THECITY Magazine El Paso • July 2013

EL PASO MAGAZINE

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FASHION · HEALTH · TRAVEL EL PASO MAGAZINE

July 2013

EDITOR-IN-CHIEF Shelley Mozelle shelley@thecitymagazineelp.com

business and EVENT COORDINATOR Josh Sanchez josh@thecitymagazineelp.com

copy editor Kim North kim@thecitymagazineelp.com

EDITORIAL DESIGN BluePanda Design Studio COVER: Bob Wingo

web producer/Staff writer

PHOTOGRAPHY BY:

Daniel Bell

Dav Anmed

daniel@thecitymagazineelp.com

STYLED BY:

aDVERTISING EXECUTIVES

Josh Sanchez

Jacqueline Ramsey jackie@thecitymagazineelp.com

Lisa Carrejo

WARDROBE PROVIDED BY:

lisa@thecitymagazineelp.com

Union Fashion

Christian Uribe christian@thecitymagazineelp.com

SENIOR STYLE DIRECTOR Yubia Fierro / OTTO

EDITORIAL CONTRIBUTORS Felipa Solis, Jannet Bustillos, Grace Neuhaus, John del Rosario, Michelle Cromer, Adrian Vaquera, Patrick Martínez, Candace Vasquez, Adair Margo, Andrés Rodríguez, Cassie Jean Johnson, Daniel Bell, Meagan Kinley, Josh Sanchez, Michael Graham, Bob Nitzburg, Vic Poulos, Erin Coulehan, Amanda Noth, Ryan Heape.

PHOTOGRAPHY “THE CITY” El Paso Magazine welcomes your comments. Please send letters to “Letters to the Editors” 661 S. Mesa Hills, Suite 204, El Paso, Texas 79912, or email the editors. Phone number: (915) 500-5730. Fax: (915) 500-5732.

Letters addressed to THE CITY El Paso Magazine become the property of the magazine, and it owns all rights to their use. Letters may be edited for space.

All rights to the contents of this magazine are owned in full by the magazine and may not be reproduced in whole or in part without written permission from the Editors in Chief. Views expressed herein are those of the authors and advertisers and do not necessarily reflect the opinion of the ownership or management of the magazine.

All rights reserved.

David Anmed, Mario Arizpe, Joe Louis Aguirre, Robert Corral, Junior Miranda

CONTRIBUTING AD DESIGNER Nate Meyer

CREATIVE SUPPORT Theresa Guerra, Ibrahim Sánchez

IntErns 2

www.thecitymagazineelp.com

Cassie Jean Johnson, Meagan Kinley, Junior Miranda

July, 2013

CONTENTS

18 THE CITY

in and out

Summer Trends

By CASSIE JEAN JOHNSON

22 BEAUTY

Bright and Shiny Summer

By CASSIE JEAN JOHNSON

24

28

MEN’S GROOMING

His Prerogative July’s Grooming Essentials

By ADRIAN VAQUERA

40

WINE

The Bubbly Basics

By VIC POULOS

THE CITY

Pool Party Essentials The Modern Pool Party

By JOSH SANCHEZ

30

THE LOOK

Summer Splash Make Summertime Hot 44

By JOSH SANCHEZ

FOOD

Indigo in Bloom July is National Blueberry Month

By KIM NORTH

48

56

THE CITY

By JOHN DEL ROSARIO

By ADAIR MARGO

52 ZOO HAPPENINGS

Spring Births Make for an Exciting Summer

By ERIN COULEHAN 4

Viva! El Paso

Dance and Drama in the Canyon

Walks Along the Levee Road

New to the Zoo

THE CITY

68

PROFILES

Local CEO’s

By THE CITY

This summer, elevate your game.

summer

Stay & Play • Standard room for one night • Breakfast for two at Apache Tee • Golf for two and gift • Two Inn margaritas

$238

Sun -Thurs.

June 3 - Sept. 30

Offer Code: GLF13AS

Discover the other New Mexico.

There’s the Southwest that’s dry, flat and hot. Then there’s us – a mountain oasis where cool alpine breezes whisk across pristine lake shores and where every guest is made to feel like the only guest. This is living. This is Inn of the Mountain Gods.

InnoftheMountainGods.com

1-800-545-9011 Mescalero, NM near Ruidoso

FULL CASINO | LUXURY RESORT | CHAMPIONSHIP GOLF |

*Plus tax. $10 Resort fee added per night. Offer valid Sunday-Thursday only, June 3- September 30, 2013. Offer code: GLF13AS. Standard room included. Upgrades are available for an additional charge. Blackout dates on hotel and golf apply. Limited or no tee times available during golf tournaments. Golf is weather permitting (rain checks available). Tee times are not guaranteed. Not available to groups or attendees. One offer per visit. May not be combined with other offers. Credit/debit card preauthorization or $100 cash deposit per night required upon check-in for incidentals. Must be 21 or over to reserve room. No pets allowed. Management reserves all rights. The Mescalero Apache Tribe promotes responsible gaming. For assistance, please call 1-800-GAMBLER (1-800-426-2537).

July, 2013

74

80

76

THE CITY

El Paso Stay-cations Wanderlust on a Budget

By MEAGAN KINLEY

HEALTH AND FITNESS

TRAVEL

Beach Body Boot Camp

The Art of Travel – A Universal Language

Get Slim for Summer

By PATRICK L. MARTINEZ

By AMANDA NORTH

86

84 LOVE & ROMANCE

90

SPIRITUALITY

THE CITY

Summertime is a time for growth

Acquiring Your First Home

Changing

Body Language Do’s & Don’ts

By JANNET BUSTILLOS

Property Virgins

By MICHELLE CROMER

106

110

HIDDEN GEMS

THE CITY

95 PROFILES

El Paso Realtors

By THE CITY

The Tap

A Diamond in the Rough

By JOHN DEL ROSARIO

By MEAGAN KINLEY

Plaza Classic Film Festival

The World’s Largest Classic Film Fest

By JOHN DEL ROSARIO

114

118

122

126

LOCAL ARTIST SPOTLIGHT

SPORTS

MOVIES

THE CITY

UTEP’s Gentle Giant

Is 3D Bigger and Better?

By JUNIOR MIRANDA

Natalie Baca – The New El Paso Artist

By RYAN HEAPE

Anete Steinberga

By BOB NITZBURG

134 INVESTMENT

When is Taking on Debt a Good Idea?

By AGUSTIN MONTES

137

138

MEDICAL

ASTROLOGY

Tired of Looking at Your Scar?

By MARCO A.

GONZALEZ, M.D. 6

6

Signs of Love

By GRACE

THE PSYCHIC LADY

Summer Blockbusters

By FELIPA SOLIS

60

THE CITY FEATURES When Passion and Purpose Collide Bob Wingo –

The Man Behind the Suit

By MICHAEL C. GRAHAM

Splashes In the garden

July, 2013

{ let ter from the }

EDITOR IN CHIEF "I don’t believe the sky is the limit when there are footprints on the moon." ~ AUTHOR UNKNOWN

hen this magazine arrives summer will be in full swing. Children are being transported from tennis to summer ball practice, and we’ll all meet at the gym getting our bodies ready for those much looked-forward to pool parties.

Enjoying the El Paso weather is restful for the soul, especially for those type-A personalities that often find themselves earning the title of CEO.

W

I love what I do; the people I meet throughout the course of my day are often life changing. When you sit down to read our cover story on Bob Wingo, I hope you, our reader, are able to assimilate the power of strength and astuteness that Mr. Wingo projects. The sheer opportunity of spending part of my day with this high-performance CEO, along with members of his company, was at it’s least inspiring. I’ve noticed there are two seemingly dichotomous things that make the best CEOs tick. One, they tend to have this incredible energy and courage of conviction in their strategy and in the power of the organization to lift its game. Without that, I guess it wouldn’t be possible to make extraordinary things happen. Yet, at the same time, they tend not to become dogmatic about their strategy. Secondly, they have either an uncanny knack of reading the future, or being in the right place at the right time. Wishing I could emulate his business mind, I wondered at what point Bob Wingo simply decided to step on the accelerator, and what gave him the momentum. One would wonder if he is very methodical in his business planning or if he simply, with all his business background, sometimes just rolls the dice. Whatever drives him I hope it’s contagious and that I’ve left his presence a little wiser, tougher, and somewhat able to emulate his business practices.

8

Having lived in El Paso for many years, it is close to impossible to never have heard of Viva! El Paso. This show is more than just a show; it is tradition, culture, and a way of life. History fills the story of El Paso and Viva! does it justice. Every parent should take their children to this performance of dance and story, not once but consecutively throughout the warm El Paso summers to keep history alive in our hearts and minds. Covering this El Paso staple that has 36 years of existence and over 400 years of history in its playbook, reminds us, we can never let Viva! go and so we must continue our support and trips to the McKelligon Canyon Amphitheater.

Casablanca, Gone With The Wind… all the films that take us back to a time and place where we first saw them, who we were with, and what we ordered at the concession stand. More than a first date, or evening with a loved one or maybe the kids, classic films are timeless and eternal. The Plaza Classic Film Festival not only celebrates these but also many others that you may have never even heard of or watched.

El Pasoans should note that people travel from many cities, states, and yes, even other countries to watch these films here in El Paso, and yet some of us out there don't even know about it. This year, plan on attending at least one film. Take a chance on that one with the silly name; you never know what the experience may bring you.

Whoever said, "There is nothing to do in El Paso," lied through their teeth. El Paso is actually a beautiful city filled with people that love to celebrate the good things in life. I hope that these opportunities inspire you to share the genuine magic of this unique city.

In City Magazine news, we excitingly took on a new adventure and re-launched our newly designed website. If you’re out of the loop and haven’t been privy to view our new site, this would be a perfect time to stop by and click on www.thecitymagazineelp.com. Flip through the e-mag, tap on one of our advertisers and you will immediately be directed to their individual websites or maybe even their latest commercial. Pay special attention to our behind the scenes footage of both the launch parties and photo shoots. We’ve gone viral! However you choose to navigate, we hope you find our new site user-friendly and informative. Special thanks to our own Daniel Bell who spent many hours committed to bringing you our website that places you right in the middle of The City Magazine.

As always, enjoy the magazine,

and expect the unexpected.

www.thecitymagazineelp.com

Piaget Manufacture movement 880P Mechanical self-winding chronograph Flyback, dual time 100 meter water resistant Titanium with black ADLC treatment Sapphire case-back, rubber strap

www.piaget.com

Colony Cove on North Mesa Street (915) 584-4700

July 2013

the city

the Contributors

1

2

3

4

5

6

7

8

9

10

11

12

1) 2) 3) 4) 5) 6)

12

Michael C. Graham GRACE The Psychic Lady FELIPA SOLIS CANDACE VASQUEZ ADRIAN VAQUERA DAVID ANMED

7) JOHN DEL ROSARIO 8) Andrés Rodríguez 9) JANNET BUSTILLOS 10) Adair Margo 11) PATRICK L. MARTINEZ 12) Robert Corral

www.thecitymagazineelp.com

July 2013

For full contributor bios go to www.thecitymagazineelp.com

13

14

15

16

17

18

19

20

21

22

23

24

13) 14) 15) 16) 17) 18)

YUBIA FIERRO MICHELLE CROMER Victor Poulos Noe Lopez Daniel Bell bob nitzburg

www.thecitymagazineelp.com

19) Meagan Kinley 20) Amanda North 21) Ryan Heape 22) Erin Coulehan 23) Luis Miranda, Jr 24) Maggie Asfahani Hajj

13

we make

better websites

and

design video www.commonpeoples.com

July 2013

By: CASSIE JEAN JOHNSON

in and out for her

IN: OXFORDS

trend for summer! Although Sperry’s have been

To liven up your summer, metallic and neon

a huge trend because of their amazing comfort,

bright oxfords are the perfect touch for a

oxfords and flats are just as comfortable

preppy, fun look! Pair neon or metallic oxfords

and add the perfect classic touch to your

summer attire! Even if it is hard to give up your Sperry’s, switching up your style will give a new exciting look just in time for summer!

IN: LOW CALORIE SUMMER DRINKS For refreshing poolside drinks without the added calories, you can create your own delicious cocktails in minutes! Whether it is champagne you are craving, bourbon or even cider, by adding less sweeteners to your drink you are losing the extra-unwanted calories by simply substituting ingredients. By making these yummy drinks yourself you are ensuring healthy sugar-free ingredients to your favorite summertime refreshing drinks.

OUT: SODAS AND HIGH CALORIE DRINKS Even though we are all guilty of having a soda, especially in summer, they are full of calories, and seem to even wear us down in the extreme heat we have to endure. We need a nice refreshing, replenishing drink for summer without the extra calories and sweeteners. For healthy summer drink tips search online for a low calorie version of your favorite drink. Avoid the sodas and sweetened teas and juices this summer and stay healthily refreshed!

with white capris and a bright top for a clean, crisp feel while also looking fresh and expressive. For another fresh summer look, pair neon or metallic oxfords with fun party Bermuda shorts, and a floral or striped top!

OUT: SPERRY'S Sperry’s are slowly fading as a trend for summer; expect to see more loafers with classic details along with leather slippers, which are also a top www.thecitymagazineelp.com

19

for him IN: TRENDY SWIm TRUNKS

them because they are your favorite swim

for men, it is typically hard to find a stylish

trunks or still fit, it’s time to change it up and

pair of swim trunks that flatters you and is

try something new and fun this summer! If

age appropriate. For this summer swim trunks

you want a pair of trunks that are fun, but not

are shorter and vary in fabrics and patterns.

too eccentric, try fun patterns or just brighter

OUT: NOT WEARING A FRAGRANCE

The crazier color combos are a must for

colored trunks. The styles vary, and it’s always

You always want to look and feel your best, and

summer trunks! Dots are unexpected and

nice to try something completely different, and

by wearing an incredible smelling fragrance

fun for summer especially at the pool or beach.

unexpected but also compliments your body.

you can make it happen! Today, for men, there are many choices to choose from, and can

Checkered patterns are fun as well. A new trend this summer is retro-styling trunks that are

IN: A SIGNATURE SCENT

even change your mood completely. If you are

60’s inspired and are sure to draw the wanted

Finding the right cologne can be tricky for most

feeling very stressed, try Gucci Guilty Black, if

attention to your toned physique. Dare to try a

men. When you find the right fragrance for you

you want to feel confident, try Vince Camuto.

new bold trend and let your swim trunk choice

it truly completes your overall persona and

Because of the different citruses and infu-

speak for itself!

appearance. Try going to the fragrance store

sions used in fragrances it can help change

and test out at least three different colognes.

your mood and feelings. Take advantage of

OUT: LAST SUmmERS SWIm TRUNKS

When you find one that you think really suits

not only smelling great, but feeling great as

Most men tend to be creatures of habit, and

you ask for a sample and try it for a few days

well. Find your signature scent and leave her

do not want to throw out old swim trunks, no

to make sure it is the right scent for you.

wanting more!

matter how faded they are. Whether you keep

for EVERYONE IN: DINNER SALADS For a nice, light summer meal that won’t leave you feeling stuffed, try salads tossed with tortellini or whatever your favorite pasta is. It is not only easy to make, but is much healthier than a full course meal. By adding the pasta, it will leave you feeling energized and full. If you don’t like pasta there is another alternative, try a Tuscan Tuna Nicoise salad. Also adding a hard-boiled egg to any meal is very nutritious and also delicious! Who said eating salads couldn’t be fun and amazingly delicious, while also letting you eat a little healthier!

20

www.thecitymagazineelp.com

in and out

OUT: HEAVY FOUR-COURSE MEALS Everyone assumes dinner must consist of a three, to four-course meal. Well this summer you can change that by simply reducing your portion intake, and replacing some of your usual meals with nice, light green salads, or fruit salads if you are craving something sweeter.

Heavy meals can always leave you feeling stuffed, especially in the summers heat. Keep yourself feeling refreshed and light this summer by cutting back on heavy meals. Dinner meals can be enjoyable and fun without the hassle of preparing for a full-on feast!

IN: GETTING AWAY FOR THE SUMMER We all need time away, especially in the summer. With our consuming busy schedules it almost seems impossible to make that happen. If you are worried about cost, plan your trip way in advance, or look for traveling deals online. Even if your destination is just an hour or two away, make your trip more relaxing and memorable by simply turning off your cell phone and reducing stress. We need the time to connect with our significant other and to enjoy one another’s company. Treat yourselves to an unforgettable getaway trip this summer!

OUT: NOT VACATIONING THIS SUMMER Not taking the time to plan a trip and getaway this summer should never happen! Take the time now to plan a fun trip even if it is only for a couple of days. We all need time away from the office and stress in our lives and a little time off for vacation is exactly what the doctor ordered! Whether it is a fun family trip, a romantic getaway, or just a guys’ or girls’ trip, make it an unforgettable, relaxing summer full of memories. www.thecitymagazineelp.com

| By CASSI E JE AN JOH NSON

|

BEAUT Y

Schools out, the nights are warmer, summer is finally here, and what better way to start off your summer then with the latest fashion and makeup trends!

N

ow that most of our attire for

must have for summer, is none other than

summer will consist of bathing

renewing Moroccan Argan oil. This weight-

suits, we have to have our fin-

less oil formula infuses hair not only with

gernails and toenails perfectly manicured

a touch of shine, but also gives you those

with the hottest shades of color for summer!

summer highlights while mending unwanted

must-

split ends. This sensational hair product also

have color for

protects against UV damage and harmful

The your pedi’s

mani this

and

high-heat styling products. Another beauty

sum-

must-have for this summer is Yves Saint

mer is an emerald-in-

Laurent mascara Volume Effet Faux Cils. This

spired shade of green.

mascara offers a luxurious false lash effect

But an even bolder, fun

so you won’t have to resort to uncomfortable

and unique manicure, that

false eyelashes anymore! Lastly to really en-

will be sure to turn heads,

hance your summer appearance, try different

is Minx. Minx nails has end-

sexy shades of eye shadows. For either day

less colors, shapes and patterns

or night, try Too faced The return of SExy

to choose from and is so easy to

eye shadow palette kit. This kit comes with

use. This sticker, foil-like manicure

easy 1,2,3 steps on how to perfect a glow-

is truly unique and perfect for a sum-

ing, natural day look and later transform it into

mer outfit. Whether it is a bright pop

an enchanting, mysterious night look. The kit

of color or the metallic sheen patterns,

also comes with an easy glide-on eyeliner and

there is a minx style for every woman

smudge liner to perfect intense smoky night-

and for every outfit! This manicure is ideal

time eyes! Lastly, included in the kit is shad-

for summer because it doesn’t ware, fade,

ow insurance primer, which should be applied

or chip and it lasts for over a month. You can

before eye shadow to prevent creasing in

purchase Minx online or find a local nail sa-

your shadow. Whether you want a light pop of

lon that supplies Minx nails. This fun, unique

color or an extreme defining smoky eye

manicure adds just the right detail and pop of

look, this eye shadow palette has eve-

color to any summer outfit! With the harsh

rything you need for a different day and

heat and dryness that comes with summer,

evening look each day of summer. Have a

a new amazing healing dry oil for hair and a

bright and shiny summer!

Quick Trick: Attention Ladies!

Summer flip-flops are full of gross bacteria and germs! Protect yourself from these disgusting harmful germs by simply washing your hands and feet after touching your flip-flops you wear, and then soak them every other week in mild bleach for at least two minutes. www.thecitymagazineelp.com

23

| By Adrian Vaquera | 24

July 2013

July, 2013

GROOMING

May this month's grooming advice provide you the knowledge you need to help you claim your independence from the tiresome and painful experience that is "getting ready". No longer will you feel the need to forgo a grooming regimen due to the limited options we thought we had, that made the process boring and routine. The following products make up July’s grooming essentials selected from companies that understand, appreciate and cater to the male population. So throw out that old notion of what you thought grooming was all about, and celebrate your manhood by indulging and pampering yourself for once.

Facial Care: Ursa Major Fantastic Face Wash

Mask: The Body Shop Tea Tree Face Mask

This sulfate-free "Alpha/beta hy-

If only removing impurities from life was

droxyl acid complex� dissolves

as easy as applying this all-in-one face-

dead skin cells that dull your

mask. Looking and feeling fresher has

complexion, leaving you with

never been so simple and in a three step

a brighter and fresher looking reflection. In addition, this concentrated gel foaming cleanser contains

process. To instantly cool, soothe and refresh your skin all the while removing impurities, excess oil and the stress that comes along

lime, lemon, rosemary, cedar, spearmint and

with these facial woes, simply smooth a thin layer

vetiver essential oils (to name a few) which

onto pat dried skin, allow 5-10 minutes to allow the

not only help remove impurities, clearing out

ingredients - which come from the foothills of Mount

your pores, but also soothe irritated skin; a

Kenya - to work their magic, and rinse away. ($15.50;

necessary step for the pre- and post-shave

www.thebodyshop-usa.com)

ritual. Not to mention, the blend of these very fragrant oils helps start your day off on the right note. ($26; shop.ursamajormen.com)

Recommended for: those men whose stressful life has them looking drab, and need an intense refresher that immediately energizes your face. Also recom-

Recommended for: men who want an intense clean

mended for those who are looking to support efforts

without having to strip away layers of skin or essential

to preserve our world's natural biodiversity. The Body

oils while in the process. 99.5% natural and 51% or-

Shop does just that, and is proud to support trade

ganic, this face wash is not only good for your face, but

with Kenya Organic Oil Farmers Association, which

is good for the planet. How can anyone say no to that?

encourage sustainable and organic farming methods.

25

GROOMING

July, 2013

Shave: Kiehl's Lite

Hair: Bumble and

musk" fragrance, the reformulation has top

Flite Shave Cream

Bumble SumoTech

notes of lavender, sage and bergamot. The

Formulated with camphor, menthol and pep-

Best described as the love child of a hair wax,

middle notes consist of iris, amber and cacao

permint to provide your skin a cooling ef-

paste and hair crème, this moulding compound

with base notes of patchouli and leather. This

fect, and lavender essential oil to help sooth

is the perfect concoction needed to tame the

scent is a layered experience that embodies

inflamed or irritated skin, lite flite shave

messiest of shags to the unruliest coiffures,

the complexity of today's modern gentle-

cream helps make the most inconvenient

and anything in between. With ingredients like

man. With a longevity that is known to last

and painful part of getting ready in the morn-

glycerin, lanolin wax, and castor oil, SumoTech

for hours, this fragrance will definitely make

ing, a process we may actually enjoy. Meant

is sure to leave your hair conditioned, moistur-

a memorable impression seducing those

to be used with a shave brush, Kiehl's Lite

ized and full of body and shine. ($27; Sephora)

who cross your path. When selecting this fragrance, please note that the bottle with a

Flite allows you to achieve a close and comfortable shave leaving you looking sleek, hy-

Recommended for: anyone who has a bird’s

black straw is the reformulated version dis-

drated and ready to take on the world. ($16;

nest on their head in the need of some tam-

cussed, and the bottle with a silver straw is

www.kiehls.com)

ing. Works wonders on toupees too!

the original. ($60-$80; Sephora)

Recommended for: those of us who want

Scent: Dior Homme Cologne

Recommended for: the modern gentlemen

a close and comfortable shave, without the

for Men By Christian Dior

who's in search of a fragrance with a perfect

visible evidence on our face of the war fought

A lighter and subtler version of Dior Homme

blend of floral and musk to compliment his

that morning between skin and razor.

Intense, Dior Homme is a reformulation

refined yet masculine nature. Men, haven't

of the original, which was released back in

you heard that patchouli and lavender are the

2005. Perfectly described as a "woody floral

new black?

www.thecitymagazineelp.com

By JosH sanCHEz

W

ith summer comes the occasional pool party

ting them wet. The special secret compartment allows you

invite. Whether it’s just you or the whole fam-

to “stash” your necessities in a tight waterproof compart-

ily, there is always something you forget or

ment, without having to worry about people knowing they’re

wish you had. Packing a bag for the day can sometimes

even there.

be a job on it’s own, making sure you have everything you need “just in-case”. Pool parties are a great fun time; relaxation, good company, cool beverages, tasty food,

A Ball Like No Other waboba pro Ball ($7.99-$9.99)

and splashing around without a worry or care, so

Surf, extreme, or pro, this ball will have guests of all ages

you definitely want to attend. Here are some

entertained for hours playing different games. This super-

things you might want to consider purchasing

buoyant ball actually bounces on the surface of the water. All

for your next pool party, trip, or even beach

the way from Sweden, the design of this ball was to create

vacation.

the first “ball that bounces on water” and from overseas to your pool, it will really create a splash.

Sandals to Keep Your Things In

28

reef stash sandals ($30)

Sunglasses That Open Bottles

Reef Stash Sandals are a great trick to

william painter wayfarer titanium sunglasses ($145)

having your card, I.D., cash, or key on you

Made from titanium and scratch resistant coating, these

without being afraid of losing them or get-

sunglasses are the strongest and most convenient for a pool

www.thecitymagazineelp.com

Complete Event Solutions.

party, equipped with bottle openers

device. Functional and easy to use, you can enjoy being in the pool

built into the arms of the glasses. Never scrounge for a bot-

or Jacuzzi and have great clear

tle opener as long as these

sound of your summertime

bad boys are on your head.

pool favorites.

Best of all, they look good The Perfect Pool Par-

too; the classic style is per-

ty Beer Pong Table

fect for virtually anybody.

BACKDROPS CUSTOM DESIGN BOOTHS REGISTRATION BOOTHS ENTRANCE ARCHWAYS

SIGNAGE DISPLAYS LOUNGE FURNITURE LIGHTING & SOUND

FOR CORPORATE & SOCIAL EVENTS

tiki guy floating Beer pong The Perfect Frozen Drink machine

table ($60-$99) Available in black or tan, and in 6-cup or 10-

margaritaville frozen drink maker (start-

cup, this floating beer pong table is one of the

ing at $199)

best out there. No need to inflate, it’s made

If you want to be the host that really impress-

of durable foam, that provides great bounce.

es your guests, then you should invest in a

It has holes for extras or empties, and even

Margaritaville Frozen Drink Maker. There are

holders for your balls. Get the party started

a wide variety of different versions for every

with the number one adult game, beer pong.

beverage need you have. These machines

And when you’re not using it the tiki head

are made to be easy to use, just add ice and

isn’t an eyesore.

the margarita ingredients to the designated compartments. There is nothing better than

The Night Time Party Light

enjoying a frozen drink, poolside in the sum-

game 3555 aquaglow underwater light

mer sun.

show ($16)

Customized Design Full Service Event Rentals

This inexpensive contraption can really be A Speaker That Floats

the talk of the party. Create a light show in

audio unlimited poolpod 900 mhz wire-

your pool by just turning it on and dropping

less floating waterproof speaker ($100)

it in. A dance party in your pool is the perfect

Compatible with nearly any smart phone or

thing to keep the party going into the night.

mp3 player, you can play the music you so

Depending on the size of the pool, you may

desperately want to hear from inside the

need more than one. A disco party in your

pool, with a reach of up to 150 feet from your

pool, now that’s groovy!

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Delivery & Set Up included

11450 JAMES WATT SUITE B-8 EL PASO,TX. 79936 info@exhibitllc.com

PH. 915.694.3163

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| By JosH sanCHEz |

S

ummer time is here, and with it comes pool parties, cookouts, backyard parties, and other soirĂŠes. The look for July is filled with charisma and a bit of vintage flair. Color for summer is big, keep them vibrant, even in a swimsuit, do not be afraid to stand out. Florals have gotten a makeover, whether in prints, textures, or appliquĂŠ, they are not what your grandma used to wear. Accessories are fun to add to an outfit, go for a standout pair of earrings to compliment your ensemble. When shopping our local boutiques and stores, you will find pieces with inspiration from the 50's to the 80's. Vintage does not mean old; it means timeless. The right shade of lipstick really makes a look complete, take your time and figure out the best lip you can rock. Make summertime hot in your wardrobe, to match the temperature outdoors.

Special thanks to the private residence used as the location for hosting The City Magazine's crew for our Summer Splash fashion shoot.

Model (left): KELLY TOMLINSON (Wilhelmina Bazaar Model) Model (right): LORENA TAVERA Photographer: DAV ANMED Stylist: YUBIA FIERRO Creative Director: JOSH SANCHEZ Hair: DAVID PULIDO at Hunter Quartermane Salon Make Up: CLAUDIA CASTILLO 30

www.thecitymagazineelp.com

Swimsuit (left): KARLA COLLETO Swimsuit (right): BADGLEY MISCHKA Jewelry: MIGUEL ASES

www.thecitymagazineelp.com

31

Top: WHISH Cami: BELLA LUXX Jewelry: FARRAH Jeans: 7 FOR ALL MANKIND

32

Dress: POTTER'S POT Jewelry: LUKA 7 Clutch: LUKA 7

33

34

Dress: VAVA VOOM Jewelry: TREND SOCIETY Hat: TREND SOCIETY

Top & Short: MISS FINCH Jewelry: RUBY LOLA Clutch: SANTI

36

Dress: JUICY COUTURE Sunglasses: DOLCE & GABBANA Jewelry: JUICY COUTURE Clutch: TED BAKER Shoes: TED BAKER 37

Top: ARK & CO Shorts: ARK & CO Jewelry: BOTTICELLI

38

SUMMER SPLASH

Swimsuit: ELLA BLU Head Band: DEEPA GURNANI Bracelets: CRUZAR

39

By: ViC Poulos

a

s the global economy continues to slowly improve, sales of bubbly wine continue to increase. Fizzy

wine has also seen a boost from sommeliers and drinkers who are letting go of tradition and embracing bubbly wine as not just a celebration drink, but as a solid appetizer and wine that can actually pair with food.

But as you skim the bubbly on a wine list, you'll likely find that it's not all just Champagne – the safest choice. So what are these other bubbly wines and how are they different from one another?

The short answer is that it really all depends on where the grapes come from. To be called Champagne, the wine must be from the Champagne region in northern France.

Champagne style wines, if made in the Unit40

ed States, must be labeled as sparkling wine.

The similar kind of wine in Italy is called prosecco, and in Spain, cava.

Champagne is made from just three grapes in France: Chardonnay, Pinot Noir and sometimes Pinot Meunier. Champagne made from a blend of non-specific vintages is called “NV” or "Non-Vintage". Champagne made only from a specific year is typically the best and is called “Vintage”.

Champagne must undergo a second fermentation in the bottle it's being sold in. This process is called the method champenoise in France. In the United States it's called the Champagne Method.

There are several distinct styles of Champagne and sparkling wine. Brut, the “standard” for each Champagne house, is a barely sweet wine. Brut Extra, is a wine that has little to no residual sugar. These wines are bitter in youth but age very well. Extra Dry, refers to a bubbly that is distinctly sweet. Doux is a sweet, dessert style sparkling wine.

What are the alternatives to the Champagne Method? There's carbonation – think soda pop. There is also a method known as Charmat, or the tank method, where the second fermentation takes place not in the bottle but in large tanks, a sort of mass-produced second fermentation. www.thecitymagazineelp.com

Carpene in Italy using the ‘metodo tradizionale’. However, by 1934, Carpene’s grandson Etile determined that the Charmat method was the one best suited for enhancing Because most wines made in the Charmat

the characteristic aromas and elegance of

method are bottled as soon as the second

Prosecco, Asti, and Moscato d’Asti. These

fermentation is over, autolysis con-

wines feature the forward, fruity, at times

tributes less to the taste profile of

grapey characteristics of these grapes. They

these wines. It is more suited to

are simpler and easier going. If you've ever

a fresher, fruitier style of wine.

had a Bellini, you've had some Prosecco.

Hence, prosecco, which is often considered a less

Champagne from France typically offers a

expensive substitute for

finer wine than its Italian neighbors to the

Champagne.

south due to a colder climate, cooler cellars and the limestone soil that dominates

Made from the gra-

the region.

pe of the same name, prosecco was initially vi-

Cava is Spain's version of sparkling wine, most often produced in Catalonia and using

nified in 1860

the traditional method champenoise like

by Antonio

the others. Cava can be white, like most

July, 2013

sparkling wines, or Rose (pink). The most common varietals used to make cava are the macabeu, parellada and xarello grapes.

This is the chance for local dental professionals to feature their services and stories with El Paso. Research shows that readers may use this type of publication as a serious reference guide when deciding where to take their business.

Again, this targeted publication will give your practice high visibility to our readers. Our team of dedicated sales representatives is looking forward to working with you to create a custom advertisement that meets your needs.

Contact The City today!

Co

Finally, one of the most frequently asked questions must be addressed – how do the bubbles get in there?

Capturing the sparkle involves adding a solution of yeast and sugar, known as liqueur de triage, to an already fermented base wine.

By doing this in a closed container (the bottle itself) the CO2, which is formed by the second fermentation, is trapped in that container and the gas becomes dissolved in the liquid.

These

dissolved

CO2

molecules

must

encounter “friction” to form a bubble. The

--------------------------------

ingredient that provides the friction is, believe

Office: (915) 500-5730 Fax: (915) 500-5732 661 S Mesa Hills Ste. 204 El Paso, Texas 79912

there's no need to scratch the bottom of

it or not, microscopic particles of dust. So your champagne glasses to keep the bubbles coming, as many people believe!

Now that you understand “champagne” – give it try with various foods. Oysters and shell fish for example. Even lighter crème desserts pair well with champagne or sparkling wine. On a hot summer day you will find me with a bottle of Zin Valle Rising Star Sparkling wine – with potato chips and dips! Nothing better!

Salud! www.thecitymagazineelp.com

43

nal Blue o i t be a N r July

nth Mo

is

ry

| By Kim North |

Recipes Courtesy of: www.foodnetwork.com

FOOD

July, 2013

“..you ought to have seen how it looked in the rain, the fruit mixed with water in layers of leaves, like two kinds of jewels, a vision for thieves.”

An excerpt from the poem “Blueberries”

by Robert Frost

R

ich in history and in antioxidants,

healthy for you, full of antioxidants and

blueberries have long been a well-

low in calories. But did you know that they

loved staple in the American diet. The

are also good for eyesight, digestion, brain

“star” shape on the top of a blueberry, left

health, and heart disease prevention? They

by the blossom, lead Native Americans to

can help repair muscles after strenuous ex-

refer to them as “star berries”. When oth-

ercise, reducing post-exercise injuries, and

er food sources were scarce, there were

they are a great source of fiber.

always blueberries. Used as a diet staple through the Civil War, blueberries have also

When choosing fresh blueberries look for

been utilized in other non-traditional ways

them to be firm and full of good, consist-

such as making dye and paint.

ent color. Avoid packages with soft looking berries that are dull in color. Blueberries are

Blueberries are most commonly grown in

covered in a whitish, waxy protective coat-

the central and eastern part of the United

ing known as the “bloom.” Avoid washing

States. Maine is the blueberry production

them until you are ready to use them, as

capital of the country with Michigan follow-

the longer they have the protective bloom

ing close behind. There are, however, over

on the fresher they will be.

30 different species of blueberries grown also throughout parts of the Pacific North-

So go on, pop them in your mouth or try

west and Canada.

them in one of these delicious recipes and enjoy one of Mother Nature’s sweetest

We have all heard that blueberries are

gifts.

Blueberry-Limoncello Cooler Ingredients: 1 (750-ml) bottle limoncello liqueur, chilled 1 cup sparkling water, chilled 1 cup fresh or frozen blueberries *see Cook’s Note 5 fresh mint sprigs, lightly crushed, plus extra for garnish Crushed ice

Directions In a pitcher, combine the limoncello, sparkling water, blueberries, and mint sprigs.

Fill highball glasses halfway with crushed ice. Pour about 1/2 cup of the limoncello mixture over the ice in each glass.

Garnish with mint sprigs and serve.

Serves: 4-6

Fruit Pizza Ingredients: Pizza Dough: 1 package store bought sugar cookie dough Toppings: 8 ounces softened cream cheese 1-cup confectioners’ sugar 1 large peach, sliced 1 large green apple, sliced 1 large orange, sectioned 1/2 pint fresh strawberries, sliced 6 ounces fresh blueberries 6 ounces fresh raspberries 1/2 cup white chocolate chips, melted 1/2 cup chocolate syrup Directions Preheat oven to 350 degrees F. Flatten cookie dough onto a 6-inch pizza pan. Bake until firm to touch, about 11 to 15 minutes. Cool. In a medium bowl, blend cream cheese and sugar. Spread the baked cookie with the cream cheese mixture and decorate with sliced fruit. In a small bowl, combine melted white chocolate with chocolate syrup. Top the pizza with remaining berries and chocolate mixture.

Slice and serve immediately.

Prep Time: 30 minutes Cook Time: 15 minutes Serves: 8

*Cook’s Note: If using frozen blueberries, add them to the pitcher just before serving.

www.thecitymagazineelp.com

45

Spicy Blueberry Pork Tenderloin

Ingredients: 2 cups blueberry preserves 1/4-teaspoon chipotle powder 1/2 orange, zested and juiced 3 tablespoons whole-grain mustard, divided Kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper 1 pork tenderloin (roughly 1 1/2 pounds) Directions In a medium saucepan over high heat, combine the blueberry preserves, chipotle powder, orange zest and juice and 2 tablespoons of the mustard. Season with salt and pepper, to taste. Reduce the heat and to a simmer, stirring occasionally, until berries begin to burst and at a thick sauce consistency, about 10 to 15 minutes. Pour into a serving bowl and set aside. Preheat the broiler.

broil approximately 5 to 6 inches from the heat source. Turn the meat about every 3 to 5 minutes, cooking until an instant-read thermometer registers 145 degrees F, about 15 to 20 minutes. Set aside on a cutting board and allow to rest about 5 minutes, tented with foil.

Rub the tenderloin with the remaining 1-tablespoon of the mustard and season on all sides with salt and pepper. Put the pork on a foil-lined sheet tray on a wire rack and

Prep Time: 15 minutes Inactive Time: 5 minutes Cook Time: 35 minutes Serves: 4

Slice the pork and transfer it to a serving platter. Serve with the blueberry sauce.

Almond Blueberry Cookies Ingredients: 2 cups all-purpose flour 2 teaspoons baking powder 1/2-teaspoon salt 1 stick (1/2 cup) unsalted butter 1-cup sugar 1 egg yolk 1/4 to 1/3 cup whole milk 1 teaspoon almond extract 2 teaspoons lemon zest, about 1 lemon 1/2 cup chopped almonds, toasted 1 cup frozen blueberries, thawed and drained Directions In a medium bowl, combine flour, baking powder, and salt.

In another medium bowl, cream together the butter and sugar using a hand mixer.

Add egg and beat to incorporate. Add milk, almond extract, and lemon zest.

Stir the dry ingredients into the wet ingredients. Fold in the almonds, then the blueberries. Chill the dough in the refrigerator for 30 minutes.

Preheat the oven to 375 degrees F. Using two small spoons, dollop mix onto cookie sheets. Bake until golden brown around the edges, about 15 minutes.

Cool the cookies on a wire rack. Save in a storage container to take to the picnic.

Prep Time: 20 minutes Inactive Prep Time: 30 minutes Cook Time: 15 minutes Makes: about 30 cookies

48

Walks Along the Levee Road | By ADAIR MARGO |

If I remember correctly, it was Soren Kierkegaard who said that if he had to choose one solution for all the world’s ills, it would be silence.

L

ucky for me, I’m married to a man who starts each day that way, closing the door of his study to read his Bible and pray. The habit steadies him in dealing with

the pressures of business, politics and active community life.

When a crisis comes, he always has an inner calm.

Photograph by: KIM NORTH 49

WA L K S A L O N G T H E L E V E E R O A D

Walks along the levee road in the morning or evening light of

July, 2013

horse. “Water is life and the gift of Allah,” he said.

El Paso’s Upper Valley are my quiet times. Others sometimes pass by and we’ll nod or speak briefly, exchanging words about

When I was young, my father encouraged me to write poems –

the weather, a loose dog, the birth of lambs in the field behind

something I’ve returned to at this stage of my life. The thought

the Montessori School, or the water finally filling the irrigation

of composing one sharpens my powers of observation as I

canal. One morning an Iranian neighbor sat in a lawn chair in

think how best to describe the things I see when I walk. Once I

black rubber boots as the precious per acre foot allotment cov-

return home and write them down on paper, I always remember

ered his land where he keeps a peacock, chickens and a paint

the experience.

AN OPEN FIELD

A CLAN OF GOATS

An open field along my walk is tilleda shallow grave of narrow furrows and clumps of earth in dusty, winding waves.

A clan of goats lives in a yard I pass by every day as I walk along the levee road toward the Mount of Cristo Rey. Their coats are white and silky, their heads a caramel brown, the kids exhale a prolonged baaaaa whenever I’m around.

Some tractor tracks are fresh but dry and soon will disappear as cold still air is stirred by wind, a sign that spring is near.

I’ll watch the field as months pass and when sprigs of green appear, I’ll think back on these tractor tracks Rememb’ring a Master’s care.

TOM LEA. "UNTO THE HILLS" 1971 Oil on canvas, 32 x 54 | Rick and Ginger Francis, El Paso.

50

Billy a stocky patriarch with horns a backward curve, nannies with soft tapered heads and utters full to nurse.

Their colored variations are a wonder to behold, each one different than the other yet the same within the fold.

TOM LEA. "ACEQUIA MADRE," illustration from Forty Years at El Paso 1858-1898

by W. W. Mills (Page. 4) 1962 | Pen and Ink, page size 9x6

FOUR HORSES GRAZE ON GOLDEN GRASS Four horses graze on golden grass a quiet day that will peacefully pass a chestnut, a dun, a bay and a black with heads stretched down to the earth.

A Shetland pony with lightening mark on his shoulder darts out to the side of the dark bay horse - his teeth bared, a bearded land shark determined to disturb a calm world.

The bay squealing, galloping to escape the abuse as the pony forced circles it seemed of no use bare teeth on neck, a mean spirit was loose and the bay horse squealed over again.

The lithe young chestnut, slender and tall, responded to his pen mate’s desperate callgalloping closer and closer he entered the brawl, nudging the pony away from his friend.

Turning their rumps towards the pony real quick and without hesitation they gave a swift kick four hoofs on grey coat, it was a good lickrestoring peace to the pasture again.

Now when I walk by the golden field where the horses are grazing with their strong-muscled builds, the chestnut need no longer act as a shield with the pony’s head stretched down to the earth.

Tom Lea. Argentine Stud, inscribed “To Sarah with love” | 1967 Brush and ink with watercolor, 16 ½ x 18 ¼ Adair and Dee Margo, El Paso. Gift of the artist.

51

NEW TO THE ZOO

Spring Births Make for an Exciting Summer | By: ERIN COULEHAN |

School’s out, the weather’s heating up to almost unbearable temperatures and the children are growing restless. Over at the El Paso Zoo, the dedicated staff has their hands (paws, hooves and wings) full after the arrival of new generations of baby animals this spring.

O

n April 26, twin pygmy slow

breeding guidelines for the tiny critters.

lorises were welcomed. A na-

A conditioning program began with the moth-

tive of Vietnam, Laos, Cambo-

er, Kim Lee, who was taught to ex-

dia and parts of China, the pyg-

pose her abdomen to caretak-

my slow loris appears in a variety of habitats,

ers for ultrasounds prior to

which include tropical, evergreen and rain

and during pregnancy.

forests.

Now at six weeks old, The twins born at the El Paso Zoo, who have

the twins, Kim Lee

yet to be named, weighed in at 25 and 27

and father Steven Ty-

grams - tiny!

ler (not that animal) are happily enjoy-

“They’re pretty much the cutest thing ever,”

ing

says Luke Krider, the family’s caretaker.

together inside the

their

summer

El Paso Zoo’s Asia exAs part of the Association of Zoos and Aquar-

hibit.

ium’s Species Survival Plan, whose mission

52

is to cooperatively manage threatened or

Krider says the twins’ per-

endangered species, Krider and the rest of

sonalities are beginning to

the team at the El Paso Zoo followed specific

emerge: they’re becoming

Twin babies together before well baby exam on May 9. (l-r) female, Male Photo Photo by: Carrie Trudeau/El Paso Zoo

July 2013

playful, adventurous and less dependent on their mother.

The twins have even gained some fame thus far in their short lives. The twins were featured on Perez Hilton’s website on June 6 with a caption reading: “El Paso Zoo better crack the bubbly!

It’s time to celebrate! The zoo just had its first ever Pygmy Slow lorises born!

Want to know the best part??? They’re TWINS! That’s double the cuteness!! The little babies are a boy and girl and they’re so insanely tiny and cute we can’t handle it. They could both fit in the palm of your hand!”

The El Paso Zoo hopes the next stop for the twins is The Today Show.

The pygmy slow loris family is currently on exhibition at the El Paso Zoo.

Zoo staff weighs female baby during well baby exam on May 9. Baby weighed in at 44.4 grams. Photo by Carrie Trudeau/El Paso Zoo

53

Male baby holds on to stethoscope while Zoo Veterinarian listens to his heart rate and rhythm during exam on May 9.

Photo by Carrie Trudeau/El Paso Zoo

1

2

3

4

Over at the El Paso Zoo, the dedicated staff has their hands (paws, hooves and wings) full after the arrival of new generations of baby animals this spring.

5

1

Four day old baby explores new home. Photo by: Paul Dumond/El Paso Zoo Photo taken on April 30

2

El Paso Zoo Veterinarian Victoria Milne holds male pygmy slow loris during well baby exam on May 9. Photo by: Carrie Trudeau/El Paso Zoo

3

Four day old baby begins to climb and explore new exhibit. Photo by: Paul Dumond/El Paso Zoo Photo taken on April 30

4

El Paso Zoo Veterinarian Victoria Milne determines gender of male baby during exam on May 9. Baby weighed in at 46.6 grams. Photo by Carrie Trudeau/El Paso Zoo

5

Four day old male baby leans over basket as he is weighed on April 30.

Photo by: Paul Dumond/El Paso Zoo

July 2013

VIVA! EL PASO By: JOHN DEL ROSARIO Photographed by: MANNY RAMOS

V

iva! El Paso's

Like the action within the

36-year history

musical, Viva! has surely

emulates the

seen its share of ups and

400-year history that

downs - financially, legal-

the show encompasses:

ly and creatively.

based on history and culture, constantly evolving and perpetuated by tradition and family.

First premiering in 1978, Viva! was originally commissioned by the City of El Paso to re-

El Paso's premiere theatrical production done

place Paseo Del Norte, a drama written and

every summer at the McKelligon Canyon Am-

produced to inaugurate the opening of the

phitheatre, ensconced in the majestic Frank-

McKelligon Canyon Amphitheatre in 1976.

lin Mountains, has told the story of El Paso's

It was then directed and devised by Hector

rich history through song and dance from the

Serrano starting as a variety show telling

days of settlement of once nomadic Native

the story of El Paso through drama, song

Americans, to the arrival of the Spanish, to

and dance.

the development of the Mexican, culture to the "wild west" days of brothels, saloons and

Through the years, the script evolved, adding,

gun fights in the streets.

removing and tweaking dance numbers and storylines. "Although it had little to do with El

Directed by Jaime Barba, the 36th season of

Paso, they used to do this Aztec scene where

Viva! kicked off last month. "As far as arts or-

they sacrificed a virgin," Barba said, recalling

ganizations go, to be in our 36th season is an

the original production having seen it as a

accomplishment," Barba said.

young boy.

57

the show was in, they arrived in the spring of

numerous acting roles in El Paso Playhouse

2004 doing an inventory of what was needed

productions.

in terms of resources and then started the In 1989, a fire at the amphitheatre destroyed

process of returning to the original script,

"It is El Paso's top-notch theatrical produc-

most of the show's sets and props. Barba,

with some notable adjustments for the sake

tion," Saucedo said. "You have the best ac-

who had joined the cast that year, recalled

of continuity.

tors, singers and dancers in the city."

they were going to get everything ready in

A lecturer in the Theatre Arts Department at

Saucedo isn't kidding. A grueling one-day

time for that season," he said. "The city rallied

the University of Texas at El Paso, Barba re-

casting call in April that went from nine in

and got some funding for it and made all new

called seeing the show when it first started,

the morning to three in the afternoon tested

costumes and sets that year."

his cousin and brother both being members

the cream of the city's crop in dancing, act-

of the cast before him. "I tell my students

ing and singing. The chosen few then go on

When Serrano retired from the show in 2002,

that when you make a connection with what

to a demanding five-to-seven-day-a-week re-

an outsider to the region, Craig Wells, took

you're watching, you'll remember it forever,"

hearsal schedule for the six weeks leading up

over making some pretty drastic changes to

he said. "I still remember a lot things from

to the show.

the script, as a whole. "He changed the show

when I first saw it 30 years ago being in the

completely," Barba remembered. "It became

audience, and now being on this end, it's full

"We've all grown up with it," she said "Art-

more of a history lesson. All of the pageantry,

circle. I'm trying to instill those memories

ists in this field, we work toward working in

color and fun of Viva! wasn't there."

into these new people."

something like Viva! El Paso. Once you've

the devastation. "There was a question of if

worked in Viva, you've hit a certain standard.

Attendance dropped from about 52,000 peo-

The new people of every season's cast have

ple in 2002 to 38,000 people in 2003.

been many. Of this year's 48-person cast,

It's something to be very proud of."

Barba estimated that 90% of them are new.

"I think there's a misconception that the tal-

Enter, Barba and member of the original cast,

Among them is Eurydice Saucedo, El Paso

ent in El Paso is very limited," Barba said. "I'm

Beth leffler. After noticing the trouble that

theatre veteran, whose credentials include

a firm believer that just because we're from

58

www.thecitymagazineelp.com

viva ! el paso El Paso doesn't mean that we don't know what we're doing. I think a Broadway performer would have a hard time doing what these kids do."

Veritably, it is El Paso's Broadway, complete with mixed reviews, publicized scandal and, most importantly, the awe-inspiring majesty that drives future performers to want to pursue the same glory.

"I remember seeing it as a child and thinking, 'I want to be in that one day,'" Barba recalled.

"If you ask any of these kids right now, they'll say the same thing."

Despite the many adjustments to the script that have been made in the show's 36 years, one storytelling device has remained constant: a tree. The species of the tree unknown (though some in the cast have surmised it being a Mesquite or Cottonwood tree), it is simply known as the "family tree" in the current version of the show.

It is first planted by the Native Americans who settled in the land and is constantly made reference to throughout the show's eras: It first signifies a need to establish a sense of home, then is the scene for multiple encounters of love, it’s then the platform for the city's first print media and finally serves as the classroom for a granddaughter's lesson in heritage from her abuelo.

It anchors the story to the region and, as you'll see if you attend a performance, it also unites each of the characters' individual stories.

"Whenever you come and see Viva! El Paso, you identify with one of the characters in the show or you know someone in your family who resembles a character," said Jaime Carrasco, former member of the cast who joined alongside Barba in 1989 and current choreographer of certain numbers in the musical. "I think it's a part of each and everyone's story."

Just like the tree. www.thecitymagazineelp.com

July, 2013

60

www.thecitymagazineelp.com

July 2013

T he C E O M r . B ob W ingo

Sometime in El Paso’s fairly recent past, when the

garment industry dominated much of El Paso’s economy,

with companies like Farah manufacturing and selling

men’s apparel in large numbers, a young man was starting

out selling men’s clothing at another locally owned garment company, Billy The Kid.

T

hat young man was honing a work ethic and drive that would serve him well over the next several decades as he shifted industries and began a truly remarkable and productive run as a

partner and eventual head of one of El Paso’s, and the country’s, most dynamic and successful companies.

That young man is, of course, Mr. Robert V. Wingo, the CEO of Sanders/Wingo, and more often than not simply referred to as Bob. I had the pleasure of sitting down with him and discussing several subjects as part of our series on local Chief Executives. As anyone who knows him would expect, he was gracious and candid and shared with me some of his personal story, as well as sharing some insight into the current state of our community and of his industry.

Much of Bob’s history has already been chronicled by others, but it is worth repeating. The son of an Army air-defense soldier, Bob’s family came to El Paso when he was in middle school. Choosing to remain in El Paso, he graduated from Bel Air, was drafted and sent to Vietnam like so many of the young men of his generation, and then returned home and enrolled at UTEP, where he would ultimately graduate from with a bachelor’s degree in marketing. In addition to providing him with a foundation in the industry that he

| By MICHAEL GRAHAM |

would later join, UTEP is where Bob met his wife Paulette, who

holds a Bachelor’s and Master’s degree in Education from UTEP, and who is an award winning author and education advocate.

After graduating from UTEP, Bob began his career at Billy The Kid apparel, working in customer service, and working his way up the company structure. As the company grew, Bob asked for an opportunity to take

www.thecitymagazineelp.com

61

July, 2013 on one of the newly created advertising positions, and was put into the role of advertising manager first, then ultimately vice president of advertising. It was during these years that Bob first worked with a local advertising agency, Sanders Advertising, founded in 1958

by Mr. David E. Sanders.

As he developed a working relationship with Sanders, David asked him about moving from Billy the Kid to the “agency” side. As Bob de-

scribed it to me, he was hesitant, as the size and governance and scale of the companies was very different. Ultimately, Billy the Kid was sold, and rather than relocate with many of the other employees, Bob and Paulette decided to remain in El Paso. I asked him about El Paso, and his experiences and views of the city, and he was steadfast in his affection for El Paso. “I absolutely love El Paso,” Bob told me. “It has not been a recent development; it has been a long term relationship.”

Bob joined Sanders in 1984, and from that point forward, the rest is history, at least from a business standpoint.

Sanders/Wingo is

now a nationally known and recognized leader in the advertising field, and Bob’s leadership is a large part of that success. The company now has primary offices in El Paso and Austin, as well as space in New York. In addition to Sanders/Wingo, Bob is also involved with SWK partners, a company focused on the evolving edge of media and advertising and its distribution.

I wanted to learn more about his leadership style and methods, and after our conversation it was clear that perhaps, above all else, Bob values relationships. He spoke about his relationships with other community and civic leaders, about the business relationships the company has developed over the years, and www.thecitymagazineelp.com

in particular, about the relationships within

"I really focus on putting

downtown in particular, Bob remarked that he

and making sure that they are

the city, in that there is a consistent, positive,

myself in our employee’s shoes,

could not remember a more exciting time in

taken care of."

deliberate movement focused on improving

are providing the same level of benefits as

He is, quite simply, incredibly passionate

tion of that end goal particularly insightful: “I

the larger companies. I really focus on putting

about life, but particularly about our commu-

see significant work and effort in changing

myself in our employee’s shoes, and making

nity. He devotes a considerable amount of

the perception of El Paso, not just externally,

sure that they are taken care of.”

time and effort and energy towards remain-

but internally as well.”

the company. “I want to provide our employees with a great place to work. I want to make sure they have a fair wage and great benefits.

I try to ensure that as a small company we

El Paso, on many levels. I found his descrip-

ing engaged and involved with many aspects This sentiment was echoed by Ellen Ordaz,

of our community. He sits on many boards

In keeping with that focus, Bob spent several

the Senior Vice President and Executive Me-

and is active in many civic organizations, far

years on the Texas State Economic Develop-

dia Director in the El Paso Office. “He makes

too many of each to list. As Ellen remarked

ment Board, a time and an experience that

a very conscious effort to let each member

to me, Bob is that rare individual that gets

he values considerably. “That was probably

of the team contribute, and sincerely takes

involved in the community “simply because

the most educational and insightful group

those opinions and ideas into account”

he wants to see it improve.” He does not

I have been a part of. I was able to interact

do it for any type of personal reward or gain.

with the Governor’s Office, and the Secretary

The other recurring theme that develops

When I asked him about the current state of

of State’s office, on a regular basis, and was

when learning about Mr. Wingo is passion.

the city, and the growth and development of

able to see what concerns they had at a state

www.thecitymagazineelp.com

63

T H E C EO, M R . B O B W I N G O

July, 2013

level, and learn how Austin and the rest of the State sees El Paso. In order for us to be effective civic leaders and help El Paso grow, we need to have a group of committed members of the business community engaging with Austin on a regular basis” Of particular interest to me was how Bob viewed and felt about having his daughter Leslie as part of the team at Sanders/Wingo, as I too am part of a family company and understand some of the unique and often very challenging situations that arise when a son or daughter is also an employee, and when mom or dad is also the boss. Bob and Paulette are parents to two very accomplished young

ladies; Shana is a physician in the Phoenix area, and Leslie is now one of the Senior Vice Presidents in Sanders/Wingo’s Austin office. I asked him how leslie’s decision to join the business came about, and whether it was part of a long term plan. “It was definitely not a plan. It was simply a decision she made and we were happy to have her. I had her work with others as she learned our industry, and it has been very productive.

She was the first person

that jumped at moving to Austin and helping that location grow. I am blessed to have two

has allowed him to slow down his pace of life

almost every day, whether it is a quick phone

wonderful children, and doubly blessed that

just a bit; just enough to enjoy the success and

call, or a face time chat, etc. We find a way to

one of them chose to follow me into the busi-

the experiences of the moment.

chat.” In many ways, that comment sums up Bob, as an individual, as a leader, and as a pas-

ness.” I asked him if he had seen any changes in her, or in him, since they had begun work-

When I had the chance to talk to Leslie about

sionate and active member of our community.

ing together, and in a very candid moment,

working with her dad, she summed up their

He finds a way to make it work, regardless of

Bob remarked to me that he was “not as hard

working relationship and their personal rela-

how challenging the situation may be.

charging today as I used to be.” When he ex-

tionship in a very flattering and insightful way.

panded on that comment, I took him to mean

“Work wise, I only see or talk to Bob every sev-

Bob Wingo has carved out and developed

that perhaps having a daughter on the team

eral weeks. But on a personal level, I talk to dad

a life and a business on his own terms, and

64

www.thecitymagazineelp.com

BLITZ&GLITZ A NIGHT WITH SEAN KUGLER • WOMEN’S FOOTBALL 101 HOSTED BY UTEP ATHLETICS &

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July, 2013

in the community of his choosing, for the last two decades at the helm of Sanders/ Wingo. He is passionate about El Paso, and about assisting the community in learning

to better communicate the many wonderful components and elements that we have to offer. I asked him in closing if there was any challenge he would like to see El Paso answer, or a particular goal or objective he wanted to see the city and the community achieve. He remarked “I would like to see, in the next ten years or so, a real movement towards attracting and retaining larger regional companies to El Paso. We have lost some good companies over the years, and we have an opportunity to really grow our corporate presence in that area. We can be a great home for so many companies and so many industries. We just have to focus on it and do it.�

As long as Bob is part of the process, I am sure that ten years from now, or even sooner, our landscape will look very different than it does today. The El Paso that he and Paulette’s grandchildren will experience, and will enjoy, will be much of his doing. We will indeed have a greater regional company base that provides greater opportunities for our community, and that helps foster a new period of growth and prosper-

www.thecitymagazineelp.com

ity. I am certain that then, as now, we will be thanking Bob for his commitment and passion to our community.

www.thecitymagazineelp.com

“is man's

Lights, Camera, Action

will be music to your business' ears” - D/S

VALENTIN SANDOVAL

(915) 694-8863

MULTIMEDIA-VIDEO PRODUCTION

SHOOTING-EDITING-COPY-BRANDING WWW.DEANSANDOVAL.COM

PHOTO BY: CHRIST CHAVEZ | DESIGN BY: DESIGN OLLIN

Tom Shockley

CEO El Paso Electric

One of the exciting things for me is to see the excitement for economic development and the opportunity to create new and better jobs for all of our citizens

S

ervicing a 10,000 square mile area of

asked to join the El Paso Electric Board of

the new opportunities coming our way. “One

the Rio Grande valley in West Texas, El

Directors and later left retirement to join the

of the exciting things for me is to see the

Paso Electric provides electrical utility

work force once more as the CEO of El Paso

excitement for economic development and

services including generation, transmission

Electric, jokingly saying, “I pretty much failed

the opportunity to create new and better jobs

and distribution to about 384,000 retail and

at retirement.”

for all of our citizens. This is really important for El Paso Electric as well because as the

wholesale customers. At the helm of El Paso Electric, steering the company in new and

Leading El Paso Electric’s, approximately,

city grows and prospers, our business does

exciting ways is CEO Tom Shockley.

1,000 employees, Shockley explains how

better and better. It’s an opportunity to partner

one thing he loves most about his job

with the city to see if together we can make

Born and raised in Corpus Christi, Shockley

is the commitment the employees and

really good things happen,” Shockley says.

gained his undergraduate education from

company have to their community and their

a regional college and later received his

customers. “It’s really heartwarming to see

masters from the University of Texas at Austin.

all of the different things our employees get

El Paso Electric

Throughout his career, Shockley has garnered

involved in.”

100 N. Stanton El Paso, Tx 79901

an extensive knowledge base on energy utilities by working with companies such as American

With the recent and continued growth in El

Electric Power. After retiring, Shockley was

Paso, Shockley expresses his enthusiasm for

By DANIEL BELL photograph by ROBERT CORRAL

(915) 543-5711

69 S P E C I A L A D V E R T I S I N G | 69

Keeli Jernigan

CEO and President, Trans-Expedite Inc.

"It’s incredibly rewarding to know that we are solving supply chain problems for companies of all sizes, from Fortune 100 to small businesses"

T

he Trans-Expedite brand name and reputation as “the trusted logistics company,” is growing across the United States and internationally.

Keeli Jernigan, President and CEO of Trans-Expedite, is a hands on, innovative and outstanding leader in the business community. A graduate of the University of Texas at Austin with a BBA in Marketing, Keeli has worked in all areas of the transportation industry and serviced many Fortune 500 companies.

Trans-Expedite itself was founded in 2001 when Keeli and her husband Mark Jernigan put $29,000 towards their dream of creating a full service logistics company. With both of them having years in the freight transportation industry, their combined knowledge enabled Trans-Expedite to become the first indirect air carrier in the El Paso market to meet 70

| SPECIAL ADVERTISING

Congress-mandated screening measures and qualify as a Certified Cargo Screening Facility (CCSF). Trans-Expedite specializes in servicing the time sensitive shipments of critical cargo and is also a single source solution, offering warehousing, inventory and distribution to their clients.

Over the last twelve years under Jernigan's leadership, Trans-Expedite has grown to be a global force in the freight industry, has 11 locations and brings in annual sales of approximately $50 million. With her open door policy, she is passionate about inspiring others to strive for excellence.

As the co-founder of Trans-Expedite Inc. she has received numerous awards for her savvy business skill-set, one being the '2013 Women's Business Enterprise Star' award for excellence among women's business enterprises by the Women's Business

Enterprise National Council.

When asked what makes Trans-Expedite so successful, Jernigan answered, “Key differentiators that have helped us succeed over the years are our comprehensive customer service and our continually improving business offerings such as our ISO 28000 certification in supply chain security.

Our 24/7 service is supported by a companywide culture of expertise and customer-first principles.”

KEELI JERNIGAN CEO & President Trans-Expedite Inc. Phone: (915) 779-9100 Fax: (915) 771-9179 kjernigan@trans-expediate.com www.trans-expedite.com

By MEAGAN KINLEY photograph provided by TRANS-EXPEDITE INC.

evolve Federal Credit Union A Commitment to Growth and Technology: evolve FCU's CEO Ken Walters Leads Credit Union into a New Era

O

ver the past two years this local El Paso credit union has seen a lot of changes - from a new name to embracing the wonders of technology, evolve FCU is moving fullsteam ahead thanks to its revolutionary CEO Ken Walters. While many credit unions still operate on obsolete technology, this motorcycle riding CEO looked to the future and foresaw the direction that banking was taking and steered evolve FCU into becoming one the most tech-savy credit unions in the country. Holding tight to the motto "people helping people," Walters works to ensure that through the implementation of new technologies as well as talented and knowledgeable employees, evolve FCU can offer their members state of the art services, such as the new online ePritority checking account that gives members the ability to conduct most of their financial needs from anywhere and at anytime. It has been Walters' mission to take the credit union beyond a simple financial institution and turn it into a place where

the community can receive quality financial services from an organization they can count on to be a leader in technology and customer service.

But it doesn't stop there, while the majority of his focus has been on providing members with new online and mobile banking technologies Walters also understands the importance of staying connected with not only the evolve FCU membership at large - but also with the El Paso community. During these transformational past two years, Walters has also made a major push to incorporate other technological advances that make it easier for the credit union and its members to stay in touch. Social media, email campaigns, magazines, and even a new online web series are just some of the many new techniques that Walters has implemented in order to stay connected with the community.

It is Walters' belief that in order to better serve the community you must go where they are -

By SHANON WOODRUFF photograph by DAVID GONZALEZ evolve FCU is Federally Insured by NCUA

and in today's day and age that's online.

Walters has put into action a full plan that is directed at further integrating current and future technologies as well as maintaining the credit union relationship with its members and the community. When asked about where he sees evolve heading, Walters' said, "If you are not evolving in the industry you are going to get left behind." Walters has worked hard to make sure that evolve FCU is meeting the needs of its members by fully devoting the efforts of this modern credit union in becoming a true financial institution of the twenty-first century.

KEN WALTERS, MBA, CCUE, CUCE President/CEO evolve Federal Credit Union 8820 Gazelle Drive , El Paso, Texas 79925 (915) 593-5866 info@evolvefcu.org www.evolvefcu.org 71 S P E C I A L A D V E R T I S I N G | 71

John Deslongchamps

CFI Security, Inc.

When we can secure a home or business and offer some peace of mind to our clients, nothing can compare

A

home is a place where you can go to

champs. He says that his success has come

son feeling vulnerable, violated and scared.

unwind, relax and feel safe. However,

from a rejection of failure, “If I’ve said it

When we can secure a home or business

many times there are dangers that

once, I’ve said it a thousand times; there

and offer some peace of mind to our clients,

can threaten the safeness of your home. CFI

is no safety net for a small business man.

nothing can compare.”

Security, Inc. is a homegrown El Paso based

These words have kept me motivated and

business that provides integrated design, in-

at times over aggressive because I despise

With a dedicated staff that possesses a var-

stallation and maintenance of special systems

failure.” Deslongchamps gives hard work

ied and diverse range of knowledge, year

to residential, commercial and industrial

and perseverance the credit for the success

after year CFI Security, Inc. maintains a lead-

clients, state and local governments as well as

he and his business have seen.

ing role in the design and deployment of security and life-safety systems.

the U.S. Military. CFI Security offers services such as intrusion detection systems, closed

Deslongchamps notes that the most reward-

circuit television surveillance systems, access

ing part of his career is, “the human factor”

control systems, fire detection, alarm systems

saying, “Anytime I can assist a victim of

CFI SECURITY

and much more.

crime in finding a sense of security would

1845 Northwestern, Suite B

be what I enjoy the most. Unfortunately, in

El Paso, Tx 79912

Leading the effort to make homes and

my industry, we tend to be called on after a

www.CFI-EP.com

businesses more secure is John Deslong-

crime has been committed. This leaves a per-

72

| SPECIAL ADVERTISING

By DANIEL BELL photograph by ROBERT CORRAL

Danny Gerard

CEO of The Liquor Company

"I love El Paso and this city was the right fit for a company like The Liquor Company" “The Liquor Company is proud to have

“I love El Paso and this city was the right fit

“We have also put the steps in motion to

started here in El Paso. Because of the great

for a company like The Liquor Company. The

franchise The Liquor Company brand and

people of this city, our business is strong

Liquor Company is the only liquor store in El

are looking at growing outside of El Paso

and growing. I am both excited for what the

Paso that not only has wine and liquor, but

and Texas to other license-friendly states.

future has to offer and very humbled to be

also focuses on the largest selection of both

Being the CEO of such an amazing, fast-

the CEO of this great company.”

craft and international beers,” said Gerard.

growing company is exciting, challenging and something that I am so proud to have been

While going to college and holding several

Under Gerard's leadership as CEO, The Liquor

given the opportunity to guide to success,”

jobs as a server, bartender and working

Company has grown rapidly. Today there

said Gerard.

at a micro-brewery in Las Cruces, New

are now three stores across the city, each

Mexico, Danny Gerard knew he wanted to

carrying over 350 to 400 beers depending

do something that would enable him to teach

on the season. Gerard and his team are also

DANNY GERARD

others about the growing world of beer.

looking to open more branches of The Liquor

915-996-5552

Empowered by his belief in small business, in

Company, one on the Westside as well as

dan@theliquorcompanys.com

September of 2010 he opened a small store

a store near post by Fort Bliss to serve the

www.facebook.com/theliquorcompanys

on the far Eastside of El Paso and called it The

military community and central El Paso.

www.theliquorcompanys.com

Liquor Company.

By MEAGAN KINLEY photograph by ROBERT CORRAL

73 S P E C I A L A D V E R T I S I N G | 73

Carlsbad Caverns national state Park , nM

El Paso

Stay-cations

| By MEagan kinlEY|

S

ummer is finally here and with the longer days and sunny weather many of us may wish we had scheduled that cruise to Cabo or a family vacation to Disney World. Unfortunately,

with excessive plane ticket prices and extravagant hotel fees, this type of cross-country adventure may seem out of the question. To squelch your wanderlust, looking local for your vacation can give El Pasoans of every walk of life an entertaining summer escape you are sure to remember for years to come.

Mesilla Valley, nM

Fine Wine. If you are craving a long week-

ery, Star Canyon Winery and La Vi単a Winery,

end to relax and get away from the city, look

each offering their own unique spin on classic

no further than El Paso's own little corner of

wines. After you have completed your lei-

throw away from all of the great restaurants

wine country. Hiding just beneath the Frank-

surely day of tasting, close the night with a

of Old Mesilla. It also has access to quiet

lin Mountains is a lush valley of vineyards of-

stay at the Casa de Rosie bed and breakfast.

paths along the farmlands of the Mesilla Val-

fering beautiful shade and fine refreshments.

Located just 25 miles west of the wineries,

ley. for reservations at casa de rosie, call

There are three wineries in all: Zin Valle Win-

this secluded bed and breakfast is a stones-

575-993-1410.

74

www.thecitymagazineelp.com

T R AV E L

July, 2013

Mountain Recreation. If fresh air is what

Cave Dive. Carlsbad Caverns National State

New Mexico. Cloudcroft is a mountain vil-

is recognized nation-wide for it's 118 wild and

lage surrounded by the Lincoln National For-

winding caves. Spend a weekend exploring

est just three hours outside of El Paso. At

the caves, hiking nearby at Sitting Bull Falls,

9,000 feet this town offers tourists hiking,

swimming in the Pecos River or venturing

golfing, fishing, horseback riding, swim-

into the town of Carlsbad for food and shop-

ming, and mountain biking. In addition,

ping. Carlsbad Caverns National Park offers

there is an old town center with delicious

both guided and self-guided tours. Tickets

restaurants and shopping that will give you

are only $10 for children and $15 for adults.

the alpine experience you have been look-

For reservations to the National Park, call

ing for. For an overnight stay, check into The

877-444-6777.

you desire, go off the map to Cloudcroft,

Park, just two and a half hours from El Paso,

Lodge Resort and Spa. Constructed in 1889, this charming resort offers quality comfort as well as a long list of amenities. For reserElephant Butte Lake State Park, NM

vations, call 800-345-6343.

Escape to the Lake. While the beach maybe

out of reach, Elephant Butte Lake State Park is the largest lake in New Mexico and is only two hours north of El Paso. Complete with a boat ramp and swimming beach, this lake offers vacationers of all ages virtually any water sport you can imagine. Also great for camping, this area has pristine views and breathtaking hiking trails. Make a weekend of it by escaping for a family camping trip or drive up for a day trip of swimming and an escape from the heat of El Paso.

Elephant Butte Lake State Park, NM

Carlsbad Caverns National State Park , NM

Cloudcroft NM

Mesilla Valley, NM

| Written and Photographed By: Amanda North |

Poet and essayist Wendell Berry said, “If you don’t know where you are, you don’t know who you are.” Where are you? A simple question that is often taken for granted.

Could it be true that we, humanity, cannot understand ourselves unless we understand the landscape around us?

Living in El Paso, we must learn

cia, only native to certain areas of the Chihuahuan desert

to understand a stark and dan-

and blooms fragrantly in the spring only to reveal its large

gerous beauty––the desert. It

white thorns beneath––a representation of the dangerous

is an aesthetic, a very specific

beauty of the desert. I began to recognize Acacia, and

aesthetic to El Pasoans, to find

other native plants, and felt grounded to place. After the

awe in the way a fire-burst sun-

wise words of a brilliant writer I started to wonder how

set finds her connection to the

landscape created me and formed my ideas about life.

sand’s ephemeral placement. If you learn to appreciate the unknown of the desert, the unpredictable nature of its mood swings, you can understand how to find beauty in place.

How does the desert negotiate who you are? What does landscape, or place, have to do with travel?

I learned as a small child how magical El Paso is; the smell of desert honeysuckle after a quick afternoon shower, a

I believe, everything. Comprehen-

spring dust storm’s creation of change without permis-

sion is gained by understanding what

sion, and the constant of the purple based mountains.

something is not. We understand the

Knowing my landscape allowed me to become present.

light by knowing the depth of dark-

I could look around myself to the natural home that sur-

ness, true recognition is through binary

rounded me in order to bring myself into moment. The

opposition. I learned this to be true in

desert taught me who I was.

my travels to Western Ireland. I was inspired by my landscape in the Chihuahuan

In one of my first writing workshops, in the Creative Writ-

desert, but the history of ghosts in the Irish

ing Program at the University of Texas at El Paso, we

soil took my writing to places I did not understand.

discussed the importance of place for poets, artists, and

The desert was my binary to the lush cliffs of Ireland.

people in general. It was a small moment that became

Both beautiful, but in their opposition helped me under-

revolutionary in the way I negotiate my way through life,

stand the other and, truly, appreciate details of place. I

and in my own writing. Benjamin Alire Sáenz, recent win-

became present in my travels by learning the landscape.

ner of the Pen/Faulkner Award for his novel Everything

Begins and Ends at the Kentucky Club, told those of us in

I had all intention of sleeping on my flight into limerick,

workshop how important it is for a writer to look before

Ireland. I couldn’t. The romantic fear of travel is like a drug

themselves and truly know what they are looking at. It

for me, the unknown completely enchanting. The island

is not just a bush with yellow flowers, it is a Sweet Aca-

below me was unlike anything I had ever seen. I had

www.thecitymagazineelp.com

77

We understand the light by knowing the depth of darkness, true recognition is through binary opposition. I learned this to be true in my travels to Western Ireland.

78

www.thecitymagazineelp.com

July 2013

SECTION

Knowing my landscape allowed me to become present. I could look around myself to the natural home that surrounded me in order to bring myself into moment. The desert taught me who I was. heard about the green landscape of Ireland, but that meant nothing until I saw it for myself. It is a shade I had never witnessed before. Later in a poem I said, of Ireland, “blinded by relentless rain/ and rye grass that whispers only in Gaelic.�

On my first day in Ireland my eyes could hardly find focus through the lush, vibrant green.

Where could I look? How could my eyes escape it? Ireland was so densely beautiful it almost hurt. My focus was used to a barren beauty, where the neutral colors of landscape allowed my eyes to adjust to the burst of color at each sunset. Ireland did not allow my eyes any bit of graceful neutrality. I would either figure out a way to take it in or it would swallow me in its beautiful boggy mouth. My time spent in Ireland, as a tourist and writer, was living on the delicate balance of grasping as much as I could before the emerald island, broken through relentless rain, would take me in, forever.

www.thecitymagazineelp.com

79

| By PaTriCk l. MarTinEz, B.s. nuTriTion, CErTiFiED FiTnEss TrainEr, FiTnEss nuTriTion CoaCH |

80

July, 2013

The days are longer and hotter, and the never-ending graduation pics on Facebook can mean only one thing: Summer is coming. For those of you who have who fallen off the New Year’s resolution train, fret not. There is still time to shed those unnecessary pounds and put a little definition into those muscles. So get your board shorts and bikinis ready because boot camp is about to begin.

Choose fruits that are filling and high in fiber such as apples. Don’t forget the water as well! Water is crucial during the summer months to keep you hydrated, but also to keep you from feeling hunger and by flushing out your system.

The second key to getting your beach body is to stay active. If you’re trying to get results quick, then step up the cardio and perform bodyweight exercises. Some great overall activities are swimming, biking, or running.

If you don’t work out regularly then there is

Now I know what you’re saying, ‘I thought

Cardio should be done at least three times

no point in starting a complicated regimen.

I had to cut out the carbs’. This is true, but

per week.

The best way to shed a few pounds and

you want to cut out car-

tone your body is to focus on your diet and

bohydrates like sodas,

perform simple exercises. The best way to

candy, bread, tortillas,

drop unnecessary fat quickly is to reduce the

chips, etc.

Those car-

amount of simple carbohydrates you are con-

bohydrates

are

suming and increase your protein intake. By

mental to your weight

doing this, your body will begin to utilize your

loss. What you do want

stored fats as fuel throughout the day.

is

detri-

carbohydrates

whole

grains,

like

sweet

For exercises, perform pushups, pull-ups, squats,

By creating a meal plan you are visualizing success. By knowing ahead of time what you’re going to make, you can shop smarter and healthier and eliminate the temptation to go out to eat

So the first and most important key to get-

potatoes, brown or wild

ting a beach body is your diet. The best way

rice, etc.

to tackle this is by creating a meal plan. By

carbohydrate that will provide your recom-

creating a meal plan you are visualizing suc-

mended daily allowance of fiber as well.

You want a

lunges, and any and all abdominal work. If you don’t belong to a gym, these

are

exercises

that can be performed at home or at the park.

If you haven’t exercised in a while you should avoid heavy weight lifting, as it will not get

you the quick results you’re looking for.

Because you are looking for quick results, you

cess. By knowing ahead of time what you’re going to make, you can shop smarter and

Choose proteins such as turkey, chicken and

want to do “bodyweight” or lightweight exer-

healthier and eliminate the temptation to

salmon. Try to stay away from red meat and

cises that will give you the definition you’re

go out to eat. As you’re creating your meal

pork, at least in the early stages of your train-

looking for in your swimsuit.

plan, you’re also creating your grocery list.

ing. When choosing your veggies, make sure

exercises are ones that use your own body

It is best to shop for a week at a time. This

they’re fresh. Of course eating a can of green

weight for resistance, such as push-ups. Try

will keep you from getting overwhelmed,

beans is not going to kill you, but if you’re go-

to do as many sets as you can until you feel

spending too much money, and eliminating

ing to do it, do it right. Stick to whole foods

that your muscles are giving out. If you do fifty

the desire to overeat or snack.

that you can prepare yourself. The more ad-

in set one before your muscles give out, then

ditives and preservatives you can reduce, the

shoot for fifty again on set 2. The key is to do

Your meal plan should consist of breakfast,

better results you will see. You can eat fruits

as many as your muscles will allow in those 3

snack, lunch, snack, and dinner. With every

as well, but try to stay away from really sweet

or 4 sets. The combination of a healthy meal

meal you want to have a source of protein, a

fruit as it contains a lot of sugar. Yes, fruit is

plan, cardio, and bodyweight exercises will

vegetable, a healthy fat (which may be found

good for you, but when you’re trying to lose

guarantee quick results and get you into your

in the protein), and a complex carbohydrate.

weight, certain fruits can slow your progress.

swimsuit just in time for summer!

www.thecitymagazineelp.com

Bodyweight

81

82

Barnett BMW Motorcycles of El Paso 8229 BURNHAM RD EL PASO, TX 79907-1524 915-592-6599

84

| By Jannet Bustillos |

love

B

ody language can be extremely important in the dating scene. This can dictate whether or not someone is into you. Body language

expert Tonya Reiman, the author of the book, “The Body Language

of Dating,” says we send out subtle signals all the time without knowing it, and those nonverbal signs are stronger than any pickup line. But if you are like most of us, we aren't sure if we are portraying the right signal or not.

Below is a guide that may be very

conversation and feel like there is some

helpful on the body language

potential there, then make sure you are

you should or shouldn't be put-

paying 100% of your attention.

ting out there.

Do's: Be aware. Be self-aware of what you do and the type of signals you are sending.

Don'ts: Don't slouch. Make sure you have proper posture. Standing up straight shows con-

Just be happy and smile. Smiling can be

fidence, and can make you look like you

infectious, so make sure you are doing a

mean business. This also helps you look

lot of it. Not only will you feel good about

thinner and taller.

yourself, but also this attracts people and makes you seem more approachable.

Keep eye contact! Looking around the room can make you seem insecure. It is

Point your body in their direction. This

very important that you maintain eye con-

shows you have their full attention.

tact while talking to your crush.

According to some studies, slightly tilting Don't cross your arms.

Crossing your

your head to the left can be sexually at-

arms can make you look defensive, and

tractive. Whoa! Who would have known?

make the other person feel uncomfortable.

Nod your head when they are speaking.

This shows that you are listening and inter-

Get too close for comfort. Everyone has

acting in the conversation.

his or her own "bubble." This means we all have a certain area around us, and when

They are interested if….

people cross it, it makes us feel uncomfortable. This doesn't mean you necessarily have to stand two bar stools away;

•

Their lips part slightly, and their pupils dilate.

a slight lean in is perfectly fine. If the person has to move away from you because you're too close, please get the hint and

• You are the only one in the room. You are the sole focus.

back off!

This is a cardinal rule - Don't be on your

• When they look at you and their eye-

brows go up. This is a sign of interest.

phone. This means no texting, checking Facebook, or taking phone calls. Not only is this a turn off, but you are sending the

• They "check you out."

I'm not saying in

a vulgar manner, but just an innocent

wrong message that you are obviously not

stare down is a sign that they are at-

that into them. If you are intrigued by the

tracted physically.

www.thecitymagazineelp.com

"All changes, even the most longed for, have their melancholy; for what we leave behind us is a part of ourselves; we must die to one life before we can enter another." ~Anatole France | By MICHELLE CROMER |

M

y doctor says I need to change my eat-

It seems that changing doesn’t happen simply be-

ing habits, my husband says I need to

cause a person joins a movement or converts to some

change the way I interact with him,

form of faith. Those things can help; they can widen

my fat butt says I need to change my

one’s perspective and bring you to the banks of the

workout routine, and I think I need to change my ap-

flowing river of life. yet the baptism takes place under

proach to God. I continually tackle life with habitual

the water and no one actually sees the change that

attitudes while expecting outcomes to be different.

occurs.

The outcomes don’t seem to change. Not simply do-

86

ing things differently but becoming a different person,

In ancient India hunters developed a proven method

both more aware within and more alert in life is really

for catching monkeys. A big coconut would be hol-

what I am attempting to accomplish.

lowed out. Then a hole was made in it, just large

www.thecitymagazineelp.com

July 2013

enough to allow the monkey’s paw to pass through. The coconut would then be pinned to the ground and some tempting fruit would be placed inside the hollowed shell.

Inevitably, a monkey would approach the shell and want the fruit. As soon as the paw of the monkey grabbed the fruit, he was trapped because the fist and the fruit were too big to go through the opening in the shell. In order to become free of the trap all the monkey had to do was let go of the prize it coveted so much, but the monkey would not let go. The monkey was trapped by what it desired and held on to. I think a lot of us are like these monkeys.

Some of us stay trapped and imprisoned, caught by a narrow desire, and also by a fierce and blind unwillingness to simply let go of what we’ve held to be necessary or important.

Many take hold of something and refuse to let go, even when they become stuck in one place, even if they can’t taste the sweetness they first reached for in life. Some hold onto another person and refuse to let go; others take up an idea, a political belief or a religious notion that was supposed to set them free.

After a time, they become trapped inside narrowing ideas or rigid rules. Soon they are caught in a trap made of their beliefs.

www.thecitymagazineelp.com

87 Federally Insured by NCUA

July 2013

Change is hard because we hold on to what keeps us from changing; because freedom feels like losing something that we are used to clinging to; because real change means that we would no longer desire what is trapping us.

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Genuine change involves pain just as birth involves labor. Many come to prefer the pain that they know to a birth that they can’t control.

There are many religions and philosophies that promise to end the piercing troubles and deadening habits if you only believe in them.

However, belief in a spiritual experience of others can only act as an inspiration. In order to truly change, we must let go of our habitual ways and cut off that which otherwise seems natural and common to the rest of us.

Wisdom is always valuable because it remains hard to find; it hides where most people prefer not to go. Wisdom and true freedom are found when we submit to the way we are intended to go and surrender to the mysterious ways we are intended to grow.

Like Leo Tolstoy said, “Everyone thinks of changing the world, but no one thinks of changing himself.” This summer it’s time for me to start changing me.

www.thecitymagazineelp.com

www.thecitymagazineelp.com

89

July, 2013

SECTION

PROPERTY

VIRGINS | By MEGAN KINLEY |

To the property virgin, the idea of buying a home can be masked in a cloud of mystery and confusion. With rumors of an unstable housing market, the ambiguity of establishing credit, and the uncertainty of even knowing where to start, the home-buying hysteria is enough to scare away any first-timer. But never fear; with a little bit of research and a little know-how, The City staff has got you covered with a few helpful steps to landing you in a home you can call your own.

90

www.thecitymagazineelp.com

PROPERTY VIRGINS

July, 2013

Finding a reliable realtor

Let the games begin

T

O

title loans and open houses. There are a lot of realtors in the El

monthly payments and try to find a house that will eat up no

Paso area. Doing research online and asking your friends and

more than 28% of your income. Staying within this budget will

family members for reputable agents is a great first step. One

be something you will be thankful for in the years to come.

indicator of the quality of a realtor is his work ethic. A good

Also, make sure that you consider the interest rates as you are

realtor is out working and isn’t in his office. Also, make sure to

calculating your budget. Once your offer is approved you will

ask how they will stay connected to you through the closing

want to begin talking to a mortgage company about locking

process. You will want an agent who is technologically savvy to

in the best rate possible. These rates are constantly changing

keep you updated with frequent phone calls, texts and emails

with the market; you want to make sure that your interest rate

as you make an offer, inspect and appraise your prospective

does not add too much to your overall monthly payment.

he first and most important step to landing your dream home is finding a real estate expert with experience who

will have your back as you venture into the world of mortgages,

nce you are pre-approved it’s time to begin the hunt.

Start by communicating with your realtor and decide on

a budget that fits your lifestyle needs. look at the estimated

future home.

Once you have the budget, narrow down different areas and

Getting approved for your loan

A

subdivisions you are interested in. If you are single this could mean finding something on the hip side of town, whereas if

ny good realtor will encourage you to get pre-approved

you have children, maybe an area with a prominent school dis-

with a mortgage company before even beginning to look

trict. You also may want to consider what the area will look

at a house. If you try to begin looking for homes before this

like in the coming years. The safety and development of the

action has been completed, you may find the house you loved

surrounding area may directly impact the value of your home.

has been sold to another buyer before your bank has given you

Take your time to survey homes and open houses and don’t

the go-ahead. Once you are pre-approved you will be able to

be in a hurry. Buying a house is one of the biggest decisions

make an offer on a home and begin the closing process. The

of your financial life and you want to make sure you find the

documents you need for this pre-approval may change depend-

perfect place for you.

ing on the type of loan you are requesting. Your realtor will be able to help you pick out the loan that is right for you.

Look at the estimated monthly payments and try to find a house that will eat up no more than 28% of your income. Staying within this budget will be something you will be thankful for in the years to come.

91

PROPERTY VIRGINS

July, 2013

Making an offer

O

nce you have found the home you have always dreamed of, it’s time to

it never hurts to do research to find the best. A

make an offer. Your realtor will be your ally in this process. It’s important

good inspector takes pictures and makes illustra-

to remember that getting your offer approved does not obligate you to the

tions in his inspection to show you exactly what

original price you offered or to the home itself. The closing process will last four

is wrong if he finds a problem. It’s also not a bad

to five weeks and in that time the price may fluctuate depending on the results

idea to have a separate inspection for termite and

of the inspection and appraisal. Getting the seller to approve your offer simply

insect infestations. The fees for these usually land

means the house is off the market from other prospective buyers.

around $200.

Most mortgage companies will also require you to

Insurance, inspection, appraisal and interest rate

Y

our offer has just been approved and your mind is already abuzz with

have the home appraised. This not only protects you but also keeps them as the lender from investing in a house that has lost its value. Appraisals can cost anywhere from $350 to $400, the price

ideas on how you want to update and decorate your new home. But be-

fore you bust out the paint, remember the closing process is long and can be an arduous time of ups and downs. After the seller has accepted your offer you need to put down money for title insurance. This usually costs around $500 and safeguards you from intruders who may try to claim your house as theirs.

Also, you will have about 10 days to have the house examined by a licensed inspector. This step is critically important and protects you as the buyer. After all, you don’t want to blindly move into a house with a faulty roof or a cracked foundation. Your realtor will be able to recommend some great inspectors but

92

www.thecitymagazineelp.com

July, 2013

PROPERTY VIRGINS

Closing

A

fter all the craziness of the closing process has been completed, it’s time to seal the deal. On the

day of closing you will show up to the house for the final walkthrough. This is a time for you to make sure all damage is accounted for and that the house is in the condition you agreed upon.

After your walkthrough, it’s time to sign away. You better get out your pen because you will be signing about a hundred pages worth of documents. After the

varying on the property type, square footage, and location.

If during this process you find something you cannot live with, you have the freedom to walk away or renegotiate with the seller to find a price that better matches the current worth and condition of the home.

last page is signed, the house is officially yours and the move to your new home can begin!

Yes, the process is long, but all the research, money and time are truly investments you will never regret. To all the property virgins out there, don’t be afraid of buying a home. Like anything else worthwhile, it is something that can be achieved with a little bit of work and a lot of perseverance.

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LEADING THE BUSINESS OF AVIATION

Thelma Briffa American Living Realty

"We offer El Paso a company that is about the customer. We do everything we can to help people live the American dream."

AMERICAN LIVING REALTY 6633 N. Mesa suite 104 El Paso, Texas 79912 Phone: (915) 204-1234 Fax: (915) 642-4320

T

helma Briffa is a savvy saleswoman

As a technology-forward company, they have

with a degree in Fashion Merchandis-

listings on all of the major online real estate

ing. After a few successful business

sites and are working to “go-green” with

ventures she was ready for her next big challenge,

an eco-friendly paperless office. They have

real estate. She had a dream to revolutionize the

also just opened a new office right off Mesa

world of realty and offer the people of El Paso

Street on El Paso's Westside.

unparalleled customer service. By following her heart and her natural instinct on July 31st, 2006

Thelma Briffa is one of El Paso's most fear-

American Living Realty was born.

less and passionate real estate brokers. As the founder of American Living Realty she

“It was just me for awhile. I started out of my

has 19 years of experience and truly cares

house and then moved to a virtual office. We

about her clients. “I love what I do and I take

have worked hard buying and selling residen-

pride in my work.”

tial and commercial real estate and we are Charlie Diaz de Leon is a native El Pasoan

growing,” said Briffa.

with over eight years experience in real esAmerican Living Realty is growing. A 'bou-

tate. Working with Thelma the last three

tique' real estate company, they currently

years, he has enjoyed helping American Liv-

has six active realtors, with two more agents

ing Realty grow. “We do our best to guide

beginning their practice in July. Thelma has

our clients and help them to make the best

trained her realtors to do everything they can

decision possible.”

to fully educate their clients on all aspects of

96

| SPECIAL ADVERTISING

the market. They are even moving to have a

Frances Rittmann, a native El Pasoan, has

first-time buyer seminar, an investor’s semi-

been practicing real estate more than 30

nar, as well as a career night to recruit new

years. As a graduate of the Realtors Insti-

agents later this year.

tute and a multi-million dollar producer, she

By MEAGAN KINLEY photograph by ROBERT CORRAL

July 2013

E L P A S O R E A LT O R S

recently joined the American Living team in June of 2013.

Saundra Anderson joined the American Living team in January 2013. She has worked in real estate for ten years and become a multimillion dollar producer. Prior to her successful career in realty, she worked in the world of fashion as a model, designer and was also the owner of her own fashion line, Bolera.

Cesar Martinez, a native El Pasoan, was a 2013 multi-million-dollar producer. Licensed

Charlie Diaz de Leon

Frances Rittmann

in real estate since 1986 and practicing since 1995, Martinez has also served as a firefighter for over 27 years. “I provide excellent service to every customer.�

Jessica Yu is a new member of the American Living team who joined in 2013. Currently she is an 'apprentice-in-training' to Thelma and working to attain her real estate

American Living Realty

Loving What We Do

license. Her future goal is to offer outstandSaundra Anderson

ing customer service and one day become a top producer.

Valerie Herrera has been with American Living for the past five months as the office administrator. A student at UTEP, she is studying Multi-media Journalism and is also working to attain her real estate license.

Jorge A. Nieves has been living in El Paso for almost 25 years. Before becoming a realtor he was in the business management field for many years. Nieves knows how to treat

Cesar Martinez

Jessica Yu

Valerie Herrera

Jorge A. Nieves

his clients with professionalism, respect and dignity. As a multi-million dollar producer, Nieves' offers experience and dedication to his profession in real estate.

Baltazar Rodriquez has worked in sales all his life and transitioned to real estate two years ago. In that time he has become a multi-million dollar producer and specializes as a buying representative. Rodriquez loves helping first-time homebuyers into their first house.

(Not shown) www.thecitymagazineelp.com

97

Letty Salas El Paso Home Rentals

"I do my best to help them find a comfortable home away from home."

LETTY SALAS El Paso Home Rentals 10940 Ben Crenshaw, Ste B El Paso, Texas 79935 O. 915-594-7905 F. 915-594-9253 C. 915-240-6387 www.elpasohomerentals.net lsalas123@live.com

98

| SPECIAL ADVERTISING

A

s the gloomy real estate market storm

needs of my clients and earn their respect

has taken a much-anticipated turn

and trust,” explained Salas. “I have had the

towards sunny skies, new opportu-

privilege of working with many of our military

nities and better expectations are abound. “El

families and have firsthand experience of

Paso has a very good rental market due to the

their sacrifice. I do my best to help them find

high volume of military units coming in; coupled

a comfortable home away from home.”

with the bad economic conditions which have forced new buyers to re-think whether they

Along with their commitment to enhancing

should buy or rent. Because of the job market,

the experience for their property owners by

people are becoming more mobile and prefer

offering quarterly walk throughs, to ensure

not to be tied to a mortgage payment,” ex-

that each property is being well maintained,

plained letty Salas, qualified realtor and prop-

Letty Salas and El Paso Home Rentals have

erty manager for El Paso Home Rentals.

worked to establish a strong unit within the office. “It is our support system as property

Acting as a property management firm and

managers that allows us to be able to ensure

tenant placement agency, El Paso Home

that each and every client’s needs are met,”

Rentals was established just over a decade

asserted Salas. “It truly is a team effort. We

ago and successfully oversees more than

continue to grow our business and our goal is

200 rental homes in the El Paso area. “My

to be one of the largest and most professional

philosophy has always been to help meet the

rental businesses in the El Paso market.”

By CANDACE VASQUEZ photograph by ROBERT CORRAL

Jack

Bumgardner ERA Sellers Buyers & Associates

J

ack Bumgardner has served as a top-

meetings to work personally with every client

producing agent in the real estate market

and staying connected to his clientele through

for 11 years. As a listing agent, he has

constant updates on their sale or purchase.

also represented three local home builders and is one of El Paso's most knowledgeable

“When you choose to work with me to sell

home specialists.

your home, you are going to get weekly updates,” he said. “Often times realtors only

“I am a former athlete and football player, I

provide the positive, I provide all so you can

look at everything in terms of competition to

understand the process.”

attain success for my clients. When I played, I wasn't the biggest or the strongest, but I

Although many agents in the real estate

worked hard to earn my position on the field,”

profession will treat a client as just a source

Bumgardner said. “In real estate I want to

of income, Bumgardner strives to treat each

outwork my competition and do the things

customer like a member of his family.

that no one else will.”

“Jack does not just sell or broker a purchase, Bumgardner incorporates three components

he listens to your needs and desires,” said

into his business strategy: staying informed

former client Kelly Walston. “He doesn’t just

about the current and future market trends,

work to sell you a house – he works to find

making

you a home.”

time

for

interactive

face-to-face

By MEAGAN KINLEY photograph by ROBERT CORRAL

"Amateurs practice to get it right, professionals practice to never get it wrong."

JACK BUMGARDNER ERA Sellers, Buyers & Associates 780 N. Resler Dr. El Paso, Tx 79912 D. 915-587-8225 F. 915-842-1429 C.915-479-9407 jackbumgardner@hotmail.com

99 S P E C I A L A D V E R T I S I N G | 99

Daisy Aguirre Realtor

ERA Sellers Buyers & Associates

Daisy consistently ranks as a "Top 5" Realtor within her company

A

s one of the youngest realtors in El

Daisy attributes her success to constant edu-

Paso, Daisy Aguirre of ERA Sellers,

cation, which she uses to expand her knowl-

Buyers & Associates offers a viva-

edge base and grow her skills. To keep up to

ciousness and tenacity that is rare amongst

date on the today’s ever-evolving real estate

even the most experienced real estate agents.

market, she is personally coached by Brian

She brings that energy to each client she works

Buffini of Buffini & Company, America's larg-

with, working long hours with a commitment

est real estate training and coaching company.

to customer satisfaction that keeps her clients referring their friends and family to Daisy.

DAISY AGUIRRE, REALTOR ERA Sellers, Buyers & Associates 915.820.9504 daisyaguirre@sellersbuyers.com www.facebook.com/daisy.aguirre.39 "Text DAISY to 87778 to

download my house hunting app!"

100 | S P E C I A L A D V E R T I S I N G

“I love to learn, and every new thing I pick up allows me to better serve my clients and

Known as El Paso’s “Home Girl,” Daisy con-

keep them educated on the complex process

sistently ranks as a “Top 5” Realtor within

of buying or selling a home,” she said.

her company for her innovative marketing strategies that ensure her listings the high-

Through this commitment to excellence, Dai-

est exposure possible. She seamlessly in-

sy has earned herself the trust of the El Paso

tegrates social media campaigns with other

community and a 100-percent referral-based

more “outside-the-box” styles that allow her

clientele. When you are looking to buy or sell

to reach the ever-expanding market of buyers

a home in El Paso, look to you hometown

and sellers in the digital age.

“Home Girl” to get the service you deserve.

By CANDACE VASQUEZ photograph by DAV ANMED

Danny Gerard Golden Real Estate

A

real estate agent with Golden Real

Gerard goes the extra mile for his clients.

Estate, Danny Gerard's goal is to grant

He guides them through all the steps of

the people of El Paso excellent service

home ownership; from qualifying for a loan,

in the world of real estate. Gerard, born and

to searching for the perfect house, through

raised in Socorro, New Mexico, got his start

the numerous inspections, and on to finally

after graduating from New Mexico State Uni-

closing. He is also well versed in all of

versity with a job in commercial banking with

today's best social media and technology,

Wells Fargo, El Paso in 2003.

keeping his customers up to date in every way he can.

“After working hard I was able to come back to El Paso as the market president for First

“What sets me apart is my dedication to

Federal/Washington Federal Bank. I left

my clients, both sellers and buyers. I feel

banking to pursue real estate which was my

that everyone should have a shot at home

true passion and first love,” said Gerard.

ownership. I love helping people find the home of their dreams. A home is a place to

Gerard's desire to serve propelled him into the

love, laugh and raise a family. It's security and

real estate market. With a focus on building

investment all wrapped up into the greatest

residential homes and investing in commercial

single thing money can buy,” said Gerard.

and residential real estate, Gerard is helping people attain home ownership everyday.

"There is no greater honor than helping people with their single largest investment and being part of the American Dream. I love being a REALTOR!" DANNY GERARD Golden Real Estate 1320 Zaragoza Suite 120 El Paso, Texas 79936 915-996-5552 dannygerardrealtor.com danny@dannygerardrealtor.com www.facebook.com/dannygerardrealtor

By MEAGAN KINLEY photograph by ROBERT CORRAL

101 S P E C I A L A D V E R T I S I N G | 101

Chris Rojas ERA Sellers Buyers & Associates

"I love real estate and I definitely love El Paso."

C

hris Rojas has been serving in the real

In addition to his professional service, Rojas

estate industry for three years, assist-

is committed to the El Paso community.

ing people in the sales and purchases

of their homes. Although he specializes in new

A 2002 graduate of El Paso High School, he

homes, and represents local builder Desert View

created a scholarship fund at the school by

Homes, Rojas prides himself with being able to

donating a percentage of his earnings from

facilitate the sale of any home in the El Paso area.

any purchase, sale or referral of an EPHS alumnus.

“I really enjoy helping a family find a home to CHRIS ROJAS ERA Sellers Buyers & Associates 915-443-3598 Fax: 915-842-1416 www.chrisrojasrealtor.com chrisrojas@sellersbuyers.com facebook.com/chrisrojasrealtor

fit their needs,” rojas said. “It’s an amazing

Rojas also provides credit counseling for

feeling to know that I can help someone make

each of his clients, advising them how to

their dreams come true, especially when I get

build their credit score and improve their

to work with members of the armed forces

financial situation.

who serve our country so diligently.”

“Most realtors will send clients to a credit Customer service is priority one for Rojas, who

repair company and that’s it. I team up with

stays constantly in contact with his clients.

the mortgage company so I can ensure the whole process is seamless. The reason I got

“Buying a house is the biggest decision you

into this business was to help people. I love

will make in your life, I do everything possible

El Paso and I definitely love real estate.”

to ensure my clients are 100 percent satisfied.”

102 | S P E C I A L A D V E R T I S I N G

By MEAGAN KINLEY photograph by ROBERT CORRAL

Sue & Jennifer Woo Sandy Messer & Associates

I

n today’s competitive real estate market,

board for the El Paso Symphony, past chairman

it’s easy to become overwhelmed with

of the UMC Foundation and much more.

what decisions you have to make and if

those decisions are right for you. However,

Following in her mother’s footsteps, Jennifer

there are people in our community that serve

Woo began her real estate career 7 years

to make this process enjoyable and easy. Sue

ago and has since offered commercial

and Jennifer Woo are the mother-daughter real

and residential real estate services such

estate dream team from El Paso’s leading real

as buying, selling, relocating, & investing.

estate company, Sandy Messer & Associates.

She prides herself on an unparalleled

With over 32 years of experience, they have

customer service experience that satisfies

the knowledge and understanding of our com-

her customer’s needs at all times. Jennifer

munity that allows them to provide valuable

also devotes much of her free time to

commercial and residential guidance to clients

organizations like Center Against Family

throughout El Paso.

Violence, El Paso Children’s Hospital, YWCA, and more.

As a stay at home mom, Sue Woo dedicated her time to giving back to her community through

As realtors, Sue and Jennifer are in the

volunteering anywhere and everywhere. After

business of selling and buying homes, but

deciding to get her real estate license over 25

more importantly they build relationships.

years ago, her dedication to her community

What they love most about their careers is

did not falter. Sue remains active in the El

“Selling how wonderful the city of El Paso is

Paso community by serving as chairman of the

and the growth that is to come.”

By DANIEL BELL photograph by ROBERT CORRAL

"As realtors, Sue and Jennifer are in the business of selling and buying homes, but more importantly they build relationships."

SUE AND JENNIFER WOO WWW.WOOREALESTATE.NET 855 N. Resler Dr #C, El Paso, Texas 79912 JENNIFER WOO

SUE WOO

Sandy Messer

Sandy Messer

& Associates

& Associates

P:(915) 539-6132

P: (915) 740-5600

jenawoo@gmail.com

suejfw@aol.com

103 S P E C I A L A D V E R T I S I N G | 103

Lane Harris Harris Real Estate Group

"My goal is to instill the highest level of confidence and trust in everybody that works with me and my team."

LANE HARRIS Harris Real Estate Group / Keller Williams Realty El Paso P: (915) 443-8423 O: (915) 222-1133 LaneHarris@kw.com 6006 N. Mesa St., Suite 700

A

s El Paso continues to grow, so does

1% of El Paso realtors in 2011 and 2012, while

the need for the buying and selling

also being recognized as one of El Paso’s top

of new and existing homes. Future

25 real estate agents in the city. Lane says,

and current homeowners can rest assured

“I have always had a passion for real estate

that there is a real estate agent to help make

at a young age and began pursuing my real

their move effortless and exciting. Lane Harris

estate

license

while

attending

college.”

is dedicated to providing the highest level of real estate services and specializes in new

Noting the significant growth and change of

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104 | S P E C I A L A D V E R T I S I N G

By DANIEL BELL photograph by ROBERT CORRAL

106

| By: JoHn DEl rosario Photography By: roBErT Corral |

El Paso’s Star on the Mountain is the most famous and iconic set of light bulbs in the city.

Its 459 individual light bulbs shine southeasterly over El Paso and Ciudad Juarez atop our resolute Franklins like a stagnant, overachieving lamp of our own landlocked lighthouse.

t

he second-most famous set of light bulbs is up for debate. Some may claim the lights at the front of the Plaza Theater should take the honor

due to the theater’s rich 84 year history, but the city’s tired, poor and huddled masses, those mad ones desirous of everything at the same time (along with some righteous old-timers), will probably beg to differ.

The Tap’s approximately 70 incandescent light bulbs that glow (or not) within the red neon outline of its sign vary in brightness and functionality, bleeding beams of glorious abandonment onto El Paso’s downtown. It’s as if debris from old Las Vegas blew south from the Mojave, like electric tumbleweed, only to settle on top of one of the most celebrated dive bars in El Paso.

The Tap is a diamond in the rough of a downtown scene that is more famous for a growing, vibrant and swanky Union Plaza scene, complete with dress codes and VIP sections.

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The Tap is a restaurant and bar located at 408 East Stanton Street conveniently right in front of a bus stop. Opened in 1956 by Charles Soule and his half brother, and now owned by his daughter Charlene Soule, the restaurant/bar doesn’t only serve your nononsense cocktails and domestic American and Mexican beers. It is also a fully functioning restaurant that opens early everyday at nine in the morning (except Sunday when they’re open at 10) for breakfast and, on the weekends, later for your late night cravings. “My father always knew that food, beer and wine went together at all times,” Charlene Soule said.

The Tap’s menu features a full menu of

Then... there are the nachos. Widely

by neon beer signs, the glow from its

American and Mexican standards from

praised locally, as well as on social net-

four TVs, the TouchTunes jukebox and the

the bacon and eggs to the huevos ran-

works and blogs, the Tap’s nachos don’t

small lamps that light old, faded paint-

cheros for breakfast, both served with

skimp on the good stuff. Every single

ings. The lights reflect off of the mirrors

beans and hash browns. For any other

tortilla chip is covered under layers of

that line all the walls, maximizing what

time of the day, there is sizable selection

beans, cheese and peppers to make for

little light is produced. The paintings de-

of items like steak, pork chops, tacos,

a good plate for sharing, each bite as fla-

pict scenes of Aztecs and the Mexican

chile rellenos, enchiladas and burritos of

vorful as the last.

Revolution, some faded into dying sepia tone breaths of color displacement. The

all sorts. Menudo is also free from 10am12pm on Sundays.

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The atmosphere is pure dive bar, lit only

Aztec pictures, Soule said, were taken

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July, 2013 from a calendar and taken to be blown

simply looking for an unpretentious wa-

up in a place in Juarez by her father.

tering hole and younger hipsters who

Also, a blown up picture of the back of

ironically, and perhaps unintentionally,

a peso printed under Pancho Villa’s ad-

inject a level of pretention right back into

ministration seems like it belongs there,

what is otherwise a trusty, neighborhood

but has a greater meaning to the family

bar. Celebrities that they’ve served in-

for it is signed by Charlene’s great-great

clude Ted Nugent, Juan Gabriel, Kalimba

(she actually doesn’t know how many

and cast members of Glory Road.

“greats” to add)-grandfather who was Villa’s treasurer.

Live music is featured weekly with the TouchTunes jukebox otherwise filling

The three flat screen TVs appear to be a

the silence. Don’t be surprised to hear

relatively new addition to the bar on ac-

M83, George Strait, Los Tigres Del Norte

count of the one still-in-commission CRT

and Drake within the course of a single

big screen that sits on a stand right as

pitcher. Some nights, it gets like that.

you enter the place.

With unexpectedly amazing food from A lonely red felt pool table sits at the back

a bar that makes no apologies for its

of the bar underneath a lamp like it’s right

threadbare, cavernous atmosphere, the

out of a Robert Frank photo.

Tap should be on anyone’s El Paso bucket list. It’s the “Downtown Bar” that is every-

Regulars include an older crowd that is

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thing a downtown bar should be.

| By JOHN DEL ROSARIO |

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P L A Z A C L A S S I C F I L M F E S T I VA L

July, 2013

“We didn’t know if anyone was going to show up,” said El Paso Community Foundation President Eric Pearson of what is now the largest classic film festival in the world, the Plaza Classic Film Festival.

All that money and commitment has truly paid off, both financially as well as in upping the profile of our humble city. Pearson estimates that between the two downtown Photos courtesy of The El Paso Community Foundation

T

festivals that the Community Foundation holds (Plaza Classic Film Festival and Chalk

he Community Foundation, which

movies. Since then, annual attendance is up-

the Block), both bring in a combined $2 mil-

presents the festival, was pitched

wards of 30,000 people enjoying around 80

lion to the city each year. “We’re getting peo-

the idea by Pearson in April 2008

to 85 movies all in and around the glorious

ple from far away to come here and spend

when he was still Executive Vice-

Plaza Theater downtown.

money, but more importantly, we’re putting

President. With limited experience, he and a

El Paso on the map, that it’s more than just a

group of people, including local film enthusi-

“The El Paso Community Foundation re-

border town, more than what it has been for

ast Chuck Horak (now the festival’s artistic

stored the Plaza Theater in partnership with

a long time,” he said. “We’ve been written

director), set out to put on this experiment in

the city of El Paso and gave it to the city,” he

up in Film Comment Magazine, and in the

film appreciation.

said. “It was a movie house. When I would

Chicago Sun Times.

go speak to the Rotary Club, Lion’s Club or

That’s press

“We worked really hard and we didn’t know

any group, people would inevitably want to

that’s come

what we were doing,” Pearson continued.

tell me their story of their first kiss on the bal-

to El Paso in

“Chuck had been to some film festivals, I

cony and the movies they saw. They would

a vein that it

had never been to one. We had done events

ask, ‘When are you going to bring movies

rarely ever gets

in the theater, so we had an understanding

back?’ So the El Paso Community Foundation

press in.”

of how to put things together but we didn’t

purchased a full movie setup as an additional

know what was going to happen. On the first

gift to the theater. We have a full 35mm reel-

day of the festival, Cynthia Haines, who was

to-reel projector, digital cinema projectors and

a professor and film scholar at uTEP, came

a 48-foot screen. It was almost a million dollar

inside to us and said, ‘You guys have got to

commitment to retrofit a new perform-

see this.’ We go outside - and it’s a hot Au-

ing arts theater into a movie

gust day - and the line for Casablanca leaves

theater.”

the theater, goes around the corner past the arts festival plaza, past the art museum and down Santa Fe Street. I was emotional.” That year, the festival brought in around 27,000 people to watch and learn about 64 classic www.thecitymagazineelp.com

P L A Z A C L A S S I C F I L M F E S T I VA L

July, 2013

of Music, West Side Story and Ben-Hur

ple, without judgment, to show what

and cult classics like Clerks, The Rocky

they can do. We’ve been pleasantly sur-

Horror Picture Show and This Is Spinal

prised of the quality of movies that we’ve

Tap, classic film lovers will have a bevy

shown. Usually, we show 20-25 hours of

of films to choose from.

local films, not juried.”

“Chuck Horak has done a great job of

It has also attracted the likes of movie stars

melding what you want and what you

and critics like El Paso-born Debbie Reyn-

ought to want and in a good and taste-

olds, legend Al Pacino and well-known film

ful way, enhancing the palettes of movie

critic Leonard Maltin, among many.

goers in El Paso and the region,” Pearson said. “I think that’s an outstanding feat.”

In addition to the classic films, the fesThen, there are the films. Indelible ti-

tival also has the wider intent of pro-

tles like Lawrence of Arabia, Breakfast

moting local filmmakers. For years, local

at Tiffany’s, Star Wars and Gone With

full-length film and short film showcases

the Wind have all graced the festival’s

have put a spotlight on El Paso’s up-and-

screens, offering an affordable summer-

coming talent. “Our philosophy is that

time escape for locals and visitors.

we want to encourage people to make art,” Pearson said. “The El Paso Community Foundation is the second-largest

112

This year’s selections do not disappoint,

funder of the arts in the city, behind the

either. With popular titles like The Sound

city, itself. We want to encourage peo-

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The festival’s success Pearson attributes to several factors, “We do it at a time of year when there’s not much going on,” he said facetiously, “and it’s affordable for families to come. Those are the minor things. But I think the big part of it is that it shows that there’s a yearning for more.”

With a classic film format, Pearson sees the festival as a way to bring in older and younger crowds for the simple appreciation of movies. “The commonality of art as something you can interpret in your own way and make into your own personal story is what speaks to us,” he said. “Movies speak to us in that very same way. Whether you’re touched by visuals on a screen or a single line of dialogue, it speaks to you the way a line is drawn on a canvas or a melody that’s played. There is a core in all of us that yearns to communicate and connect with each other. That’s a part of our human spirit.

When you can see when someone has defined that bit of you in some way, then it speaks to you.”

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The New

Photo by: VANESSA REYES

EL PASO ARTIST Natalie Baca’s Perseverance is Rewarded as the City’s Arts Community Blooms

| By RYAN HEAPE |

I

n April, El Paso-based artist Natalie Baca entered one of her mixed-media paintings into a t-shirt design contest created by Jessica and Ashlee Simpson for Jessica Seinfeld’s

charity, Baby Buggy. A former fashion designer and apparel industry hustler herself before bowing out to pursue her artistic urges, it’s no surprise Baca’s “Six of Hearts” design won; it is elegant, formally interesting, and evocative of the same hope and generosity as the charity its sales will support. Baca was surprised enough to come up short of breath when she heard the news over the phone, however. “I just couldn’t believe it.

And it’s so weird: Now I’m back in the rag business. I’ve come full circle.” In the last two months, she’s gotten ink in People, Life & Style, and Us Weekly for the shirt, part of what has become a welcome return on the risks Baca took coming to El Paso in the early nineties. It’s not the first time Baca’s faith

from college to visit my newly relocated parents at Fort Bliss.

has been rewarded.

Being new to the city at that time, I was quickly enamored with its music and aesthetics. There was a glow of vibrant,

In October 2011, the El Paso Downtown Arts District was

widespread creative potential. When I ask Baca about what

finally born; right around the time I started coming home

I perceived to be a healthy and exciting arts community in El

L ocal A rtist S potlight

Paso, she flatly remarks, “Well, it wasn’t. Not

Baca’s mosaics often subsume Latin folk art

when I first got here.” Baca grew up in Okla-

iconography—the Virgin de Guadalupe, Day

homa and got an apparel design degree from

of the Dead imagery, Frida—while achiev-

Oklahoma State before gravitating toward El

ing the levity of pop art. Repurposed trinkets

Paso. “When I started, I really struggled. There

and found objects like old Squirt bottle caps

were just very few outlets for me. Art was a

punctuate bright colors and lively, rhythmic

hard sell back then and there wasn’t a push or

patterns. Baca learned art through the act of

a demand for it.” While she persevered, she

expression as well as some trial-and-error, and

met her now-husband and father of her two

her best work seems to happen when that raw

children and did mosaic and canvas work that

creative curiosity is guided and informed by

caught the attention of the reputable Hal Mar-

her background with design. You can find the

cus gallery. In 2013, though?

best example of that on the steps leading up to the Hal Marcus residence, where the plu-

“There really couldn’t be a better time to be an artist in El Paso.”

rality of color palettes, materials, and shapes comprise steps that still formally relate to one another; her work here leads the eyes up and down the stairs in a far more interesting way

It’s not as though El Paso was ever a poor

than they would otherwise.

habitat for art—the compelling visual history as well as the cultural richness of El Paso

A mother of two who is employed full-time

is what attracted Baca to dig in here in the

(though not for long), Baca often paints on her

first place—but it’s never been this fertile

dining room table or in her garage. Often, it’s

for artists and interested patrons. From the

an emotional outlet. “Looking at some of my

Downtown Art Market every Saturday to the

paintings, someone who doesn’t understand

art walks that take place every last Thursday

abstracts will go, ‘OK, well, what does this

of each month to the festivals and children’s

mean?’ but really I never address them that

camps, Baca sees encouraging things devel-

way: Most of my paintings are about an emo-

oping at an increasing rate.

tion. It might have simply been the mood I

July, 2013

was in when I painted it and that might affect the kinds of colors I use or the types of brush strokes you can see. The paintings all have to do with things that are happening in my life, it’s a very personal exercise. Almost a journal, if you will.” Some of the feelings Baca describes are hard to distill from our perspective; others are directly communicative. One piece positions a sketch of a house opposite an obscured dictionary clipping of the noun place, elements that occur among comforting blues and greens. As in her mosaic art, Baca uses found objects, images, and text that act as denotative anchors against the texturally engaging use of color. Often this color is layered on, revealing overlaps and translucencies that give away interesting details about her creative process.

Like most artists in the twenty-first century, Baca rarely works without an iPod around. Music profoundly affects much of the art we see now and it also provides insight into the collagist nature of Baca’s paintings and mixed-media work. “Sometimes when I’m walking down the street and I find a bottle cap or an interesting piece of paper that was thrown away, I’ll find a way to work that into my art.” This is analogous to the way a producer will sample a fragment of an old noise, a misplaced relic of culture, into a loop or a hook that leads the way to something that sounds completely new. You breathe new life into an artifact and relate it to the now, thrilling people with something wholly original while offering new generations a window into forgotten wonders. Recontextualizing pieces of El Paso’s rich culture is something Baca has been doing diligently here for a decade—it’s rightfully affirming that more artists here are joining her in dusting it off.

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Ton of Linens we’ ve got you covered

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| By BOB NITZBURG, Photo Credit: UTEP ATHLETICS |

F

or most European high school basketball

ent. Her mom took her for

players, making the long trip to the Unit-

tryouts and the rest, as they

ed States alone is a little scary. Latvian

say, is history.

native and UTEP incoming freshman, Anete Steinberga, made

Steinberga made the conference

the 5,700-mile journey west,

uSA first team as a senior averaging over

and she was no exception.

15 points and seven rebounds a game. She is one of only four players in UTEP history with

“I was looking out the window of

more than 1,000 points and at least 570 re-

the plane and said, ‘what is this…

bounds. Off the court, Anete made the confer-

where are all the trees?’”

ence commissioners academic honor roll four times with a 3.37 GPA majoring in psychology.

The 6 foot 2 inch tall center wasted no time making her mark.

Although Steinberga was homesick through her junior year, she did take to El Paso’s cul-

championships in France. Anete was the leading rebounder and se-

As a member of the under 16, under 18,

ture. “I just love the Mexican food and the

and under 20 national teams, Anete made

welcoming feeling…the people are so nice, it

the conference USA all-freshmen team and

makes you want to come back.”

her team while playing

was so much more physical here than playing

Less than a month after Anete wrapped up

on the continent.

in Latvia, but by my senior year I really got

her college career, she signed a pro contract

comfortable on the court.”

to play in Belgium with Castors Braine. She

steadily improved her game every season. “It

hopes her parents and younger brother can

cond in scoring on against the best women

Her ultimate dream is to some day represent Latvia in the Olympics. In 2008 the Latvian

Anete’s mom Marita was a rower and dad

come see her play. After all, they made that

Ratis was both a rower and a swimmer. How-

same 5,700-mile trip to El Paso for her final

ever, they started their little girl off with, of

few games in March.

pics, and it was a big deal for such a

mother who noticed a newspaper article that

Steinberga made her national team last month,

for anything less… I just want to go to the

a basketball school was looking for new tal-

but Latvia lost all three games in the European

all things, dancing. It was Steinberga’s grand-

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women’s team made the Olymsmall country. “That’s my goal. I’m not going Olympics.”

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S PJuly, O R2013 TS

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When asked about her just graduated softspoken center, UTEP head coach Keitha Adams said, ”she represented uTEP in a first class manner…she will be very successful in her next journey.”

Don’t think for a minute that this gentle giant is all business. When I asked her what she knew about Belgium, where she will start her pro career, Anete said, “I hear they have great chocolate…. And I love chocolate!”

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T

By Felipa Solis

he answer is a definite "NO!" I am hoping for this summer's ver-

makes

sion of Moonrise Kingdom, but instead Tony Stark, Clark Kent,

Superman

the crew aboard the Enterprise, and even men suffering from

about lessons learned, in-

a ‘Hangover’ are larger than life, jump out from the screen, and

tergalactic battles and an all-star cast. Hen-

make not a single bit of difference when it comes to the quality of

ry Cavill is the new serious Superman with

the movie. Even the popcorn does not taste like it used to back in

many muscles and without the fun loving

the day! Once again, I’m left hoping for a film, even animated, where

spirit of Christopher Reeve. Simply put, and

a colorful script and engaging characters come to life.

not to give too much away, Krypton implodes

By The City

and young Kal-El, winds up in the Midwest to

The big talk before the emergence of "World

must overcome through their gifts of super

be raised by the Kents, played admirably by

War Z" (where Brad Pitt has appeared on

powers. This is why I like Tony Stark so much.

Diane Lane and, of all people, Kevin Costner.

every red carpet known to man to promote

He talks... you laugh... and you secretly want

The film goes back and forth a bit and that's

his World implosion film) is the all-new Su-

to be in his world. Superman has quite the

when one begins to look at the clock... a

perman, or shall I say, "Man of Steel," with

past, yet I believe that beyond the comic strip

problem when watching a film. Then, as Clark

an all-new Clark Kent. He is indeed hand-

panels, mild-mannered Clark Kent is much

Kent, the mild-mannered reporter for the Dai-

some enough, but did he make his mark on

more charming when he winks, and fumbles

ly Planet, he manages to show off his might

celluloid forever?

and is "everyman" until he's not. Then, out

when no one is looking. We are introduced

from the phone booth comes the "Man of

to Lois Lane, played by Amy Adams, who is

"Man of Steel" - There is something to

Steel" ready to save the world sans kryptonite.

interested in Mr. Kent for a variety of reasons.

be said about a brooding Superhero. Yes, they

The new Zach Snyder film is sans smiles. As

The able-assistant always deep down loves

all have unusual pasts and darkness that they

Hollywood takes on another DC hero, Snyder

the superhero, but even in this new version,

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July, 2013

E N T E R TA I N M E N T

Superman has quite the past, yet I believe that beyond the comic strip panels, mildmannered Clark Kent is much more charming when he winks, and fumbles and is "everyman" until he's not. the chemistry is missing. Yet again, the familiar plotlines were just not there and I'm a creature of habit when it comes to Superhero films. I liked the beginning of the film; the storyline regarding the young hero was interesting. However, it quickly became confusing, and even his father, played by Russell Crowe, becomes somewhat of an Obi-Wan for his son.

Not sure about that either. Then there are the endless battles with Michael Shannon as the villainous Zod, whereby I was ready for the credits to roll. Will the film win big at the box office? Of course it will, but as Supermen franchises go, it will be the fodder for sequels.

There is really one word that

July, 2013

sums it all up for me with this film...there were no real rhythms here, no lessons of truth and

a n d justice.

It's 3-D all the way...and I like to have a little more fun when watching a movie.

Remember, every Saturday at 2:00 p.m. throughout the summer, a very wonderful Foreign Film is presented by the El Paso Museum of Art. I have had the great privilege of introducing each film, and may I say that the choices are triumphant. From the Argentinian classic, "Valentin," to the Academy Award winning performance by Adrien Brody in "The Pianist," it is a wonderful way to enjoy two art forms and all the while feel good as you beat the summer heat. Enjoy.

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July, 2013

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Written and Photographed By: LUIS MIRANDA JR.

Spl ashes In

THE GARDEN One of El Paso’s prestigious downtown restaurants is making a big splash this summer. The Garden Restaurant & Bar first opened its doors in 2009 in downtown El Paso. The restaurant has become a superb spot for families to enjoy lunch or dinner, and ideal for couples to plan that perfect date.

Due to its location, the restaurant has also become a prominent spot for businessmen and women to meet for lunch or happy hour. Sure, The Garden is known for its upscale dining, but the bar/club has also become one of the hottest clubs in the Union Plaza entertainment district, bringing some of the hottest acts and DJs from all over the world. They’ve had acts like Late Night Alumni, a US “house” group, to DJ Eric Prydz, a Swedish DJ. With the 2013 summer approaching, The Garden Restaurant & Bar went right to work on their newest and biggest project for the year- to build a pool in their outdoor patio. The vision was to create what is known in bigger cities as a “day club restaurant & bar”, a first in El Paso. A local designer named Charles Austin designed the layout of the pool; he currently has his own design company called Charles Austin Design Studio (CADS). Austin was hired by The Garden and given guidelines to build a pool that could be covered and utilized as a floor when needed. Austin had the freedom to use his own color scheme, type of wood and custom canapé designs. The construction of the pool started in February and was ready by midMay. Traditional lumber was used for the canapés, day beds and the pool top cover.

It was treated with a stain treatment to give the illusion of antique lumber. Talking to Austin, he stated, “There really were no obstacles when designing and building of the pool, The Garden was extremely cooperative.” Austin also said he really enjoyed working on the project because he was able to contribute a lot of ideas that he has seen in Los Angeles and other big cities. Co-owners of The Garden, Octavio Gomez and Nick Salgado, both agreed Austin was great at being able to bring all their ideas together, translate it on to paper, and turn those sketches into a reality.

127

SPLASHES IN THE GARDEN

July, 2013

People say it’s like New York or it’s like Las Vegas but we didn’t bring this pool to be compared to other cities. El Paso can stand on its own. We brought it because we love El Paso and we want to bring new and great things to our community,

What inspired this change? Gomez and Salgado said the

couldn’t have thought of any better place for this ad-

thought of a pool has always been lingering within them,

dition, it’s centrally located to the train station down-

but they were waiting for the right time. The two of them

town as well as the soon to be El Paso AAA Ball Park

have seen similar day clubs in other cities and with El

Stadium.” The duo went on to say that aside from the

Paso growing everyday, the two wanted The Garden to

excellent service and food, they really enjoyed the new

grow with the city. “People say it’s like New York or it’s like

scenery that the restaurant has created and that they

Las Vegas but we didn’t bring this pool to be compared to

definitely will be returning.

other cities. El Paso can stand on its own. We brought it because we love El Paso and we want to bring new and

With the revitalization of downtown still continuing with

great things to our community,” said Salgado. Many would

the Plaza, and the soon to be El Paso AAA Ball Park Sta-

agree that El Paso is a booming city and change is inevita-

dium (scheduled to finish in 2014), it almost seems as

ble. The Garden’s new pool symbolizes El Paso becoming

though this change The Garden has made couldn’t have

its own big city. “Since the renovation we have seen an

come at a better time. Bringing something new and in-

increase in business across the board from people dining

novative to El Paso that has only been seen in large cities

to people coming to enjoy cocktails and the pool. This has

has created a big milestone for the Sun City and will make

taken The Garden to the next level with people enjoying

people want to come to El Paso. The Garden has always

the new night life and the regular dining crowd just look-

aimed to reinvent itself and it has done just that with its

ing to eat by the pool.” Said Gomez.

pool. With The Garden’s increased business of its restaurant and new day club, we can only expect this to help

128

Marguerite Caruthers and David Yenshaw, two friends

grow our city economically and physically. Who’s to say,

that recently dined at The Garden for their first time,

The Garden might have just started a new growing trend

said they really enjoyed their experience saying, “We

for competing clubs or restaurants in the El Paso area.

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July, 2013

The City Agenda July, 2013

Must see 4

Fourth of July Country Picnic

JULY 2-31

El Paso Diablos Baseball 2 JULY 2-AUG. 10

'Viva El Paso!'

The summertime pageant returns to McKelligon Canyon Amphitheater, 1500 McKelligon Drive, for its 36th season Fridays and Saturdays. The outdoor musical extravaganza highlights the four major cultures of the region: Native American, Spanish Conquistadors, Mexican and Western American. Show times and tickets TBA. Info: viva-ep.org

The American Association minor league team's regular home game time is 7:05 p.m. (Sundays at 6:05 p.m.) at Cohen Stadium in Northeast El Paso.

Info: 755-2000 or diablos.com July 2-5: Laredo Lemurs July 6-9: Grand Prairie Air Hogs July 18-21: Laredo Lemurs July 29-31: Wichita Wingnuts

4

5

JULY 5- SEPT. 27

JULY

Alfresco! Fridays

El Paso Wind Symphony

The 11th Season of free outdoor concerts are at 6 p.m. At Arts Festival Plaza in downtown El Paso. Info: 534-0665 or alfrescofridays.com

The El Paso Wind Symphony Orchestra will be celebrating the Fourth at Chamizal National Memorial, 800 S. San Marcial, from 7:30 to 9:30 p.m. The night will feature a host of patriotic songs complete with fireworks. Admission is free.

Info: elpasoartsandculture.org

5 JULY

R.G.T Live! Open Mic Singers and songwriters of all ages are encouraged to come out to the RGT Live!

Open Mic night from 6:30 to 10 p.m. at the Rio Grande Theatre in downtown Las Cruces. Acoustic musicians, singers and songwriters will compete to be part of the showcase that proves Las Cruces has talent.

Info: www.riograndetheatre.com

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Celebrate the birth of our nation at La Vina's 11th annual Fourth of July Country Picnic from 11:30 a.m. to 6 p.m. at La Vina Winery, 4201 S. Hwy. 28. Come out for the whole day and enjoy live music, badminton, croquet, a water slide, and of course, plenty of wine. K & B Barbeque will also be serving hot dogs and hamburgers, but feel free to bring your own picnic.

Info: lavinawinery.com/events.html

July 5: Aztec Zodia – Jazz, Funk, Latin July 12: Magiztral Sonora – Cumbia, Balada July 19:Toll Booth Willie – Ska, 80's Pop-rock July 26: Frontera Bugalu – Latin Variety

5

Stock Car Racing and Fireworks Show Want to see the latest in Stock Car excitement?

Don't miss the Stock Car Racing and Fireworks Show at the El Paso Speedway Park, 14751 Marina Blvd. at 7:45 p.m. Admission is $12 for adults, $9 for seniors and military and children 5 and under are free.

Info: 791-8749 or epspeedwaypark.com

THE CIT Y AGENDA

July, 2013

5

JULY 6-27

6

Dancing in the City

JULY 5-AUG. 2

Movies on the Lawn

The fourth annual outdoor dance concerts series takes place from 7 to 10 p.m. Saturdays at the Arts Festival Plaza and features local and regional performers. Dance lessons are always from 7 to 8 p.m. with the dance party beginning right after.

Info: 541-4481 July 6: Sorry About Your Sister (Rockabilly) July 13: Yam (Country) July 20: Samba Society (Samba) July 27: Ivon Ulibarri & Cafe Mocha (Salsa)

July 5:

The University of Texas at El Paso is hosting a Saturday movie night for the summer months. Admission is free, but the university will also be offering a $5 combo deal complete with a hot dog, small soda and popcorn.

National Treasure at Glory Field July 12: Wreck it Ralph at University Field July 19: Harry and the Hender sons at Glory Field July 26: Willy Wonka and the Chocolate Factory at University Field For info: 747-5711 or sa.utep. edu/union/moviesonthelawn/

19 5 6

JULY 11-AUG. 29

JULY

Leopoldo Cavazos Jr. Memorial 5K Run/1 Mile Fun Walk Get your running shoes on for one 5K you're not going to want to miss. The 5K/1 Mile Walk will be held at Ascarate Park at 7:30 a.m. Early registration is $20, $25 dollars on the day of race day and teams of 10 or more pay $15 per team member. Register online at raceadventuresunlimited.com/07-062013/Leopoldo-Cavazos-Jr-Memorial-5K-Run-1-Mile-Fun-Walk/729

Must see

14

Cool Canyon Nights Enjoy Cool Canyon Nights of live music at the McKelligon Canyon Amphitheater from 6:15 p.m. to 9 p.m. Thursday nights throughout the summer.

Admission is free. For info: kisselpaso.com/events-elpaso/cool-canyon-nights-atmckelligon-canyon-2013/23may-2013/2013-05-30/

Must see JULY 14-AUG. 11

July 11th: Prime July 18th: Billy Townes July 25th: The Trailer Band August 1st: Matt Hires August 8th: Brown Betty August 15th: Ribo Flavin’ August 22nd: Team Havana August 29th: Fungi Mungle

21

JULY

Music Under the Stars

Mission Trail Art Market

The 30th summer concert series features local and international performers from 7:30 to 9:30 p.m. on Sundays at the Chamizal National Memorial amphitheater, 800 S. San Marcial. Admission is free.

Info: 541-4481 or elpasoartsandculture.org

Experience culture at the Mission Trail Art Market at San Elizario Historic District from 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. Shop for delicate pottery, vibrant jewelry, timeless home accents, or seasonal decorations.

There will also be unique paintings, sculptures and photography.

Sweet and savory treats will also be offered. Admission is free.

Info: 851-0093 or MissionTrailArtMarket.com

July 14: Morray Sochat & The Special 20's (Swing) July 28: Fungi Mungle (Disco) Jenni Dale Lord (Americana)

JULY

2nd Annual Dimas Vasquez Golf Tournament Calling all Golf enthusiasts, come compete in the 2nd Annual Dimas Vasquez Golf Tournament at the Underwood Golf Complex at 3200 Coe Ave. Registration begins at 7 a.m. with a shotgun start at 8 a.m. and costs $125 per player and will feature a four man scramble, all green fees, golf cart rental, two drink tickets, lunch and awards ceremony. Proceeds go to the Special Olympics, so come out and support a great cause.

For more info, contact Marsha Baray, 533-8229 or sotz.org/ vasquez.

Zin Valle Vineyards Free Music Sundays. 1 to 4 p.m.

Info: 877-4544 or zinvalle.com July 15th: Dan Lambert and the Double Drum Trio July 29th: Dusty Low 131

27 JULY

Arrival: The World's Greatest Abba Show Together the original musicians and the El Paso Symphony Orchestra are uniting to bring the city of El Paso ABBA's best songs. Beginning at 8 p.m. at the Plaza Theatre, this show will knock your socks off with the best ABBA hits.

Info: 532-3776

132

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Here at M!X, we have every luxurious service you could ever want or ask for. Our hair salon, nail salon, spa and sauna, and third story restaurant and viewing terrace are all meant for one thing, making you feel extraordinary. Don’t delay and call today and book your appointment now!

4201 Camelot Heights Dr. by N. Mesa | El Paso, Texas 79912 | (915) 351-0032 | mixsalonspa.com | Like us on Facebook!

July, 2013

WHEN IS TAKING ON DEBT A GOOD IDEA? From the perspective of a former banker | By AGUSTIN MONTES, PARTNER & DIRECTOR OF CREDIT AND DEBT MANAGEMENT |

H

elping your business grow and expand has been one of the fundamental goals of any business owner. The answer to our question above is sometimes not so simple. If a business owner wants to increase capacity; add new, more efficient equipment; or leverage an asset to increase working

capital there are two ways of doing this. The first is by infusing their own personal cash or adding equity investors. The second, and the topic of this article, is to utilize debt. The benefits of utilizing debt over adding additional investors are that you have a scheduled payback period, the interest expense is tax deductible and the ownership of the business does not change.

Once the decision to add debt or obtain a loan

infused into the loan? Banks very seldom, if

the company’s profitability, cash flow and

has been made there are a few details that you

ever, lend 100% toward any loan request. The

most importantly its ability to pay the loan

can address before you speak with your banker:

amounts that are required as down payments

back. In addition to the business financial

vary greatly depending on the type of loan and

statement, you will almost always have to

1. Have a clear & concise reason for wanting the

the lending institution. So, be prepared to put

provide three years of personal tax returns as

loan. Banks want to know that you have done

down somewhere between 10% to as much

well as a personal financial statement. The

your homework regarding your loan request.

as 50% depending on the type of transaction.

bank typically has a proprietary form that they

Ask yourself the following questions:

will want you to fill out. These documents will

• What will I use the money for?

3. Have all of your financial statements in

be necessary because the bank will want you

• How will it positively affect my business’ gross

order. Nothing raises red flags quicker than

to personally guaranty the loan on behalf of

sales and more importantly profitability?

poor financial reporting. A bank views finan-

the business.

• What is my contingency plan if things do

cial statements as the mechanism business owners should be using to gauge the financial

4. Allow your banker to “kick the tires.” If at

health. As you prepare for a loan request, your

all possible, have you banker and key deci-

banker will want to examine your company’s

sion makers from the bank tour your business

last three fiscal year-end financial statements

and facilities so that they can see firsthand

2. How much of the company’s cash is avail-

and tax returns plus an interim for the current

where the loan proceeds will be used. Also,

able to use as a down payment or as equity

period. This will allow the bank to measure

make sure that they have a clear understand-

not go as forecasted?

• What other sources can I draw from to repay the loan if needed?

134

www.thecitymagazineelp.com

July, 2013

ing regarding the operations of your business. This will help make the loan request tangible when it is presented for approval.

5. Lastly, do your

There are many factors that go into the decision of funding a company through debt when viewed through the eyes of a bank or other lending institution.

However, another way to access a loan in a much more streamline method could be to utilize a loan collateralized through your investment account.

The

homework regard-

process is simple

ing your banking

and it enables the

options. Obviously, it is always best to begin

borrower a very competitive rate as well as

the process with your current bank. They

little to no loan fees. Another benefit is that

should already have a good understanding of

there is not a preset payment amount. This

your business operations and financial health.

can be extremely important at the beginning

They may also have a good amount of the

of the loan because it gives the business time

required paperwork on file, if you already have

to utilize the funds, whether it was for a new

a loan with the bank. Additionally, be aware of

piece of equipment or to make improvements

the current interest rate environment to make

to its existing business operations. There is

sure the pricing of your loan is in line with the

no prepayment penalty and the complete ap-

current market rates.

proval process can be done in a relatively quick manner. Interest expenses are not tax de-

As you can see, there are many factors that go

ductible. (This option should be discussed

into the decision of funding a company through

with your licensed wealth advisor in order

debt when viewed through the eyes of a bank

to determine if you qualify and any other

or other lending institution.

possible questions you may have).

www.thecitymagazineelp.com

Agustin Montes

Partner & Director of Credit and Debt Management Strategic Wealth Advisors Terrace Gardens Office Park 600 Sunland Park, Building One, Ste 100 El Paso, Texas 79912 (915) 532-8885 Office (915) 842-9532 fax amontes@sw-advisors.com www.sw-advisors.com Views and opinions expressed are those of Agustin Montes and are subject to change based on market and other conditions.

The tax information contained herein is general in nature, is provided for informational purposes only, and should not be construed as legal or tax advice. Always consult an attorney or tax professional regarding your specific legal or tax situation.

Securities offered through Investors Capital Corporation, Member FINRA/SIPC. Advisory Services, if applicable, offered through Investors Capital Advisory 6 kimball lane, lynnfield, MA 01940, (800) 949-1422

135

MEDICAL

July, 2013

TIRED OF LOOKING AT YOUR SCAR? Scar revision is surgery to improve or reduce the appearance of scars | By MARCO A. GONZALEZ, M.D |

MARCO A. GONZALEZ, M.D. 5407 N. Mesa El Paso, Texas 79912 (915) 845-3223 (FACE) www.plasticsurgeryelpaso.net

Scar Revision

Hypertrophic Scars

Scarring from traumatic injury

Similar to keloid scars, hyper-

or previous C-section surgery

trophic scars are typically red,

or cosmetic surgery can have

thick, and raised clusters of scar

a dramatic effect on an indi-

tissue. Unlike the keloid type of

vidual’s self-esteem. Dr. Marco

scar, hypertrophic scars respect

A. Gonzalez, at Plastic Surgery

the wound boundaries.

Envy Aesthetic Center, is highly Contractures

trained and skilled in methods which can dramatically improve the appearance of a scar and minimize its visibility.

revision procedures are designed to make scarring as imperceptible as possible.

to scars that pull the edges of skin together. Often resulting from burns or other injuries that result in excessive skin loss,

Types of Scars

Dr. Marco A. Gonza-

Contracture is the term ascribed

There are a number of different types of scars

contractures can affect nearby muscles, and

that can be treated through various surgical

tendons and ultimately restrict mobility.

and laser techniques to diminish their appearance. Scar revision procedures will depend

Scar revision surgery should typically be under-

lez, at Plastic Surgery

on the type of scar you have, as well as your

gone during the first six months after the initial

Envy Aesthetic Center,

age, history of prior surgery, location of the

scar has formed; however, the scar can still be

scar, genetics, treatment and medications

treated after this period. Dr. Marco A. Gonzalez

is highly trained and

you have undergone, and nutrition. Types of

will discuss all aspects of scar revision surgery

scars include:

with you at your initial consultation and address

skilled in methods

any questions or concerns you may have.

which can dramatical-

Keloid Scars

ly improve the appear-

This type of scar is characterized by thick, itchy,

Recovery from Scar Revision

and puckered clusters of scar tissue that grow

Recovery details will depend on the type of

around the edges of a wound or surgical in-

scar you have and the treatment you have

cision. Often red or darker in color than the

undergone. There will always be a scar left after

surrounding skin, keloid scars are a product of

an operation; however, scar revision procedures

collagen produced by the body after a wound

are designed to make scarring as imperceptible

has healed.

as possible.

ance of a scar and minimize its visibility.

www.thecitymagazineelp.com

137

| By Grace The Psychic Lady |

The Signs in Love

Do you ever wonder what makes your love interest tick? Below are a few traits of each zodiac sign to help you gain a better understanding of their romantic DNA.

Aries the Ram does not take “No” for an

keep you on your toes and guessing. You

Scorpio the Scorpion seldom reveals their own

won’t be bored.

hearts, but when they do they have a passion like no other sign. Very romantic, charismatic,

Cancer the Crab finds it hard to express their

magnetic, and the most sexual of the signs.

feelings out of fear of being hurt. They have very soft sides and can hang on tightly. They

Sagittarius the Archer loves excitement, pas-

are very cautious in giving their hearts away.

sion, and romance as long as it is all fun. Commitment? Not so fast ~ that is a sure way to

Leo the Lion is very generous and giving

chase them away. They are all about fun!

when in love. They enjoy being in love and are very loyal in relationships, which can make it

Capricorn the Goat may seem reserved

very difficult ending a relationship with them.

initially but once you get past that you will

answer. When they are in love they go for it

see they have a deep love and strong loyalty.

full speed ahead. They love passion and ex-

Virgo the Virgin seeks the perfect mate and

They ride out the rough times and are very

citement. If the fires don’t burn they will not

enjoys the pleasures of intimacy. They love

protective.

stick around.

to take care and provide for their loved one

Taurus the Bull loves security and stability.

no matter what it takes, they will go out of

Aquarius the Water Bearer is independent and

their way.

needs a partner that understands this. With

Romance and love are one and the same and

the right partner they are constant and true. At

they are very sensual. They will always be

Libra the Scales loves to be loved and ad-

there for you and expect the same in return.

mired and are very giving in return. They

times they can seem aloof, even in love.

are very romantic and flirtatious as well.

Pisces the Fish is very sensitive and look at

Gemini the sign of the Twins can be charm-

They love an atmosphere of beauty to

the inner soul of their partners. Truly search-

ing, witty, and genuinely interested, but

match their feelings.

ing for their soul mates~ looking for the most

keeping that interest is difficult. They will 138

profound love possible. www.thecitymagazineelp.com

July, 2013

The Italian Kitchen West 450 Thorn Ave. | 915.842.0775 theitaliankitchenelp.com The Italian kitchen West uses the finest homemade, gourmet ingredients to make your dining experience a real pleasure. Chicken Marsala, a local favorite for many years, is one of the finest Italian chicken dishes on our menu! It’s a real southwest food flavor fusion of Mexican-style green chile chicken wrapped in our world-famous pasta and topped with gourmet cheese. Of course never forget our signature dish, Meat Lasagna, a true blue ribbon dish of the Italian Kitchen for many years. The Italian Kitchen West caters large or small events and offers a private party room.

The Rib Hut 2612 N. Mesa | 915.532.7427 ribhutelpaso.com Famed for its slow-cooked, mouth-watering barbeque. Try the big, beefy ribs or baby-backed, mesquite-smoked pork ribs. The brisket is always lean, smoked, and thinly sliced. The sausage is spiced perfectly and always juicy. The chicken fried steak is the best in the south west. Rib Hut also offers a tempting selection of steaks deliciously grilled to your liking, as well as the half-pound Angus steak burger, which is served with your choices of toppings and ice cold beer.

The atmosphere is relaxing and the staff is friendly. The Rib Hut can cater any size party or event.

Come see why Rib Hut has been El Paso’s favorite.

ITALIANS 5380 N. Mesa St. Suite 110 | 915.400.4550 www.italianselpaso.com

ITALIANS

Italians offers authentic cuisine with a friendly and elegant environment for all occasions. We offer a delicious lunch menu ranging from $7-10. Enjoy Pasta al Pesto Italian pasta with a botanical blend of basilico, garlic,olive oil and pine nuts sauce all paired with $4 pours of house wine every day during lunch. Dinner offers the romantic setting for a perfect night out with that special someone.

Chef Keeley’s masterful creations and beautiful presentation will certainly impress your pallet.

Made fresh every day, nothing canned, Italians is the experience. Italians does it fresher!

139

The City Magazine JUNE Issue Launch Party at SUZU RESTAURANT | Photographed by MARIO ARIZPE

WAYNE HILTON'S HERMOSOS HUESOS Photographed by ROBERT CORRAL

ART TO FEED THE SOUL

EL PASOANS FIGHTING HUNGER FOODBANK Photographed by LOUIS AGUIRRE

DRY, BLOW-DRY BAR GRANDE OPENING PARTY Photographed by MARIO ARIZPE

SHARON GAN BIRTHDAY PARTY Photographed by JUNIOR MIRANDA

TRIPLE-A BASEBALL BALLPARK GROUNDBREAKING Photographed by MARIO ARIZPE

1ST ANNUAL GREAT FUTURES GOLF CLASSIC BENEFITING BOYS & GIRLS CLUBS OF EL PASO at The Coronado Country Club | Photographed by Joe Louis Aguirre

THE JOB CONNECTION NEW VISCOUNT LOCATION GRAND OPENING Photographed by Junior Miranda