FineLifestyles SANTA FE & ALBUQUERQUE
WINTER 2017 | VOLUME 3 ISSUE 4
VENTANA FINE ART PRESENTS
DICK EVANS Soulful Mystery
NM CANCER CENTER’S APPROACH TO COMPASSIONATE CARE LISTENING HORSE: THERAPEUTIC EMPOWERMENT QUELAB’S COMMUNITY OF CREATIVES FineLifestyles
SANTA FE SANTA FE & ALBUQUERQUE
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ONE WORLD RUG CARE Mastering The Fine Art of Professional Rug Care
VISIT OUR NEW GALLERY! 2100 Osuna Rd NE, Albuquerque
One World Rug Care & Gallery has been selected as “Top 72 Rug Care Experts” By The Carpet Collectors Guide. We carry fine art and area rugs from around the world. You are invited to our gallery for a cup of tea or coffee while you soak in the sheer beauty of our showroom. Enlighten your senses at One World Rug Care & Gallery.
One World Rug Care and Gallery
2100 Osuna Rd. NE, Albuquerque · 505.821.0302 · OneWorldRugCare.com
Super KonTiki
Rolex GMT Master II
P-38 Lightning
Pre-owned timepieces, including Omega Rolex Cartier IWC Panerai Patek Philippe Rolex Service on Premises. Visit our website for pricing and availability.
World Class Watches 505.992.0200 | 216 McKenzie Street, Santa Fe | www.wcwtimepieces.com
A good night’s sleep shouldn’t be a luxury. A good night’s sleep shouldn’t be a luxury.
But your mattress can. But your mattress can. At Sleep and Dream, we’re not your typical mattress store. Luxury and value go hand-in-hand. That’s why we offer a bed-in-a-box starting at $799. But because some people don’t put a price on a good night’s sleep, we also offer mattresses from Vispring, Posh+Lavish and Hypnos. Come in and discover what will give you a good night’s sleep.
510 West Cordova Road
Santa Fe, NM 87505
|
mysleepanddream.com
|
505.988.9195
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SANTA FE & ALBUQUERQUE
Enjoy life with a view FEʼS SANTA
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Create a unique outdoor living space using shade sails of different sizes and colors. • • • • • • • •
Shade Sails Patio Wind & Solar Screens 505.474.6460 505.474.6460 Patio Covers Window & Door Awnings Fixed & Retractable Albuquerque A ning.Com Commercial & Residential 505.243.9089 505.243.9089 Best Prices & Warranties 20 Years Local & Family Owned Your destination for New Mexico style romance.
FIRST WORD With Fine Lifestyles editor EMMALY WIEDERHOLT
HAVE YOU EVER NOTICED there’s a certain aroma particular to winter in New Mexico? There’s piñon, for sure, but also something sweet and serene. It’s an ineffable scent that makes one want to cuddle up by a fire with a good book. However, winter in the Land of Enchantment is full of enchanting happenings and creative energy. The Bosque del Apache National Wildlife Refuge is in full glory, and many folks are in full gear. For artists like our cover’s Dick Evans, the colder months can be the perfect time to combine imagination with the stark horizons of the southwest. For tinkerers and hobbyists, makerspaces like Quelab are great places to flesh out new ideas and connect with communities of creatives. Winter is also punctuated by the holidays – a time to give thanks and enjoy the company of loved ones. It’s important to remember those who do the thankless work of helping people in need. This issue features two such non-profits: the New Mexico Cancer Center and Listening Horse Therapeutic Riding. Yes, winter is a time to both get out and stay in, as well as a time to give and receive. Precious daylight hours can be filled with inspiration while nights can be spent curled up with a warming libation and the most recent copy of Fine Lifestyles. We hope this season finds you surrounded by love and filled with goodwill.
Emmaly
FineLifestyles SANTA FE & ALBUQUERQUE
WINTER 2017 Volume 3 Issue 4 EDITOR Emmaly Wiederholt emmalyw@finelifestylessw.com DESIGN DeAnne Bell COVER ART Dick Evans PHOTOGRAPHY Caitlin Elizabeth Paulina Gwaltney Herschel Mair Jennifer Lake Daniel Quat Ernest Trujillo CONTRIBUTING WRITERS Deborah Stone PUBLISHER Mike Puzey mikep@finelifestylessw.com 910.508.3694 SALES MANAGER Joe Encinias joee@finelifestylessw.com 505.250.2202
SALES MANAGER
PUBLISHER
Mike Puzey mikep@finelifestylessw.com 910.508.3694
Joe Encinias joee@finelifestylessw.com 505.250.2202
Fine Lifestyles Santa Fe, is published four times a year by Fine Magazines, LLC. We reserve the right to edit any materials chosen for publication including photographs. We reserve the right to reject or accept any article, photograph, images or advertisement. All contents of Fine Magazines, LLC, publications are copyrighted 2017 with all rights reserved, except for original articles submitted to Fine Lifestyles, where copyright resides with the author. No other part of this publication may be reproduced without the written permission of Fine Magazines, LLC or its writers. The name Fine Lifestyles Santa Fe, its logo and material cannot be reproduced without the written consent of the publishers. The views and opinions expressed in the expert advice columns herein are those of the authors and do not necessarily represent the views and opinions of Fine Magazines, LLC or the companies it represents. The information contained herein is of a general nature and is not intended to address the circumstances of any particular individual or entity. Although we endeavor to provide accurate and timely information, there can be no guarantee that such information is accurate as of the date it is received or that it will continue to be accurate in the future. No one should act upon such information without appropriate professional advice after a thorough examination of the particular situation. Return Undeliverables to: 4216 Cactus Flower Lane, Santa Fe, NM 87507
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42 CONTENTS DEPARTMENTS STYLE ...................................................12 HEALTH & WELLNESS ......................31 ARTS & ENTERTAINMENT ................. 40 DINING ..................................................48 DESIGN & ARCHITECTURE .................51 HOUSE & HOME ................................59
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PETS ..................................................... 74 SPORTS, REC & TRAVEL ................. 77 BUSINESS ........................................... 78
FEATURES COVER: Ventana Fine Art’s Dick Evans ...........42 New Mexico Cancer Center .................. 31 Listening Horse: Therapeutic Empowerment ................ 74 Quelab’s Community of Creatives ....................... 78
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FL
STYLE
The Colors of
CASA NOVA
Situated in the heart of Santa Fe’s historic Railyard district, Casa Nova is a dynamic up-market shop highly regarded for its unique blend of art, craft and contemporary design. Perhaps best described as “New African,” the house style is urban, edgy and vibrant with echoes of traditional Africa. Above photo by Trish Allison
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O
wner Natalie Fitz-Gerald likes to refer to her shop as a “visual feast.” Creating a medley of cultural fusion, she personally sources her stock from primarily African countries, though other regions of the world are also represented. “I was born in South Africa,” she notes, “and for many years I admired all the wonderful art being created in rural cooperatives. I knew I wanted to open a store one day and sell those exceptional products.” Fitz-Gerald’s co-conspirator is the evereffervescent Nelly-Joy Irakoze, a Burundi native who previously ran a Santa Fe bed and breakfast. “The best thing about Casa Nova is the joy I feel when I walk in the door,” she says. “I am very fortunate to be part of this amazing gallery, and am happy to be surrounded every day by the unique art and craft Casa Nova offers. It brings me back home each time I enter Casa Nova!” Casa Nova has recently teamed up with maman&moi, a carefully edited clothing collection for little girls based on a simple concept: classic pieces that stand the test of time. Allegra Growdon Richdale founded maman&moi to celebrate the close friendship and abiding love she shared with her mother. The line’s easy outfits are fun for little girls to wear (“a pleasure for moi!”) and effortlessly polished (“gratifying for maman!”). “It is an honor to combine our designs with the beautiful, vibrant African textiles hand-selected and imported by Casa Nova,” says Richdale. “The result of this exciting collaboration is a wearable piece of art that can be treasured and passed down from generation to generation.” maman&moi’s dresses are made of shweshwe, a printed and dyed cotton fabric widely used in traditional South African clothing and African
wax prints. The cheerful fabric is manufactured in a variety of colors and printing designs with intricate geometric patterns. The elaborate designs are made using picotage, a pinning fabric printing technique rarely used by contemporary fabric manufacturers due to its complexity. Other shweshwe designs inspire items at Casa Nova, including skirts and purses, as well as a line of ceramics based on the fabric’s fanciful designs. Casa Nova’s colorful menagerie also displays the work of South African jeweler Katherine-Mary Pichulik. The handcrafted line celebrates Africa through the use of sourced and found materials from in and around Cape Town, South Africa. Pichulik sees jewelry and ornamentation as a sacred conduit for healing, community and wisdom. Fitz-Gerald also leads tours to Africa once a year, an insider’s tour for those interested in exploring the continent in depth. She infuses the experience with cultural and culinary forays, as well as with a hearty dose of safari adventure. Casa Nova by Natalie The Art of Living and Living With Art 530 S. Guadalupe St. 505.983.8558 CasaNovaGallery.com
Top, bottom left and above photo of Natalie & Nelly-Joy by Caitlin Elizabeth STYLE
find your grace exquisite, charming, and enticing accessories for humans, four-legged friends, and home
125 E. Palace Ave, #137 Santa Fe, NM 87501 505.780.5611 wearyourgrace.com
Photographed by Charles Dustin Sammann; Styled by Yanislei Monzรณn Calero
F
World-Class Custom Hats
or Milton Johnson, president of Montecristi Custom Hat Works, a hat goes beyond being a head covering; it’s a piece of art. He has the largest inventory of extra fino Panama hats in the world. “The quality of the weave has to do with the number of straws per square inch and the consistency of the weave,” he notes. Similarly, Johnson’s fur felt hats are sourced from the best suppliers in Europe. Customizing a hat starts with a precise measurement of a person’s skull. A 100-year-old tool called a conformitor makes a pattern of each customer’s head. From there, Johnson and his team use high pressure steam to stretch the hat material over a wooden block selected to produce the style requested by the customer. The brims are ironed and baked on wooden flanges, and then proceed to the fitting of the interior leather sweat band. All hats are blocked open-crown and hand-creased. Styles are determined by the customer’s lifestyle. For instance, those living in warm winter climates are encouraged to go with a dress weight fur hat, which is thinner and suppler than the classic stiff Western weight. With a Panama hat, a hot climate demands a looser ventilating weave. Montecristi also prides itself on its selection of millinery, or ladies’ hats. The store’s selection of decorative hat bands are finely made and one-of-a-kind; Johnson commissions local silver and goldsmiths to create unique bands of the same quality as his hats. Johnson sums up: “What you’re buying from us is the finest piece of raw material we can find, and our expertise in fitting, styling and caring for it.” In other words, a piece of art for the head. Montecristi Custom Hat Works 322 McKenzie St. Santa Fe 505.983.9598 MontecristiHats.com
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Timeless Elegance
Daughter out of Madrid for five years before opening his present shop, DC Knits.
Photos Caitlin Elizabeth
T
here is nothing as timelessly fashionable as knitwear. Soft and sophisticated, hand-loomed knit clothing is stylish in every season or situation. No one knows this better than Dean Cheek, owner of Santa Fe’s DC Knits.
His chic boutique carries the gamut: wraps, ponchos, capes, sweaters, dresses, shorts, pants, children’s clothes, scarves and hats. He takes on several special orders, as well as repairs. His dog and cat sweaters are a hit, and once he even knit a pig sweater!
Dean sources his yarn—primarily cashmere, alpaca and bamboo—from businesses around the country. Many costumers bring him their own yarn and commission a specific piece. Everything is made in-store, and on any given day you can see Dean at work on his loom. Also carried in the shop are jewelry and scarf pins, many of them made by Santo Domingo artisans. The beaded traditional craftwork pairs elegantly with Dean’s knits. The shell shawl pins are exclusive to DC Knits, creating unique accent pieces. “I knit one-of-a-kind clothes for the entire family,” Dean says. “I love seeing people leave the store wearing a piece of my work.”
Dean bought a loom when he was stationed in Europe while in the army over 30 years ago. He started knitting and discovered his untapped talent for knitting and design. Living in New Jersey some years later, his hobby turned into a business. Since coming to New Mexico, he has owned and run two shops—Coalminer’s
STYLE
DC Knits 102 E. Water St., Santa Fe (Entrance on Shelby Street) 505.471.3640 www.dcknits.com
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UNPARALLELED CRAFTSMANSHIP
Undeniable Beauty Santa Fe jewelry designer Joseph De Bella has spent his lifetime appreciating fine gemstones and metals. His decades of experience make him a master of jewelry arts, and he has traveled the world countless times collecting elusive gemstones. New Mexicans get to benefit firsthand from De Bella’s wealth of knowledge, by both appreciating his dazzling designs and learning the backstory of each one-of-a-kind piece.
Tanzanite 7.57ct with Diamonds 1.75ct and Pink Sapphires .82ct in 18kt White and Rose Gold
D
e Bella started welding and woodworking in his father’s workshop when he was very young. In college, he took all the jewelry classes available, and later went to trade school to refine his techniques. From there, earned a graduate degree from the Gemological Institute of America. As a diamond sorter and buyer in Colorado, De Bella arranged apprenticeships with a master stone setter from Argentina and with a master platinum/goldsmith. Brimming with knowledge and know-how, he eventually packed his bags and headed to East Africa, starting his own wholesale colored stone business.
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Eventually, De Bella made his way back to his native Southwest. He and his wife Judi opened their first store in Santa Fe in 1981. Their second store, located on Palace Ave., was the only carrier at the time of Tiffany, Rolex, Breitling and Ebel in the state. In 2003, De Bella decided to change direction. He sold the store and traveled around the world with his wife and four children, covering 28 stunning countries in one year! During his travels, De Bella found himself buying gemstones directly from the source. De Bella opened his current location on West San Francisco Street two years ago. The store features his own designs, which are all cast, set and polished either by himself or by people he knows and trusts. His forte is quality colored stones and hard-to-find
STYLE
Chrome Tourmaline 15.20ct with .47ct Yellow Diamond .56ct White Diamond in 18kt White and Yellow Gold
Emerald Cut Diamond 4.71ct with Accent Diamonds 1.52ctw in 18kt Yellow Gold
Three Stone Diamond Ring with 1..62ct F/VS2, .70ct D/VS2, .70ct E/VS2 in Platinum
Gold Beryls 9.05ctw with No Heat Sapphires 3.15ctw and Diamonds 1.22ctw in 18kt Gold
diamonds. “My goal is to educate clients,” he explains. “Not many people can talk firsthand the way I can about, for example, buying rubies in Burma or yellow sapphires in Thailand. My idea of selling is really just educating.” De Bella has won awards from the American Gem Trade Association, and has been a featured speaker at the American Gem Society. He also served as president of the New Mexico Jewelers Association. Quality is of the upmost importance to De Bella. “Everything I carry is ethically sourced,” he says. “My inventory is certified by the Gemological Institute of America (GIA) or the American Gem Society (AGS) – the most stringent internationally recognized grading systems. Most of the pieces I make are one-of-a-kind. The most I do are two of the same design, which will be made of different metals or stones.” What De Bella most enjoys about his work is giving people happiness: “I get to be part of the joyous parts of people’s lives, whether it’s an engagement, an anniversary, or just a special moment. I’ve known some of my clients for decades. It’s about making memories. I enjoy designing jewelry not only for people, but with people.” DeBella Fine Gems and Jewelry Arts 213 West San Francisco St., Santa Fe 505.795.7497 DeBellaJewelers.com
Multi Color Tourmalines 122ct in 18kt White Gold
STYLE
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YOUR TRUSTED SOURCE FOR LUXURY ACCESSORIES!
Upper-Left Clockwise: Louis Vuitton Monogram "Alma BB," Chanel Leather Camellia Boots, Hermes "Les Cheyennes" Silk Scarf designed by Kermit Oliver, Hermes Gray Clemence Leather "Jypsiere 34" Messenger, Louis Vuitton, Monogram "Bisten 50" Case, Chanel Black Aged Calfskin "Reissue Camera" Bag
BUY, SELL & TRADE-IN authentic handbags, shoes, wallets, scarves, luggage and accessories from designers including Louis Vuitton, Chanel, Balenciaga, Céline, Hermès and Prada!
(505) 795-5979
223 W San Francisco Street, Santa Fe RealDealCollection.com
Cowboys & Indians Santa Fe
72 E. San Francisco Street | 505.982.8280 candisantafe.com | cowboysindianssf@aol.com
SUKHMANI
REFINED REPURPOSED RESPLENDENT
“H
ow do you keep such refined products without compromising?” asks longtime customer Michaela Hart of the Khalsa family, who owns Sukhmani Jewelry and Sukhmani Home, both located in Albuquerque’s historic Nob Hill district. “You always seem to focus on the very best items you can bring to your customers,” she continues. “It’s because we emphasize quality,” answers Hari Mander Jot Khalsa, one of the two brothers who owns the stores. Sukhmani grew out of the family’s 40-year history in the jewelry business. The parents, Gurubachan Kaur and Gurubachan Singh, sold wholesale jewelry for over 30 years before the family branched into retail in 2009. Now, Sat Gurumukh, son and owner, creates stunning jewelry in-house, sourced from items throughout the world, including India, Poland, Tibet, China, Nepal, Bali and Native communities across the United States. He is not afraid to play with colors and textures – like pearls, turquoise or amber – and most pieces are oneof-a-kind. “I like to give people an uplifting experience,” he says. “Exquisite” and “privately curated” are two ways Hart describes Sukhmani’s inventory, which she ascribes to the Khalsa family’s spiritual life and attitude of gratitude. “My dad always taught us that, in dealing with customers and
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clients, the correct mentality is that we one day want our kids to do business with your kids,” explains Hari Mander Jot. “He always said: You don’t need to sell products; you need to create relationships and serve.” This ideology is manifest throughout Sukhmani, from the worldclass inventory and customized service, to the intricate attention to detail and the delicious Hershey kisses the Khalsa family insists all visitors don’t leave without. Perfect gift items abound: jewelry for men and women of all ages, wool throws, cashmere scarves, small statuary, incense holders, table runners, pillow cases, meditation cushions, pottery, and bath salts and oils made by Soothing Touch—an all-natural company based in Santa Fe that is owned by the brothers’ sister and brotherin-law. Every item is hand-selected by the Khalsa brothers, and they source their items—including textiles, statuary and furniture—from throughout India, China, Tibet and Morocco. “We’re constantly getting new products and searching the earth for items that are uniquely beautiful and classy,” says Hari Mander Jot. In fact, Sat Gurumukh recently returned from an extensive trip through China. Although most of the furnishings are sourced from India and Asia, they pop in a Southwestern-themed schematic, adding a contemporary aspect that is fresh and worldly. This is particularly true of Sukhmani’s embrace of color; the stores’ bright hues greatly compliment traditional New Mexican décor. “People come here and say they want to own a house that looks just like our store,” describes the Khalsa brothers’ award-winning mother, Gurubachan Kaur, of Sukhmani. “They feel like it’s a peaceful and calm place. We want people to come in and have a relaxing experience.” Sukhmani Jewelry 105 Amherst Drive SE, Albuquerque 505.255.2883 www.SukhmaniDesigns.com Sukhmani Home 112 Amherst Drive SE, Albuquerque 505.255.2889 www.SukhmaniHome.com Top Left and Bottom Photos by Jennifer Lake Remaining photos by Gurusurya Photography FineLifestyles
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Expert ADVICE
Pros and Cons of Buying Watches Over the Internet
Online Store
DAVID PERLOWIN Owner
PROS
World Class Watches 216 McKenzie Street 505.992.0200 www.wcwtimepieces.com
T
hese days, shoppers can find just about anything they can imagine online. It’s often cheaper than buying from local stores, as well as more convenient, since a simple click can ensure your order. But when it comes to buying watches, is online always better? This pros and cons graph was taken from aBlogtoWatch, a popular website for watch aficionados. Of note in the con section is the mention of authorized sellers. There are several gray market internet sellers, which means they offer their own warranty instead of the manufacturer’s warranty. This problem is getting a bit better because authorized dealers are increasingly allowed to sell online. However, there are still many gray market sellers out there who claim to be authorized. This is when people commonly get ripped off. If you buy a new watch and only the seller is standing behind it, and if it is defective, will they stand behind their warranty and repair it? What are the qualifications
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CONS
Physical Store
• • • • •
Generally less expensive Broad selection Global presence No pushy salespeople Regular sales and markdowns
• • • • • • • •
Returns can be a hassle • May not be authorized • Answers to questions may take days • Popular models more likely to be sold out Can’t inspect watch or it try on Language barriers Screen colors often not accurate Hyperbole is prevalent—why is this a “professional” watch anyway?
of the repairer? And will they repair it with genuine parts? Even if the seller is authorized, the timepiece must be mailed back, which adds to the cost and takes additional time. There are many sophisticated watch buyers who know what they are buying, and they usually know what they’re getting online. But most people who are looking to buy a watch need to be educated to some extent. Watches can be finicky. At World Class Watches, most of our timepieces are mechanical. Many people have only previously owned battery-operated watches, but mechanical timepieces are a completely different animal. People who don’t know much about watches but who are interested in purchasing a
STYLE
• • • • • •
Get to try it on Easily compare models/brands Quick answers to questions Immediate gratification Faster after-sales service Personalized buying experience Generally more expensive Narrower selection Watch may have been tried on by numerous people
mechanical watch can greatly benefit from the help of a knowledgeable seller. World Class Watches has a final distinctive advantage in that I am a certified watchmaker as well as store owner. I can service what I sell. It’s rare to find a watchmaker with a retail arm. It’s an advantage I have over not only internet sellers, but also other retail stores. We are here to do anything it takes to make the watch-buyer happy. Customers can see the watch for themselves, try it on, and assess how it feels on their wrist before they make a purchase. Is it too heavy? Too small? You can only hope for the best when you buy online, but with World Class Watches, you are guaranteed a quality watch-buying experience.
CREATE YOUR OWN PERSONAL STYLE AT ULI’S! Uli’s is a women’s and men’s (children too!) clothing boutique for people with discriminating and fanciful taste. Uli herself is renowned for her ability to dress specific body types and personal styles to their best look. She has a loyal following of clients from all over the country that fly to Santa Fe just to meet with her to do wardrobe and style development.
THOSE IN THE KNOW SHOP ULI'S.
ULISSANTAFE.COM 208 W. SAN FRANCISCO 800 TRINITY DR. #6 LOS ALAMOS 505.662.4558
DECK THE HALLS.... With star and snowflake inspired ornaments, reinvented in shimmering shades of pastel lucite, from ‘THE DUKE and I’.
ALL THAT GLITTERS.... Diamond embellished jewelry with antique beads, fossilized bone, and Tahitian pearls from Peggy Lee Baker Designs, at ‘THE DUKE and I’.
HIGH CLASH.... Custom pillows created by ‘THE DUKE and I’, each as unique as the next....mix liberally for dazzling results!
TEXTILES TO GO.... With a predilection for natural fibers ‘THE DUKE and I’ offers an array of luxurious fabrics by the yard. European linens, fine woolens, rich brocades, elegant jacquards, plush velvets and more! WELL MANORED.... Cashmere and wool plaid ruana , antler necklace by Crowheart (on model), vintage mid-century chinoiserie chair, custom crewel embroidered linen and silk pillow, all from ‘THE DUKE and I’.
GLOBAL SHIFT.... A Guatemalan textile brings new life to a custom shift dress, by ‘THE DUKE and I’.
SHOW YOUR COLORS! Rugs, hand woven textiles, and ottoman poufs in brightly hued textures, from ‘THE DUKE and I’.
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TIDINGS of COMFORT and JOY.... Abound in furnishings that redefine luxury... vintage denim blue lamb suede tufted sofa, with hand crafted leather pillows, and a custom ecodyed vintage wool blanket, all from ‘THE DUKE and I’.
SNAP, CRACKLE, and POP! This hand loomed rug, a Nepalese stunner, delivers all 3 in one fell swoop, at ‘THE DUKE and I’.
STYLE
GILTY PLEASURES.... A golden chandelier illuminates with its leafy charms, from ‘THE DUKE and I’.
THE DUKE AND I
is best described as “An experience to discover” by its owners and partners Randolph Duke and Irene Salas, whose combined experience and talents are as uniquely eclectic as their new concept store in the heart of Santa Fe. Randolph established himself with his namesake fashion brand and his resurrection of the iconic Halston brand, not to mention the vast list of celebrities he has dressed. Irene’s extensive background in textiles and custom design includes her own retail stores and businesses. Together, they are focusing on their shared passions with THE DUKE and I, a newly renovated 3,000 sq. ft. historic adobe building with many rooms that allow for both an intimate and surprising experience for customers and clientele. A highly curated aesthetic prevails with unexpected offerings created exclusively for the store, from world textiles reimagined into one-of-kind apparel creations to eco-dyed linens bringing new life to table top and home furnishings. Local artists create special collections for THE DUKE and I that are thoughtfully curated by the designing duo, including ceramics, jewelry, accessories and more. An important component of the store is an eco-conscientiousness stemming from Randolph’s experience in fast fashion where he saw firsthand the excess endemic to the industry. THE DUKE and I artfully up-cycles antiques, vintage items, various objet d’art and more, resulting in their unique brand of “nouveau chic”!
MIX MASTERS.... Randolph Duke and Irene Salas, in just one of the many treasure filled rooms at ‘THE DUKE and I’.
BAGS, BELTS and HATS....Oh my! Vintage Tibetan textiles in various one-of-a-kind bags, an obi inspired belt, and fur trimmed hat, all by ‘THE DUKE and I’
In addition, Randolph and Irene offer clients everything from custom soft furnishings – like bedding, pillows and drapery – to complete home redesign. “We can help people with minor tweaks, just one room, or a complete interior design schematic,” Randolph sums. Inspiration plays a big part in the duo’s collaboration. Irene cites color and texture as one source and elaborates, “We all love seeing and feeling beautiful things; getting to create every day is a gift.” Randolph adds, “Nature is always my guide. The store is an opportunity for people to discover and be surprised, like a treasure hunt!” The DUKE and I 320 Paseo de Peralta, Santa Fe 505.982.6851 TheDUKEandI.com
THE LATEST DISH.... Hand crafted in porcelain with molten glazes, and custom linen napkins sure to enliven any table top, from ‘THE DUKE and I’.
NATURAL WONDERS.... Freshwater pearl necklaces from Astrid Schumacher Designs, at ‘THE DUKE and I’.
Photos by Paulina Gwaltney STYLE
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DISCOVER
Eternity Men’s Store!
We have moved to
135 W. SanFrancisco Street
Come see our beautiful selection of men’s jeans, shirts, shoes, jackets, as well as shaving and cigar accessories!
505.989.2744
EXCEPTIONAL
CUSTOM DESIGN BY APPOINTMENT 328 S. GUADALUPE STREET, SUITE E • SANTA FE NM 87501 • 505.820.1080 • WWW.MARC-HOWARD.COM
HEALTH & WELLNESS
NEW MEXICO CANCER CENTER
FL
Comprehensive, Compassionate Care
By Emmaly Wiederholt
New Mexico Cancer Center (NMCC) is an independent, multidisciplinary, multi-site practice dedicated to providing the highest quality, most compassionate, comprehensive, patient-centered cancer care in New Mexico. Founded by Dr. Clark Haskins and Dr. Barbara McAneny, the practice has become renowned for focusing first on patients and their needs.
“I
t became clear to us that the future of cancer care is collaboration between different specialties like medical oncology, radiation and imaging. These pieces needed to be able to better collaborate. We wanted to bring state-of-the-art cancer care to our community,” describes Dr. McAneny of the impetus behind NMCC’s founding. In 2002, NMCC opened its flagship comprehensive cancer center in Albuquerque, which offers medical and radiation oncology, chemotherapy, radiation therapy, imaging, laboratory and pharmacy services, all in one 82,000 sq. ft. site. Several years after opening its Albuquerque facility, NMCC opened a second comprehensive cancer care facility in Gallup, for the first time bringing cancer care to western New Mexico and the Navajo Nation. This has saved patients many hours of difficult and expensive travel that in years past had resulted in incomplete and inadequate care.
“We started the Gallup clinic because we were not satisfied with the level of care we were able to deliver to our patients from that area,” explains Dr. McAneny. “They would travel 140 miles one way to get treatment in Albuquerque. If you have cancer and are also travelling and undergoing treatments, you’re exhausted. Patients from the area weren’t finishing their course of treatment. We tried an alliance with a hotel next door in Albuquerque, but it wasn’t enough. We figured: If we can’t bring people to healthcare, we should bring healthcare to people.” An arm of NMCC is the NMCC Foundation, which helps patients with the nonmedical expenses of having cancer. It aids folks in paying their rent, mortgage, even groceries or childcare… whatever people need when they can’t work because they’re in the midst of cancer treatment. NMCC’s goal is not only to get patients through cancer, but to get them back on their feet and able to resume their lives. The doctors and staff address the psychological, emotional and financial aspects of treatment in addition to the medical
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WE ADDRESS ALL TYPES OF CANCER, AND WE TAKE ALL INSURANCES. WE BELIEVE OUR BRAND OF COORDINATED CARE IS UNIQUE—TO GET ALL THE SERVICES YOU NEED AT ONE SITE, WITH THE EXCEPTION OF SURGERY
aspects. In the past 15 years the foundation has been active, it has given away well over a million dollars, helping people pay their bills when they can’t otherwise. “Our basic theory is that our patients are the sick people, so all they have to do is show up, and we’ll even help them do that,” asserts Dr. McAneny. “Patients know that if they need to be seen today, they can be seen today. If someone calls us up, you don’t get: ‘If this is a medical emergency, please hang up and dial 911.’ You get a choice of English, Spanish or Navajo, and then a human picks up the phone and talks to you. If you’re sick, you talk immediately to an oncology nurse. If you need a scan, we’ll set up the appointment and
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HEALTH & WELLNESS
argue with the insurance companies. We try to make it simple for our patients by dealing with the hassle of healthcare.” NMCC’s compassionate model has garnered national attention; in 2012, Dr. McAneny received a grant for almost $20 million from the Medicare Innovation Center to duplicate NMCC’s COME HOME model (Community Oncology Medical Home) in six other practices across the United States. “The fact that Medicare thought NMCC was good enough to award us a grant to duplicate our model across the country speaks volumes about the quality of care we give,” says Dr. McAneny. She continues: “We address all types of cancer, and we take all insurances. We believe our brand of coordinated care is unique—to get all the services you need at one site, with the exception of surgery. Even then, should you need it, NMCC will help coordinate your surgery. All the patient should have to do is show up. And the family should be able to focus on their loved one, rather than navigating the healthcare system.” People looking to get involved in supporting NMCC’s mission can visit NMCancerCenter.org. The link to the foundation is through NMCC’s homepage. While NMCC is happy to accept donations—which allow the practice to treat more patients—they also train volunteers to greet patients at the clinic. In fact, many volunteers are former patients, creating a powerful support system that reinforces NMCC’s compassionate approach to cancer care.
HEALTH & WELLNESS
Fat Reduction from the Experts at
AlluraDerm MD Med Spa is the TOP COOLSCULPTING® PROVIDER* in New Mexico
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lluraDerm MD MedSpa is proud to be the top CoolSculpting‰ provider in New Mexico! AlluraDerm MD Med Spa has won numerous awards. Recently, AlluraDerm MD Med Spa has been the top provider in two out of three quarters in 2017 and is currently the top provider in 2017! The fat cells in our bodies typically become a fixed number sometime in our teenage years. Losing or gaining weight generally does not increase or decrease the number of fat cells. Instead, it changes the size of fat cells. After dieting and weight loss, fat cells get smaller, but the number of fat cells stays the same. When weight is gained, fat cells get bigger. The CoolSculpting‰ fatfreezing procedure reduces the number of fat cells in treated areas by about 20 to 25 percent. These fat cells are naturally processed and eliminated, so they won’t migrate to another area of your body. And, unlike what happens with other procedures, there’s no change to fat cells in untreated areas. CoolSculpting is the world’s #1 noninvasive fat reduction procedure. It’s an innovative way to contour your body by freezing unwanted fat away with no surgery or downtime. With more than four million CoolSculpting‰ ‰
Photo by Linda Carfagno
treatments performed worldwide, people everywhere are getting a better view of themselves, thanks to the one-of-a-kind CoolSculpting‰ procedure.
fat reduction procedure. Each provider’s level of expertise and genuine care for their patients is the reason we have maintained our status as the #1 provider of CoolSculpting‰ in New Mexico.
The CoolSculpting ‰ procedure will NOT help you lose weight. However, if you want to lose unwanted fat and look slimmer in your clothes, then CoolSculpting‰ may be right for you. Fortunately, AlluraDerm MD Med Spa has been helping patients shape their future with CoolSculpting‰ since 2012. All of our CoolSculpting ‰ Specialists have attended CoolSculpting‰ University. Knowledgeable and consistent staff has set a new standard for the CoolSculpting‰
AlluraDerm MD Med Spa 9501 Paseo Del Norte NE, Suite B Albuquerque 505.821.9630 Alluraderm.com *#1 provider in New Mexico for Q1 & Q2 2017
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Expert ADVICE
New Imaging Technology
Digital imaging is available both in 2D and in 3D. While 2D is more commonly used, 3D imaging is used for implant placements. It allows the dentist to detect cysts or lesions in the mouth, as well as determine how good the patient’s bone levels are.
DR. VIRGINIA SHARPE
External bitewing imaging also comes with the added benefit of exposing patients to less radiation. One study suggests that digital imaging may cut the patient’s radiation dose by 40 percent in comparison with traditional bitewing X-rays. An external bitewing may create as little as three to five microsieverts, whereas intraoral bitewings commonly create anywhere from eight to 20, depending on cone length, machine and sensor type.
Sharpe Dental Studio 6 Calle Medico, Ste. 2 505.982.4686 SharpeDentalStudio.com
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igital x-ray imaging is becoming the standard in more and more dental practices. Instead of the clunky old-fashioned procedure, which is highly uncomfortable and ill-fit for most people, now, in addition to 3D imaging, Dr. Sharpe has integrated a new digital imaging device that doesn’t require patients to bite down on hard sensors while the hygienist or assistant runs out of the room to press the button on the x-ray machine. All of that back and forth is eliminated with the external digital bitewing technology. The patient simply bites down on a small plastic groove with their front teeth, and the digital imaging machine takes a panoramic x-ray photo of the patient’s entire dental structure.
Patients can easily stand or sit during the simple digital procedure, as opposed to the traditional bitewing series of up to four X-ray exposures that take several steps to complete. Dentists can now easily open the contacts between the posterior teeth by adjusting the panoramic positioning light. This is compared to setting up a sensor in a holder, placing it in the patient’s mouth, aiming the X-ray machine, and repeating several of these steps for each of the subsequent bitewing exposures.
A final benefit of the new technology is the ability to better control for infection. With traditional bitewing X-rays, dentists must wrap and unwrap the sensor after each patient, disinfect it and the sensor holder, disinfect the machine tube head, yolk and cone, disinfect any soiled countertop areas, as well as dispose of and change gloves. Using the panoramic machine requires no gloves and virtually no between-procedure cleaning or infection control—only replacement of the bite block sleeve, which the patient removes.
The technology, commonly referred to as out-of-the-mouth bitewings—as opposed to traditional bitewings—comes with many benefits. It’s more comfortable for patients, easier for the dental staff to use, faster, more diagnostic, exposes patients to less radiation, and allows the dental staff better infection control.
All the dental staff have to do is turn on the machine, have their patient bite into the groove in the bite block and, seconds later, images are ready for viewing. Sharpe Dental is one of the first dental offices in Santa Fe to carry this exciting new technology, though dentists across the country are increasingly catching on.
The ease of digital x-ray imaging especially makes sense for seniors or children who might lack the ability the bite down on sensors and hold them in place long enough to take the x-ray. With external bitewings, taking necessary digital images is now easier for patients and dentists alike.
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Expert ADVICE
Advanced Technology to Map Your Vision
DR. MARK RASMUSSEN, OD Optometric Physician 1651 Galisteo St, Suite 1 505.983.7746 ultimateeyecaresantafe.com
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ere are a few ways we are taking advantage in the latest and greatest in technology to help serve you by better assessing the health of your eyes: CORNEAL TOPOGRAPHY Corneal topography—also known as keratometry, photokeratoscopy or videokeratography—is a non-invasive medical imaging technique for mapping the surface curvature of the cornea, which is comprised of the outer structure of the eye. Since the cornea is normally responsible for some 70 percent of the eye’s refractive power, its topography is of critical importance in determining quality of vision. A three-dimensional corneal map can assist in the diagnosis and treatment of a number of conditions. It can assist
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in planning refractive surgery, such as LASIK, or it can assess the fit of contact lenses. Corneal topography extends the measurement range from the four points a few millimeters apart that is offered by keratometry, to a grid of thousands of points covering the entire cornea. The procedure is carried out in seconds, and is completely painless. VISUAL FIELD TESTING A visual field test measures the range of your peripheral, or “side,” vision to assess whether you have any blind spots (scotomas), peripheral vision loss, or visual field abnormalities. A straightforward and painless test, it only involves the patient’s ability to understand and follow instructions. An initial visual field screening can be carried out by an optometrist by asking you to keep your gaze fixed on a central object, covering one eye and having you describe what you see at the periphery of your
HEALTH & WELLNESS
field of view. For a more comprehensive assessment, special equipment might be used to test your visual field. In one such test, you place your chin on a chin rest and look ahead. Lights are flashed, and you press a button whenever you see the lights, which are bright or dim at different stages of the test. Each eye is tested separately and the entire test takes 15 to 45 minutes. These machines can create a computerized map of your visual field to identify if and where you have any deficiencies. Please schedule your eye exam today!
THE VALDEZ EFFECT
The Man Behind Divine Dental and How #HeSharesTheLove By Nancy Nielsen Photos Daniel Quat
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r. Esmael Valdez wants everyone in his universe to feel like family. Long before practicing dentistry, he developed a strong work ethic, a deep love for family and friends, and a passion for helping those in need. Valdez made a commitment at 14 to leave the world a better place by sharing the love, support and generosity he received from his large, embracing family. A native New Mexican, Valdez was born and raised in Mora, where he absorbed the freedom and spirit of the open range,
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as well as the rough discipline that life on his family’s ranch required. Valdez found his passion for dentistry while working as a dental assistant for his mentor, Dr. Frank Sanchez. After earning his DDS from Howard University with honors, he returned home and served apprenticeships in two local clinics where he immersed himself in the hometown spirit of caring family dental practices. In 2004, Dr. Valdez opened his first Divine Dental office in Las Vegas, NM, and began the work of creating spectacular smiles. He opened his second practice
HEALTH & WELLNESS
in Santa Fe in 2007. Since then, Dr. V (as he is affectionately called), has shared his considerable skill and generosity with thousands of happy patients. His trending hashtag #WeShareTheLove reinforces the welcoming atmosphere the practice has been praised for. He’s extremely excited about opening a medspa practice in 2018. “We take the time to learn about our patients’ lives outside the office,” Valdez explains. “We know about their work, hobbies and families. Our goal is to know them as people, not just patients.”
Something few people know about Dr. V is his passion for community service. He’s got a big heart, especially for those who lack access to good dental care. John Bunyan’s words, “You have not lived today until you have done something for someone who can never repay you,” have inspired him to participate in numerous international charitable projects. Valdez co-founded an orphanage in Palomas, Mexico, dedicating weekends to building and developing its free dental clinic into a robust practice that now serves over 30 patients a month. His love of giving has led to frequent charitable missions with local church groups whose aim is to provide dental treatment to needy and underserved indigenous populations. Dr. V’s gestures of friendship have recently expanded to the Santa Fe and Las Vegas Fire Departments, where he presented dental gift bags to firemen and EMTs. Holiday beneficiaries of Divine Dental were the Santa Fe Youth Shelter and the Samaritan House in Las Vegas, NM. Outside of dentistry, family is the heart of Valdez’s world. He and his three children—Ashley, Isabella and Ayden – reside on a small Arcadian ranch outside Galisteo. Valdez’s passion for animals is evident in his menagerie, which includes three horses (Cash, Prince and Dandy), two yellow labs (Lilly and Iesha), a new Shih Tzu pup (Rocky), and two new kittens. The family’s leisure time is spent snowmobiling, dirt biking, snowboarding, four-wheeling, shooting hoops and archery, and playing chess. It’s said that home is where the heart is. Dr. Valdez welcomes all patients into his dental practice, as he does into his own home, and works hard to bring “home” into the hearts of everyone he touches. Divine Dental of Santa Fe 550 St. Michael’s Drive, Ste. 2 Santa Fe 505.471.7000 www.DivineDentalOfSantaFe.com
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FL
ARTS & ENTERTAINMENT
NEW WESTERN CAPTURES
OLD WEST By Christa Valdez
Photo by Carol Skipwith
Just minutes away from Santa Fe, Bonanza Creek Ranch transports its visitors back to the late 1800s. Spread out over several thousand acres, more than 130 movies as well as various videos, commercials and catalog shoots have been filmed on the ranch. Last spring, Bonanza Creek hosted multiple film and television productions. Chief among them was the western drama Justice. The stellar cast tells the tale of a town beleaguered by tyrants, and the two brothers set on making things right. 40
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Photo by Carol Skipwith
Photo by Melinda Martinez
Producer and actor Niko Foster steps in front of the camera for a part he feels is everything an actor could hope for. “The two best roles in Hollywood are a bad guy and a western,” he says. “When you can do a bad guy in a western, you have to take the role.” Also in the cast is Jackson Rathbone from the well-known Twilight film series, who plays the pious town reverend, and Avatar star Stephan Lang plays the ultimate evil doer as the corrupt mayor. Unable to tame the mayor and his henchmen, who are hellbent on reigniting the civil war and bringing back slavery, the good reverend aims to lead the townspeople out of harm’s way. When he is murdered for his efforts, the reverend’s brother—played by leading man Nathan Parsons—rides into town in true old west fashion. Parsons, a favorite on the small screen for his roles in True Blood, General Hospital and The Originals, is a natural fit for the genre. The Texan says he misses John Wayne and Clint Eastwood style westerns. Playing a US Marshal, Parsons seeks to avenge his brother and drive out the bad blood in town. During filming, local cast and crew garnered rave reviews from visiting cast members, including Jamie-Lynn Sigler (Sopranos, Entourage), Robert Carradine (Django Unchained, Revenge of the Nerds), and Lesley-Anne Down (The Bold and the Beautiful, Sunset Beach). In an interview session between takes, Carradine poses, “Who wouldn’t want to be in a western?” Sigler echoes, “It’s a dream.”
Photo by Carol Skipwith
By filming in New Mexico, director Richard Gabai was able to achieve an authentic western setting. Producers Tony Perez and Jim Burleson worked hard to bring the story to life as efficiently as possible. The state’s crew base, spread thin at the time, came through in capturing the vision Gabai had for Justice, complete with gorgeous sets, spectacular stunts and perfectly costumed characters—all set against the natural beauty of New Mexico. Justice debuted in limited theatrical release in September 2017, and is now available for rental on DVD, as well as streaming on multiple platforms including Amazon, Apple and Google Play. A trailer is available to preview on Vimeo. Photo by Melinda Martinez
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COVER STORY
VENTANA FINE ART PRESENTS Dick Evans: Soulful Mystery By Emmaly Wiederholt
“A painting without mystery is a painting without soul,” Dick Evans likes to say. “My whole career, I’ve wanted to ask questions more than give answers. A work of art should not give the answer; it should give a compelling reason to search. I like the idea that people might see aspects of the world around them a little differently after looking at my paintings.” Dick Evans, Portrait by Kate Russel
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he native New Mexican is acclaimed for his abstract paintings and landscapes, though he defines the term “landscape” broadly. Evans jokes that, to him, even the food on a plate resembles a landscape. He composes and designs in his mind’s eye, continually looking at relationships between color and shape. The light, space and hues of the southwest especially appeal to him. Growing up in a rural community, Evans had no exposure to art before college. In pursuit of an architecture degree, he found himself in an art class, ultimately discovering his life calling. He received his BFA in drawing and painting, and his MFA in ceramics and sculpture. Evans enjoyed a long university teaching career across many states, including at Texas Tech, University of Tennessee-Knoxville, University of New Mexico and University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee. He returned to the Land of Enchantment in 1990 with his wife, Susan, a sculptor. Prior to his current devotion
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to acrylics, Evans had a career in ceramics. His work can be found in 17 art museums and a dozen corporate collections, and he has exhibited in over 30 solo shows. His art can additionally be seen in several books, periodicals and publications. In Santa Fe, he is represented by Ventana Fine Art on Canyon Road. Evans rarely paints plein air, as he finds it makes him see the world too literally. When he starts to paint in his studio, his lived experiences and emotions come to the surface, unbounded by what’s in front of him. He usually has no preconception of what a new painting will be. He waits to see what color or brush appeals to him, and starts with a stroke. From there, he builds an image based on intuition. Evans often includes an element of foreboding in his work. He relates how, “People oftentimes say to me, ‘I really love your painting, but what is that ominous feeling?’ I respond: ‘That’s
COVER STORY
part of life.’” The artist particularly enjoys going out into the wilderness to fly fish. “When I’m removed from civilization, I’m struck by the fact that life is on the edge. That feeling comes with an intensified awareness of space and myself in it, which I find more exciting and meaningful than the humdrum of everyday life. When I sit down to do my art, I try to put those feelings into it.”
Island of Memory, 2017 12” x 36,” acrylic on clayboard panel
For example, Island of Memory (2017, 12” x 36,” acrylic on clayboard panel) includes beautiful groupings of shape and color, as well as a question about what’s happening beyond the cliff-like edge. Evans finds it has a compelling moody mystery. Or consider one of his personal favorites, Occurrence in the West (2016, 36” x 48,” acrylic on clayboard panel), which is reminiscent of a summer monsoon within abstract patterns. A recurring theme in Evans’ work is a square within a square, like in Along the Way (2014, 30” x 48,” acrylic on canvas). It’s a contrast against the abstract nature Along the Way, 2014, 30” x 48,” acrylic on canvas
Occurrence in the West, 2016, 36” x 48,” acrylic on clayboard panel COVER STORY
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“I have the feeling that most of us edit and categorize what we see, I’m hopeful that some of my paintings are ways of looking at things differently.” that dominates many of his paintings, and could be interpreted as a dwelling or icon. The horizon is also present in many of his paintings, including cloudscapes. This drama of landscape is particularly present in Edge of Light (2016, 24” x 24,” acrylic on clayboard panel).
Edge of Light, 2016, 24”x 24,” acrylic on clayboard panel
“I have the feeling that most of us edit and categorize what we see,” Evans muses. “I’m hopeful that some of my paintings are ways of looking at things differently.” His small painting, Glorious Day (2017, 12” x 12,” acrylic on clayboard panel), could be interpreted as clouds and trees, but he’s had viewers comment that it evokes a fish leaping out of water, or monks on a pilgrimage. Evans likes that his work can be interpreted in many ways. “I’ve always done weird stuff, and I’ve been so lucky that there are those who respond to it,” Evans says of his body of work. To which his wife Susan replies, “It’s not something people have learned to like; it’s something they feel.” Ventana Fine Art 400 Canyon Road Santa Fe 505-983-8815 VentanaFineArt.com
Glorious Day, 2017, 12” x 12,” acrylic on clayboard panel
Portrait by Bill Stengel
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COVER STORY
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ARTS & ENTERTAINMENT
P
aulina Gwaltney believes photography is about inner beauty. Whether it’s a personal portrait or a business’ brand, letting the innate elegance of her subject shine through has driven her to build a life capturing beauty behind the lens of her camera. The Los Alamos woman has photographed and painted all her life. As a child in Poland, she would draw with whatever she could and played with her parents’ film camera. However, she denied her artistic self for a very long time; only after a couple years living in the United States did she decide to pursue a career as a professional photographer. Paulina met her husband while he was stationed in Poland, and moved to the States 13 years ago. While living in North Carolina, she came across a motivational photography workshop. “I decided to go for it,” she remembers. “It was the scariest thing I’ve done in my life. I built my portfolio in my kitchen nook. After six months, I opened a small studio and started getting clients. I learned how to get to know my clients and learn what they really want, which I believe is the secret to a beautiful portrait.” “Everyone is different; there is no such a thing as a cookie cutter portrait,” she says. “I learned quickly that the true beauty of a portrait lies in my client’s heart. It doesn’t matter what I envision. What matters is my client. I use my technical skills to create something timeless and beautiful.” After moving to Los Alamos two years ago, Paulina quickly acquired a business license and opened a new studio. “I need to
create. I wake up every day with the goal of creating something beautiful. Opening a business in a small town like Los Alamos was tricky. I had to build trust.” Her business has since expanded to include Santa Fe and the surrounding area. Paulina particularly enjoys photographing women: “Every woman needs to be seen and know that, whatever age or size they are, they are beautiful and valuable. When someone sits in front of my camera, I need to ensure they feel positive.” Aside from contemporary portraits, Paulina specializes in personal branding, which includes product and service shots, as well as short videos for websites and social media. She can help small businesses looking to separate themselves from their competition. “I truly believe that, to up your game, you need personalized high-quality images and video. Selfies and amateur photographer won’t cut it if you’re trying to up your sales and reach a wider audience,” she counsels. But she adds: “The best selling point is you.” Paulina holds dual citizenship in the European Union and the United States, and loves traveling. Because of this connection, she arranges international photoshoots by providing stylists, dresses and locations. Clients on vacation in Europe can make a one-stop shop for their dream photoshoot. “Allow me to show you how beautiful you can be,” Paulina says. “Beauty begins the moment you decide to be yourself.” Paulina Gwaltney Photography 3500 Trinity Dr. Ste D1, Los Alamos 910.333.6362 www.PaulinaGwaltney.com
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DINING
SAZÓN
First on the Baja Bandwagon Photos Herschel Mair
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ave you heard the news? The wines of Mexico’s Valle de Guadalupe in Northern Baja are taking on worldclass status. Famed restaurants like Thomas Keller’s The French Laundry in California and Rick Bayless’ Topolobampo in Chicago have recently added Baja wines on their menus. Here in New Mexico, Sazón is proud to be among the first on the Baja bandwagon, quickly recognizing the region’s winemaking potential and the perfect pairing these wines achieve with the restaurant’s contemporary Mexican cuisine. Sazón has focused on a curated wine list since its inception two years ago. It carries New World wines with a reserve list that can range across the globe. “From the beginning, the wines of the Valle have been of particular interest,” says Sazón’s co-owner Lawrence Becerra. Outside Ensenada, a coastal town about an hour’s drive south of San Diego, lies the Valle de Guadalupe. “This
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is the geography where the original wines of North America were made,” Becerra explains. “Now, it’s the primary wine district of Mexico.” In fact, 90 percent of all Mexican-made wine is from the valley. Like so many other winemaking regions around the world, the winemakers of the Baja region originally focused on quantity over quality. That philosophy has now moved 180 degrees in the opposite direction. About seven to eight years ago, very good winemakers from around the world – including France, Spain, Argentina and California – realized the terroir of the Valle de Guadalupe was fantastic and could support an enormous variety of grapes. They formed partnerships with existing Baja winemakers or set up their own vineyards and planted new vines. The focus was on making quality wines that could compete with other winemaking regions around the world.
DINING
Sazón has served three acclaimed Baja wines since its opening, but will soon include an entire Baja section of 25-35 wines on its menu. Additionally, the restaurant will host several wine dinners in 2018 that feature the best Valle de Guadalupe wines, in which the winemakers and their owners will be present. “It’s an opportunity for our patrons to experience what all the buzz is about. My personal prediction is that in addition to the current buzz about the wines, in a couple of years people will be talking about the Valle de Guadaloupe as the one of the richest areas for great terroir and winemaking. Sazón wants to be at the forefront of that movement.” Chef Fernando Olea’s cuisine pairs perfectly with these exciting new Baja wines. New wines that will soon be added to Sazon’s already impressive wine list such as the world-class Chenin Blanc from Henri Lurton, the delicious Chardonnays from Lechuza and Corona del Valle, or the sultry and provocative Cabernet Sauvignons from Adobe Guadalupe, will serve as excellent complements to chef’s new dishes like his beautiful interpretations of lobster tail and escolar.
Grape vines take at least seven years to mature. That means the Valle de Guadalupe grapes are coming into their own right now. “I’ve been visiting the valley for 10 years,” recounts Becerra. “The first time I went there, the wines were very heavy fruit-forward wines with a lot of salinity and not particularly balanced. Four years ago, I noticed the wines were dramatically improving in quality, and the number of winemakers had increased. This past fall when Chef and I visited, we were blown away by how good the wines were. They are starting to make world-class wines.”
Sazón also offers an unparalleled selection of tequila and mezcal. This winter, the restaurant has created a number of new seasonal cocktails to warm the spirit. Sazón was recently awarded the coveted Four Diamond Award from AAA, which ranks the restaurant among the top two percent of restaurants nationwide. And with Suzanna Becerra’s impeccable eye for interior design, Lawrence Becerra’s passion for wine, and Chef Olea’s culinary mastery, it’s no wonder.
DINING
Sazón 221 Shelby St., Santa Fe 505.983.8604 www.SazonSantaFe.com
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Don't just sit there looking in... COME IN! Lunch: Mon–Fri 11:00 a.m.–2:30 p.m. | Dinner: 5:00 p.m.–9:00 p.m. Saturday Brunch: 11:00 a.m.–2:30 p.m. | Sunday Brunch: 10:00 a.m.–2:30 p.m.
901 W. San Mateo
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505.820.3121
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DESIGN & ARCHITECTURE
Yo u r L i f e
Yo u r H o m e
Yo u r S t y l e
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Full Ser vice Interior Design
Furnishings
Art
Objects
Lisa Samuel ASID, IIDA, NMLID #313 607 Cerrillos Road, Suite A 505.820.0239
Santa Fe, NM 87505
8 4 4 . 2 8 4 . 6 9 9 9 To l l f r e e
samueldesigngroup.com
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LIFE SHOULD BE
BEAUTIFUL
M
ostly Home is Albuquerque’s newest luxury boutique-size home décor store. Owner Carole Newsom has been in the design business for five years. She opened her store in April 2017. After a career in real estate, the ASID Industry Partner and Certified Interior Decorator followed her natural design instinct as well as the encouragement of friends and clients to fulfill her dream of opening her own store. “We focus on contemporary, vintage modern and industrial design styles. Vintage modern is really popular right now; it’s a fresh look that leans toward mid-century modern,” Carole explains. Her son, Shane, who is integral to running the store, adds: “We have a luxury, custom feel, but we can meet any budget. We strive for uniqueness and quality.”
colors. This leads to a more cohesive and thought-out design.” Carole feels it’s important to incorporate those cherished items you already own with any new design plan. “I love what I do, helping people enjoy their homes,” shares Carole. “Whether you work from home or away, when the work day is done your home should feel inviting and relaxing. Life should be beautiful.” Mostly Home 7400 Montgomery Blvd NE | Suite 21 Mossman Center Albuquerque 505.639.4405 MostlyHome.com
In addition to furniture, Mostly Home carries custom window coverings—including the full line of Hunter Douglas window fashions—bath and body supplies, rugs, bedding, terrariums and locally-made jewelry and artwork. It’s also a great place to find unique and quality gifts. “We really love our local artisans and strive to always have locally made products. Every item in-store is available for customers to take home, but we also accommodate custom orders,” Carole says. “We have that personal touch so missing in today’s world; we’ll come to your home and help you space-plan, as well as help pick out fabrics and
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DESIGN & ARCHITECTURE
Photo by Kate Russell
With Hunter Douglas window fashions, the possibilities are endless.
Hunter Douglas offers a wide variety of window fashions in an array of fabrics, textures and colors. Contact us today. We’re the Hunter Douglas experts, guiding you in the selections that’ll make your home even more beautiful––whatever your style.
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Silhouette® window shadings
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1305 Cerrillos Rd T-F: 10:00 am - 5:00 pm Sat: 12:00 pm - 4:00 pm Sun-Mon: Closed 505-984-8700 www.linsonsdesignsource.com
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Photo: Kate Russell
Sho wroom Hours 9-5 M-F ~ 111 N. Saint Francis Drive Santa Fe 505.988.3170 ~ www.Da vidNaylorInteriors.com
Commercial & Residential Design
Let us create your Dream Room...
Custom made and one of a kind furniture
CI
Cowboys & IndIans of santa fe f i n e f u r n i t u re | a r t | wo m e n’s a p p a re l 505.982.8280 72 East San Francisco Street, Santa Fe, NM 87501 www.candisantafe.com cowboysindianssf@aol.com
Morning Sunshine
Afternoon Cool Down
Mostly Home 7400 Montgomery Blvd NE | Suite 21 Albuquerque, NM 87109 Monday 11:00 - 4:00 Tue - Fri 10:00 - 5:00 Saturday 11:00 - 4:00 505-639-4405 www.mostlyhome.com Ask us about special savings on select Hunter Douglas operating systems. ~B
PowerView™ Motorization
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It moves your shades, so you don’t have to.
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PowerView® Motorization from Hunter Douglas is a remarkable system that moves your shades according to your schedule.* Just program your personalized settings with your smart phone or tablet. Plus, it now integrates even more seamlessly with other home automation systems for a truly connected home. To see PowerView in motion, contact us today.
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PowerView Motorization is compatible with these and more:
*The PowerView App and additional equipment required for programmed operation. ©2017 Hunter Douglas. All rights reserved. All trademarks used herein are the property of Hunter Douglas or their respective owners.6565625
DESIGN & ARCHITECTURE
FineLifestyles
SANTA FE & ALBUQUERQUE
57
Read what business owners are saying about
FINE LIFESTYLES MAGAZINE! FineLifestyles “We made an investment to be on the cover of Fine Lifestyles Magazine and as soon as it was mailed to our targeted customers, we saw results! The revenue generated has more than doubled our marketing investment with Fine Lifestyles as well as increased our brand awareness in the market place. I highly recommend Fine Lifestyles Magazine as part of your marketing program!”
Expert ADVICE
SANTA FE & ALBUQUERQUE
SUMMER 2017 | VOLUME 3 ISSUE 2
Commonly Asked Questions About Mattresses
Mary Domito and Sharon Scott Owners
Sleep & Dream Luxury Bed Store 510 West Cordova Rd. 505.988.9195 MySleepandDream.com
there are still mattress companies making two-sided mattresses. Hastens, Vispring & Royal-Pedic are all two-sided brands that we carry at Sleep & Dream.
A
SLEEP & DREAM
lthough most of the big-name brand mattresses sold in the chain stores carry 10-year warranties, the mattress chains and manufacturers are recommending in mass marketing campaigns to “Replace Every Eight,” as a customer’s mattress may no longer be comfortable even though it is still in warranty. All the major brands primarily use layers of poly-foams, which begin to break down after a few years. Even so-called luxury mattress brands, which can top $5,000 and that are carried by the big chains, are comprised mostly of layers of foam, leading many customers to complain of sagging after only a few years of use.
HOW TO BUY NATIVE ART WITH INTEGRITY
The Art of Achieving a Good Night’s Sleep
NEW FACEBOOK DATA CENTER BRINGS PROSPERITY TO NEW MEXICO
This is one of the main reasons we founded Sleep & Dream. We knew there were mattresses still being made with high quality and much-longer lasting materials such as cotton, wool, latex and horsetail hair, and we wanted to make them available to customers looking for real quality, longevity and comfort. The higher quality mattresses are made to last for anywhere from 15 years to a lifetime. Here are some common questions we have been asked: Why should I spend $20,000 or more on a mattress? A luxury car – which may look beautiful, be very comfortable and can be a status symbol – doesn’t necessarily last any
longer than a more modest well-made car. However, a top-of-the-line luxury bed such as Hastens or Vispring will provide incredibly luxurious comfort and support for 40 years or more! You just need to start thinking about the bed differently. A bed is not a throwaway commodity (as it seems to be with the big brands) but a lifetime investment in your health, luxury and overall improved quality of life. Customers who know the benefits of a true luxury bed are passionate about the important role it plays in their life. If we are lucky enough to live to 90, we will have spent 30 years sleeping! Do they still make two-sided beds you can flip? Although the big-name brands have all been one sided for many years now,
Why should I consider an adjustable bed? With the advent of the digital age and everyone using computers for work and play, the demand for adjustable beds is greater than ever before. Gone is the notion of a hospital bed; adjustable beds fit in with today's active lifestyles. Many people like to use their computer while in bed as well as read or watch TV. Adjustable beds eliminate the need for putting multiple pillows behind you to prop yourself up. In addition, adjustable beds are terrific for helping people with many health issues, such as acid reflux and elevating feet for circulation. These days, the motors are whisper quiet, and some models offer a chaise lounge position for relaxing as well as massage features. An adjustable bed makes it that much easier to find your perfect comfort position. What is the difference between a California King and a regular king mattress? A California king is 72” x 84” and a regular or standard king is 76” x 80”. It is recommended that your mattress be at least eight inches longer than your height for maximum comfort, so a California King may be a wise choice if you are over six feet tall. What are the dimensions of a mattress? First, keep in mind that there can be up to a one inch or so
variance in the actual measurement of a mattress, depending on the manufacturer. A twin measures 38” x 74”, sometimes 39” x 75”. A full/double is 54” x 75”. A queen is 60” x 80”. A standard/regular/Eastern king is 76” x 80”. A California king is 72” x 84”. Do they make custom size mattresses? The big-name brands in the chains are volume driven and do not do any custom sizes. However, there are manufacturers that do. Vispring and Royal-Pedic are two companies that will do almost any size requested, both of which we carry at Sleep & Dream. How important is a pillow to getting a good night’s sleep? We like to call the pillow a “bed for your head.” The pillow completes the job of the mattress, cradling the head and supporting it comfortably so the upper vertebrae stay in proper alignment. Ever woken up with your head and neck in a bad position? Not a good feeling. We recommend trying out pillows in the store until you find the one that works best for you, and then using that same pillow throughout the process of laying down and testing the mattresses in the store. These days there are a wide variety of sizes and materials to suit every person’s preference.
LOCAL ART SCENE BLOOMS IN THE SUMMER
Sharon Scott Sleep & Dream Luxury Bed Store
Art
The
of Achieving a Good Night’s Sleep Photos Megan Avina
While we all wish our sleeping experiences were that of blissfully floating on a cloud, life sometimes doesn’t deliver, and the consequences of not getting a good night’s sleep can quickly add up. As scientists learn more about the importance of rest, it’s been proven that waking up with a stiff neck or back pain can have detrimental effects on one’s day and overall health as time goes by. Unfortunately, mattresses from mainstream manufacturers can wear out quickly, leading to discomfort. It seems they just don’t make mattresses the way they used to. Or do they?
WE WANT TO FIND THE BEST FIT FOR YOUR BODY, SLEEPING HABITS AND PREFERENCES
M Expert ADVICE
ary Domito, locally known as Mattress Mary, is a 20year industry veteran in the field of getting a good night’s sleep. She worked corporate management for a large mattress chain in California before moving to Taos 13 years ago and opening Sleep Sanctuary. The guiding principles that propelled her stores to become lauded local businesses—integrity and quality— are the same principles with which she and business partner/longtime mattress industry veteran Sharon Scott emphasize at Sleep & Dream, Santa Fe’s locally owned luxury bed store which offers high quality mattresses and bedding accessories.
Why It Matters Who Changes Your Watch Battery
“Opening Sleep & Dream is a vision we’ve had for quite some time after assessing the retail mattress landscape,” Domito relates. Scott adds: “The quality is not just in the giant name brands. We provide a better shopping experience to our customers, as well as offer a more natural product.”
‘More natural’ aren’t words Domito and Scott take lightly. The brands of mattresses they carry—including Hästens, Vispring, Hypnos, Posh+Lavish and Sol Bed-In-A-Box—use natural materials like wool, cotton, horsetail, camel hair, silk and latex to create state-of-the-art mattresses with longer wear-ability. “These multi-generational owned and operated mattress companies are making mattresses the way they used to: by using nature’s own materials,” shares Scott.
“Ninety percent of the product on our floor is all-natural,” Domito describes. “It’s sad to hear people say, ‘I spent $4,000 on my mattress and now it’s sagging just a few years later.’” Domito explains how most mattresses are made of synthetic foam which can
The Swedish company Hästens has boasted handcrafted beds made from ethically-sourced natural materials since 1852. Similarly, for over a century, Britain’s Vispring and Hypnos have been using the finest materials nature can offer to refine the balance between spring size, tension and resilience. California’s Posh+Lavish has engineered mattresses that ingeniously address the spine’s need for comfort and support. Lastly, Sol Bed-In-ABox mattresses are designed for ease and resiliency, and can be shipped anywhere within the contiguous 48 states.
quickly break down. Sleep & Dream’s brands incorporate materials that are designed by nature to last longer and endure. In fact, even the fire-retardant casing is made of naturally sourced wool. “I would challenge anyone to tell me they’re at the top of their game when they haven’t had a good night’s sleep,” Domito asserts. “Getting good sleep is important on so many levels. How vital or critical is the mattress? It’s where you’re laying your body. If you wake up sore, it affects your wellness. The difference with our mattresses is that they do support the body over time.” What can buyers do to ensure they are buying the right mattress for their body? Domito and Scott say the most common mistake is a lack of desire to lay down and try out a mattress. When it comes to a purchase as important and longlasting as a bed, giving a prospective mattress a ‘test rest’ is paramount. Regarding spending, there are those who believe getting the least expensive mattress possible is the best deal, while others believe the costliest bed must necessarily be the finest. While buying a mattress in one’s budget is an important consideration, price isn’t always
L–R: Sharon Scott, Mary Domito
indicative of the right fit. In fact, when new customers come in to Sleep & Dream, Domito and Scott talk to them for a while to determine any sleeping issues, as well as to discern sleep habits and needs, before even beginning to lay on mattresses. “This is your sleep and health!” Domito exclaims. Scott adds: “We want to find the best fit for your body, sleeping habits and preferences.” Do they make mattresses the way they used to? Absolutely! You just have to know where to look in order to discover the hidden treasures of a greats night’s rest. Sleep & Dream 510 West Cordova Rd. 505.988.9195 MySleepandDream.com
DAVID PERLOWIN Owner
World Class Watches 216 McKenzie Street 505.992.0200 www.wcwtimepieces.com
capacitors fail to charge, changing them usually fails to re-start the movement.
W
hether servicing a fine timepiece or changing a battery in a Timex, one thing we at World Class Watches never do is touch a part with our bare fingers. All too often, we open a watch only to see someone has signed their work with a big, oily fingerprint, and sometimes much worse. Our goal when doing any work on a timepiece is to work like a ghost. This means no fingerprints, no scratches, no broken parts; just the work performed correctly giving you a fully functioning watch. A watch battery, or button cell, is a round disc that puts out a tiny amount of voltage over a period of time. This runs the movement, allowing the watch to tell time. Most button cells are comprised of silver oxide or lithium. There are also rechargeable batteries, called capacitors, that last many years, most often in Japanese movements. When these
Expert ADVICE
Button cells should last between 16 and 24 months. Anything less indicates that the movement is running at reduced efficiency. When this happens, there are two options we offer our clients, depending on the quality and manufacturer of the movement. One option is to replace the movement with a new one, assuming that movement is available. The second option is to refurbish the existing movement, restoring it to its prior operating efficiency. Both options require an investment in the timepiece. Many times, when a battery is changed, we also perform a battery service. This entails cleaning the case and, if applicable, the bracelet, replacing worn gaskets, and performing water resistance testing. Many times this extra service is a nominal charge. The battery service is also highly recommended when changing batteries in diver-type watches, or any watch
with a water resistance rating. World Class Watches utilizes four different water resistance testers: two wet testers and two dry testers to determine water-proofness. The case and bracelet cleaning involves ultrasonic cleaning, then steam cleaning. To some, this might seem over the top, but for us it’s just being thorough. Once the new cell is installed, the watch is kept overnight to observe if it keeps time. Microscopic debris, which can enter the watch case when not properly opened, can literally stop a quartz movement or, at the very least, cause it to slow down. This is why we also clean the case back every time we open a watch. Our goal in spending a little extra time and care to change your battery is to extend the life of your timepiece, saving you time and money later.
“We have worked with Fine Lifestyles Magazine for 2 years now. We have found it to be one of the few publications that produces consistent results. We would highly recommend Fine Lifestyles as an effective marketing medium for any business!”
Visit our website at wcwtimepieces.com to learn more about our philosophy of high-quality watch service, or bring your watch into our store at 216 McKenzie Street and experience our professionalism first-hand.
Caring for Vintage Watches Mühle Glashütte Seebatallion GMT
Rolex GMT Master II
Ball Trainmaster Cannonball II
David Perlowin, Owner World Class Watches
Pre-owned timepieces, including Omega Rolex Cartier IWC Panerai Patek Philippe Rolex Service on Premises. Visit our website for pricing and availability.
DAVID PERLOWIN Owner
World Class Watches 216 McKenzie Street 505.992.0200 www.wcwtimepieces.com
V
intage watches are akin to vintage cars; whereas the mechanical make-up hasn’t changed dramatically over the past decades, other improvements with regards to parts and design have made newer models more robust. But just as everyone loves a vintage car, there’s nothing like a vintage watch. And —similar to an older car—taking care of a vintage timepiece is paramount in keeping its value. Santa Fe’s World Class Watches owner David Perlowin is a Swiss-trained watchmaker who brings knowledge and experience to caring for timepieces both old and new. “There are few watches that maintain or increase in value over time,” Perlowin explains. “It has a lot to do with the manufacturer—like Patek Philippe and Rolex—and the model within those brands.” Perlowin explains that the Sport Rolex, for example, is best treated at a place
Authorized Dealer for
like World Class Watches instead of sending it to Rolex because the company often replaces the outdated parts, such as dials and hands, that made the watch so valuable in the first place. World Class Watches has a Rolex factory parts account, and can service your Sport Rolex without ultimately devaluing the piece. Regardless of the rarity of your watch, it’s important to have even the newest model regularly serviced in order to keep it performing optimally. A mechanical watch should be serviced—which means being completely disassembled, cleaned, lubricated, and parts replaced as necessary—every five to seven years. Even if it’s been sitting in a drawer untouched, a watch should regularly be evaluated, as the mechanical lubricants can dry out or gum up, causing stress when it’s rewound. Should you drop your watch or bang it on a hard surface, it should immediately be looked at; unseen damage like a loose screw can cause injury to the watch over time. Additionally, any signs of moisture or
fog should signal a watch check-up, as rust can greatly harm a beautiful timepiece. Regarding changing the battery in your watch, batteries used to contain mercury and thus last much longer than current battery models. Today, a watch battery needs to be changed on average every 16 months. When the second hand starts to jump in three to five second intervals, this is a good indicator your battery might be failing.
World Class Watches 505.992.0200 | 216 McKenzie Street, Santa Fe | www.wcwtimepieces.com
And while battery changes are the most common cause for why a watch stops, in older vintage models, it is often because the movement and gaskets need to be replaced. This is yet another reason why regular service is important. World Class Watches sells pre-owned Rolex watches that have been serviced with genuine factory parts, setting the business apart from almost any other pre-owned seller. New watch brands available are Ball, Eterna and Luminox. From service to retail, Perlowin’s expertise makes him uniquely sought after in the realm of world class watches.
Artist
PROFILE
“I find that Fine Lifestyles is the “Go-To” magazine for our local and visiting clients with discerning tastes. The variety of businesses included in each magazine, as well as the focused articles about local owners and their own unique brand, makes Fine Lifestyles an invaluable resource. When a customer mentions that they saw us in the latest issue of Fine Lifestyles, I know we have a customer for life!” Hillary Randolph, Owner Grace
HILLARY RANDOLPH
S
ince the SOMERS gallery on Palace Avenue was rechristened GRACE in February, the jewelry and the storefront have been evolving on many levels. The GRACE line of jewelry shares the quality, feel and wear-ability of the original SOMERS line, and is drawing rave reviews from customers for its small batches of standout, versatile and one-of-a-kind pieces crafted from 22 carat gold, wood accents and gorgeous strands of semi-precious stones.
wear your
GRACE...
Beyond the jewelry, the gallery itself has become a work of art. Inside, visitors won’t find another cool color palette with the merchandise protected behind panels of buffed glass. The collections’ new backdrop is a vibrant tangerine curtain, painted in exquisite detail across the walls. Hand-blown glass vessels hang at intervals, brimming with greens and fresh flowers. On a quarterly basis, GRACE also exhibits the work of like-minded visual artists. The effect is layered, energetic and immediately uplifting. “Galleries as disappearing white boxes feel so boring and uninspired,” explains designer and owner Hillary Randolph. “I design these necklaces and bracelets to become part of your life—treasured possessions you’ll wear constantly—that are meant to inspire and remind you who you are. The entire gallery expresses that vitality, and our guests love it.”
in style!
LUXURIOUS JEWELRY... EXQUISITELY CRAFTED... PHOTOS: Linda Carfagno
GRACE 125 East Palace Avenue Santa Fe, NM 87501 Gallery: 505.780.5611 Office: 505.986.0288 WearYourGrace.com
Check out our Facebook Page: Fine Lifestyles Santa Fe or our website at WWW.FINELIFESTYLESSW.COM Call 910.508.3694 for more information.
125 E. Palace Avenue Santa Fe, NM 505.780.5611 / wearyourgrace
wear your
GRACE santa fe lifestyle
HOUSE & HOME
FL
Looks Like We Have Work To Do … 4.89 out of 5.00 rating from client surveys since january 1, 2017 – RatedAgent.com
Proud to Represent the Finest Real Estate Brokers in Santa Fe. 530 S. Guadalupe St. Santa Fe, NM 87501 • 505 982 9836 • SantaFeRealEstate.com
Real Estate Market Insights Homes for Sale -2.4%
3Q17
247
2Q17
249
1Q17 4Q16
180 228
3Q16
253
We have seen much more stability in the available inventory of luxury homes for sale, although this number is approximately one-third less than what was available ten years ago. New construction is slowly starting to improve this.
T
he Santa Fe luxury real estate market* in 2017 accounted for 6.5% of all sales transactions and 21% of the dollar volume. These statistics represent a 25% decrease from what was happening ten years ago, indicating that this segment of our market has not fully recovered to the level of interest in high net worth buyers we experienced a decade ago. However, the trend is showing an upward move and if current conditions continue this is likely to change. (*luxury is defined as residential properties $1m and above) DBarker@SantaFeRealEstate.com LBarker@SantaFeRealEstate.com 505 992 3563 505 490 2626
530 S. Guadalupe St., Santa Fe • 505 982 9836 • SantaFeRealEstate.com
The Santa Fe Luxury Real Estate Market Luxury Sales
Luxury Selling Price
per Sq. Ft.
3Q17 2Q17
31.1%
39
3Q16
3Q16
1Q17 4Q16 3Q16
244
This is the biggest decline in average time on market we’ve seen, showing the pressure is really on buyers to make quick decisions when new quality properties hit the market.
2Q17
8.1%
169 159
$334
Sales Price
3Q17 210
$327
Luxury Average & Median
117
2Q17
$399
Significant increases are seen here as more of these sales represent newer or remodeled properties reflecting the higher cost of new construction. Buyers are particularly attracted to smaller, newer properties especially with some contemporary design features.
Luxury Days on Market 42
4Q16
33
We have seen sharp increases recently which is returning the luxury market back to its historical market norms. We anticipate the level of sales to become steadier in the future.
days
$381
1Q17
27
4Q16
3Q17
$438
2Q17
40
1Q17
42.4%
3Q17
47
Average
10.9%
Median
$1,475,000 $1,325,000 $1,438,000 $1,248,000 $1,584,000
1Q17
$1,350,000
4Q16
$1,351,000 $1,229,000
3Q16
$1,364,000 $1,195,000
Although we are seeing some recent gains here, these prices have not changed much over the past 10 years where the average sales prices typically fall between $1.4M and $1.5M. We will see this number surpass the $1.5M mark in the near future.
We see the long-term market conditions to be very favorable for the Santa Fe luxury market. We cannot deny that tragic events in other parts of the Country drive more people to consider alternative locations to reside. More and more, Santa Fe ranks as a highly desirable place to live. Although we continue to lack in employment opportunities, we are seeing real evidence of people with virtual employment relocating to our community. They continue to make up a larger segment of our luxury market.
For real-time neighborhood specific data & statistics, visit SantaFeRealEstate.com/Market-Insights *Data source: All information contained herein is derived from the Santa Fe MLS and is believed to be accurate.
The Locals’ Choice for over Fifty Years!
254 Tano Road
2216 Wilderness Arroyo 213 Camino Encantado
OFFERED AT: $4,100,000 OFFERED AT: $3,450,000 INQUIRIES: 505 455 8686 INQUIRIES: 505 670 8201 ASSOCIATES: Ben Mohr ASSOCIATE: Michael D’Alfonso + Stephanie Duran
OFFERED AT: $1,275,000 INQUIRIES: 505 470 5604 ASSOCIATE: John Hancock
1295 Vallecita Drive
OFFERED AT: $935,000 INQUIRIES: 505 577 5273 ASSOCIATE: Mark Banham
4 Magdalen
758 Ridge Canyon
21 E Golden Eagle
OFFERED AT: $895,000 INQUIRIES: 505 690 6826 ASSOCIATE: Cav Merchant
OFFERED AT: $1,198,888 INQUIRIES: 505 930 4105 ASSOCIATE: Sherie Stiver Zinn
1110 Piedra Rondo
OFFERED AT: $949,500 INQUIRIES: 505 920 2039 ASSOCIATE: Ruby Valdez
OFFERED AT: $925,000 INQUIRIES: 505 930 9102 ASSOCIATE: Coleen Dearing
18 Paseo de Aguila
530 S. Guadalupe St. Santa Fe, NM 87501 505 982 9836 • SantaFeRealEstate.com 98 SW Paseo Encantado
OFFERED AT: $875,000 INQUIRIES: 505 455-8880 ASSOCIATE: Grant Alexander
329 County Road 84
OFFERED AT: $849,000 INQUIRIES: 505 670 8696 ASSOCIATE: Don Egedy
OFFERED AT: $915,000 INQUIRIES: 505 603 1494 ASSOCIATE: Georgette Romero
310 Artist Road
OFFERED AT: $839,000 INQUIRIES: 505 660 3610 ASSOCIATE: Jody Lusk
211 W Alicante Road
OFFERED AT: $795,000 INQUIRIES: 505 660 5170 ASSOCIATE: Robin Zollinger
1450 Encina Road
OFFERED AT: $749,000 INQUIRIES: 505 670 8201 ASSOCIATE: Michael D’Alfonso
18 B North Cloudstone
OFFERED AT: $615,000 INQUIRIES: 505 470 4348 ASSOCIATE: Tom Matthews
25 Arroyo Privado
OFFERED AT: $535,000 INQUIRIES: 505 455 8701 ASSOCIATE: Alex Nettey
23 S Chamisa Drive
8A End of the Trail
3013 Cliff Palace
OFFERED AT: $418,000 INQUIRIES: 505 660 4788 ASSOCIATE: Francie Miles
OFFERED AT: $575,000 INQUIRIES: 505 204 2491 ASSOCIATE: Stephanie Duran
7 Chapala Road
OFFERED AT: $536,000 INQUIRIES: 505 690 6826 ASSOCIATE: Cav Merchant
OFFERED AT: $519,900 INQUIRIES: 505 603 1494 ASSOCIATE: Georgette Romero
393 Calle Colina
530 S. Guadalupe St. Santa Fe, NM 87501 505 982 9836 • SantaFeRealEstate.com 5 Calle Jessica
OFFERED AT: $375,000 INQUIRIES: 505 699 7835 ASSOCIATE: Kathy De La Torre
1953 Osage Drive
OFFERED AT: $353,000 INQUIRIES: 505 577 5909 ASSOCIATE: Tami Acker
OFFERED AT: $425,000 INQUIRIES: 505 455 8750 ASSOCIATES: Natalie Rivera Benavent + Kathy De La Torre
4724 Via Verde Court
OFFERED AT: $229,900 INQUIRIES: 505 470 7314 ASSOCIATE: Ernie Zapata
New Contemporary Construction in Historic District
GAlexander@SantaFeRealEstate.com
SDuran@SantaFeRealEstate.com
lic # 49808
lic # 38495
505 455 8880
505 204 2491
Grant Alexander
Stephanie Duran
Trey Jordan/Brooks White Collaboration
A perfect building partnership on a unique Historic Santa Fe site. Take a moment and sit in this sheltering space of harmony, stillness and rhythm open to the Santa Fe mountains and sky. You’ll get it.
moderninhistoric.com
R
enown modern architect Trey Jordan and Santa Fe’s ‘Under the radar’ luxury builder, Brooks White, have collaborated on this newly constructed paragon of contemporary Southwest architecture. Trey’s careful siting of the building has yielded an entire home oriented towards the outdoors, with impeccably scaled courtyards and dramatic views of Picacho Peak and Sun/ Moon Mountains. Brooks’ attention to detail has created a super-efficient green building with a wealth of beautiful textures created by local craftsman, including the hand-troweled plaster walls and magnificent concrete floors, also finished by hand.
enown modern architect Trey Jordan and Santa Fe’s ‘Under the radar’ luxury builder, Brooks White, have collaborated on this newly constructed paragon of contemporary Southwest architecture. Trey’s careful siting of the building has yielded an entire home oriented towards the outdoors, with impeccably scaled courtyards and dramatic views of Picacho Peak and Sun/ Moon Mountains. Brooks’ attention to detail has created a super-efficient green building with a wealth of beautiful textures created by local craftsman, including the hand-troweled plaster walls and magnificent concrete floors, also finished by hand.
R
moderninhistoric.com
A perfect building partnership on a unique Historic Santa Fe site. Take a moment and sit in this sheltering space of harmony, stillness and rhythm open to the Santa Fe mountains and sky. You’ll get it.
Stephanie Duran
Grant Alexander
505 204 2491
505 455 8880
lic # 38495
lic # 49808
SDuran@SantaFeRealEstate.com
GAlexander@SantaFeRealEstate.com
Trey Jordan/Brooks White Collaboration
New Contemporary Construction in Historic District
254 Tano Road, Santa Fe, NM 87506 | $4,100,000 | mls # 201704074
A
n extraordinary offering! A grand 35-acre, gated estate within 10 minutes of Santa Fes Plaza. With 35 acres of private, view-filled horse property, this elegant doubleadobe estate is the ultimate Santa Fe treasure. With spectacular Sangre de Cristo and Jemez mountain views, this single level, impeccably maintained 5,650 sq. ft. Buzz Bainbridge main house, 995 sq. ft. guest house and barn comprise 7,131 heated square feet and 5 bedrooms/5 full and 2 half baths. The property is subdivided into 7 5-acre lots, providing the owner complete control over their environment as well as the opportunity for immediate development or the liquidity to sell parcels to other owners.
Stephanie Duran
Ben Mohr
505 204 2491
505 455 8686
lic # 38495
lic # 48440
SDuran@SantaFeRealEstate.com
Ben@SantaFeRealEstate.com
haciendasmirasol.com
H
aciendas Mirasol is the last of the best land one can find in the Southwest. Panoramic estate lots ranging from 1-7 acres, this newly subdivided 8-lot community is truly the last of the premier estate/ land opportunities within walking distance to Santa Fe’s historic Plaza. With city water/sewer, a paved, private road, minutes to the Plaza and intimate, dramatic views that inspire art and passion, Haciendas Mirasol is the ultimate opportunity to create your Santa Fe luxury dream home.
DIRECTIONS: Bishops Lodge Rd to Artist Rd/Hyde Park Rd. Haciendas Mirasol is 1/2 mile on the left. 700 Hyde Park Rd.
Stephanie Duran 505 204 2491 lic # 38495 SDuran@SantaFeRealEstate.com
A project built and presented by:
Expert ADVICE
Why get your rugs GREEN cleaned before moth season?
MICHAEL ROSE Owner
One World Rug Care and Gallery 2100 Osuna Rd. NE Albuquerque 505.821.0302 OneWorldRugCare.com
bugs are hyper attracted to soiled rugs because they taste better.
Have you been thinking about getting your rugs cleaned for the holidays? ONE WORLD RUG CARE OFFERS FREE PICKUP AND DELIVERY IN THE ENTIRE STATE Moth season is here and you should be aware. During the fall and winter, these pesky creatures come into your home because they know it’s getting cold and they need to find a new living environment. Now is the crucial time to get the dust, pollen, allergens and soils out of your rugs. Moths and infective
Look to the experts at One World Rug Care for all your area rug cleaning and restoration needs. At One World Rug Care, we are the only chemical free artisanal rug cleaners in the entire state specializing in seven different methods. All rugs are different and should be cared for with the most appropriate methods without compromising structural integrity. All rugs are cleaned one-ata-time, without cross contamination submersion or spa-like wash pits. By cleaning your rugs now, you can protect your investments during the most crucial time of year. One World Rug Care has been rated among the most elite area rug experts in the country. It has been rated #1 in the entire state of New Mexico by the Persian Rug Collectors Guide and Top 72 Trusted Experts by Carpet Collectors Guide. For free at-home advice, feel free to contact us anytime.
HOUSE & HOME
FineLifestyles
SANTA FE & ALBUQUERQUE
67
Expert ADVICE
Is A Lifestyle Base for Me?
Mary Domito and Sharon Scott Owners
Sleep & Dream Luxury Bed Store 510 West Cordova Rd. 505.988.9195 MySleepandDream.com
Split King Option
Elevation Base
IN BED, DO YOU: ✔ Read/Study ✔ Catch up on news ✔ Watch TV ✔ Use your iPad ✔ Text on your smartphone ✔ Eat breakfast in bed ✔ Have a great window view ✔ Need a massage ✔ Listen to music
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hile a lifestyle base can be an absolute necessity for someone who has a health issue that requires their head or feet to be elevated, more and more people are finding that a lifestyle base is a pleasant luxury to look forward to when retreating to their bed for the night. The following perks are some of the many reasons lifestyle bases are gaining in popularity. ZERO GRAVITY This position leaves you feeling weightless. The lifestyle base lifts your legs along with your head and shoulders in a cradled position that relieves pressure points. ELEVATE THE FEET If you work on your feet, this position will help the blood flow easily back to the heart, relieving sore ankles and feet. It will also take the pressure off your lumbar area and allow those back muscles to relax. CHAISE LOUNGE This is a wonderful feature for anyone who likes to watch TV in bed or just has a great view from their bedroom window. It drops the feet down to a lounge position, very similar to what some would term as a recliner position. For anyone who has fallen asleep in a recliner because you were totally relaxed, you know how comfortable this is! The better option here is that you are in bed being totally supported by your mattress and lifestyle base. MASSAGE The gentle vibrations emanating from the base will leave you very relaxed, allowing you to fall asleep faster. For those who want a deeper massage, you can turn up the intensity. Some
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Chaise Lounge/Lumbar Support
"Gift of Sound"
lifestyle bases feature a wave option, which gives you a rolling type of massage vibration. ELEVATION This unique feature allows the mattress to be flat and yet elevated. Sounds like a conundrum, but it really is a plus for anyone with acid-reflux or a similar health issue. ANTI-SNORE Have you ever been kept awake or awakened by someone who snores? Often, all that is needed is a little bit of head and shoulders elevation. This change of position sometimes greatly reduces or eliminates snoring.
UNDER-BED LIGHTING Why? If this seems just a bit over the top, consider that you can easily get out of bed and back in without having to turn on the light on your nightstand, allowing your partner to rest undisturbed by a bright light. THERE’S AN APP FOR THAT… For the tech savvy, some bases have the option of downloading an app that will open another world of options, such as programing the bed to wake you up in the morning with a massage in your favorite position, or to go back flat at a certain time after you’ve fallen asleep. The options are limitless, and it can all be done from your smartphone or tablet.
LUMBAR SUPPORT Our lower backs can hold stress and therefore be quite painful if not supported properly. Just as we may have a customizable lumbar adjustment lever in our automobiles or other chairs in our homes, some lifestyle bases also have this feature to help the mattress support this critical area of our bodies.
Many mattresses are lifestyle base friendly. Twin, twin x-long, full or queen mean you and your partner must agree on one position or massage intensity, but a king-sized bed has the option of also being a split king where each side can select their own personally preferred features.
SPEAKERS Yes, your bed can actually sing you to bed or lull you to sleep with your favorite tunes! This option is available for any device that is Bluetooth compatible.
Lifestyle bases are designed to fit into most standard sized beds. If you are wondering if a lifestyle base is for you, please visit our store for a complete demonstration of the features and benefits you too could soon be enjoying in your bedroom!
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A NEW KIND OF ROOFING COMPANY
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ixing a roof is a hassle; from comparing companies to scheduling construction, no one particularly looks forward to needing a new roof. However, there’s a new roofing company that is changing the industry, both in terms of an exceptional product and extraordinary customer service. Based out of Santa Fe but also serving Albuquerque and Los Alamos, Fix My Roof offers superior materials, workmanship and warranty.
Father James Sanchez, Abiqui, NM “I highly recommend Fix My Roof.”
Fix My Roof is a flat roof specialty company owned by John Grisak and Justin Kibbe. The idea for the company came out of Grisak’s experience as a large loss residential and commercial insurance adjuster. He noticed there was one particular roof that insurance companies preferred: a liquid applied silicone membrane. Grisak moved back to his native New Mexico and set up shop seven years ago, applying the technology to the flat Pueblo-style roofs that are especially prevalent in Santa Fe. Kibbe, who has a background in marketing analysis, got on board when he saw the strength of the technology and the fact that, at the time, it was not being offered elsewhere in the state. The first silicone roof was presented at New York City’s World Fair in the 1960s. The white color of the silicone reflects the sun instead of absorbing it, which means buildings are easier to cool. A second advantage is that it is 100 percent UV stable; the primary cause of prematurely aging roofs in New Mexico is the UV, given
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Lydia McHaley, Business Partnerships Coordinator; Steve Herrera, Facilities Manager; Mary Martin, Executive Director, Santa Fe Animal Shelter “Fix My Roof has stopped all our leaks, and the building stays cooler.”
Phil & Kristi D., Corrales, NM “We couldn’t be happier!”
Krysia N., Cochiti, NM “The entire Fix My Roof team was friendly, reliable and professional.”
SO MANY OF OUR CUSTOMERS WERE FRUSTRATED WITH ONGOING LEAKS. IT’S SO HEARTWARMING TO GIVE THESE CUSTOMERS A SOLUTION THAT MAKES THEM FEEL GOOD ABOUT THEIR HOME AGAIN.
our high elevation and number of sunny days. A third advantage is, because the silicone is applied as a liquid, it doesn’t have any seams; New Mexico is known for its warm days and cool nights, and this regular rising and falling of temperature causes buildings to expand and contract, eventually tearing roof seams apart. Finally, the silicone application is a roof restoration rather than a tear-off, which saves customers money. Fix My Roof couples its remarkable product with incomparable service. In fact, their warranty covers 10 years’ worth of both materials and labor, as well as a free yearly inspection at no additional cost. The company culture is based on empowering employees by paying well above minimum wage (rare in the roofing industry), and this translates to superior customer service.
was leaking like a sieve until Fix My Roof restored it using their 21st century solution. The silicone membrane keeps my house so cool that I haven’t turned on the AC once!” says customer Cindy Martinez. Gretchen M. echoes: “Fix My Roof’s warranty and personal follow-up are amazing. Their technology is the leading edge of roofing innovation!” Kibbe enjoys being able to provide customers with a roofing solution so they can love their home once more. “So many of our customers were frustrated with ongoing leaks. It’s so heartwarming to give these customers a solution that makes them feel good about their home again.”
The company has been heartily endorsed by the Santa Fe Business Incubator, as well as by several customers. “My flat roof
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Fix My Roof Santa Fe: 505.919.8011 Albuquerque: 505.225.1249 FixMyRoof.com
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Expert ADVICE
Selecting the Best Plumbing/Heating/ Cooling Company for You
Rich Duran Owner
Rich Duran Plumbing & Heating, Inc. 17 Bisbee Court, Suite E Santa Fe 505.992.0306 Rich@RichDuranPlumbing.com
BEFORE
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etting your home’s heating unit ready for winter starts with an evaluation of your boiler or furnace. A furnace, of course, blows hot air into the home, while the boiler radiates heat using hot water. In a radiant heat or baseboard system, a service technician inspects the boiler, pumps, valves and controls. For a furnace, the most important thing to check is the filter, as well as the fan operation. Flue gasses or carbon monoxide should also be checked annually. In addition, the technician will check for leaks and any signs of wear and tear. An indication of a faulty system is simply lack of heat. If a furnace has a plugged filter, you’ll notice the airflow isn’t as efficient, perhaps even lukewarm. Similarly, a boiler in which water doesn’t flow properly won’t heat correctly. Whether heating with air or water, flow is crucial. If the unit isn’t safe or if it will cost more to maintain than the value of the unit itself, it might be time to replace your boiler or furnace. In general, any unit from the 1990s should be replaced. When a
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boiler or furnace is 15 to 20 years old, it may be time to think about replacing it with a higher efficiency unit. If you don’t feel ready to replace your entire heating system quite yet, the pumps, valves and dampers are all replaceable in a boiler system. Those items have motors that commonly go out. The actual boiler just needs to be assessed to make sure it’s burning correctly. For instance, is it clean? Many people have a boiler or furnace that slowly becomes covered with pet fur or dust. The newest boilers and furnaces on the market are much more efficient than those commonly found in homes. The federal government used to require units be at least 80 percent efficient. Now, units are required by law to be 90 to 95 percent efficient. Older and less efficient heating systems are thus being phased out. And it’s worth mentioning that the cost of replacing a heating unit eventually pays for itself in the form of lower utility bills. Keep in mind that servicing a boiler or furnace is similar to taking your car into the garage; just because the technician
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AFTER doesn’t see an issue doesn’t mean there won’t be one that develops a few weeks or months later. It’s difficult to guarantee a system won’t go out as the winter season goes on. We recommend annual service, and it’s imperative to get that servicing taken care of before the middle of winter. We pride ourselves on excellent customer service; whatever our client needs, we take care of it as efficiently as possible. We recognize our clients just want to be comfortable, which is why we strive to work quickly. We also always follow up with our clients to confirm if their heating units are continuing to work as effectively as possible, ensuring comfort and warmth throughout winter.
Expert ADVICE
Should You Hire a Professional Investment Property Manager?
GERMAINE GOMEZ Owner
Fridays Off in Santa Fe 1219 Luisa St., Ste. 3B, Santa Fe 505.946.8524 FridaysOffInSantaFe.com Fridaysoffinsantafe@outlook.com
T
he vacation rental marketplace is growing in popularity every year and the industry becomes more competitive each month. Search results have become a nightmare. Saturated with an overload of competing properties, your home can easily become lost in all the noise. Technology and customer tastes/expectations/demands are in constant flux, and one must keep up with the myriad of changes. How can you enhance and maintain your investment? We recommend you hire Fridays Off in Santa Fe to professionally manage and enhance the value of your investment property. One of the biggest shifts we’re seeing is the growing demand for professionally managed properties. Research by vacation rental marketing firms shows that 41 percent of travelers prefer to book with professional managers. Why? Because we can track and stay on the cutting edge of customer demands, tastes and expectations. If your competition has pros working fulltime on their behalf and you don’t, you’re at a severe disadvantage. Professional
managers offer proven marketing plans, better amenities such as flat screen TVs, wireless technology, design/décor, attention to safety and security, and a much higher level of efficiency and customer service. Approximately 50 percent (and growing) of travelers will move on if your home does not fit their high standards. From the first moment a guest selects your home to the day they check out, the level of professionalism demonstrated will be a critical factor in favorable reviews, returning guests and increased bookings. Establishing yourself as a professional is the new foundation plan required for a successful vacation rental business. Great property managers build value, generating repeat guests, referrals and five-star reviews. All of this makes closing new business much easier, more frequent and more profitable for your investment. Personal service and high experience matter to guests. One of the biggest differences between our industry and the hotel industry is the personal nature of our business. Travelers expect a higher level of personal interaction and customer service. We understand that your property is your product, but the
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product won’t sell itself and guests will never find your product without a professional marketing plan. However, all marketing is useless without the basics of guest accommodations: •
Cleanliness and appearance
•
Updated interior décor and furniture
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Updated electronics/technology
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Quality and stylish linens
•
Fully stocked kitchens & baths
This is just a short list of the hundreds of details required to be successful. I will emphasize again: This business is brutally competitive, and your home must be on point every time. But if your home is in obvious need of an upgrade, you will have a difficult time attracting bookings. Your guests should want to stay at your home, not just call you because all others in the area are booked. At FOSF we are the local expert specializing in full service property management for short and longterm rentals. We consult and work closely with homeowners to manage all the intricate details and amenities necessary to generating cash flow and adding value to your investment. And we have a demonstrated and proven track record of success.
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FL
PETS
Therapeutic Empowerment By Emmaly Wiederholt
Horses have long been regarded as quiet, powerful creatures that create a sense of calm; thus, it isn’t a stretch to imagine the therapeutic effects of being around a horse. Equine-assisted therapy is practiced worldwide, and addresses a wide swath of conditions from traumatic injuries to illness. Here in the Land of Enchantment is Listening Horse Therapeutic Riding, a nonprofit devoted to offering therapeutic sessions with horses to veterans and active military personnel, as well as to the larger community of central and northern New Mexico.
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PETS
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istening Horse began in 2010 when three Vietnamera veterans who had benefited from equine-assisted therapy got together and started a non-profit to help other veterans. One of the founders and the current executive director, Gus Jolley, lent his personal horse to the budding organization, and from there it slowly grew. “I saw what horses had done for me and the other two gentlemen. We wanted to pass that on. I’ve been involved in therapy riding since 2003. It’s about giving back. There’s a comradery between veterans; we help each other,” says Jolley. When it became apparent there was a larger community demand for its services, Listening Horse made its programs available to anyone facing challenges, including those with post-traumatic stress disorder, autism, Down syndrome, brain injury, Alzheimer’s, substance abuse, grief, spinal cord injuries and cancer. Today, there are eight horses “working” for the non-profit. Would-be participants call or email to sign up for one of three equine-assisted therapy sessions a year. Taking place every spring, summer and fall, the therapy is structured into 90-minute one-on-one sessions once a week for eight weeks. In this way, the program functions similarly to weekly talk therapy sessions, but with a gentle horse instead. The nonprofit is a member center of PATH (Professional Association of Therapeutic Horsemanship International) which sets guidelines to protect the best interests of the horses, volunteers and participants. Jolley, for instance, is a certified instructor through PATH. “There’s communication without verbal exchange between the person and the horse, in present time, which the horse is in,” describes Jolley of equineassisted therapy. “A talk situation is more about finding out what’s going on and addressing it. In horse therapy, you find the solution yourself.” Equine-assisted therapy dates back to the 1800s. Horses are prey animals in a natural environment, which gives them deep awareness and an acute sense of the present. The therapy centers on building a bond between horse and rider, which allows the rider to build confidence and self-esteem, as well as a sense of calm, rather than remaining stuck in fear, pain, anxiety, anger or other difficult emotions.
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“The horse allows a person to not worry about anything in the past or future, but to focus on the present,” explains volunteer Kathy Laird, a retired counselor from Santa Fe Community College. “A horse is so sensitive to its environment, it picks up on the emotions of people around it. The horse has a calming effect. I’ve seen a participant grooming a horse, and suddenly bury her head in its side, crying. Something was going on between the horse and the woman.” Volunteer and administrator Laurie Seton expands: “Just walking the horse, a 1,200-lb. animal, is empowering. It’s a positive thought that someone in pain can reflect on.” Laird says one of the benefits of the program is the endless bond that can develop between a horse and participant. As a counselor, she describes the necessary objectivity that therapists must maintain between themselves and their patients. But, with a horse, there’s no limit to the development of the relationship. Seton adds: “The quiet communication with a horse can be equally impactful as seeing a therapist, and is often more comfortable for many folks.” Seton and Laird have seen a number of kids come through the program who have autism or Down syndrome, and describe seeing them blossom and become more verbal, as well as physically confident. Additionally, giving the horse discipline and routine is critical for the horse’s wellbeing, but also gives the participant the opportunity to “take the reins” so to speak. It’s about developing an aspect of control in a life that might often feel out of control and overwhelming. Listening Horse’s sessions are free to all participants, so the nonprofit is always looking for donations and volunteers to help keep its many community programs running. To learn more about how to get involved, visit www.ListeningHorse.org.
SPORTS, REC & TRAVEL
Wildlife Abounds at the Bosque Story and photos by Debbie Stone
E
ach winter, people flock to Bosque del Apache National Wildlife Refuge to see thousands of snow geese and Sandhill cranes take off en masse at sunrise. It’s a spectacular and memorable sight, but only one of many that visitors can experience at this special place. Located between the Chupadera Mountains to the west and the San Pascual Mountains to the east, the Bosque is part of a national system of lands and waters dedicated to wildlife protection. The 57,331acre refuge an hour and a half south of Albuquerque provides necessary habitats for year-round and migratory waterfowl that use the location as a critical stopover. Prior to being established in 1939, the Bosque was an at-risk area. The stretch of Rio Grande River within it had been reduced to a shallow stream, causing the floodplain marshes to dry up. Consequently, plants started to disappear, as did the wildlife that were dependent on it as food supply. People grew concerned about the situation, as they felt strongly that the stunning wildlife and habitats along the river were worth preserving. The Civilian Conservation Corps stepped in and began working to restore the floodplains, which eventually led President Franklin Roosevelt to officially establish the Bosque del Apache as a National Wildlife Refuge in 1939. Visitors to the refuge have many opportunities to enjoy a variety of wildlife-related activities, including wildlife observation, photography, fishing and hiking along scenic trails. A series of special events, workshops, lectures and free guided tours are also offered throughout the year.
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MAKERSPACES Communities of Creatives By Emmaly Wiederholt
There’s a new fad spreading across the globe: making. “What’s making?” you ask. Tinkering; playing; experimenting; creating. The culture of making dictates “figuring things out” in real time and, most importantly, in real community. Makerspaces, where makers meet, are popping up in cities everywhere, and are basically open spaces equipped with a variety of tools that allow makers to apply their knowledge, learn from others, and make something new. Some makers come with expertise in electronics or woodworking, while others come with a fun idea. 78
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lbuquerque’s Quelab is New Mexico’s first and largest makerspace, though several more have popped up around the state. Opened in 2010, Quelab now boasts more than 100 members.
Menning, Adric’s father, who is also a member. If a member is particularly interested in an area of expertise, they might become an officer over that aspect of the lab. Gonner, for instance, has invested much time and energy into outfitting the woodshop.
“Some people develop what I call maker paralysis,” says Adric Menning, one of Quelab’s founders. “They come in, see the tools, and feel like they don’t have a cool enough idea to use it all. But making is a muscle; the more you do it, the better you get. That’s why a place like Quelab is great because, if you have a problem, you can get 50 different solutions.”
Gonner has been a maker all his life with extensive experience in custom woodworking, so Adric naturally fell into making as well. After visiting NYC Resistor – Brooklyn’s maker space – he felt that Albuquerque needed something similar. “When we started, our goal was to have better than your average garage’s collection of tools,” tells Adric. “The founding members pooled together our resources. We were really part of the second wave of makerspaces to spring up.” Similar spaces have since been initiated around the state, including MAKE Santa Fe, The ToolBox in Taos, Los Alamos Makers, M-LAB in Socorro, and FUSE Makerspace through CNM in Albuquerque.
Quelab operates like a gym in that people pay monthly memberships, which grant them 24/7 access to the building. The 10,000 sq. ft. area includes a laser cutter, 3D printers, a fiber arts room complete with sewing machines and sergers, a large-scale printer, a vinyl cutter, soldering irons, lathes, milling machines, welding equipment, a drill press, an electronics room, a small parts and tools room, a dark room with several cameras, a kitchen, a classroom, a library, plus an excess of storage space filled with assorted machinery and spare parts. The non-profit operates via an all-volunteer workforce. “Every tool and shelf has been donated, found, refabed or reused,” says Gonner
Maker Faire, an annual event in the Bay Area and New York, is a way for makers to show off their work to a larger public. Albuquerque has an annual Mini Maker Faire, one of over 190 independently-produced Mini Maker Faires, plus over 30 largerscale Maker Faires, to be produced around the globe. Fueled by the launch of MAKE Magazine in 2005, maker faires and spaces have sprung up everywhere.
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Quelab’s members span the gamut from college students to retirees, all looking for a place to work on hobbies and develop ideas. The lab is proud to include several female members, including the president and head of the board. “The value of this place isn’t only that there are a lot of tools, but that there is a lot of expertise,” reflects Adric. A knowledge tree by subject directs new members where to turn if a question comes up. Additionally, Quelab hosts open houses on Tuesdays and Sundays from 7 to 10 p.m., when folks can come in and use a limited number of tools. Many projects – both amateur and entrepreneurial – have come out of Quelab. Gonner himself built a huge solar-powered balloon and tracked it as it flew over the Manzano Mountains. A handful of startups have found their footing in Quelab’s incubator: Enclosures is a company that builds armored enclosures for ipads to use in museum environments; 505 Access creates assistive technology to enable disability access; and Battle Blades is a company that builds light swords for play combat. “When people hear about Quelab, they sometimes say, ‘I’ve already got a ton of tools,” says Adric. “But all the tools in the world won’t help you when you’re stuck. The social aspect is great. Every time I come in, I learn something new. It’s a community center for creatives.” To learn more, visit Quelab.net.
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Expert ADVICE
Slow Speed Could Kill Your Website
THE MOST COMMON CULPRITS FOR POOR SPEED ARE UNCOMPRESSED IMAGES, SCRIPTS, AND CSS FILES.
Photo by Daniel Quat
Kate Rollins Kate Rollins Web Design, LLC (website design, SEO & SMM) 888.242.1773 www.KateWebDesign.com
GOOGLE SEARCH ALGORITHM USES SPEED OF LOADING IN THE RANKING OF WEBSITES.
Y
ou have invested in building a professional website for your business, its design is beautifully crafted with good navigation and calls for action, and you are heavily promoting it on your social media platforms. You may even be running GoogleAds to expand your reach and get new clientele. You feel that you have done what it takes to jump ahead of your competition.
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Are new clients contacting you as you had hoped? If your website is not showing any signs of serving its purpose as your powerful marketing tool, you may have overlooked a very important factor: the loading speed of your website. Slow loading websites are no one’s favorite. Studies show that if a website has not fully loaded in three seconds, visitors move on. In our fast-paced society, people have no tolerance for slowness and no time to wait. Google is in agreement and will mercilessly punish your website for being slow to load, because that kills its user friendliness— the new norm for search engine marketing success. (For more tips on how to win with Google, please refer to my Expert Advice in the Fall 2017 issue, How to Get Google on Your Side.) Google search algorithm uses speed of loading in the ranking of websites. I recently stumbled upon the website of a local, high-end downtown restaurant while looking for their menu, and almost did not wait the full 10 to 12 seconds it took for their home page to load. The only reason I waited that long is because it’s what I do: I find the sources of problems on websites. My first guess of the culprit for this restaurant’s slow-load problem proved correct, as I have seen it all too often. Image optimization is not every
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web designer’s forte, and the lack of it places your website in the hazardous position of failing the test of speed. The most common culprits for poor speed are uncompressed images, scripts, and CSS files. If you have taken over the brave task of self-managing and updating your business website, be sure to learn how to optimize all images you upload, especially the ones you post on your home page. If you don’t have the right tools and know-how, it’s well worth it to hire a website professional for image and script optimization. Doing it wrong may result in: • poor ranking in search • impatient visitors who don't wait for your website to load and move on to your competition • high bounce rate (the percentage of people who leave your website without clicking on any of your links to see or learn more) • frustrated customers who cannot access information they hoped to find on your website To speed test your website, visit the following link for a quick test result (be warned: you may have to wait a few seconds)—www. gtmetrix.com. If your site takes more than four seconds to load, it's time to evaluate it and make adjustments.
Protect Your Roof Before It Fails.
Whether your roof is currently leaking or you’d like to restore your roof before it fails, Fix My Roof is the right choice. Call today for a free roof assessment!
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SANTA FEʼS PLAYGROUND HILTON SANTA FE BUFFALO THUNDER
C o m m e rcial & Resid en tial Desig n Showroom Hours 9-5 M-F ~ 111 N. Saint Francis Drive Santa Fe ~ 505.988.3170 ~ DavidNaylorInteriors.com
Your destination for New Mexico style romance. Photo: Kate Russell