The City Magazine El Paso April 2019

Bowie High School

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Treat Your Ears...

April's New Music

From Kenya to El Paso

UTEP Students 81 APRIL 2019 PRICE $2.95

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April, 2019

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Editor's Note: In our March 2019 story "Healing With Paws for Love" we inaccurately mentioned the program R.E.A.D. when it should have been noted as "Read With Me," a program through Pet Partners. We apologize for this error.

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contents

April, 2019

APRIL 2019 VOLUME 81

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32

IN THIS ISSUE: SPIRITUALITY...56

20

The Oso Good Way BOWIE HIGH’S STUDENT-RUN FOOD TRUCK By: BRENDA CASTEÑEDA

26

26

HIS PREROGATIVE...94

Features

32

TRAVEL…96

38

Utep’s Kenyan Runners WINNING ON THE TRACK AND IN THE CLASSROOM

Chuck Ruhmann TACKLING A NEED IN THE COMMUNITY HEAD-ON

The El Paso Passage THE CITY’S NEWEST ART INSTALLATION

By: HENRY CRAVER

By: ZAK HANSEN

By: HOPE ALEGRE

Here and Now 50 The Juárez Walking Tour REDISCOVER EL PASO’S SISTER CITY By: HENRY CRAVER

10

62 The Borderless Giving Fund THE GIFT OF WALKING

68 Hidden Gem BENNY FRANKS’ BORDER-CAJUN FUSION

By: HOPE ALEGRE

By: KRISTIN BROWN

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April, 2019

THE

HOSPITALS OF PROVIDENCE SIERRA CAMPUS, IS NOW A

COMPREHENSIVE STROKE CENTER.

The Hospitals of Providence

COMPREHENSIVE STROKE CENTER SIERRA CAMPUS

TAKE A QUIZ To find out if you may be at risk for stroke, take our quick Health Risk Assessment at www.TheHospitalsOfProvidence.com

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The Hospitals of Providence Sierra Campus, 1625 Medical Center Drive, El Paso, TX 79902

11

l Paso is growing, that much is sure. Our burgeoning health and education sectors are driving our economy forward, pulling in talent from around the world and making sure gifted locals stay put. According to the United States Department of Housing and Urban Development, the county’s employment growth is expected to average 1.9 percent over the next three years. More jobs means more people, and people need housing. El Paso’s real estate market has finally shaken the 2008 recession off its back and houses are selling like hotcakes. In such times of growth, potential buyers often feel pressure to make big moves and to make them quick. The feeling is understandable, but rushed investments are always unwise—even if they sometimes workout. It’s important that potential homebuyers and sellers tap into El Paso’s plethora of knowledgeable experts to make prudent, responsible decisions.

Realtors wear many hats and it’s easy to take all they do for granted. Sure, you can prep a home and the internet makes listing easier than ever. However, taking into account your job and many other responsibilities, could you realistically do it all as efficiently as a good real estate agent? The answer is probably no. The stats don’t lie: a 2017 study by the National Association of Realtors found that FSBO sellers get an average of $190,000, while agent-assisted sellers sold for an average of $250,000. That’s a $60,000 difference.

Paying that 6 percent commission fee might be the best financial decision you ever make.

In a similar vein, home builders and contractors exist for a reason. They have the knowledge and networks to make you happy, and fast too. If it were really that easy to build a home, or completely renovate that Sunset Heights fixer-upper, everyone would do it. It’s extremely hard and the opportunity-cost almost certainly doesn’t make sense unless you’re a seasoned vet.

Are you scared? Don’t be. El Paso has some of the best home pros in the country and they want to help you. You’d be wise to let them.

The entrepreneurial spirit that’s taken over our city is infectious. The bug pays no heed to age, socio-economic or gender lines. Take Bowie High’s food truck, for example. A group of kids came up with the idea to start a catering business, found investors and made it happen all on their own—seriously. Their story is just one of many that has me, and the whole team, so excited about this issue.

Enjoy the magazine. This one is a real treat.

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April, 2019

2017 2016

2015 2014 2013

www.thecitymagazineelp.com C B ES T C O S M ETI CE CTI SURG E RY P R A

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April, 2019

The Classroom Fund

W BROCK BENJAMIN BENJAMIN LAW FIRM Creativity for your defense

(915) 412-5858 747 E. San Antonio Ste. 203 14 El Paso, Tx 79901

| By: HOPE ALEGRE |

hether they teach in the city, rural

“As a Classroom Fund 2017 grantee, I received

areas or suburbs, we see educators,

Breakout Boxes, which are an activity-based

more often than not, reaching into

learning system that encourages students

their own pockets to cover costs

to develop critical thinking, collaborative,

that limited funds cannot. With stagnant

creative and communication skills within

pay and budget cuts in schools, there is

a learning topic. These materials are an

also never a promise for reimbursement.

invaluable part of minimizing traditional

Teachers find it necessary, however, to equip

lecture time and creating interactive activities

their classrooms and provide students with

and discussions that otherwise would be

all the essential materials so they never miss

difficult to replicate without their generous

out on any experiences.

donation,” said Heather Graham, an eighth grade teacher at St. Clement’s Parish School.

In an effort to get students the assistance they need, projects like The Classroom Fund

All educators who spend 75 percent of their

offer financial support to full-time educators

time with students and have requests with

in the El Paso and Las Cruces area. This

a total cost of $1,000 or less are eligible to

nonprofit organization is run through the El

apply for funds. The Classroom Fund will

Paso Community Foundation and has been

start accepting requests on April 1, 2019,

up and running since 2011. It is funded in

and continue all the way until the deadline on

partnership with Price’s Give ’Em Five Fund,

June 10, 2019. Grantees will be announced

KVIA ABC 7 and the El Paso Times. The fund

the week of July 1, 2019, and all requests are

is open to both private and public institutions

funded based on merit and funds available.

and most kinds of staff, including teachers,

The Classroom Fund just asks for a simple

librarians, guidance counselors and school

reporting on the use of materials through

nurses. The funds are intended for the

either photo, video or a written letter.

purpose of supporting teachers and providing requested classroom supplies.

For more information on how to apply, please visit theclassroomfund.org/how_it_works www.thecitymagazineelp.com

April, 2019

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April, 2019

Behind the scenes during a City Magazine event...

I thought I was the only one wearing green!

Ay ay!

Boujie boujie whose the boujiest of ‘em all?

Make sense?

Henry Craver Editorial Assistant 216

Paulina Gines Graphic Design Assistant

Ooh, that would make a good story.

I’m just here to serve looks.

Biyanca Gomez Social Media Intern

Joe Rivera Development, Sales, Marketing

Andy Martinez Graphic Designer

Kim North Managing Editor

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April, 2019

What goes on in the minds of the team.

Calm down, we know how to throw a party.

Hey good-looking!

You get an award and you get an award and you get You think I’m an award! harmless, think again.

Shelley Mozelle Editor-in-Chief

Guess what part of my body I self tanned?

I just need a drink.

Oscar Acosta Chaz Wilson Advertising Executive Genevieve Frias Kristin Brown Senior Advertising Executive Advertising Executive Inside Sales www.thecitymagazineelp.com Event Coordinator Employee of The Year

Marisol Bustillos Advertising Executive 173

CONT RIBU TORS Andy Martinez

April, 2019

Pablo Delgadillo

Elaine Gordon

Brenda Castañeda

Jenn Márquez

Michelle Cromer

Jesse Maynes

Ladonna Apodoca

Sarra Valenzuela

Art Moreno, Jr.

Grace The Psychic Lady

Kristin Brown

Henry Craver

Zak Hensen

Marie Moore

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April, 2019

The Medical Issue EL PASO/LAS CRUCES HOME & DESIGN MAGAZINE

Bowie High School

so GoOod!

100 Trost years & OVER

JUSTICE for the PEOPLE El Paso’s

Treat Your Ears...

issue

Trost Turning Trash Into

April's New Music

of Radford

WITH A MODERN TWIST

Nevena Art beyond the Call of Duty Christi e iter ranea_n a_stled CM the art of

CONTEMPORARY The Hospitals of Providence ICU

Top Attorneys

minimalism

It’s Your World Project

Off-Roading!

London Fashion Week travel to europe a must see

Elyse Simons

ANIMAL-ASSISTED meets south west What’s THERAPY Trending?

Spring fashion

APRIL 2019 PRICE $2.95

Why it Works

From Kenya to El Paso

UTEP Students 81

Move

on the

25 60 59

80 march 2019 PRICE $2.95

SUBSCRIBE NOW John Horta

Hope Alegre

Name: Address/Apt. Phone: City/State/Zip: Email: THE CITY & THE CITY SPACES $25 (one year)

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April, 2019

H

igh school is supposed to prepare teenagers for adulthood. Too often, however, traditional course syllabuses fail to give students the necessary skills needed to succeed outside of

the classroom. Progressive educators around the world have taken notice and begun offering practical, hands-on classes.

One of the most innovative examples is Bowie High School’s Oso Good Express.

Part of Bowie’s culinary arts program, the Oso Good Express is a professional food truck and catering service run by students under the supervision of Chef Christopher Puga. The idea of a

20

Photo by: John Horta

April, 2019

| By: BRENDA CASTAÑEDA |

Teaching Skills the

“ Oso Good” ay W food truck was conceived by the senior class of 2017. In less

than a week, the students raised more than $50,000 dollars to

purchase their truck. They made contacts with businesses and organizations, asking them to buy into their initiative that would

incorporate the existing Bowie Jardin. Whole Foods Market was

one of the first businesses to support this project, matching student collected funds. With the truck and necessary funding secured, Bowie hired Chef Puga to see the project through.

Chef Puga, whose resumé includes a long list of prestigious

posts in the restaurant industry, was pretty much given free reign with the truck. His plan for the program included teaching

the students not only food preparation and cooking, but also the business aspect of running a truck—the project is part of

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April, 2019

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April, 2019

the school’s Business Academy, after all. The Oso Good Express (“oso” is Spanish for bear, the school’s mascot) has blossomed into an award-winner for this young team. They won the El Paso Hispanic Chamber of Commerce Entrepreneurial Spirit of the Year Award in 2018 and the El Paso Del Norte Lions Club Inspirational Leader Award in 2019.

In addition to the academic and community accolades, the Oso Good Express has proven to be a successful venture from a business perspective too. The first customer was Sundt Construction, which hired them to cater an event just two weeks after they had gotten started. The team prepared a simple yet delicious menu of hot dogs and hamburgers. From that first request, the catering has taken off into a whole different direction that now includes fine dining. Their event track record now includes luncheons for comedian Gabriel “Fluffy” Iglesias, the Paso del Norte Foundation and some of the school’s out-of-town guest speakers. “Our success has been through the true meaning word of mouth,” said Chef Puga. It’s true, awareness of the food truck and catering business has exploded, turning Bowie’s Culinary Arts Program into a go-to caterer.

Chef Puga and the community’s enthusiasm is matched by that of the students. Senior Stephanie Villalobos, a second-year student of Puga’s, said it had led her to pursue a career in culinary arts, with www.thecitymagazineelp.com

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T e a c h i n g S k i l l s t h e “ O s o G o o d ” Way

April, 2019

dreams of opening up a business someday.

Good Sauce,” for example, is a special add-

the south side campus. The formal affair

She pointed to Chef Puga as a positive role

on created by senior Alma Pecina. The spicy

will be the first time that Chef Puga sees

model: “He recognizes our commitment.

condiment was designed for customers who

his students plan every aspect of a job: the

He is very interactive with the students. He

wanted a kick of heat in their meals. After the

menu, table layout, the red-carpet entrance

opens our eyes. He guides us.”

debut of that creation, the sauce was tasted by

and all the evening’s activities. “No one is

a few teachers and was requested next on a

going to hold our hands, we want to leave a

Jacob Gonzalez, a senior and first year

burger, and that is when it really took off. Pecina

legacy,” explained one participating student.

culinary student, gave a similar report. He

created the sauce and has perfected it every

said that the program is setting a precedent,

way possible. However, her recipe is top secret!

The 2019-20 school year will see a new state-of-the-art kitchen, lecture room and

doing things no other high school is doing. He mentioned having heard that other schools

Both Villalobos and Gonzalez are captains for

hospitality/dining facility all be unveiled on

were exploring the food truck business and

the upcoming, first ever fundraiser, the Blue

the campus. The hopes and dreams of the

that makes him proud to be part of such a

Diamond Gala, that will be held April 20 in

students at Bowie High School are becoming

successful program.

the school’s Nolan Richardson Gymnasium.

reality. Together with Chef Puga, these

Villalobos and Gonzalez each have a team of

young adults have turned their high school

Part of what excites the students so much is

ten students who have been planning what

into one of the city’s gastronomic stalwarts.

seeing their ideas put into practice. The “Oso

is becoming a much talked about event for

Their futures are certainly looking bright.

24

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April, 2019

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April, 2019

Photo courtesy of UTEP athletics 26

On theTrack to April, 2019

Success | By: HENRY CRAVER |

Photo courtesy of UTEP athletics

27

On the Track to Success

F 28

April, 2019

Photo courtesy of UTEP athletics or over a decade, UTEP’s cross country

Lilian Koech and Antony Kosgei arrived at UTEP in 2015

and distance running programs have

on athletic scholarships. Lilian specializes in distances

excelled under the leadership of Paul

from 800 meters to 5 kilometers, while Antony competes

Ereng. The coach, a former University

in races ranging from a mile to 10,000 meters. They

of Virginia star and 1988 Olympics gold

are both of Kalenjin descent, an ethnic group from the

medalist, has instructed four NCAA champions,

country’s western rift valley region. It’s actually a common

47 NCAA All-Americans, 98 conference champions

misconception that Kenyans, as one national group, are

and four NCAA regional champions during his

great runners. Nearly all world-class Kenyan competitors,

tenure with the team. A large part of the coach’s

including every current Kenyan on UTEP’s track squad,

success is undoubtedly due to his ability to recruit

have been Kalenjin. There’s no general consensus

talent from his home country, Kenya—the world’s

regarding the population’s extraordinary running aptitude,

foremost producer of elite distance runners. I recently

although commentators have proposed a multitude of

sat down with two of the program’s current Kenyan

theories—from socio-economics, their high starch diet, to

athletes to learn their stories.

genetics. When I asked Antony if he had any ideas, he told me he wasn’t sure, but that it was probably due to a combination of factors. www.thecitymagazineelp.com

April, 2019

www.thecitymagazineelp.com

29

Photo courtesy of UTEP athletics

April, 2019

Lilian and Antony led typical lives back home.

They both grew up in large families, Lilian one of six and Antony one of eight, and their parents owned small farms which the children were expected to help tend. Education, however, was the kids’ primary focus. In fact, Antony’s earliest experiences running came during his six-mile round-trip commute every day to the local elementary school.

Surprisingly, neither Lilian nor Antony recall competitive running playing an important role in their early childhoods. It wasn’t until high school that they really started training hard, having become aware of the doors athletics could open. Lilian remembers the turning point in her athletic career: “It wasn’t that serious until some girls who had graduated from my high school came back from the US and told us that we could go for running.

That’s when I got serious,” she said.

Both Miners have taken full advantage of the educational opportunities track and field has made available to them. Lilian began a graduate program in pharmacy this school year and Antony is set to graduate in the spring with a degree in industrial engineering and a minor in mathematics. Especially impressive feats

Beyond the usual challenges of becoming

enriching he’s found the cultural experience,

when you take into account their strenuous

Division 1 athletes, Lilian and Antony have

saying: “There is a lot of diversity here and I

training regimens—6-mile runs every morning

also had to adjust to life in a foreign country.

like that. I have American friends and friends

in addition to daily practices at 3:00 p.m.

As one would expect, there was some initial

from other countries too, like Mexico ...

Antony described the challenges associated

culture shock. They both remember being

I love American food and Mexican food ...

with being a student athlete, saying: “It’s very

taken aback by the lack of intimacy between

burritos are great.”

hard. You have to have good time management

strangers in public places. On campus, for

skills, taking every opportunity you have to

example, students often cross paths without

Although Lillian and Antony’s NCAA eligibility

study when you’re not training. It’s a lot, but

acknowledging each other—something unheard

expires after this season, their American

you just have to do it.”

of in rural Kenya. They also missed

adventures are far from over. Lillian, who has

traditional Kalenjin community events, like

yet to return home since moving here five

However, despite the heavy workload,

the coming-of-age ceremonies that cap

years ago, will continue her graduate studies

they’re both grateful for the chance to study

off month-long periods of training and self-

in pharmacy and then hopes to find a job here

at UTEP: “If it weren’t for running I never

discovery for adolescents.

in the USA. Following graduation, Antony plans on continuing his training while pursuing

would have been able to come to such a prestigious university. I’d still be in Kenya

However, despite the challenges, the two

optional practical training (OPT). He eventually

... I don’t know if I would have gone to

runners are adamant about their affection for

hopes to get a masters or doctorate.

university,” said Antony.

El Paso. Antony, in particular, spoke of how

30

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April, 2019

EL PASO RHINOS Thank you, Rhino fans!

Because of the best fans in junior hockey, your Rhinos have had the best attendance record in the Western States Hockey League and in franchise history! www.thecitymagazineelp.com

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Call 915-479-PUCK (7825) or visit elpasorhinos.com for season tickets and more information.

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April, 2019

Chuck Ruhmann Connecting Those in Need | By: ZAK HANSEN Photos courtesy of: RUHMOD AD AGENCY |

T

o help others—it’s that principle

where they were. I started with the premise

families had a turkey for Thanksgiving dinner

that guides Chuck Ruhmann, in both his

to help people, because most of the time,

they otherwise could not have afforded.

professional and personal life. As one of

we’re the only ones who can help them

the area’s best-recognized personal

when a billion-dollar insurance company is

“I first started it to give to those who couldn’t

trying to take advantage of them.”

afford a meal that time of year—who are

injury lawyers, Chuck has fought for his

facing need that time of year. People are

clients for more than 15 years. A graduate of Baylor University and St. Mary’s University

That’s the public face of Chuck Ruhmann, the

focused on what they have, instead of what

School of Law, Chuck is licensed in Texas,

one many El Pasoans are familiar with, from

others do not. Since there’s a need, and to

New Mexico and Arizona, serving clients in

highway billboards and radio advertisements

give thanks for all we had, we thought we’d

all three states in a wide variety of personal

or, god forbid, a serious injury case. But

give back,” explained Chuck.

injury cases.

there’s another side to Chuck, a private side, that’s led by that same principle of

Limited by radio advertising his first year

“When people are seriously injured, their

service to those in need. Take, for instance,

out, Chuck teamed with The Outlets of El

whole lives are changed in an instant.

Thanksgiving 2014.

Paso to get more coverage for his second turkey giveaway in 2015. That year, with

They’ve lost a family member, or they’re seriously injured, or they’ve lost their car,

“Thanksgiving is my favorite holiday—instead

iHeartRadio’s Mike Dee emceeing, Chuck

then their job because they don’t have a

of gifts and things like that, you just give

and his team distributed 500 turkeys. The

vehicle or they’re hurt—their whole life is

thanks for the blessings in your life,” Chuck

next year, the event expanded to “Stuff the

changed,” he said. “There’s no other entity

said, explaining the impetus for his first-ever

Truck with Chuck,” which drew thousands

they can go to to help them get back to

Thanksgiving turkey giveaway. That year, 300

to Barnett Harley-Davidson for a day full

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April, 2019

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April, 2019

Thanksgiving is my favorite holiday— instead of gifts and things like that, you just give thanks for the blessings in your life.

www.thecitymagazineelp.com

35

April, 2019

36

www.thecitymagazineelp.com

Chuck Ruhmann - Connecting Those in Need

We try to funnel these donations to those who really need it. It started as a broad, general thing, but we really wanted to focus down to those who really don’t have anything. I’ve been approached out at dinner and told by someone that we were the only reason a family had a turkey one year. That really keeps me going. of raffles—furniture sets from National

food pantry at Sacred Heart Church in the

them, perhaps a once-in-a-lifetime experience.

Furniture Liquidators, gift cards from Mesa

heart of Duranguito, all of which serve the

While Chuck is certainly the orchestrator

Street Bar & Grill, family passes for Jungle

area’s most-vulnerable residents.

of all of this, he’s quick to brush aside too much credit, and sees himself more as

Jack’s and Wet N’ Wild Waterworld, salon and spa treatments from The Mix Salon

“We try to funnel these donations to those

a go-between—identifying a need in the

and more, all generously donated by the

who really need it,” he said of the change. “It

community, and connecting those in need

community—and of course, turkeys … more

started as a broad, general thing, but we really

with

than 1,000 of them.

wanted to focus down to those who really

provide.

individuals

and

organizations

that

don’t have anything. I’ve been approached In 2017, Chuck and his team decided to do

out at dinner and told by someone that we

Living and working in El Paso, Chuck is

things a little differently, again, and teamed

were the only reason a family had a turkey

uniquely aware of the particular needs in

with Albertsons stores in El Paso and Las

one year. That really keeps me going.”

his community: “You have a huge group of people who need things, who can’t afford

Cruces to put together hundreds of vouchers for a full Thanksgiving dinner with all the

This dedication to service lasts year-round, in

necessities. All I can do is help people where

fixings, which were given away at his office,

smaller but no less impactful ways. It’s not

I can, either with my career or through

in stores and via social media.

hard to find Chuck and his many community

service,” he added. “As long as the good

associates giving away not only necessities—

lord allows me to help people, I’ll do it in

2018

food, warm winter clothes, school supplies and

whatever venue I can.”

presented a hiccup, when the 7,000 pounds

the like—but also providing opportunities to

of turkey ordered did not, at first, arrive. After

families and individuals in the community who

Perhaps even more than the immediate

a bit of scrambling, the order was filled just in

frequently are forced to miss out. Movie passes.

impact, Chuck is focused on the future.

time for Thanksgiving, and that 7,000 pounds

Concert tickets. Seats at UTEP basketball

“When you help yourself and set the

of turkey went to where it was needed most.

and football games. A pumpkin patch around

example, you can help people. That’s what I

Breaking from tradition, Chuck and his

Halloween. Tickets to Street Fest or the El Paso

want to do—to teach people to help people.

numerous

The

“great

turkey

shortage”

of

directed

Ice Cream Festival. A suite at Southwestern

To start somewhere. Instead of focusing

all of that year’s food donations to a few

Desert Park and a night of baseball with the

on ourselves, remember that we’re part of

organizations—the Lemore Home, the Casa

Chihuahuas. To many, these experiences are

a bigger community, and in that community

de Peregrinos Food Bank in the Las Cruces

easily taken for granted, but to many families,

our neighbors have needs. We need to start

Community of Hope, the El Pasoans Fighting

they’re just out of reach. And week after week,

to pay attention to them.”

Hunger Food Bank, CASA of El Paso and the

Chuck is there, quietly giving families what is, for

community

www.thecitymagazineelp.com

partners

37

El Paso April, 2019

38

www.thecitymagazineelp.com

April, 2019

L

Passage | By: HOPE ALEGRE Photo By: BRIAN WANCHO |

ight art, also referred to as luminism, is spread across destinations around the world. It is an

applied art form that draws the eye and manipulates light, color and shadow. They are oftentimes

the photo worthy destinations of many travelers. However, El Paso is not foreign to light art, remember the freeway light rails and the lighted sculptures along Interstate 10 and Airway

Boulevard? With the purpose of radiating beauty, El Paso’s new project is no different. In an effort to enhance visitor experience and promote the El Paso’s visual image, “The city has incorporated the vision of adding light programming to projects to create that sense of place at night, as well as during the day. With this initiative and the need for airport improvements El Paso Passage was born,” says Public Art Supervisor Aidee Cosme.

The El Paso Passage is an art installation that includes a spectrum sequence, part of a much larger computerized LED color-changing program. It is meant to provide an engaging experience, and is located along a corridor on Airway Boulevard between

www.thecitymagazineelp.com

39

E l Pa s o Pa s s ag e

April, 2019

4799 N Mesa

A Wise Owl Once Said...

“Put a Relleno On it!”

Boeing Drive and Convair Road. Being

was an overlooked bridge near the project

that the light art is adjacent to the El Paso

boundaries, both the airport and our program

International Airport entrance, it will likely

thought it was a perfect fit.”

be the first and last thing many see while visiting El Paso. Although locals are sure to

FitzGibbons, who was named an Official State

appreciate it too.

Artist in 2012 by the Texas Legislature, has done sculpture art for more than 30 years. During this

40

Funded through the Airport Enterprise Fund,

time, he has completed 30 public works of art

The City of El Paso reached out to San

that spread across five countries including: the

Antonio artist Bill FitzGibbons to commission

United Kingdom, Germany and Iceland. It is

and design an integrated architectural and

apparent that all of Bill’s art incorporates LED

landscape light installation.

lighting systems one way or another.

“El Paso Passage is part of a larger airport

“It is my intent to humanize the experience

project. The airport started the initiative of

between the viewer and the art, and to

incorporating more landscape and a few

create a space of beauty out of sites that

renovations to the overall airport image. The

are otherwise rushed through unnoticed. It

idea of incorporating lights was always a

is my hope that that such an experience will

part of the project, and solidified when the

remain with the viewer long after leaving the

artist became involved since his medium

space behind,” said FitzGibbons in a previous

is lights,” Aidee says. “He has done a few

interview with CODAworx (Collaboration of

bridge beautifying pieces and since there

Design + Art). www.thecitymagazineelp.com

April, 2019

915.504.9269 140 Montecillo Suite b-1 www.thecitymagazineelp.com nicholasreyeshair.com

41

April, 2019

| By:H ENRY | VER C RA

Why Hasn’t Everything Already Disappeared? By Deerhunter Our much-loved Atlanta rockers are back with a seventh studio album. In their latest effort, the group becomes the latest arrivers to an already overcrowded ship of commentators lamenting the corrosive effects of nostalgia. The cliché theme, however, doesn’t really matter because Deerhunter still does what made them famous–rock out!

La Onda de Juan Pablo by Juan Wauters Sung entirely in Spanish by Uruguayan-American musician Juan Wauters, La Onda de Juan Pablo is as fun as it is clever. The subject matter is charmingly whimsical and the sound varies song to song, pulling from a number of Latin America’s musical lineages. The record’s eclectic style may put some off, but this writer appreciated being kept on his toes.

Father of 4 by Offset The migo’s first solo album offers an intimate glimpse at the mercurial nature of stardom. Much like Offset’s flow, his career has been marked by stops and gos–prison, top40 hits and his recent fallout with Cardi B. The album’s sincerity is a nice change from his group’s usual bravado, but you can still count on that same unique sound that made Migos a household name.

While We Wait by Kehlani The Bay Area songstress’ latest project is a smashing success. Her lucid tracks artfully plunge into themes of struggle and survival, and while there is much pain, the songs also convey hope.

42

Although the year is still young, this album might go down as 2019’s best.

April, 2019

presents

FREE Concert series Thursday Evenings, McKelligon Canyon

may9 - August 1, 2019 www.kisselpaso.com

www.thecitymagazineelp.com

43

Real Estate Pros Profiles

Iris Saenz ERA Sellers & Buyers Real Estate 1346 N. Zaragoza Rd. El Paso, Texas 79936 (915) 873-8202

Iris Saenz Before Iris Saenz bought her first house she was working as a

our city and rely on me to help them. It is a big responsibility but I

banker—juggling her job with full-time mom duties. Then she met

love making their transition as easy as possible.” Iris helps those

her realtor agent and realized that she had a different career calling.

who want to sell as well “from pricing it right, staging it, marketing

Since then, every year for six years, Iris has been able to provide for

it and getting my client to profit as much as possible.” Iris has built

her family as one of the top bilingual producers at ERA Sellers and

a trusting relationship with clients and notes how “at the end of

Buyers. “I love helping families buy their first homes and guide them

the day what is most important is that my clients are happy.” Make

through the process,” says Iris. Many of her clients are in the military,

selling or buying your first home a breeze by contacting Iris today.

“a lot of them have never been in El Paso, don’t know anything about

By: SARRA VALENZUELA photographed by: DAVID PARISH

SPECIAL ADVERTISING | 45

Imebel Montenegro 11860 Vista Del Sol, Ste. 132 El Paso, Texas 79936 imebelmontenegro@gmail.com www.imebelmontenegro.com (915) 588-7912

Imebel Montenegro Real estate doesn’t feel like a job to Imebel Montenegro. She’s been in the industry for 16 years and hasn’t taken a day of it for granted. It all started in college when she was offered an entry level position with a home builder group, Imebel excelled immediately at the job thanks to her boundless energy, diverse skill set and passion for helping clients. Her bosses took notice and she continued to grow within the company as they expanded into the Chicago area. Her time in Chicago was a great success—she was able to bring back all she had learned when she decided to return to the Sun City to start a family.

Now a mother of three and a licensed independent realtor, Imebel uses her drive to put El Pasoans in their dream homes and get sellers the prices they deserve. Her areas of expertise are wide, including: residential buying and selling, investment properties, rental properties and commercial buying and selling.

“I take my time in getting to know my clients so that together we can find the home that they have always desired. What they want becomes a priority for me and many times the friendship lasts beyond the moment I hand them their keys.”

46 | SPECIAL ADVERTISING

By: HENRY CRAVER photographed by: JOHN HORTA

Denise Caballero, REALTOR® Monarc Group, Powered by Home Pros Real Estate Group 1035 Belvidere, Ste. 200 El Paso, Texas 79912 (915) 342-8716

Denise Caballero Born and raised in El Paso, Denise Caballero has led a life dedicated to her community. She has served as chair on several boards and is currently interim president of the El Paso Pro-Musica Guild. With her family always by her side, Denise has led innovative fundraising drives and truly believes in giving back to her community.

In many ways, Denise’s real estate career is an extension of her public service. She began working as an agent in 2007, eager to start a new career after her daughters went away to college. Today, Denise serves both El Paso and Las Cruces as she is licensed in both Texas and New Mexico. She also provides service to a wide range of clientele being bi-lingual in English and Spanish, and dealing in both residential and commercial properties. Denise has achieved the status of a multi-million dollar top producer thanks to her boundless energy, grit and intimate understanding of El Paso and its people.

She explains that it all comes easy to her simply because it doesn’t feel like work, saying: “I do this because I love putting families in the homes they truly want and I’ll do whatever it takes to make that happen, no matter if it’s a luxury or starter home. My duty is to give each client everything I’ve got.”

Photographed by: JOHN HORTA

SPECIAL ADVERTISING | 47

Justin Cates, Realtor® New Beginnings Realty 12770-B Edgemere El Paso, Texas 79938 (915) 252-5989 jcates.realtor@gmail.com facebook.com/justincatesrealtor/

www www www www

Justin Cates Justin Cates doesn’t spend much time thinking about the sales numbers. Instead, he focuses on his clients and lets the rest come along on its own. He believes that prospective home buyers, more than anything, need an agent who understands the gravity of their investment and what they expect out of it. He relishes being that agent: Building a close relationship with the customer and delivering the best possible deal. A desire to help people, after all, is what drove him to the industry in the first place. A strong family man himself, Justin states, “There’s something so rewarding about putting families in the perfect home or getting your seller the right price. It’s such a defining life moment. Having the opportunity to facilitate the whole thing is really special.”

However, Justin is a lot more than just a nice guy—he’s also one of the field’s most talented marketers. He worked for over a decade in graphic design before becoming a Realtor® and now uses that experience to get the most for buyers and sellers. The ads he’s able to create and his social media presence are truly a step above the competition.

Justin Cates, above all, cares that his clients walk away happy.

Luckily for both parties, he’s got the tools to make it happen.

By: photographed by: ???? | SPECIAL 48 ????

ADVERTISING

By: HENRY CRAVER | 48 SPECIAL photographed by:ADVERTISING JENN MÁRQUEZ

Ozzie Chavez Harris Real Estate Group 7100 Westwind, Ste. 260 El Paso, Texas, 79912 (915) 241-9834 ozziechavez@harris-realestate.com

Ozzie Chavez, President of NAHREP El Paso Ozzie Chavez understands firsthand the value of the National

most important homebuyer demographic, being the only group to

Association of Hispanic Realtors (NAHREP). Before becoming the

have actually increased their rate of homeownership during the

El Paso chapter’s president, he saw his numbers skyrocket thanks

last three years. What’s more, studies predict that this trend will

to connections and insights gained through the organization. Last

accelerate in the coming decade, further boosting the hispanic

year alone, 27 percent of his sales came from NAHREP referrals. In

market share. Any real estate professional’s future success,

addition to consistent networking opportunities, NAHREP ensures

especially in the borderland, hinges on having a comprehensive

that its members stay up to date on all the industry’s latest trends

understanding of homeownership among hispanics.

and policy changes. Afterall, as the nation’s leading advocate for hispanic homeowners, NAHREP is keenly aware of legislation movements both in Washington and at the state level.

NAHREP El Paso memberships only costs $49 a year and are open to all industry professionals who serve the hispanic community.

NAHREP’s role in the industry will only become more significant in the coming years. Latinos have recently emerged as the country’s By: HENRY CRAVER photographed by: DAVID PARISH

SPECIAL ADVERTISING | 49

Crossing Over with Richard Wright | Written and photographed by: HENRY CRAVER |

50

April, 2019

www.thecitymagazineelp.com

April, 2019

Juárez is the coolest thing about El Paso.

Well, at least according to Richard Wright, the owner of “Juárez Walking Tours” and popular local blog, “El Chuqueño.” It may seem like an odd claim in light of our sister city’s recent history.

However, after accompanying Rich on two of his tours, I’m starting to think the old-timer might have a point.

The excursions begin on this side of the

History was a recurring theme through

in the region. An El Paso native, he began

Santa Fe bridge and groups vary in size,

both of my trips. Armed with a book of old

crossing over regularly in the 1970s when he

usually numbering between two and five.

Juárez photos, Rich effortlessly placed our

was 15 and hasn’t stopped since, not even

Beyond the meeting point and $25 per

surroundings into a narrative stretching back

during Juárez’s most difficult times. He’s

person charge, however, no tour is exactly

hundreds of years, from pre-Columbian times

seen Benito Juárez avenue transform from

the same because Rich tailors each itinerary

to the recent drug war. Rich has obviously

a mini Vegas gringo magnet to a no-go zone

to his clients’ interests.

done his research, but what makes the

for tourists, and he knows the small business

stories really special is his own experience

owners who’ve borne the consequences.

www.thecitymagazineelp.com

51

April, 2019

KEEP YOUR BODY

RUNNING Sports medicine, reconstruction & joint replacement Rich’s knowledge of downtown Juárez

many 6-foot-4-inch tall “güeros” parading the

goes far beyond its landmarks. Just about

city streets in big straw hats, after all. But

Call (915) 581-0712

everywhere we went, people called his name

it’s more than that. He’s spent an incredible

East: 1400 GEORGE DIETER STE. 100 Central: 1810 Murchison Ste. 140

and came up to say hello. “I don’t know

amount of time discovering the zone’s hidden

everyone here, but everyone knows me,”

haunts and getting to know their frequenters.

he told our group after shaking a passerby’s

Whether the locals know him personally or

hand. Some of the stardom can certainly be

not, they’ve all taken notice of his curiosity

attributed to his appearance—there aren’t

and they appreciate it.

suncityorthoandhand.com

NEW LOCATION coming soon:

820 Redd Road 52

www.thecitymagazineelp.com

April, 2019

Nowhere is Rich’s intimate connection to

full of cowboy hat-wearing men who play

Juárez so clear as in the area’s numerous

a strange three-ball variation of billiards. Of

cantinas. Obviously, he knows his way

course, like everywhere else, Rich was on a

around the Kentucky Club, but so does

first-name basis with the bartender and we

everyone. It’s the little hole-in-the-wall bars

had a lovely time.

that most would never notice, or dare to enter, where Rich shines. After lunch, for

I don’t have enough space to describe every

example, he led us to the front of a big,

spot we visited or accurately express how

understated building with a shabby blue tarp

it all made me feel. So please, reach out to

covering its entrance. Past the makeshift

Rich at elrichiboy@sbcglobal.net and find out

door we discovered a sprawling pool hall

for yourselves.

53

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www.thecitymagazineelp.com

April, 2019

Unlike me, you don’t have nine lives.

Donating blood saves 12,000 lives a day. But people under 40 aren’t giving like generations before them. So animals are teaming up with Vitalant to save the humans. Because if young people don’t start donating, we could run out.

Find a blood donation center at Vitalant.org

www.thecitymagazineelp.com

55

For more information, go to vitalant.org

56

Things Known

D o o r s

and Unknown

April, 2019

| By: MICHELLE CROMER |

www.thecitymagazineelp.com

Spiritualit y

April, 2019

I

t is a haunting sight standing in front

The nature of the door itself, and its guardians

of the mysterious “Chamber B” at the

may well shape our choice, helping us decide

Padmanabhaswamy Temple in Kerala, India.

if we will feel comfortable with what lies

Two embossed cobras stand guard on two

beyond. The symbolism of a door closing is

enormous doors that have no bolts, latches

one of an opportunity fading, of a potential

or any other means of entry, sealed shut by

now lost to us.

Jason Vourazeris, M.D. El Paso’s board-certified shoulder surgeon. Also, providing cutting-edge, non-surgical treatments, including Platelet-rich Plasma (PRP) therapy.

sound waves from a secret chant lost in time.

A door opening is symbolic of exciting new Across cultures, as long as history has been

potential. The block, which stood before us,

recorded, doors and doorways have been

has now been removed, and we are free to

symbolic as both entrances and exits, and been

move forward and to cross the threshold into

associated with portals and passageways. The

something new. We are invited forward into

oldest records we have of doors were found

change, with nothing to negotiate except the

inside ancient Egyptian tombs. Amazingly, the

transition of one place to another. The guardian

oldest existing door is from Switzerland and is

of the threshold is welcoming us forward.

thought to be over 5,000 years old.

The symbolism of the door is closely mystery,

bound with the symbols of doorways and

separating two distinct areas, keeping things

thresholds, and of keys and locks, hinges

apart. They are a barrier, a boundary, which

and handles, bells and guardians. The door

must be negotiated before the threshold

itself either allows movement forward or

can be crossed. The mysterious beyond is

prevents it, and in this way we can see the

hidden from sight by the closed door, and

door as a symbol of duality, as it is closed

some sort of action must be taken before

or open, locked or unlocked. The root of the

the other side becomes visible and available

English word door lies in the Sanskrit word

to us. The closed door is full of potential, for

“Duarah,” which means two doors or gates.

anything might lie beyond, as yet unknown

From this comes the Greek “Thura,” the

and unseen. Yet the closed door may also be

German “Tur,” Middle English “Dure” or

limiting, preventing us ever-gaining access to

“Dor” and Old Norse “Dyrr”—these all mean

its hidden contents.

door. We also find the Gaulish “Doro,” which

Doors

hold

the

essence

of

means mouth, giving us an interesting image Sometimes gaining access may be as simple

of the lips as double doors to our mouths and

as approaching and turning the handle, but

the words beyond. A guarded way in and out

perhaps the door is locked. Then we need

of our bodies.

to knock or ring the bell and negotiate with the guardian or keeper of the door. Saying

While standing at the majestic doors at the

the right words, or holding the correct

Indian temple, I was told that any human

credentials, will then secure our passage.

attempt made with technology to open

This theme recurs in countless fairytales and

the doors would unleash an unspeakable

myths, from Ali Baba to Cuchulin. Belonging

calamity on the city. Some even say

to the club or group, which lies within, or

opening the door against its will can release

paying the doorkeeper might also secure

unspeakable horrors throughout India, and

passage, but some doors remain stubbornly

perhaps the rest of the world. As I turned

closed, unless you hold the key.

to leave, I thought about the wise words of Helen Keller: “Often we look so long at the

So when we face a closed door, we face a

closed door that we do not see the one that

choice. What action will we take? Will we

has been opened for us.”

turn back defeated by the barrier, or will we push forward and attempt to gain access? www.thecitymagazineelp.com

12770 Edgemere Blvd Bldg F El Paso, TX 79938 (915) 249-4000 | orthoep.com 57

Home Builders & Construction Pros Profiles

JER Custom Homes 18 Silver Crest Dr. El Paso, Texas 79902 (915) 329-5102 www.jercustomhomes.com

JER Custom Homes Located in Valley Creek, looking out onto the Franklin mountains, sits a truly stunning piece of modern architecture. The single story structure is defined by a coherent array of sharp angles and, of course, a splendid patio to take in the view. As beautiful as the house is, however, it’s also practical, boasting a 5-Star energy rating and a build quality that’s certain to endure. The premier home in question was built by JER Custom Homes, and is just one of the many recent masterpieces by the builder.

There’s no secret behind the group’s record of excellence: They strive to be the best custom builder in the city because the community

Project manager and designer of all of these

deserves it. When asked what drives them,

fabulous homes is Leticia Mata. She is excited

Jorge

to be part of JER Custom Homes and shares

underlying philosophy: “We love El Paso and El

a great vision of El Paso with founder, Jorge

Paso deserves the best. We want to innovate

Rodriguez. Their goal is to make JER Custom

on each new project and make it better than

Homes the number one custom home builder

the last, no exceptions.”

doesn’t

hesitate

to

explain

their

in El Paso.

By: HENRY CRAVER photographed by: JOHN HORTA

SPECIAL ADVERTISING | 59

JJ Vasquez Juan Jose (JJ) Vasquez remembers the time when he purchased

If you have bad credit, or even no credit, Pacifica Homes (JJ)

his first home back in the late 1980s, recently married with plans for

can arrange the right financing, so long as the customer meets

children on the horizon. Years away from becoming an established

employment, tax and residency requirements, and has 20% percent

builder, JJ worked making $3.50 an hour while his wife studied full-

to put down on their new home.

time to become a teacher. They lived in a small apartment in Sunset Heights where they desperately wanted out but didn’t have many options. With little in the way of credit history, no bank was willing

If interested, potential buyers should call Pacifica Homes (JJ) to see if you qualify.

to grant JJ a suitable home loan. The disappointment ultimately led him to get into the real estate business himself and with time he eventually got the home he had dreamed of. The process took years, however, and a ton of hard work.

www www www www

JJ Vasquez Pacifica Homes 12660 Tierra Clara Rd. El Paso, Texas 79938 (915) 740-9399

| SPECIAL By: ???? photographed by: ????

60 ADVERTISING

| 60 Photographed by: JOHN HORTA SPECIAL ADVERTISING

April, 2019

Borderless Fund Giving | By: HOPE ALEGRE |

62

Borderless Giving Fund

April, 2019

P

ediatric orthopedic conditions are often a result of poor development. It is in utero when bone and muscle tissue develop abnormally, and can vary in terms of the effect on their life. May it be from lack of prenatal care or

Fronteras in Mexico and part of a binational program that

abnormal genes, conditions like club foot, club

helps low-income families receive necessary orthopedic

hand and hip dysplasia can stay with the child if

care. While the candidates receive lowered rates for the

never properly treated.

These congenital conditions lead to difficulties walking,

surgeries, all cost are covered with money that is donated through corporations and fundraisers. There is a large fiesta that is hosted every year in Juárez for this purpose.

running, writing, bone destruction, and more. In a city like Juárez, many families do not have the funds to travel or

Once a year, Angeles Hospital in Ciudad Juárez hosts a day clinic.

cover the cost of visits to a specialist, much less surgery

Doctors and nurses from Texas Tech and the El Paso Children’s

and follow-up visits. How is the city of El Paso supposed to

Hospital with specialties in feet and hands are in attendance

ignore orthopedic conditions like these that are so prevalent

to help screen children and find the best candidates for the

on our border? Well it’s simple: we don’t.

orthopedic surgeries. Before the doctors even see the children, program manager Margarita Enriquez holds a pre-screening

Conditions like the aforementioned require specialized care

process to narrow down the number of candidates. Once

and surgeries to correct the abnormalities and offer children

the candidates are selected, it is Margarita who handles the

a better quality of life. In almost any other scenario there is an

logistics. She picks them up, takes them to their appointments

inconvenience of having to travel hundreds of miles to seek

or surgeries, and drives them all back home. “I was doing it all

specialized care. The Borderless Giving Fund, however, is in

with just my car … Johnson & Johnson donated a van for 15

place and dedicated to help children of Mexican citizenship

passengers that makes it easier,” she says. The Mexican and

receive the necessary care from orthopedic surgeons at El

American Consulates provide permits that allow for the back and

Paso Children’s Hospital. It is a sister foundation of Dar Sin

forth travel of the children and their families.

www.thecitymagazineelp.com

63

C A L L 877-4XCLEAN PROVIDING YOU A CLEAN, PRODUCTIVE WORK ENVIRONMENT

These surgeries not only change the lives of the children, but their families as well. There is a lack of resources implemented in the schools, so in turn, the children don’t attend. This means parents can’t work because they need to stay home and care for their children. It is after these surgeries that children can begin to attend school, which means the parents are able to go back to work.

“I love my job and what I do, we are able to help these kids and their families … it also helps the doctors at Texas Tech teach students about conditions that aren’t prevalent or really seen anymore,” says Margarita.

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#EPStateofMind

April, 2019

Highlighting the corners of our city one post at a time...

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April, 2019

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Hidden

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April, 2019

ms

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April, 2019

BENNY FRANKS

| By: KRISTIN BROWN photography by: JESSE MAYNES |

J

ust driving up to Benny Franks is a visual statement in itself. Its grand appearance makes their presence not only known, but felt. The bold logo lights up vividly along with the green hue from the top container windows. Built by architect Charles Austin, the modern container design stands out among most buildings in El Paso. It is no secret that the far east side of EP has expanded, and it is safe to say that Benny Franks is one of the biggest contributions.

Craft cocktails, a vast beer selection, and a southern fusion menu they coined #chucocuisine... Benny Franks not only brings something new to the far east, but to all of El Paso.

Two of the partners, Daniel Shaw and Leandro Chavez, tell me that they wanted to bring something exciting and new to El Paso. “We always want to push the boundaries with our craft cocktails, food and culture for the city that we love” says Shaw. “We were very influenced by New Orleans culture but wanted to give it an EP twist.

We want you to feel like a million bucks when you are here without spending a million bucks while you are here.”

With very affordable food prices as well as beer and liquor combos, there is a huge selection for everyone. “We are your locally owned and friendly neighborhood bar but we also want it to feel luxurious and unlike any other experience in town” says Shaw. The gentlemen have all worked together in the past, so it truly feels like a culmination of the things they love under one—or two—roofs.

With one covered patio and one rooftop patio, there is plenty of space to socialize or unwind at Benny Franks. The first-floor container is more of a family-friendly restaurant that includes an outdoor patio, a variety of games and even caters to those who want to bring their fourlegged friends. For their Chuco Cuisine menu, Chef Rulis Gonzalez says that they “wanted to put the focus back into El Paso”. Due to their local approach, they only use fresh ingredients that are grown

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69

April, 2019

within a 50 mile radius of the restaurant.

Rulis mentions that they tested out a menu during their soft opening and were able to make changes based on the opinions of the locals. Make sure to order the fan favorite “Benny Franks,� which consists of 12’ andouille sausage, pork belly and toreados on a French baguette smothered in queso and Chuco Chile sauce. The entire menu is mouth-watering from start to finish.

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www.thecitymagazineelp.com

April, 2019

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71

hidden gem

April, 2019

For the top container, you will notice a shift in the atmosphere as you head up to the rooftop patio and into the gorgeous specialty bar. The window cutouts make for a great view—day or night. They play a variety of music, from ambient to indie to hip hop. When entering the bar, you will notice an entire wall full of local, craft and imported beers. It is imperative to know there is something for everyone here, whether you like cocktails, beer or liquor.

Order the NOLA Bourbon Milk Punch for a drink that matches the vibe of the bar ... or speak with one of the expert bartenders for a custom drink made specifically for you.

With Shaw having a background in art and tattooing, you will notice a variety of original art pieces around the entire spot. The most noticeable being the massive original Benjamin Franklin piece by local artist Christin Apodaca... guaranteed to be your next Instagram post. Even the bathrooms are covered floor to ceiling in original art by Mason, a member of LA’s CVS Crew. Bringing the culture and aesthetics was very important to the team and they did not hold back one bit. Although the entire process took three years to complete, the gentlemen do not look anything short of accomplished.

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www.thecitymagazineelp.com

April, 2019

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April, 2019

Celebrity

Eats

n e b u R Vogt | By: ELAINE GORDON |

Ruben’s Raja Chicken Breast Serves 6-7 Ingredients: 6-7 cooked chicken breasts or 1 rotisserie chicken 1 large white onion, sliced in long strips

Ruben Vogt is a native of Canutillo, and grew up on a small

5 large jalapeños

farm with his parents. A first-generation college graduate

5 poblano peppers

from the University of Texas at El Paso, Ruben’s passion is

5 long green Anaheim chiles

strengthening his community by helping empower others

1 can of corn

to create lasting change. At 19, he served as the founding

8 ounces mozzarella or queso Oaxaca (any cheese that melts well)

Director of CYnergy (civic-youth-energy), a program of

8 ounces low fat or regular cream cheese

UTEP’s Center for Civic Engagement aimed at building

8 ounces crema Mexicana

social capital by helping disadvantaged border youths become social entrepreneurs.

Directions: In a small pot, boil jalapeños until soft (approximately 5 minutes). Remove

For his work, he has received multiple awards: The Brower

from the stove and cool under cold water. Remove the head of the jalapeño

Youth Award, The Young People for National Award for

along with seeds and cut the remainder into long slender strips. Set aside.

Outstanding Outreach and Empowerment, the 2013 People for the American Way and the Norman Lear Award for social

On a comal/grill, or directly on a stove burner (medium flame), roast the

justice and advocacy. Ruben was the first UTEP student to be

long green chiles and poblano chiles (approximately 10-12 minutes). You’ll

awarded the Harry S. Truman Scholarship. He was also one

want to let them roast long enough that the skin is toasted and blackened

of 54 young leaders in the U.S. whose story was published in

— that said, don’t let them blacken so much that the skin begins to peel

“Chicken Soup for the Soul: Extraordinary Teen Soul.”

or disintegrate. Once done, let them cool off and remove the skin, head, seeds and cut into slender strips. Set aside.

In addition to the many awards and accolades, Ruben was asked to serve as El Paso’s first representative on the

Coat the bottom of a large pan with olive oil, adding a teaspoon of salt

board of directors for Equality Texas, where he now serves

and pepper if desired. Add the onion slices and stir occasionally until they

as chairman of the board.

become soft and start to brown. Add the jalapeños, green chiles and poblano peppers and stir until slightly toasty. Stir in one can of drained corn.

Professionally, he served as a legislative analyst for the Texas Senate and also served as public policy director for

Add the softened cream cheese, as well as the Mexican cream, and mix

former county judge, Veronica Escobar, and recently as

thoroughly. Slowly add shredded mozzarella (or cheese of your choice) and

chief of staff. In 2017, Ruben was appointed as El Paso

mix until it melts into a creamy sauce. Serve your “rajas” over the chicken,

county judge to complete Judge Escobar’s unexpired term

adding more salt and pepper to taste.

through 2018. He is the current director of government Relations for the University Medical Center of El Paso and

Note: Adding more cream will make the mixture thinner, while more cheese

continues to make a difference in the community.

and more time on the stove will make the mixture thicken.

Bon Appétit!

April, 2019

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r e t s a E At The

76

El Paso Zoo

| By: SARA BORREGO |

T

E l Pa s o zo o

here are many holiday traditions

Easter at the El Paso Zoo has transformed

enrichment activities that are provided to the

in El Paso that we hold dear to our

over the years into the wildly popular

zoo animals.

hearts. Luminarias along Scenic Drive

Eggstravaganzoo. During this event, the zoo

during Christmas, the annual FirstLight

is transformed into a spring wonderland with

“Enrichment activities like Eggstravaganzoo

FCU Sun Bowl Thanksgiving Parade and,

Easter decorations, games and activities,

keep

of course, Easter at the El Paso Zoo. My

entertainment, animal enrichment, candy

and physically,” said Animal Enrichment

memories include getting dressed up in

stations, arts and crafts and so much more.

Coordinator Carrie Trudeau. “We provide

a floral-print puffy dress (pink, of course),

The biggest highlight of the event is having

these types of activities every day to give

picking out my favorite stuffed animal and

the opportunity to have your photo taken

the animals an opportunity to engage in

hopping in the car with my family for the

with the Easter Bunny, who takes some

natural behavior and assert control over their

short drive to the El Paso Zoo.

time out of his busy schedule to hop on

environment.” During Easter, some of the

over to the zoo. Another big highlight are the

animals are given Easter egg piñatas that

the

animals

stimulated

mentally

77

Bad weather doesn’t just affect your home, it affects your business, too.

April, 2019

are filled with different treats for the specific animal. The elephants, for example, will usually receive a mix of grains, fresh fruits and vegetables, peanuts, shredded paper and more goodies to munch on once they smash their piñata open!

Easter isn’t the only celebration happening this year. The zoo’s Earth Day celebration, Party for the Planet, is also happening the same weekend. This conservation event will teach guests all about sustaining Earth’s resources all while having fun! El Paso community partners will be in attendance to inform the community on what El Paso is doing to help save the planet!

Call today for coverage you can tailor to your needs.

G.A. Delgado | 915-303-7122 | 4901 N MESA ST STE 3A 79912

78

Earth Day also shares the day with a very special zoo resident. Khaleesi, a female

April, 2019

Sumatran orangutan, was born on Earth Day 2015. Every year since then, the zoo staff decorates the orangutan exhibit with streamers and birthday decorations to help wish her a wonderful birthday. Khaleesi will turn four this year and she will be celebrating with a cake-shaped piĂąata, decorations all around her exhibit and hundreds of zoo guests singing happy birthday!

The combined events will definitely attract a wide array of people, all of whom share a combined love for animals and nature.

The El Paso Zoo is the perfect venue to celebrate these annual traditions with friends and family. So come decked out in your favorite outfit, bring those Easter baskets and meet us at the El Paso Zoo on April 20 & 21, 2019 from 10:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. for Eggstravaganzoo and Party for the Planet!

Get Social With Us @tableoccasions

79

Feeling sad, overwhelmed or struggling with addiction?

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We offer inpatient & outpatient behavioral health treatment for all ages: • Children • Adolescents • Adults We provide targeted services for: • Women • Seniors • Military members

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April, 2019

MARCH Opportunities to Give & Support

Walk MS: El Paso 2019 | April 6, 2019 9:00 a.m. – walk begins at 10:00 a.m.

Join a series of walks to end multiple sclerosis. The event features routes of varying distances, from one to three miles; is open to all ages; is scooter, wheelchair, and cane friendly, and has multiple restrooms. At the time of this publication, there are already more than 100 participants registered!

Venue: EPCC Valle Verde Campus | Register: nationalmssociety.org

Las Americas’ Border Heroes | April 12, 2019 | 6:30 p.m.

The Las Americas Immigrant Advocacy Center has been holding its annual fundraising dinner since 2002. Each year the organization honors their border hero, an individual from the community who has gone above and beyond to help our immigrant population. In addition to dinner, there are usually guest speakers and a silent auction. All proceeds go towards the center’s legal services division.

Venue: Temple Mount Sinai | Visit: www.las-americas.org.

La Feria Noche Española Mestiza Dinner Show April 26, 2019 | 6:30-10:30 p.m.

This fundraiser dinner is hosted by the Honorary Consul of Spain, La Sociedad Cultural de España and the San Elizario Genealogy and Historical Society. The meeting will take place at the Adobe Horseshoe Theatre in the San Elizario historic district.

Venue: Adobe Horseshoe Dinner Theatre | Admission: www.AdobeHorseshoe.com

Don’t wait.

Begin a healthier future with us today.

Call 915-544-4000 or 800-967-3411.

11th Annual Run/Walk for Autism Awareness April, 27, 2019 | 7:00 a.m. – Race begins at 8:00 a.m.

Celebrate the 11th annual run/walk for autism with The Autism Society of El Paso. The event features a 5 and 10K. Venue: EPCC Valle Verde Campus | Register: www.autismsocietyep.org

RotaCare Presents Havana Night April 27, 2019 | 6:00-11:00 p.m.

Held at the Coronado Country Club, this event will include dinner, dancing and a whole lot of fun. The proceeds go towards the RotaCare clinic, which provides medical care to underserved sections of our city.

Venue: Coronado Country Club Admission: Tickets range from $125 to $1,250 at www.eventbrite.com

YWCA Women’s Luncheon | April 30, 2019 | 11:30 a.m.

Every year, the YWCA of El Paso holds a luncheon benefiting their programs and related

1900 Denver Avenue El Paso, TX 79902 elpasobh.com With limited exceptions, physicians are not employees or agents of this hospital. Model representations of real patients are shown. Actual patients cannot be divulged 80 due to HIPAA regulations. For language assistance, disability accommodations and the non-discrimination notice, visit our website. 182477

causes around the community. They’ve raised more than $10 million in the past 26 years.

This year’s event supports the organization’s early childhood education programs, after school STEM programs, teen leadership, workforce development, affordable housing and their Transitional Living Center for women and children escaping domestic violence.

Venue: The El Paso Convention Center Admission: Individual tickets are $100; Register at ywcaelpaso.org

April, 2019

Mesa Street Grill Happy Hour

Enjoy premium cocktails at special happy hour pricing.

Monday - Friday 4-7 p.m.

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(915) 532-1881 | 3800 N. Mesa St D1, El Paso, TX 79902 | mesastreetgrill.com

S Rak’s tuff A Brief Biography of Bill Rakocy as Told Through His Belongings

| By: ROBERT DIAZ, Immediate Past President of the El Paso County Historical Society |

82

April, 2019

O

E l Pa s o h i s to ry

ne of the great things about being a historian is getting to

experience the past with my senses.

Going through artifacts in an archive or turning the pages of a 200-year-old book, I can absorb history—smell it, touch it, see it and hear it. History is very much with us, and relics of lives long gone can teach us a lot. The relics don’t even have to be hundreds of years old to be significant. Several years ago, I worked on the estate of artist and author Bill Rakocy.

Though I had never met “Rak,” as his friends called him, I felt like I knew the man after going through his belongings.

After Bill Rakocy died in August 2015, I was asked to help prepare his estate for the sale of his belongings. I could never have imagined the immensity of how much Rakocy had amassed over his lifetime.

Behind his Upper Valley home stood three structures packed with hundreds, perhaps thousands, of sketches, watercolors and paintings.

In these buildings, Rakocy also housed a framing workshop, library and darkroom. Crammed into almost every available space were thousands of pages of research for his books on Southwest history.

Rakocy had not organized these materials well. Instead, this was an archival labyrinth of Rakocy’s life. It was through these materials,

Christopher Forbes later wrote: “When you are with Bill, it is hard to

however, that the man’s life began to emerge.

believe that he is not a native of the Southwest. Rakocy’s work, like the man himself, is completely original. There are hints of masters

Rakocy was born on April 14, 1924, in Youngstown, Ohio, and spent

like El Greco and Van Gogh, and perhaps even the great American

his youth painting murals and stage sets. He served three years in the

Regionalist, Thomas Hart, for whom Bill modeled in the early 1950s…

Navy during World War II, and often passed the evenings sketching

Whether recreating the past—incidents in the lives of Pancho Villa

his colleagues. After the war, he received degrees from the Kansas

or Billy the Kid—or sketching workers at the Bermudez Pueblita

Art Institute. It was in art school where he met his future wife, Gloria

Mexicana project in Juárez, Rakocy’s love of the people of the

Canterbury. Gloria assisted her husband with his work over the years.

Southwest—native Americans, Anglos—is evident.”

Nevertheless, because of how prolific Rak was as an artist, Gloria encountered some of his works for the first time as we cleared out

Rakocy also self-published more than 10 books about El Paso, Juárez

his estate.

and New Mexico, most of them containing signed, original sketches.

Gloria explained that he carted the books around in his white mini-van,

Rakocy worked tirelessly throughout his life. It is hard to believe that

selling them to eager readers.

he ever rested. His dozens of journals serve as testimony to the artist’s sharp intellect and keen sense of humor. They detail the span

I will never meet Bill Rakocy. As much as I lament that, I am happy

of his career, from his time painting the ghost towns of New Mexico

that by getting to experience the wonderful madness of what he

to his tenure as curator for the El Paso Museum of Art.

left behind—smelling the pungent dyes on his paintings, touching the crumbling paper on his manuscripts, viewing his endless piles

Rakocy’s love for the Southwest is easily seen in most of his

of vibrant watercolors—Rak’s life collided directly with mine.

productions. A newspaper article titled “Rakocy Holds ‘Farewell’

Consequently, I got to know a fascinating person who I will never

Exhibit,” written by an Ohio reporter, describes his early paintings,

actually encounter in the flesh.

stating: “Rakocy’s trips to the Southwest nurtured in him an irresistible urge to move his family to that part of the country which has been the

Perhaps one day, a stranger will get to know you and me by engaging

greatest inspiration to him as an artist.”

with the materials we won’t take with us when we’re gone.

Robert Diaz is immediate past president of the El Paso County

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Historical Society.

83

April, 2019

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April, 2019

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Only one heart.

Only one you.

April, 2019

INDIVIDUALIZED HEART CARE, DEVOTED TO YOU.

No two hearts are exactly the same. That’s why the cardiovascular specialists of The Hospitals of Providence pursue an individualized care plan for every single heart we encounter. From preventative care to treating heart conditions, every element is designed to take care of our first priority: YOU.

To find a physician please call (844) 367-5654 or visit ElPasoHearts.com/oneheart 86

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April, 2019

s a w t a h t h s i W n e h A nted w t Gra s o M d e d e e N | By: ALEX ROHA |

E L PASO

W

ithout hesitation, a dolphin swims up and kisses eight-

year-old Natalie on the cheek.

Standing waist-deep in tropical waters, the vivacious little girl applauds her new friend’s flawless routine. Natalie wades out of the water and onto the beach, all smiles, and waits for the warm Nassau sun to dry her wetsuit.

Natalie and her family are at Blue Lagoon Island off the shore of the Bahamas via a Disney Cruise, orchestrated by the Make-A-Wish® Foundation and Make-A-Wish volunteers. On

the outside, Natalie is all smiles. By looking at her, you’d never know all the suffering this animated little girl has endured.

After being involved in a serious off-roading accident, almost 40 percent of Natalie’s body had succumbed to critical trauma, which included numerous medical complications. The doctor who treated Natalie marveled at her spirit during a long and difficult course of treatment, and praised Natalie for her tremendous progression and her always-evident strength.

Spending months at a time in the hospital and returning consistently for physical therapy sessions, Natalie was growing tired of her medical routine. But hope found its way back to her in the form of a wish. Make-A-Wish volunteer wish-granters encouraged Natalie to use her imagination, to make her wish her very own. Barely skipping a beat, Natalie expressed her desire for adventure, for a break from that medical treatment routine. Her

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87

M a k e - A - W i s h E l PA S O adventure would come on the high seas, in the form of a Disney Cruise!

Known as a fanatic for all things Disney, Natalie was hoping to see plenty of familiar faces on the ship, play lots of games and take part in every activity she could! For Natalie, this cruise meant getting to play like a normal eight-year-old girl—no doctor’s visits, no hospital stays, no treatments.

Climbing aboard the massive ship, Natalie immediately ventured off to explore. Everywhere she turned she noticed someone new. Natalie saluted Captain Mickey, sang with Ana and Elsa and blasted off with R2D2. As the boat pulled away from port, passengers realized how quickly the holidays were approaching. Natalie signed her name on Santa’s list—the “Nice” list, of course—had some fantastic facetime with Santa himself, and basked in the glow of a forest of Christmas trees!

Born into a military family, Natalie is used to moving around, so as the ship drifted from island to island, Natalie got her sea legs underneath her almost instantly.

Her parents lovingly watched as she lounged by the pool, filled up on the buffet and danced with her favorite characters. They hadn’t been able to take in the sight of their daughter like this in quite some time. Their precious little girl had her childhood halted the day of her accident Natalie’s Disney Cruise helped bring it back.

April, 2019

April, 2019 On the final day of Natalie’s adventure, the cruise ship made its way back to shore and helped a sense of normalcy return for Natalie and her family. Taking in a deep breath, Natalie considered all she had endured for her to

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moments that serve as the turning point in kids’ lives. It takes a community to make the hundreds of wishes granted by the North Texas Chapter possible every year. Make-A-Wish thanks each one of you, children all over North Texas thank you, and Natalie thanks you. Every eligible child needs a wish to count on. Find out more about

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Hope April, 2019

| By: ELYSE SIMONS |

for Aging Skin Around the Eyes

92

www.thecitymagazineelp.com

e

beaut y

April, 2019

O

ne of the first places signs

before you actually see wrinkles and crows

of aging begin to emerge is

feet. You can soften and correct the issues

around your eyes. Have you

you now have and prevent them from getting

noticed small wrinkles around

worse regardless of your age.

your eyes? It’s a fact that the

eye area ages faster than the

Why do I need a day eye cream and a night

rest of the face due to several

eye cream? A daytime eye cream keeps

factors: The skin around the eyes is seven

the skin firm and moist. It penetrates the

times thinner, is more delicate and lacks the

eye area to slow down aging and prevent

pores the rest of the face has. Pores allow

loss of elasticity. Try Chantecaille Stress

secretion of natural oils that help the skin

Repair Concentrate or Kiehls Creamy Eye

stay hydrated; lacking those pores makes

Treatment with Avocado. If you already see

the eye area drier. We also abuse the eyes

visible lines or wrinkles, you might want to

by rubbing to remove makeup, putting on

add a nighttime eye cream to your skin care

eyeliner, pulling the skin taut to apply makeup

regimen. This has a thicker, richer, Vaseline-

and by using contacts.

type consistency, which topically lubricates the skin to soften existing lines and give

Now that you better understand the skin

a smoother appearance. Try One Love

around our eyes, let’s talk about eye creams

Organics Vitamin E Eye Balm.

and how to use them properly. Can’t I just use an anti-aging face product and expect

How do I apply my eye cream? Warm a

results? The answer is absolutely not.

small amount of product (about the size of a

Many of the ingredients used for the rest

grain of rice) between your ring fingers, then

of the face are too strong for the delicate

gently tap around the eye from the top of the

skin surrounding the eyes and may cause

brow to half way around the cheek (where

stinging, burning and inflammation. Eye

the peach fuzz begins), or around the eye

products have been specifically formulated

socket where you feel the bone beneath. DO

to give the eye what it needs—collagen—

NOT apply too much eye cream, as this can

stimulating ingredients. Collagen is a protein

cause milia bumps which are keratin-filled

that maintains the structure, smoothness

cysts that form just under the skin and need

and elasticity of the skin to keep the area

to be removed by a doctor.

under the eyes looking healthy and smooth.

For your reference, eye creams are usually We all want to slow down the natural aging

sold in 1/2-ounce jars and a daytime eye cream

process. When should you start to use an

should last 6-9 months, while a nighttime eye

eye cream? Because everyone’s genetics,

cream should last about 12 months.

sun exposure, skin characteristics and rate of aging are different, you can make changes

93

His April, 2019

Prer

ogative

| By: ANDY MARTINEZ | ring some extra opulence to your grooming routine with our monthly guide. From super affordable shower gels to the ultimate in contemporary hairstyling, see what we’ve compiled to keep you looking and feeling your best.

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1

2

4

1 Bulldog | Shower Gel Many shower gels and body washes go the route of fragrance over function. Fortunately, Bulldog has found a happy medium between a tolerable scent and a truly refreshing, clean feeling. The menthol essential oils give an uplifting alternative to heavier, musky scents popular among men’s shower gels, while the rich lather works to simultaneously moisturize and cleanse the skin without throwing it off balance. The scent and feeling of cleanliness stays with you throughout the day without being too overpowering, perfect for those who have active lifestyles.

$10 | bulldogskincare.com

2 Jack Henry | Beard Oil Facial cleansers are a beard’s worst nightmare. No matter how hard you try to localize the application of certain face products, they inevitably end up going everywhere. This means that particularly strong facial cleansers can dry out the beard you’ve been working on for the last several weeks. For this, beard oils are a great solution for maintaining a soft and manageable beard texture. The conditioning qualities of this oil, a mixture of bergamot, grapeseed, sunflower and jojoba oils, nourishes the beard to help it look and become healthy. Only a couple of drops is enough to coat the beard to give it a nice, attractive sheen.

$32 | jackhenryco.com

3 Wander Beauty | Baggage Claim Eye Masks Everyone should have their own specialized skincare routine specifically tailored to days of travel and particularly exhausting days. One recent addition to my routine are these eye masks. While a full sheet mask or wash-off mask is ideal, you’re sometimes relegated to an airplane bathroom, or are simply too tired to put forth much effort into a full routine. Relatively easy-to-use, these eye masks give your sensitive under-eye area the nourishment they crave.

A quick and simple boost for your skin, they can make a world of a difference when the last thing you want to do is look as tired as you feel.

$25 | wanderbeauty.com

4 Oribe | Crème for Style The rule of thumb when it comes to hair length and product is the longer the hair, the lighter the product should be. This flexible styling crème shows off your natural hair texture with a

Whatever Your Occasion

Plan it With Us! Gatherings That Inspire Unforgettable Social Events

light gloss and without weighing it down or making it look heavy, greasy or stiff. A stylist’s

Call 915.342.1407

favorite, this product works just as well with straight or curly hair. Use on lightly damp hair and

BIANCA.ARREOLA@HILTON.COM

work it in gently to allow your hair to fall where it naturally lays for a soft feel and look.

$42 | oribe.com

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April, 2019

WITLEY COURT The Wondrous

| By: MARIE MOORE |

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April, 2019

E

very man’s home is his castle—at least that’s

This property was purchased by outsider

how the expression goes. That being

Thomas Foley I in 1655. The Foley family

said, I doubt many will take this

went on to occupy Witley for 183 years,

popular saying as seriously as the

expanding it into an elaborate mansion—with

owners of Witley Court.

porticoes designed by renowned architect

Located in Worcestershire, England, the

John

Nash—surrounded

by

landscaped

gardens in a park-like setting.

land on which Witley Court now stands was originally granted to Urso d’Abetot, a relative

They also replaced the parish’s deteriorating

of William the Conqueror. From the start, it

medieval church with a Renaissance-style

was destined to make an impressive imprint

building. Its stunning interior features ceilings

on British history.

painted by Antonio Bellucci and unique Italian silver chlorate/stained-glass fused windows.

Through a series of marriages and deaths,

www.thecitymagazineelp.com

Witley had many owners. Most notable are

Sadly, Thomas Foley VI was a gambler who

the Russells who acquired it in 1499 and

lost his family’s fortune and indebted his

stayed 150 years. In the early 1600s, they built

heirs. In 1837, his grandson was forced to sell

the significant Jacobean-style house which

the property to William Humble Ward, heir to

later became the centerpiece of the estate.

the Dudley fortune, for 890,000 pounds.

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April, 2019

t r av e l

Ward hired architect Samuel Daukes, woodcarvers James and William Forsyth and gardener William Nesfield to transform Witley Court into one of the most palatial estates in Europe. His son, a friend of King Edward VII, established their home as one of the most fashionable houses of the late Victorian age.

But in 1920, after its heyday hosting royalty and gentry alike, this same son sold Witley Court. His did so in a melancholy state caused by the sudden death of his wife.

Little could he have imagined the dismal future destined for his beloved home.

The property soon suffered a terrible fire and fell into ruination, plundered by demolition contractors and vandals. It wasn’t until much later in the century that Witley Court was partially restored and opened to the public. The restoration started in 1967 with a campaign to save the baroque church

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99

April, 2019 and finally, in 1972, the British government became guardian of the estate.

Today, visitors stroll across lush green grounds that surround the remains of Witley Court. Gone are the orangery, the topiary and garden pots—but you can still survey the view from the ramparts of well-preserved walls. Imagine an aristocratic group of ladies, framed by the Marquess of Bath and Countess of Dudley’s parasols. Behind them, the impressive Poseidon Fountain splashes a welcome mist and in one’s imagination, at least, the wondrous Witley Court lives on.

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April, 2019

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IN

IN

&

OUT

April, 2019

| By: PABLO DELGADILLO |

K-POP

If you haven’t heard about K-pop, you must be living under a rock. Korean pop music (K-pop) has taken over the world. Although some groups have tried their luck in America, it wasn’t until recently that they appeared everywhere, from the American Music Awards to the Grammys, while selling out massive arenas for their concerts. In 2019, you’ll be hearing a lot about K-pop, especially about the boy group BTS, who collaborated with Nicki Minaj, and girl K-pop group Blackpink—Dua Lipa is a huge fan!—so get in the loop!

Wardrobe Change Were you waiting to get in shape to be able to use that old sweater that doesn’t fit anymore? How about you donate it instead? There are different ways to go at it—you can donate your old but wellpreserved garments to a shelter near you, or, if you need an extra buck, you could take your clothes to a thrift store, or someplace like H&M, where they’ll compensate you with store credit.

Venomous Snake print has been slithering everywhere.

Boots, skirts, jackets, oh my! The print provides an edgier look to a more muted color palette. Pair a button-down blouse with a pencil skirt, or some thigh-high boots with some leather shorts to give your wardrobe a more charming yet dangerous makeover.

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April, 2019

OUT

WEDDING CAKES SPECIAL EVENTS QUINCEAÑERAS BAR MITZVAH

BIRTHDAY PARTIES CUSTOM CAKES LARGE ORDERS & CUPCAKES

Delivery Available

Too Much Streaming Nowadays it seems like everyone has been coming out with a streaming platform. The good old days where Netflix was the new kid in town are behind us, and now there’s a bigger pool of options. A lot of new content, original series and passwords to remember—but do we really need so many? Sadly, with more options, more payments are needed. Think wisely before you make your decision and always read the fine print!

Let’s get Social!

Behind Bars Soap bars are a thing of the past!

Avoid cleaning your body with a moldy soap full of hair and opt for a more sanitary alternative. A

smallcakeselpaso smallcakesep smallcakeselpaso@gmail.com

refreshing body wash is more cost effective and less yucky (although a loofa can get moldy pretty fast, so change it every month).

www.thecitymagazineelp.com

2900 N. Mesa St El Paso, TX 79902

915.307.4562 103

Lightning On My Feet

April, 2019

1 1/2 parts Reyka Vodka 2 parts pineapple juice 3/4 part Solerno Blood Orange 1/2 part fresh lemon juice Angostura bitters Shake, serve over crushed ice in rocks glass, garnish with a couple dashes of bitters.

L ST C LL 104

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D O O F A L E N R T O F T E O P S S 1 # R H U S O Y FRE April, 2019

(915) 307-2548 1700 N. ZARAGOZA #154 kingcrabseafood.com www.thecitymagazineelp.com

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’

C o olk ’s

April, 2019

l

Writer's

BLOCK co oks ne e d in s pirat ion to o

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April, 2019

WAFFLE IRON

I tots with

f you’ve followed me along this Cook’s Block journey, then you understand how significant breakfast is to me. It really is the most important meal of the day and I’m obnoxious about wanting

to bring it to the forefront of everything. What makes

smoked salmon & lemon crÈme FRAICHE

breakfast awesome for me is not having to spend all morning making it. This dish is easy, half of it is storebought, and it will taste like it took all your time and love to make it. Smoking fish has been used for centuries as a way to preserve its shelf life for later use. Luckily, we can get smoked salmon at any of our nearest grocery stores.

Take full advantage of ancient techniques in modern flavors and uses. Layering this dish with its different

Chef’s tip

| By: JESSE MAYNES |

Use sweet potato tots for added flavor.

2 four-ounce packages smoked salmon 1/2 red onion, thinly sliced

textures is what makes it special. The crunchy and savory tater tots, the silky-smooth smoked salmon, tangy capers and crème fraiche really cut through the heaviness of the potatoes. Throw some fresh dill and edible flowers on top and you have a five-star breakfast that not only looks impressive, but tastes amazing too. Spend this time in the warm weather cooking for those you love, eat outside and enjoy a slow morning with your people.

5 cups tater tots, thawed

For the Lemon Crème Fraiche 3/4 cup crème fraiche

1.

fraiche, 3 sprigs minced dill, lemon juice and zest, garlic powder,

3 sprigs fresh dill, minced 1 medium lemon, zested/juiced

Prepare crème fraiche (can be made a day early). Mix crème and a heavy pinch of salt/pepper. Stir to combine, cover and refrigerate.

2.

Using thawed tater tots, press 1 cup into a preheated and non-

1 teaspoon garlic powder

stick sprayed waffle iron. Let cook for 1 minute, open and fill gaps

Salt/pepper, heavy pinch

another 4-5 minutes until golden brown and crispy. Remove from

with a few more tater tots so you have a solid base. Cook for iron and set aside. Repeat until no more tater tots remain.

For the Fried Capers

3.

While tots cook, fry capers in 2 tablespoons of oil for 5-6 minutes on medium high heat. This removes some of the brine taste and

1 two-ounce jar capers, drained

gives the capers more texture. Once cooked and lightly browned,

2 tablespoons oil

set aside on a paper towel to drain excess oil.

4.

Assemble your plate in layers, first your tater tot waffle then smoked salmon. A few strips of sliced red onion and then the crème fraiche. Top with fried capers, fresh dill, and edible flowers for the perfect spring presentation.

www.thecitymagazineelp.com

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scene

We celebrated our March “Heroes & Animals” issue at The Holy Grail on March 14th with special canine guests from Paws For Love. We also celebrated our 3rd “After 50” magazine! | Photos by: JENN MÁRQUEZ |

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The City Weddings magazine was officially unveiled at the VIP Preview Party at Ella Blu on February 21st. Hosted by the El Paso Bridal

Showcase, guests enjoyed drinks and bites by EntrecĂ´te & Co. and jewelry prizes by Johnson Jewelers. | Photos by: JOSH SANCHEZ |

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scene

The KISS FM “El Paso Bridal Showcase” was hosted February 24th at EPIC Railyard Event Center.

Presented by Johnson Jewelers, this annual event showcased wedding vendors from across the city to help brides plan their dream wedding. | Photos by: JENN MÁRQUEZ |

www.thecitymagazineelp.com

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scene

El Paso came together to celebrate the winners of the Best of the City 2018 on February 23rd at the El Paso Convention Center, with proceeds benefitting Make-A-Wish El Paso.

Guests danced the night away to live music by the Ryan G Band. | Photos by: JENN MĂ RQUEZ |

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scene

A dramatic change in mood or personality is 1 of the 10 warning signs of Alzheimer’s disease.

Recognizing the symptoms is the first step toward doing something about it. For more information, and to learn what you can do now, go to alz.org/10signs or call 800.272.3900.

Calendar of Events A memory change that affects daily life is 1 of the 10 ange inwarning mood orsigns personality is 1 of the 10 warning signs of Alzheimer’s A memory change that affects daily life is 1 of the 10 warningdisease. signs of Alzheimer’s disease. Recognizing of Alzheimer’s disease. Recognizing e symptoms is the first step toward doing something about it.

For more information, June 21, 2019it.- The Day symptomsisis the the first step something about For Longest more information, and to learn the the symptoms steptoward towarddoing doing hat yousomething canwhat do now, go to alz.org/10signs or call 800.272.3900.

October 19, 2019 The Walk to End Alzheimer’s about it.

For more information, and to you can do now, go to alz.org/10signs or call 800.272.3900. learn what you can do now, go to alz.org/10signs or Contact: 915-544-1799 call 800.272.3900. www.thecitymagazineelp.com

117 ©2016 Alzheimer’s Association. All Rights Reserved.

Copyright © 2016. Alzheimer’s Association®. All rights reserved.

DENTISTRY FOR THE

ENTIRE FAMILY

17 + Yees of Exppience State-of-the-Art Technnogy Cosmetic Dentissy

April, 2019

PET OF THE

TCM Pet of the Month highlights our readers’ best friends!

MONTH

Toby

Owner: Alondra Miranda This is Toby. He is a 10-year-old mini Australian Shepherd.

He loves being pampered at the groomers and is addicted

to shopping at PetSmart. Most importantly, he enjoys being an Instagram star so follow him @tobylovesbacon!

OUR SERVICES: - Dental Exams & Cleanings - 3D Imaging & Digital X-rays - Same-Day Veneers, Crowns, Bridges - Composite (Tooth-Colored) Fillings - Take Home & In-Office Whitening - Dental Implant Restorations - Simple Extractions - Sports Guards & Night Guards - Nitrous Oxide Sedation (East Side Only)

Prrdly SSving El Paso!

West Side

840 E. REDD RD. BLDG. 1-B EL PASO, TX 79912 (915) 581 - 1771

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Accepting New Patients and Most Dental Insurance Please Call Us for More Information

Is your pet TCM’s next Pet of the Month?

Send a photo and short story with why you think your pet belongs in this page to kim@thecitymagazineelp.com.

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www.thecitymagazineelp.com

April, 2019

The Lifestyle You Deserve.

MAKE IT PERMANENT.

Just Visiting?

Las Lomas W/D Ready, 2 Playgrounds, Business Center 2-3 Bedrooms | Starting at $680

SUN HOLLOW Fitness Center, Business Center, W/D connections in select units 1-3 Bedrooms | Starting at $624

LAKE FAIRWAY Business Center 1-2 Bedrooms I Starting at $550

Spring Park Business Center, Fitness Center, W/D included in select units 1-3 Bedrooms | Starting at $740

Live el paso www.thecitymagazineelp.com

Butterfield Trail Right of Highway 54 1-3 Bedrooms & Townhomes Starting at $690

La Privada W/D Ready in select units 1-2 Bedrooms | Starting at $615

Terrace Hill Business Center, W/D Ready Studio, 1-2 Bedrooms Starting at $589

RIDGEMAR W/D Ready 1-3 Bedrooms | Starting at $670

Independence Place Business Center, Fitness Center, Pet Park, W/D included 1-4 Bedrooms | Starting at $915

desert peaks 2 Swimming Pools, Fitness Center, Fully Renovated Units Refrigerated A/C Coming Soon!

1-3 Bedrooms | Starting at $700

119

2019

APRIL

April 2019

The City Calendar

02

04 Ron White

Kermezaar Arts Fest

April 2-3 The Plaza Theatre

April 4 | 8 P.M. The Plaza Theatre

Previously nominated for 10 Tony Awards, this comedy follows the fictional Bottoms brothers, a pair of under-talented playwrights who struggle to compete with William Shakespeare.

You probably remember Ron White from the Blue Collar Comedy shows of the mid-2000s. Well, despite all the scotch, he’s still standing and he’s coming to El Paso this month. This show is sure to leave you in stitches, but you’re better off leaving the kids at home.

April 6-7 | 5 P.M. International Museum of Art

Admission: $30+

Admission: $43+

12

13 April 12-14 The Convention Center

April 13 | 2:30 P.M. Philanthropy Theatre

Admission: $55

Admission: $16+

April 21 | 1 P.M. Old El Paso County Jail Museum Part of the monthly Mission Trail Art Market, this Wild West reenactment promises to keep the whole family entertained. When the performance ends, make sure to check out the old county jail and surrounding missions!

Admission: Free

EPSO Presents Video Games Live April 13 | 8 P.M. Plaza Theatre Box Office If you like music and video games, then this concert is definitely for you.

Songs from Zelda, Final Fantasy, Mario, Kingdom Hearts, Skyrim and Pokemon will all be featured.

The El Paso Community Foundation brings back another season of its Jewel Box Series. Like in years past, expect an array of interesting shows that cover many themes.

26 Billy The Kid Breakout Show

Admission: $5 Military and kids under 5: Free

13

Indulge your fanboy or -girl desires at El Paso’s contribution to the internationally renowned convention series. It honestly has pretty much everything you’d expect from the original, Comic-Con San Diego.

21

Art, crafts, face painting and, of course, a ton of food trucks. This year’s rendition of Kermezaar is sure to be one for the books. Come join in on the fun!

Jewel Box Series Presents a Texas Tryptic

El Paso Comic Con

120

06

Something Rotten

Admission: $30+

26 The Drums April 26 | 7 P.M. The Lowbrow Palace The much talked about indie-pop group from New York City is coming to El Chuco Town. Check them out!

Admission: $25

Latin American Tour: Mariachi and Orchestra April 26-27 The Plaza Theatre These tunes will make you feel like you’re in the heart of Guadalajara. It’s rare to hear Mariachi of this caliber, so take advantage of the opportunity while it lasts!

Admission: 16+

www.thecitymagazineelp.com

April 2019

06

11 George Thorogood and the Destroyers

Morat April 11 | 8:30 P.M. The Plaza Theatre

April 6 | 8 P.M. The Plaza Theatre Join this classic rock band as they celebrate 45 years of existence.

Although old, this group still knows how to bring the house down.

These young Colombians have quickly established themselves as one of the world’s most important folk music groups. This night promises to be pure magic.

Admission: $39.50+

Admission: $40+

HAVE YOU HAD THOUGHTS

ABOUT SELLING

YOUR HOME?

It Takes Marketing Skills 16

19 For King and Country April 16 | 7 P.M. The Plaza Theatre Join these legends as they make their way through their Burn the Ships world tour. In addition to great songs, you can expect stunning visual effects and other theatrics

Admission: $20+

Friends, The Musical Parody April 19 | 7 P.M. The Plaza Theatre Great for those of us who don’t have time to binge watch all 10 seasons of “Friends” on Netflix, this production packs in all of the storied series’ highlights.

Admission: $19.50+

28 San Elizario Historic Tours April 28 | 12-1:30 P.M. The Plaza Theatre Every month, the San Elizario Historic District presents two free guided walking tours of the famous town square. Make sure to call ahead of time to ensure it’s still on, and wear your walking shoes!

More info: (915)851-0093

www.thecitymagazineelp.com

There’s no better time to make a move

CALL TODAY

915.525.5161 luiscarlosperez.com 121

El Paso/Las Cruces’ premier Lifestyle Magazine Pick up a copy of this month’s issue at your local Walgreens and check out THE CITY After 50 magazine, The City WEDDINGS magazine, THE CITY SPACES and Home & Design Magazine

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ur Guide!

915-500-5730 | thecitymagazineelp.com

Spring fashion

What’s Trending?

Chemical peel- Dermaplaning and Eyelash Specials, Call Now!

Master Hair Stylist | Nails | Skin | Wax | Makeup | Microblading | Massage

915.351.0032 | Mixsalonspa.com

915.629.7707 | MilanSalonandspa.com

August, 2018

DOWNTOWN

DOWNTOWN

Anson 11 $$-$$$

Park Tavern

303 N. Oregon St. Ste. 110 | (915) 504-6400

204 E. Mills Ave. | (915) 228-9050

Anson 11 is two exceptional dining experiences dedicated to the

From the same people that brought you 150 Sunset, Park Tavern is a

military man, the gentleman and the food connoisseur that was

new lunch and dining experience in downtown. With many options

Anson Mills. For a downtown dining experience like no other, Anson

available, from creamy chicken pasta to buttery fried fish, this new

11 is the restaurant to go to. PR, H

addition to the block is a welcoming place to satisfy your cravings.

$$

NORTHEAST

The Downtowner $$ 325 N. Kansas St. | (915) 532-5200 Eat like a downtowner. Found on the ground floor of the Hotel Indigo, The Downtowner offers breakfast, lunch and dinner - the only breakfast spot available in downtown El Paso. The restaurant delivers great American taste with a twist of our Southwest flair. Savor the amazing dishes offered on the menu and enjoy a cold and carefully crafted cocktail while enjoying the gorgeous views of downtown.

124

Prices: $ - Low Priced Patio/Outdoor Seating - O

$$ - Medium Range Dog Friendly- DF

Edge of Texas

$$$

8690 Edge of Texas St. | (915) 822-3343 Located in the far east, this is definitely worth the drive! Eat the best steak you’ve ever had and enjoy the saloon.

$$$ - High Priced $$$$ - Exquisite Dining Party/Private Room - PR Happy Hour - H

To highlight your local restaurant in The City Local Eats email: info@thecitymagazineelp.com

www.thecitymagazineelp.com

WESTSIDE August, 2018

Mi Piaci

WESTSIDE

Avila’s

$$$

$$

5411 N. Mesa, Suite 1 | (915) 875-0034

6232 N. Mesa St. | (915) 584-3621

Join Mi Piaci Ristorante Italiano for lunch or dinner with Chef/Owner

Winning Best Taco for Best of The City 2015 and Best Chips

Cosimo Baltaglia, who hails from Calabria, Italy, for the freshest

and Salsa in 2014, Avila’s has a savory Mexican menu that will

seafood, gourmet hand-cut Angus reserve steaks aged 21 days,

satisfy your cravings. We’re open for weekend breakfast, have

and gently homemade pasta from Italy. O

lunch specials available daily and a convenient pick-up window is accessible for family dinners on the go. PR

Jerusalem Grill $$

Westside’s 3rd Hole

5380 N. Mesa St. | (915) 500-4357

1035 Belvidere Suite 168 | (915) 584-5577

Jerusalem is a low-key eatery where you can find authentic gyros,

There’s no better place to relax and grab a bite to eat than W3H. Nominated

baba ghanoush, shish kababs and more. Their appetizer combo is

as El Paso’s best tacos, stop by today and see why we’re becoming El

complete with hummus, baba ghanoush, grape leaves, spanakopita

Paso’s go-to spot for catching a game and eating some good food. “We

and falafel. Your tastebuds will enjoy this retreat to an amazing

saved you a seat.” Now with NFL Sunday Ticket on all screens. O, H

$$

array of dishes.

Serving El Paso Authentic Italian Cuisine since 1948 • Private Party Room • Beer & Wine • Outside Dining • Live Music Thur. to Sat. • We cater large or small events

The State Line

$$

1222 Sunland Park Dr. I (915) 581-3371 Enjoying delicious authentic BBQ from The State Line. Based on four principles: offer the highest quality smoked BBQ, provide generous portions at affordable prices, offer friendly table and bar services and www.thecitymagazineelp.com celebrate the heritage of Texas. Come on by to enjoy!

Italian Kitchen West

$$

450 Thorn Ave. | (915) 842-0775 Enjoy boundless savory Italian classics either at their outdoor Italian.Kitchen.

Westpatio

or intimate and comfortable atmosphere inside.www.theitaliankitchenelpaso.com Italian Kitchen West m is doling out classic pizzas, mouth-watering pastas with great wine pairs and Italian meat entrees. Stay local, but enjoy the cuisine from 125 an ocean away. O, PR

UNIVERSITY/KERN

WESTSIDE

The Kitchen

August, 2018

Mesa Street Grill $$$

$$

150 Sunset | (915) 585-0801

3800 N Mesa St., Ste D1 | (915) 532-1881

Whether you’re looking for brunch, a quick lunch or a nice sit-down dinner

Mesa Street Grill introduces their newest dessert creation – the Pineapple

with views of El Paso’s sunsets, you will find all that you need at The

Crostata. This refreshing blend of pineapple, cinnamon and nutmeg is

Kitchen at 150 Sunset. Be sure to also check out our special wine dinners,

crowned with a cashew crumble and handmade sugar garnish. Taste this

with a specially curated menu and wine pairing. Come and treat yourself.

dessert once and it’s sure to become a summertime favorite. O, H, PR, H

P, H, DF, PR

Johnny Carino’s

Angry Owl Southwest Grill & Cantina

$$

$$

675 Sunland Park Dr. | (915) 581-7042

4799 N. Mesa St. | (915) 532-2450

1201 Airway Blvd. | (915) 778-7771

1700 N. Zaragoza Rd., Ste. 128 | (915) 300-1004

From traditional Italian dishes like Chicken Parmesan, to the more

This colorful Southwestern eatery offers mesquite-spiced, Mexican-

creative “Spiced Italian” fare like the Spicy Shrimp and Chicken and

inspired chow and potent cocktails. From seafood and ribs to fajitas

Jalapeno Garlic Tilapia, Johnny Carino’s has food and drinks to satisfy

and wings, you’ll find plenty of southwestern flavors to tempt your

your hunger for great food in a family-friendly atmosphere. H

palate. PR, H

EASTSIDE

Cattleman’s Steakhouse

$$$

King Crab $$$

3450 S. Fabens Carlsbad Rd. Fabens, TX 79838 | (915) 544-3200

1700 N. Zaragoza Suite 154 | (915) 849-8697

This is a family-style restaurant located on a 46 square mile working

You can’t get seafood like this anywhere else in El Paso. With Chef Pierre

ranch. Come savor our famous juicy steaks and mesquite-smoked BBQ while enjoying miles of desert scenery and spectacular sunsets! PR, O 126

bringing his Cajun home-style cooking from New Orleans, the seafood boils and dishes will leave your mouth watering for more. Fresh seafood www.thecitymagazineelp.com is brought in twice a week. Come in and try for yourself. PR, H

August, 2018

pacificahomesjj.com | pacificahomesjj@gmail.com

No credit? Bad credit? We finance!

www.thecitymagazineelp.com

Call JJ today at 915.740.9399

127

April, 2019

APRIL Advertiser INDEX Alzheimer’s Association............................................... Pg. 117

King Crab..................................................................... Pg. 105

Benjamin Law Firm........................................................ Pg. 14

KTSM............................................................................. Pg. 65

Casa Buenavista........................................................ Pgs. 6, 7

Lucchese Boots............................................................. Pg. 78

Connor Family Dentistry.............................................. Pg. 118

Luis Carlos Perez......................................................... Pg. 121

Cool Canyon Nights....................................................... Pg. 43

Mesa Street Grill............................................................ Pg. 81

Deutsch & Deutsch Jewelers........................................ Pg. 15

Mix/Milan Salon & Day Spa......................................... Pg. 123

DoubleTree by Hilton..................................................... Pg. 95

Nicholas Reyes Hair Salon............................................. Pg. 41

El Paso Behavioral Health System................................. Pg. 80

Ortho El Paso................................................................. Pg. 57

El Paso’s Children’s Hospital......................................... Pg. 61

Pacifica Homes............................................................ Pg. 127

El Paso Live................................................................... Pg. 54

Smallcakes................................................................... Pg. 103

El Paso Rhinos............................................................... Pg. 31

Southwest Plastic Surgery............................................ Pg. 13

El Paso Spine Center..................................................... Pg. 73

Southwest University at El Paso............................... Pgs. 2, 3

El Paso Water Softeners............................................... Pg. 75

Spectrum Technologies................................................. Pg. 91

Elyse Simons Beauty..................................................... Pg. 89

Sugar Skull Fashion Boutique........................................ Pg. 85

Farmers Insurance......................................................... Pg. 78

Sun City Orthopaedic & Hand Surgery Specialists........ Pg. 52

FPI Management......................................................... Pg. 119

Table Occasions............................................................. Pg. 79

GECU.................................................................... Inside Front

The Angry Owl............................................................... Pg. 40

Geico............................................................................. Pg. 25

The Hospitals of Providence.................................. Pgs. 11, 86

Grace the Psychic Lady................................................. Pg. 79

The Italian Kitchen West................................................ Pg. 89

Hunt Companies............................................................ Pg. 72

The State Line............................................................... Pg. 99

Indicium Display Network...................................... Pgs. 53, 93

Vanities Jewelry & Gifts, Inc............................................ Pg. 1

Inn of the Mountain Gods Resort and Casino................. Pg. 9

Vitalant........................................................................... Pg. 55

Intraceuticals............................................................... Pg. 101

Walgreens................................................................. Pgs. 4, 5

InVogue Rejuvenation.................................................... Pg. 67

Xcleaning Professionals................................................. Pg. 64

Johnny Carino’s Italian..................................................... Pg. 8

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