Best of Taos 2016 by The Taos News

Thank You Taos For Voting For Ojo Best Weekend Getaway • Best Place to take a Dip • Best Place to Soak Best Place to Pamper your Skin • Best Place for a Massage We are committed to protecting the relaxing tranquility of this sacred place. 505.583.2233

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BEST OF TAOS 2016

the best of taos

FOR THE PEOPLE, BY THE PEOPLE

est of Taos is not political-style voting. It’s really not the least bit scientific or predictive. In this annual poll of Taoseños, frequent visitors and ex-pats, we seek to find out what local service providers, food, watering holes, galleries, retailers (and many other categories) you like best. The votes aren’t bought. There are no chards to inspect. No court gets involved. No lines. No I.D. required. No protestors. No super PACs. The Taos News employees do not vote or factor into the results in any way whatsoever. Over the last 18 years, The Best of Taos has remained just a straight-up count; the most votes win. Opinions are just that and don’t always reflect everyone’s choices, but we feel this is the fairest system. If any of the results are displeasing to you, then spread the word for who you think is deserving in the 2017 survey, which will be available in March or April of next year. Back in 1998, when the Best of Taos issue was born, surveys were filled out on paper ballots, stuffed into garbage bags and tossed into the editor’s office. Since 2012, we’ve put the survey online so readers can directly respond making the process much smoother, plus the editor isn’t found drowning in paper mumbling something about blurry vision and paper cuts. Many thanks to the 2,333 people who cast their votes and responded to our essay questions. The latter are always good for a laugh, debate or sometimes they just trigger a contemplating chin scratch. From all of us at The Taos News, a hearty congratulations to the winners. Look for Best of Taos banners peppered throughout town. — Scott Gerdes, special sections editor

contents features

best breakfast

WHAT IS THE WEIRDEST THING YOU EVER SAW IN TAOS?

‘The in crowd,’ by Virginia L. Clark

TAOS DINER

we asked, you answered

WHAT INDUSTRY WOULD YOU LIKE TO SEE IN TAOS?

best beer selection

TAOS MESA BREWING Beer geeks, by John Miller

we asked, you answered

WHAT TAOS CONSPIRACY IS THE MOST LIKELY TO BE TRUE?

best local rock shop

TAOS GEMS AND MINERALS Rocks for the masses, by Cody Hooks

best pet groomer

we asked, you answered

best jazz performer CHRISTINE AUTUMN

All about healing, by Andy Jones

best local radio personality PADDY MAC

A peek at the man behind the mic, by Jordan Miera

we asked, you answered

WHAT IS YOUR FAVORITE TAOS EXPERIENCE?

best educator

SALLY GREYWOLF

The luckiest teacher in Taos, by Teresa Dovalpage

best of taos results

10,000 WAGS PET RESORT

Happy tails, by Laurie Celine

best place to buy that perfect card GARDEN & SOUL

Creative, personal and chocolaty, by Cindy Brown

‘the taoseños view of the world’ Illustration by Bill Baron

best food & drink best shopping

best things to do

best entertainment

best services

TAOS NEWS STAFF: Robin Martin, owner • Chris Baker, publisher • Damon Scott, editor • Chris Wood, advertising manager • Scott Gerdes, special sections editor Michelle M. Gutierrez, lead editorial designer • Karin Eberhardt, production manager • Katharine Egli, photographer • COVER DESIGN: Michelle M. Gutierrez STAFF WRITERS: Laurie Celine, Cody Hooks, Jordan Miera • CONTRIBUTING WRITERS: Cindy Brown, Virginia L. Clark, Teresa Dovalpage, Andy Jones, Joan Livingston, John Miller • CONTRIBUTING ILLUSTRATOR: Bill Baron

BEST OF TAOS 2016

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Paseo del Pueblo Taos 575.758.5885 710 710 Paseo del Pueblo Sur, Taos Sur 575.758.5885 taoslifestyle.com taoslifestyle.com Open SundaySat: 11-4 Store Hours: Sun: 11am-4pm Mon-Fri: 10am-6pm 10am-5pm

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BEST OF TAOS 2016

best food & drink

*winners listed first and second, respectively

best restaurant best brunch in taos county GUTIZ THE LOVE APPLE

803 Paseo del Pueblo Norte, Taos (575) 751-0050 theloveapple.net

812 Paseo del Pueblo Norte, Taos (575) 758-1226 gutiztaos.com

MICHAEL’S KITCHEN

304-C Paseo del Pueblo Norte, Taos (575) 758-4178 michaelskitchen.com

LAMBERT’S OF TAOS 123 Bent Street, Taos (575) 758-1009 lambertsoftaos.com

best breakfast burrito

best new restaurant MEDLEY.

100 State Road 150, El Prado (575) 776-8787 medleyinelprado.com

JETHRO’S GENUINE TEXAS BARBEQUE

630 Paseo del Pueblo Sur, Taos (575) 770-4317 (575) 770-5801 jethrosbbqtaos.com

ABE’S CANTINA Y COCINA 489 State Road 150, Arroyo Seco (575) 776-8643 (575) 776-8516 facebook.com/ AbesCantinaYCocina

MANTE’S CHOWCART 402 Paseo del Pueblo Sur, Taos (575) 758-3632 facebook.com/ TheChowCart(Mantes)

best breakfast TAOS DINER

North: 908 Paseo del Pueblo Norte, Taos (575) 758-2374 South: 216-B Paseo del Pueblo Sur, Taos (575) 751-1989 taosdiner.com

best food & drink continues on Page 8

MICHAEL’S KITCHEN

304-C Paseo del Pueblo Norte, Taos (575) 758-4178 michaelskitchen.com

Katharine Egli

Breakfast heaven at Taos Diner.

BEST OF TAOS 2016

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New Mexican Cafe 1st Place: Best New Mexican Food • Best Red • Best Green Thank you Taoseños for your loyal support and referrals! -Orlando, Yvette and Crew

1.8 Miles North of Taos Plaza www.facebook.com/ OrlandosNewMexicanCafe

575.751.1450

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BEST OF TAOS 2016

best food & drink

*winners listed first and second, respectively

best food & drink continues from Page 6

best place to eat your greens

best traditional mexican

623 Paseo del Pueblo Norte, Taos-popular (575) 758-1148 cidsfoodmarket.com

North: 822 Paseo del Pueblo Norte, Taos (575) 737-0816 South: 1384-#8 Paseo del Pueblo Sur, Taos (575) 751-0063 guadalajaragrilltaos.com

CID’S FOOD MARKET AND SALAD BAR

FARMHOUSE CAFÉ & BAKERY

1405 Paseo del Pueblo Norte, El Prado (575) 758-5683 farmhousecafeandbakery.com

best new mexican ORLANDO’S NEW MEXICAN CAFÉ

1114 Don Juan Valdez Lane, Taos (575) 751-1450 facebook.com/ OrlandosNewMexicanCafe

RANCHOS PLAZA GRILL

6 St. Francis Court, Ranchos de Taos (575) 758-5788 facebook.com/RanchosPlazaGrill

GUADALAJARA GRILL

ORLANDO’S NEW MEXICAN CAFÉ

1114 Don Juan Valdez Lane, Taos (575) 751-1450 facebook.com/ OrlandosNewMexicanCafe

best red

ORLANDO’S NEW MEXICAN CAFÉ

1114 Don Juan Valdez Lane, Taos (575) 751-1450 facebook.com/ OrlandosNewMexicanCafe

RANCHOS PLAZA GRILL

6 St. Francis Court, Ranchos de Taos (575) 758-5788 facebook.com/RanchosPlazaGrill best food & drink continues on Page 14

Tina Larkin

Lambert’s waitstaff was voted tops in Taos. The restaurant is also runner-up for ‘Best Ambiance.’

BEST OF TAOS 2016

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Thank You Voters! First Place: Most Interesting Place to Take Visitors First Place: Best Place to Buy a Taos Souvenir

Voted Best Resale Shop Year After Year...

Thank You Taos!

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Monday-Saturday: 8:00am – 4:30pm Sunday: 8:30am – 4:30pm 120 Veterans Highway, Taos NM 87571 575-758-1028 taospueblo.com

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Wow! Thanks so much for voting me the Best of Taos 2016. It’s my pleasure to represent you.

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Ask us about our new pre-certification program.

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Whatever your budget, we’re excited to work with you.

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BEST OF TAOS 2016

Katharine Egli

Atmosphere, good coffee and plates of food like this are why Taos Diner was voted ‘Best Breakfast.’

best breakfast TAOS DINER 10

BEST OF TAOS 2016

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They expanded the tiny one room, north side eatery (whimsically lit by her dad Bob Allalunis’ willow-work lampshades for many years) into the store next door in 2008, making breakfast and lunch available to that many more locals and visitors. With the expanded space came expanded offerings — humanely bred and processed, locally sourced beef from West Best in Jaroso, Colorado, and Larry Roybal in Cerro, New Mexico; Kyzer pork; organic-fed, free-range local eggs; and new duck eggs from Three Guys in Colorado.

‘THE IN CROWD’ By Virginia L. Clark

nnie Powell is not surprised really — about winning Best Breakfast for 2016 Best of Taos. “Well, yes and no,” she said. “At Taos Diner we work really hard to make good food. But it’s definitely an honor.”

The big sellers are typically the Charles Breakfast Burrito (named after a local 15 years ago), The Copper John (named after John Nettles a copper artist), and hands down, “the homemade hash is by far one of the biggest sellers.” But more than that, it’s the employees. “They’re the rock stars over there,” she said. “They pretty much run the whole thing.” Everybody’s favorite employees include Robert Lujan (waitstaff who started 10 years ago, when he was 13). “I like it because it’s a good vibe,” Lujan said with his signature bright eyes and wide, toothy smile. “You can order anything you want — from good ‘n’ greasy to healthy and organic.”

Besides organic coffees on tap in the diners, you’ll also find cold brew coffee and spicy chai. More recently added to the menu are homemade kim chi; and Dragonfly baked goods from the ovens of everyone’s favorite baker, Karen Todd. But that is not to diminish the popularity of Priscilla “The Cinnamon Lady” Marcus’ gigantic cinnamon rolls (Robert swears Priscilla is his grandma — she added that she’s everyone’s grandma). “It’s what was handed to me when I became prep cook,” Marcus said. “Josh [former owner Wright] told me to make them big — I was impressed when I made them the first time. I did them exactly the way Josh did and they were huge. I wondered if mine were going to come out as nice. I tried to hand it over to someone else and they altered [the recipe], so [Annie] said go back to the original.” It’s been a success for more than two decades and still going strong. So come on down and have the gluten-free red, green or Christmas (they’re all made with corn, instead of flour), or treat yourself to the corn beef hash or the homemade kim chee — and rub elbows with more locals than you ever knew lived in Taos — the “in crowd.” The original Taos Diner is located at 908 Paseo del Pueblo Norte; (575) 758-2374. Taos Diner II is located at 216-B Paseo del Pueblo Sur; (575) 751-1989; taosdiner.com.

“I think that the employees are treated really well and that shows,” said 20-something waitstaff Nausicaa Bird. “It’s the best place in town,” said the Reverend Guitar Guy (so named by himself, a popular — or notorious — local who blesses the world with electric rock guitar jams along Paseo del Pueblo at all times of the day), “Tell ‘em I said so.” Guitar Guy walked away smiling after finishing a big breakfast. “This is the locals’ place to eat,” another customer offered without being asked. “I started coming to the diner to get into the ‘in’ crowd. No seriously,” he enthused in the face of this reporter’s raised eyebrows. “Really. I think they should take it to Santa Fe and Denver. If you could find an investor,” he told Powell, “this is exactly what those people would like, ‘cuz they don’t have anything like it.” Powell laughed a little at the impromptu business offering. “I always have lofty dreams of expanding forever.” She laughed again while looking at the produce order she was taking in to Taos Market, Annie and husband Jay Powell’s new market featuring organic and locally sourced foods, located next door to the north side Taos Diner.

‘This is the locals’ place to eat ...’

There’s two Taos Diners, as most everyone knows. The Powells bought Taos Diner I on the north side from Josh Wright in 2004 (who bought it from Shelly Ratigan in 1999) and they opened Taos Diner II on the south side in 2010. Both places serve breakfast all day, all the time.

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BEST OF TAOS 2016

clean air, cannabis AND KING PINS

WHAT INDUSTRY WOULD YOU LIKE TO SEE IN TAOS? By Joan Livingston

udging from the 851 responses we received, it would seem most people prefer no industry.

Or as one person wrote: “No industries please! We like the clean Taos air!” “No more industry, more night sky and nature,” another offered. We suspect the anti-industry crowd had in mind factories that spewed all kinds of mean, nasty stuff into the environment. Among other eco-minded responders, many voted in favor of green industries with clean

BEST OF TAOS 2016

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jobs. Solar and wind power were big.

“How about anything low impact and high yield?”

One reader offered: “Something clean and reasonably well-paying that doesn’t require a big airport or massive deliveries, like high tech/telecom.”

In keeping with that theme, there were requests for more ecotourism including an astronomy observatory, bird watching and back-country ski tours.

Another wrote: “Tech industries that help people, not just make a zillion bucks for investors.”

One person wanted Taos to be the cutting-edge leader and teaching center when it comes to sustainability.

Easily the most surprising business mentioned was a bowling alley. Yes, you read that correctly. One person added “putt-putt golf” to bowling.

Of course, higher education and the expansion of local learning options were high on the list.

Many responders looked north over the state line and suggested growing marijuana — recreational and otherwise —

“Anything that makes stuff that people actually use.” “How about an industry that will require an education for a good wage?”

TAOSNEWS.COM/BOT

Many readers did weigh in on the type of businesses they would like to see in Taos, including some well-known corporations such as Target, Starbucks, Lowe’s … the list goes on.

would be a boon for Taos. Here are a few more suggestions: a large music recording studio to benefit talented local and visiting artists; a school of art and photography; and cottage industries like hemp production. Someone wanted “a classy internet modern hangout with killer coffee and bites, open and full of light.” “Tourism,” one person wrote. “But the local businesses would need to improve customer service.” Ouch.

Working Smarter for our Clients!

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“Best Real Estate Agent” 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014, 2015 and 2016!

Lisa Davis

Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices Taos Real Estate 575-758-1924 ext 234 lisa@enchantedtaos.com

Friends and Family on the South Side... BEST Gym & WOrkOUT FacIlITy

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THANK YOU

Thank you friends and family, for voting the Living Light Gallery the Best of Taos. Once was an honor, twice was a surprise, the third time, more than a charm, and this fourth time, left us speechless, well sort of! Blessings to all that have supported us over the years!

-Lenny Foster

LENNY FOSTER’S LIVING LIGHT GALLERY 107 kit carson rd 575-737-9150 www.lennyfoster.com | golenny@lennyfoster.com

Thank you again, Taos!

ON THE SOUTH SIDE! 758.1980• | BEST taosspa.com OF TAOS 2016 13

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best food & drink

*winners listed first and second, respectively

best food & drink continues from Page 8

best green

ORLANDO’S NEW MEXICAN CAFÉ

1114 Don Juan Valdez Lane, Taos (575) 751-1450 facebook.com/ OrlandosNewMexicanCafe

RANCHOS PLAZA GRILL

6 St. Francis Court, Ranchos de Taos (575) 758-5788 facebook.com/RanchosPlazaGrill

best fast food

GUADALAJARA GRILL

North: 822 Paseo del Pueblo Norte, Taos (575) 737-0816 South: 1384-#8 Paseo del Pueblo Sur, Taos (575) 751-0063 guadalajaragrilltaos.com

MANTE’S CHOWCART

402 Paseo del Pueblo Sur, Taos (575) 758-3632 facebook.com/TheChowCart(Mantes)

best pizza PIZAÑOS

23 State Road 150, El Prado (575) 776-1050 taospizza.com

TAOS PIZZA OUTBACK Tina Larkin

‘Best Pizza’ accolades go to Pizaños.

712 Paseo del Pueblo Norte, Taos (575) 758-3112 taospizzaoutback.com

best burger 5 STAR BURGERS

1032 Paseo del Pueblo Sur, Taos (575) 758-8484 5starburgers.com

THE BURGER STAND AT TAOS ALE HOUSE

401 Paseo del Pueblo Norte, Taos (575) 758-5522 taosburgersandbeer.com

BEST OF TAOS 2016

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best roadside food stand

MARY JANE’S HOME COOKING

616 Paseo del Pueblo Sur, Taos (575) 770-1171

SUGAR’S BBQ & HAMBURGERS

1799 State Road 68, Embudo (505) 852-0604 facebook.com/SugarsBBQ

best bar

TAOS MESA BREWING

20 ABC Mesa Road, El Prado (575) 758-1900 taosmesabrewing.com

ADOBE BAR AT THE HISTORIC TAOS INN

125 Paseo del Pueblo Norte, Taos (575) 758-2233 taosinn.com

best happy hour 5 STAR BURGERS

1032 Paseo del Pueblo Sur, Taos (575) 758-8484 5starburgers.com

THE ALLEY CANTINA 121 Teresina Lane, Taos (575) 758-2121 alleycantina.com

best beer selection TAOS MESA BREWING

20 ABC Mesa Road, El Prado (575) 758-1900 taosmesabrewing.com

THE BURGER STAND AT TAOS ALE HOUSE

401 Paseo del Pueblo Norte, Taos (575) 758-5522 taosburgersandbeer.com best food & drink continues on Page 16

Proudly serving you the best breakfast burrito in taos! Thank You for voting us

Photo: Megan Avina, Courtesy Taos Lifestyle

Family Owned & Operated over 35 Years in Arroyo Seco, NM 575-776-8516 • Major Credit Cards Accepted • 575-776-8643

The Love Apple’s intention has always been to provide our community with a comforting space to share locally sourced, organic, made from scratch, regional food. Eight years into it now, we’re graciously accepting the ‘best restaurant/ambiance’ Taos’ award, and respectfully thank our community of customers and farmers. We have built our menu around what we can get locally; thank you local farmers for supplying our restaurant! We source our ingredients, as noted, from the following local farms: We have built our menu around what we can get locally; thank you local farmers for supplying our restaurant! We source our ingredients, as noted, from the following local farms: PICTURED: Las Aguas Farm is a Solar Powered, Certified Organic farm in the heart of the Sangre de Cristo Mountains, Mora & Talpa. Strawberries, raspberries, leafy greens. Morning Star Farms is a 2.5 acre biodynamic family farm in Arroyo Seco. Salad & sauté greens, root vegetables, herbs, garlic, leeks, edible flowers. Mer-Girl Gardens is a 5 acres in La Villita/Velarde NM. The organic gardens are home to 500 fruit trees, 300 varieties of heritage apple, pear, peach, nectarine, plum & cherry. Rhubarb, raspberries, & blackberries. Copper Pot Farm farms 3 acres in Llano Quemado. Organic vegetables, greens, onions, squash. Silver Falls Farm, here in Taos, provides us with local grassfed & finished beef. Cabrito Bonito Chèvre is a family goat cheese making farm in Arroyo Seco. Gonzales Family Farm in Espanola: peppers, chile, eggplant & melons.

NOT PICTURED: Talpa Gardens

a one-acre organic farm in Talpa. Greens, herbs, tomatoes, peppers, cucumbers, root vegetables, onions & garlic.

Charybda Farm in Arroyo Hondo, specializes in organic microgreens, heirloom tomatoes, organic herbs, & flowers. Red Mountain Farm in Abiquiu, provides us with eggplant, potatoes, onions, peppers, cucumbers. Cerro Vista Farms a 30 acre organic farm located in Cerro. Potatoes, cabbage, cauliflower, onions. Simply Honey a 6th generation bee keeping family. Honey from bees in Taos, San Luis Valley & throughout New Mexico. Blossoms & Sprouts, aqui in Taos, organic oyster mushrooms. Shepherd’s Lamb is produced on a multi-generation family ranch in Tierra Amarilla. Naturally New Mexico is a co-op of New Mexico lamb ranchers located in El Rito. Salazar Natural Meats in San Luis, Colorado guarantees quality grass fed & finished beef & pork through grass pasturing & low-stress animal handling. Avalanche Cheese Company, hormone & chemical-free goat cheeses & cured meats, Paonia, Colorado. Old Windmill Cheese in Estancia, New Mexico, cave aged & fresh goat cheeses. James Ranch Artisan Cheese makes handcrafted, raw cow’s milk cheeses in the beautiful Animas Valley near Durango, CO. Tucumcari Mountain Cheese in Tucumcari, NM cow’s milk cheeses. Organic Valley milk, cream, butter. Victor Valzdez ‘3 V’ eggs, San Luis, Colorado. Flour: Sangre De Christo Flour Co-op, Costilla. Quinoa: White Mountain Farm, San Luis Valley. Cornmeal: Santa Ana Pueblo, eight miles northwest of Bernalillo.

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BEST OF TAOS 2016

best food & drink

*winners listed first and second, respectively

best cuppa joe

best food & drink continues from Page 14

best brewery

WORLD CUP

102-A Paseo del Pueblo Norte, Taos (575) 737-5299 facebook.com/WorldCupTaos

TAOS MESA BREWING

20 ABC Mesa Road, El Prado (575) 758-1900 taosmesabrewing.com

ELEVATION COFFEE

THE BURGER STAND AT TAOS ALE HOUSE

1110 Paseo del Pueblo Norte, El Prado (575) 758-3068 elevationcoffeeshoppe.com

401 Paseo del Pueblo Norte, Taos (575) 758-5522 taosburgersandbeer.com

TAOS MESA BREWING

best place to satisfy your sweet tooth

KTAOS SOLAR BAR

485 State Road 150, Arroyo Seco (575) 776-5640 taoscow.com

best patio

TAOS COW ICE CREAM COMPANY

20 ABC Mesa Road, El Prado (575) 758-1900 taosmesabrewing.com

9 State Road 150, El Prado (575) 758-5826 ktao.com

ROCKY MOUNTAIN CHOCOLATE FACTORY

112 South Plaza, Taos (575) 758-8855 rockymountainchocolatefactory.com

best margarita ADOBE BAR AT THE HISTORIC TAOS INN

best ambiance

125 Paseo del Pueblo Norte, Taos (575) 758-2233 taosinn.com

THE LOVE APPLE

803 Paseo del Pueblo Norte, Taos (575) 751-0050 theloveapple.net

THE ALLEY CANTINA

LAMBERT’S OF TAOS

121 Teresina Lane, Taos (575) 758-2121 alleycantina.com

123 Bent Street, Taos (575) 758-1009 lambertsoftaos.com

best area winery

best waitstaff

BLACK MESA WINERY

LAMBERT’S OF TAOS

241 Ledoux Street, Taos (575) 758-1969 blackmesawinery.com

123 Bent Street, Taos (575) 758-1009 lambertsoftaos.com

VIVÁC WINERY

THE LOVE APPLE

2075 State Road 68, Dixon (505) 579-4441 vivacwinery.com

Scott Gerdes

Taos Cows' Akai serves up a scoop of homemade Nougat Pecan in a waffle cone.

BEST OF TAOS 2016

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803 Paseo del Pueblo Norte, Taos (575) 751-0050 theloveapple.net

Diane enright

homefire security

Assoc. Broker

BranDon rose

Buyer’s Broker

THANK YOU TAOS FOR VOTING

JANET DEARING

BEST ADMINISTRATIVE ASSISTANT

preventing chimney fires since

1978

We congratulate the best administrative assistant ever, and our single biggest asset in a demanding business. Upbeat, efficient, caring (she also makes the best cupcakes in Taos!) We couldn’t do it without her.

Diane Enright 575-758-5478 575-758-1924

Brandon Rose 575-779-9315 www.taoshomes.com

Thank You Taos for Voting Us Best Chimney Service!

Terry’s

CHIMNEY SERVICE Chimney • stove • fireplaCe

575-758-1825 Store HourS: Mon-Fri 9-5, Sat 10-2 or by appointMent 314 D Paseo Del Pueblo Norte www.terryschimNey.com

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BEST OF TAOS 2016

best beer selection

TAOS MESA BREWING

Tina Larkin

Taos Mesa Brewing’s Kolsch 45

BEST OF TAOS 2016

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“It’s really a bragging rights kind of a thing for us,” said Davis, who came onboard shortly before the brewery opened. “With the new system, we can brew twice the amount of beer we had before in half the amount of time, which is not only more efficient, but also gives us more time to play and try new recipes.”

BEER GEEKS By John Miller

ince opening 4 years ago, Taos Mesa Brewing has largely delivered on its promise of offering a dynamic entertainment experience in a comfortable, neighborly environment that has become a local favorite and a draw for visitors. This year, the establishment earned the Best of Taos awards, “Best Patio,” “Best Live Music,” “Best Place to Dance,” “Best Bar,” “Best Brewery” and “Best Beer Selection.” It can be all-too-easy to think of the popular brewery, eatery and music venue as some incidental, overnight example of success, but like every beer it brews, Taos Mesa Brewing was borne out of a slow, deliberate process and an original recipe. The ingredients included its four founders — among them a restaurateur, a sustainable builder, a master brewer and an entrepreneur, all willing to bet on the idea of bringing good food, craft beer and worldclass music under one roof — a 30-gallon home-brew system made of old dairy equipment and an unassembled Quonset hut sitting on a dusty plot of desert just east of the Río Grande. After a 5-year planning process, the grand opening was held in late summer of 2012. Attendees pulled up to a cold, semi-cylindrical metallic structure, but upon entrance encountered a sustainably constructed venue, warmed by a wall of east-facing windows that highlighted a 12-tap draft range, a generous dance floor and a professionally designed soundstage. Behind the scenes, a kitchen fired up authentic lunch and dinner foods designed to be paired with homemade beers crafted by master brewers Jayson Wylie, Chris Jones and Max Davis. Since that time, Taos Mesa Brewing hasn’t strayed far from its awardwinning recipe, but with the addition of a revamped brewing system earlier this year, a lot of flavor is set to be added in the months and years to come. “We came online in early January with the new system,” said cofounder Dan Irion. “The day that we started brewing on the new system, we were down to one ‘guest beer’ on tap, and by March 1, we had pulled back 10 of the 12 taps. As of April 1, 100 percent of our taps are pouring all our own beers.”

“We pay really special attention to the quality of the product,” Davis added. “The best description of a brewer I’ve ever heard is, ‘a janitor who dumps flowers into boiling sugar water and gets paid in beer.’ That speaks to constant sanitization back-of-house, being really aware of what’s clean, what’s sanitary and that leads to a really good product at the tap. We’re always experimenting. We ask questions like, ‘what if we added a little more of this ingredient to get a better mouthfeel? Or, what if we added these hops instead of these hops to get a more citrusy flavor, instead of a piney flavor?’ We geek out about the beer and I think that’s what sets the standard for us. It’s what sets us apart from other breweries.” Twenty-one styles are currently on-offer, including 12 house beers and a rotation of eight seasonal brews. So far, commercial bottling has been limited to a run of Kachina Peak Pale Ale six-packs and growlers that can be filled on-site, but Irion and Davis both alluded to future plans for a dedicated production facility and a greater focus on harvesting local ingredients. Davis explained that every beer “starts with writing a recipe.” And whether it’s the beer, the food or the music, it’s clear that Taos Mesa Brewing offers a taste of something everyone can enjoy. Taos Mesa Brewing is located at 20 ABC Mesa Road, in El Prado. (575) 758-1900; taosmesabrewing.com.

... ‘taptakeover,’ a major milestone for any brewery.

Among industry professionals, this is known as “tap-takeover,” a major milestone for any brewery.

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BEST OF TAOS 2016

conspiracy THEORIES

WHAT TAOS CONSPIRACY IS THE MOST LIKELY TO BE TRUE? By Joan Livingston

e Taoseños love a good controversy. We also like conspiracies, which often go hand-in-hand. So, what was the number-one conspiracy most likely to be true? Yes, the venerable Taos Hum or as one person wrote: Taos Hummmmmmmmmmm. For those who haven’t heard of it, the hum is a persistent low-frequency humming sound of unknown origin. However, one reader did claim the hum’s

BEST BEST OF OF TAOS TAOS 2016 2016

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source was cars breaking from Taos potholes. Other top vote-getters were cattle mutilations — allegedly caused by aliens from outer space — and chemtrails — allegedly caused by the U.S. government. A reader offered: “The jet contrails ARE the path that aliens use to come to Taos. Hee hee.” “There is an aquifer larger than Lake Superior under Taos Mountain,” one person suggested.

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Another common conspiracy was: “The mountain takes you in or spits you out.” “If you ain’t from here, you ain’t really welcome for more than a weekend.” “You must be born here to get anything done on time.” And then there was this pearl of wisdom: “Move to Taos lose a spouse.” Of course, a popular topic was political conspiracies such as the recent failure by the town to rezone a large area

south of downtown.

to work for the people of Taos.

Among the answers were: “The conflict of interest in the Smith’s rezoning debacle.” “Hidden agreement between town government and Smith’s for the zoning change.”

And another one about Rumsfeld: “He lives here because he knows things.”

“Local officials don’t always do what is best for Taos. They do what is best for their own interests.” One person suggested that Donald Rumsfeld, the former U.S. secretary of defense who is a part-time resident, is secretly a Democrat who wants

Here are other conspiracies that may or may not come true: Taos will be the next Aspen; gasoline pricing is rigged; all the bad drivers are really out to get you; and pot is just about legal in Taos. And finally, “we really don’t want to fix the roads.” And as if we weren’t sure, “We really DON’T want the roads fixed.”

Thank you Taos

THE ART AND SCIENCE OF PURE PLANT AND FLOWER ESSENCES

Taos County & Moreno Valley for Voting Us

Best Place to Buy Floor Coverings for Seven Years in a Row

Celebrating 28 Years Serving Taos

Dan’sCarpets

HARDWOOD • TILE • WINDOW COVERINGS Ranchos de Taos • 7237 Highway 518

575-758-2420 • danscarpetandfloors.com • danscarpet@yahoo.com

Serving Domestic & Import Beers • Wine • Margaritas

Taos’ BEST Mexican Restaurant

NoRTh SIDE 822 Paseo Del Pueblo Norte Taos 737-0816 SouTh SIDE 1384 Paseo Del Pueblo Sur 751-0063

Thank You, Taos!

575-751-7246 237 Ledoux St. Taos, NM salonmarjorie.com

(across from Ace Hardware) Hair & Makeup by Salon Marjorie Photo by Marjorie

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BEST OF TAOS 2016

best shopping

*winners listed first and second, respectively

best gallery

LENNY FOSTER LIVING LIGHT GALLERY 107 Kit Carson Road, Taos (575) 737-9150 lennyfoster.com

MICHAEL MCCORMICK & SONS GALLERY

106 Paseo del Pueblo Norte, Taos (575) 758-1372 mccormickgallery.com

best hip gift shop FX|18

103-C Bent Street, Taos (575) 758-8590 fx18.com

WABI SABI

216-A Paseo del Pueblo Norte, Taos (575) 758-7801 wabisabigifts.net

best place to buy a taos souvenir TAOS PUEBLO

120 Veterans Highway, Taos (575) 758-1028 taospueblo.com

MILLICENT ROGERS MUSEUM GIFT SHOP

1504 Millicent Rogers Road, El Prado (575) 758-2462 millicentrogers.org

best place to buy that perfect card GARDEN & SOUL

137 North Plaza, Taos (575) 751-1825 gardenandsoul.com

UNICORN SCHOOL SUPPLIES 311 Paseo del Pueblo Sur, Taos (575) 758-4106

Tina Larkin

Find locally made gifts at FX|18.

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Thank you for all of your support. We look forward to serving you over the coming years.

Blue Sky Pet & Feed

214 Paseo Del Pueblo sur, Taos • (575) 758-1841

P h o T o b y b o N N i e Z y L k a , F L e u r D e L i s a rT s

We ALWAyS KNeW yOu HAd GReAT TASTe, TAOS

CLOTHING

SKIN

| HAIR | NAILS 102 Doña Luz Taos, New Mexico 87571 substanceoftaos.com 575.751.0992

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BEST OF TAOS 2016

best shopping

*winners listed first and second, respectively

Tina Larkin

Summer signals another season of the Taos Farmers Market.

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best place for bookworms

SMITH’S FOOD & DRUG CENTER

TAOS LIBRARY

402 Camino de la Placita, Taos (575) 758-3063 taoslibrary.org

THE BRODSKY BOOKSHOP

226 Paseo del Pueblo Norte, Taos (575) 758-9468 facebook.com/ BrodskyBookshop

best grocery store

CID’S FOOD MARKET

623 Paseo del Pueblo Norte, Taos (575) 758-1148 cidsfoodmarket.com

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224 Paseo del Pueblo Sur, Taos (575) 758-3711 smithsfoodanddrug.com

best place to buy fruits & veggies TAOS FARMERS MARKET

Taos Plaza (Saturdays, 8 a.m. to 12:30 p.m., second week of May through end of October) (575) 751-7575 (voicemail) taosfarmersmarket.org

CID’S FOOD MARKET

623 Paseo del Pueblo Norte, Taos (575) 758-1148 cidsfoodmarket.com

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best farmer’s market TAOS FARMERS MARKET

Taos Plaza (Saturdays, 8 a.m. to 12:30 p.m., second week of May through end of October) (575) 751-7575 (voicemail) taosfarmersmarket.org

RED WILLOW FARMERS MARKET

885 Star Road, Taos Pueblo (575) 770-8688 redwillowcooperative.com facebook.com/RedWillowFarm

best place to buy flowers

ENCHANTED FLORIST

622-A Paseo del Pueblo Sur, Taos (575) 758-3030 taosflorist.com

TAOS FARMERS MARKET

WEAVING SOUTHWEST & RÍO GRANDE WEAVERS SUPPLY

591 Hondo Seco Road, Arroyo Seco (575) 758-0433 weavingsouthwest.com

best resale shop PIECES

Taos Plaza (Saturdays, 8 a.m. to 12:30 p.m., second week of May through end of October) (575) 751-7575 (voicemail) taosfarmersmarket.org

1024 Paseo del Pueblo Sur, Taos (575) 737-0500 216 and 218 Paseo del Cañon, Taos (575) 737-5112 piecestaos.com

best place to buy yarn

CAV THRIFT STORE

TAOS FIBER ARTS

108-A Doña Luz Street, Taos (575) 758-8242 taosfiberarts.com

1103 Paseo del Pueblo Sur, Taos (575) 751-4824 taoscav.org best shopping continues on Page 28

Thank You to our customers for your support, and for finding us since our move!

Thank you Taos

for your loyalty in voting us Best Women’s Clothing Boutique once again!

What a great time ...to be a girl!

“People’s Choice Award”

Best Women’s Clothing Boutique 14 Years

Out Door Market Opening June 8th, 2016 12:00-7:00pm Accepting W.I.C Coming Soon Accepting E.B.T Fresh Produce, Baked Goods, Blue Corn Products and more! Location: 885 Star Road Next to Tony Reyna’s Gift Shop Email: redwillowfarm15@gmail.com

Clothing Boutique Visit us in the magical town of Arroyo Seco on the Ski Valley Road! Open 7 days

www.styleintaos.com TAOSNEWS.COM/BOT

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BEST OF TAOS 2016

best local rock shop TAOS GEMS AND MINERALS

Katharine Egli

Affordable jewelry is just the tip of Taos Gems and Minerals’ iceberg.

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And there’s only one way to get such a comprehensive and drop-dead-gorgeous collection of specimens — picking each and every one out by hand. “It’s almost like shopping for vegetables,” she said. “You just have to see what is available and what looks good.”

ROCKS FOR THE MASSES By Cody Hooks

Parker travels to the international gems shows a couple times a year where she looks over thousands of pieces in hundreds of boxes from dozens of countries. “Until modern times, gems were reserved to the very, very elites in society,” she said. But in today’s interconnected, globalized world, everyday people can collect rocks of ancient beauty. That, combined with extractive industries, means the supply of collectable rocks waxes and wanes with global demand and production. One of Parker’s favorite vendors — a young man from the Democratic Republic of the Congo with a mature eye for form and beauty in the blue calcium carbonates from his local mine — was absent from the major shows for a few years as civil wars kept international travel at bay. He’s back now, and Parker says his specimens are as wonderful as ever. Parker buys most of her gems and minerals from small families with their own, ecologically sound mining operations. For the seasoned collector, there’s plenty to captivate the eye and mind, like pieces of coral collected by Parker’s mother on Johnston Island before the U.S. government dropped atomic bomb after atomic bomb in Cold War tests. The store is an apothecary for many of Taos’ healers and metaphysical practitioners, who can search for hours through drawers and drawers of raw, cut and polished rocks, each with a specific structure and purpose. Much like every plant is unique — how its specific DNA holds the key for some of the world’s most important medicines — each rock, or “the whole body of the mineral kingdom,” as Parker called it, has its place and power, too. But for someone who just likes rocks — like so many of us — there’s even more.

hen Pamela Parker’s mom opened Taos Gems and Minerals 50 years ago, the shop — near Cervantes and Paseo del Pueblo Sur — wasn’t near the center of town, but on the road to Ranchos.

Plenty has changed around the store, from the physical landscape to the community around it. But it is the love of rocks, passed on from mother to daughter, that’s still at the heart of Taos Gems and Minerals. “Being here in Taos for 50 years, you tend to get fans,” Parker said. And it’s those fans who voted Taos Gems and Minerals as the “Best Local Rock Shop” in Taos for 2016. While other rock and gem stores in Taos specialize in local specimens and jewelry by local and Native American artists, stepping into Taos Gems and Minerals is like stepping into the world’s museum. Blue, copper-heavy pieces dot the north wall, and in the middle are huge pieces of purple amethyst and rosy pink quartz. Arranged by color around the showing room, the rocks, gems and minerals of Parker’s shop seem to come from the world over — from Brazil, Uruguay, India, Madagascar; and every continent and major mountain range or group of islands.

Parker carries $3 bracelets and other affordable jewelry, gems and minerals. It doesn’t take a lot to get into rocks, she said. “Get what appeals to you. Just look for beauty,” she added. Taos Gems and Minerals is located at 637 Paseo del Pueblo Sur, Taos. (575) 758-3910; rocksandminerals4u.com.

The store is an apothecary ... TAOSNEWS.COM/BOT

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BEST OF TAOS 2016

best shopping

*winners listed first and second, respectively

best shopping continues from Page 24

best women’s clothing boutique

best place to best garden gear up for the center & trail nursery

SUBSTANCE

TAOS MOUNTAIN OUTFITTERS

102 Doña Luz Street, Taos (575) 751-0992 livealifeofsubstance.com

FRANCESCA’S CLOTHING BOUTIQUE

492 State Road 150, Arroyo Seco (575) 776-8776 styleintaos.com

best shoe store TAOS MOUNTAIN OUTFITTERS

113 North Plaza, Taos (575) 758-9292 taosmountainoutfitters.com

MUDD-N-FLOOD

103-A Bent Street, Taos (575) 751-9100 muddnflood.com

best place to buy a pair of shades

SUNSHADES & OPTICS OF TAOS

113 North Plaza, Taos (575) 758-9292 taosmountainoutfitters.com

108 West Plaza, Taos (575) 751-1565 sunshadesoftaos.com

STEPPIN’ OUT

120 Bent Street, Taos (575) 758-4487 steppinout-taos.com

TAOS MOUNTAIN OUTFITTERS

113 North Plaza, Taos (575) 758-9292 taosmountainoutfitters.com

best place to gear up for the slopes best hardware COTTAM’S SKI & & home OUTDOOR SHOP improvement 207-A Paseo del Pueblo Sur, store Taos (800) 322-8267 101 Sutton Place, Taos Ski Valley (575) 776-8719 40 North Angel Fire Road, Angel Fire (575) 377-3700 cottamskishops.com

RÍO GRANDE ACE HARDWARE

North: 223 Paseo del Pueblo Sur, Taos (575) 751-2061 South: 1381 Paseo del Pueblo Sur, Taos (575) 758-4268 riograndeace.com

TAOS MOUNTAIN OUTFITTERS

RANDALL LUMBER & HARDWARE

113 North Plaza, Taos (575) 758-9292 taosmountainoutfitters.com

BEST BEST OF OF TAOS TAOS 2016

315 Paseo del Pueblo Sur, Taos (575) 758-2271 randalltaos.com

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PETREE NURSERY & GREENHOUSES

25 Petree Lane, Taos (off Blueberry Hill Road) (575) 758-3021 facebook.com/ PetreeNurseryAndGreenhouses

RÍO GRANDE ACE HARDWARE

North: 223 Paseo del Pueblo Sur, Taos (575) 751-2061 South: 1381 Paseo del Pueblo Sur, Taos (575) 758-4268 riograndeace.com

best place to buy floor coverings DAN’S CARPET

7237 State Road 518, Ranchos de Taos (575) 758-2420 danscarpetsandfloors.com

VARGAS TILE COMPANY

4114 State Road 68, Ranchos de Taos (575) 758-5986 vargastile.com

best home furnishings TAOS LIFESTYLE

701 Paseo del Pueblo Sur, Taos (575) 758-5885 taoslifestyle.com

GRAYSTONE FURNITURE & THE SOFA GALLERY

815 Paseo del Pueblo Sur, Taos (575) 751-1266 graystonefurniture.com

best place to best place to fill buy a mattress up your tank TAOS LIFESTYLE FEATURING SLEEP SANCTUARY

701 Paseo del Pueblo Sur, Taos (575) 758-5885 taoslifestyle.com

WOODY’S FURNITURE 1551 Paseo del Pueblo Sur, Taos (575) 751-3211

best liquor store

SMITH’S FOOD & DRUG CENTER

224 Paseo del Pueblo Sur, Taos (575) 758-3711 smithsfoodanddrug.com

DEL NORTE LIQUORS

1574 Paseo del Pueblo Sur, Taos (575) 758-8904 facebook.com/DelNorteLiquors

best jeweler LARRY MARTINEZ JEWELER

822 Paseo del Pueblo Sur, Taos (575) 758-4169 larrymartinezjeweler.com

CHAVEZ FINE JEWELERS

622 Paseo del Pueblo Sur, Taos (575) 758-9319 chavezfinejewelers.com

best local rock shop TAOS GEMS & MINERALS

637 Paseo del Pueblo Sur, Taos (575) 758-3910 rocksandminerals4u.com

TAOS ROCKERS

229-A Camino del la Placita, Taos (575) 758-2326 taosrockers.com

SMITH’S FOOD & DRUG CENTER

224 Paseo del Pueblo Sur, Taos (575) 758-3711 smithsfoodanddrug.com

SHELL

1137 Paseo del Pueblo Sur, Taos (575) 758-0760 5280 State Road 68, Ranchos de Taos (575) 751-7116 shell.com

best place to ship a package UPS STORE

1335 Paseo del Pueblo, Unit 1, Taos (575) 758-8647 taos-nm-2317.theupsstorelocal. com

9 TO 5 SHIP & PRINT

925 Paseo del Pueblo Sur, Taos (575) 751-1313 9to5taos.com

best place to buy pet supplies

BLUE SKY PET & FEED SUPPLY

214 Paseo del Pueblo Sur, Taos (575) 758-1841

TAOS TACK & PET SUPPLY

710 Paseo del Pueblo Sur, Suite 20, Taos (575) 737-9798 facebook.com/ TaosTackAndPetSupply

VOTED

BEST PLACE TO SAY “I DO” & BEST LODGING FOR VISITORS

THE HERITAGE OF THE AMERICAN SOUTHWEST

Thank you for voting the MRM as the Best Museum in Taos! Sharing and Celebrating the Arts and Cultures of the Southwest since 1956

THANK YOU TAOS NEWS READERS!

THANK YOU TAOS AND SURROUNDING AREAS FOR YOUR VOTE AND SUPPORT!

Stop In To Check Out O ur Weekly Spec ials

1504 Millicent Rogers Road | www.millicentrogers.org | 575.758.2462

Thank you, Taos, for voting us…

BesT Place To Gear UP for The sloPes

We Couldn’t Do It Without You! We also have all your summer needs covered, from clothing and accessories to rafting adventures on the Rio Grande!

Your Local Ashley Furniture Dealer

Monday-Friday: 10:00a.m.- 6:00p.m. Saturday: 10:00a.m.- 4:00p.m. Sunday: Closed Accepting Visa, Mastercard, Discover 575.751.3211 • 1553 A Paseo del Pueblo Sur Ask about our Lay-A-Way Plan! Financing Available

Ski ShopS 575-758-2822 207-A Paseo del Pueblo Sur, Taos

www.cottamsskishops.com • info@cottamsskishops.com TAOSNEWS.COM/BOT

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BEST OF TAOS 2016

best pet groomer

10,000 WAGS

The kennel isn’t just for dogs; it takes cats, too. “We love cats and quite often are at capacity in the cattery. They are a large part of our business. We will also groom most cats. We have three cats that live here as well. Mable, Georgie and Millie rule the roost,” Still said. The cats even get rotated so each one can sit in a tree while they are boarding.

HAPPY TAILS By Laurie Celine

aos loves 10,000 Wags Pet Resort. It won the Best of Taos award for “Best Pet Groomer,” but there was no category for best kennel, so we assume voters love the whole kit and caboodle. In 2011, Liz Shaw and Nick Still purchased 10,000 Wags and when they did, they found a place that would provide happiness for themselves and the dogs and cats that stay there. The business is a full-service kennel with boarding, daycare, seasonal training and agility (activities that include an obstacle course), a retail boutique and grooming, which readers love so much. “Corporate America was not for me. I then had to look at what it was that I loved and discovered that what I loved was sitting next to me and at my feet — my dogs and cats,” Shaw said of her decision to buy a kennel. That’s when Shaw and Still made up their minds to leave jobs in Phoenix, Arizona, and began the 12-year search for the perfect kennel. They had nearly given up, when their broker told them that 10,000 Wags in Taos was on the market. “Taos had always been a place we wanted to visit, so we decided to have one last look at one last kennel. Well, it took coming out of the canyon and looking down onto Taos for the first time. I think we were sold before we even saw the business,” Still said. What makes this grooming business so unique is that the “focus has shifted to satisfying mostly our boarding customers. While we do all aspects of grooming and have more customers than ever, it is the special attention that we give to those dogs getting ready to depart that makes us all the happiest. We have developed a relationship with them over their stay, and cleaning and brushing them just strengthens that bond,” Shaw said. She grooms the animals herself. Shaw says the biggest grooming challenge is comforting the new dogs who are fearful. “We must take the time to make them feel secure and comfortable so that they are not fearful the next time. Every appointment adjusts to each pet depending on the size, condition and what’s getting done,” she said.

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Customers tell Shaw and Still how much they love the improvements the couple have made. The owners are most proud that their customers are comfortable leaving their pets with them, and that their pets are happy. Each dog is different, so some play most of the day. Others are small and prefer human company, so they stay in the small dog room where someone is with them all day, Still said. Most recently, the couple started the Wags Little Yellow School Bus pick-up-service for doggy day care that caters to the entire Enchanted Circle. “When the dogs arrive they have a new large yard that we have worked on for a year to run and play in. Their day consists of organized group play (group sits, follow the leader, etc.), free group play and, of course, a midday nap. They go home happy and exhausted. We also have pets that may not enjoy the group experience. They come to have human companionship while their owners are busy during the day. We can work with them in the agility yard, take them for walks or just give them love.” The couple gets attached to their boarders, and say the most difficult part of the business is when a customer calls to let them know that a pet who has visited for years has “crossed the rainbow bridge,” Still said. 10,000 Wags is located at 24822 U.S. 64 west, El Prado. (575) 751-9247; 10,000wags.com.

They go home happy and exhausted.

Katharine Egli

Kevin MacPhail grooms Sophie, a 6-month-old shepherd mix, at 10,000 wags on May 24.

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BEST OF TAOS 2016

best place to buy that special card

GARDEN & SOUL

Scott Gerdes

Garden & Soul co-owners Bob and Stephanie Deaver enjoy a specialty chocolate in front of their new tile display on May 25.

Courtesy photo

Garden & Soul shows why it was voted as the ‘Best Place to Buy That Perfect Card.’

CREATIVE, PERSONAL AND CHOCOLATY

By Cindy Brown

f course Garden & Soul is the best place to buy that special card. The shop carries more than 30 local artists in a variety of styles, including artists from Taos Pueblo. Paintings and photographs of New Mexico scenes convey some of the magic that residents and visitors experience here. In addition to Taos scenes, there are images from across the state, including prints of Chaco Canyon and its largest ruin, Pueblo Bonito. In addition, Garden & Soul has created its own line of eco-friendly cards. Co-owner Stephanie Deaver says that among customer favorites are

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the funny cards that can’t be found anywhere else. She says “These cards are creative and personal; they fit particular situations.” In addition to cards, there are other delights. One of the first things you see when you enter Garden & Soul is the case full of local chocolate. Bars, truffles and an assortment of confections made by New Mexico candy-makers — the Chocolate Cartel, the Chocolate Smith and Jennifer Loves Chocolate are hard to overlook. A Taos favorite is the salted caramels, which are extremely addictive. Also featured in the store are soaps, lotions and creams made

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high up in the Sangre de Cristos by Rosita Mary. They have scents like Lavender Love, Lemongrass, Rosemary Mint and the especially intoxicating Jasmine. Rosita Mary is a bee keeper and herbalist and uses her homegrown ingredients to make many of her products. There is a selection of jewelry, pottery, pillows, journals and sparkling sun catchers. A recent addition to the shop is a line of custom ceramic tiles that feature the work of local artists and can be used as art displays, trivets and coasters. Co-owner Bob Deaver is a photographer and his work can be seen on some of the tiles. Artists can collaborate with the

Deavers to create their own tiles from photographs, paintings and illustrations. The images are fired at a high temperature and will not fade over time. In addition to individual tiles, murals can be created with multiple tiles. Stephanie Deaver spent time in New Mexico in the field during her time as an archeologist and always wanted to live here. When Garden & Soul became available almost 4 years ago, she and Bob jumped at the chance to make a change. She describes herself and Bob as “refugees from academia” and says they are enjoying the chance to control their own destinies.

Customers report that they like the welcoming and friendly feeling of the shop with its bright colors and say it is a cheerful place to visit. Kim Van Deman of Taos Mountain Outfitters, which is located just a few doors down on Taos Plaza, is a frequent customer. She says, “Garden & Soul has the best selection of cards in town. They are either made in house or by local artists. Bob and Stephanie are wonderful. They have made the store a destination. And the chocolate is amazing; really, really good.” Garden & Soul is located in Taos Plaza at 137 North Plaza. (575) 7511825; gardenandsoul.com.

THANK YOU TAOS & NORTHERN NEW MEXICO

For voting Wayne Rutherford General Contractor, Inc. “Best of Taos” six times. Every member of our project team contributes: employees, subcontractors, material suppliers and design professionals. Their dedication and outstanding efforts make our award winning projects possible. And, most importantly, we thank our customers and project owners over the last four decades. 219 Cruz Alta, Taos, NM 575-751-7028

ALL OF US AT CID’S FOOD MARKET WOULD LIKE TO THANK YOU, OUR LOYAL CUSTOMERS, FOR ONCE AGAIN RECOGNIZING US AS THE BEST OF TAOS IN THE 2016 PEOPLES CHOICE AWARDS.

FIRST PLACE

www.taosdesignbuild.com Build on our Experience. We do.

thaNk you, taos You voted Jethro’s Genuine Texas Barbeque one of the Best New RestauRaNts of 2016! Enjoy slow-smoked barbeque every Thursday through Sunday—Look for our red food truck at 630 Paseo del Pueblo sur, near the Nusenda ATM.

BEST GROCERY STORE BEST GREEN BUSINESS BEST PLACE TO EAT YOUR GREENS

SECOND PLACE BEST CUSTOMER SERVICE BEST PLACE TO BUY YOUR FRUITS & VEGGIES

jethrosbbqtaos.com

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1314 Paseo del Pueblo Sur 758-1658 TAOSNEWS.COM/BOT

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BEST OF TAOS 2016

zorro, ufos,

GOATS IN A CHEVY

WHAT IS THE WEIRDEST THING YOU EVER SAW IN TAOS? By Joan Livingston

an El Camino.

aos doesn’t appear to be lacking when it comes to weird sightings.

Then there was the man walking his donkey with a dog perched on the animal’s back.

Among them are people and animals doing things out of the ordinary, plus extraterrestrial events. So what took top honors? Numerous people were quite taken aback by a man walking with “a cat on top of a dog with a mouse on top of the cat.” One reader even threw a bird into the mix. People have spotted emus running down the street in Arroyo Seco. Others noted goats eating hay in the back of

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Certainly, many readers claim to have spotted UFOs and strange lights over the Sangre de Cristo Mountains. As for people sightings, artist Ed Sandoval got numerous mentions. After all, Sandoval dresses in full Zorro regalia while he rides horseback downtown. Even Gov. Susana Martinez got a kick out of Zorro during a visit last year. Other people mentioned were the tattooed man in a skirt and

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another guy wearing a rainbow bikini. Here are two more: A guy in a shirt and tie going to a neighborhood church while driving a John Deere tractor; and a girl in a bikini with hiking boots walking a white standard poodle. One person noted people shopping in their pajamas at Smith’s and Walmart. Buddhist monks were spotted walking from the ski valley wearing orange robes in a blizzard. A man in a full beekeeping outfit was seen shopping in a liquor store. Then there is this one: “A

woman who claimed she’s been abducted by a UFO and they’ve implanted a device in her hip. She showed us the ‘scar.’ “ “Where do I begin?” one reader wrote. “Maybe the guy who plays an electric guitar and with his amp blasting. He sounds terrible.” Of course, there are the wise guys who took a jab at Taos’ laid-back tendencies. So a reader offered “great service” and another, “someone dressed up in a suit.” Others weighed in with “a dog on a leash” and “a clean car.” How about a shopper taking a grocery cart back to the return

area? For many, it was too hard choosing just one weird sight. They claimed they’ve gotten used to pretty much everything. “Are you kidding … it’s all weird in Taos and that’s why we live here.” One person said nothing is weird. Another wrote: “Taos is all weird. I love it.” And then there’s the jaded responder who claimed: “Nothing. I live in New York City. It’s going to take a lot to find something weird.” We suggest sticking around a bit longer.

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For Voting Me Best Jazz Performer Also, Thank you Alley Cantina for a good happy hour and for supporting jazz. A very special thank you to Larry Audette and Dan LIzdas for the magic.

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best things to do

*winners listed first and second, respectively

best annual event in taos county ARROYO SECO 4TH OF JULY PARADE

Downtown Arroyo Seco visitseco.com

TAOS PLAZA LIVE

Taos Plaza Every Thursday, 6-8 p.m., through beginning of September taoschamber.com

best weekend getaway

OJO CALIENTE MINERAL SPRING RESORT & SPA

50 Los Banos Drive, Ojo Caliente (800) 222-9162 ojospa.com

TAOS SKI VALLEY

State Road 150, Taos Ski Valley (866) 986-7386 skitaos.org

most interesting place to take visitors

RÍO GRANDE GORGE BRIDGE

On U.S. Highway 64 toward Tres Piedras

best local museum

MILLICENT ROGERS MUSEUM 1504 Millicent Rogers Road, Taos (575) 758-2426 millicentrogers.org

HARWOOD MUSEUM OF ART

238 Ledoux Street, Taos (575) 758-9826 harwoodmuseum.org

best hiking/ jogging trail WILLIAMS LAKE TRAIL

Wheeler Peak Wilderness Area, Carson National Forest taostrails.com/williams_ lake.html

WHEELER PEAK TRAIL

Wheeler Peak Wilderness Area, Carson National Forest taostrails.com/wheeler_ peak.html

TAOS PUEBLO

120 Veterans Highway, Taos (575) 758-1028 taospueblo.com Tina Larkin

Deemed sacred by Indigenous Native Americans, Ojo Caliente Mineral Springs has been a popular gathering and healing place for centuries.

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best things to do continues on Page 47

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BEST OF TAOS 2016

best jazz performer

CHRISTINE AUTUMN

Katharine Egli

Christine Autumn performs at The Alley Cantina on May 22.

BEST OF TAOS 2016

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After a tragic car accident in 1996 that left her friend dead and Autumn with broken legs and crushed knees and various other injuries, Autumn started moving her life in new directions. When she came to Taos, she had dreams of being a visual artist, and she still enjoys those pursuits as a potter, painter and fiber artist. But teaching has become one of her primary means of healing herself and others.

ALL ABOUT HEALING By Andy Jones

hose who don’t know Christine Autumn are at least familiar with her work as a jazz singer and performer. Autumn was voted Best of Taos 2016 for “Best Jazz Performer.”

It’s an honor that she’s won three years in a row (and six of the last seven, but like anyone, there is much more to Autumn than her public persona. A native of Brooklyn, New York, Autumn found her way to Taos in the early 1990s. “I wanted to see America,” she says about the trip with friends that led her to Taos for the first time. “We stopped here and I loved the sky and I loved the Spanish influence. I moved here and never looked back.” Autumn wasn’t looking for a change, but she found one anyway. “I loved New York. I was successful there,” she says. She does say, however, that she appreciates the lack of judgement in Taos, whether it’s judgment for your socio-economic status, race or gender. “I haven’t experienced as many ‘isms’ as I did in New York,” she says. As a jazz singer, Autumn leans toward the classics: songs from the golden age of jazz, the 1930s through 1950s. “I just kind of love those songs,” she says. “I know there’s modern jazz and people scatting and this and that, but I love those songs and the places they went to.” That isn’t to say she shies away from new compositions. She has recently been recording demos for songwriter LE Bender, who is sending songs out in hopes of landing some tunes with recording artists. “He really writes from the ’40s and ’50s,” Autumn says. “The songs are scrumptious.” Autumn can be seen every Sunday night at The Alley Cantina’s “Jazz Night,” performing with keyboardist Dan Lizda and bass player Larry Audette. She’s also an author, visual artist and an art teacher at Taos Middle School.

In 2006, Autumn published her autobiographical memoir, “All That I Am,” which was primarily a means of moving past the pain and tragedy of that accident 10 years earlier. “I wanted to write everything I remembered down,” she says. “I need to heal the body and soul, and I wound up taking my life in a completely different direction [after the accident]. When I moved here, I thought I was going to be some kind of healer [she learned how to channel and do massage]. I didn’t know what was happening, but I needed to go in a different direction, and I realized that sometimes healing is being in a classroom with 130 crazy kids all at one time.” Through all of her renaissance-like endeavors, Autumn has learned that persistence and patience will take you where you need to be, even if that’s not where you thought you were going. “Life always works out and you don’t know why some doors open and others don’t,” she says. “As long as I’m not looking back in regret, but looking back and realizing, ‘oh, that’s why I did this instead of that.’” One thing is for sure, Autumn doesn’t plan to stop singing anytime soon. “Words are powerful and music is powerful,” she says. “That’s why people fall in love with songs. It reminds us of our lover, our mother, our father. It takes us to that next level of spirit.”

‘Words are powerful and music is powerful ...’

A theme that seems to run through all of her work, whether it be a painting or a soulful cover of an old Betty Carter song, is one of catharsis and healing.

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BEST OF TAOS 2016

72 great reasons why you should go out tonight

Dining Out Summer/Fall 2016

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BEST OF TAOS 2016

Katharine Egli

Paddy Mac, the signature voice of KTAOS 101.9 Solar Radio, in the studio May 25. Mac was voted ‘Best Local Radio Personality.’

best local radio personality PADDY MAC 44

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this person please get to such and such’s house and help her out?’ ... And people did! ... Easily my most rewarding experience.” That market tailoring, about 30 years of broadcasting experience and consistency may be some reasons McCarty regularly wins “Best Local Radio Personality.”

A PEEK AT THE MAN BEHIND THE MIC By Jordan Miera

atrick McCarty, much better known as “Paddy Mac” in Taos and Northern New Mexico, has regularly won “Best Local Radio Personality” since he arrived on the local radio scene in 2000. The streak continues in 2016 for the host of a morning show on 101.9 KTAO-FM.

THE NICKNAME

“I started going by Paddy Mac back in the TV days [as a sports newscaster],” McCarty said. “It’s kind of a catchy and kind of a sporty name. A boyfriend of my sister at the time kind of called me Paddy. He thought it was a joke ... ” McCarty decided to run with it as his broadcast name. McCarty is also programming director of KTAO and its sister station, “Luna” 96.7 KLNN-FM. That means he plays an integral role in deciding which music is played on the stations. For KTAO, which follows an “adult album alternative” format, many different types of music may be played, “from honky-tonk to Foo Fighters and everything in between.” This openness poses a challenge for the station’s music programmers. “You can’t play everything,” McCarty said. “I mean, you can, but you’re going to lose people. The idea is to represent what I think Taos means. We have a credo around here that says, ‘What is our filter? What do we feel like KTAOS is?’ It’s an open question. ... Our listeners will let us know.” It’s this market customization, including delivery of local news, that is the strength of local radio in the MP3 player, smartphone and internet radio era. “The individualization of radio stations is pretty rare these days,” McCarty said. “I took a [cross-country drive] a few years ago. I was like, ‘This station sounds just like that station.’ ... When I’m driving, I seek out these tiny little individual stations, and I want to hear the voice of that town. ... I’m going to be as local and as personal and as informational in this town as I can be.” McCarty said his most rewarding experience on the job in Taos was when, according to a Taos News article, 28,000 people lost access to gas in February 2011.

“People know they can count on me,” McCarty said. “I don’t take a lot of vacation days. I don’t get sick. If I do, I still come in — unless I’m really sick — and people know.”

‘THE TYPICAL TAOS STORY’

After experimenting with various majors in college, McCarty settled on broadcast journalism. Along with a host of other broadcasting-related positions, he eventually became a television sportscaster “with the plastic hair and completely shaved face, jacket and tie and all that great stuff” in Las Cruces, New Mexico, and El Paso, Texas. Three shows he worked on — two on TV and one on the radio — were canceled after the cable group and station he worked at were sold. McCarty’s mother lived in Taos and invited him to stay in her guesthouse while he searched for work. “I fell in love with the place. It’s the typical Taos story,” McCarty said. “I said, ‘Gee, what can I do here to stay here?’ At the time, I think there were two radio stations. That’s it.” He started working at a country radio station without pay “to keep [his] skills sharp and get [his] foot in the door.” Eventually, the radio station started paying him. Then KTAO hired McCarty after he gained a following at the other station. “This town’s been very, very good to me,” McCarty said. “When I first moved here, I was in a state of flux. This town, for some reason, accepted and embraced me, and I have nothing but love for Taos.”

‘I fell in love with the place. It’s the typical Taos story ...’

“Suddenly, I’m on the air for 13 hours several days. ... The phones would not stop ringing. ... I just opened up our airwaves to help. ‘What do you need?’ ... There’s page after page of names and numbers. ‘Can

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BEST OF TAOS 2016

sunsets, peaks AND VALLEYS

WHAT IS YOUR FAVORITE TAOS EXPERIENCE? By Joan Livingston

emember the old saying that the best things in life are free? Well, it seems appropriate given the answers we received for this question. Topping the nearly thousand responses were Taos’ breathtaking views. People commented on the beauty of Taos Mountain, sunsets and often both. “Watching the sky change color on winter evenings with new snow on Taos Mountain,”

BEST OF TAOS 2016

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one reader suggested.

town,” another put it.

beat that.”

One person enjoys “communing with the mountain.”

“Feeling totally at ease because you can venture to the lows of the Río Grande Gorge and the highs of Wheeler Peak.”

“Town of Taos council meetings, sunsets and hunting” was an interesting combo.

Of course, there were many votes for the view on the drive north along State Road 68 toward Taos. “Driving into town from Santa Fe and seeing the Río Grande Gorge,” one person wrote. “The first time I saw it. Coming out of the Horseshoe, seeing the moon on the horizon and the lights coming on in

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One reader mentioned double and triple rainbows. Recreation was tops for many folks: hiking, skiing, hiking and skiing, hiking or biking the Wild River area, and skiing on a powder day at TSV. “Just being in the outdoors with my family. Nothing could

Then there were those who favored Taos’ relaxed lifestyle. “How about doing nothing all day, two days in a row?” “The silence.” “Being outside with a fire in the kiva and a great drink in hand … just taking in the sites, smells and sounds of Taos!” People mentioned visits to

Taos Pueblo — “for a truly Taos Experience, you can’t touch bonfires on Christmas Eve” — plus green chile-roasting time and limitless art. Many responders noted good food, friendly people and the small-town feel. Here are two notable responses: “My first visit ever” and “coming home to Taos.” And finally, perhaps the answer that sums it up best: “Being here is my favorite Taos experience.”

best things to do *winners listed first and second, respectively

best things to do continues from Page 38

best place for kids to have fun

SIPAPU SKI & SUMMER RESORT

225 Camino de la Placita, Taos (575) 751-1402 twirltaos.org

best place to take a dip

TWIRL TOYSTORE & PLAYSPACE

OUTSIDE (IN GENERAL)

best place to enjoy free wifi WIRED? COFFEE-CYBER-CAFÉ 705 Felicidad Lane, Taos (575) 751-9473 wiredcoffeeshop.com

TAOS PLAZA

Downtown Taos taos.org/art/taos-plaza

best rafting company

LOS RÍOS RIVER RUNNERS

4003 State Road 518, Ranchos de Taos (575) 776-8854 losriosriverrunners.com

5225 State Road 518, Vadito (800) 587-2240 sipapunm.com

OJO CALIENTE MINERAL SPRING RESORT & SPA

50 Los Banos Drive, Ojo Caliente (800) 222-9162 ojospa.com

JOHN DUNN BRIDGE

On County Road B-007, over the Río Grande near Arroyo Hondo, inside the Río Grande del Norte National Monument taos.org

best place to soak OJO CALIENTE MINERAL SPRING RESORT & SPA

50 Los Banos Drive, Ojo Caliente (800) 222-9162 ojospa.com

BLACK ROCK HOT SPRINGS

Past the John Dunn Bridge on County Road B-007 taos.org

FAR FLUNG ADVENTURES

State Road 522, El Prado (575) 758-2628/ (800) 359-2627 farflung.com

best ski & snowboard area

TAOS SKI VALLEY State Road 150, Taos Ski Valley (866) 968-7386 skitaos.org

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BEST OF TAOS 2016

best educator ‘MISS SALLY’

Scott Gerdes

With the help of ‘staff’s kids,’ sixth-grade teacher Sally Greywolf doles out books to be moved to the Taos Charter School libray’s new middle-school section on May 25. Greywolf was voted “Best Educator” for Best of Taos 2016. Reading, she says, is something she encourages.

THE LUCKIEST TEACHER IN TAOS

‘My job is to help them figure out what they want, how to do it and, eventually, who they are.’

By Teresa Dovalpage

hen Sally Greywolf, the sixthgrade teacher at Taos Charter School, learned that she had been chosen “Best of Taos Educator,” her first words were: “The whole school deserves the award. All the teachers here are ‘Best of Taos.’ And the students, of course, also make it possible. They are all amazing.” Today her students are working on a play, “Julius Caesar,” adapted to include hip hop, dancing, singing, rap and “a lot of silly comedy.”

“It all has been the kids’ idea,” Greywolf said. “They run the show. My job is to help them figure out what they want, how to do it and, eventually, who they are.”

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A TEACHER’S JOURNEY

Greywolf earned a B.A. degree in education from Prescott College and a master’s degree in special education from the University of Northern Colorado. She is also a licensed teacher with endorsements in TESOL (Teachers of English to Speakers of Other Languages) and gifted education. Her pedagogical journey has taken her from China, where she taught English, to a middle school facility for delinquent teens in North Carolina. “I always laugh when people ask me if our middle school kids are tough,” she said. “In fact, all kids are teachable.” After working as a student teacher at a Navajo reservation, she and her husband, Rich Greywolf (currently the TISA director), traveled all over New Mexico. But

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they kept coming back to Taos. “People would say that the mountain called us, but we were really attracted to the many educational choices that we have here,” she said. She worked as a middle school and high school special education teacher with the Questa Independent School District before joining Taos Charter School in 2013. Her two sons, a third-grader and a sixth-grader, also study there. “This allows me to devote more time to the school,” she said. Her favorite class to teach is sixth grade, though Greywolf admits that she always favors the one she is teaching at the time. “Sixth-graders are magical,” she said. “They have just finished elementary school and get a fresh start in life. But they still want

hugs! And then they are so excited about everything. They know they can be all they want to be and that the possibilities are endless. It’s wonderful to be part of the process.” WHAT THE STUDENTS ARE SAYING

“I voted for her!” I heard this statement several times as soon as the students found out the purpose of the story. That and “she is awesome.” Three seventh-graders who were in Greywolf’s class last year had this to say about their beloved teacher: “Miss Sally was probably the best teacher I’ve ever had and maybe the best teacher I will ever have,” said Ana Bianga. “She has a great sense of humor. She is not super strict, but knows how to control a class and how to become

your friend at the same time.” “Miss Sally has a nice way of teaching so the students respect her instead of fearing her,” added Olivia Tennant. “She makes sure we all are learning what we are supposed to learn. When I didn’t understand something the first time she explained it, she put it in another way, just for me to get it right.” Ella Katz couldn’t wait to express her opinion, “She loves all her students. She makes you feel happy when you are in her class. And she also does many afterschool activities with kids who need help with their homework. She is amazing!” Greywolf shook her head and smiled. “When people tell me I was voted the best teacher in Taos I laugh and say, ‘No, I am the luckiest teacher in Taos.’”

THANK YOU

TAOS!

Thank You Taos!

For voting CAV as Taos County’s Best Non-Profit Your support helps CAV make a safer community for everyone. For over 38 years, CAV has provided free & confidential services for ALL survivors of domestic & sexual violence. To support or volunteer, call 758-8082 or visit TaosCAV.org. To donate goods visit CAV Thrift Store, 751-4824.

DR. SCHREIBER AND HIS DAUGHTERS ANNALEIGH (LEFT) AND LUCY (RIGHT) SAY

THANKS, TAOS! BEST DOCTOR IN TAOS Lucas Schreiber, MD – 1st Place Ellen Warren, MD – 2nd Place

24 Hour Crisis Line 575-758-9888 Hablamos Español

offiCe 945 saLazar road 575-758-8082

TaosCaV.org

Providing comprehensive, compassionate care to this community, in honor of the best doctor Taos has ever known, the late Larry Schreiber, MD.

Family Practice Associates of Taos DAILY WALK-IN CLINIC

Mon.-Fri. 8-11:30 am & 1:30-4:30 pm, Sat. 9-11:30 am 630 Paseo del Pueblo Sur, Suite 150

758-3005

Se Habla Español

“Thank you Taos, for letting me share my love of music with you.” –JIMMY

#1 SINGER/ SONGWRITER

#2 “THE JIMMY STADLER BAND” (ROCK BAND)

PHOTO BY TINA LARKIN

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BEST OF TAOS 2016

best entertainment

*winners listed first and second, respectively

best live music venue

TAOS MESA BREWING

20 ABC Mesa Road, El Prado (575) 758-1900 taosmesabrewing.com

KTAOS SOLAR CENTER 9 State Road 150, El Prado (575) 758-5826 ktao.com

best place to dance TAOS MESA BREWING

20 ABC Mesa Road, El Prado (575) 758-1900 taosmesabrewing.com

KTAOS SOLAR CENTER 9 State Road 150, El Prado (575) 758-5826 ktao.com

best local singer/ songwriter JIMMY STADLER

Lenny Foster

(575) 776-8234/(575) 770-7712 jimmystadler.com

Michael Hearne, voted ‘Best Local Country Band or Performer.’

MAX GOMEZ

(575) 741-6068 darrencordovaycalor.com

maxgomezmusic.com

DARREN CÓRDOVA Y CALOR

best local rock best local jazz group or performer group or performer KATY P & THE BUSINESS

CHRISTINE AUTUMN (575) 751-1885 christineautumn.com

facebook.com/KATYPAndTheBusiness

BIG SWING THEORY

(575) 776-8234/(575) 770-7712 jimmystadler.com

JIMMY STADLER

(575) 770-8926 thebigswingtheory.com

best spanish language band or performer EL GRUPO MEZCAL facebook.com ElGrupoMezcal

BEST OF TAOS 2016

best local country band or performer

KTAO — 101.9

9 State Road 150, Taos (575) 758-5826 ktao.com

KNCE — 93.5 (575) 737-TEAM truetaosradio.com

best local radio personality PADDY MAC, KTAO

MICHAEL HEARNE michaelhearne.com

9 State Road 150, El Prado (575) 758-5826 ktao.com

THE RIFTERS

MICHAEL DEAN, KKIT

rifters.net

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best local radio station

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125 Camino de la Merced, Taos (575) 758-4491 kkitthemountain.com

best place to hit the jackpot

TAOS MOUNTAIN CASINO 700 Veterans Highway, Taos (575) 737-0777 taosmountaincasino.com

BUFFALO THUNDER RESORT & CASINO

30 Buffalo Thunder Trail, Santa Fe (877) 455-7775 buffalothunderresort.com

Locally Owned for over 46 years HARDWARE “the helpful place”

1381 PASEO DEL PUEBLO SUR • 575-758-4268 223 PASEO DEL PUEBLO SUR • 575-751-2061 www.riograndeace.com

Thank you Taos and the surrounding areas for making us your Best of Taos!

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BEST OF TAOS 2016

best services best real estate agency

best pet groomer

best yoga studio

24822 U.S. 64 west, El Prado (575) 751-9247 10000wags.com

112-C Camino del la Placita, Taos (575) 758-8014 shreeyogataos.com

10,000 WAGS

BERKSHIRE HATHAWAY HOME SERVICES TAOS REAL ESTATE 314-A Paseo del Pueblo Norte, Taos (575) 758-1924/(800) 530-8899 berkshirehathawayhs.com

COLDWELL BANKER LOTA REALTY

204 Paseo del Pueblo Norte, Taos (575) 758-8673/(800) 829-8673 cblotaos.com

AVALYN’S PAW SPA 1036 Reed Street, Taos (575) 613-6188 avalynspawspa.com

best place to get inked (tattoo parlor) TAOS TATTOO AND PIERCING GALLERY

best real estate agent

LISA DAVIS, BERKSHIRE HATHAWAY HOME SERVICES TAOS REAL ESTATE 314-A Paseo del Pueblo Norte, Taos (575) 770-2983/(800) 530-8899, ext. 220 enchantedtaos.com

PAGE SULLIVAN, COLDWELL BANKER LOTA REALTY

*winners listed first and second, respectively

208 Paseo del Pueblo Norte, Taos (575) 224-3077/(855) 597-7793 taostattoo.com

best place to pamper your skin OJO CALIENTE MINERAL SPRINGS RESORT & SPA

50 Los Banos Drive, Ojo Caliente (505) 583-2233/(800) 222-9162 ojospa.com

SHREE YOGA

AURAFITNESS

1337-S Gusdorf Road, Taos (575) 758-9733 aurafitnesstaos.com

best gym & workout facility

TAOS SPA & TENNIS CLUB 111 Doña Ana Drive, Taos (575) 758-1980 taosspa.com

HIGH ALTITUDE HEALTH & FITNESS (FORMERLY NORTHSIDE SPA)

1307 Paseo del Pueblo Norte, El Prado (575) 751-1242 facebook.com/ highaltitudehealthandfitness

best place to play tennis

best bed & breakfast inn CASA BENAVIDES

137 Kit Carson Road, Taos (575) 758-1772 taos-casabenavides.com

ADOBE & PINES INN

4107 State Road 68, Ranchos de Taos (575) 751-0947/(800) 828-7872 adobepines.com

best place to say ‘i do’

EL MONTE SAGRADO 317 Kit Carson Road, Taos (575) 737-2985 elmontesagrado.com

IN THE MOUNTAINS

best bank

CENTINEL BANK

best hair salon

317 Kit Carson Road, Taos (575) 737-2985 elmontesagrado.com

88 State Road 150, El Prado (575) 776-3447 taostennis.com

512 paseo del Pueblo Sur, Taos (575) 758-6700 707 Paseo del Pueblo Norte, Taos (575) 758-6790 centinelbank.com

226 Paseo del Pueblo Norte, Taos (575) 758-1584 salonxtaos.com

best place for a massage

TAOS SPA & TENNIS CLUB

PEOPLES BANK

204 Paseo del Pueblo Norte, Taos (575) 758-7890/(800) 829-8673 taosrealestate.com

SALON X

EL MONTE SAGRADO LIVING SPA

OJO CALIENTE MINERAL SPRINGS RESORT & SPA

SALON MARJORIE 237 Ledoux Street, Taos (575) 751-7246 salonmarjorie.com

best barber shop

JOHNNY’S BARBER SHOP 308-A Paseo del Pueblo Sur, Taos (575) 758-4286

CARLOS’ BARBER SHOP

50 Los Banos Drive, Ojo Caliente (505) 583-2233/(800) 222-9162 ojospa.com

EL MONTE SAGRADO LIVING SPA 317 Kit Carson Road, Taos (575) 737-2985 elmontesagrado.com

402 Paseo del Pueblo Sur, Taos (575) 758-7187

BEST OF TAOS 2016

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TAOSNEWS.COM/BOT

TAOS TENNIS AT QUAIL RIDGE

111 Doña Ana Drive, Taos (575) 758-1980 taosspa.com

best lodging for visitors EL MONTE SAGRADO 317 Kit Carson Road, Taos (575) 737-2985 elmontesagrado.com

THE HISTORIC TAOS INN

125 Paseo del Pueblo Norte, Taos (575) 758-2233 taosinn.com

1356 Paseo del Pueblo Sur, Taos (575) 758-4500 219 Paseo del Pueblo Norte, Taos (575)758-4211 710 Paseo del Pueblo Sur, Suite A, (inside Albertsons) Taos (575) 758-5999 5 Supermarket Road, Questa (575) 586-2001 121 East Main Street, Unit 4D, Red River (575) 754-6224 bankingunusual.com

best services continues on Page 54

Congratulations to the 2016 Best of Taos Survey Winner! Dani Kesson of Taos won the $500 Cid’s Grocery Giveaway after completing 100% of the 2016 Best of Taos People’s Choice Survey. Thanks to Dani, Cid’s Food Market and the 2796 voters who made this year’s survey the biggest ever!

PHOTO: Cid BaCker Of Cid’s fOOd MarkeT, BeTH dOBOs Of THe TaOs News, aNd wiNNer, daNi kessON.

TAOSNEWS.COM/BOT

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BEST OF TAOS 2016

best services

*winners listed first and second, respectively

best services continues from Page 52

best plumber

BROWN & BROWN INSURANCE OF NEW PHOENIX MECHANICAL MEXICO 1217 Gusdorf Road, Taos

CID’S FOOD MARKET

623 Paseo del Pueblo Norte, Taos (575) 758-1148 627 Paseo del Pueblo Sur, Taos cidsfoodmarket.com (575) 758-2244 bbnm.com

(575) 758-3027 phoenixmechanical.net

HAWK MECHANICAL

best building contractor

1132 Paseo del Pueblo Sur, Taos (575) 758-4433 hawkmech.qwestoffice.net

WAYNE RUTHERFORD, THE TAOS DESIGN BUILD COMPANIES

best chimney sweeps

219 Cruz Alta Road, Taos (575) 751-7028 taosdesignbuild.com

TERRY’S CHIMNEY SERVICE

314-D Paseo del Pueblo Norte, Taos (575) 758-1825 terryschimney.com

BAILEY’S CHIMNEY CLEANING & REPAIR

MAGEE DESIGN

524 Paseo del Pueblo Sur, Suite H, Taos (575) 770-3002 jedmagee.com

best green business

(575) 770-7769 baileyschimney.com

CID’S FOOD MARKET

best auto repair shop

623 Paseo del Pueblo Norte, Taos (575) 758-1148 cidsfoodmarket.com

METRIC MOTORS OF TAOS

1314 Paseo del Pueblo Sur, Taos (575) 758-1658 metricmotorstaos.com

TAOSS OFFROAD AND PERFORMANCE 1010 Dea Lane, Taos (575) 758-7144 taosoffroad.com

best insurance company WANDA LUCERO, STATE FARM

211 Kit Carson Road, Taos (575) 737-5433 wandalucero.com

KTAOS SOLAR CENTER 9 State Road 150, Taos (575) 758-5826 ktao.com

business with the best customer service CENTINEL BANK

512 paseo del Pueblo Sur, Taos (575) 758-6700 707 Paseo del Pueblo Norte, Taos (575) 758-6790 centinelbank.com

best financial advisor RIC TREDWIN

707 Paseo del Pueblo Sur, Taos (575) 751-7285 edwardjones.com

best dentist

KELLIE HARRIS, DDS

1337 Gusdorf Road, Suite A, Taos (575) 751-9661 facebook.com/ HarrisKellieADDSFAGD

TOM SIMMS, DDS, TAOS DENTAL GROUP 1392 Weimer Road, Taos (575) 758-8303 taosdentalgroup.com

PAUL SANDS

best doctor

best local elected official

630 Paseo del Pueblo Sur, Suite 150, Taos (575) 758-3005 familypracticeassociatesoftaos. com

1103 Paseo del Pueblo Norte, Suite 4A, El Prado (575) 737-5772 edwardjones.com

DAN BARRONE, TOWN OF TAOS MAYOR 400 Camino de la Placita, Taos (575) 751-2000 dbarrone@taosgov.com taosgov.com

NATHANIEL EVANS, TOWN OF TAOS COUNCIL MEMBER (575) 751-2002 nevans@taosgov.com taosgov.com

best local website

TAOSNEWS.COM The Taos News 226 Albright Street, Taos (575) 758 2241

LIVETAOS.COM Live Taos editor@livetaos.com

BEST OF TAOS 2016

ELLEN WARREN, MD, FAMILY PRACTICE OF TAOS

630 Paseo del Pueblo Sur, Suite 150, Taos (575) 758-3005 familypracticeassociatesoftaos. com

best veterinarian

SALAZAR ROAD VETERINARY CLINIC 1025 Salazar Road, Taos (575) 758-9115 salazarroadvetclinic.com

TAOSNEWS.COM/BOT

best local nonprofit

CAV — COMMUNITY AGAINST VIOLENCE 945 Salazar Road, Taos (575) 758-8082 taoscav.org

best civic organization TAOS MILAGRO ROTARY CLUB taosrotary.org

LIONS CLUB taoslions.org

best administrative assistant JANET DEARING

Berkshire Hathaway Home Services, Taos Real Estate 515 Gusdorf Road, Suite 4, Taos (575) 758-5478 taoshomes.com

TED SCHUPBACH, TAOS CATHY VIGIL Ranchos Elementary School VETERINARY CLINIC 200 Sanders Lane, Ranchos de 41 State Road 522 north, Taos (575) 758-7310 taosvetclinic.com

best educator SALLY GREYWOLF

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Taos Charter School 1303 Paseo del Cañon, Taos (575) 758-8909 taoscharterschool.org

STRAY HEARTS ANIMAL LUCAS SCHREIBER, MD, SHELTER 1200 St. Francis Lane, Taos FAMILY PRACTICE OF (575) 758-2981 TAOS strayhearts.org

Taos Charter School 1303 Paseo del Cañon, Taos (575) 758-8909 taoscharterschool.org

NATHANIEL EVANS

Taos (575) 737-6150 taosschools.org

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