8.12 Nashville 7:05p
8.28 Salt Lake 7:05p
8.13 Nashville 7:05p
8.29 Salt Lake 7:05p
8.14 Nashville 7:05p
8.30 Salt Lake 7:05p
8.15 Nashville 7:05p
9.1 Salt Lake 1:05p
3 August 3
Spartyka Fallen Heroes 5K 1 AUGUST 1
First Friday ArtWalk & Ghost Tour Experience culture at the First Friday ArtWalk and Ghost Tour at San Elizario Historic Distric from 6pm - 10pm. Shop for delicate pottery, vibrant jewelry, timeless home accents, or seasonal decorations. There will also be unique paintings, sculptures and a “movie on the wall” at 8:15pm. Sweet and savory treats will also be offered. Admission is free; ghost tour is $10. Info: (915) 851.0093 or SanElizarioHistoricArtDistrict.com
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2 august 2
Ardovino’s Desert Crossing Farmers Market On Saturdays from 9am to 2pm throughout the summer, enjoy some of the best vendors at Ardovino’s Desert Crossing’s Farmers Market. With a lush variation of fruit, home goods, jewelry, and some other fun finds this market is the perfect place to spend a Saturday -and while you’ve stopped, why not enjoy a delicious brunch on the patio of the restaurant? You won’t be sorry! Info: soloudmassive.com
Come out and support our fallen heroes with a 5K at 8am at Ascarate Park. Early registration is $25 and ends August 1, late registration is $30. Entry fee include a T-shirt as well as food and drinks at the finish line. Info: raceadventuresunlimited/ Spartyka-Fallen-Heroes-5K/1014/details
3 August 3-4
Bug Awareness The El Paso Zoo will host their Bug Awareness Weekend from 10am - 3pm. Learn about the bugs of the world and sample some tasty bug treats. Info: (915) 521-1850 or www.elpasozoo. org/Event-Calendar.php
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August, 2014
3 AUGUST 3-10
Melodies at the Park Grab your lawn chairs and come out for summer evenings filled with free music from 7:30-9:30pm. Food vendors will be present. Info: (915) 544-0753 or home. elpasotexas.gov/parks/ 8.3 Grandview Park 8.10 Armijo Park
3 AUGUST 3
Music Under the Stars The music Under the Stars summer concert series features local and international performers from 7:30 to 9:30pm on Sundays at the Chamizal National Memorial Amphitheater. Admission is free. Info: (915) 212-0110 or elpasoartsandculture.org
8 AUGUST 8
8th Annual PC Jordan Dr. Memorial Gold Tournament The 8th Annual PC Jordan Jr. Memorial Golf Tournament will be August 8 from 1-6pm at Painted Dunes Desert Golf Course. Admission is $85 per person; price includes a golf cart, a meal, a gift bag, and drinks. Funds raised will benefit scholarships for two Burges High School Students. Info: (915) 240-4848
9 AUGUST 9
Behind the Scenes Adventures
The El Paso Zoo will host, Behind the Scenes Adventures August 9 at 9am. Prepare yourself for a wild day of discovery as you go behind the scenes of the El Paso Zoo. Admission is $15 in addition to entrance fees, ages 7 and up only. Register online. Info: (915) 521-1894
8 AUGUST 8
3 AUGUST 7-17
Eli Young Band
9
Drive out to Inn of the Mountain Gods August 8 for Eli Young Band at 8pm. Ticket prices start at $25. Info: (575) 464-7777 or innofthemountaingods.com/events/eliyoung-band-8-8/
Full Moon Hike / Full Moon Nights
Plaza Classic Film Festival The El Paso Community Foundation presents the Plaza Classic Film Festival at the Plaza Theatre. Enjoy screening, talks, events and more. Tickets vary in price. Info: (915) 212-0110 or plazaclassic.com
9 august 9
Off-Road Triathlon Push yourself to the limit and register for the Off-Road Triathlon August 9 starting at 9am. Participants will complete a 5K-trail run, a 10K mountain bike, and a 200-meter swim to finish. Registration ends August 1. Info: erace3.com/
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august 9
Have you ever wondered what your favorite hiking trails would be like at night? Here’s your chance! White Sands National Monument will host a Full Moon Hike with park rangers at 8pm on August 9. Reservations are required and accepted two weeks in advance. And for those who don’t want to brave the trails, come out to the monument for music, educational opportunities, and the simple beauty of the moon on the dunes August 10 at 8:30pm. This will be one full moon you will never forget! Info: (575) 479-6124 or nps.gov/whsa/ panyourvisit/full-moon-hikes.htm
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August, 2014
16 august 16
Golden Panther Fund Gold Tournament 2014 10 AUGUST 10
Julio Ortiz
Come out for an afternoon of wine and music on August 10 from 1-4pm at Zin Valle Vineyards. Admission is free. Info: (915) 977-4544
15 AUGUST 15
Sleepover Adventures If you have ever wanted to spend the night at the zoo, here’s your chance! Bring your toothbrush, pillow, and sleeping bag ready for a wild night. Admission is $30, registration closes August 1. Info: (915) 521-1850 or elpasozoo.org/ZooAdventure-Schedule.php
Vista Hills Country Club will host the Golden Panther Fund Gold Tournament August 16 at 11am. Admission is $90 per person, $325 per team, and $200 for each hole sponsorship. Each entry fee includes lunch, a basket of balls, a golf cart, 18 holes of golf, snacks, and a gift bag. All proceeds support the Golden Panther Fund for the Arts, Academics and Athletics of Austin High School. Info: (915) 355-1196
16 august 16
Health and Wellness Fair The El Paso Specialty Hospital presents the Health and Wellness Fair to take place inside the hospital installation at 1755 Curie Dr. Ste. A from 11am - 4pm. The fair will feature informed individuals who will educate the public on healthy living options. Some of the best orthopedic doctors of El Paso will be offering seminars. There will also be free health screenings and $15 back to school physical exams. Admission is free.
23 august 23
El Paso Symphony Orchestra presents The Music of Queen The El Paso Symphony Orchestra present The Music of Queen, a night of rock and roll at the Plaza Theatre at 8pm in downtown El Paso. Info: epso.org
30 AUGUST 30
American Indian Artist Show and Demonstration From 1 to 6pm on August 30, come out to White Sands National Monument for a day filled with history and culture. There will be demonstrations and a craft show; admission is free. Info: nps.gov/whsa/planyourvisit/stepinto-the-past.htm
16 AUGUST 16
Birding Tour If you didn’t know, El Paso is a hub for some of the U.S’s premier bird watching. Take a drive out to Hueco Tanks for a spectacular day of observation. Teamed up with a guide, you are sure to see the best of over 200 species of birds that frequent the park. Don’t forget your binoculars, camera, water bottle and plenty of sunscreen. Tours will run from 8-10am. Info: (915) 849-6684 or tpwd.state.tx.us/ calendar/birding-tours-6
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17 august 17
Mission Trail Art Market Experience culture at the Mission Trail Art Market at San Elizario Historic District from 11am - 6pm. Shop for delicate pottery, vibrant jewelry, timeless home accents, or seasonal decorations. There will also be unique paintings, sculptures and photography. Sweet savory treats will also be offered. Admission is free Info: (915) 851-0093 or MissionTrailArtMarket.com
30 AUGUST 30
Opera Bhutan Join the traditional Bhutanese performers at the Don Haskins Center August 30 at 6pm for a night of worldclass opera. Admission is free. Info: (915) 747-5526 or Bhutan.utep.edu/
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Miss El Paso and Miss El Paso Teen 2014 Presented by LAURA’S PRODUCTION |at MAGOFFIN AUDITORIUM | Photographed by BILLY RAY JR. and TOMMIE MORELOS
Montecillo Santi Dwellings
grand opening Photographed by TOMMIE MORELOS
Alamo Drafthouse cinema
Foundation Ceremony at THE MONTECILLO | Photographed by TOMMIE MORELOS
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el paso magazine
November, 2013
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