Fine Lifestyles Santa Fe & Albuquerque Volume 9 Issue 2

FineLifestyles

SANTA

FE AWNING

CREATING BEAUTY, COMFORT AND VALUE!

SANTA FE & ALBUQUERQUE

Mary Neiburg Photography

A WORD FROM THE PUBLISHER

As we transition into summer, Santa Fe and New Mexico have a great deal to offer. Besides the usual outdoor activities of fishing, hiking, camping and biking, there are a few unusual activities to take part in as well. Stargazing at Salinas Pueblo Mission National Monument is a great way to look at all the visual wonders our skies have to offer. Stars, planets, constellations and galaxies are easily seen at night, due to the relatively little interference from artificial light. The International Dark Sky Association designated the monument a “Dark Sky Park”.

Another unique outdoor activity is the Angel Fire Zipline Adventure Tour, located—yes you guessed it—in Angel Fire, New Mexico. Four tours take you on a spectacular sky ride, experiencing fresh alpine air and breathtaking views as you zip through the treetops on this unforgettable adventure.

In this issue, we continue with our very popular, “Shopping/Business Guide”. Scan the QR code to shop and learn about new products from some of your favorite retailers and businesses and discover new ones at the same time.

You will also be introduced to Latin Jazz singer/songwriter Magos Herrera. You can see and listen to her hit single Healer by scanning the QR Code in her article.

Also in this issue is a wonderful article on the wildlife in Chobe National Park in Botswana, Africa. If you love nature and wildlife and are adventurous, this would be a great place to vacation!

Featured on the cover is Santa Fe Awning This is the premier awning and solar screen company in New Mexico to take care of all patio, wind and sun issues, as well as interior windows. Please scan the QR Code in their article to learn more about them and the other services they have to offer.

As always, our goal at FineLifestyles is to inform, entertain and keep you in touch with the very best our vibrant community has to offer. We hope you enjoy this issue and will take time to explore some of the products and services featured in these pages.

Mike Puzey

Fine Lifestyles

SUMMER 2023

Volume 9 Issue 2

DESIGN

DeAnne Wood

FRONT COVER PHOTOGRAPHY

Herschel Mair

PHOTOGRAPHY

Laura Cockfield

Liz Lopez

Herschel Mair

Douglas Merriam

Mary Neiburg

Debbie Stone

CONTRIBUTING WRITERS

Wolf Schneider

Anya Sebastian

Debbie Stone

Henry Valdez

PUBLISHER & SALES

Mike Puzey

mikep@finelifestylessw.com

910.508.3694

SUBSCRIPTIONS

Subscribe at www.finelifestylessw.com or email mikep@finelifestylessw.com

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 2023 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:

2895 Pueblo Bonito, Santa Fe, NM 87507

Onyx with Travertine wall lamp, Mesquite console, leather swivel chairs, wood turned bowls, deer suede ottoman. Buffalo skull with adornment

Mesquite Dining table with Turquoise, Mesquite dining chairs, wood turned bowl, Onyx lamps

Red leather swivel chairs, Mesquite coffee table with copper, small round copper end table, wood turned bowls

Leather chaises with tooling Mesquite table Tan leather chaise, Turquoise leather sofa, Acacia coffee table, Oriental rugs

LUST AND FOND BECK & BULOW

A new boutique for those who relish the singular charm of vintage designer apparel. We specialize in sourcing and purchasing exceptional pieces. You are cordially invited to grace our store and peruse through our meticulously curated collection.

Beck & Bulow Quality Meats is a specialty meat shop that offers a wide range of premium meats, including bison, elk, wild caught seafood, Wagyu beef and more.

Our team sources meat and seafood from trusted ranchers and fishermen who follow sustainable and humane practices, ensuring the highest quality products for our customers.

Beck & Bulow

505.428.6827

1934 Cerrillos Rd. Santa Fe

SLEEP & DREAM LUXURY BED STORE

Lust and Fond

303.489.1700

339 West Manhattan Ave. Santa Fe

LOVE FOR LIFE DISPENSARY

Cannabis and clone seeds have arrived!

We offer the best in medical and recreational cannabis products. Large selection of top quality brands, plus specialty items. Convenient location next to Meow Wolf, with easy parking. Come on by!

Sleep & Dream features an excellent variety of luxury brands, including Hästens, Vispring, Aireloom, and Posh + Lavish. And no sleep experience would be complete without a full line of luxury accessories. So check out what we have to offer, then come by the store and find out why Sleep & Dream can get you on the path to a great night’s sleep.

Sleep & Dream Luxury Bed Store

505.988.9195

510 W Cordova Rd, Santa Fe

Love for Life Dispensary

505.231.7775

1330 Rufina Circle, Santa Fe

Designing and creating locally made, one-of-a-kind silver and gold jewelry for 50 years. Our signature, custom-made collections appeal to both men and women, and even include pets! Stop by our Santa Fe gallery to check out our full selection. Custom designs also welcome.

LewAllen & LewAllen Jewelry

505.983.2657

105 E Palace Ave. Santa Fe

THE COLLECTIVE

exceptional!

PANDORA’S

The Collective

505.278.6705

530 S Guadalupe St. Santa Fe

Luxury Bedding and bedroom accessories available in the finest fabrics and carefully crafted from New Mexican artists as well as Artisans from around the world. Exotic creations combined with stunning colors are what defines our products!

Pandora’s 505.982.3298

173 Paseo de Peralta DeVargas Center, Santa Fe

VIDA DENTAL STUDIO

Experience dentistry the way you’ve always deserved to be treated. Our team will accommodate all your dental concerns, provide personalized treatment plans and give you the smile you’ve always wanted.

Vida Dental Studio

505.587.1965

2 Calle Medico, Suite #3 Santa Fe

Uniquely Santa Fe but highly exotic and unexpectedly unusual. So very far from the typical sterile furniture shopping experience. Truly

Recognized as one of the top hair salons in Albuquerque, Rococo Hair Co. is now bringing its celebrated expertise to Santa Fe. Our talented stylists look forward to meeting you in our beautiful, new location.

Rococo Hair Co

505.954.1480

651 Cerrillos Rd. Santa Fe

ARREDIAMO

Arrediamo Santa Fe specializes in importing only the finest, authentic, hand-knotted, vegetable dyed, handspun wool or silk rugs for your home or office.

We are proud to offer the Southwest’s largest collection of handmade contemporary, southwest, traditional and antique Persian, Turkish, Afghani, Tribal, and Tibetan rugs.

Arrediamo Santa Fe

505.820.2231

202 Galisteo St, Santa Fe

Large Selection of quality consignments. We offer Estate Sale Service and Appraisals!

Stephen’s A Consignment Gallery

505.471.0802

2701 Cerrillos Rd, Santa Fe

WORLD CLASS WATCHES

From vintage heirlooms to modern designs, we offer meticulous inspection and repairs as well as custom creations that capture the essence of Santa Fe’s rich culture and style.

Discover the timeless elegance of our work, crafted with the highest quality materials and techniques.

World Class Watches

505.992.0200

#9 222 E Marcy St. Santa Fe

Fairy Hair (hair tinsel) is sparkly silken strands, paired with a single hair without glue or heat, lasting weeks or months!

Fairy Kati can come to your private party or you can book an appointment at one of her events by scanning, emailing or calling.

New Mexico Fairy Hair 505.886.1427 newmexicofairyhair@gmail.com

COWBOYS AND INDIANS

Cowboys and Indians is a veritable shoppers paradise, is located in the heart of Santa Fe’s historic plaza. The Southwest’s Premier Custom furniture maker!

Terrell Powell’s whimsical artwork is guaranteed to brighten your day.

A delightful combination of primitive and contemporary, his colorful paintings, sculptures and mixed media creations are a perfect fit for home, corporate and public settings. Commissions accepted. Call to make an appointment to come by!

Terrell Powell, Artist 512.826.1399

118 Camino Los Abuelos, Santa Fe

Stag Tobacconist, Santa Fe’s oldest and largest Cigar Shop, has been serving the Santa Fe and Northern New Mexico community for over 45 years. Come enjoy our remodeled Cigar Lounge.

Cowboys and Indians

505.982.8280

72 E San Francisco St. Santa Fe

1845 Cerrillos Rd., Santa Fe

Our product is of the highest quality and ships direct from Italy. Oils, vinegars, gourmet sausages, cheeses, breads and crackers, charcuterie, moles, desserts and sweets.

We offer a selection of our home-made breads, sauces, soups, panini, lasagna, gelatos and sorbettos as well as meats, cheeses, pastas and specialty items.

The Deli at Sassella

505.954.1658

216 McKenzie St., Santa Fe

FINE ART FRAMERS

Serving Santa Fe’s museums, galleries, artists, & collectors since 1996. Dedicated to the highest level of conservation framing & expert design.

HONEYMOON BREWERY

Honeymoon Brewery’s hard kombucha is unlike anything you’ve ever tasted before. This delicious, top quality beverage, created by a process unique to us, combines traditional and nontraditional brewing styles, using kombucha as the foundation for our beer. Available at Whole Foods and Sprout’s. Check our website for more locations and purchasing options.

Honeymoon Brewery

505.303.3139

INDIGO BABY

Here at Indigo Baby we provide high-quality, hand-crafted goodies for kids of all ages, from New Mexico and around the globe. Come in and experience the magic.

Fine Art Framers

505.982.4397

1415 W Alameda St., Santa Fe

Indigo Baby

505.954.4000

185 Paseo De Peralta Devargas Center, Santa Fe

Owner, Tiffany Link

RO•CO•CO Hair Co .

A Santa Fe Native Comes Home

By Anya Sebastian • Photos by Laura Cockfield

Tiffany Link started working with hair, long before it became her career. Growing up in Santa Fe with a mother who had a home day-care center, she would do the little girls’ hair before they left at the end of the day. She also experimented with her own hair, in such a way that people took notice, and her reputation as a talented stylist grew rapidly. By the time she was in high school, she was doing hair for proms and even for weddings as well.

The decision to then become a professional hairstylist was one that took itself, and she went on to study cosmetology at the Urban Academy in Albuquerque (later rebranded as the Paul Mitchell School.) “The program covered hair, skin and nails, but hair was always my main focus,” she says.

Tiffany then spent time working in some of the best salons in Albuquerque, starting out as an assistant and finally becoming a stylist, soon attracting her own clientele. “I became so busy that I had more work than I could handle,” she recalls, “It reached a point where I wanted to teach others, so they could handle the overflow.”

Her client base continued to grow, until she felt confident about opening her own salon. Rococo Hair Co was launched in Albuquerque in 2019, which turned out to be unfortunate timing, because the pandemic hit six months later, causing her to close for a while. Customers remained loyal, however, and they were glad to come back when the salon re-opened in late 2020. Business then really took off, continuing to grow and flourish and, as word spread, people from Santa Fe started to show up as well.

“I was constantly being asked to think about opening a place in Santa Fe,” she says, “and since that’s where I was born and raised, and it’s a place I love, I really wanted to make a contribution and to be part of that culture.”

Tiffany’s wish came true in January this year, when Rococo opened on Cerrillos Road, in Santa Fe, about a block from Whole Foods Market. The interior is fresh, contemporary and elegant, with comfortable chairs and ergonomic shampoo bowls. It is also the only place in town that has been approved to offer Oribe, a line of high end, luxury hair products based in New York. “Everything is gluten-free, crueltyfree and color-safe,” explains Tiffany, “with whole, natural ingredients, and they are the only products we use for our clients.”

Rococo stylists keep up-to-date and on trend with continuing education, so that they can offer a variety of services for all walks of life. Stylists are licensed cosmetologists and prices vary according to their specialization and years of experience. The salon is open every day except Sunday and appointments can be made either by calling 505.954.1480, or online at rococohairco.com. Scanning the QR code in the business guide on page…will take you right there.

Rococo Hair Co

651 Cerrillos Road

Santa Fe 505.954.1480

rococohairco.com

JAMES K ALLAS JEWELERS Making Dreams Come True

JAMES KALLAS MADE HIS FIRST PIECE OF JEWELRY and sold it to a local store in Ohio when he was just 12 years old. It has been his passion ever since, and his profession for his whole adult life. His first store was in Florida, but after taking a trip to Santa Fe to visit a relative, Kallas decided to relocate. “I saw a need for jewelry repair at that time and decided to take advantage of the opportunity,” he says. “I admit that the climate also played a part in my decision to move here.”

James Kallas Jewelers has been a fixture in Santa Fe since 1991 and is now a one-stop shop for just about everything jewelry related. If you want something designed, or made according to a design of your own, you’ve come to the right place. Other services include appraisals, resizing, maintenance, gemstone cutting, full service repairs. casting, computer-aided design...

Kallas has even studied ancient Greek and Japanese techniques, adapting them to create his own pieces, but with a modern flair. “There’s really nothing I can’t do,” he says simply.

The store showcases a wide, eclectic selection of jewelry for both men and women, covering a range of prices, from silver to high carat gold and platinum. Having been in the business for so many years, Kallas now has connections all over the world, making it possible for him to source whatever is required to meet a client’s needs. “If you have a dream,” he says, “we can create it for you.”

VIDA DENTAL STUDIO Does not Conform to the Norm

By Anya Sebastian

“This dental office was not like other dental offices. The welcoming and friendly staff were amazing and the dentists were nothing like any of the previous dentists I have been to.”

That 5-star review—just one of many - captures the essence of what makes Vida Dental Studio the most celebrated dental office in Santa Fe. There are patients who declare that, for the first time, they actually look forward to going to the dentist. One goes even further, saying,“My wife was terrified of the dentist. Dr. Giron has made her feel at home and now she comes here with a smile on her face.”

For Dr. Devin Giron, who opened his Santa Fe practice about 6 years ago, it is all about building relationships. As he points out, “This is a relationship-based business and we want to get to know our patients as people.” Just how different that is from most people’s experience, is something that many reviews pay special attention to. “The entire experience is one that makes you feel valued as a human and as a consumer, not just another number,” is a typical comment, as is this one, “It felt like home right away. It’s almost like family and the team they have here...the girls are wonderful, all of them.”

Something else that sets Vida apart from other dental offices, is that Dr. Giron and his partner, Dr. Galen Detrik, set aside time for emergencies, offering same day appointments if possible, and even

coming in early, or staying late if necessary. “If someone is dealing with a dental emergency, or has a really bad toothache, those are things that need to be taken care of as soon as possible,” says Dr, Detrik. That is another thing patients really appreciate, as demonstrated by this review “It took me three years to find a dentist, call and get an appointment within a week. That sold me on Vida to start with.”

As for their expertise and the quality of their work, that, too, gets 5-star reviews, like this one, referring to Dr. Giron: “He has a really good grasp of the new technology and his dentistry is exceptional. It’s faster, easier and always turns out exceptionally well.”

The world of dentistry is rapidly changing and evolving and both Dr. Giron and Dr. Detrik make a point of keeping up-to-date with the latest developments, frequently going out of state to pursue further education. Vida also invests in their employees, who really do work together as a team. “I want people who are eager to advance and who want to keep learning,” explains Dr. Giron. “I want to encourage everyone here to be the very best they can be.”

The office is now exploring the possibility of making holistic alternatives available to patients, along with regular treatments, “We think it’s important to let our patients know what options are available out there, so they can choose the one that feels right for them.” says Dr. Giron, “and holistic solutions would definitely be of interest to many of them.” That means giving people individual attention, spending time with them, listening to their concerns, making them feel seen, heard and cared for, all things that are an integral part of how Vida Dental Studio operates. The following, succinct review sums it up perfectly: “A good dentist is hard to find. I’m really thrilled I found this one!”

IN-HOUSE CROWN MACHINE

CROWN MACHINE IN ACTION

CROWN PREPARATION

THE WAY OF THE BEAR

By Wolf Schneider

When Navajo Tribal Police officers Jim Chee and Bernadette Manuelito drive out to the edge of the Navajo Nation in southeastern Utah, he’s there for a sweat lodge ceremony and meeting with a philanthropist, while she’s there for the mini vacation and to consider her future, having been passed over for a detective position. In this remote region held sacred by many, they’re both looking forward to the solace of spacious vistas with buttes, cliffs, and red sandstone. What they don’t expect? For Bernie to be hunted down and shot at by men in a pickup truck when she’s just out hiking among petroglyphs in the Valley of the Gods. What’s more, the next morning a paleontologist outdoorsman who was staying at their same motel in Bluff is found dead on a deserted country road.

So begins The Way of the Bear by Santa Fe novelist Anne Hillerman, who has become a New York Times bestselling author by continuing the Navajoland mystery series revolving around characters created by her dad, Tony Hillerman. She knows the territory and the culture. Like how when Bernie is out there alone among the red stone monoliths and an owl glides by, Bernie says a prayer of protection since owls are considered omens of death. It causes Bernie to reflect how, “For her and Chee, her husband, the days had been filled with strong winds of change, a tornado of turmoil on the job and off. She had come to this special place, the Valley of the Gods, in the shadow of the sacred Bears Ears Buttes, in search of a few hours of winter peace.”

ENCOUNTERING UNEXPECTED DANGER NEAR THE FOUR CORNERS AREA BOOK REVIEW

In short order, witchcraft, petroglyph defacement, potsherds, rough mesa country, intermittent cell service, a second death, and a blizzard unnerve Bernie and Chee, as their respite turns into a danger zone.

Author Anne Hillerman

Photo by Roberto Rosales

TRANSFORMATIVE STORYTELLING AND HEALING WITH MUSIC:

A conversation with jazz singer Magos Herrera’s on her latest album Aire

By Henry Valdez

It’s often during the darkest of times that society needs artists the most. The pandemic felt dark as we quarantined anxiously, watching news coverage of public health orders with a rollercoaster of emotions like fear, grief, and loneliness. Mexican singer and composer Magos Herrera saw something different. She saw the light through those dark feelings.

“I think about what we all experienced the last two and a half years, all the vulnerability, the fragility, the impermanence, the uncertainty, [that] triggered in my personal experience the opposite,” says Magos. “These beautiful qualities of humanity help us navigate these hard times, such as resilience and creativity. The need to connect with others.”

Magos Herrera’s latest album, Aire, undergoes a breathtaking metamorphosis, turning the sorrow, anxieties, and isolation caused by a devastating pandemic into a radiant anthology of beautiful songs that serve as a tribute to our shared humanity through the power of uplifting music. Mago presents twelve captivating songs showcasing her latest creations, specially commissioned by Chamber Music America’s New Jazz Works initiative. The album features original pieces, along with jewels from the Great Latin American Songbook, such as “Alfonsina y el Mar” and “Gracias a la Vida.”

“Sonically, I’ve been navigating with different lineups and sounds. Coming from performing in mostly jazz settings with very strong jazz musicians, my journey of artistic identity brought me to the string sound, very much because of the sound of my voice. So when I started recording with Brooklyn Rider, I understood that even better. My voice works with strings and so in this album, working with The Knights ensemble, I really wanted to bring the two sounds together with the idea in a grand setting.”

In Aire, Magos showcases her musical talent as an immigrant musician living in New York, skillfully blending Spanish, Portuguese, and English melodies and as a jazz singer, sometimes singing with no words at all. The album is a cinematic journey with Mago’s euphonious and powerful voice guiding you through the rhythmic dance of her jazz trio augmented by a 21-piece orchestra. You may not understand every song lyric but you’ll feel the story she’s telling.

“When you tell a story, you give the audience the possibility to connect with the emotional part of it. Even if you don’t speak Spanish or Portuguese, or if you don’t listen to jazz, you’re listening to a story.”

In the darkest of times, when uncertainty and vulnerability reign, artists like Magos Herrera remind us of the transformative power of music. They illuminate the beauty we all share in the human spirit and the resilience that allows us to persevere. Aire stands as a testament to the indomitable nature of the human soul and the capacity of music to heal, uplift, and unite us in our collective journey through life.

For more information about Magos Herrera and to listen to the album, visit magosherrera.com

Scan the QR code to watch her latest video Healer.

Summer Cocktails

Now that the weather is warming up I thought we might take a look at some summer cocktails that are super simple to make and utterly delicious.

In the south of Spain people predominately drink red wine. During the summer, red wine at room temperature is too warm and difficult to drink. Hence the creation of Sangria, a mix of red wine, brandy, soda water and fruit. All a bit of a fuss but certainly worth the effort. However, the locals prefer to drink “Tinto de Verano” or “Summer Red Wine”. It’s dead simple to make and requires no fuss. Use a Crianza Tempranillo. In a tall glass filled with ice, fill half way with red wine. Top up with Sprite. Add a slice of lime (optional). And there you have it. Totally refreshing. Once you start drinking them it is hard to stop.

In Italy, people drink white wine and prosecco in the summer. But what they really drink a lot of is Aperol. Aperol is an Italian bitter apéritif with a vibrant orange color made from gentian, rhubarb and cinchona. Its name comes from apero, a French slang word for apéritif.

It is most commonly consumed in cocktail form called an Aperol Spritz which combines Aperol and Prosecco

Fill a large wine glass with plenty of ice. Add 3 parts Prosecco (75ml), and 2 parts Aperol (50ml) Add a dash of soda (25ml) and stir briefly. Garnish with an orange slice. Pure heaven and a brilliant way to begin a meal or just hang out with friends.

No summer, however, would be complete without the enjoyment of the ultimate summer drink; Gin and Tonic, or G&T

Fill a large goblet wine glass with plenty of ice. Add your favorite gin according to how strong you like your G&T (I prefer Spanish gins like The Alkkemist or GinRaw)

Top up with tonic water ( Fever Tree produces a fantastic tonic that is much lighter and less harsh than other names that have been popular. It comes in many flavors. I particularly like the Mediterranean tonic) Garnish with a slice of lemon and a sprig of mint. Divine.

Much of summer is about lazing around and doing nothing. Participating in this activity with a perfect cocktail in hand makes the indulgence all the more sweet!

Summer Grilling WITH BECK & BULOW!

We like to call this showstopper the King of Steaks. It’s a mouthwatering combination of tenderness, marbling and jaw dropping appearance that makes it one of our ultimate cuts for the grill. Bison tastes like beef, but with a clean, rich and subtly sweet flavor—absolutely no gaminess. Don’t be intimidated by the size—this steak can be prepared very simply. We recommend seasoning generously with sea salt and freshly ground black pepper on all sides (add in some herbs if you’d like), then searing the steak over direct heat. Continue to cook the steak on the cool side of the grill for about 45 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 125 degrees. Let rest for 5-10 minutes before slicing - add a pat of butter before serving if you wish. Enjoy with a glass of cabernet sauvignon and your favorite summer vegetables.

Bison tomahawk steak

Oil, melted tallow or melted butter for greasing the grill plus more for the steak (2-3 tablespoons)

Sea salt & Black pepper

Rosemary or other herbs (optional)

Butter for serving

1. Let the steak sit out at room temperature for 20 minutes prior to cooking.

IT’S THAT TIME OF YEAR TO FIRE UP THE GRILL AND ENJOY THE OUTDOOR PATIO WITH FRIENDS AND FAMILY. WE WANTED TO SHARE OUR TWO FAVORITE DISHES. STOP BY AND AND CHECK OUT OUR LARGE SELECTION OF MEATS, SEAFOOD AND POULTRY!”

Halibut is one of the most popular types of fish we carry, and due to high demand, we often fly it in for our Fresh Fish of the Week. Halibut is great for grilling because it’s firm enough not to fall apart, and has a sweet, mild oceanic flavor that’s extremely versatile and sure to please even those who think they don’t like fish. It does tend to cook very quickly, so we recommend liberally oiling the grill to prevent sticking and paying close attention for signs of doneness while the fish is cooking. Excellent with Chablis or sauvignon Blanc. We enjoy halibut paired with a light summer pasta or orzo dish with good quality olive oil and fresh tomatoes.

2. Put the steak on a plate or cutting board and rub it on all sides with melted butter, tallow or oil.

3. Season generously on all sides with sea salt and black pepper, along with any herbs, gently rubbing the seasonings into the steak.

4. Oil the grates of the grill. Light one side of the grill to mediumhigh heat and when it’s hot, sear the steak on all sides.

5. Move the steak to the cool side of the grill and cover. Continue to cook for approximately 45 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 125 degrees Fahrenheit.

6. Let the steak rest for 5-10 minutes before slicing and serving.

1lb wild caught halibut fillet

Melted butter or ghee (about 3 tablespoons)

Sea salt, 1 tsp & Black pepper, 1 tsp

Zest of 1/2 lemon

Minced garlic, 1/2 tsp

Fresh herbs such as dill, rosemary or basil (optional)

1. Let the halibut sit at room temperature for about 20 minutes prior to cooking. This will help the fish to cook more evenly.

2. Oil the grates of the grill. Preheat to medium high heat.

2. Mix together two tablespoons melted butter, sea salt, black pepper, lemon zest, minced garlic and herbs and coat the fish with the mixture thoroughly on all sides.

3. Grill the fish for 3-4 minutes on each side, or just until opaque and beginning to flake when prodded with a fork.

4. Let rest for 5-10 minutes before serving. Enjoy!

Want to join our Fresh Fish of the Week Program? Give us a call at 505-428-6827.

SAZÓN Still the Same, but Slightly Different

By Anya Sebastian

Sazón is now well established as a top dining destination for both locals and visitors alike and chef Fernando Olea’s signature dishes have become firm favorites for many. “That means they have to remain permanent fixtures on the menu, or risk provoking an outcry,” says co-owner Lawrence Becerra, “so the menu incorporates seasonal variations, but it doesn’t fundamentally change.”

Some dishes are lighter, with different herbs and garnishes, more summer-oriented, while others are delivered in new and innovative ways, like sweet, deep fried Baja shrimp, with a special sauce, presented in a martini glass.

Wines, however, can and do change. That is of special interest to wine enthusiasts, since Sazón has been recognized by the Wine Spectator for its exceptional wine list every year for the past seven years. Add to that several coveted AAA 4 diamond awards, a distinction only awarded to about 2% of national establishments.

• Photography by Herschel Mair

• Photography

Creative Direction Suzanna Becerra

Salmon with Mandarin Sauce

Duck Breast with mole Coloradito

Becerra himself has traveled the world, searching for top quality wines, for many years now, and is still excited to connect with new wineries and discover new products. He is especially delighted to have found an exceptionally good rosé from a winery in Baja, because, as he says, “ Most rosés don’t really make the grade, compared to other wines, so I was thrilled to come across this one. I’m sure it will be very popular, especially for the summer months.”

The selection of wines is of course influenced by how well they pair with dishes on the menu, so the list is extremely varied, featuring products from many different countries. As well as Mexico, they include France, Chile, Spain, Italy, and even Australia. Some wines are even exclusive to Sazón. Those who are curious to experience some of the best of the best, will have the opportunity to take part in a special wine dinner, to be held at Sazón on September 28th. It is bound to fill up fast, so mark your calendars now!

Cocktails have not been forgotten either, and a bunch of new and different seasonal variations have now been added, some featuring tequila or mezcal with different kinds of fruit content, like mango or grapefruit. They definitely make for a lighter and more refreshing drink.

As for desserts, there are no changes there; they must, and will, remain the same!

Dining at Sazón is always delightful as well as memorable. Whether it is the exceptional food, the outstanding wine selection, or the wonderful ambience that attracts you—whatever the reason, you will not be disappointed.

Sazón

221 Shelby St., SantaFe 505.983.8604

SazonSantaFe.com

Chili Mango, La Rosa, Smoked Sage El Jeffe Margaritas Cocktails by Angelina Samario

Chocolate Lava Cake

Filete with Poblano Rajas con Crema

Sigil Gin & Egg White Gimlet, Lavender Vodka Martini

Sassella

By Anya Sebastian

ENJOY THE BEST OF ITALY WITHOUT LEAVING HOME!

Summer time is here at last and Sassella’s exceptional patio is once again attracting an enthusiastic clientele. The beautiful, outdoor space was so much in demand last year that additional seating capacity has been added. And since lunch on the patio has become increasingly popular, hours have been extended, with lunch now being offered Thursday through Monday, from 11:30am to 2:00pm.

The menu does change with the seasons and summer dishes are lighter, like the sea bass on a bed of gnocchetti alla Chiavennasca. There is a spin on the classic caprese salad, and the Southern Italian dish panzanella.

Sassella’s Executive Chef and co-owner, Cristian Pontiggia, has been awarded many accolades during his distinguished culinary career, including being recognized as a Master Chef by the Italian government. He was recently one of only 20 chefs

• Photography by Herschel Mair

• Photography Creative Direction Suzanna Becerra

Burrata Caprese Panzanella Salad

from around the world chosen to represent the James Beard Society for a series of special events, called Taste America. The goal is to bring together chefs and diners to celebrate local, independent restaurants at the heart of our communities. Cristian has also invited a chef from Argentina to join him in putting together a special dinner at Sassella in November. So, watch this space and be sure to book early!

Something that the restaurant has always specialized in is gin, with tastings being offered several times a week. Space is necessarily limited for these events and reservations are required. However, diners do have the option to enjoy a different kind of gin and tonic this summer, with new gin flavors including grapefruit and pomegranate.

If you want to take a taste of Italy home with you, Sassella’s Deli has just acquired a whole range of new products, the direct result of Cristian’s visit to the Italian Food Convention in Las Vegas. They include a wide variety of artisan pastas, some of them gluten-free, and one made with squid ink, which is completely black. There are also specialty olive oils, vinegars, cheeses, delicious jams, coffees, charcuterie, gelatos, sorbets and so much more. Some products are exclusive to the Deli and there are a few items from the restaurant as well, so you can enjoy the same great dishes in the comfort of your own home.

So, keep an eye out for next year’s James Beard Award nominees for Best Chef. Sassella’s Cristian Pontiggia may well be included in the list.

Ravioli alla Cime di Rapa Bombette (Lamb Loin wrapped around Pancetta & Provolone)

NOSA RESTAURANT

REAL FOOD, JUST AS MOTHER NATURE INTENDED

By Anya Sebastian

It all started with a tomato, a freshly picked tomato from Graham Dodds’ grandparents’ farm in Scotland. He was just a youngster at the time, but he vividly remembers his grandfather asking him to first smell it and then take a bite. “I didn’t realize there were no decent tomatoes in grocery stores until I took that first bite,” he says. “What a difference! It made me realize what food was really supposed to taste like.” That childhood experience was to become the driving force behind Graham’s inspired and ingredient-driven cuisine.

He became passionate about food, devoting himself to learning the craft, first by attending the Western Culinary Institute in Oregon, then studying at the Cordon Bleu Pastry School in London and even going to Thailand to take a course in Thai cooking. Asian food is still a firm favorite of his.

Working in restaurants around Europe and in the US provided the necessary practical experience, until Graham finally found

a congenial culinary home at the Higgins restaurant in Portland. “Greg Higgins was an early pioneer in the farm-to-table movement,” he explains.” It was the late 1990’s and that was still quite a new thing. It resonated with me because it was a real celebration of the best ingredients, which was exactly what I wanted to do.”

Things fell into place when he became chef de cuisine in a restaurant in Vermont. It had a garden on site, as well as its own farmyard, and the constantly changing menu was inspired by what was in season and locally available at the time. That gave Graham the opportunity to begin developing his own distinctive personality with food.

It then inspired him to go out on his own and in 2008 he opened a restaurant in Dallas. “I had no freezer and no fryer,” he recalls. “because everything was local, sustainable and seasonal, with fresh ingredients coming in every day. So the menu changed

every day, too, because dishes were created around what came in. It became a really popular place and even won a Restaurant of the Year award.”

Throughout this time, Graham had been visiting Santa Fe on a number of occasions, staying in a friend’s casita in Ojo Caliente, and he loved it there. When he heard that the Rancho de San Juan, a secluded inn and restaurant, set in the scenic Ojo Caliente river valley, overlooking the majestic Jemez mountains, was looking for a new owner... well, long story short, the renamed NOSA RESTAURANT & INN opened in July last year.

“I wanted to get away from big cities and this place is perfect for me,” says Graham. “The landscape is stunning and there’s a real enthusiasm here for fresh, seasonal ingredients. There are farms all around, plus, of course, the Farmers’ Market in Santa Fe and I’m getting to know and build relationships with many of the farmers. I’ve even discovered new foods, like Bacchus radishes and hinona kabu turnips. I’m constantly amazed by what people can grow here.”

Since Graham prepares and cooks everything himself, NOSA is open for dinner reservations on Friday and Saturday, lunch and dinner on Sunday and he does have a beer and wine license. Well worth the 35-mile drive from Santa Fe, Graham’s unique and imaginative cuisine offers a completely different kind of dining experience, one that is at the same time unpretentious, warm and welcoming. This is clearly home for Graham for the long-term, and when he says, “I want this place to be open to everyone, not just for special occasions,” he really means it.

NOSA Restaurant & Inn

49, Rancho de San Juan Ojo Caliente 505.753.0881 nosanm.com

Alkemē

HERITAGE CUISINE REIMAGINED

The name, Alkemē, the phonetic spelling of “alchemy,” says it all. “It represents transformation,” explains ChefOwner Hue-Chan Karels. “ We chose Alkem ē as the name for our restaurant for a very specific purpose— that purpose is the recognition of the magic of transforming or combining ingredients into something new. You start out with ingredients, which then come together as food. But food, for me, is far more than just a means to satisfy hunger; it’s a powerful tool for bringing people together, for breaking down barriers, making

friends, exploring new frontiers, discovering new flavors...and that really is a form of alchemy.”

Alkemē brings to Santa Fe a chef-driven upscale restaurant with a food menu that is Asian heritage cuisine reimagined. Chef-Owner Hue-Chan Karels and Executive Chef Erica Tai are reinterpreting heirloom recipes from their culinary roots of Vietnam, Taiwan, Korea, and Hawaii’s Pacific Rim in a modern context, combining traditional and contemporary techniques to create exciting layers of flavors and diverse textures.

Anya Sebastian • Photos by Douglas Merriam

Korean Braised Beef Short Ribs Gochujang demi Medley of vegetable and fruit, sweet potato noodles

Hue-Chan’s special relationship with food is a direct result of her own life experience. She came to the Unites States in 1975, as a refugee from Vietnam, and suddenly everything in her life changed. “There was no Asian food, no ingredients to make anything familiar, and as a young kid that was really upsetting to me.” She was not alone, because other minority communities felt the same way and people started to connect, gathering around food and finding ways to improvise.

Fast forward to 2014, when Hue-Chan arrived in Santa Fe and reimagined Open Kitchen, a farm-to-table restaurant that she had launched in Washington DC in 2009, offering cooking classes and catering private dining events. The business flourished and she became a well-known name in the culinary community, often appearing as a speaker at special events. It was at one of those events, at the Santa Fe Community College, that she met Erica Tai, a graduate student from the Culinary School, who is now the Executive Chef and General Manager for Alkemē

Erica is from Taiwan, and spent her first years in the US in Hawaii. The menu will feature top quality ingredients, many from local farmers and ranchers, and dishes will be authentic, offering a variety of choices to accommodate different dietary preferences. Alkem ē’s curated full liquor beverage menu harmonizes with the flavor profiles of their dishes, from eclectic wine and beer to creative craft cocktails and mocktails.

Alkemē is not just a fine dining restaurant, it’s a new and different kind of lifestyle. We want to bring people together,” says Hue-Chan, “not only to connect and eat well, but to share new experiences and feel nurtured in every sense of the word. That is something that has not been done before and we are excited to be bringing this new culinary concept into people’s lives.”

Alkemē

227 Don Gaspar Avenue 505.982.9704

alkeme-santafe.com

Chả Cá – Crispy Turmeric Cod: Northern Vietnamese specialty, dill aioli, turmeric oil, Asian herb oil, green apple salad, pickled red onions

Kong Rou Fan – Taiwanese Braised Pork Belly: Garlic bok choy, candied kumquat and apples, Jasmine and black sweet rice

L–R: Owner/Chef Hue-Chan Karels, Executive Chef Erica Tai

WHETHER IT’S LUNCH OR DINNER

GRILLED

SHRIMP SALAD

Butter lettuce, roasted corn, cherry tomatoes, shallots, red radishes, fried corn tortillias and honey dijon mustard.

SEARED BUTTERFLY BRONZINO English pea risotto, sauteed spinach, calabacitas, red roasted red pepper and arugula pesto.

Chef Cristian Pontiggia

Chef Fernando O’lea Chef Angel Estrada

Executive Chef/Owner, Graham Dodds

Chef Joseph Wrede

Chef/Owner, Eduardo

Chef Ziggy Montalvo

Chef Alexander Gayton

Chef Douglas Hesselgesser

Basil Pesto

White Balsamic Vinegar

Black Truffle Risotto

Tumai Extra Virgin Olive Oil

Lemon Tea Cookies

Spaghetti Pasta Bianca

away... can just enjoy your day!

•INSULATION

SANTA FE A NING

YOUR KEY TO COMFORTABLE OUTDOOR LIVING!

Northern New Mexico boasts breathtaking weather throughout the year, catering to diverse preferences. With its tranquil autumns, snowy winters, rejuvenating springs, and warm summers, the place we call home offers a complete weather package. If you have a portal or back patio, you'll undoubtedly be inclined to relish the splendors of the stunning high desert landscape. However, as we all know, springtime in Santa Fe brings powerful winds, and summers progressively become hotter yearly. A local company has been tackling this increasing issue for over three decades.

“My father started Santa Fe Awning over thirty years ago, and I’ve been helping run our family business since I was in school,” says Sara Maul, Co-Owner of Santa Fe Awning. “His unwavering commitment to his customers has inspired me to continue to serve the community with custom, made-in New Mexico products so they can enjoy their home to the fullest.”

Santa Fe Awning’s sun solutions for customers begin with a conversation. Every solution is custom and tailored to the homeowner. Creating a shade structure for every customer is the company’s core function.

“Upon conducting a thorough consultation with the customer regarding their issues, we proceed to design a shade structure capable of shielding against either intense sun, wind, or both. It then becomes a luxurious addition to the home, expanding the boundaries of your living space and seamlessly blending nature into your daily life, creating countless exquisite moments spent outdoors.”

Constructed from fabric and materials from the United States, the awnings are crafted in Santa Fe and boast function and quality. Products range from extensive patio wind and solar screens to geometric shade sails. All are built to last and provide continuous benefits.

The screens offer substantial savings on summer cooling bills by effectively blocking harmful UV rays. During the winter months, these retractable products can be withdrawn to allow for solar gain, resulting in reduced heating bills as well.

“I enjoy the creative aspect the most. Engaging with customers, understanding their challenges, and devising innovative designs to enhance their space truly excites me. I derive great pleasure from conversing with clients, listening to their needs, and formulating solutions that will improve their home.”

Sara and her team at Santa Fe Awning have been a trusted name in Northern New Mexico for over three decades, providing custom

shade solutions to combat the region’s changing weather. From powerful winds in the spring to increasingly hotter summers, the company continues to help homeowners thoroughly enjoy their homes and the breathtaking landscapes surrounding them.

Santa Fe Awning 2954 Rodeo Park Dr W 505.474.6460 – Santa Fe SantaFeAwning.com 505.243.9089 – Albuquerque AlbuquerqueAwning.com

From traditional to contemporary, Hunter Douglas window fashions enhance the beauty of any décor. Contact us to explore the wide variety of fabrics, textures, styles and colors for your home. Whatever you select, your rooms are sure to be inviting for years to come.

Linson's Design Source

Designer Screen Shades

From traditional to contemporary, Hunter Douglas window fashions enhance the beauty of any décor. Contact us to explore the wide variety of fabrics, textures, styles and colors for your home. Whatever you select, your rooms are sure to be inviting for years to come.

window shadings

428 Sandoval Street, Santa Fe, NM

Please contact store for hours

From traditional to contemporary, Hunter Douglas window fashions enhance the beauty of any décor. Contact us to explore the wide variety of fabrics, textures, styles and colors for your home. Whatever you select, your rooms are sure to be inviting for years to come.

Linson's Design Source

Sunday and Monday:Closed

428 Sandoval Street, Santa Fe, NM

(505) 984-8700

Please contact store for hours

Linson's Design Source

428 Sandoval Street, Santa Fe, NM

www.linsonsdesignsource.com

Sunday and Monday:Closed

Please contact store for hours

(505) 984-8700

Sunday and Monday:Closed

www.linsonsdesignsource.com

(505) 984-8700

©2021 Hunter Douglas. All rights reserved. All trademarks used herein are the property of Hunter Douglas or their respective owners.13944712

www.linsonsdesignsource.com

©2021 Hunter Douglas. All rights reserved. All trademarks used herein are the property of Hunter Douglas or their respective owners.13944712

With Hunter Douglas window fashions, the possibilities are endless.

With Hunter Douglas window fashions, the

Kinzig Design Lamps

Ann Gish

Bella Notte

Libeco

Wildlife takes center stage at CHOBE NATIONAL PARK

by Debbie Stone

Iam both repelled and fascinated by crocodiles, as their fearsome reputation precedes them. No one wants to mess with a croc, but many people will seize the opportunity to view one up close, particularly within its natural habitat.

Prior to my trip to Botswana, I had only seen these primordial creatures in nature centers, where I felt removed from them. So, when the boat I was riding in started inching closer to the banks of the Chobe River, where a croc was sun bathing, the experience suddenly became a bit too close for comfort.

Despite the excitement from all the paparazzi onboard, the croc appeared to be comatose. But then, it opened one reptilian eye and appeared to train its gaze directly on me. I nervously chuckled, while moving further back into the boat. After a few minutes, I averted my eyes and graciously

allowed the cold-blooded creature to win this uncomfortable staring contest.

Chobe River acts as the northern boundary of Chobe National Park and is a year-round, life-giving source of water. The park occupies a diverse landscape and the many habitats offer shelter for one of the greatest concentrations of game on the African continent.

Most visitors to the park do a game drive to spot the Big Five: lion, elephant, giraffe, buffalo and rhino. It’s not uncommon to see a herd of elephants crossing the road in front of your vehicle, on their way to the river. They move with a one-track mission and the ground shakes as they thunder past.

While in the park, I was only able to spot a few lions, as they were well-camouflaged, like their kin, the leopard. I felt fortunate though to see two of the latter. The first was draped over a branch; the other lay on the ground in all its photogenic glory.

I was also lucky to see a pack of African wild dogs. This creature is one of the world’s most endangered mammals. Though the

pack was quiet, our guide told us not to be fooled, as these fierce hunters are always on high alert and can sprint up to forty-five mph in pursuit of prey.

Giraffes are obviously easy to locate, as are zebras and the ubiquitous antelope in the park.

Everyone who visits Chobe is intent on seeing the Big Five, but there’s also the Ugly Five: the vulture, hyena, warthog, baboon and marabou.

Baboons roam in troops and there are warnings posted everywhere about their combative behavior, while vultures and hyenas greedily scavenge off the carcasses of other creatures.

The prize for most homely, however, goes to the marabou, a ginormous stork with a massive conical bill and a large reddish pouch hanging from its neck.

As the sun began to set on the river, my focus changed from wildlife to the sublime colors of the landscape. Streaks of brilliant hues flashed against the darkening sky, spreading like an African bushfire with a Midas touch.

PICKLEBALL TAKES OFF!

More Courts are Coming in Santa Fe and Albuquerque

By Wolf Schneider

It’s easy to learn. Inexpensive to buy the gear. Courts are cropping up everywhere. Pickleball is the fastest growing sport in America with more than 36 million people picking up paddles in 2022, according to CNBC and the Association for Pickleball Professionals. APP determined that 14% of Americans played pickleball at least once between August 2021 and August 2022. CNBC reported that Pickleball has even attracted sponsors like Holland America, Anheuser-Busch, and Skechers. A combination of tennis, badminton, and ping pong, the sport was created in 1985 in Bainbridge Island, Washington.

According to Cindy Lawton, who’s president of the Santa Fe Pickleball Club, that club grew from 250 to 700 members in the last year. “Most people play at the public outdoor courts at the Fort Marcy complex,” she says. There are also courts at The Club at Las Campanas, Santa Fe Community College, Genoveva Chavez Community Center, and other locations. “It combines a bit of social, mental, and physical well-being, which appeals to the Santa Fe community,” comments Lawton. “In many cases, here in Santa Fe it is the socialization that makes it so popular, especially for those that live alone. People can just show up and have plenty of people to play with and without worrying about finding other players.”

In Albuquerque, the city has almost a hundred courts--some dedicated for the sport, some multi-use tennis courts with pickleball lines drawn. “We need more courts. We’re building more. We’re trying to get larger tournaments to come in, pro and amateur,” says Larry “Bud” Lite, who’s president of the New Mexico-Arizona Pickleball Association. Popular gathering spots include Manzano Mesa Pickleball Courts on the east side and Ventana Ranch Park on the west.

“We’re seeing new courts being built all over,” says Brandon Mackie, co-founder of Pickleheads, a resource site. According to that site, there are currently over 10,000 pickleball courts in the United States, with players aged 55 and up comprising the largest age bracket in 2021. Men made up 60.5% of players in 2021, while women made up 39.5%. California had the highest number of courts at last count (794), followed by Florida (770), then Texas (519). “Pickleball is a fun sport that anyone can learn and enjoy, regardless of athletic ability,” Mackie says.

“It’s not hard,” assures Lite. “If someone wants to learn about pickleball, come out to the courts and ask folks, how do I get some lessons?”

For more info: www.pickleheads.com; in Santa Fe contact sfepickleball@gmail.com; in Albuquerque contact larrybudlite@gmail.com.

“I do not have a great love of dentists, so for me to give 5 stars takes some work. This is a dream team. I felt listened to and understood and was even asked about my preferences for treatment options! I am actually looking forward to going back in 6 months.”

Robyn, Santa Fe

“The best dental office you’ll ever find!”

Robert, Taos

“Entire office staff is terrific. They all go above and beyond.”

Jeanne, Santa Fe

“My experience here is so different, you make me want to come back. I appreciate your hard work, ethic, and caring attitude and a simple thank you is not enough.”

Dennis, Albuquerque

“I have never had a dentist take the time to understand my overall health and how this has impacted my dental health. Very thorough and personable. Fantastic office staff. A+”

Jen, Santa Fe

“Hands down best service I’ve had in years. Highly recommend!!!”

George, Pecos

“Friendly, on time, painless!”

Mick, Lamy

“Who likes to go to the dentist?! These people make it actually fun! They’re great!”

Antonia, Santa Fe SCAN TO READ MORE REVIEWS!