T
Thank You Taos For Voting for Ojo Best Place for a Massage • Best Place to Pamper Your Skin • Best Weekend Getaway Best Place to Take a Dip • Best Place to Soak 2nd Place: Best Place To Say “I Do” • Best Lodging For Visitors
Visit ojospa.com for lodging and spa specials. 37 miles SW of Taos via paved Rim Road/285
505.583.2233
ojospa.com
ojocaliente
Visit our Facebook page to learn how to win a “Muy Tranquilo Two Night Stay at Ojo!”
Trust. Friendship. Support.
Photo by Tina Larkin, The Taos News
The same values that make Taos our home drive our relationships with our clients and community. Visit us and find out why we’ve been voted Best of Taos four years running.
Wanda Lucero 575-737-5433 wandalucero.com
2013
Best of Taos County w taosnews.com/best of
Inside Features
6
Best of Taos: It’s up to you
12
Guadalajara Grill: Great Mexican food in a flash
16
TAos Cow: Simply the best
22
A conspiracy is brewing at Taos Mesa “Best Place to Get Inked,” Page 58 Page 34
“Best Real estate Agent,” Page 50
24
So what kind of place is Taos?
34
Living Light Gallery: Where spirit and art meet
36
What is the hottest topic in Taos?
44
Page 44
Twirl still the best place for kids to have fun
52
Taoseño? Your credentials please
“Best Restaurant,” Page 8
53
Taos in three words
Best of Taos results Best of Food and Drink Best of Shopping Best of Things to Do “Best Hair Salon,” Page 50
Best of Entertainment Best of Services
Photos by Tina Larkin
8 26 40 46 50
Staff Robin Martin, Owner Chris Baker, Publisher Joan Livingston, Editor Chris wood, Advertising Manager
Page 12
Page 16
ANDY JONES, Special Sections Editor Marilyn M. Olsen, Designer virginia l. clark, Copy Editor michelle M. gutierrez, Production Manager Cover design: chris baker /Julie Osmanski
Best of Taos County w taosnews.com/best of
2013
twirlhouse.com
ED E T O V LAC P T S BES R KID FO HAVE TO N! FU
Thank you Taos County for voting Us #1.
twirl
toystore & playspace
Rafting because it’s fun Thank You Taos for voting Los Rios River Runners #1 New Mexico’s Oldest, Most Experienced Rafting Company
losriosriverrunners.com info@losriosriverrunners.com ‡
It could not have been done without the greatest team in Taos: Cynthia Silva RDH 15 years Nancy Bourg RDH 14 years Natalie Mandragon DA 10 years Alexa McQueen DA 4 years Herminda Jaramillo DA 1 year Jane Hogsett Office Manager 6 years Jacquelene Brisson-Stahl Our New Receptionist
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1337 Gusdorf Rd, Suite A www.kellieharrisdds.com Most insurance accepted
2013
Best of Taos County w taosnews.com/best of
Best of Taos :
It’s up to you
E
very year, for the Best of Taos awards and special section we rely on the opinions of the voting public, mainly readers of The Taos News. As they say, there’s no accouting for taste — unless, that is, you are counting actual ballots that reflect the tastes and preferences of an entire community. Which is exactly how this list of Best of Taos winners was created. It’s simple, really: We set up the ballot online and the readers fill it out. The process (while only recently online) has operated in this democratic manner for 15 years now. We try to make sure every business is represented on the ballot, but it’s an imperfect task in an area where places come and go with some frequency. We also leave space for writein votes, in case we did leave someone out. And because of our attention to detail, the poll itself can seem a bit overwhelming. It takes some effort, and we greatly appreciate everyone who participated. After the voting is complete, we notify the winners and deliver the banners you see around town. And of course, no one will agree with the list entirely, taste is purely subjective. Though it does seem that by gathering feedback from the entire community, the cream usually rises to the top. And if you feel strongly about a perceived injustice, you can always start lobbying for your favorite business in advance of the 2014 Best of Taos polling. Our goal is to have 100 percent participation in Taos County so we can provide the truest representation of the opinions of the community. The ballots will appear online sometime in March or April 2014. But now is a time to celebrate the Best of Taos winners in 2013. Congratulations! — Andy Jones, special sections editor
File Photo
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2013
Voted #1 in 2013 for
“Taos is Freedom for My Spirit. Food for my Soul.� —Mattress Mary
“Best Mexican Restaurant� Also “Best Fast Food� in 2013
2 LocationS to Serve You South Side t 1384 Paseo Del Pueblo Sur (across from Ace Hardware) NoRth Side t 822 Paseo Del Pueblo Norte Taos (in the old Cid’s Market) :LY]PUN +VTLZ[PJ 0TWVY[ )LLYZ ‹ >PUL ‹ 4HYNHYP[HZ
Home Sleep Design 710 Paseo del Pueblo Sur Taos 575.758.5885
We
you, too.
Photo by Tina Larkin, The Taos News
Our Special Secret Sauce Makes the Difference!
Thanks, Taos, for making us the Best Year after Year, Year after Year!
THANK YOU TAOS!
ST PlAce:
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2013
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The Be s t of Ta o s 2 0 1 3 n F o od a n d Dr i n k Best breakfast n First Place
best restaurant n First Place
Lambert’s of Taos
123 Bent St., Taos (575) 758-1009 lambertsoftaos.com
n Second Place
The Love Apple 803 Paseo del Pueblo Norte, Taos (575) 751-0050 theloveapple.net
Best new restaurant n First Place
Old Martina’s Hall
Michael’s Kitchen Café & Bakery
304-C Paseo del Pueblo Norte, Taos (575) 758-4178 michaelskitchen.com
n Second Place
Taos Diner I
908 Paseo del Pueblo Norte, Taos (575) 758-2374 Taos Diner II 216-B Paseo del Pueblo Sur, Taos (575) 751-1989 taosdiner.com
Best breakfast burrito n First Place
Mante’s Chow Cart 402 Paseo del Pueblo Sur, Taos (575) 758-3632
The Adobe Bar at the the Historic Taos Inn earned voter support in a host of categories, including “Best Happy Hour,” “Best Bar,” “Best Margarita,” and “Best Patio.” Tina Larkin
n Second Place
Abe’s Cantina y Cocina 489 State Road 150, Arroyo Seco (575) 776-8643
4140 State Road 68, Ranchos de Taos (575) 758-3003 oldmartinashall.com
n Second Place
Taos Mesa Brewing
20 ABC Mesa Road, El Prado, (575) 7581900, taosmesabrewing.com
Best brunch n First Place
Graham’s Grille 106 Paseo del Pueblo Norte, Taos (575) 751-1350 grahamstaos.com
n Second Place
Dragonfly Café & Bakery
402 Paseo del Pueblo Norte, Taos (575) 737-5859 dragonflytaos.com
Tina Larkin
Chef Ky Quintanilla speaks with customers at Lambert’s of Taos, which was named “Best Restaurant,” “Best Ambiance” and “Best Waitstaff” in this year’s Best of Taos voting.
Continued on page 10
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2013
1st Place 3 Years in a Row Thank you TaoseĂąos for Your loyal support and referrals!
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-Orlando,Yvette and Crew
1st Place:
Orlando &
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Thank you for voting us best again! 1
st
Best Grocery Store Best Place to Eat Your Greens Best Green Business
2
nd
Best Place to Buy Fresh Fruits & Veggies
Organic Produce t Fresh Hormone-Free Meat t Fresh Seafood t Coffee t Local Foods t Bakery Products t Cheese t Bulk Foods Vitamins t Herbs t Gifts t Fresh Flowers t Hot Foods t Salad Bar
And With Our New Kitchen Even More Tempting Take Out Foods Then Ever 623 Paseo del Pueblo Norte t Taos t 575.758.1148 t www.cidsfoodmarket.com 2013
Best of Taos County w taosnews.com/best of
The Be s t of Ta o s 2 0 1 3 n F o od a n d Dr i n k Continued from page 8
best wait staff n First Place
Lambert’s of Taos
123 Bent St., Taos (575) 758-1009 lambertsoftaos.com
n Second Place
Mary Jane Estrada of Mary Jane’s Home Cooking (“Best Roadside Food Stand”) has customers even in the coldest of weather.
Graham’s Grille 106 Paseo del Pueblo Norte, Taos (575) 751-1350 grahamstaos.com
Tina Larkin
Best new mexican n First Place
Orlando’s New Mexican Cafe 1114 Don Juan Valdez Lane, Taos (575) 751-1450 orlandostaos.com
n Second Place
Ranchos Plaza Grill 8 Ranchos Plaza, Ranchos de Taos (575) 758-5788
Best traditional mexican n First Place Tina Larkin
The patio at Graham’s Grille, which was voted “Best Brunch” and earned second place for “Best Wait Staff.”
Best place to eat your greens n First Place
Cid’s Food Market Salad Bar
623 Paseo del Pueblo Norte, Taos (575) 758-1148 cidsfoodmarket.com
n Second Place
Dragonfly Café & Bakery
Best sushi n First Place
Sushi a la Hattori
1405 Paseo del Pueblo Norte, Taos (575) 737-5123
n Second Place
Song’s Asian Restaurant 703 Paseo del Pueblo Sur, Taos (575) 758-3256
Guadalajara Grill - southside 1384-#8 Paseo del Pueblo Sur, Taos (575) 751-0063 Guadalajara Grill - northside 822 Paseo del Pueblo Norte (575) 737-0816 guadalaragrilltaos. com
n Second Place
Antonio’s A Taste of Mexico 122 Doña Luz St., Taos, (575) 7514800, antoniosof taos.com
402 Paseo del Pueblo Norte, Taos (575) 737-5859 dragonflytaos.com
Continued on page 14
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2013
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11
Guadalajara Grill:
great Mexican food, in a flash By J.R. Logan
G
ot 30 minutes to chow down and want something a little more gourmet than a greasy, mystery meat hamburger? For Taoseños, Guadalajara Grill is the obvious answer, winning Best of Taos for fast food and traditional Mexican food. Guadalara Grill (known among locals as simply “Guad”) has locations at the north and south ends of town, making it a quick and convenient option no matter where you are.
12
The service is fast and friendly, and the food is, well, great. The restaurant specializes in central Mexican cuisine from the state of Jalisco. Breakfast items include menudo (beef tripe with hominy), chilaquiles (fried corn torillas filled with chicken or beef) and, of course, huevos rancheros. There are also flavorful seafood and steak dishes, like Camaron Veracruz, which is a heaping plate of sauteed shrimp in a homemade mole with bell peppers and onions. In addition to the more complex items, standards like burritos and ta-
Best of Taos County w taosnews.com/best of
cos are done to perfection. The go-to for many knowledgable customers is the burrito plate — a hefty serving of food for an affordable $10.50. The ambiance at Guadalajara Grill is casual — order at the counter, grab some forks and napkins, and wait for the food to be brought to your table. Orders are up in minutes, and prices are easy on the wallet. The restaurant also serves a wide selection of Mexican and domestic beers, as well as other beverages to wash down your meal. For dessert, don’t forget the fried ice cream, a house speciality
that’s on prominent display near the front counter. The southside Guad first opened in 1994, with the northside location popping up five years later. Manager Francisco Solis says the key to the business’ success comes down to one thing: consistency. “We try to make sure the food and the service is the best quality every time you come in,” says Solis. Northside Guad can be reached at 737-0816. The southside location’s number is 751-0063. More information, including a full menu, is available at guadalajaragrilltaos.com.
2013
Diners enjoy a meal at the Southside location of The Guadalajara Grill.
Jazmin Solis works for her uncles ‘Nacho y Nacho,’ at the southside Guadalajara Grill location.
Tina Larkin
Tina Larkin
Southside Guadalajara Grill staff cooking it up in the kitchen.
2013
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The Be s t of Ta o s 2 0 1 3 n F o od a n d Dr i n k Continued from page 10
Best red chile n First Place
Orlando’s New Mexican Cafe 1114 Don Juan Valdez Lane, Taos (575) 751-1450 orlandostaos.com
n Second Place
Ranchos Plaza Grill 8 Ranchos Plaza, Ranchos de Taos (575) 758-5788
Best green chile n First Place
Orlando’s New Mexican Cafe
Best fast food n First Place
Guadalajara Grill -southside 1384-#8 Paseo del Pueblo Sur, Taos (575) 751-0063 Guadalajara Grill -northside 822 Paseo del Pueblo Norte (575) 737-0816 guadalaragrilltaos. com
n Second Place
Blake’s Lotaburger south
1136 Paseo del Pueblo Sur, Taos (575) 758-4771 Blake’s Lotaburger north 809 Paseo del Pueblo, Taos lotaburger.com
1114 Don Juan Valdez Lane, Taos (575) 751-1450 orlandostaos.com
Old Martina’s Hall was voted “Best New Restaurant” by the readers of The Taos News.
Best roadside food stand
n Second Place
First Place
Michael’s Kitchen Café & Bakery
n Mary Jane’s Home Cooking
304-C Paseo del Pueblo Norte, Taos (575) 758-4178 michaelskitchen.com
Tina Larkin
616 Paseo del Pueblo Sur, Taos (575) 770-1171
n Second Place
Toribio’s - south 1104 Paseo del Puebl Sur, Taos (575) 758-3060 Toribilo’s - north 1637 Paseo del Pueblo Norte, Taos (575) 751-4431
best pizza n First Place
Pizaños
Elevation Coffee earned Best of Taos’ “Best Cuppa Joe” designation for 2013. Pictured above is an Elevation latté.
Tina Larkin
23 State Road 150, Taos (575) 776-1050 taospizza.com
n Second Place
Taos Pizza Outback
712 Paseo del Pueblo Norte, Taos (575) 758-3112 taospizzaoutback. com
Continued on page 18
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Thank You for Voting us Best Place to Ship a Package in 2013!
We Do Passport Photos t 1BTFP EFM 1VFCMP 4VS t 'BY 2012 Top 100 UPS Shipper 2013
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Taos Cow:
Simply the best By Andrew Oxford
“W
Tina Larkin
Taos Cow owner Jamie Leeson is celebrating being in the business of good ice cream for 20 years.
e try to keep our ingredients monosyllabic,” Taos Cow proprietor Jamie Leeson told me as I perused a sampling of the flavors his Arroyo Seco-based ice cream company had been turning out for two decades. Made from New Mexican milk untarnished by growth hormones or unpronounceable chemicals, Leeson said he was proud of the simplicity of his product. “What is your favorite flavor?” I asked. “I have really been a fan of sweet cream,” Leeson replied. “No flavorings at all.” The basic ingredients of Taos Cow’s ice cream, Leeson said, are of such high quality that they can stand on their own. It sounded a little too simple for my own sweet tooth. Passing up tempting flavors like lavender and Mexican chocolate, I decided to try a hearty scoop of piñon caramel. The tooth was certainly satisfied, but there is also something wholesome and clean about Taos Cow ice cream that offers a sharp contrast to the sugar overload so many pints of factory-packed confection can provide. Leeson, a Rhode Island native, arrived in Arroyo Seco in the early ’90s to ski for a season before attending law school. A ski bum at heart, he never went back to school. Instead, he founded Taos Cow in 1993 with a previous business partner and some second-hand equipment. The company initially produced hand-packed tubs of ice cream wholesale for local restaurants and grocery stores. As the business grew, Taos Cow established a shop down the street from its present location on Highway 150 in 1995. At the same time, Leeson and his partner sought to roll out Taos Cow on store shelves nationwide. Leeson said the moment seemed right as consumers were taking an interest in natural foods. “rBGH-free was a big deal,” Leeson said, using the shorthand for recombinant bovine growth hormone — now common in dairy products. “There were studies coming out that farmers were using too much of the hormones and we knew it was a really bad gig.” At one point, pints of Taos Cow could be found at retailers in 15 states. The company could not compete in a price war against the likes of Haagen-Dazs or Ben and Jerry’s, however. “They dump more ice cream down the drain than we make in a year,” Leeson said. In 2000, Taos Cow refocused on its store in Arroyo Seco. A new partner joined the company and massproduction was abandoned. Though Arroyo Seco had seemed “like the end of the world” when Leeson first arrived, backpackers and gourmands alike still beat a trail to Taos Cow. Bon Appetit and USA Today have ranked the ice cream store among the best in America. As customers stepped up to the counter to order everything from huevos rancheros to almond croissants, however, it was clear that Taos Cow had earned a reputation as much more than a place to grab a scoop of rocky road. The breakfast and lunch menu spanned a chalkboard the length of the store. Next year, Leeson said, he will be gunning to win the title of best coffee shop in Taos. “Best Reuben sandwich, too,” Leeson added. “I think we could win that.”
The menu at Taos Cow is colorful and extensive. Tina Larkin
2013
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The Be s t of Ta o s 2 0 1 3 n F o od a n d Dr i n k Continued from page 14
best brewery
Best place to catch a game
n First Place
n Second Place
n First Place
n Second Place
Taos Mesa Brewing
Eske’s Brew Pub & Restaurant
Applebee’s Neighborhood Grill and Bar
The KTAOS Station Bar
20 ABC Mesa Road, El Prado (575) 758-1900 taosmesabrewing. com
106 Des Georges Place, Taos (575) 758-1517 eskesbrewpub. combrewing.com
(Closed)
9 State Road 150, TAos (575) 758-5826 ktaos.combrewing. com
best bar First Place n Adobe Bar at the Historic Taos Inn
125 Paseo del Pueblo Norte, Taos (575) 758-2233 taosinn.com/adobe_ bar.html
n Second Place
Taos Mesa Brewing
20 ABC Mesa Road, El Prado (575) 758-1900 taosmesabrewing. combrewing.com
Best happy hour n Adobe Bar at the Historic Taos Inn
Michael’s Kitchen was voted “Best Breakfast” and was second place in the “Best Green” category.
best patio n First Place
Adobe Bar at the Historic Taos Inn
125 Paseo del Pueblo Norte, Taos (575) 758-2233 taosinn.com/adobe_ bar.html
n Second Place
The KTAOS Station Bar
9 State Road 150, Taos (575) 758-5826 ktaos.com
n Second Place
5 Star Burgers
Best beer selection
1032 Paseo del Pueblo Sur, Taos (575) 758-8484 5starburgers.com brewing.com
n First Place
Taos Mesa Brewing
20 ABC Mesa Road, El Prado (575) 758-1900 taosmesabrewing. com
n Second Place
Eske’s Brew Pub & Restaurant
106 Des Georges Place, Taos (575) 758-1517 eskesbrewpub.com brewing.com
5 Star Burgers was voted “Best Burger” and recieved second place for “Best Happy Hour.”
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Tina Larkin
125 Paseo del Pueblo Norte, Taos (575) 758-2233 taosinn.com/adobe_ bar.html
Best of Taos County w taosnews.com/best of
Tina Larkin
Continued on page 20 2013
Thank You for Your VoTe! We grow quality, one plant at a time. Petree’s
NURSERY & GREENHOUSES Petree Lane, off Blueberry Hill Rd. t QFUSFFOVSTFSZ DPN
LOCAL FOOD YEAR ROUND OPEN EVERY WEdNEsdaY BN QN r 5BPT 1VFCMP 5)"/, :06 5"04 '03 :063 '3*&/%4)*1 "/% 4611035 5)*4 :&"3 5B_BI (SBDJBT ĉBOLT
SHOES
Thank you Taos for selecting us as your favorite shoe store! Shoes for both men and women — featuring Dansko, KEEN, Merrell, New Balance, Chaco, Teva, Sanuk, Olukai, Brooks, Saucony, Naot, TOMS, Nike and more Mention this ad and get
$10 off
any shoe purchase inc
luding sale and clearance c ave items
r (SFFOIPVTF (SPXO PO 5BPT 1VFCMP
Thank you Taos for selecting our Living Light Gallery the Best in Taos.
THANK YOU TAOS!
For selecting us #1 in the area for: Best Outdoor Shop & Best Place to Gear Up for the Trail And 2nd Place for: Best Place to Gear Up for the Slopes Best Place to Buy a Pair of Shades
We are honored and humbled by your love and support! We strive to make each and every one of your visits to our gallery a most enjoyable and memorable experience. Thank you for your support for the last 15 years! Please stop by to see the new work or to get a hug! Lenny Foster
Living Light Gallery 107 Kit Carson Rd. (on the boardwalk) [[[ PIRR]JSWXIV GSQ ˆ KSPIRR]$PIRR]JSWXIV GSQ ˆ
2013
'FBUVSJOH 1BUBHPOJB 5IF /PSUI 'BDF $PMVNCJB 1SBOB $BNFMCBL 0TQSFZ 8BMMBSPP BOE NPSF
0QFO &WFSZ %BZ t 0O UIF 1MB[B /FYU UP )PUFM -B 'POEB t UBPTNPVOUBJOPVUýUUFST DPN 4BMF EPFT OPU BQQMZ UP QSFWJPVT QVSDIBTFT -PDBM EJTDPVOU DBSE EPFT OPU BQQMZ UP TBMF QVSDIBTFT
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The Be s t of Ta o s 2 0 1 3 n F o od a n d Dr i n k Continued from page 18
best margarita
best burger
n First Place
n First Place
Adobe Bar at the Historic Taos Inn
5 Star Burgers
1032 Paseo del Pueblo Sur, Taos (575) 758-8484 5starburgers.com
125 Paseo del Pueblo Norte, Taos (575) 758-2233 taosinn.com/adobe_ bar.html
n Second Place
Blake’s Lotaburger - south
n Second Place
Sabroso Restaurant and Bar
1136 Paseo del Pueblo Sur, Taos (575) 758-4771 Blake’s Lotaburger - north 809 Paseo del Pueblo, Taos lotaburger.com
470 State Road 150, Arroyo Seco (575) 776-3333 sabrosotaos.com Tina Larkin
Sushi a la Hattori was once again honored as the “Best Sushi” restaurant in Taos County.
best ambiance n First Place
Lambert’s of Taos
123 Bent St., Taos (575) 758-1009 lambertsoftaos.com
n Second Place
The Love Apple 803 Paseo del Pueblo Norte, Taos (575) 751-0050 theloveapple.net
Best cuppa joe n First Place
Best place to satisfy your sweet tooth n First Place
n Second Place
Taos Cow Ice Cream Scoop Shop, Cafe and Deli
Dragonfly Café and Bakery
485 State Road 150, Arroyo Seco (575) 776-5640 taoscow.com
402 Paseo del Pueblo Norte, Taos (575) 737-5859 dragonflytaos.com
Best area winery n First Place
Vivác Winery
2075 State Road 68, Dixon (505) 579-4441 vivacwinery.com
n Second Place
Black Mesa Winery
1502 State Road 68, Velarde (505) 852-2820 Black Mesa Tasting Room and Gallery 241 Ledoux St., Taos blackmesawinery. com
Elevation Coffee 1110 Paseo del Pueblo Norte, El Prado (575) 779-6078 elevationcoffeetaos. com
n Second Place
Taos Java
1006 Paseo del Pueblo Sur, Taos (575) 751-9405
File Photo
Vivác Winery was named “Best Area Winery” in this year’s Best of Taos voting.
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Best of Taos County w taosnews.com/best of
2013
Thank You Taos For Voting Us The Best New Restaurant in 2013 -Martina
Dine t Drink t Dance
$BMM 'PS 3FTFSWBUJPOT t PMENBSUJOBTIBMM DPN 4UBUF 3E t 3BODIPT EF 5BPT t
EXCEPTIONAL CARE WHEN IT’S NEEDED MOST. HOME HEALTHCARE, HOSPICE, MEDICAL EQUIPMENT & PERSONAL CARE SERVICES AMBERCARE.COM
2013
1.877.861.0060
Best of Taos County w taosnews.com/best of
21
at
Taos Mesa Tina Larkin
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2013
By Matthew van Buren
T
aos Mesa Brewing may be relatively new on the scene, but it is already making its mark in Taos. Those who have driven on Highway 64 toward the Río Grande Gorge Bridge have seen the company’s base of operations — a gleaming, eco-friendly, 4,500-square-foot Quonset hut, flags out front flapping in the breeze — but the beer from Taos Mesa, voted Taos’ “Best Brewery,” can be found all over the Valley. One brew even made it to the White House. Taos News readers also said the brewery has Taos’ “Best Beer Selection,” and the location north of town earned second place in the “Best New Restaurant,” “Best Bar” and “Best Place to Shake Your Booty” categories. Given the manifold métiers of the Mesa, perhaps it is no surprise that the brewery has excelled in so many “Best Of Taos” categories. Though it has “brewing” in its name, the venue is family-friendly, even hosting fundraisers for local schools. And when the Río Grande del Norte was designated a National Monument this year, New Mexico’s congressional delegates joined retired Sen. Jeff Bingaman and then-Secretary of the Interior Ken Salazar for a celebration at Taos Mesa. The brewery named a beer for the Río Grande del Norte and sent some to President Obama. Wine is also available at Taos Mesa, which not only offers a strong daily menu featuring tasty salads and filling entrées, but regularly organizes gourmet “beer dinners,” in which five courses are expertly paired with five beers. At a beer dinner in May, for example, diners started with a smoked tomato red ale soup and grilled goat gouda panini paired with a Lunch Pale Ale; the third course consisted of a
Tina Larkin
The patio at Taos Mesa Brewing.
Though it has “brewing” in its name, the venue is family-friendly, even hosting fundraisers for local schools. 10-spice barbecue shrimp cocktail with roasted corn jicama salsa and crispy tortilla strips paired with Taos Mesa’s Wheeler Peak Wheat. Live music underpins the other offerings at Taos Mesa Brewing, and listeners can enjoy acts from reggae to heavy metal while they take in the expansive view. Performers of all stripes can take the stage Thursday evenings for Open Mic Night. Pool tournaments, bluegrass picking circles and even disc golf in the yard round out the action at Taos Mesa — evidence that a single brewery can strive to be all things to all people. But now back to the beer: Of course, there are plenty of varieties from all over the state on tap. Those who want to know about last-minute deals and special discounts can join the “Conspiracy Club,” and aficionados who really want to take it to the next level can start with Taos Mesa’s “Beer School 101,” which includes a tour of the brewery and discussion about the process. Beer School starts Sunday evenings at 5 p.m. For more information or to view a calendar of events, visit taosmesa brewing.com. The brewery can be reached by phone at (575) 758-1900.
2013
The Taos Mesa Brewing Company family prior to the establishment’s opening last summer.
Tina Larkin
Best of Taos County w taosnews.com/best of
23
So what kind of place is Taos? By Joan Livingston
T
aos is a place that … well, we asked our readers to fill in the blank. And from the answers we received, it appears Taos is a pretty good place to live. For instance, Taos is a place that accepts and allows, as in “allows everyone to roll their own way.” Our little place in the world also has a lot going for it: beautiful moun-
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Best of Taos County w taosnews.com/best of
tains, sunsets, sky, fresh air, good food, skiing, and amazing light. The list goes on. And naturally, Taos is a place that nourishes our readers. “Fills a void you didn’t know you had” was one answer. Here are two more: “Fills you with magic and wonder” and “Fills the darkest corners of my soul with fun.” Then, of course, many people wrote Taos feels like home, including, as one person wrote, “even for newcomers.” People wrote Taos also has good
energy, natural beauty and “crazy people.” More than one reader claimed Taos “has something for everybody.” Then, of course, there were the cynics, who noted Taos “drains your wallet” and “either you love it or hate it.” But so many more called Taos a healing and inspiring place. And the most frequent answer in the survey? Taos is the place that … “I love the most.” Or as one person put it, “Has many challenges, but at the end of the day you couldn’t think of a better place to be.”
2013
Thank you, Taos, for voting us‌ 2013 Best Place to Gear up for the Slopes
We also have all of your summer needs covered, from skateboarding to clothing and shoes!
Ski ShopS 1-800-322-8267
XXX DPUUBNTSJPHSBOEFSBGUJOH DPN t JOGP!DPUUBNTSJPHSBOEFSBGUJOH DPN
Mexican Restaurant
“Thanks TaoseĂąos for your loyal support in 2013!â€? Breakfast
(served all day)
Lunch & Dinner Plates
(all plates served w/ rice & beans)
The general perception among readers of The Taos News is that Taos is a great place to live.
Tina Larkin
Imported & Domestic Beer & Wine Wine Margaritas Open 7 Days a week 7am - 8pm 1637 Paseo del Pueblo Norte . El Prado (just south of the old blinking light)
(575) 754-4431 Visit Our New Location: 1104 Paseo del Pueblo Sur . Taos (located in the old Subway on Bertha Street)
Tina Larkin
2013
(575) 758-3060 Best of Taos County w taosnews.com/best of
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Th e Be s t of Ta o s 2 0 1 3 n Shop p i ng
Best place for bookworms n First Place Moby Dickens Bookshop
124 Bent St., Taos (575) 758-3050 mobydickens.com
n Second Place Brodsky Bookshop 226-A Paseo del Pueblo Norte, Taos (575) 758-9468 taosbooks.com
Best gallery n First Place Tina Larkin
Voters named Country Furnishings of Taos as the first place-winner for Best of Taos’ “Best Home Furnishings” category.
Best grocery store n First Place Cid’s Food Market
n First Place
623 Paseo del Pueblo Norte, Taos (575) 758-1148 cidsfoodmarket.com
FX | 18
n Second Place
Best hip local shop
103-C Bent St., Taos (575) 758-8590 fx18.com
n Second Place Red Cat Melissiana Folk Art & Treasures
Lenny Foster Living Light Gallery
107 Kit Carson Road, Taos (575) 737-9150 lennyfoster.com
n Second Place Michael McCormick Gallery 106-C Paseo del Pueblo Norte (575) 758-1372 mccormickgallery.com
Smith’s Food & Drug Center
224 Paseo del Pueblo Sur, Taos (575) 758-3711 smithsfoodanddrug.com
110 Doña Luz, Taos (575) 751-7553 redcatmelissiana.com
Best place to buy fruits and veggies n First Place Taos Farmers Market 400 Camino de la Placita (Town Hall parking lot) taosfarmersmarket.org
n Second Place Cid’s Food Market Tina Larkin
Shoppers in Taos Plaza head to Taos Mountain Outfitters in Taos Plaza. The store earned “Best Place to Gear Up for the Trail,” “Best Outdoor Shop” and second place for “Best Place to Gear Up for the Slopes.”
623 Paseo del Pueblo Norte, Taos (575) 758-1148 cidsfoodmarket.com
Continued on page 28
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2013
Great Eight! What can we say? For eight years running, you’ve voted us “Best Bank in Taos.” Banking Unusual is all about taking care of you and enhancing the lives of people who live in the Enchanted Circle. Peoples Helping People. You seem to agree ... and we couldn’t be more proud! From all of us at Peoples,
THANKS.
TAOS | QUESTA | RED RIVER
Member FDIC
Please Join Us! 7:20am Every Wednesday at Quality Inn Paseo del Pueblo Sur, Taos
IHURPUN\U\Z\HS JVT 2013
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s t Ta ofo Ta Shop TheTh Bees tBeof s 2o0s1 32 0n1 3 F onod anp di ng Dr i n k Continued from page 26
Best place to buy flowers n First Place Taos Farmers Market 400 Camino de la Placita (Town Hall parking lot) taosfarmersmarket.org
n Second Place Bud’s Cut Flowers & More
711-A Paseo del Pueblo Sur, Taos (575) 758-3555
Best place to gear up for the slopes n First Place Cottam’s Ski & Outdoor
Photo Illustration by Tina Larkin
Jack Wrap It employees, from left, Justine Little, Tony Knief and Sarah Robert-Shaw, and longtime customer Rob Weiss. Jack Wrap It earned the title “Best Place to Ship a Package” in this year’s Best of Taos voting.
Best shoe store
Best farmers market
Best resale shop
n First Place
n First Place
n First Place
The Good Sole
Taos Farmers Market
Pieces Consignment Goods
1033 Paseo del Pueblo Sur, Taos (575) 737-5000 goodsole.com
400 Camino de la Placita (Town Hall parking lot) taosfarmersmarket.org
n Second Place
Red Willow Farmers Market
Steppin’ Out
120 Bent St., Taos (575) 758-4487 steppinout-taos.com
n Second Place 885 Star Road, Taos Pueblo (575) 770-8688
101 Sutton Place, Taos Ski Valley (575) 776-8719 207-A Paseo del Pueblo Sur, Taos (575) 758-2822 cottamsskishops.com
n Second Place Taos Mountain Outfitters
114 South Plaza, Taos (575) 758-9292 taosmountainoutfitters.com
1024 Paseo del Pueblo Sur, Taos (575) 737-0500 piecestaos.com
n Second Place CAV Thrift Store
1103 Paseo del Pueblo Sur (575) 751-4824 taoscav.org/en/thrift-store/
Best place to buy a souvenir n First Place Taos Pueblo
Best women’s clothing boutique n First Place Francesca’s Clothing Boutique
492 State Road 150, Arroyo Seco (575) 776-8776 styleintaos.com Tina Larkin
Vargas Tile earned enough votes for second place in the “Best Place to Buy Floor Coverings” category.
(575) 758-1028 (Tourism Dept.) taospueblo.com
n Second Place Millicent Rogers Museum Gift Shop 1504 Millicent Rogers Road, Taos (575) 758-2462 millicentrogers.org
n Second Place Michelle’s
136 Paseo del Pueblo Norte, Taos (575) 751-3450
Continued on page 30
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2013
Congratulations Nicole Martinez
2013 Best of Taos Grand Sweepstakes Winner Nicole Martinez (left) and her son Jesiah receives their prize from Production and IT director Ray Seale. Nicki won a new Apple iPad for voting in The Taos News’ online Best of Taos survey.
2013
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Th e Be s t of Ta o s 2 0 1 3 n Shop p i ng Continued from page 28
Best place to gear up for the trail n First Place Taos Mountain Outfitters
114 South Plaza, Taos (575) 758-9292 taosmountainoutfitters.com
n Second Place Mudd N Flood
103-A Bent St., Taos (575) 751-9100 muddnflood.com
Best outdoor shop n First Place Taos Mountain Outfitters
114 South Plaza, Taos (575) 758-9292 taosmountainoutfitters.com
n Second Place Mudd N Flood
103-A Bent St., Taos (575) 751-9100 muddnflood.com
Best place for a massage n First Place Ojo Caliente Mineral Springs Resort and Spa 50 Los Banos Drive, Ojo Caliente (800) 222-9162 ojospa.com
Francesca Medina from Francesca’s Clothing Boutique in Arroyo Seco, this year’s “Best Women’s Clothing Boutique.”
Best place to buy a pair of shades n First Place n Second Place SunShades of Taos 108 West Plaza, Taos (575) 751-1565 sunshadesoftaos.com
n Second Place
Taos Mountain Outfitters
114 South Plaza, Taos (575) 758-9292 taosmountainoutfitters.com
The Living Spa at El Monte Sagrado
317 Kit Carson Road, Taos (575) 758-3502 elmontesagrado.com
Tina Larkin
Best place to pamper your skin n First Place Ojo Caliente Mineral Springs Resort and Spa
50 Los Banos Drive, Ojo Caliente (800) 222-9162 ojospa.com
n Second Place The Living Spa at El Monte Sagrado
317 Kit Carson Road, Taos (575) 758-3502 elmontesagrado.com
Continued on page 32
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2013
Voted BEST Wi-Fi LOCATION - Thank You, Taos!
coffee cyber cafe gallery At La Posta Road & Felicidad - Behind Albertsons High-Speed Internet - WiFi Hotspot, Computer Rental or bring your own Private Office/Meeting Room Rental, Covered Patios, Beautiful Gardens Absolute BEST Coffees, Teas, Smoothies, Gourmet Foods Art Gallery Featuring Local Artists www.wiredcoffeeshop.com 575-751-WIRE Open 7 days a week
THANK YOU FOR CHOOSING US BEST PLACE TO BUY A MATTRESS Come see our New LiNe of mattresses!
Lisa Davis, CRS,GRI Associate Broker Prudential Taos Real Estate Office: 575-758-1924 Cell: 770-2938
Thank you all very much for your vote and your support! Three years in a row! Lisa :) lot in Vista Linda. Versatile floorplan. 1430 square feet, 3 bedrooms, two baths. Large mater bedroom (currently
perfect office. Built in 2006 the finishes throughout are Stained concrete floors. nces, breakfast counter and nced outdoor yards. West facing covered porch for sunset viewing! Built in book-
Mon - Fr: 10am- 6pm Saturday: 10am - 4pm Sunday: Closed t " 1BTFP EFM 1VFCMP 4VS
Best Realtor!
Best Realtor
www.enchantedtaos.com
Thank you Taos!
It’s an Honor to Serve You! #1 Business with the Best Customer Service #1 Best Hardware & Home Improvement Store And Check Out Our Locally Owned, Award-Winning Garden Center!
Fro m
, u o o k in g ! Y o C e k m o n H a ane’s h T J 2013
ry a M
the helpful place Locally Owned for over 40 years
1BTFP EFM 1VFCMP 4VS t 1BTFP EFM 1VFCMP 4VS www.riograndeacehardware.com
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Th e Be s t of Ta o s 2 0 1 3 n Shop p i ng Continued from page 30
Best place to buy a hot tub n First Place Wolfgang’s Spa Works 1210 Salazar Road, Taos (575) 758-1857 wolfgangspas.com
Best garden center and nursery n First Place
n Second Place
Petree’s Nursery & Greenhouses
Río Grande Ace Hardware
25 Petree Lane, Taos (575) 758-3021 petreenursery.com
1381 Paseo del Pueblo Sur, Taos (575) 758-4268 riograndeace.com
Best place to buy a mattress n First Place Taos LifeStyle
710 Paseo del Pueblo Sur, Taos (575) 758-5885 taoslifestyle.com
n Second Place Woody’s Furniture
206 Paseo del Cañon East, Taos (575) 751-3211
Best home furnisings n First Place Country Furnishings of Taos 534 Paseo del Pueblo Norte, Taos (575) 758-4633 cftaos.com
n Second Place Graystone Furniture and the Sofa Gallery
1010 Paseo del Pueblo Sur, Taos (575) 751-1266 graystonefurniture.com Tina Larkin
A wine-tasting event at the OBL Wine Shop, named “Best Liquor Store” in this year’s Best of Taos.
Best hardware and home improvement store n First Place
n Second Place
Río Grande Ace Hardware
Randall Lumber
1381 Paseo del Pueblo Sur, Taos (575) 758-4268 223 Paseo del Pueblo Sur, #1 (575) 751-2061 riograndeace.com
315 Paseo del Pueblo Sur, Taos (575) 758-2271 randalltaos.com
Continued on page 38
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Best place to buy floor coverings n First Place
n Second Place
Dan’s Carpets
Vargas Tile Company
7237 State Road 518, Ranchos de Taos (575) 758-2420
4114 State Road 68, Ranchos de Taos (575) 758-5986 vargastile.com
Continued on page 38 2013
Congratulations,
tHAnk YOu AgAin
Carla Gonzales, on winning Best Administrative Assistant in Taos County!
for Voting uS the BeSt of taos!
BeSt BreAkFASt “39� Years and Still Cooking
7 Days a week Hours: 7:00am to 2:30pm
We appreciate all of your hard work and dedication:
Dr. Nylund, Dr. Jakiela, Dr. Simms, Mary Lou, Kim, Linda, Nichole, Teresa, Anna, Candice, Lenore, Barbara, Sonya, Krystal, Kathy, Santana and Jenea
Open til 8pm Fri - Sun Full Menu Available All Hours LIMITED Catering Available / 1VFCMP 3PBE 5BPT t CMPDLT OPSUI PG UIF 1MB[B
575-758-4178
'VMM NFOV BU XXX NJDIBFMTLJUDIFO DPN PS DPNF CZ GPS ZPVS NFOV 2013
Taos Dental Group 1392 Weimer Road, Taos 575.758.8654 575.758.8303
Best of Taos County w taosnews.com/best of
33
The artist
N
obody seems surprised that Living Light Photography, Lenny Foster’s art gallery, has received a Best of Taos award for “Best Gallery.” Among the many people who have been inspired by the gallery are Joey Blue and Karla Joy Demers. “We are so happy for him,” said Blue. “Lenny’s art speaks to the cells of our souls, embracing and encouraging us to fulfill our life purpose. His energy, his work and that inspiring spot that is his gallery reflect the spirit we see in him.” “Lenny is so deserving of this award,” said Bonnie Lee Black, a Taos author and teacher. “He is a treasure and his gallery, a must-visit for anyone visiting Taos. It is also a perfect location for literary events.” As for Foster himself, he was delighted when he heard of the award. “I wasn’t expecting it,” he said. “But I am honored that the community appreciates my gallery and what I have done with it.” Originally from the Washington, D.C., area, Foster began his photography career in 1993, after he took a trip to the Southwest. The same year he settled in Taos, and has never looked back. In 2007 he was recognized as a Taos Living Master by the Taos Fall Arts Committee. In 2010 his image “Spirit of Bandelier” won the Patsy Schumacher Best of Show award at the Taos Fall Arts Festival. Foster’s photography has been shown at the Harwood Museum and the Albuquerque Museum and is part of the permanent collection at the Muhammad Ali Center in Louisville, Kentucky.
Living Light Photography:
where spirit
and art meet By Teresa Dovalpage
The gallery
F
oster’s goal as an artist and gallery owner isn’t just to have beautiful art on the walls, but create a space where people feel welcome and safe. “I am happy when someone comes in and experiences peace of mind here,” he said. “I have places for visitors to sit, relax and get in touch with their emotions.” He has even built an altar where people can leave pictures of loved ones, images of their favorite saints, like Saint Francis de Assisi, and prayers. In that sense, the gallery is a combination of art display and sanctuary. It is also a venue for community events, like book signings and poetry readings. Since he moved to the new space, on Kit Carson Road, Foster has worked hard to take his photography to a new level. “My work has always had a spiritual dimension,” he said. “I hope that my images have an emotional and spiritual impact on myself and on those who look at them.” Living Light Photography displays five distinct bodies of work.
Continued ON page 36
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Lenny Foster shoots a model at the E.I. Couse house/studio. Best of Taos County w taosnews.com/best of
2013
Tina Larkin
2013
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35
El Prado businesses along a stretch of U.S. 64. The proposed annexation of the roadway by the town of Taos has been the center of controversy between the town and Taos County.
Tina Larkin
What is the hottest topic in Taos?
T
By Joan Livingston
he hottest topic, from the answers we received, is politics, that is, politics Taos-style. So, according to our readers, we have bad government and bad politicians. And, if that wasn’t enough, we have corrupt government and corrupt politicians. One reader noted “political corruption at the local level” and another, “political in-fighting — childish.” Answers include political mayhem, nepotism and stupidity. Then, we have rotten politics. To be more specific, readers noted the airport expansion, annexation, and regional command center — in short, “city vs. county.” One person remarked, “County and town acting like India and Pakistan.” What were other hot topics? Art got many votes. Other popular topics were the Río Grande del Norte National Monument, economic development, and, because this is Taos, chemtrails. Then, we received this observation about Taos’ hottest topics by one person, “It changes weekly.” And this one from another, “It is a small town so it can be anything.”
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Because this is Taos, chemtrails made the list of answers provided as “The Hottest Topic” in town.
Shutterstock.com
2013
Continued from page 34
Thank You for picking us #
1 Johnny’s
Barber Shop 758-4286
Ruben & Carla
“The first is the ‘Fleur du Soleil’ sunflower series,� said Foster, adding that photographing the sunflowers worked as a healing process after the end of a relationship. “The project offered me both spiritual and emotional growth,� he said. The photos are named after emotions like longing, delight, affection, and, naturally, love. “Love, love again� is the close-up of an open flower. The secLiving light gallery ond project is a series of horses 107 Kit Carson called “DreamRoad time.� (575) 737-9150 “When lennyfoster.com I took these pictures, I discovered a level of trust and communication with animals that I hadn’t previously experienced,� said Foster. The third body of work is the “Peace, Prayer, Love: A Show of Hands� series. Foster began it in 1995, when he attended a healing ritual in Senegal, West Africa. “After that, I began to document praying hands from cultures around the world,� he said. His subjects range from 6 months to 106 years of age. “They are from all walks of life,� he said. “Ministers, healers, medicine men and women, artists, shamans, musicians, family and friends are all included in the collection.� There are hands holding flowers, canes, feathers, sacred beads, hats, and books. Healing Hands, the book that came out of this project, will be released in July 2013. The Spiritscape series takes its title from the blending of “spirit� and “landscape.� They combine human subjects and nature in seemingly perfect communion.
2013
Tina Larkin
My favorite is a “Bobcat Angel.� It depicts a bobcat operator with a beer gut and a cigar in his hand. Strangely enough, the white, fluffy angel wings do not look out of place in him. Finally, the “Calling All Angels� series is about ordinary people in everyday situations donning angel wings. My favorite is a “Bobcat Angel.� It depicts a Bobcat operator with a beer gut and a cigar in his hand. Strangely enough, the white, fluffy angel wings do not look out of place on him. “Some pictures were taken in my studio,� Foster said. “But I also traveled around with a set of wings in my car. When I found subjects that seemed appropriate, I asked them to pose for me.� The series includes a Roller Derby and a Laundromat angel. “My point is that angels in our lives can appear anywhere and at anytime, whether we recognized them as such or not,� said Foster. He considers his work, in general, as a creative vehicle for transcending times and for celebrating the beauty and the power of spirit. “When I came to Taos I had nothing but my camera and dreams,� said Foster. “Going from there to having a recognized gallery is more than I could have expected 20 years ago. I am very grateful for it.�
SALAZAR ROAD VETERINARY CLINIC
DR. KIm SIDES, DR. TRIShA ALbIN, DR. SuE FELSER
758-9115 r 4BMB[BS 3E 5BPT /.
Dear Taos Friends, Thank you for your votes and support of my music. I play for you and hope to for many more years! Jimmy and the Band
Photo by Bill Patterson
Lenny Foster at Living Light Gallery.
Thanks Taos for The VoTe of BesT VeTerinarian!
www.jimmystadler.com Best of Taos County w taosnews.com/best of
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Th e Be s t of Ta o s 2 0 1 3 n Shop p i ng Continued from page 32
Best jeweler n First Place Larry Martinez Jeweler
822 Paseo del Pueblo Sur, Taos (575) 758-4169 larrymartinezjeweler.com
n Second Place Chavez Fine Jewelers 622 Paseo del Pueblo Sur, Taos (575) 758-9319 chavezfinejewelers.com
Best liquor store n First Place OBL Wine Shop
100 State Road 150, El Prado (575) 776-8787
n Second Place Smith’s Food & Drug Center 224 Paseo del Pueblo Sur, Taos (575) 758-3711 smithsfoodanddrug.com
Taos Farmers Market earned voter support as “Best Place to Buy Fruit & Veggies,” “Best Place to Buy Flowers” and “Best Farmers Market.”
Best place for pet supplies n First Place Taos Tack and Pet Supply
710 Paseo del Pueblo Sur, Taos (575) 737-9798 taostackandpetsupply.com
Best place to fill up your tank n First Place
n Second Place
Smith’s Food & Drug Center
Northside Allsup’s
224 Paseo del Pueblo Sur, Taos (575) 758-3711 smithsfoodanddrug.com
507 Paseo del Pueblo Norte, Taos (575) 758-0037
Tina Larkin
Best place to ship a package n First Place Jack Wrap It Global
925 Paseo del Pueblo Sur, Taos (575) 751-1111
n Second Place UPS Store
1008 Paseo del Pueblo Sur, Taos (575) 758-8647 theupsstore.com
n Second Place Blue Sky Pet and Feed Supply
214 Paseo del Pueblo Sur, Taos (575) 758-1841
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2013
THANKS, TAOS! YOU’RE THE BEST!
The Best and Lowest Prices Every Day On Everything! No more waiting for daily sales!
Donate, Shop and Contribute to Taos County’s Best Non-Profit *as voted by readers of the Taos News. Open Monday-Saturday 10 am-6 pm Donations of gently used furniture, household items, books, jewelry, accessories, clothes and other necessities gratefully accepted MondayWednesday –Friday during store hours and Saturday 10:30-2:30
CAV THRIFT STORE 1103 Paseo del Pueblo Sur Next to Quality Inn
THANK YOU TAOS Hair, Make-Up and Photo by Marjorie
4" -0 / t 4 1"
(575) 751-7246 237 Ledoux St. Taos, NM salonmarjorie.com
2013
FOR VOTING US ONE OF THE “BEST� ONCE AGAIN! Lota ReaLty, Inc. 204 Paseo deL PuebLo noRte t www.cblotataos.com
Best of Taos County w taosnews.com/best of
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The Be s t of Ta o s 2 0 1 3 n T h i ng s to D o Best annual event in taos county n First Place Fiestas de Taos Taos Plaza July 19-21, 2013 fiestasdetaos.com
n Second Place
best hiking/jogging trail n First Place n Second Place Williams Lake
Wheeler Peak Wildnerness Area, Carson National Forest taostrails.com/williams_lake.html
Taos Solar Music Festival
Kit Carson Park June 6, 2013 solarmusicfest.com
Wild Rivers Area of the Río Grande Gorge
North of Questa (575) 586-1150 - visitors center blm.gov/nm/st/en/ prog/recreation/ taos/wild_rivers_ rec_area.html
most interesting place to take visitors n First Place Taos Pueblo
(575) 758-1028 (Tourism Dept.) taospueblo.com
n Second Place Río Grande Gorge Bridge U.S. 64 toward Tres Piedras
best place to soak n First Place Ojo Caliente Mineral Springs Resort & Spa
50 Los Banos Drive, Ojo Caliente (800) 222-9162 ojospa.com
n Second Place Black Rock Hot Springs
(aka Hondo Hot Spring) West of John Dunn Bridge, Arroyo Hondo taos.org/outdoors/ rio-grande
best weekend getaway n First Place n Second Place Ojo Caliente Mineral Springs Resort and Spa
Taos Ski Valley State Road 150, Taos Ski Valley (866) 968-7386 skitaos.org
50 Los Banos Drive, Ojo Caliente (800) 222-9162 ojospa.com
Best ski & snowboard area n First Place Taos Ski Valley State Road 150, Taos Ski Valley (866) 968-7386 skitaos.org
n Second Place Angel Fire Resort
Miller Lane, Angel Fire (800) 633-7463 angelfireresort.com Tina Larkin
Getting Outside! is one of the more esoteric Best of Taos winners this year, garnering second place in the “Best Cheap Thrill” category.
Continued on page 42
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Best of Taos County w taosnews.com/best of
2013
Courtesy of Columbia Pictures
54 Proudly giving our readers only the very BEST for 54 YEARS
Courtesy of Columbia Pictures
Proudly named the best weekly newspaper in the nation 4 of the last 5 years and best weekly newspaper in New mexico 10 of the last 12 years*
The Taos News
PRINT | ONLINE @ TaOsNEws.cOm *National Newspaper Association’s Best Large Weekly 2012, 2011, 2010, 2008, 2007
2013
Local Media Association’s Best Large Weekly 2012 New Mexico Press Association’s Best Large Weekly 2012, 2010, 2009, 2008, 2006, 2005, 2004, 2003, 2002, 2001
Best of Taos County w taosnews.com/best of
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The Be s t of Ta o s 2 0 1 3 n T h i ng s to D o Continued from page 40
Best rafting company n First Place Los Ríos River Runners
4003 State Road 68, Ranchos de Taos (800) 544-1181 losriosriverrunners. com
n Second Place Far Flung Adventures
(800) 359-2627 farflung.com
best place to enjoy free wifi n First Place Wired? CoffeeCyber-Cafe
705 Felicidad Lane, Taos (575) 751-9473 wiredcoffeeshop. com
n Second Place Elevation Coffee 1110 Paseo del Pueblo Norte, El Prado (575) 779-6078 elevationcoffeetaos. com
Courtesy Taos Ski Valley
Taos Ski Valley earned voter acclaim in the “Best Weekend Getaway” and “Best Ski & Snowboard Area” categories.
Best place for kids to have fun n First Place Twirl Toystore & Playspace 225 Camino de la Placita (575) 751-1402 twirlhouse.com
n Second Place Outside in Nature!
best cheap thrill n First Place Taos Plaza Live! Taos Plaza Every Thursday, May 23-Sept. 5 taosplazalive.com
n Second Place Get Outside!
“hiking, biking, bird watching, fishing, skiing”
best place to take a dip n First Place n Second Place Ojo Caliente Mineral Springs Resort & Spa 50 Los Banos Drive, Ojo Caliente (800) 222-9162 ojospa.com
42
Taos Plaza Live! was voted “Best Cheap Thrill” this year by readers of The Taos News.
Tina Larkin
Taos Youth and Family Center 407 Paseo del Cañon East, Taos (575) 758-4160 taosyouth.com
Best of Taos County w taosnews.com/best of
2013
FAMILY AND FRIENDS ON THE SOUTH SIDE... 1ST PLAcE BEST GYM/ WORKKOUT FAcILITY SINcE 2003 THANK YOU AGAIN TAOS!
Thank you
Taos County & Moreno Valley for Voting Us
Best Place to Buy Floor Coverings for Four Years in a Row
Celebrating 25 Years Serving Taos
Dan’sCarpets
)"3%800% t 5*-& t 8*/%08 $07&3*/(4 3BODIPT EF 5BPT 7237 Highway 518 t
575-758-2420 t danscarpet@yahoo.com 2013
On the e South Sid Some Restrictions Apply
758-1980 www.taosspa.com Best of Taos County w taosnews.com/best of
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Elliot Combs-Wakefield, 3, pictured through the gate at Twirl Toystore and Playspace.
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Best of Taos County w taosnews.com/best of
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Twirl still the best place for By Cody Olivas
T
oys, by nature, are supposed to be fun, and the Twirl Toy Store and Play Space in Taos not only makes sure that it carries fun toys, but that the store itself is a fun place to be. Twirl is not only a toy store, it’s also a playground featuring an indoor fountain, a spiral staircase and an Ali Baba fireplace. “The outdoor play space distinguishes Twirl from other specialty toy retailers,” Nikki Ross, Twirl’s marketing director, said. “There aren’t many toy stores where you can play outside for free in a huge playground on a bunch of really cool installations. Other toy stores do offer classes and activities, but again we are different in that we don’t charge a fee for these, which makes Twirl particularly accessible and welcoming for all our customers.” Taoseños have taken notice of the store, voting it the best place for kids to have fun in Taos for five years in a row now. “Our vision was to create a magical toy store and play space that involves and inspires both children and adults,” Ross said. “I think our underlying philosophy is to always strive for the most imaginative and creative way possible to bring this vision to life, whether that is in the products we offer in-store, the installations we have in our courtyard, the activities we provide in our play space, the wrapping paper we choose, our marketing communications, our customer service, or the community parties we throw for special holidays. We put care and attention into everything we do, and I think people recognize and appreciate that above all else.” One of the only complaints people have about Twirl is their kids never want to leave the store. Of course, if they take home an EzyRoller, Boogie Board or an arts and crafts kit, they can have plenty of fun at home, too. Adults also seem to have fun at Twirl, and mustacheinspired toys seem to be a hit among them. “We take care to make sure our products are presented in an interesting and inspiring way, not just piled high on the shelf, but with some thought to it and with a bit of humor added to the mix wherever possible, to make the shopping experience itself fun,” Ross said. “In fact, we often get reviews from customers who don’t have kids but still make a point of visiting Twirl because it’s a fun place to browse and explore. Receiving this award for the fifth year in a row is a tribute not just to everyone who works at Twirl, but to our customers, too; Twirl just wouldn’t be Twirl without their continued support, and we appreciate them daily.”
kids to have fun in Taos
Ballet class with instructor Casandra Romero at Twirl.
Tina Larkin
Tina Larkin
Twirl Toystore and Playspace is fun inside and out.
2013
Tina Larkin
Best of Taos County w taosnews.com/best of
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The Be s t of Ta o s 2 0 1 3 n En t erta i n m en t
Best SpanishLanguage Band or Performer n First Place El Grupo Mezcal (575) 776-2106 facebook.com
n Second Place Darren Córdova y Calor
Local wunderkind Max Gomez was voted second place for “Best Local Singer/Songwriter.”
darrencordovaycalor. com
Best Place to Hit the Jackpot n First Place Taos Mountain Casino
700 Veterans Highway (575) 737-0777 taosmountaincasino. com
n Second Place Buffalo Thunder Resort and Casino 20 Buffalo Thunder Trail, Santa Fe (877) 455-7775 buffalothunder resort.com
Tina Larkin
Best Local Singer/ Songwriter n First Place Jimmy Stadler
(575) 776-8234 or (575) 770-7712 jimmystadler.com
n Second Place Max Gomez
maxgomezmusic. com
Best Local Jazz Group or Performer n First Place Omar Rane
(575) 779-1087 tonepalace.com
n Second Place Christine Autumn
christineautumn.com
best Local Radio Personality n First Place n Second Place Paddy Mac, KTAO
9 State Road 150, Taos (575) 758-5826 ktaos.com
Michael Dean, KKIT 125 Camino de la Merced (575) 758-4491 kkitthemountain. com
Jimmy Stadler was voted “Best Local Singer/Songwriter” and “Best Local Rock Group or Performer.”
Tina Larkin
Continues on page 48
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“A History of Elegance�
Thank You Taos for Voting us the
#1 Repair Shop in Taos 12 Years Running
S ince 1630
The Benavides and McCarthy families have been making Taos a More Beautiful Place
T hank you for voting us Best B & B again for 2013.
Our success really belongs to the people of Taos. They have supported and encouraged us to succeed and we are truly grateful. We were born and raised here and have never wanted to be anyplace else. Taos is our home! TaoseĂąos are our people. Tom & Barbara McCarthy
7IVZMGI ˆ 4EVXW ˆ 4VIQMYQ 8MVIW -QTSVX ˆ (SQIWXMG 7IVZMRK 8ESW 7MRGI ˆ
Casa Benavides ,JU $BSTPO 3E t t www.taos-casabenavides.com
Thank You for Your Vote!
1 B U B H P O J B t 1 S B O B t , V I M t 4 N B S U X P P M .PVOUBJO )BSEXFBS t 4NJUI 0QUJDT
THANK YOU TAOS We are Taos’
beST plAce
Taos’s Personal Jeweler for Over 30 Years! 171 Paseo de Peralta DeVargas Center Santa Fe
622 Paseo del Pueblo Sur PiĂąon Plaza Taos
505-988-8009
575-758-9319 www.chavezfinejewelers.com 2013
To Gear Up for the Trail
Open Daily 103 A Bent St. (near Taos Inn) 575-751-9100 0 T Q S F Z t " T P M P t # M B D L % J B N P O E t $ I B D P 7JCSBN 'JOHFST t $BNFMCBL t 3FFG Best of Taos County w taosnews.com/best of
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The Be s t of Ta o s 2 0 1 3 n En t erta i n m en t Continued from page 46
best Local Rock Band or Performer n First Place n Second Place Jimmy Stadler
(575) 776-8234 or (575) 770-7712 jimmystadler.com
Monkey Feeders
myspace.com or facebook.com
Best local country band or performer n First Place Michael Hearne michaelhearne.com
Best Live Music Venue n First Place KTAOS Solar Center
n Second Place Kim and the Caballeros (575) 758-7840 kimandthecaballeros. com
9 State Road 150, Taos (575) 758-5826 ktaos.com
n Second Place Adobe Bar at the Historic Taos Inn
125 Paseo del Pueblo Norte, Taos (575) 758-5826 taosinn.com
Tina Larkin
Lightning struck twice for Omar Rane, as he was voted “Best Local Jazz Group or Performer,” and his band the Monkey Feeders earned second place in the “Best Local Rock Group or Performer” category.
best Place to Shake Your Booty n First Place n Second Place
best Radio Station n First Place
KTAOS Solar Center
KTAO 101.9
9 State Road 150, Taos (575) 758-5826 ktaos.com
Taos Mesa Brewing
20 ABC Mesa Road, El Prado (575) 758-1900 taosmesabrewing. com
9 State Road 150, Taos (575) 758-5826 ktaos.com
Tina Larkin
Readers of The Taos News voted the KTAOS Solar Center as the area’s “Best Live Music Venue” and “Best Place to Shake Your Booty.”
n Second Place KKIT 95.9
125 Camino de la Merced (575) 758-4491 kkitthemountain.com
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Best of Taos County w taosnews.com/best of
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Thank You Taos For Voting Us 1st Place To Buy Pet Supplies
Phoenix Mechanical THANKS YOU ALL SO MUCH for choosing us
Best of Taos, 2013. 758-3027 We are honored. rmdraper@laplaza.org
Raton Bypass/ Gusdorf Road License # 61030
Thanks
to our Loyal customers for voting us Best of Taos! 4114 State Road 68 Ranchos de Taos 505.758.5986 www.vargastile.com
Jackie, Tom and Monica
Taos Tack and PeT suPPly 5PQ 2VBMJUZ )PSTF 1FU $BSF 1SPEVDUT #FTU PG 5BPT 710 Paseo del Pueblo Sur, Taos
575-737-9798 t XXX UBPTUBDLBOEQFUTVQQMZ DPN
Thank You!
Thru Oct 26 To the Taos Community for selecting Lucas Schreiber, MD - 1st Place Ellen Warren, MD - 2nd Place
AS ThE BEST DoCTorS in ToWn! 2013
Family Practice Associates of Taos Same Day Urgent Care
Mon. - Fri. 8am - 4:30pm, Sat. 9 - 11:30am 630 Paseo del Pueblo Sur, Suite 150
758-3005
Se Habla EspaĂąol
Best of Taos County w taosnews.com/best of
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Th e Be s t of Ta o s 2 0 1 3 n S E RV IC E S
Tina Larkin
Salon Marjorie earned “Best Hair Salon” in this year’s Best of Taos.
best real estate agent n First Place n Second Place Lisa Davis, Prudential Taos Real Estate 314-A Paseo del Pueblo Norte, Taos (575) 758-1924 enchantedtaos.com
Diane Enright, Prudential Taos Real Estate 314-A Paseo del Pueblo Norte, Taos (575) 758-1924 taoshomes.com
Best customer service n First Place Río Grande Ace Hardware 1381 Paseo del Pueblo Sur, Taos (575) 758-4268 223 Paseo del Pueblo Sur, #1 (575) 751-2061 riograndeace.com
n Second Place Peoples Bank
1100 Paseo del Pueblo Sur, Taos (575) 758-5999 219 Paseo del Pueblo Norte, Taos (575) 758-4211 bankingunusual.com
Best real estate agency n First Place Prudential Taos Real Estate
314-A Paseo del Pueblo Norte, Taos (575) 758-1924 prudentialtaosrealestate.com
n Second Place Coldwell Banker Lota Realty Inc. 204 Paseo del Pueblo Norte, Taos (575) 758-8673 cblotataos.com
best hair salon n first Place Salon Marjorie 237 Ledoux St., Taos (575) 751-7246 salonmarjorie.com
n Second Place Salon X
212 Kit Carson Road, Taos (575) 758-1584 salonxtaos.com
best barber shop n First Place Johnny’s Barbershop
308 Paseo del Pueblo Sur, Taos (575) 758-4286
n Second Place Gil’s Barbershop 720 Paseo del Pueblo Sur, Taos (575) 758-9717
Continued ON page 54
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2013
Thank You!
Thank You, Taos!
For voting Moby Dickens The Best Bookshop in Taos County 14 years in a row!
Your support as donors and volunteers makes CAV Taos County’s Best Non-Profit‌
Out of print & special orders are our specialty!
Fostering and supporting communities free from all forms of domestic and sexual violence‌
Located in the Historic District of Taos
124 A Bent St r 575.758.3050 r www.mobydickens.com
5)"/, :06 7PUFE #FTU .FYJDBO 'PPE OE 1MBDF
Call 758-8082 to volunteer Donate online at taoscav.org or Shop the CAV Thrift Store
24 Hour Domestic / Sexual Violence Crisis Line 758-9888
(SFBU EFBMT GPS PVS TVQQPSUFST Now Serving in Longmont, CO!
XXX BOUPOJPTPęBPT DPN PO USJQ BEWJTPS PVU PG SFTUBVSBOUT
Community Against Violence, Inc. Founded 1978
t %PĂ—B -V[ 4USFFU 5BPT /.
THANKS TAOS
We Enjoy Serving You!
BEST PLACE TO FILL UP YOUR TANK
BEST LIQUOR STORE
BEST GROCERY
CONGRATULATIONS TO ALL OTHER BEST OF TAOS WINNERS!
224 Paseo del Pueblo Sur 758-3711 - Grocery 758-4824 - Pharmacy 2013
Best of Taos County w taosnews.com/best of
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Taoseño?
Your credentials, please
S
Tina Larkin
Austin James Cobb-Coward (the first baby born in Taos in 2013) can honestly claim to be a Taoseño; he was born here. Here he is with father Jason Coward.
o how do you know you’re a Taoseño? This was definitely the most popular question of the four we posed in our Best of Taos survey. The answers definitely reflect two ways of thinking. On one side, many people decided to quantify Taos citizenship by the amount of years lived here. On the other, being a Taoseño appears to be a state of mind or being. To some the answer was quantified by the number of years you’ve lived here: from 5, 20, 25, 30. If your family has been here 400 years, at least since 1580 one reader said, then you’re definitely a Taoseño. Most agreed you are a Taoseño if you were born here. Someone wrote, “You’re never a Taoseño unless you were born here, but you’re close after living here seven years.” The “Taos state of being” for many people includes loving the local food, specifically chile. One person answered, “When Christmas is something you eat and celebrate.” Being a Taoseño means “being relaxed about being relaxed,” aka enjoying Taos time. Here are some sample answers. “You don’t notice mud on your car.” “When you say, ‘it’s good enough’.” “You stop washing your car and polishing your shoes.” “You don’t replace your broken windshield wiper till monsoon season.” Then, there’s that all-important comfort factor, like feeling at ease wearing pajamas to the store. One person observed, “When you develop dreadlocks and become an artist.” According to readers, a Taoseño gives and gets lots of hugs, points with the chin instead of a finger, and greets with a wave, hand slap, followed by a knuckle bump. For many, being a Taoseño is embracing Taos, warts and all, as in “when you finally learn to just roll with all the weirdness.” Then, there is “someone criticizes Taos and you say, “Yes, but we love it.” And, of course, you are an official Taoseño “when the mountain accepts you.” —By Joan Livingston
Of the three words submitted, “beautiful” was used 27 percent of the time, “mountains” only two percent. But surely the two go hand-in-hand?
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Best of Taos County w taosnews.com/best of
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Taos in three words
W
e asked readers to use three words to describe Taos. As this sampling shows, those who responded were rather creative, almost poetic we would say. And here it is — an ode to Taos. Peaceful crazy paradoxical n Eclectic artistic beautiful n Dry pretty light n Light weather unpredictable n Beauty family history n Soulful beautiful enchanting n Amazingly beautiful awesome n State of mind n Groovy artistic mountains n Intimate unique backwards n Aromatic expansive surprising n Wild Rusty Dry n Beautiful magical peaceful n Ancient new now n Relax Enjoy smell n Three cultures n
harmony sweet home n Everybody fits in n Doesn’t get it n Majestic funky enchanted n Colorful ageless unique n For the Sole n Red or green n High Extreme Beautiful n Friendly active earthy n Skiing rafting Sipapu n Stars peaks scents n Quiet free-spirited an adventure n Unique artsy southwest n Beautiful extreme glorious n Cool high creative n Beautiful calming eclectic n Non-conformist quirky peaceful n Artistic food friendly n Small family fun n Historic Sustainable Maravilloso n Incredible beautiful spacious n Free diversified cluttered n Quaint Flaky Mystical n Fun diverse relaxing n Artsy spiritual Southwestern n Hometown beautiful amazing n Wild Ruff Reckless n Sunshine sage outdoors n Home
n Off-the-Grid
otherworldly and vibrant n Beautiful small mountains n Majestic serene friendly n Eclectic breathable funky n Peace of heaven n Racial strife spiritual n Magical relaxing bellisima n Artsy historic lively n Beautiful quiet fun n Beautiful and enjoyable n Interesting beautiful kind n Majestic colonial beautiful n Fun Happy Creative n Hiking skiing biking n Amazing small boring n Awesome ski valley n Peaceful little town n Sunny rich interesting n Welcoming challenging worthwhile n Awesome fun grand n Small beautiful fun n Quiet beautiful majestic n Turquoise mountain mystery n Diverse dreads sunsets n Beautiful creative inspiring n Spontaneous joyful whole n The best around n Best food ever —Joan Livingston
TIna Larkin
2013
Best of Taos County w taosnews.com/best of
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Th e Be s t of Ta o s 2 0 1 3 n Serv ic e s Continued from page 50
Best place to play tennis
best bed and breakfast n First Place n Second Place Casa Benavides
137 Kit Carson Road (575) 758-1772 taos-casabenavides.com
Adobe & Pines Inn 4107 State Road 68 (575) 751-0947 adobepines.com
n First Place
Best gym and workout facility n First Place Taos Spa & Tennis Club
111 Doña Ana Dr., Taos (575) 758-1980 taosspa.com
n Second Place Northside Health and Fitness
Taos Tennis at Quail Ridge
best visitor lodging n First Place n Second Place El Monte Sagrado
317 Kit Carson Road, Taos (575) 758-3502 elmontesagrado. com
Ojo Caliente Mineral Springs Resort & Spa 50 Los Banos Drive, Ojo Caliente (800) 222-9162 ojospa.com
1307 Paseo del Pueblo Norte, El Prado (575) 751-1242 taosnorthsidespa. com
88 State Road 150, El Prado (575) 776-3447 taostennis.com
n Second Place Taos Spa & Tennis Club 111 Doña Ana Dr., Taos (575) 758-1980 taosspa.com
Best place to say “I do” n First Place El Monte Sagrado
317 Kit Carson Road, Taos (575) 758-3502 elmontesagrado.com
n Second Place Ojo Caliente Mineral Springs Resort & Spa
50 Los Banos Drive, Ojo Caliente (800) 222-9162 ojospa.com
best doctor n First Place Dr. Lucas Schreiber
630 Paseo del Pueblo Sur, Suite 150 (575) 758-3005 familypracticeassociatesoftaos.com
n Second Place Dr. Ellen Warren
630 Paseo del Pueblo Sur, Suite 150 (575) 758-3005 familypracticeassociatesoftaos.com
Tina Larkin
Dr. Kellie Harris was voted “Best Dentist” by readers of The Taos News. Continued on page 56
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Thanks, Taos! You make us the best year after year!
Thank You Taos for Voting Us Best Hip Local Shop!
110 DoĂąa Luz 575 751-7553
4"-&4 t ."*/5 t 4&37*$&
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The Staff Thanks Everyone Who Voted for Us for Best Place to Satisfy Your Sweet Tooth TAOS COW ICE CREAM CO. CAFÉ & DELI
776-5640
OPEN 7AM TO 7PM, 7 DAYS A WEEK LOCATED IN DOWNTOWN ARROYO SECO
Thank you Taos!
photo: Sarah hearne
It’s So YOU!
Voted Best Local Performer in 2013!!
www.michaelhearne.com
The Art of Fine Jewelry Making for Over 40 Years... Right Here in Taos
L A R RY M A RT I N E Z J EW E L E R 822 Paseo del Pueblo Sur across from El TaoseĂąo in Taos
575.758.4169
2013
Best of Taos County w taosnews.com/best of
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Th e Be s t of Ta o s 2 0 1 3 n Serv ic e s Continued from page 54
Tina Larkin
Lisa Davis (right) and Diane Enright gave Prudential Taos Real Estate a clean sweep in the “Best Real Estate Agent” category.
Best financial advisor n First Place Ric Tredwin (Edward Jones) 707 Paseo del Pueblo Sur, Taos (575) 751-7285 edwardjones.com
n Second Place Billy Knight (Knight Financial Limited)
115 La Posta Road, Taos (575) 751-3388
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Best of Taos County w taosnews.com/best of
best bank n First Place n Second Place
best Veterinarian n First Place
Peoples Bank
Salazar Road Veterinary Clinic
1356 Paseo del Pueblo Sur, Taos (575) 758-4500 219 Paseo del Pueblo Norte, Taos (575) 758-4211 710 Paseo del Pueblo Sur, Taos (inside Albertson’s) (575) 758-5999 121 East Main, Unit 4D, Red River (575) 754-6224 5 Super Market Road, Questa (575) 586-2001 bankingunusual. com
Centinel Bank
512 Paseo del Pueblo Sur, Taos (575) 758-6700 707 Paseo del Pueblo Norte, Taos (575) 758-6790 centinelbank.com
1025 Salazar Road, Taos (575) 758-9115 salazarroadvetclinic. com
n Second Place Dr. Ted Schupbach (Taos Veterinary Clinic)
41 State Road 522, Taos (575) 758-7310 taosvetclinic.com
2013
Best local website n First Place taosnews. com (The Taos News) 226 Albright St., Taos (575) 758-2241
n Second Place ktaos.com (KTAOS Solar Radio)
9 State Road 150, Taos (575) 758-5826
best dentist n First Place Dr. Kellie Harris (Northern New Mexico Center for Cosmetic Dentistry) 1337-A Gusdorf Road, Taos (575) 751-9661 kellieharrisdds.com
n Second Place Dr. Tom Simms
1392 Weimer Road, Taos (575) 758-8303
best local elected official n First Place n Second Place Darren Córdova, town of Taos mayor
400 Camino de la Placita (575) 751-2000; dcordova@taosgov. com taosgov.com
Dan Barrone, Taos County Commissioner 105 Albright St., Suite G, Taos (575) 737-6303
THANK YOU FOR VOTING US BEST OF TAOS “We are proud to serve Taos” Holley Mechanical
Plumbing and Heating Luther Holley, John Gonzales, Randel Vazela 758-8733
best plumber n First Place Phoenix Mechanical
THANK YOU TAOS FOR VOTING US BEST PLACE TO PLAY TENNIS
1217 Gusdorf Road, Taos (575) 758-3027 phoenixmechanical. net
n Second Place Luther Holley Mechanical
Taos Tennis at Quail Ridge Taos
112 Este Es, Taos (575) 758-8733
best local nonprofit organization n First Place n Second Place Community Against Violence
(575) 758-8082 taoscav.org
Stray Hearts Animal Shelter 1200 St. Francis Lane, Taos (575) 758-2981 strayhearts.org
Best green business n First Place Cid’s Food Market
Ric Tredwin
623 Paseo del Pueblo Norte, Taos (575) 758-1148 cidsfoodmarket.com
Financial Advisor .
707 Paseo Del Pueblo Sur Taos, NM 87571 575-751-7285
n Second Place Petree’s Nursery & Greenhouses
25 Petree Lane, Taos (575) 758-3021 petreenursery.com
575-751-7285
Member SIPC
www.edwardjones.com
Continued on page 58 2013
Thank you to our clients. You are the reason we are the Best Financial Advisor. Best of Taos County w taosnews.com/best of
57
Th e Be s t of Ta o s 2 0 1 3 n Serv ic e s Continued from page 57
Best place to get inked n First Place Talisman Tattoo 226 Paseo del Pueblo Sur, Taos (575) 758-5465 talismantattootaos. net
n Second Place Local Boyz
1111 Paseo del Pueblo Sur, Taos (575) 776-7294
Best civic organization n First Place
Carla Gonzales (Taos Cosmetic Dental Center) 1392-A Weimer Road, Taos (575) 758-8654 taoscosmetic dentalcenter.com
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Best of Taos County w taosnews.com/best of
Michelle Abeyta (Enos García Elementary School) 305 Don Fernando St., Taos (575) 737-6070 taosschools.org
n Second Place Brown & Brown Insurance 627 Paseo del Pueblo Sur, Taos (575) 758-2244 bbinsurance.com
Best auto repair shop n First Place Metric Motors
n Second Place
n Second Place
taoslions.org
best administrative assistant n First Place n Second Place
211 Kit Carson Road, Taos (575) 737-5433 wandalucero.com
taosrotary.org
Lions Club of Taos
Taos Spa & Tennis Club was voted “Best Gym and Workout Facility” as well as “Best Place to Play Tennis.”
Wanda Lucero (State Farm)
1314 Paseo del Pueblo Sur, Taos (575) 758-1658 metricmotorstaos. com
Taos Milagro Rotary Club
Tina Larkin
Best insurance company n First Place
best building contractor n First Place
Taos Offroad & Performance 1010 Dea Lane, Taos (575) 758-7144 taosoffroad.com
J.J. Pollard & Associates LLC 112 Este Es Road (575) 751-7775
n Second Place Magee Design 208 Paseo del Pueblo Sur, #201, Taos (575) 770-3002 jedmagee.com
2013