Enchanted Homes - holiday issue by The Taos News

ENCHANTED HOMES VOL. CXVIII

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WELCOME FROM THE TAOS COUNTY CHAMBER OF COMMERCE

PROTECT YOUR HOME AND DISCOVER WHY SO MANY NEW MEXICANS TRUST THEIR HOMES TO WANDA LUCERO

¡bienvenidos! Bienvenido a Casa or Welcome Home to our fellow Taoseños returning to spend joyous time with family and friends. The winter snows are celebrated throughout Taos County – on our slopes and in our shops, restaurants and galleries. The community is invigorated with sound of crunching snow under our boots and crystal clear skies overhead. Enjoy skiing terrain for everyone from beginners to black diamond experts, cross-country skiing, guided snowmobile tours, sleigh rides, tubing and snowshoe tours are also available. Welcome and join us at gathering spots to enjoy hot cocoa and biscochitos after a thrilling day of winter adventure. The Taos County Chamber of Commerce invites you to explore the Enchanted Circle through the pages of this Enchanted Homes Magazine and around the 87-mile loop that encompasses our communities of Questa, Red River, Eagle Nest, Angel Fire, Taos, Taos Pueblo and the Taos Ski Valley to see beautiful views of sparkling valleys, ice-encrusted rivers and trees trimmed with snow during the winter months. The members of the Taos County Chamber of Commerce include our local shops, banks, service providers, hotels, B&Bs, restaurants, galleries and museums, medical and legal professionals, town and county employees and individuals all work together to “Keep Taos Local.” The Chamber supports these efforts with our “Keep Taos Local, put your money where your heart is!” campaign that encompasses and expands on the national efforts to be mindful of your small, independent businesses. Please visit our stores, galleries, restaurants and museums to ensure this unique community is here for generations to come!

Wanda Lucero 211 Kit Carson Road 575-737-5433 wandalucero.com

The Taos County Chamber of Commerce is dedicated to creating a community of possibilities and opportunities for those new to Taos and lifelong Taoseños. Our slogan of “Taos County Chamber of Commerce Makes Business Better” is guiding our efforts to include all businesses and individuals in an enhanced life in Taos County. Please feel free to contact us for more information. Please visit our website at www.taoschamber.com for member events and current information. Welcome and enjoy our wonderful Taos County!

Executive Director Taos County Chamber of Commerce

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ENCHANTED HOMES VOL. CXVIII

@shotsfromabove

TAOS INSPIRED designbuildtaos.com

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ENCHANTED HOMES VOL. CXVIII

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ENCHANTED HOMES VOL. CXVIII

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ENCHANTED HOMES VOL. CXVIII

THE TAOS NEWS

ENCHANTED HOMES VOL. CXVIII

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Taos Ski Valley Realty is now

Keith Dowell Qualifying Broker

Private Listing 410 Cordoba Lane $1,400,000

Old Town Historic Charm! Situated on 2.05 secluded acres on a quiet street in walking distance to Taos Plaza this walled compound will take you back to Taos as it was 100 years ago. This old adobe home enjoys a distinctively park-like yard peppered with mature trees and with grassy areas around the total periphery – a stunning setting with lovely views of the mountains. Comprising three structures totaling 2,650 sq. ft. you will find 4 bedrooms and 3.5 baths, two garages, two carports, and a Bodega. This property makes for a unique and wonderful intown getaway for you and your guests!

100799 30 Eototo Road $525,000

The House That Looks Like a Painting on Blueberry Hill! This private and secluded 2,569 sq. ft. home situated on 1.24 acres offers a detached casita with a total of 4 bedrooms/ 3 bathrooms, spacious yard, and lovely views to the mountains. Conveniently located close to the Millicent Rogers Museum, enjoy easy access to Taos town or out to the Ski Valley Road. With vintage doors, brick floors, adobe walls and bancos, handhammered tin sconces, an elevated horno fireplace and multiple skylights, enjoy some old world Spanish warmth. This home is perfect for all seasons – make it yours!

We are pleased to announce that Taos Ski Valley Realty is now Engel & Völkers Taos Real Estate. In addition to our Taos Ski Valley office, we recently opened a brand new shop at 105 Paseo del Pueblo Norte - just off Taos Plaza. Founded in 1977, Engel & Völkers is a European-based real estate company that has shops in over 780 locations in 33 countries around the world and employs over 8,000 agents. The firm has been expanding rapidly in North America over the last 10 years initially focusing in second-home markets in beach and ski resorts, and more recently in larger markets such as Atlanta, Austin, Boston, New York City, and San Francisco, to name a few. To date, shops in US ski destinations can be found in Aspen, Bozeman, Eden, Lake Tahoe, Okemo-Woodstock, Park City, Sun Valley, Truckee and Vail. And now in Taos! Please stop by and see us. We would love to see how we can help you achieve your real estate goals.

Engel & Völkers Taos Real Estate 105 Paseo del Pueblo Norte · Taos· NM 87571 · USA· Phone +1-575-776-0600 • Text TAOS to 21000 www.taos.evusa.com © 2017 Engel & Völkers. All rights reserved. Engel & Völkers and its independent franchisees are Equal Opportunity Employers and fully support the principles of the Fair Housing Act. Each property shop is independently owned and operated. All information provided is deemed reliable but is not guaranteed and should be independently verified. If your property is currently represented by a real estate broker, this is not an attempt to solicit your listing.

ENCHANTED HOMES VOL. CXVIII

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Taos Ski Valley Realty is now

Keith Keith Dowell Dowell Qualifying Qualifying Broker Broker

LUXURIOUS LUXURIOUS CONDO’s CONDO’s at at the the ST. ST. MORITZ! MORITZ!

SNAKEDANCE SNAKEDANCE CONDOMINIUMS CONDOMINIUMS

WORLD WORLDCLASS CLASSLOCATION LOCATIONjust just22minutes minutesfrom fromthe theslopes; slopes;maybe maybeeven even closer. closer. Quality QualityConstruction, Construction,Beautiful BeautifulArchitecture, Architecture,Scenic Scenicviews, views,AND AND LOW LOWHOA HOADUES DUESmake makethis thisproject projectvery veryattractive. attractive. All AllUnits Unitsfeature feature Granite GraniteCounters, Counters,Kitchen KitchenAid AidStainless StainlessAppliances, Appliances,Patio’s Patio’s&&Balconies, Balconies, and &&Gas GasFireplaces. Fireplaces.Take Takeadvantage advantageofoflocker lockerroom roomon onground groundfloor floorand your yourown ownski skicloset! closet! These Thesecondo’s condo’sare arethe thebest bestvalue valueininTaos TaosSki SkiValley! Valley! MLS# MLS# 99428 99428 .......Unit .......Unit 101 101 ...........$384,000 ...........$384,000 ..................1BR ..................1BR MLS# MLS# 99430 99430 .......Unit .......Unit 102 102 ...........$384,000...................1BR ...........$384,000...................1BR MLS# MLS# 99431 99431 .......Unit .......Unit 302 302 ...........$482,000 ...........$482,000 ..................2BR ..................2BR MLS# MLS# 99429 99429 .......Unit .......Unit 402 402 ...........$438,900...................1BR ...........$438,900...................1BR MLS# MLS# 99714 99714 .......Unit .......Unit 202 202 ...........$530,000 ...........$530,000 ..................2BR ..................2BR

LOTS LOTS IN IN TAOS TAOS SKI SKI VALLEY VALLEY

MLS MLS ## 95878..................SOLD........................90 95878..................SOLD........................90 acres acres SOLD SOLD MLS MLS ## 95643..................$279,000.............. 95643..................$279,000..............1.14 1.14 acres acres MLS MLS ## 92140..................$139,000................ 92140..................$139,000................1.8 1.8 acres acres MLS MLS ## 99557..................$259,000................ 99557..................$259,000................0.46 0.46 acre acre

Elegant Elegantski-in/ski-out ski-in/ski-outcondominiums, condominiums,steps stepsfrom fromthe theslopes. slopes. Granite Granitecountertops, countertops,stone stonetile tilefloors, floors,travertine travertinetiles tilesininbath, bath,gas gas log logfireplaces. fireplaces.First Firstclass classamenities amenitiesinclude includeski-valet, ski-valet,hot hottub/ tub/ sauna, sauna,locker/exercise locker/exerciseand andmassage massageroom, room,restaurant, restaurant,bar barand and package/convenience/deli package/convenience/delistore. store.On Onsite sitemanagement managementcompany company with withaaproven provenrecord recordand andaggressive aggressivepromotion promotionmake makethese these condos condosconvenient convenientand andaagreat greatinvestment. investment.

MLS# MLS# 99472...Unit 99472...Unit 305....$359,000....2BR/2BA 305....$359,000....2BR/2BA MLS# MLS# 99471...Unit 99471...Unit 406....$499,000....3BR/3BA 406....$499,000....3BR/3BA MLS# MLS# 89854...Unit 89854...Unit 402....$525,000....3BR/3BA 402....$525,000....3BR/3BA MLS# MLS# 99481...Unit 99481...Unit 305....$299,000....1BR/1BA 305....$299,000....1BR/1BA

SKI SKI IN, IN, SKI SKI OUT OUT CONDOMINIUM CONDOMINIUM

Excellent Excellentski skiin, in,ski skiout outcondominium condominiumininthe theheart heartofofTaos TaosSki SkiValley, Valley, priced pricedtotosell. sell.Top Topfloor floorunit unitwith withno noone oneabove! above!Conveniently Convenientlylocated located unit; unit;close closetotothe theHot HotTub, Tub,Laundry Laundry&&Office, Office,but butnot nottoo tooclose. close.Top Top floor floorhas hasvaulted vaultedceilings ceilingswith withattractive attractivewood woodbeams. beams.Warm Warmliving living room roomwith withfireplace fireplacemakes makesfor foraagreat greatplace placetotorelax relaxafter afteraaday dayon on the theslopes. slopes.User Userfriendly friendlykitchen kitchenwith withbar. bar.Easy Easyaccess accesstotoall allTSV TSV amenities amenitiesand andchildren’s children’sschool. school.Outstanding Outstandingviews, views,reasonable reasonable HOA HOAdues, dues,and andgood goodrental rentalhistory. history.On-site On-sitemanagement managementofofnightly/ nightly/ weekly/monthly weekly/monthlyrentals. rentals.Unit Unitcomes comesalmost almostcompletely completelyfurnished!! furnished!!

MLS MLS ## 99357.......Unit 99357.......Unit 7.........$269,000.........2BR/2BA 7.........$269,000.........2BR/2BA

EDELWEISS EDELWEISS LODGE LODGE AND AND SPA SPA TAOS TAOS SKI SKI VALLEY’S VALLEY’S PREMIER PREMIER SKI-IN/SKI-OUT SKI-IN/SKI-OUT CONDOMINIUMS CONDOMINIUMS Only Onlyone oneluxurious luxurious2BR 2BRUnit Unitisisavailable. available.Turnkey Turnkeywith withgreat great rental rentalhistory historyand andon-site on-sitemanagement. management.Property Propertyamenities: amenities: spa, spa,exercise exerciseroom, room,hot hottub, tub,dry drysauna, sauna,boot bootlockers lockerswith withdryers, dryers, owner ownerstorage, storage,underground undergroundparking, parking,game gameroom, room,and andcafé, café,bar, bar, and andrestaurant. restaurant.Solid SolidHOA HOAwith withhealthy healthycapital capitalreserve. reserve. MLS# MLS# 97756...Unit 97756...Unit 409.......$595,000.........2BR/2BA 409.......$595,000.........2BR/2BA MLS# MLS# 98955...Unit 98955...Unit 402... 402... $1,050,000.........3BR/3BA $1,050,000.........3BR/3BA MLS# MLS# 99285...Unit 99285...Unit 214.......$420,000...........1BR/1B 214.......$420,000...........1BR/1B MLS# MLS# 100491.Unit 100491.Unit 203.......$650,000.................2BR 203.......$650,000.................2BR

SNOW SNOW BEAR BEAR CONDOMINIUMS CONDOMINIUMS Upscale UpscaleSKI SKIININ-- SKI SKIOUT OUTCondominium CondominiumininTAOS TAOSSKI SKI VALLEY. VALLEY. Featuring FeaturingaaModern Modernbut butRustic RusticDecor Decorstimulated stimulatedwith with OUTSTANDING OUTSTANDINGVIEWS. VIEWS.This Thisunit unitfeatures featuresaaliving/bedroom living/bedroom combination combinationand andan anadditional additionalseparate separatebedroom. bedroom.LOW LOWHOA HOA DUES DUESthat thatincludes includesaahot hottub, tub,parking parkingand andshuttle. shuttle.Established Established Rental RentalProgram Programalready alreadyininplace. place.Check Checkout outprices pricesofofother otherski ski in-ski in-skiout outcondo’s condo’sand andsee seeour ourVALUE! VALUE!

MLS MLS ## 99495.......Unit 99495.......Unit C3.......$169,000.........2BR/2BA C3.......$169,000.........2BR/2BA

BEAUTIFUL BEAUTIFUL NEW NEW SUBDIVISION SUBDIVISION near near the the TAOS TAOS COUNTRY COUNTRY CLUB! CLUB! 24 24Beautiful Beautiful22acre acrelots lotswith withfantastic fantastic360 360degree degreeviews. views. Affordable AffordableLot’s Lot’s55minutes minutesfrom fromthe theGolf GolfCourse. Course.Flat Flatland landperfect perfect LAKE LAKE FORK FORK CONDOMINIUMS CONDOMINIUMS for forbuilding; building;very veryserene sereneand andpeaceful. peaceful. Intelligent IntelligentCC&Rs CC&Rsthat thatwill will On Onthe theRiver Riverininthe theRockies, Rockies,Luxurious LuxuriousSKI SKIININSKI SKIOUT OUTCondominiums! Condominiums! The The protect protectproperty propertyvalues. values. All Allutilities utilitiestotothe thelot. lot. Shared SharedWells Wellsare are Sound Soundofofthe theRiver RiverisisMagical! Magical! Great GreatFloor FloorPlans, Plans,Affordable AffordableDues, Dues,Brand Brand alreadyininplace placeincluding includingaaShared Sharedwell wellalready alreadyininplace. place. NEW NEWRoof, Roof,Jacuzzi JacuzziBath BathTubs, Tubs,Steam SteamShowers, Showers,and andCovered CoveredParking. Parking. Great Great already

location locationtucked tuckedaway awayfrom fromthe thehustle hustle&&bustle, bustle,but butCLOSE CLOSEtotoeverything! everything! MLS MLS ## 97126 97126 ....... ....... Unit Unit 9....... 9....... $479,000......... $479,000......... 2BR 2BR && 2BA 2BA MLS MLS ## 99427 99427 ....... ....... Unit Unit 5....... 5....... $499,000......... $499,000......... 2BR 2BR && 2BA 2BA MLS MLS ## 100697 100697 ..... ..... Unit Unit 6....... 6....... $589,000......... $589,000......... 2BR 2BR && 2BA 2BA

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MLS MLS ## 100634 100634 .................... ....................Lot Lot 4......................... 4.........................$74,500 $74,500 MLS MLS ## 100636 100636 .................... ....................Lot Lot 9........................ 9........................$82,500 $82,500 MLS MLS ## 100640 100640 .................... ....................Lot Lot 14....................... 14.......................$82,500 $82,500 MLS MLS ## 100641 100641 .................... ....................Lot Lot 20....................... 20.......................$79,500 $79,500

ENCHANTED HOMES VOL. CXVIII

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Andee can open doors for you!

www.cblotataos.com

Cell:575-770-2060 Office: 575-758-8673

FEATURED LISTINGS STAKEOUT AREA

CARSON ACREAGE

CHARMING CONDO

MLS: 99929 3 acres $79,000

MLS: 99556 33.68 acres $30,000

MLS: 99827 $219,000 2Bed/2Bath

SEE FOREVER!

VIEWS! VIEWS! VIEWS!

CONVENIENT LOCATION!

GUADALUPITA FARM

STAKEOUT BEAUTY

BLUEBERRY HILL PARCEL

und

er c

ct tra

MLS: 100493 $329,000

MLS: 100632 333 acres $799,000

RIVER FRONTAGE!

TRUE TAOS STYLE!

andee@taosnet.com

LOTA REALTY, INC.

JUDY BUCK 575-758-8673 judy@cblotataos.com GRACIOUS LIVING ON UPPER RANCHITOS ROAD

Lovely old adobe surrounded by big cottonwoods, fruit trees and lawn with mature gardens plus frontage on the Rio Pueblo across the road from the main house. The house features a perfect office or extra bedroom, guest bedroom and master suite with remodeled bath en suite. The guest house is a studio with kitchen and bath and a bonus as a rental or for all your friends and family to visit. Located close to the center of Taos and very convenient to shopping or zipping north to Taos Ski Valley. MLS #100630 $659,000 CALL JUDY BUCK

HISTORIC TAOS PROPERTY

This is a great opportunity to restore a part of Taos’ history! The famous old bar has a long and interesting story to tell which may even include its very own ghost. Sitting on .425 acre on a corner lot in Ranchitos, the remnants of its past glory days are there to be rehabbed. Come see the possibilities! MLS $100543 $150,000 CALL JUDY BUCK View All Taos MLS Listings at www.cblotataos.com 16

ANDREA FROST

ENCHANTED HOMES VOL. CXVIII

Corner of Paseo del Pueblo Norte & Civic Plaza Drive 800-829-8673

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MLS: 96572 2.90 acres $89,000 GREAT VALUE!

JAN RADER, CRS, GRI 575-770-2012 jan@janrader.com

LOTA REALTY, INC.

JanRader.com EL RITO/LATIR

TOWN OF TAOS D UCE RED

RED UCE D

D UCE RED

ARTIST’S HOME! Sweet artist’s home on oversized lot west of Taos Plaza. Walk everywhere from this lovingly maintained 3BR/1BA home with lots of studio space. Ideal for full time or vacation living. Come take a look! MLS 99575 $270,000 CALL JAN!

LIVE THE DREAM! Stunning solar oriented home on 10+ acres of privacy. Two master suites, open floor plan, chef’s kitchen, panoramic views, beautiful finishes throughout. This is a must-see! MLS 100419 $375,00 CALL JAN!

QUESTA

TRES RITOS/SIPAPU

LIVE TINY, DREAM BIG! Three wooded acres near Carson National Forest with amazing views. Trailer onsite with power, cistern, solar pump, septic system. Live here while you make plans for the adjacent building pad. MLS 100557 $80,000 CALL JAN!

BRING THE FAMILY! Bright, spacious home in desirable Tres Ritos, near Sipapu Ski Area. 3 BR/2 BA, open floorplan, cook’s kitchen, only steps from fishing, hiking, skiing, sledding. Ideal for entertaining, good year round access. Many special features. MLS 100325 $274,000 CALL JAN!

EXCEPTIONAL BUILDING SITES TAOS COUNTRY CLUB Beautiful gated community, panoramic views, underground utilities. Three 3-acre lots available

DES MONTES Fabulous 14+ acre view lot in desirable Mariposa Ranch, all utilities in place, intelligent covenants.

VISTA LINDA Two lovely lots with golf course & mountain views, great locations, underground utilities.

HONDO MESA Five acre homesite with big views, good access, underground utilities, close to Rio Grande.

MLS 94914, 98928, 98927 $99,500 TO $137,000

MLS 99367 $229,000

MLS 99810 $80,000

MLS 100808, 98105 $60,000 & $65,000

View All Taos MLS Listings at www.janrader.com Corner of Paseo del Pueblo Norte & Civic Plaza Drive 800-829-8673 ENCHANTEDHOMESELLER.COM

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Peter A. Lora

225 Kit Carson Road

575-758-3275 peter@theloraco.com

www.realestatetaos.com

4-BR/4.5-BA NEAR PLAZA - Completely remodeled 2,900 sq. ft. home w/ 2 separate wings, each with kitchen and ample living spaces. On 0.4-acre private lot in classic old Taos neighborhood. Gardens, trees, covered porch, deck w/ hot tub. In-floor radiant heat, evaporative cooling. Fine home and/or a successful rental property. $725,000 MLS #100548 http://view.paradym.com/4069668

3BR/3BA CLOSE TO TOWN – Less than a mile from Taos Plaza, this remodeled 1,967 sq. ft. home features cozy living room with vigas, coved plaster ceiling & fireplace. Saltillo tile & hardwood floors. Air conditioning. Private back yard w/ deck & hot tub, trees, gardens. Walking distance to historic district, this home offers classic in-town living! $439,000 MLS #100635 http://view.paradym.com/4078434

CLOSE TO PLAZA - Delightful 2-bedroom/1.5-bath condo walking distance to shops, galleries, restaurants, museums, etc. Lots of outdoor living space, off-street parking. There are just two free-standing units in this association, and the monthly HOA fee is zero. Large yard. Fully furnished and ready to enjoy and/or rent! $235,000 MLS #99812 Both units available as a package, Price TBD. http://view.paradym.com/4006654

See All Taos MLS Listings At

Read our current Taos Real Estate Market Report with sales, price and inventory data, and prior year comparisons on our website.

CHARMING CONDO - Sweet 1-BR/1-BA just a few blocks north of the Plaza. Walk to everything in heart of Taos. Common area hot tub, laundry. Reasonable monthly HOA fee. Completely renovated and nicely furnished. $149,000 MLS #100161 http://view.paradym.com/4032644

INCOME PROPERTY – Excellent 3-unit property about 5 miles south of Taos center. All three units are 1BR/1BA, 640 sq. ft. with washer/dryer, deck with wonderful views. Well-maintained. Stable occupancy. Attractive return on investment. $250,000 MLS #98471 http://view.paradym.com/3835972

HORSE PROPERTY - Comfortable 3-BR/3BA home on 2.00 beautiful acres bordered by Seco Stream. Quiet end-of-the-road horse property w/barn, tack building, corral, greenhouse, chicken coop, dog kennel/fenced run. Nice yard with trees and outdoor living spaces. Attached heated 1-car garage. In a neighborhood of nice homes, only 4 miles from Taos Plaza. $397,000 MLS #100841 http://view.paradym.com/showvt.asp?t=4107097

www.realestatetaos.com

ENCHANTED HOMES VOL. CXVIII

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ENCHANTED HOMES VOL. CXVIII

PAVEL LUKES

“The next year he came back just to visit us and he talked us into coming to Michigan.” So Lukes and his brother moved to Paris and applied for student visas. While they waited, they worked in warehouses. Once the visas came through, they boarded a prop plane in Brussels and headed to the United States. That was Aug. 21, 1968. As the two Czech boys flew across the ocean, Russian tanks rolled into Prague to quash the Prague Spring revolt and reestablish Soviet control. The Lukes brothers heard about the invasion when they landed in New York. “We didn’t know what to do and we couldn’t call our parents right away,” said Lukes. “In a week, we called them and they told us not to come back, there was nothing in Czechoslovakia for us. “I can’t imagine how difficult it was for them to tell us that because they might never see us again,” he said. “But it was fate that it happened that way. And, it eventually led to our parents coming to live in California some years later.” The two Lukes boys learned English while living the next years in Michigan. Pavel cut his teeth as a builder-developer of some 300 buildings: “I loved the creativity of developing a project, and found real satisfaction in providing a home for human beings.” He then moved on to southern California where, in 1973, the final piece of fate’s puzzle came clear in a ski magazine.

DREAMCATCHER REAL ESTATE BY ANDY DENNISON

PHOTO BY KATHARINE EGLI

“In the years after, I came skiing in Taos a lot,” said Lukes, who became an American citizen in 1979 and finally returned to his home country for a visit in the mid-1980s. “During one visit, I suddenly decided that this was where I wanted to move and where I wanted to work for myself.”

Fate reaches down and taps us all on the shoulder at one time or another during our lives. It gives us a hint, shows us the way, offers options for change.

Taos became his permanent home in 1994, and Dreamcatcher Realty took shape. He not only brought years of real estate experience to bear, but also a life of learning how to adapt to unfamiliar surroundings and diverse types of people.

For Taos real estate broker Pavel Lukes, a couple of those moments in his life paved his route from Soviet Czechoslovakia to Taos, New Mexico. Once showed the way here, Lukes found that that Taos was where he was supposed to be.

“That produced my focus on the client that has served us well for more than 20 years in Taos,” Lukes said. “We listen well and never think about the money. We are not drive by greed and profit, which often can translate into cheating.”

His journey started as a kid in Prague where, despite Soviet restrictions, he got ahold of “hidden literature” about the Old West in the United States – and fell in love with the stories about cowboys, Indians and frontiersmen.

While Dreamcatcher has always had a large number of properties that they represent – “like merchandise on the shelf” -- Lukes insists that he and his associated do not drive customers to their listings exclusively.

“That stuff just resonated with me since I was a kid,” said Lukes during a recent interview at Dreamcatcher Realty.

REALTOR PROFILE

Already a skier in Czechoslovakia, Lukes read a story about a town where “cowboys, Indians and hippies all lived in the same place.” He flew to Denver, where he hopped a bus on a snowy night to Taos, ostensibly for a ski vacation.

The next moment came when Lukes, at 16, had a chance meeting with a professor from the University of Michigan who was in Prague for a conference – and staying in the same apartment house where the Lukes family lived. The professor spoke English and French, and wanted to get to know some Czech people. Lukes father spoke French, so the two struck up an acquaintance. “After he got to know us, he kept telling my brother and I, ‘Come to America, come to America and go to school,’” Lukes said.

“It’s critical in this company to spent time with clients and listen to what they want,” he said. “We never tell them that we know better what they want. This philosophy, what you might call a mission statement, has served use well here. It articulates the way I operate and way my staff operates.” Pavel Lukes feel fortunate that he took the chances that fate presented to him and ended up where he is happy and fulfilled. “I’ll never retire from this,” he said. “If you love what you do, it’s not work.” Pavel Lukes | Dreamcatcher Real Estate 515 Gusdorf #2 | (575) 758-3606 www.taosnewmexico.com

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AT HOME IN

RED RIVER

A BARN-STYLE HOME WELCOMES FAMILY AND VISITORS IN AN ALPINE SETTING

ENCHANTED HOMES VOL. CXVIII

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575-751-7639 www.crossroadstaos.com

Mark 575-770-0831 cell mpy@taosnet.com

Betty 575-770-0386 bettysanger@hotmail.com

Amanda 575-770-0830 taospaint@yahoo.com

Thomas 575-751-7639

COMMERCIAL LAND 11.5 MULTI FAMILY Paseo del Canon East $1.5 MLS 100763 8.33 COMMERCIAL Paseo del Pueblo Sur $1.8 MLS 98483 HISTORIC ANGLADA BLDG - 6000+ sq ft. .75 acres. Multi use event center. Canon on Witt Rd. $625,000 MLS 100124

CUTE 1500 sq ft home sits on .77 acres in Arroyo Hondo. Spectacular views of the Sangre de Cristo Mountain. MLS 100492

UPPER COLONIAS/ COMMANCHE 2.14 acre multi family adjacent to Quail Ridge $220,000 MLS 100563

RARE EL SALTO LAND 2.25 Acres Dead end privacy Irrigated Close to ski valley Juan de Dios $315,000 MLS 99095

MID CENTURY HOME on Witt Rd. approx 1.5 from Taos Plaza. Cute home with potential studio on property. MLS 100847

EL PRADO NORTH 2.36 acres just before blinking light MLS 98538 $535,000

Betty Sanger* Professional longterm rental + Property Management 575-770-0386

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ENCHANTED HOMES VOL. CXVIII

FRANCIS CÓRDOVA OF TAOS FEEDS TAOS:

9 QUESTIONS

BY CINDY BROWN

PHOTO BY KATHARINE EGLI I understand that your family has deep roots in Taos. How long has your family been here? I trace my family back to 1660 and Antonio de Córdova on my father’s side. The family came from Spain to Northern New Mexico and by 1680, they were living in the Taos and Española areas. The Martinez family on my mother’s side, I trace back to 1598 and they have lived here ever since. You helped start Taos Feeds Taos more than 30 years ago. Can you tell us how the program first began? We have been in existence for 32 years. Jim Ulmer asked me what I thought and together we went to National Guard headquarters to see General Baca. He immediately gave us his blessing to use the facility and the equipment. It was a slow start, but Jim’s dream was to continue to do this for as long as God permitted us. Little by little, Jim involved organizations to help, including the VFW, Kiwanis, Lions, etc. and all Taos local schools. Has the program made a difference for Taos families at the holidays? Yes, I believe it has. To date, we have had a lot of elders thank us for doing this. They tell us that in the past, it was a choice of a small present for the grandchild or food. Now they can do both.

9 QUESTIONS

What other ways have you been involved in the community? I was a board member of Kit Carson Electric and helped bring a program called “Neighbors Helping Neighbors” for the needy here. I was instrumental in bringing the VA Clinic to Taos and have been working with Senator Carlos Cisneros and Taos County Commissioners on a Veteran Cemetery for Taos County. I am involved with Taos Feeds Taos and veterans. I help veterans get their benefits and I am the Commander of the Disabled American Veteran’s Chapter 12 here in Taos. I am member of Congressman Ben Ray Luján’s Board for Veterans for District Three

Can you tell us about how you have served your country? I served in the Army National Guard in the Taos Unit from 1967-1980. In 1980 I was on active duty in the 5th Army with the New Mexico National Guard in Taos, until I retired in 2004. So my total service was 34.5 years in the military. We were activated to the prison riots in 1980. It was the worst prison riot in the nation; we saw and dealt with more bloodshed than had ever been seen. We also were called to the riots in Albuquerque and to fight several fires in the Taos and Los Alamos counties. ENCHANTED HOMES VOL. CXVIII

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What kind of work have you done in your life? Ranching, retail clerk at local groceries stores and journeyman for a New Mexico electric company. In the military, I was a Private all the way up to a First Sergeant. I’ve done lots of volunteer work. What do you most appreciate about Taos? My family and the people here in Taos. I appreciate the community and the beautiful mountains, rivers and lakes and being able to enjoy the open space to ride horses and go fishing. I enjoy being able to work with people in our community and preserving our local history. What makes Taos a special place to be for the holiday season? Taos is unique, we were all taught traditions that have been passed to us from our ancestors. We begin the season with Advent, preparing for the birth of the Christ child. We still prepare traditional foods such as tamales, empanadas, posole and chicos. We take part in church functions such as posadas and we also participate with our neighbors at the Taos Pueblo. We take great pride in sharing with others in need through our program Taos Feeds Taos. We invite all our locals and newcomers to participate in this great program. Would you like to offer a holiday greeting to the community? Yes, I want to wish everyone a Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year! ¡Feliz Navidad y un Feliz Año Nuevo! Francis Córdova | Taos Feeds Taos http://taosfeedstaos.org

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photo by Kirsten Jacobsen

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THE TAOS NEWS 48

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CERRO

To Costilla & Colorado CERRO

QUESTA

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El Norte

RED RIVER

SAN CRISTÓBAL

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SAN CRISTÓBAL To Tres Piedras & Chama

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Taos RANCHOS DE TAOS Country Club

STAKEOUT AREA

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TAOS

CAÑÓN HEIGHTS CANYON DE

WEIMER FOOTHILLS

To Pot Creek & Las Vegas

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ANGEL FIRE

VALLE ESCONDIDO

AÑÓN RD

TAOS CANYON WEIMER FOOTHILLS

LLANO QUEMADO

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To Pot Creek & Las Vegas

ANGEL FIRE

GET TO KNOW THE ENCHANTED CIRCLE

The Enchanted Circle encompasses Taos, Angel Fire, Eagle Nest, Red River and Questa. Known for its magnificent scenery and outdoor activities, the Enchanted Circle makes an outstanding day trip. Drive time is approximately 3 1/2 hours, but make plans for frequent stops along the way. It’s worth the extra time to discover the hidden treasures of Northern New Mexico.

TOWN OF TAOS Taos Plaza rests at the heart of the historic district, surrounded by shops, galleries and restaurants within easy walking distance, in the midst of quiet residential areas. It has a relatively flat landscape filled with cottonwood trees. Average home sale price: $254,896

BLUEBERRY HILL An area of sagebrush mesas, which is a popular area for houses. Average home sale price: $288,125

UPPER LAS COLONIAS A varied area of sagebrush and juniper, with easy access to the town of Taos and affordable home options. Average home sale price: $337,265

ARROYO HONDO, HONDO MESA A village of old adobes and other dwellings along the Río Hondo, with a rolling high desert mesa stretching toward the Río Grande Gorge. Includes popular fishing spots, as well as the historic John Dunn Bridge. Average home sale price: $240,481

ARROYO SECO, EL SALTO, DES MONTES Arroyo Seco is a picturesque village of galleries, shops and cafes, surrounded by the beautiful landscape and gorgeous views of the mountains. El Salto and Des Montes have rolling terrain with orchards and ranches. Arroyo Seco average home sale price: $375,181 El Salto average home sale price: $415,600 Des Montes average home sale price: $399,358

TAOS SKI VALLEY, VALDEZ Taos Ski Valley is world renowned with both national and international clientele. Most of the businesses are open year-round for outdoor enthusiasts of every season. Valdez sits at the foot of the canyon accessing Taos Ski Valley, providing high-altitude living amidst woodlands and valleys along the Río Hondo. TSV average home sale price: $410,666 TSV average condo sale price: $315,620 Valdez average home sale price: $236,633

TAOS CANYON, CAÑÓN This area is replete with hiking trails and campgrounds. Picturesque views of the mountainsides and the Río Fernando combine to form a lush, green landscape. Taos Canyon average home sale price: $167,777 Cañón average home sale price: $287,200

TAOS COUNTRY CLUB, STAKEOUT AREA A relatively new area of development with broad expanses of land affording unbroken mountain views, as well as the piñon-and-juniper covered “Outlaw Hill,” where Old West outlaws hid out from the law. Average home sale price: $342,444

RANCHOS DE TAOS, TALPA, LLANO QUEMADO Home of the most photographed church in the country (San Francisco de Asís), Ranchos de Taos is accented with quaint adobe structures, galleries and shops. High terrain and ridges afford views of the Río Grande Gorge and mountains. Average home sale price: $199,684

WEIMER FOOTHILLS An upscale neighborhood of rolling hills, it is close to schools, Holy Cross Hospital and the Taos Youth and Family Center. Building restrictions keep mountain and foothill views relatively unbroken. Average home sale price: $354,163

EL PRADO, RANCHITOS, CÓRDOVAS El Prado is comprised of meadows and ranch lands with small shops, cafes and other businesses along the highway. Ranchitos and Los Córdovas are similar but more residential. All have excellent views of Taos Mountain. El Prado average home sale price: $256,666 Ranchitos average home sale price: $350,400 Los Córdovas average home sale price: $245,452

VALLE ESCONDIDO Nestled in the mountains only 20 minutes east of Taos, Valle Escondido offers spectacular views, USGA golf, stocked fishing lakes, swimming pool and playground and community social life at the historic log clubhouse, all enjoyed by full-and part-time homeowners, with community water and household trash removal included. Valle Escondido is surrounded by the Carson National Forest, offering year-round recreation: hiking, hunting, camping, mountain biking, ATV trails and winter sports. A wide variety of homes can be found in Valle Escondido with an approximate starting price of $200,000.

ANGEL FIRE Cradled in the beautiful Moreno Valley, Angel Fire is a favorite destination for skiers in the winter and golfers, hikers and music lovers in the summer. Average home sale price: $381,170

RED RIVER This historic ski town invites visitors to explore its Wild West history along with its many shops and restaurants. Surrounded by the Carson National Forest, the village rests in a valley, with the Red River running through it. Average home sale price: $310,350

QUESTA An agricultural town at the mouth of the Red River, with a compact downtown of shops and restaurants and a variety of rural housing tucked between the Sangre de Cristo Mountains and the Río Grande Gorge. Average home sale price: $176,375

Joel Schantz, Berkshire Hathaway Home Services Taos Real Estate (www.BHHSTaosRealEstate.com), provided the information. DISCLAIMER: Statistics are based on MLS information for the period Jan. 1, 2014 through Dec. 31, 2014. Neither the REALTORS Association of New Mexico nor Taos County Association of REALTORS guarantees or is in any way responsible for its accuracy. Data is maintained by Taos County Association of REALTORS and may not reflect all real estate activity in the market. ENCHANTEDHOMESELLER.COM ENCHANTEDHOMESELLER.COM

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Keith Dowell Qualifying Broker

Your Taos Ski Valley Specialist!

ST. MORITZ CONDOMINIUMS LUXURIOUS NEW CONDOS IN TAOS SKI VALLEY!

Beautiful architecture featuring scenic balconies with OUTSTANDING VIEWS. GREAT LOCATION! Only two minutes from the slopes, shops, restaurants, and other establishments while at the same time TUCKED AWAY from the hustle and bustle. Quality construction with granite counter tops, beautiful stone-work, custom cabinets, and gas fireplaces. Low HOA dues make this new project very attractive. MLS# 99428 .......Unit 101 .........$384,000 ............1Br MLS# 99430 .......Unit 102 .........$384,000 ...........*1Br MLS# 91266 .......Unit 201 .........$529,000 ...........*2Br ! LD.........$499,000 MLS# 91267........Unit ............2Br SO202 ! D L MLS# 99431 .......Unit SO302 .........$482,000 ............2Br MLS# 99429 .......Unit 402 .........$438,900 ............1Br

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had a night before Christmas celebration back at her place after we all froze our butts off at the Pueblo, watching the processional. We did that for several years but when Bonnie and Josh moved from there to a real house on Burch Street some of that charm was lost. That house had central heat – something Josh never really wanted. And he couldn’t walk out his door and hike into the wilderness as before. But I digress. We then took it upon ourselves to host a holiday gathering. And our Christmas Eves always started at the Pueblo. I told all the newbies to put on all the clothes they owned because it sure could be cold. Back then it seemed colder in the village than these past few years but maybe it’s just a distorted memory. And after the procession was completed, and the people went off to the church, we made a beeline to our cars before the road out of the Pueblo got congested. For me the holidays mean fire. Warmth. Love of family and friends. And the blessings of having a real house that is comfortable and allows for us to share with others. We cannot forget that not everyone has what we have – and we don’t all have equally. But compared to those struggling to survive in places around the world, we have it made in the shade. For me the holidays mean food, prepared in our home or the homes of family and friends. Special foods that we don’t eat all year long. Foods that we can all share and oh how blessed we are for the bounty we share. I must admit that as disciplined as I am all year long it is hard to not indulge in the sweets of the season. For me the holidays mean fireworks. I so love to go to the Ski Valley and stand and watch the colors and shapes explode against the backdrop of a white canvas supplied by Mother Nature. It does get cold standing there but to me it’s as much fun as the fireworks on the 4th of July put on in

ENCHANTED HOLIDAY:

FOND MEMORIES MAKE TAOS HOME

BY HARVEY BLAUSTEIN We all – except maybe for Scrooge himself - have warm and fuzzy

New York by Macy’s. For me the holidays mean farolitos, lighting the way for whoever seeks a path. For me it is not the religious symbol it may be to others but I can appreciate them for what they are and what they represent. For me the holidays mean snow and cold, as the chilliest 30 days of the year here seem to be from Dec. 15 to Jan. 15. Who can forget when it was minus 28 here? When the natural gas delivery system got all fritzed and messed with and Texas got the fuel but not Northern New Mexico. Oh, how we all were angry – but only after we got our heat back and we defrosted.

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memories around the holidays, and for most of us they surround our homes. For me, someone who has had several homes over a lifetime, my

But mostly the holidays mean home. Having those that we love and treasure

greatest memories are those from my time spent here in Northern New

with us to enjoy a special time when we stop to count our blessings, to smell

Mexico and, more particularly, Taos. I think those of us blessed to spend

those roses, to think about the year past and the year to come. And for

some time here during this special season feel the same. But my wife

some they will think about what all this costs and how they will pay for the

has taught me not to speak for anyone else – especially her – so heaven

wonderful time spent. Oh, how I hate it when reality creeps in!

forbid I do that. Especially at this time of year.

The spirit of the holidays is alive and well in Taos. So many merchants go

When we first came here we were fortunate to be on the guest list

out of their way to create displays to draw us into their stores. So many

for Christmas Eve in the home of Bonnie and Josh Bryant. She was a

homeowners put up lights or decorations to commemorate the season. And

mover and shaker in the real estate business here in the ’90s and Josh

there is no better place to be than a home in Taos for the holidays – but

brought us The Taos Talking Picture Festival, which unfortunately has not

always after that special time at the Pueblo on Christmas Eve.

survived. Back then she gathered her clients so we all got to know each other. They lived in what I would call a hippie house in El Salto. With no

Happy Holidays, folks.

central heat it was a challenge staying warm in winter. But Bonnie always Harvey Blaustein is a retired attorney and local real estate broker. 70

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603 Camino da la Placita Taos, NM 87571 575-737-5678 hblau4@gmail.com www.taospremierproperties.com

PRIME COMMERCIAL LAND WITH HIGHWAY FRONTAGE… We proudly offer 11.28 acres of C-2 land along the highway that leads into Taos. Surrounding the Visitor’s Center, the traffic count at this location is high, the visibility great, and there is frontage on both State Highway 68 and Gusdorf Rd. $2,450,000 MLS# 99743

THERE IS AN INTIMACY WITH THE MOUNTAINS... from the prestigious Mariposa Ranch subdivision that makes it so special, and so desired, and we can help you create your world there.We proudly represent the owners of lot 7, with its 360 degree views, where the parcels are large, the homes are grand, and the restrictions protective. Here is a premier location between the town of Taos and the Taos Ski Valley with easy access to the charming village of Arroyo Seco. $184,000 100582

PREMIUM R-4 SITE NEAR THE PLAZA… The most

important phrase in our residential real estate market is “in walking distance to the plaza” because that is what most folks want when they look for a home here. For those that want to meet this need, we proudly offer a 4.25 acre site, the largest undeveloped R-4 location close to the plaza in town, between Salazar and Santistevan Roads, with frontage on Ranchitos, and access off Santistevan. Owner/broker $399,000 MLS #99029

IF YOU TREASURE WIDE OPEN SPACES… and love the land-

scape that dominates around here, we have the perfect place to create your own special world.We proudly offer 1 sq mile of land between Taos and Tres Piedras. Run naked, build a commune, create a yoga retreat, or just sit and meditate - but privacy abounds for those that treasure it. And the views just can’t be beat. $480,000 MLS # 97934

“I AM A STRATEGIC THINKER, PAY ATTENTION TO DETAILS, AND GET THINGS DONE.” HARVEY BLAUSTEIN, QUALIFYING BROKER

AN IMPORTANT COMMERCIAL CORNER…

If you do business with locals and are looking for the perfect location, we proudly offer the very prominent corner of Salazar and Ranchitos Roads. This is one of the most desirable commercial locations in town, which most residents drive by daily. It consists of .64 acres and is zoned CBD with more land possible. Owner/Broker $329,000 MLS #99026 ENCHANTEDHOMESELLER.COM

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