No Place Like Home for the Holidays
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We can use your donations of windows, doors, working appliances, etc. Your donations and purchases of these items help build homes.
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You can help us by donating to the Habitat ReStore. The following items would be appreciated: .LU[S` \ZLK HWWSPHUJLZ /V\ZLOVSK P[LTZ ,SLJ[YVUPJZ *LSS 7OVULZ )\PSKPUN :\WWSPLZ 0M `V\ ^HU[ [V RLLW P[ V\[ VM [OL SHUKÄSS JHSS \Z [V ZLL PM ^L»SS [HRL P[
Our Mission Statement:
Habitat for Humanity works in partnership with people from all walks of life to build houses, hope and community with people in need, and by so doing, witness God’s love in action.
This ad is paid for by Chevron Mining - Questa Mine. Please join our employees who support the mission of Habitat for Humanity of Taos with contributions, in-kind donations and physical labor. 2 0 1 3
ta os n e w s . c om / a g l ow
taosAglow n 2013
Contents 6 Welcome to Wonderland:
Taos during the holidays is a special place 8 The nights are aglow,
a photo collage 10 Festival of Trees and Wreaths:
A good time for all, and a benefit for local charities 16 Holiday terms, en Español 18 27th annual Yuletide Caroling
and Tree Lighting 22 Three books
that explore Taos 24 Taos Feeds Taos
fills stomachs and hearts this holiday season 28 Lighting Ledoux:
A holiday reunion Farolitos line the walls at Taos Plaza during the town of Taos’ annual tree lighting event last year.
Rick Romancito
33 Bonfires on Bent Street
delivers holiday block party fun 36 Toy drives make the holidays brighter 40 Take the time
to help make the holidays special for others 42 Hungry? Let the pros do the cooking 44 Cook up something
authentically Taos with Fayne Lutz 46 Biscochitos: A Taos holiday tradition 48 Decorating for the holidays,
A torchlight parade in Red River.
Taos-style 52 Watch the holidays light up at Twirl 56 Torchlight parades a shining tradition 58 Historic and cultural holidays
File Photo
at Taos museums On the cover: Gene Kloss, “Christmas Eve — Taos Pueblo, 1934,” aquatint and drypoint, 11x14 inch. On long-term loan to the New Mexico Museum of Art from the Fine Arts Program, Public Buildings Service, U.S. General Services Administration (2947.23G).
60 A holiday apart at Taos Pueblo 62 LAs Posadas and Los Pastores,
longtime community traditions Staff Robin Martin, Owner n Chris Baker, Publisher n Joan Livingston, Editor n Chris wood, Advertising Manager ANDY JONES, Special Sections Editor n Marilyn M. Olsen, Designer virginia l. clark, Copy Editor n jennifer taphorn, Production Manager
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64 Calendar of Events
2 0 1 3
Feliz Navidad
Board of Trustees
Luisa Mylet Virgil Martinez Arturo Rodarte Ambrose Mascarenas Jerry Smith
Kit Cars
Luis Reyes
E le
ctric Coop
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Bobby Ortega Manuel Medina Chris Duran Bruce Jassman David Torrez Peter Adang
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hanksgiving creates a grand experience for through New Year’s the kids. Kids of all ages will no Day in Taos is a doubt enjoy any of the torchlight time of joy and parades put on by local ski areas. wonder that match- We explore what happens bees any season anywhere in the hind the scenes at the torchlight world. When the temperature parades on page 56. dips in the Enchanted Circle, Looking for culture? We’ve the twinkling lights come on. got a rundown on what’s hapWhether the light is generated pening at local museums on by the power grid or by candles page 58, and we’d be remiss if we in a paper bag matters not, the didn’t share an invitation to exfeel of the holidyas in Taos is electric. Kicking off early with the charitable and fashionable Festival of Trees and Wreaths (page 10), the holiday season doesn’t let up until the last dance is finished at Taos and Picuris Pueblos on New Year’s Day. Every weekend has something to offer holiday revelers, from time-honored traditions such as Lighting Ledoux and Bonfires on Bent, to events that express the true meaning of the season (giving), such as Taos Feeds Taos (page 26) and numerous toy drives (page 36). This issue of Taos Aglow also offers Steven Bundy some holiday reading Farolitos are a big reason Taos is aglow during the tips (page 22), recipes holiday season. (page 44) and other traditions like biscochitos (page perience Christmas Eve at Taos 46). Want to know when and Pueblo, a magical and unique where to volunteer this holiday experience if there ever was one. season? We’ve got you covered So I’ll say it again, it’s hard on page 40. Looking for a fineto beat Taos during the holidays. dining holiday experience, see Layer up and venture into the page 42. Aglow. Turn to page 52 to see how — Andy Jones, special Twirl Toystore and Playspace sections editor
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taosAglow
Courtesy Angel Fire Resort/Shane Nance Photo
Fireworks over Angel Fire Resort on Christmas Eve.
Tina Larkin
Farolitos at the MartĂnez Hacienda.
RIck Romancito
Yuletide Caroling and Tree Lighting.
The Festival of Trees and Wreaths. Rick Romancito
Bonfires on Bent Street. ta os n e w s . c om / a g l ow
Tina Larkin
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The Festival of Trees and Wreaths at El Monte Sagrado.
Festival of Trees and Wreaths
a good time for all, and a benefit for local charities
festival of trees and wreaths
Public Viewing and Silent Auction: Nov. 26–Dec. 6 n Children’s Party: Dec. 5, 3–5 p.m. n Community Holiday Party: Dec. 6, 5:30–10 p.m. n
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F
or the second-straight year, the Taos County Chamber of Commerce will host the Festival of Trees and Wreaths. Last year, the Chamber took over the reigns of the event after a one-year hiatus. The Taos News put on the event during its first decade. Last year’s event raised community awareness and more than $30,000 for local
nonprofits. Additionally, many of the nonprofits — who work diligently in the background — gained much-needed exposure for their programs. This year, the premise of the event is the same as it has always been; organizations and businesses decorate a tree or wreath which will be bid on during the silent auction. The proceeds of the auction go to the nonprofit or charity that was designated by the tree-decorating group. Following the auction, charities often benefit once again, as buyers some-
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times donate the trees and wreaths back to the nonprofit. The festivities begin with a children’s party on Thursday, Dec. 5 from 3 to 5 p.m., at El Monte Sagrado. Children will have a chance to meet Santa Claus, enjoy arts and crafts, and a holiday snack. The free children’s party is sponsored by the Taos County Chamber of Commerce, Twirl Toystore and Playspace, Moby Dickens Bookstore and El Trees and Wreaths continues on page 14
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Angus MacDonald’s New Expanded Gallery/Studio Featuring new works and his holiday show through January 1st.
Photos by Tina Larkin / The Taos News
Reata Fine Art
Also featuring new paintings by Andersen Kee (Diné). 117 Kit Carson Road, Taos (Next to Kit Carson Museum) · 575-758-4080 reata@reatafineart.com · www.reatafineart.com 2 0 1 3
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taosAglow
Rick Romancito
Guests participate in the silent auction during last year’s Community Holiday Part of the Festival of Trees and Wreaths.
Rick Romancito
A label on one of the trees shows the sponsor and which charity benefits from the auction proceeds. In this case, both were the Taos Special Olympics. Trees and Wreaths continued from page 10
Monte Sagrado. This fun event gives kids an opportunity to see and enjoy the trees before the main event on Friday evening, when the festival returns to El Monte Sagrado Living Resort and Spa with the Community Holiday
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Party at 6 p.m. Tickets to the party are $20 per person. The community will be able to view and bid on the trees and wreaths in the resort’s conference center up until the party, when the silent bidding really heats up. Party-goers will enjoy music by The Damn Band, hors d’ouevres and desserts while bidding on their favorite trees and wreaths. Admission includes two drink tickets for beer or wine. The Taos County Chamber of Commerce has made some enhancements to this year’s party that include Taos Ski Valley, Inc. running a shuttle van from the free town of Taos parking lot on Kit Carson Road to the El Monte Sagrado Living Resort & Spa, and a photo booth by Sean Kelly Portraits photographer Chuck McLaughlin, who in the spirit of the event will be donating his profits to Taos Men’s Shelter. Raffle tickets will be sold at the party with the prize being a two-night stay at The Beaver Creek Lodge in Beaver Creek, Colo.,
ta os n e w s . c om / a g l ow
provided by The Kessler Collection. The prize also includes a rental car from Enterprise Rent-a-Car, a Cid’s basket of goodies and more items to make for a terrific get-away weekend. The silent auction bidding will close 9 p.m. during the Community Holiday Party, when the winning bidders and raffle prize winner will be announced. According to Susan Cady at the Taos County Chamber of Commerce, the staff and board members have enjoyed the pure gift of the season while coordinating this event. “All of the sponsors have come so willingly to the table with bright ideas and unbound energy to create a wonderful event for the community,” Cady said. The event is generously supported by El Monte Sagrado Living Resort & Spa. Other sponsors include The Taos News, Taos Ski Valley, Inc., Walmart, Coca-Cola of Santa Fe, Southern Wine & Spirits, TEN and Recycle Taos. 2 0 1 3
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Holiday terms, en Español
he culture of Northern New Mexico has been strongly influenced by the region’s Native and Hispanic heritages. As such, even the vocabulary of the holidays can take on an almost foreign feeling for the average visitor. Many of the terms in this guide, for instance, have their origins in our Spanish culture. With that in mind, here is a glossary of seasonal terms you’ll want to learn in order to enjoy the holiday season in Taos.
s Bartolo: The shepard leader in the play “Los Pastores.” s Belén: Bethlehem s Biscochitos: Homemade, anise-flavored cookies that are a staple in many New Mexican households during the holidays. s Chile verde, chile colorado: Green chile, red chile. s Chocolate casero: Homemade hot chocolate. s Dando los Días: New Year’s Eve singing that honors neighbors and friends. s Día de Accíon de Gracias: Thanksgiving Day. s Emanuel: Emmanuel, the newborn savior, i.e. Jesus. s Empanaditas: Sweet turnovers made with mince meat, piñon, raisins and spices. s Farolitos: Little candles in paper bags that line roads and buildings (in the southern part of the state, a farolito is a bonfire). s Feliz Navidad: Merry Christmas.
s Los Comanches: The Comanches, but also a variety of Hispanicized Plains and nomadic Native American singing, dancing and drumming that takes place on New Year’s Day. s Los Matachines: The literal translation is “masked dancers,” but it is also the name of a pageant performed at Christmas by Pueblo Indians, and sometimes by Hispanic villagers. s Los Pastores: “Shepherds,” but in the holiday context it is a Spanish-language play about the shepherds going to Bethlehem to honor the Christ child. s Luminarias: Vigil fires of aromatic piñon wood (just as farolitos are bonfires in the southern part of New Mexico, luminarias are candles in paper bags there as well; it’s simply reversed). s Gila: The shepherd cook in the play “Los Pastores.” s Hermitaño: “Los Pastores” spiritual leader, the hermit. s Las Posadas: From the Spanish word posada, meaning shelter — a Spanish-language pageant about the search for shelter by Joseph and Mary, as Jesus was about to be born. s Misa de Gallo: Midnight Mass. s Noche Buena: Christmas Eve. s Ocote: Pitch wood, used in luminarias. s Prospero Año Nuevo: Prosperous New Year. s Vino de Capulín: Chokecherry wine, a local staple.
At a time when Christ is often lost in Christmas let us be reminded of the reason for the season. This is the season of blessings, of love, and of faith. It is important to draw near family and friends this holiday season. From our family to yours we wish the citizens of Taos County a safe and blessed holiday season. Sincerely, Matthew, Vicki, Enrique, Adara, Matteya, and Aaron. Paid Political advertisement to elect matthew vigil for taos county sheriff in 2014.
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taosAglow
27th annual Yuletide Caroling and Tree Lighting
T
he holiday season in Taos kicks off officially with the annual lighting of the town Christmas tree during the 27th Annual Yuletide Caroling and Tree Lighting on Friday, Dec. 6, from 4 to 6 p.m., at Historic Taos Plaza. Join Mayor Darren Córdova and your neighbors for local entertainment and festivities. Michael Dean from 95.9 The Mountain
will emcee the event. Meet and greet special guests, Mr. and Mrs. Claus, and be prepared for an appearance by the “Mean One,” Mr. Grinch. While you’re waiting, enjoy complimentary hot chocolate and cookies and stroll through Taos Plaza businesses, which will be open late. Vehicles will not be permitted in the plaza during this event. Special parking arrangements will be provided for people requiring ADA access to the event. For more information call Judy Esquibel at (575) 737-2588 or email jesquibel@ taosgov.com.
Rick Romancito
Maria the Firetruck carries holiday dignitaries during last year’s Yuletide Caroling and Tree Lighting, sponsored by the town of Taos.
Yuletide entertainment schedule 4 p.m.: Welcome by Mayor Darren Córdova 4-4:20 p.m.: Girl Scouts, Boy Scouts and
Courtesy Photo
The Yuletide Caroling and Tree Lighting culminates in the countdown and lighting of the white fir tree in Taos Plaza that was a gift from Taos Pueblo to the citizens of Taos.
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Cub Scouts will light farolitos 4:02-4:07 p.m.: Taos Cheer 4:07–4:17 p.m.: Taos Middle School and Taos High School Chorus 4:17-4:27p.m.: Taos Middle School and High School Band 4:27-4:32 p.m.: Sister Missionaries of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints 4:32-4:45 p.m.: Mariachi Jaguar Enchanted 4:45 p.m.: Yuletide Parade
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4:55 p.m.: Fiestas de Taos Royal Court introduction and holiday greetings 4:55 p.m.: Santa Claus will be handing out 200 toys donated by and with the help of the Taos Optimist Club Elves 4:57-5:07 p.m.: Christmas caroling led by Girl Scouts, Boy Scouts and Cub Scouts 5:07-5:17 p.m.: Taos Middle School Drill Team 5:17-5:32 p.m.: Taos Youth Music Group 5:32-5:42 p.m.: Mystic Dance 5:42–5:57 p.m.: Trio Alarcon 5:57 p.m.: Mayor Darren Córdova’s holiday greetings and countdown to the lighting of the Christmas tree
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Amigos de Taos: The Blair Family Christmas
BY ANDY DeNNISoN
For the extended Blair clan, there are two Christmases every year. The first comes, as usual, on Dec. 25 when families gather around the tree to exchange gifts. Then, a second Christmas celebration arrives on the Sunday after New Year’s Day, as some 50 folks descend upon the Sagebrush Inn in Taos for what is now a 35-year tradition. “Because we work through the Christmas holidays at our hotels, we had to celebrate after that,” said Ken Blair, 84, the patriarch of the family and Taos hotel owner. “The kids always say, ‘We have Christmas at home, and then we have Grandpa Christmas.’” The Blair family Christmas is an example of how many people have ties with Taos that are so tight that they must return as often as they can. The town has dubbed this phenomenon Amigos de Taos, and focused a marketing campaign on it.
ir (grandson) ir; Scott Bla la B en K r) (l to lair (son) and Steve B
holding Jada
For the Blairs, Ken had five children who, over the years, spawned 10 grandchildren who produced 10 greatgrandchildren – one of whom may soon give Ken and wife Louise their first great-great grandchild. Add in spouses and their broods, hotel staff and friends of the family in Taos, and it’s easy to see why they pack the dining room at the Sagebrush every year for “Grandpa’s Christmas.”
Even more important than the food is how the gathering keeps the family ties bound.
on);
ds (great gran
(l to r) Ken B and Ricky C lair; Kenny Jr. (son); Bob havez (great by (grandso grandson) n); Paid advertisement
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“I do the cooking, and everybody’s got their favorites,” said Ken. “There’s prime rib, turkey, chili and beans, carne asada, spaghetti and meatballs. The menu has something for everybody.” Even more important than the food is how the gathering keeps the family ties bound. While many began life in Taos, many have moved on to other places in New Mexico, Utah, Oregon and Alaska. “Many of us don’t see each other much, so it’s the chance to see your cousins, reminisce about old times, maybe get a few ski runs in together,” said Ken. “One of the highlights is watching playoff football together.” And the Sagebrush Inn is the only location where all this could happen. It’s the first hotel that Ken bought shortly after he arrived in Taos in 1975, and all five of his children grew up around the hotel. Several of them worked there after following their father out to Taos, and all five were married there. “It just such a tradition,” Ken said. “That’s the only word I can use to describe it. Everybody gets so excited every year. It’s the highlight of the year, and we set the date way, way in advance to be sure everyone can get here.” A native of Massachusetts, Ken Blair grew up in a family that “wasn’t close.” His parents both died at fairly young ages, as did his two brothers. Perhaps that is why his current family is so important to Ken.
“It really bothered me because we should have been close,” he said. “I felt I didn’t want to see the same thing happen in my family as what happened to me when I was young. Maybe that’s why it’s so deep-rooted for me to have the kids understand that family is everything.” For Ken and Louise, family is the strongest human bond and it must be maintained. “Our Christmas in Taos solidifies us, and it gives us all the opportunity to communicate with each other, face to face, at least once a year,” he said. “It feels like it’s almost necessary to bring everyone back together as much as we can. “And now, the great grandkids are coming in like water over a dam,” Ken said with a laugh. “It’s just so much fun, and something we all look forward to every single year.”
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taosAglow By Joan Livingston
Three books that explore Taos
H
ere are three books for those who have history buffs on their holiday gift list. Even better, the books are about Taos history and written by Taoseños. The books selected were published within the past calendar year. Interestingly, each was a collaborative project. Find them at Brodsky Bookshop, 226-A Paseo del Pueblo Norte, and Moby Dickens Bookshop, 124-A Bent St., both in Taos.
“Taos: A Topical History”
theme: Remarkable Women of Taos. For a year, events were tied to the celebration. The book “Remarkable Women of Taos,” Edited by Corina A. Santistevan and compiled and edited by Elizabeth CunJulia Moore, “Taos: A Topical History” was ningham, was published in July this year by published in association with the Taos Nighthawk Press in Taos. County Historical Society with the Museum “This publication barely scratches of New Mexico Press. the surface; recording all of the remarkYears in the making, the book covers able personalities would require a lifetime topics from Taos’ geological history to its and several books. This one, a labor of love reputation as a haven for artists and writers. produced by a community of people is dediIn between, the writers and scholars who cated to the women of Taos — past, present, collaborated on the project explore such and future,” Cunningtopics as land grants, The books selected ham wrote in the book’s Taos’ early trade econowere published within the preface. my, its connection with past calendar year. The book divides the American Civil War, Interestingly, each was a the hundreds of women and Taos Pueblo. collaborative project. profiled into six categoThe authors include John Nichols, the late photographer Mildred ries: arts, outdoors, legends, well-being, business, and community. Each section Tolbert, and the late Jerry A. Padilla, former contains contemporary women except for Spanish editor for The Taos News. the legends section. In the book’s introducCunningham wrote 30 profiles, which tion, F.R. Bob Romero, former were originally featured on the town’s webpresident of the Taos County site. People from the community contribHistorical Society, wrote: uted the rest. “The story of Taos — and the mystery of the place — was perhaps best expressed by writers Frank Waters, who said — and I paraphrase here — that Taos has always had the curious magic of seeming to be discovered by every person who is drawn to its beauty. In essence, Taos is discovered every day.”
“Remarkable Women of Taos” In 2012, the town of Taos lured visitors to the area with the
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“Millicent Rogers: A Life in Full” Another long project yielded a biography of one of Taos’ celebrated women, Millicent Rogers. A Standard oil heiress, Rogers indeed led a life in full as a socialite, fashion icon and art collector. In the mid-1940s she left her globe-trotting life behind for Taos, where she accumulated an immense collection of American Indian artifacts. The family founded a museum in Taos in her name a few years after death in 1953. “Millicent Rogers: A Life in Full” is the work of three Taos writers, the late Art Ba-
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chrach, Nita Murphy and Judith Nasse. ABQ Press in Albuquerque released the book at the end of last year. The book began with Bachrach’s relationship with Rogers’ son, Arturo PeraltaRamos II, who shared stories about his mother. Bachrach, Murphy and Nasse met with him on a regular basis for five years. Peralta-Ramos wrote for the foreword: “First with letters, old news and magazine articles, forgotten pictures, and the probing of my recollection of long-forgotten instances of time and memory, a story began to unfold that even I found hard to fathom and believe of my mother’s past. The story includes high fashion, skiing and bobsledding, sex, cars, spies, multiple international husbands and lovers, family and close friends. She was a unique eyewitness and apparently hidden participant in some of the most important events of the twentieth century.”
2 0 1 3 DATEXXX
T e m p ota mo as gn ae zw i sn. ec /ot mh /e a gtal oo ws n e w s
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taosAglow By Ariana Kramer
Taos Feeds Taos board members Linda and Bill Knief share a kiss among boxes packed by volunteers during last year’s Taos Feeds Taos.
Tina Larkin
Taos Feeds Taos fills stomachs and hearts this holiday season
T
aos Feeds Taos is Córdova said in both the name recent years there and mission of the has been a steady local nonprofit increase of people that brings food to qualifying for the those in need with food baskets. a motto of “Love Joy He encourages Peace.” This year, struggling families Taos Feeds Taos and individuals to apply to receive expects to deliver 1,200 food baskets to india basket this year. viduals and families across Taos County. Retired 1st Sgt. Francis Córdova has been involved with Taos Feeds Taos since it first began in 1986. Córdova said in recent
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years there has been a steady increase of people qualifying for the food baskets. He encourages struggling families and individuals to apply to receive a basket this year. Córdova emphasized that Taos Feeds Taos is a local nonprofit that receives support solely by donations from the community, with board members, like Córdova, working as volunteers. “It makes me feel real good to do this,” says Córdova. “There’s a lot of need in Taos County, and during the holidays is when people really need it. That’s when the kids are out of school and on vacation and this
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food goes a long way for them.” As an example, Córdova shared a story about a family with several children who received food through the program last year. “The husband was unemployed. and the family was really hurting. They were really appreciative.” Córdova explained that for big families, Taos Feeds Taos can provide large baskets of food. “We have special baskets for large families. They were real, real happy about that.” Taos feeds Taos continues on page 26
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1024 Paseo del Pueblo Sur 575-737-0500 - M-Sat 10-6 Sun 11-5 216 & 218 Paseo del Canon 575-737-5112 - M-Sat, 10-6 www.piecestaos.com
Lighting t Mirrors t 1BOFMT t (JGUT 1.8 Miles North of Taos Plaza t Open Daily 1204-D Paseo del Pueblo Norte www.taostinworks.com t 575.758.9724
“Winter is Aglow at Wilder Nightingale” Ruth Valerio
“Winter Lights” Oil 20 x 30
“Winter Magic” Oil 24 x 36
Wilder Nightingale Fine Art 119 Kt Carson Road, Taos 575-758-3255 www.wnightingale.com 2 0 1 3
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Tina Larkin
State Police Sgt. Travis Skinner stands in the home of a Taos Feeds Taos recipient Rose Martínez, who he delievered a box of food to during the event last year. Taos feeds Taos continued from page 24
Córdova emphasized that Taos Feeds Taos is a community effort. Each year, thousands of people help to fund, create Local food markets offer and deliver the food discounted prices for bulk food baskets. Local food marorders, which means that Taos kets offer discounted Feeds Taos can purchase more food by bundling their cash prices for bulk food donations into TFT’s food fund. orders, which means that Taos Feeds Taos can purchase more food by bundling their cash donations into TFT’s food fund. Donations to TFT’s Food Fund can be sent to Taos Feeds Taos, PO Box 234 Taos, New Mexico 87571. Cash donations may be dropped off at local Taos banks or deposited in the colorful, hand-painted collection jars found throughout the county. Donations can also be made online at taosfeedstaos. org. Children around Taos County are also
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collecting non-perishable foods at area schools. A fact that makes Córdova especially proud. “We really appreciate the community getting together, and the schools. The kids get to learn how to share and give. That’s one thing that I really enjoy is seeing all those little kids bringing in their non-perishables to the schools to make the holidays better for somebody else. That’s a learning process for the kids.” Each year hundreds of people come together to assemble and distribute holiday food baskets. Volunteers are needed Dec. 14 through 20 to help sort donated food and to fill and distribute boxes. All activities will happen at the National Guard Armory on the road to Country Club and UNM Klauer Campus, 1145 State Road 110 in Llano Quemado. For questions about volunteering, please e-mail tft@taosfeedstaos.org. Taos area veterans and active soldiers
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have always played an important role in Taos Feeds Taos. Since its earliest days, the National Guard Armory has been used as a place to assemble and distribute the baskets. “The whole community gets together to make it happen,” stressed Córdova. Taos Feeds Taos will hold its sixth annual food drive and benefit show with local band Last to Know on Saturday, Dec. 7 at the KTAOS Solar Center. Admission to the show is free with five cans of food or other nonperishable items. The Taos Feeds Taos Board of Directors is Francis Córdova, president; Louise Padilla, vice president; Eloy Jeantete, treasurer; Linda Knief, secretary; and board members Kat Duran, Mary Jeantete, Bill Knief, Mary Trujillo Mascarenas, Pauline Mondragon, Rita Santistevan and Janet Webb. For more information on Taos Feeds Taos, visit taosfeedstaos.org or email tft@ taosfeedstaos.org.
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Make 500 Christmas Wishes come true
Join us for our 4th Annual Toy Drive. This year we are proud to partner with Walmart and New Mexico CYFD. Please help us make 500 more wishes come true for local children this Christmas. 1. Bring an unwrapped gift for a boy or girl to Walmart on Saturday, November 30 between 9AM and 2PM. “Fill the truck” and all gifts collected that day are guaranteed to go to the 32 children in CYFD’s foster care. Don’t forget to fill out your entry blank to win daily prizes at Friday Motors. 2. Bring unwrapped gifts to Friday Motors between Nov. 29th and Dec. 20 and enter to win one of these great prizes in the daily drawings: r r r r r r r r r r r r r r
$250 gift certificate from Friday Motors $200 Kit Carson Electric gift certificate $100 Kit Carson Propane gift certificate $100 pre-paid utility of your choice from Century 21 Success $100 pre-paid gas card from Joella Montoya’s Farmers’ Insurance $100 pre-paid card of your choice from the Double D Ranch 2 adult lift tickets to Taos Ski Valley $100 gift certificate to High Altitude Athletics $100 gift certificate to Cid’s Food Market Taos Twist’s 6 piece place setting ($324 value) Gift certificate from Dr. Kellie Harris Gift certificate from Olguin’s Sawmill Pre-paid debit card from Peoples Bank Taos Twist is 6, 5-piece place settings (30 pieces total)
3. Bid on our silent auction items to raise money for our local youth sports scholarships! t t t t t t t
5BPT 4LJ 7BMMFZ QBDLBHF "EWFSUJTJOH QBDLBHF GSPN UIF 5BPT /FXT "EWFSUJTJOH QBDLBHF GSPN ,,*5 ,,5$ ,705 ,9.5 'BNJMZ .FNCFSTIJQ UP ,VSU T 5BPT 5FOOJT BU 2VBJM 3JEHF WBMVF
4FBST PG 5BPT " ,JE T 1MBDF BSU CZ -BVSJF )JMM 1IFMQT "OE NBOZ NPSF UP CF BOOPVODFE
Over 1500 gifts delivered to 500 children so far, and $7000 in sports scholarships since 2010.
Listen to KKIT - the Mountain, weekdays starting December 5th at 9:30AM to see if you won!
1BTFP EFM 1VFCMP 4VS t 758-2252 2 0 1 3
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taosAglow
We can think of no better way Museum of Art’s 90th anniversary) is wonderful about our remarkable
Friends Juan Carlos Rodríquez and Edwardo Manuel hold candles by a fire during the last year’s Lighting Ledoux.
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to culminate our celebration of one of Taos’ most enduring community organizations (Harwood than by participating in Lighting Ledoux — a celebration of light embodying so much of what corner of the world.” Susan Longhenry, director of the Harwood Museum
Tina Larkin
A group of carolers sing during last year’s Lighting Ledoux.
Lighting Ledoux
A holiday reunion
O
Tina Larkin
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ne of Taos’ most beloved holiday traditions, Lighting Ledoux, returns to Ledoux Street — just one block south of Taos Plaza from 5 to 7 p.m. on Saturday, Dec. 7. This year’s event coincides with a special anniversary. “We’ve been celebrating the Harwood Museum of Art’s 90th anniversary all fall,” says Susan Longhenry, director of the Harwood Museum of Art. “As it happens, though, Dec. 7 marks 90 years to the day that the Harwood Foundation’s Articles of
Incorporation were registered with the State Corporation Commission. And we can think of no better way to culminate our celebration of one of Taos’ most enduring community organizations than by participating in Lighting Ledoux — a celebration of light embodying so much of what is wonderful about our remarkable corner of the world.” The sense that something special is about to happen begins during the afternoon, when farolitos (small paper lanterns) begin to appear in front of the museums, galleries, and boutiques lining Ledoux Street — Taos’ oldest street. Around that time the street is closed to vehicles, leaving it open only to pedestrians. By 5 p.m. the farolitos are lit, casting an elegant glow down this curving, historic street. Just as the sun is
ta os n e w s . c om / a g l ow
setting and a chill grips the air, bonfires begin to punctuate the courtyards lining the street. And then the action begins. A joyful parade originating at Taos Plaza leads Father Winter along Ledoux Street to the Harwood Museum of Art, where he spends the rest of the evening hearing children’s holiday wishes in the museum’s Arthur Bell Auditorium. The street fills with community members greeting each other during this very special holiday block party, with the occasional sound of bagpipes or Christmas carols animating the spontaneous celebrations. And the Ledoux Street hosts open their doors for warmth, refreshments, and a range of special activities. Ledoux continues on page 30
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Lighting Ledoux revelers enjoy roasting marshmallows over a bonfire in the courtyard of the Blumenschein Home and Museum on Ledoux Street at last year’s event. ledoux continued from page 29
Lighting Ledoux highlights this year include: s Merry Heart Antiques & Fine Things, located in the courtyard of the E.L. Blumenschein Home, will offer a 50 percent discount on a large selection of vintage nativities, along with a bonfire and festive goodies. s Black Mesa Winery Tasting Room & Gallery will keep things festive and warm with live music by Mark Dudrow and Justin Dean, hot mulled wine and hot cider, holiday cookies and wine specials. s R.C. Gorman Navajo Gallery will offer refreshments and a 30 percent dis-
Tina Larkin
count on all fine art sold during Lighting Ledoux. s The Linda Rauch Gallery, located next to the Harwood Museum of Art, will host an open house with refreshments. s In addition to hosting Father Winter in its Arthur Bell Auditorium, the Harwood Museum of Art will offer free admission to all of its exhibitions, a performance by the Taos Community Chorus, a bonfire, cider and cookies, and family-friendly art-making in its Fern Hogue Mitchell Education Center. Other confirmed Lighting Ledoux participants (as of press time) include OptiMysm and the Inger Jirby Gallery. The best part of Lighting Ledoux, however, is the opportunity that it pro-
Tina Larkin
Attendees grab some hot minestrone soup provided by Stella’s Italian restaurant on the corner of Camino de la Placita and Ledoux Street during last year’s event. vides for the Taos community to come together. “During Lighting Ledoux, the Harwood Museum of Art welcomes more than 1,200 people over the course of two hours,” Longhenry says. “It’s a very sweet shared experience that feels, in many
ways, like a reunion — since we see many of these people every year. I think that’s what Lighting Ledoux is about for us.” For more information about Lighting Ledoux, contact Longhenry at susanl@unm.edu.
Hundreds of gifts under 20 dollars!
Order your holiday arrangement online at www.taosflorist.com 30
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Family
Pepe’s Salsa
900 Paseo Norte Open 7-5 Everyday 575 758 8556 2 0 1 3
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Happy Holidays
...from your
friends at Taos Physical Therapy SERVIING OUR &20081,7< SINCE 1984
Photos by Tina Larkin / The Taos News
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Magical Holiday Gifts at Petree Nursery
Fresh Green Wreaths & Garlands Hanging Air Plant Globes Paperwhites & Amaryllis Gardening Gifts
OPEN ALL YEAR Winter Hours Monday-Saturday, 10-4, (575) 758-3021 25 Petree Lane, Just off of Blueberry Hill Road 32
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taosAglow
Tina Larkin
Bonfires on Bent Street.
Bonfires on Bent Street delivers Holiday Block Party fun Bonfires on bent street
Saturday, Dec. 14, from 10 a.m. to 7 p.m. n Santa Paws, noon until 3 p.m. n Reception, 4 to 7 p.m. n
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fter putting on the Holiday Block Party for 20 years, the John Dunn Shops joined forces with the Bent Street merchants five years ago. The resulting event, Bonfires on Bent Street Holiday Block Party, has become a local favorite. At least 35 shops will offer hors d’oeuvres, cookies and various drinks all day, as well as deals, drawings, prizes and lots of holiday cheer. Festivities will begin with the “Santa Paws” fundraiser benefiting the St. James Pet Food
Pantry. From noon until 3 p.m., in front of Moby Dickens, furry family friends are invited to have their photo taken with “Santa Paws.” Pets will also be available for adoption at the free event. Hot beverages and snacks will be served outside, and bonfires will keep everyone warm and add to the holiday cheer. Call (575) 758-8110 for info. The reception, from 4 to 7 p.m., will include music by Billy Archuleta, the Taos Community Chorus, and others. At the “corner” of Bent Street/John Dunn Way will be a spread of tamales, posole and other treats. All the shops will be open and decorated and most will have refreshments inside. Outside the shops, farolitos, luminarias
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and Santa Claus will add to the yuletide fun. Throughout the day enjoy shopping, refreshments, music, and holiday cheer. Bent Street and the John Dunn Shops offer a wide variety of unique, quality gifts in all price ranges. Offerings include wine, fashions for men and women, books, art, cookware, outdoor gear, crafts, folk art, fossils and minerals, shoes, leather products, fabrics, yarn, jewelry and even antique maps. Gift certificates are available in many shops and in Lambert’s of Taos, Bent Street Deli and Coffee Cats. bonfires continues on page 34
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taosAglow
Tina Larkin Courtesy Photo
Carolers during the Bonfires on Bent Street Holiday Block Party. bonfires continued from page 33
Special offerings from the shops on Bent Street and John Dunn Way Las Comadres Gallery in the John Dunn Shops is celebrating the holidays with a sampling of artists’ special pieces to be raffled off during “Bonfires on Bent Street.” Revelers and shoppers are invited to drop their name in the box (from Dec. 1-14) and hopefully be one of eight lucky winners drawn on Dec 14. Visit the gallery, share in the hot cider, cookies, cheer and, of course, beautiful art for those special people on your shopping list. Tina Larkin
La Chiripada Winery will be having a wine tasting. Mudd-N-Flood will be offering discounts throughout the shop and customers get to spin the Wheel of Fortune for great prizes and discounts. Mooncat Fiber will be offering specials on hand-knit garments for the holiday season. Hats, gloves, scarves and shawls will be among the many items available for that special person on your gift list this year. Fine local yarns, including buffalo, yak and alpaca are available for knitting up something special. The Rancho Milagro Collection will feature artists Jim Wagner, Jonathan Warm Day Coming and Woody Crumb. Moby Dickens will have Santa Claus Santa from 4 p.m. until close.
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Taos Cookery willhave goodies to eat and drawings for merchandise during the reception, 4 to 7 p.m. Ammann Gallery will have cookies and hot cider from 3 p.m. until closing, and lots of new hand-crafted items from some of your favorite Taos artists just in time for holiday shopping. Taos Artisans Gallery on Bent Street will be celebrating their 30th year in Taos with 10 percent off everything in the store, from 4 to 6 p.m. Mariposa Boutique will have a sweater sale on select sweaters and will be serving refreshments. Sam’s Shop will have lovely gifts with purchase of their comfortable, elegant clothing and a Champagne party at 6 p.m. Monet’s Kitchen will be offering 10 percent off – storewide (excluding already reduced items) – from 4 to 6 p.m. Dwellings Revisited will have primitives, folk art, and oddities. Lambert’s of Taos offers exquisite dining, fine wines, and hand-crafted cocktails in the heart of Bent Street. Ortenstone Delattre Fine Art will be showing abstract and figurative paintings and prints. Taos Blue, at the head of Bent Street, will show fine hand-crafted art and gifts. There will be a grab bag for free gifts with every purchase. FX/18 will show contemporary jewelry and
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This year, Santa Claus will be at Moby Dickens during Bonfires on Bent Street. unexpected gifts at affordable prices. And don’t miss the firespinning in front of the store. Earth and Spirit Gallery will have handmade jewelry, body products, paintings, hand-painted guitars and drums by Shari Ubechel. The store will be offering a free choker or chain with pendant purchase and a free print with painting purchase. There will be cozy indoor fires, mulled wine, treats and drumming. Heinley Fine Arts is having music and continuing its tradition of providing marshmellows for roasting in the courtyard, as well as hot apple cider. All artwork will be 10 percent off the entire weekend of Bonfires, featuring work by Jivan Lee, Nicholas Herrera, David Michael Kennedy and Evelyne Boren. Common Thread invites you to celebrate lights! Get warm and snuggly with winter gifts, a cookie and a cozy raffle. Bent Street Café and Deli will, for the 25th year, offer a generous spread of posole, tamales, chile, cookies and more starting at 4 p.m. La Tierra Mineral Gallery is offering a 20 percent discount storewide all day, including its large jewelry collection. From Dec. 1-14, come in and register for a raffle drawing for two great items. The raffle will be held Dec. 14. They will be serving refreshments from 4 p.m. til close. Seconds Eco Store will have a special display of recycled art works in addition to the storewide collection of recycled, solar-powered and green goods. 2DATEXXX 0 1 3
â&#x20AC;&#x153;All sorrows are less with red chileâ&#x20AC;? -Mark Janssen
Dining Out Winter/Spring 2014
www.taosmenus.com
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taosAglow ByTeresa Dovalpage
Toy drives make holidays brighter Twirl
225 Camino de la Placita n (575) 751-1402; twirlhouse.com n
cav
945 Salazar Road n (575) 758-8082; taoscav.org/ n
T
aoseños, it’s not too late to donate and get in the spirit of giving! Several toy drives have already taken place this holiday season, but if you haven’t participated yet, or would like to do it again, there is still time. A few campaigns are still underway.
Cool store, warm heart Twirl is one of the coolest toy stores in the country, but its team also has a warm, generous heart. Just as they have for several years, the store is currently involved in various initiatives to support the Dreamtree Project, the CAV Angel Tree, the Angel Tree Project and Taos Feeds Taos. A donation jar is now placed at the sales desk and all monies collected will be given to the Dreamtree Emergency Shelter. They will also receive any gifts that people want to contribute
throughout December. There are donation boxes set up in the store’s two courtyards. “At-risk teens are often overlooked during the holidays so we wanted to support the Dreamtree Project’s efforts in making this vulnerable group feel cared for and appreciated,” says Nikki Ross, Twirl’s marketing director. Twirl is also supporting the CAV Holiday Angel Tree with a $250 gift certificate and the Angel Tree Project with $250 worth of toy donations for their Annual Gift Giveaway. Finally, recognizing that many families often don’t have the means to feed their children during this season of plentiful eating, let alone give them toys, the Twirl team is supporting Taos Feeds Taos through the proceeds of its Festival of Trees and Wreaths tree, Taos Aglow ad and food collection boxes placed at the store. “We want to make the holidays a magical, happy time for children, teens and adults in our community,” said Ross.
Pick up an angel
Santa and Mrs. Claus present a child with a gift during last year’s Angel Tree Project gift giveaway.
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ta os n e w s . c om / a g l ow
Tina Larkin
This is the 17th year that Community Against Violence is hosting a toy drive. “We are asking the community once more to support current and former CAV clients in making their holiday wishes come true,” said Jami McFerren, CAV community relations development director. The project provides gifts for over 500 children every year. Before the holidays start, the CAV workers compile an anonymous list of children (the “angels”) sorted by gender and age, and a list of the items that they either need or want. “Angels are available for pickup starting Nov. 15,” said McFerren. “Donors can go to the CAV offices and choose the kids they want to help, shop for the presents and bring them back to CAV by Dec. 16.” They collect gifts for children ages 0 to 16. “Teenagers often ask for winter clothes like jackets and coats, movie tickets and gift cards for Bealls and Walmart,” said Loreta Romo, CAV service data manager. “As for younger kids, boys like action figures and girls prefer dolls. Lalaloopsy and Monster High dolls are big favorites now.” Anyone who does not want to go shopping can contribute financially to the project by maktoy drive continues on page 38
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Miniature Paintings by
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Make great holiday gifts!
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This Christmas we say thanks Taos. 2 0 1 3
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taosAglow
The Angel Tree Project team during last year’s gift giveaway. ing a cash donation. “Distribution of gifts will take place on Sunday, Dec. 22,” said McFerren. “There is still time for people to donate and contribute. We ask all Taoseños for help to make our children’s dreams come true this holiday.”
The Angel Tree Project: a little extra help Jerry and Shirley Lujan founded the Angel Tree Project 17 years ago and they haven’t stopped since. “We want to give disadvantaged children, special-need citizens and the elderly in the community a little extra help during the holidays in the form of toys, clothes, gifts and useful household items,” said Shirley Lujan. “Holidays can be challenging for them, since limited resources
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and stressful situations make it difficult for these families to celebrate. Let’s help them.” The project began at Taos Pueblo but now includes Taos and Río Arriba Counties as well. “The need still exists so we continue working on it,” she said. “If you want to participate, bring in an unwrapped new toy or useful item for a baby, youth, elderly or special–need citizen. Special-need kids like music, so musical instruments are great gifts for them. The elderly need socks, scarves and gloves. But anything and everything is welcome.” The Lujans have placed collection boxes at Walmart, Centinel Bank, The Taos News and the County Clerk offices. “I want to thank everyone who has helped us, and particularly Ken Blair from Sagebrush Inn and Quality Inn, for his continual support of this
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Trees and Wreaths continued from page 10
project,” said Lujan. The gift giveaway will take place on Dec. 18, time and place to be announced. For more information, call Shirley Lujan at (575) 613-0840.
500 Wishes back for the fourth year Friday Motors is bringing back its “500 Wishes for Christmas” campaign, with support from KKIT/KXMT/KKTC/KVOT and The Taos News. Local citizens are asked to bring in an unwrapped gift for a girl or boy, ages newborn to 16, to Friday Motors. For each gift, they will receive a “ticket” to put in 1 of 12 daily drawings. One ticket per gift, but there is no limit on the number of gifts you can bring. Beginning Thursday, Dec. 2 0 1 3
PEACE LOVE KNIT yarn for all occasions We carry the largest selection of yarn in Northern New Mexico!
in Northern New Mexico! 575.758.1241 . 218A Paseo del Pueblo Norte www.taosmoxie.com
CHANGE A LIFE
Tina Larkin
5, at 9:30 a.m. on KKIT, the Mountain, the first winner will be drawn. “In addition to last year’s sponsors, we are pleased to announce our new partnership with Taos Walmart and the Children Youth & Families Division of New Mexico (CYFD),” said Debbie Friday Jagers, general manager of Friday Motors. The daily prizes are all donated from various local businesses. The minimum daily prize is $100. In addition, there are a number of other gifts on the silent auction in the main showroom. The proceeds from these gifts will go to local students, ages 8 to 18, for their local sports team through the Taos Sports Alliance. An essay contest is held in February, and the winning entries will receive an approxi2 0 1 3 DATEXXX
mate $100 scholarship for their local sport. You can donate gifts, bid on auction items, and make cash donations Monday through Friday from 8 a.m. to 6 p.m. and Saturdays from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m., at Friday Motors and drop off toys at Walmart on Saturdays. Winners will be announced on KKIT, The Mountain, every morning at 9:30 a.m. with Michael Dean on FM 95.9. Drawing schedules will be posted by November 28, 2013. If you have a family or children you would like to help, provide names, phone numbers, and the names/ages/sex of the children to KKIT/KKTC/KXMT/KVOT or Friday Motors. All names will be kept confidential. For information, call (575) 758-2252 or email debbie@fridaymotors.com.
SHOP FAIR TRADE
promoting equality Fair Trade emphasizes a fair wage and safe working conditions for producers and also supports sustainable practices that minimize our environmental footprint.
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taosAglow
Take the time to help make the holidays special for others
“T
is the season for giving,” as the old saying goes. Well now is the time to keep that saying from becoming just an empty platitude, by volunteering your time with a local organization who needs your help. Whether it’s helping put food on the tables for underprivileged families with Taos Feeds Taos (see article on page 24) or putting in some time teaching Taos Living Center residents how to play Scrabble, Taos needs Tina Larkin
Taos Public Library director Shirley Fernández and her staff would love it if you could help out during the holiday season.
Taos Habitat for Humanity has a new website, but needs some help learning to update the pages. If you or someone you know, or are a high school or college student with Wordpress 3.7.1 skills, you’d be a Star Volunteer to teach them how. A student internship is available. HFHT always has volunteer opportunities, including committee spots such as the ReStore Committee, or Annual Trivia Night Fund raiser committee. For details, call (575) 758-7827.
Holy Cross Hospital Auxiliary seeks volunteers, teens (14-18) and adult men and women to serve in the hospital — gift shop, day surgery and more. Adults call (575) 758-3909 or 751-1188; Teens call 779-1884. Reading Assistance Program, seeks volunteers for the Taos Public Library, adult tutors or teens (ages 16 and older) to support students K to sixth-grade seeking help through after-school tutoring in reading
and a few requests for math help. Contact the Taos Children’s Library (575) 737-2588. Big Brothers Big Sisters of Northern New Mexico, an afterschool program in partnership with First Presbyterian Church of Taos, opens sitebased one-to-one mentoring for elementary-aged youth. Call (505) 983-8360. Birth Center Help. The Northern New Mexico Birth Center seeks volunteers for office duties, fund-raising and more. Call (575) 758-1216. Equine Spirit Sanctuary training days. Volunteers needed for general barn work and horse care. Contact ESS if interested. ruth@equinespiritsanctuary.org, (575) 758-1212. Harwood Museum of Art seeks volunteers who love art, learning and working with children for its docent training program. Contact education@harwoodmuseum.org. Nonviolenceworks Mentors needed, at 1337 Gusdorf Road. Seeking men and women to mentor 16 to 18-year-olds in Taos, Questa and Peñasco, a minimum of one hour per week. Call (575) 758-4297. Volunteer dog walkers needed. Benefits include flexible hours, exercise, new friends, and best of all, you’ll make true differences in dogs’ lives while they are awaiting their forever homes. Please call or come by Stray Hearts for more information. 758-2981 SOMOS volunteers to help Monday, Wednesday and Friday mornings to sell books and answer phones. somos@somos taos.org.
Tina Larkin
Stray Hearts is looking for volunteer dog walkers.
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your help. The holidays are a busy time for everyone, but an extra hour or two of your time every week can make a meaningful difference in the lives of many, including yourself. And volunteering your time is also a great gift to your own family, setting an example for the next generation to serve the community. Volunteering can even be a great family activity. Here is a partial list of organizations and causes that could use your help this holiday season (don’t forget the toy drives on page 38 and the Festival of Trees and Wreaths on page 10). Additional opportunities can be found each week in The Taos News.
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taosAglow
Hungry? Let the pros do the cooking isitors and locals have no doubt noticed all the lists that Taos keeps winding up on, including a top 10 placement in Money Journal’s “Most Liked U.S. Cities, another top 10 in Foder’s Travel’s “Best Solo Escapes This Winter,” and Yahoo!’s “Best Destinations for Your Christ-
V
mas Vacation.” Well, here’s another list: casual and finedining establishments in Taos where you might want to have a holiday season meal (some restaurants are even open Christmas Day). So turn off the oven and give one of these great restaurants a call to check the holiday hours (some places are breakfast and lunch only). Be sure to call ahead because not everyone keeps holiday hours and many restaurants that do require reservations.
Aceq
Antonio’s, a Taste of Mexico
480 State Road 150, Arroyo Seco (575) 776-0900; aceqrestaurant.com
122 Doña Luz, Taos (575) 751-4800; antoniosoftaos.com
Adobe Bar in the Historic Taos Inn
The Bavarian Restaurant
125 Paseo del Pueblo Norte, Taos (575) 758-2233; taosinn.com/adobe_bar.html Alley Cantina
121 Teresina Lane, Taos (575) 758-2121; alleycantina.com Amizette Inn and Restaurant
Taos SKi Valley (575) 776-2451; amizetteinn.com
Byzantium
113 Camino de la Placita, Taos (575) 751-0805 Café La Cueva
135 Paseo del Pueblo Sur, Taos (575) 758-7001; lacuevacafe.com Caffé Renato
133 Paseo del Pueblo Norte, Taos (575) 758-0244 Casa de Valdez
1401 Paseo del Pueblo Sur, Taos (575) 758-8777 Casa Los Córdovas
330 A Paseo del Pueblo Sur, Taos (575) 751-9600; casaloscordovas.com
100 Kachina Road, Taos Ski Valley (888) 205-8020; thebavarian.com
Chalupp’s Pizza
108 Siler Road, Taos (575) 758-0090
Bent Street Café and Deli
120 Bent Street, Taos (575) 758-5787; bentstreetdeli.com
Dara Thai
210 Paseo del Pueblo Sur, Taos (575) 751-3277
The Blonde Bear Tavern at the Edelweiss
De la Tierra, El Monte Sagrado
106 Sutton Place, Taos Ski Valley (575) 737-6900; blondebeartavern.com
317 Kit Carson Road, Taos (575) 737-9855; elmontesagrado.com/dining Doc Martin’s Restaurant, The Taos Inn
125 Paseo del Pueblo Norte, Taos (575) 758-1977; docmartinsrestaurant.com Dragonfly Café and Bakery, Taos
402 Paseo del Pueblo Norte, Taos (575) 737-5859; dragonflytaos.com
El Gamal
112 Doña Luz Street, Taos (575) 613-0311; elgamaltaos.com El Meze
1017 Paseo del Pueblo Norte, El Prado (575) 751-3337; elmeze.com El Taoseño Restaurant and Lounge
819 Paseo del Pueblo Sur, Taos (575) 758-4142; taoseno.com Eske’s Brew Pub and Eatery
106 Des Georges Place, Taos (575) 758-1517; eskesbrewpub.com 5 Star Burgers Tina Larkin
Red Trout al Mojo de Ajo at La Cueva Café.
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1032 Paseo del Pueblo Sur, Taos (575) 758-8484; 5starburgers.com
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The Gorge Bar and Grill
103 East Taos Plaza, Taos (575) 758-8866; thegorgebarandgrill.com Guadalajara Grill North
822 Paseo del Pueblo Norte, Taos (575) 737-0816; guadalajaragrilltaos.com Guadalajara Grill South
1384 Paseo del Pueblo Sur, Taos (575) 751-0063; guadalajaragrilltaos.com Gutiz
812 Paseo del Pueblo Norte, Taos (575) 758-1226; gutiztaos.com The Hondo Restaurant at Snakedance Condominiums
Taos Ski Valley (575) 776-1413 Hotel St. Bernard
112 Sutton Place, Taos Ski Valley (575) 776-2251; stbernardtaos.com Hunan Chinese Restaurant
1023 Paseo del Pueblo Sur, Taos (575) 751-0474; hunanstaos.com La Cocina de Taos
1541 Paseo del Pueblo Sur, Taos (575) 758-4855 Lambert’s of Taos
123 Bent Street, Taos (575) 758-1009; lambertsoftaos.com The Love Apple
803 Paseo del Pueblo Norte, Taos (575) 751-0050; theloveapple.net Mariscos Mar y Tierra Mexican Seafood Restaurant
1574 Paseo del Pueblo Sur, Ranchos de Taos (575) 758-7955 Martyrs Steakhouse
146 Paseo del Pueblo Norte, Taos (575) 751-3020; martyrs-steakhouse.com Michael’s Kitchen
304 Paseo del Pueblo Norte (575) 758-4178; michaelskitchen.com Mondo Italiano
622 Paseo del Pueblo Sur, Taos (575) 758-1329; mondoitalianos.com Mosaic Fine Dining in the Hotel La Fonda
(575) 776-8866 Purple Sage Café
1381 Paseo del Pueblo Sur, Taos (575) 751-0562 Ranchos Plaza Grill
8 Ranchos Plaza Road, Ranchos de Taos (575) 758-5788 Raw to Go
105 B Queznel, Taos (575) 613-0893 Red Diamond Restaurant at Taos Mountain Casino
(888) 946-8267 Rhoda’s Restaurant
Resort Center, Taos Ski Valley (575) 776-2291, ext. 1286 Ricky’s Restaurant
312 Paseo del Pueblo Sur, Taos (575) 758-1156 Sabroso Restaurant and Bar
470 State Road 150, Arroyo Seco (575) 776-3333; sabrosotaos.com Song’s Asian Restaurant
703 Paseo del Pueblo Sur, Taos (575) 758-3256 Station Café 3 one 6
316 Paseo del Pueblo Sur, Taos (575) 737-0316 Stella’s Italian Restaurant
112 Camino de la Placita, Taos (575) 751-0100 Sushi A La Hattori
1405 Paseo del Pueblo Norte, Taos (575) 737-5123 Taos Diner
216 B Paseo del Pueblo Sur, Taos (575) 751-1989; taosdiner.com Taos Pizza Outback
712 Paseo del Pueblo Norte, Taos (575) 758-3112; taospizzaoutback.com Tim’s Stray Dog Cantina
Old Martina’s Hall
Tiwa Kitchen Restaurant and Bakery
1114 Don Juan Valdez Lane, Taos (575) 751-1450; orlandostaos.com Pizaños
23 State Road 150, El Prado (575) 776-1050; taospizza.com Pizza Shack
6 Thunderbird Road, Taos Ski Valley 2 0 1 3 DATEXXX
—State Representative Roberto “Bobby” J. Gonzales
Taos Diner II
105 Sutton Place, Taos Ski Valley (575) 776-2894; straydogtsv.com
Orlando’s New Mexico Café
Serving as your State Representative continues to be an honor. As we take time to give thanks in this special season for Taos, I thank you, my constituents, for your years of support and activism. Together we can make Taos an even better place to call home.
908 Paseo del Puebl Norte, Taos (575) 758-2374; taosdiner.com
108 South Plaza, Taos (575) 758-7498; mosaicfinedining.com 4140 State Road 68, Ranchos de Taos (575) 758-3003; oldmartinashall.com
¡Feliz Navidad y Prospero Año!
328 Veterans Highway, Taos (entering Taos Pueblo) (575) 751-1020; tiwakitchen.com
State Representative Roberto “Bobby” J. Gonzales District 42, Democrat
Trading Post Café and Gallery
4179 State Road 68, Ranchos de Taos (575) 759-5089; tradingpostcafe.com Yu Garden
1033 J Paseo del Pueblo Sur, Taos (575) 758-7828
Paid Political Advertisement
Paid for by the Committee to Re-Elect Roberto “Bobby” J. Gonzales, Marcos Gonzales Treasurer
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taosAglow By Joan Livingston
Cook up something authentically Taos with Fayne Lutz
F
or decades Fayne Lutz wrote about food as a columnist for The Taos News. Even now, three years after her death, readers still call the newsroom about her recipes, which are published monthly as a feature in the newspaper’s Lifestyle section.
Taos Pueblo Red Chile Gravy
Cooking with red chiles is a longtime New Mexican tradition.
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11/2 to 2 pounds coarsely ground pork or beef 1 or 2 cloves garlic, minced 1/2 teaspoon salt for the meat 2 or 3 tablespoons flour (approximately) 1/2 to 2/3 cup ground red chile, medium hot blend 2 to 3 cups water or meat stock, more to
Long before moving to Taos with her husband, Raymond Lutz, she studied gourmet cooking with Michael Field and James Beard at the University of California. Lutz won $10,000 for her Hot Chinese Chicken Salad recipe in the National Chicken Cooking Contest sponsored by Tyson foods in 1974. She began a food column with the Colonial Merchant in Freehold, N.J. Then, she wrote for the Sangre de Cristo Chronicle and
1
thin teaspoon salt for the gravy, more to taste In a deep pot or skillet, cook meat with garlic until no longer pink. Do not brown. Salt. Add flour to absorb grease, 2 tablespoons or more. Stir and cook flour with meat a few minutes.
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joined The Taos News staff as its food editor and columnist. She wrote a column until December 2006. In addition, she offered gourmet cooking classes in her home and compiled three cookbooks, including “Cooking Northern New Mexico Traditional Foods,” published by The Taos News. The 20-page book, long out of print, featured local recipes. Here are three to try this holiday season.
Add ground chile and stir rapidly to coat meat evenly. Cook a few minutes as you stir. Slowly add water or meat stock, stir and cook until gravy is bubbling. Can thin with more water. Salt again and taste. Remove from heat, let stand a few minutes for flavors to absorb. Reheat later if you wish and add more water if necessary. Makes about 1 quart.
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Prune pie
New Mexico Prune Pie
crust pie. Today, the people of Taos Pueblo and of Taos create this tasty pie to serve for festive events. Add a sprinkle or two of ground cinnamon to the filling and on the top crust for authenticity. 1 unbaked 9-inch double piecrust 1 12-ounce package pitted prunes, cooked (save the juice) 1 egg, beaten 1/2 cup prune juice (from when you
Biscochitos a la Menice
flour with the eggs and shortening. 11/2 cups solid shortening 1 cup sugar 2 eggs 1 teaspoon anise seeds, mashed to release flavor 5 cups flour 1 teaspoon baking powder 1 teaspoon salt 1/2 cup cinnamon sugar for the topping (mix equal parts sugar and cinna - mon) Cream shortening, sugar and eggs. Mash
Pies, pasteles, pan dulce — nothing makes the house smell as warm and “Christmasy” on a cold Saturday afternoon as fresh baked pies or bread. Wild plums grow in profusion in the Taos area, and the Taos Pueblo people have always gathered them for drying to use as a ready source of vitamin C. Spanish cooks simply adapted the wild plum to use in this unusual two-
Menice Santistevan is a prize-winning good cook. Director of personnel and grant writer for the town of Taos, she comes to the culinary world naturally, since her mother, Tomisita, is also a fine cook. Menice’s recipe for biscochitos often wins Best of Show at the Taos County Fair. These cookies are not crisp; they are more like fine pastry. Menice says that you may add 1/4 cup liquid to this recipe, sweet wine, orange juice or brandy, but it will make the cookies crisp and hard. Yes, it will take a lot of effort to combine the
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cooked the prunes) cup sugar 1 tablespoon lemon juice Dash salt Place cooked prunes in bottom crust. Combine egg, juice, sugar and salt and pour over the prunes. Top with second crust. Brush top crust with milk and sprinkle with sugar for a crisp crust. Bake at 425 degrees for 40 minutes.
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In addition, she offered gourmet cooking classes in her home and compiled three cookbooks, including “Cooking Northern New Mexico Traditional Foods.”
anise seeds with back of spoon to lightly crush. Sift together flour, baking powder and salt. Stir together the flour and the shortening, sugar and egg mixture. This is very tedious, and be sure and work in all the flour mix. Roll out on a lightly floured board and cut into fancy shapes (triangles or squares). Sprinkle each cookie with cinnamon sugar. Bake in preheated 325-degree oven until golden (about 12 minutes). Makes 5-6 dozen. Can be made ahead of time and frozen.
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taosAglow By Rob Hawley
Biscochitos:
A Taos holiday tradition
O
n Dec. 11, Taos Herb Company will be hosting its annual Christmas holiday biscochito contest. In the spirit of fun and the upcoming holidays, Taos Herb invites the venerable and experienced cookie tasters from the Ancianos Senior Center to judge the many variations of biscochitos from all over Taos County. Based on their highly experienced biscochito taste buds, these seniors will select the most perfectly prepared holiday biscochito. While many cultures have a traditional shortbread recipe, the biscochito, which has its roots in the Spanish explorers who came to New Mexico in the 16th century, is uniquely delicious. At that time they were called Mantecosos, which translates to “Buttery ones” or Mantecados, which refers to butter shortbread. Here in New Mexico biscochitos are commonly thought of as the Christmas cookie, but this yummy treat can be found at many other celebrations such as weddings, quinceañeras, baptisms and other celebrations through out the year. The current biscochito maintains the quality of having that melt-in-your-mouth goodness that comes from being made with butter or lard, and being laced with
Biscochitos
Here is a sample recipe (Makes about 4-5 dozen cookies.) 1 lb. butter, lard or shortening 11/2 cups sugar 2 eggs 2 tsp. anise seed 1/2 cup water 6 cups unbleached flour 1 tbs. baking powder 1 tsp. salt 1/4 cup sugar mixed with 1-2 tsp. cinnamon for dredging Sift together flour, baking powder and salt. Cream the butter, lard or shortening with sugar and anise seeds.
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In separate bowl beat eggs until light and fluffy and add to the creamed mixture. Add dry ingredients and water to form stiff dough. (Add more water as necessary.) Form into a ball, wrap in plastic wrap and refrigerate overnight. The next day, preheat the oven to 350 degrees. Have ready two ungreased cookie sheets. Let dough stand at room temperature till soft enough to roll out; divide into quarters and roll to 1/8” thickness. Cut out with 2 1/2”-3” cutter and bake 10-15 minutes, or until cookies are pale blond on top, golden on bottom. Sprinkle with sugar/cinnamon while still warm.
A table full of tasty entries at the 2011 bicochito contest at Taos Herb. the palette-pleasing taste of anise seed. In fact, it is the anise seed (Pimpinella anisum) that distinguishes the biscochito from other shortbread cookies, but most biscochito cooks know that other secret ingredients may be included to make their recipe uniquely different. Anise seeds have a distinct licoricelike flavor. It is interesting to note that the aromatic seeds of anise are useful to relax tummy cramps and as a tea for colicky babies. It is also an old-time remedy for hiccups. Anise is related to carrots, celery and our own Osha de la sierra. Following in our annual tradition, Taos
ta os n e w s . c om / a g l ow
J.R. Logan
Herb Company will invite 10 volunteers from Ancianos Senior Center to be judges for the contest. If you would like to enter the contest, pick up an entry form from Taos Herb Company in the Cruz Alta Shopping Center and return it by the deadline on Tuesday, Dec. 10. The contest will take place at Taos Herb Company on Dec. 11 at 1:30 p.m. Cookies must be brought to Taos Herb Company on the day of the contest by 10 a.m. The winner of the contest will receive a $100 shopping spree at Taos Herb Company. Call Elva or Deatria at (575) 758-1991 ext. 203 for more information. 2 0 1 3
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Holiday Greetings FROM THE STAFF AND BOARD OF THE
TAOS CENTER FOR THE ARTS For over 60 years the TCA has ENRICHED, INSPIRED and ENTERTAINED TaoseĂąos young and old with programs and events in the visual, media and performing arts; and 2014 promises another fun and creative year. To stay in the know visit tcataos.org for current events. To all our members, volunteers, sponsors, supporters, renters and attendees a special thank you and happy holidayâ&#x20AC;Ś we couldnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t do what we do without you.
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taosAglow By Cindy Brown
Decorating for the holidays, Taos-style
C
hristmas in Taos is infused with tradition. Lights and pageantry, set amid snowy and mountainous beauty, have caused Taos to be named as one of the top Christmas destinations in the world by several travel publications, including Travel and Leisure magazine. After sunset, the streets are lit with farolitos. In other parts of the state, these paper bags with candles are called luminarias. Local educator and historian Arsenio Córdova explains that before there were paper bags, people lit the way with little lanterns called farolitos. When candles in paper bags replaced the lanterns, they continued to be called farolitos here. In Taos, the word luminaria is used to describe the small bonfires seen in courtyards outside homes and businesses, during events like the Lighting of Ledoux (Dec. 7, from 5 to 7 p.m.). The historic Blumenschein House will be among those decorated with farolitos for the event; cookies and cider will be served. Bonfires on Bent will follow on Dec. 14, from 10 a.m. to 7 p.m. For those wanting to learn about the winter customs of Northern New Mexico, Córdova is offering a class, starting Dec. 16. For more information, call (575) 758-4020. Another tradition that continues is the cutting of Christmas trees from local forests. El Salto Rancher Erminio Martínez says he went by buggy to cut a Christmas tree, when he was a child. He recalls that often the presents under the tree were simple like a new handmade shirt. He remembers the weeks between Thanksgiving and Christmas as a time of prayer and families coming home to enjoy the food that had been raised all year on the farms
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A chile pepper ornament, made by Patricia Reza. Courtesy Photo
and ranches. Luisa Mylet, who was raised in Taos and is now the manager of the Martínez Hacienda, remembers evergreen branches decorating doors and windows of homes, as families were reunited. Mylet says that the celebration of Christmas at the Martínez Hacienda includes Memories in Lights, the opportunity to purchase an ornament in honor of a friend or family member, to be displayed on the Hacienda tree. This year, the holiday season officially kicks off with the lighting of the Christmas tree on the Plaza on Friday, Dec. 6 from 4 to 6 p.m. This is the 27th annual Yuletide tree lighting. It will include caroling, entertainment by local musicians, along with cookies, hot chocolate and an appearance by Mr. and Mrs. Claus. To decorate your tree, handmade Christmas ornaments can be found at Santos y Mas in Arroyo Seco. Patricia Reza, who is both owner and artist, says she looks for Christmas decorations by local artists that reflect Taos traditions. Long-standing crafts of Taos have been captured as landscape scenes on tin, hand-carved santos, and as paintings on gourds and chiles. She features Michael Salazar’s miniature carved saints and angels. Reza says that in New Mexico, artisans began carving saints for churches when they couldn’t get them from Spain or Mexico. She says the artists also carved toys for their decorate continues on page 50
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Because we know you want to live here.
A great event inspires more than just the attendees. It inspires the entire community.
At U.S. Bank, we are committed to making the communities in which we work and live a better place. Our commitment means supporting the programs and organizations that enrich the quality of life for our neighbors.
Find all the Taos MLS real estate listings with one click
Proud to support <insert organization name here> HAPPY HOLIDAYS xxxxxxxxxx
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BranchMain Nameoffice Taos Branch Address 120 W Plaza Phone Number 575-737-3540
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taosAglow
Tin work, like these stars from Taos Tin Works is another craft tradition in our area. Courtesy Photo
One of Rose Tollardo-Valdez’ angels was the first ornament to be placed on the Christmas tree from the Carson National Forest that went to the White House some years ago.
A Christmas retablo ornament by Lynn Garlick. Courtesy Photo
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decorate continued from page 48
children at Christmas. Locally made decorations are also available at the Arroyo Seco Mercantile and the Taos Community Center’s Co-op in the old Taos Courthouse on the Plaza. Tin angels by Rose Tollardo-Valdez are featured at the Co-op. Rose has been making angels from tin for more than 40 years. She began cutting shapes from tin cans and has expanded to make ornaments and earrings from copper, brass and silver. She says there is a long history of working in tin in Northern New Mexico. People made farolitos, light sconces, and other functional and beautiful items from tin cans. One of Rose Tollardo-Valdez’ angels was the first ornament to be placed on the Christmas tree from the Carson National Forest that went to the White House some years ago. These original ornaments are a way to capture the light and beauty of the winter season in a way that is truly authentic to Taos. g l oo sw n e w s T e m p otamoas gn ae zwi sn . ec/ ot mh /e a ta
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Unicorn 758-4106 School Supply
311 Paseo del Pueblo Sur, Taos 0QFO .POEBZ 'SJEBZ t OPPO 4BUVSEBZ 2 0 1 3
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taosAglow
Courtesy Photo
Twirl Toystore and Playspace is always fun, but it totally comes alive during the holiday season.
Watch the holidays light up at Twirl A special schedule of events has been prepared to coincide with all the lightfilled festivities taking place downtown.
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M
agical light, spreading enchantment through the wintery darkness, is the inspiration behind this yearâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s holiday celebrations at Twirl Toystore and Playspace. The courtyard behind the store has been transformed into a world aglow with lights and lanterns hanging from every cor-
Courtesy Photo
Face painting and holiday treats are some of the things kids will love this holiday season at Twirl.
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ner, a giant twinkling wreath and brightly lit Christmas trees filled with sparkling ornaments. Mesmerizing shadow puppets form the centerpiece of a specially commissioned window display by Nina Silfverberg and the storeâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s fountain will twinkle and delight. Children can grab a special holiday scavenger hunt that helps them explore the exhibit with a prize at the end, while school children can visit on field trips and take part in a special holiday craft. A special schedule of events has been prepared to coincide with all the light-filled twirl continues on page 54
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Taos Crating Co., a 2nd generation family business, wishes you
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taosAglow
twirl continued from page 52
“Community is at the heart of what we do here at Twirl. And the holidays are the perfect time to show our customers how much we appreciate them.” Molly McMullin
festivities taking place downtown this holiday season. “Festivals like Lighting of Ledoux and Bonfires on Bent Street are such wonderful local traditions for yuletide revelers and we wanted to come up with some fun ways for kids to prepare for them,” says Nikki Ross, Twirl’s marketing director. A series of Saturday morning workshops has been planned: Dec. 7 is “Holiday Lanterns,” when children can craft lanterns for Lighting Of Ledoux that evening. Dec. 14 is “Glow in the Dark,” in which kids will work on making glow jars for Bonfires on Bent Street. And Dec. 21 will be “Cocoa Craft,” when children can decorate a mug for La Noche on the Plaza, or as a gift for someone special. Children love to recognize their teachers during the holidays, so this year Twirl is hosting a special Twirl Teacher Gift-Making Party on Sunday, Dec. 15, from 3 to 5 p.m. to support Taos Feeds Taos. Guest crafters will be on hand to guide children as they make beautiful gifts, wrapping paper and gift
Santa Claus poses with some children at Twirl. cards for their teachers. There is no charge for the workshop, all materials are free, but participants are asked to bring a non-perishable food item for the Taos Feeds Taos drive which Twirl is supporting with donation boxes in the store as well as the profits from their Festival of Trees tree. And finally, Twirl’s DIY Holiday Make-It Space will be set up daily from 2 to 4 p.m. for
Courtesy Photo
A group of customers get in on the fun at Twirl.
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Courtesy Photo
kids to stop by and make gift tags, holiday cards and more. All Twirl events and activities are free, but participants are encouraged to bring a non-perishable food item if they can. Throughout the holidays, Twirl has planned other ways to give back to the community that supports them all year. There will be complimentary refreshments, gift-wrapping and daily giveaways as well as exclusive customer promotions. “Community is at the heart of what we do here at Twirl,” says Molly McMullin. “And the holidays are the perfect time to show our customers how much we appreciate them.”
Courtesy Photo
Family’s enjoy the festive atmosphere at Twirl during the holidays. 2DATEXXX 0 1 3
The Spirit of the Season A portion of all the ad proceeds in this section will be donated to the non-profits listed below: Business/Organization Name.................................................................................................................. Non-Profit Of Choice Arroyo Seco Mercantile ..........................................................................................................................................................Taos Men’s Shelter Chevron Mining ...................................................................................................................................................................Habitat for Humanity Coffee Spot .............................................................................................................................................................. Stray Hearts Animal Shelter Committee to Elect Matthew Vigil ............................................................................................................................ Stray Hearts Animal Shelter Committee to Elect Roberto “Bobby” Gonzales .......................................................................................................... Talpa Community Center Community Against Violence ................................................................................................................................. Community Against Violence Cottam Walker Ford ............................................................................................................................................... Community Against Violence Cruz Alta Plaza ....................................................................... ............................................................................................. NonViolence Works Enchanted Florist ................................................................................................................................................... Community Against Violence Enchanted Forest ..................................................................................................................................................... Stray Hearts Animal Shelter Ennui Gallery ............................................................................................................................................................................................ Hi Brite Francesca’s ............................................................................................................................................................ Community Against Violence Friday Motors ....................................................................................................................................................................High Altitude Athletics Garden & Soul .............................................................................................................................................................................Taos Land Trust Henry Valencia...............................................................................................................................................................................................ARC Jack Leustig Imaging ............................................................................................................................................. Community Against Violence Jitters...................................................................................................................................................................... Community Against Violence John Dunn House Shops ........................................................................................................................................................ Dreamtree Project Kit Carson Electric..................................................................................................................................................................... Taos Feeds Taos Knight Financial.........................................................................................................................................................................................PFLAG Kokoman Liquors ......................................................................................................................................................................St. Jude Hospital Lamberts .................................................................................................................................................................................. Taos Art Museum Leigh Gusterson ..................................................................................................................................................... Community Against Violence Moby Dickens......................................................................................................................................................... Community Against Violence Moxie......................................................................................................................................................................................Taos Men’s Shelter Mudd n Flood ........................................................................................................................................................................... Taos Feeds Taos Petree Nursery.......................................................................................................................................................................... The Shared Table Pieces .............................................................................................................................................................................. Taos Search & Rescue Presbyterian Hospital .....................................................................................................Breast Cancer Foundation at Presbyterian Foundation Randall Lumber & Hardware ...............................................................................................................................................Habitat for Humanity Reata Fine Art........................................................................................................................................................... Stray Hearts Animal Shelter Sunshades of Taos ............................................................................................................................................................ Lions Club Kids Sight Taos Center for the Arts ............................................................................................................................................... Taos Center for the Arts Taos County Chamber of Commerce.......................................................................................................................................... Bridges Project Taos Crating ........................................................................................................................................................... Community Against Violence Taos Dental Group.................................................................................................................................................. Community Against Violence Taos Folk ......................................................................................................................................................................................Youth Heartline Taos Mountain Casino............................................................................................................................................ Community Against Violence Taos Physical Therapy .......................................................................................................................................... Community Against Violence Taos Tack ....................................................................................................................................................................... Equine Spirit Sanctuary Taos Tin Works ...................................................................................................................................................................... Nonviolence Works The Historic Taos Inn...................................................................................................................................................................Taos Land Trust The Ranch at Taos........................................................................................................................................................ Taos Feral Feline Friends Tierra Wood Stoves ................................................................................................................................................................Taos Men’s Shelter Town of Taos ...................................................................................................................................................................... Friends of the Library Twirl ........................................................................................................................................................................................... Taos Feeds Taos Unicorn Supply Co ...................................................................................................................................................... American Cancer Society US Bank ..................................................................................................................................................................... Ensuenos Y Los Angelitos Walmart .................................................................................................................................................................... Stray Hearts Animal Shelter Wilder Nightingale .................................................................................................................................................................Taos Men’s Shelter Wolfgang’s Spa Works ..........................................................................................................................................................Rotary International
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taosAglow By Jim O’Donnell
Torchlight Parades a shining tradition
I
f you haven’t actually seen a wintertime torchlight parade you’ve surely seen a photo. A common sight at ski resorts for many years, these late evening events light up the slopes and the snow as lines of skiers make a run down a mountain’s face holding one or two bright
Courtesy Taos Ski Valley/Seth Bullington Photo
The torchlight and fireworks at Taos Ski Valley.
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flares. Meanwhile fireworks burst above. The effect is one of a red, orange and sometimes blue snake made of light swishing over the frozen face of the mountains and down into the crowds below. It is pretty darn cool to be honest, especially for photographers. But who runs these parades, where did they come from and most importantly, don’t the participants catch fire? Well, the answer to that last one is clearly “no.” They don’t catch on fire. Walt Foley, deputy general manager in charge of mountain operations at Red River Ski Area explained that the parade participants carry a 20-minute safety flare specifically designed for this kind of activity. “It burns longer but it doesn’t get nearly as hot as normal flares so people can hold on to it and it’s safe,” he said. The torchlight parade is not anything new to Red River. It began over 30 years ago in fact. “Red River wanted to do something special for our visitors,” Foley explained. “You can see the parade from all over town. It’s just a plain fun and beautiful event to get people out socializing.” The Red River torchlight parade takes place on the black diamond trail known as “The Face.” Running every Saturday night at 7 p.m. and again on Christmas Eve and New Year’s Eve, the parades draw anywhere from 20 to 50 participants and hundreds of spectators. “Typically it’s our employees out there as well as some locals. But really, anyone who is good enough to ski The Face can join it. That said, it certainly is for advanced skiers,” said Foley. Each Saturday evening parade is accompanied by a five-minute fireworks display. The larger events — Christmas Eve, New Year’s Eve and Spring Break — bring out the big guns with with 15-minute firework displays being the norm. Visitors to Red River mingle with locals at the base of The Face for the event. An hour prior, rail rides is set up on the hill for the wild ones to hike up a bit and cruise down. Taos Ski Valley likewise has a torchlight parade with a little history. “Wow. You know, I’ve been here over 30 years and we’ve had the torchlight parade that entire time. I remember it from the time I was a kid,” said Adriana Blake,
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But who runs these parades, where did they come from and most importantly, don’t the participants catch fire? Well, the answer to that last one is clearly “no.” They don’t catch on fire. marketing director at Taos Ski Valley. “Way back when there was a volunteer at the ski valley named Clifford Chase. I don’t think anyone would dispute that the original torchlight parade was his inspiration,” Blake said. “Ernie Blake liked the idea but Clifford made it happen. He ran it until he couldn’t ski anymore.” The Taos Ski Valley parade is skied almost completely by staff, 60 in all, and “sometimes a local guy or two who is really good,” Blake said. Being really good is important for the Ski Valley run because the parade goes down Snake Dance, a notoriously difficult run — and they do it in the dark. “We all put on our old clothes for the run,” said Blake. “Those flares can burn holes in your clothes every now and again.” So maybe they do catch on fire? Well, not quite. The torchlight parades in Taos Ski Valley take place on Christmas Eve starting at 6 p.m. and New Year’s Eve starting at 6 p.m. The New Year’s Eve run ends with fireworks. March 8, 2014 will see a special torchlight parade at Taos Ski Valley when the skiers will celebrate the birthday of TSV founder Ernie Blake. That particular display will take off at 7 p.m. and wind its way to the base of Chair Lift #5 — and then the fireworks kick off. It will be hard to miss it from anywhere up in the valley. That said, the best seats in the house are on the deck of the St. Bernard hotel, slurping a spiked hot chocolate. Angel Fire Resorts also host torchlight parades on Christmas Eve and New Year’s Eve. The Christmas Eve run starts at 6 p.m., runs approximately two hours and includes an appearance by Mr. and Mrs. Claus. The family oriented event winds up with an impressive fireworks display. On New Year’s Even the parade runs from 6 to 7 p.m. and concludes with yet another fireworks display to celebrate the New Year. The torchlight parades at Taos-area ski areas are a winter activity not to be missed.
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2013
Festival of Trees & Wreaths
Sponsor Company
Nonprofit Recipient
Sponsor Company
Nonprofit Recipient
Mitchell Theatres Storyteller 7................................................ Taos Men’s Shelter
Mooncat Fiber.............................................................................. Horse Sanctuary
Taos Ski Valley, Inc................................................Bridges Project for Education
Burning Star Graphics .........NM Research & Investigation of the Paranormal
Wolfgang Spa Works ............................................ Community Against Violence
Kit Carson Electric ............................Rivers & Birds Educational Organization
Taos Life Style featuring Sleep Sanctuary..........Rocky Mountain Youth Corps
Kit Carson Telecom.................Ensuenos Y los Angelitos Development Center
Moxie ................................................................................... Habitat for Humanity
Kit Carson Propane........................................................ Not Forgotten Outreach
Not Forgotten Outreach ....................................... Taos Chapter Healing Waters
Cottam’s Ski Shop ............................................................... Habitat for Humanity
KTAOS & LUNA ................................................... Four Corners Animal League
The Gorge Bar & Grill............................................................ Great Chefs of Taos
Daniels Insurance.................................................Rocky Mountain Youth Corps
DMC Broadcasting................................................Bridges Project for Education
Enterprise Rent-a-car........................................... Community Against Violence
Taos Mountain Casino...............................................Taos Pueblo Senior Center
Community Against Violence ............................ Community Against Violence
Taos Mountain Casino......................................................Taos Pueblo Headstart
Taos Health Systems...................................................... Cancer Support Services
Taos Mountain Casino................................................... Taos Pueblo Day School
Taos Clay/Logan Wannamaker..............................................Anansi Day School
Taos Mountain Casino.................................................... Oonah-Nah Art Center
Red Cat Melissiana .................................................... Strayhearts Animal Shelter
Domino’s Pizza.................................................................Taos Municipal Schools
Beall’s .................................................................................. Taos Special Olympics
Metta Theatre ....................................................................................Metta Theatre
Taos Tin Works................................................................... Habitat for Humanity
Amizette Inn ...................................... Our Lady of Sorrows Holy Trinity Parish
Money Now Installment Loans ......................Children Youth & Families Dept
Hill Top Roofing ..........................................................................Café Scientifique
Taos Mountain Energy Bars.............................................. Field Institute of Taos
Jose Marquez.................................................................. Taos Foursquare Church
La Posada de Taos.................................................................... DreamTree Project
Gearing Up Bicycle Shop................................................... Field Institute of Taos
Santos Y Mas.....................................................Children Youth & Families Dept
Taos Cyclery ........................................................................ Field Institute of Taos
Nothside Health & Fitness Center ..............Taos Integrated School of the Arts
The Good Sole and Taos Mountain Outfitters... Taos Mountain Balloon Rally
Santos Y Mas.....................................................Children Youth & Families Dept
Barb Wiard ........................................................................Golden Willow Retreat
Wayne Rutherford Construction....................Children Youth & Families Dept
Coca Cola of Santa Fe ......................................... Community Against Violence
Taos Onstage ...........................................................................Nonviolence Works
El Monte Sagrado Living Resort & Spa Vista Grande High School Art Project
Substance ....................................................................................... Youth Heartline
Moby Dickens Bookshop ........................................................ Dreamtree Project
Jane Compton, OD........................................................... Anansi Charter School
Twirl Toystore & Playspace ......................................................... Taos Feeds Taos
Strayhearts Animal Shelter....................................... Strayhearts Animal Shelter
Walmart ......................................................................................... Taos Feeds Taos
Chevron Mining Questa Mine ......................................... Habitat for Humanity
The Taos News ...................................................... Taos Community Foundation
Garden & Soul ............................................................................. Taos Land Trust
The Recycle Ranger .................................................................. Dreamtree Project
Metric Motors ............................................................ Strayhearts Animal Shelter
Taos Entrepreneurial Network ............................................... Dreamtree Project
Proper Care Home Service/Century 21 Success ...................... Taos Feeds Taos
Heritage Trust Company of New Mexico.......... Taos Community Foundation
Wanda Lucero Insurance Agency....................... Taos Community Foundation
Children Youth & Families Dept....................Children Youth & Families Dept
THE TAOS NEWS
For more information call The Taos County Chamber of Commerce at 751-8800
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taosAglow By Virginia L. Clark
Tina Larkin
Memories in Lights, at the Hacienda de los Martínez, honors the lives of loved ones past and present.
Historic and cultural holidays at Taos museums
J
ust when it seems like we can’t squeeze one more thing on our to-do lists, the museums of Taos beckon, promising more than a little respite from the maddening crowd. Be kind to yourself and put these gems at the top of your holiday lists.
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E. L. Blumenschein Home & Museum
be open.
222 Ledoux St., Taos (575) 758-0505
Governor Bent House and Museum
Holiday hours: Daily, 10 a.m.-4 p.m. Admission $8, discounts for seniors, children and students. s Lighting of Ledoux Holiday Walk, Saturday (Dec. 7), 5-7 p.m. sparkles with candlelit farolitos and blazes with pitchwood luminarias; refreshments in the courtyard. The museum gift shop, East Studio Gallery and Merry Heart Antiques & Fine Things will
117 Bent St., Taos laplaza.org/art/museums_bent.php3 Winter hours: daily 10 a.m.- 4 p.m. Admission: $1 adult, $.50 children. Home of New Mexico’s first American governor, Charles Bent was an early trader, trapper and mountain man. The museum contains 19th century artifacts of the area as well as works by Taos artists.
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Harwood Museum of Art 238 Ledoux St., Taos (575) 758-2052; harwoodmuseum.org Winter hours: Tuesday-Saturday, 10 a.m.-5 p.m., Sunday, noon-5 p.m. Closed Christmas Day and New Yearâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Day. Admission $10; $8 seniors/students with ID, free to locals Sundays. s Dec. 6, 7 p.m., The Big Read Film: â&#x20AC;&#x153;Hecho en Mexico/Made in Mexicoâ&#x20AC;?; free. s Dec. 7, 5-7 p.m. Lighting Ledoux â&#x20AC;&#x201D; join the museums, galleries and boutiques on Ledoux Street for a block party open to pedestrians only, lit by luminarias and farolitos. Cookies, hot chocolate, hot cider and Father Winter at the Harwood. s Dec. 14-15, 5 p.m., TCMG Celebrates Sagittarius composers Beethoven, Berlioz, Joseph Jongen and Laupheimer, plus Harwoodâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s 90th Anniversary with Beethovenâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s â&#x20AC;&#x153;Archduke Trioâ&#x20AC;? and more. Tickets $20, $16 members, $12 children under 16. See taoschambermusicgroup. org.
La Hacienda de los MartĂnez 708 Hacienda Way, Taos (575) 758-1000 Holiday hours: Daily, 10 a.m.-4 p.m. Admission $8, discounts for seniors, children and students. s Memories in Lights, Sunday (Dec. 8), 3-5 p.m. officially starts the Christmas season with a tree lighting, entertainment and light refreshments. A drawing for a handmade quilt is at 4 p.m.
Millicent Rogers Museum 1504 Millicent Rogers Road, Taos (575) 758-2462; millicentrogers.org Winter hours: Tuesday-Sundays, 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Closed Mondays. Museum Ambassadors Program admits Taos County residents free with ID. Non-resident admission: adults $10, ages 60-and-over $8, students 16-21 w/ ID and military $6, ages 6-16 $2, under age 6 free; Tour groups of 10 or more, call for discount. s Holiday Fiesta for families is Saturday (Dec. 7), from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. This exciting event features dozens of hands-on activities and performances from dancing to retablo-making for children ages 4-12; free.
Kit Carson Home and Museum 113 Kit Carson Road, Taos 2 0 1 3
(575) 758-4945 kitcarsonhomeand museum.com Holiday hours: Daily, 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. through February (closed Christmas and Dec. 31-Jan. 1). Step back into the 1850s at Taosâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; oldest museum with: Guided living history interpretive tours, newly renovated buildings (now more accessible), a large gift store and book store, new exhibits and storyboards and an award winning history channel video.
A Magical Christmas Adventure Awaits You...
Taos Art Museum at Fechin House 227 Paseo del Pueblo Norte, just North of Kit Carson Park (575) 758-2690, ext 101; taosartmuseum. org Winter hours: Tuesday-Sunday, 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Admission, $8 adults, $7 seniors, $5 students, free for children (under 12); groups of 10 or more, $6 each. Free to Taos residents on Sundays. Fechin studio, grounds, and museum store, and parking are free. December discounts in the Museum Store include Christmas-themed toys, ornaments, and decorations, plus jewelry. s Dec. 11, 5:30 p.m.: Special holiday Learning-the-Collections program offers â&#x20AC;&#x153;Watching the Ballgameâ&#x20AC;? by Oscar Edmund Berninghaus (American artist, 1874-1952) in a more intimate examination of the painting and its stories than viewers can get in any exhibition. Free for members at the Supporter level and above, $4 for members at the Individual, Family, or Friend levels; $8 for nonmembers. Holiday refreshments and conversation in a small group of 20. RSVP required (575) 758-2690, ext 101. s Dec. 14, 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.: A special holiday celebration including refreshments and an extra 10 percent off everything in the museum Store: At 2 p.m., fourth to sixth graders enjoy a special â&#x20AC;&#x153;Off the Wallâ&#x20AC;? holiday art event to see artwork up close, inspiring storytelling and imagination. Membersâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; children free admission; $4 for nonmembers. RSVP required due to limit of 10, at (575) 758-2690, extension 101. Housing the art of early 20th-century Taos, the Taos Art Museum at Fechin House is set in the historic home Russian artist Nicolai Fechin built for his family between 1927-1933. Fechin carved and shaped the adobe buildings into a harmonic marriage of Russian, American Indian and Spanish motifs. The collections feature paintings by the masters of the Taos Society of Artists (1915 -1927) and their followers, who established Taos as a premier destination for American art.
Ski Enchanted Forest Under The Warm Glow Of Candlelight. Christmas Luminaria Tour, December 25th!
Day lodge, Full Rental Shop, PSIA lessons, Snack Bar, Ski Wear and Supplies. Spend the night at Enchanted Forest in our yurt! 30km Groomed Ski Trails LN %PH 5SBJMT LN 4OPXTIPF 5SBJMT
NJMFT &BTU PG 3FE 3JWFS PO /. t
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EnchantedForestXC.com 59
taosAglow
Rick Romancito
Taos Pueblo residents will take part in either the Matachines (pictured) or the Deer Dance on Christmas Day.
A holiday apart at Taos Pueblo
O
ne might argue that if you’ve never been to Taos Pueblo on Christmas Eve, you have never been to Taos. It really is an event that everyone should experience. Around dusk, the Procession of the Virgin Mary begins outside San Geronimo Church, led by a group of Pueblo men carrying hunting rifles, which are Spectators stay warm near discharged
large bonfires (and also by dressing as warmly as possible — Christmas Eve is often one of the coldest nights of the year).
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into the air every few seconds. Joining the procession, which follows the Virgin, are Native drummers, dancers and men and women singing hymns. Spectators stay warm near large bonfires (and also by dressing as warmly as possible — Christmas Eve is often one of the coldest nights of the year). For more celebrations, visitors can return on Christmas Day for either the Deer Dance or the Matachines. Call Taos Pueblo at (575) 758-1028 for times as the date approaches. Then, on Jan. 1, New Year’s Day, the Pueblo will host the Turtle Dance (tentively at sunrise) and the Buffalo or Deer Dance on Jan. 6. Admission is free to these events but the Pueblo asks that you follow a few
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rules: no cameras, cell phones or any type of recording devices are allowed at Christmas Eve or during any other religious ceremony. The holiday season is also a great time to visit the shops at Taos Pueblo, which offer some of the more unique gift ideas you’ll find. It’s also a great time to learn about the history, culture and art that make Taos Pueblo a UNESCO World Heritage Site and a National Historic Landmark. Winter hours at Taos Pueblo are MondaySaturday, 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. and Sunday, 8:30 a.m. to 4 p.m. All purchases are tax-free and many shops accept credit cards. For more information, call the Taos Pueblo Tourism Office at (575) 758-1028 or visit taospueblo.com.
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We wish you a happy holiday season and a healthy new year.
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1010 Spruce St. EspaĂąola, NM www.phs.org/espanola
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taosAglow By Teresa Dovalpage
Las Posadas and Los Pastores, longtime community traditions
T
he holidays are here. The sound of Christmas carols and the smell of biscochitos and hot chocolate fill the air. The streets get lined with farolitos (traditional candles set inside paper bags and weighted with sand) and there is a festive atmosphere all around. Just like previous years, there will be several reenactments of Las Posadas, the beloved Spanish play that tells the story of Joseph and Mary as they look for lodging in Bethlehem before Jesus is born. The posadistas, also called pilgrims (peregrinos), go to different houses each night and are sent away, until the last night, when they are finally given shelter?posada. The celebration concludes with songs and food for all the participants. Las Posadas are held during nine nights, usually from Dec. 16-24, in different churches and parishes around the county, including Arroyo Seco and the Ranchos de Taos Church.
Los pastores performances n Friday, Dec.
20 at St. Anne’s Parish Hall in Santa Fe after the 6 p.m. Mass and Las Posadas. It will start at approximately 7 p.m. n Saturday, Dec. 21 at Our Lady
of Guadalupe Church in Taos at 7 p.m.
n Sunday, Dec. 22 at San Juan Bautista
Parish in Ohkay Owingeh (aka San Juan) at 2 p.m. n
Saturday, Dec. 28 at the Sangre de
Cristo Parish in San Luis, Colorado at 7 p.m.
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The shepherds’ journey This holiday season, like every one before it, there will also be presentations of Los Pastores. The plot of the traditional Christmas play revolves around a group of shepherds who want to worship Jesus at the manger but Lucifer — el diablo — tries to stop them. “During their journey, the shepherds encounter bad weather and struggle with the human weaknesses of those traveling along the way,” said Kathy Córdova, who is in charge of public relations for the play. “Los Pastores also includes music, which adds a rich dimension to the production.” The Córdova family and the play’s cast, under the sponsorship of Sangre de Cristo Liturgies, have performed this production for 33 years in New Mexico, Colorado and even in Mexico. Performances take place in churches, schools, museums and other locations.
Tina Larkin
Last year’s Mary and Joseph in Los Posades.
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“The play, of course, has been produced for hundreds of years,” Córdova said. “But we, as a family, have helped to keep it alive here.” Cast members progress in roles as they continue with their participation. “This is done to ensure that the play will go on throughout the years,” Córdova said. “Our current cast members come from Albuquerque, Española, Taos and San Luis, Colorado.”
A legacy from medieval times According to Arsenio Córdova, who co-directs the play with his daughter Tessa Córdova, Los Pastores has its origin in a European medieval nativity play. “It was first produced in the middle ages, at a time when the Catholic Church used short plays to enact simple versions of Bible stories,” he said. “It was a way of teaching basic religious concepts to people who could not read.” The play was brought to America and presented in Mexico around 1530. Later on, it traveled via El Camino Real to Northern New Mexico. It has preserved the old Spanish language, though both Arsenio and Kathy Córdova admit that some words and expressions have changed over the years. Yet the message and the plot are still faithful to the original version.
Credit
Los Pastores.
Los Pastores in Taos The first representation of Los Pastores in Taos was staged by Arsenio Córdova’s mother, Josephine Córdova, who used to be a school principal in El Prado. “She would get all the parents and children involved,” he said. “Lots of people got to participate. It was a big event.” Córdova himself composed most of the music used currently in the play. The song that starts “Bienvenidos, pastores, al portal de Belén” (welcome, shepherds, to the manger at Bethlehem), has become a classic Christmas villancico within the Hispanic community. They also sing traditional Spanish songs and old lullabies. “The play opens up with an alabado, a religious hymn that was not part of the original play but I wanted to use it because of its beautiful message,” says Córdova. The alabado begins with these verses: 2 0 1 3 DATEXXX
Tina Larkin
Tina Larkin
The devil is defeated in Los Pastores.
A scene from the 2012 Las Posades.
“A la madrugada nació el niño Dios y al amanecer nos dio luz el sol” (The Christ Child was born during the night and at dawn the sun brought us light.) The play lasts for about an hour. It has been a family affair for a long time, says Córdova. His son William plays the guitar and his daughter Tessa plays Gila, a young shepherdess. “I play Bartolo, the lazy shepherd,” he said. “And Kathy played the Blessed Mother for many years.” But with a cast of more than 30 characters, the community gets involved and plays
a vital role. Córdova estimates that over the years around 500 people have performed in Los Pastores. “Jerry Padilla (the late Taos News Spanish editor) played El Ermitaño (the Hermit) and Lucifer many times,” he said. “Though the event was started and is still organized by my family, it really belongs to the entire community of Taos.” Córdova insists on the religious meaning of Los Pastores. “It isn’t just entertainment,” he said. “It is a prayer that takes the form of a play. The idea is to encourage people to meditate about the journey of their own souls.”
T e m p ota mo as gn ae zw i sn. ec /ot mh /e a gtal oo ws n e w s
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taosAglow
Calendar of Events Ongoing Sundays s NFL Sunday Fun Day every Sunday (until Feb.. 2) at The Alley Cantina, 121 Teresina Lane, Taos. alleycantina.com s Soul Sunday Brunch with DJ Miles Bunny every Sunday from noon to 4 p.m. at Taos Mesa Brewing, 20 ABC Taos Mesa Road, Taos. Enjoy modern and classic soul tunes. taosmesabrewing.com s Navagantes del Valle, ranchera music, every Sunday from 2 to 6 p.m. at Mariscos Restaurant, 1574 Paseo del Pueblo Sur, Ranchos de Taos. (575) 751-4285. s Omar Rane, jazz, blues and clas sical guitar, from 6 to 9 p.m. every Sunday and Friday at Mosaic, 108-A South Plaza, Taos. mosaicfinedining.com s Jazz Night with Christine Autumn, Dan Lizdas and Larry Audette, every Sunday from 7:30 to 9:30 p.m. at The Alley Cantina, 121 Teresina Lane, Taos. alleycantina.com
Mondays
s Monday Night Football every
alleycantina.com s Monday Night Football every Monday until Dec. 23, starts 6 p.m. at the KTAOS Solar Center, 9 State Road 150, Taos. ktaos.com
Tuesdays s Qi Gong Classes every Tuesday at 5 p.m. at Living Labyrinths for Peace Center, 1021 Salazar, Taos. Beginners welcome. qirevolution.com
Wednesdays s Red Willow Farmers Market offers fresh, local, greenhouse-grown produce every Wednesday beginning 10 a.m., at the Red Willow Center, 885 Star Road, Taos Pueblo. s Enchanted Storytelling, with storyteller Roberta Meyers, every Wednesday at 7 p.m. at Spirit Runner Gallery, 303 Paseo del Pueblo Norte. (575) 758-1132 s Jimmy Stadler live every Wednes day from 7 to 10 p.m. at Sabroso Restaurant and Bar, 470 State Road 150, Arroyo Seco. (575) 776-3333; sabrosotaos.com s Karaoke with DJ Eyes every Wednesday from 9:30 to midnight at he Alley
Thursdays s Story Time and Crafts for Toddlers from 10:30 to 11:30 a.m. every Thursday at Taos Public library, 402 Camino de la Placita. taoslibrary.org s Drop-in meditation from 11:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. every Thursday at Taos Mountain Sangha, 107-C Plaza García. Donations appreciated. taosmountainsangha.org/ s Happy Hour Open Mic every Thurs day from 5 to 7 p.m. at Taos Mesa Brewing, 20 ABC Mesa Road, Taos. taosmesabrewing.com
Fridays s Locals Appreciation Wine Tasting the last Friday of every month from 4 to 7 p.m. at La Chiripada Winery, 103B Bent Street. (575) 751-1311; lachiripada.com s Craven Greene (acoustic blues, country and classic rock) in the lounge every Friday from 6 to 8 p.m. at Casa de Valdez, 1401 Paseo del Pueblo Sur. (575) 758-8777; facebook.com/pages/Casa-De-Valdez
Saturdays s Chris and Cass at Taos Java every Saturday from 9:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. Chris Wyndham (guitar, vocals), Cass Adams (harmonica) and friends make music at Taos Java, 1006 Paseo del Pueblo Sur, Taos. s Live Music at Blue Heron Brew ing Company every Saturday from 5 to 7 p.m. Blue Heron Brewing Company in Rinconada off State Road 68. (505) 579-9188; blueheronbrews.com
Ongoing Exhibits
s Through Jan.. 26 at The Har-
wood Museum of Art:
“The Paintings of Burt Harwood” in the Mandelman-Ribak Gallery; “Single Lens Reflex: The Photographs of Burt Harwood” in the George E. Foster, Jr. Gallery of Prints, Drawings, and Photographs; and “Peter Parks: New Works” on the Curator’s Wall. 238 Ledoux Street. harwoodmuseum.org s Through Feb.. 2 at The Harwood Museum of Art:
“The Taos Municipal Schools Historic Art Collection” in the Peter & Madeleine Martin Gallery. 238 Ledoux Street. harwoodmuseum. org Tina Larkin
The annual Christmas Tree Lighting The Adobe Bar at at6the Inn is121 oneTeresina of many festive social Mondayat until Dec. 23, starts p.m.Historic at The Taos Cantina, Lane, Taos.and events in Taos during the holidays. Call the Taos Inn to see when the event is scheduled for this year. Alley Cantina, 121 Teresina Lane, Taos. alleycantina.com
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December Dec. 5: Children’s Party, 3 to 5 p.m., for
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the Festival of Trees and Wreaths at El Montre Sagrado. Dec. 6: Festival of Trees and Wreaths Community Holiday Party at El Montre Sagrado, from 5:30 to 10 p.m. Dec. 6: Step In (R&B/soul/blues) offers a free concert at 8 p.m. at KTAOS Solar Center. ktaos.com Dec. 7: The Taos Community Chorus, with conductor Tina Sandoval, presents “From Paris to Buenos Aires,” a holiday program featuring “Messe de Minuit pour Noel,” by MarcAntoine Charpentier, and Navidad Nuestra by Ariel Ramirez at 3 p.m. at St. James Episcopal Church in Taos. (575) 776-3998; taoschorus.com Dec. 7: Last to Know and Will Bell perform at the Taos Feeds Taos Food Drive, beginning at 5 p.m. at the KTAOS Solar Center. $7 at the door or bring 5 cans of food. ktaos.com; taosfeedstaos.org; lasttoknowmusic.net Dec. 7: Lighting Ledoux, from 5 to 7 p.m. on Ledoux Street in Taos. Enjoy one of Taos’ favorite holiday traditions as merchants and galleries stay open late, and carolers, sing in the luminaria and farolito-lined street. harwoodmuseum.org December 7 and 8: Enchanted Forest Cross-Country and Snowshoe Area’s s nowshoe race clinic and fun run. enchanted forestxc.com Dec. 8: The Taos Community Chorus, with conductor Tina Sandoval, presents “From Paris to Buenos Aires,” a holiday program featuring “Messe de Minuit pour No?l,” by MarcAntoine Charpentier, and Navidad Nuestra by Ariel Ramirez at 3 p.m. at Our Lady of Guadalupe in Taos. (575) 776-3998; taoschorus.com Dec. 12: String Band (high-energy, cellodriven bluegrass) performs at Taos Mesa Brewing, ABC Mesa Road. taosmesabrewing.com Dec. 13: Johnny Richter of the Kottonmouth Kings (hip-hop/rap) performs at 8:30 p.m. at the KTAOS Solar Center. ktaos.com Dec. 14: Santa Paws at the John Dunn Shops, from noon to 3 p.m. Santa will find out what your pet wants for Christmas, and pose for a photo with your pet. Pets for adoption will also be present and there will be hot beverages and snacks. This is a benefit for St. James Pet Food Pantry. (575) 758-8110; johndunnshops.com Dec. 14: Bonfires on Bent Street at the John Dunn Shops and on Bent Street in Taos, from 10 a.m. to 7 p.m., includes sales and drawings. From 4 to 7 p.m., a reception with farolitos and luminarias, food, music, Santa Claus and more. johndunnshops.com Dec. 14: Moonlight Hike and Campfire at Sipapu from 6:30 to 8:30 p.m.. After a guided
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Paul “Santa Paws” Becker poses with Stray Heart Animal Shelter volunteers and adoptable dogs during Bonfires on Bent Street annual block party. tour, enjoy hot cocoa by the fire. sipapunm. com Dec. 14 and 15: Taos Chamber Music Group presents “Four Birthdays & an Anniversary!” celebrating the Sagittarius birthdays of Beethoven, Berlioz, Joseph Jongen and Laupheimer, as well as the Harwood Museum’s 90th anniversary. harwoodmuseum.org; taoschambermusicgroup.org Dec. 17 and 18: “It’s A Wonderful Life: A Live Radio Play” at Taos Mesa Brewing. A stage-play adaptation of the classic film. (575) 224-1066; taosmesabrewing.com Dec. 20 and 21: Demo Days at Taos Ski Valley. Ride the newest skis and snowboards on the market at no cost. skitaos.org Dec. 17: Enchanted Forest’s Moonlight Ski and Snowshoe Dinner Tour. enchanted forestxc.com Dec 21: Brewmaster’s Festival at Taos Ski Valley. Bring your friends and sample beers from 25 breweries from across the southwest region. skitaos.org Dec. 22: Community Chorus presents “Messiah Sing-Along” at 2:30 p.m. at First Presbyterian Church of Taos, 215 Paseo del Pueblo Norte. Raise your voice with the Taos Community Chorus and conductor Tina Sandoval in Handel’s classic oratorio “Messiah”. Bring your score or borrow one at the door. (575) 776-3998; taoschorus.com Dec. 24: Torchlight Parade and Fireworks Shows
Angel Fire Ski Area will light up on Christmas Eve with a festive evening of torchlight parade and fireworks before capping off the evening with night skiing at the only ski area in New Mexico to offer skiing under the stars. angelfireresort.com Celebrate Christmas Eve in Red
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light Parades
Start your New Year’s Eve celebration at Taos Ski Valley with the torchlight parade and fireworks display beginning at 6 p.m., followed by festivities throughout the valley. skitaos.org Celebrate New Year’s Eve on the slopes with a Torchlight Parade at 7 p.m., at Red River Ski Area. redriverskiarea.com Ring in the New Year with a torchlight parade and fireworks display over Angel Fire Ski Resort. angelfireresort.com Dec. 31: Old Fashioned New Year’s Eve Party. Celebrate New Year’s Eve with a cake walk, pizza walk, hula hoop contest, and more at the Red River Community House. Admission is free, and food and refreshments are available. redrivercommunity house.org Dec. 31: New Year’s Eve Potluck Party at Enchanted Forest. Bring your favorite dish and celebrate with lighted skiing and sledding in base. enchantedforestxc.com
January Tina Larkin
Last year the Alley Cantina won first place for the best happy hour. River at the Lift House with the magical play of lights from the Torchlight Parade and Fireworks. Begins at 7 p.m. redriverskiarea.com Join Taos Ski Valley for a great start to your Christmas Eve celebrations. Torchlight Parade kicks off at 6 p.m., and ends at the base of Chair #1. skitaos.org Dec. 24: Christmas Eve Procession at Taos Pueblo, begins at sundown. The Procession of the Virgin, through bonfires is an event everyone should experience. taospueblo.com Dec. 24: Sipapu Christmas Eve Party, featuring snacks, cookie decorating and tree trimming in the main lodge. sipapunm.com Dec. 24: Christmas Eve at Picuris Pueblo. For information, call (505) 587-1099 Dec. 25: Christmas night festivities at Enchanted Forest. At 6:30 p.m., visitors are welcome to ski Enchanted Forest Cross Country Ski Area under the the warm glow of candlelight. Luminarias (or farolitos) are placed along a one-way three-kilometer loop. enchantedforestxc.com Dec. 25: Deer or Matachines Dance at Taos Pueblo. Traditional Christmas Day dances begin at 2 p.m. No cameras or cell phones allowed. taospueblo.com Dec. 25: Picuris Pueblo Ceremonial Dance. For information, call (505) 587-1099 Dec. 31: New Year’s Eve Torch-
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Jan. 1: Turtle Dance at Taos Pueblo, from 8 a.m. to 1 p.m. taospueblo.com Jan. 1: Polar Bear Plunge in Eagle Nest. The ice is removed from Eagle Nest Lake just long enough, from 9 a.m. to noon, for all adventurous jumpers to christen themselves in the
bone-chilling waters. enl-cc.parkfriends.org Jan. 5-15: College Days at Red River Ski Area. Students with a valid ID receive discounted lift tickets. Live entertainment, games and contests throughout town — come party. redriverskiarea.com Jan. 6: Buffalo Dance at Taos Pueblo. A symbol of abundance during the winter months, traditional Buffalo Dances begin about 1 p.m. No photography allowed. taospueblo.com Jan. 6: King’s Day Celebration at Picuris Pueblo. For all ceremonial dances, extend the same respect you would in your church at home. No photography is allowed. For information, call (505) 587-1099 Jan. 10-12 and Jan. 17-20: Winter Carnival at Red River Ski Area. Snowmobile races, a wine festival, scavenger hunts, snowman building, family events, live music, events in the park, shopping strolls, parades, fireworks and more. redriverskiarea.com Jan. 11 and 12: Taos Chamber Music Group presents Animal Variations, at 5 p.m. each dat at the Harwood Museum of Art, 238 Ledoux St., Taos. TCMG will combine music, words and illustrations in “The Frog Prince Continued,” by Patrick Neher as well as Franz Schubert’s “Trout Quintet” and Richard Rodney Bennett’s “Six Tunes for the Instruction of Singing Birds.” taoschambermusicgroup.org
Courtesy Photo
Revelers enjoy the night during last year’s Festival of Trees and Wreaths Community Holiday Party.
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OF TAO 2009