The City Magazine El Paso February 2019

El Paso’s

Your Way Into Shape

Burgeoning Medical Scene

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contents

February, 2019

FEBRUARY 2019 VOLUME 79

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IN THIS ISSUE: HIDDEN GEM...82

18

Dr. Erica Renee Alvarez LOCAL ONCOLOGIST BRINGS FIELD’S MOST ADVANCED TREATMENTS TO EL PASO

26

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ARTIST SPOTLIGHT...74

FITNESS...88

Features

Dr. Hans Brockhoff A MICROVASCULAR SURGEON LEADING THE WAY IN THE FIGHT AGAINST CANCER

32

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Dr. Alberto Maud ONE OF THE REGION’S TOP NEUROINTERVENTIONALISTS

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El Paso Anticipates It’s First Liver Transplant Program MEET THE DOCTORS WHO ARE MAKING IT HAPPEN

Here and Now

54

Dr. Lookman Lawal GET TO KNOW THIS CARDIOLOGIST/ ELECTROPHYSIOLOGIST AND HIS INCREDIBLE PACEMAKER 10

62

A New Reason To Smile TEXAS TECH GETS READY TO OPEN THE CITY’S FIRST DENTAL SCHOOL

66

Where Are They Now? JOSEPH CARRILLO’S METEORIC RISE THROUGH THE WORLD OF MAKEUP

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CONT RIBU TORS

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Erin Coulehan

El Paso’s

Your Way Into Shape

Burgeoning Medical Scene

WHAT IS

Kundalini

Yoga?

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eback on horsat th is...

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February, 2019

I

Editor-In-Chief

must admit, I am all too familiar with a few local doctors—I’ve had my fair

share of fractures, sprains, breaks and even an allergic reaction. I’ve been in

the trauma unit, flat lined and brought back to life. The doctors that have taken

care of me and glued me back together have really been like angels (I’ve seen

a few of those but that’s another story.) Admit it, we need doctors in our lives,

because life happens. Although we might wish we were, no one is invincible. This

month, our medical issue highlights some pretty spectacular doctors. Whether they

specialize in something that very few people in the United States do, or are using the newest technology in their field, they are El Pasoans through and through. They share the same passion for our city and its people.

Dr. Erica Renee Alvarez is only one of about 30 in the nation who specialize in ocular oncology (treating cancers of the eye.) She’s a hometown girl, and credits UTEP as a road to her success.

Then there’s Dr. Hans Brockhoff, whose specialty involves removing cancer from a patient’s face and performing the necessary reconstructive surgery that follows. And, we think our days are stressful!

The 4th biggest killer in the country and the leading cause of disability in adults is the dreaded word stroke. Dr. Alberto Maud is the head neurointerventionalist at UMC’s Primary Stroke Center. The specialty that he calls “high-tech plumbing,” stresses the importance of recognizing the signs of a stroke and the short window of time a patient has before he reaches treatment. These two things will make the difference in the potential irreparable damage a stroke causes.

There is pride in our medical community—in the specialties we have, in our medical school, in our hospitals and in the cutting-edge treatments we receive every day. These are our unsung heroes.

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February, 2019

2017 2016

2015 2014 2013

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

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February, 2019

CIRCA SESSIONS This fall, our expert bartenders Paco an d Hugo will relea s e signature drinks inspired by El Paso’s history, events, art and culture. Come raise your glass with us at Circa 1963 and learn how to create the cocktails yourself at TheFifthStory.com.

Charity Register

FEBRUARY Opportunities to Give & Support

Nun Run for the Nuns of Pakistan February 2, 9:00 am | Loretto High School Organized by Loretto’s senior class, this 5K race/walk benefits a sister Pakistani catholic school. Last year, the proceeds were used to buy new desks and other school supplies. All age groups are welcome and the first 350 finishers will be awarded free shirts.

Feline Fridays!

Every Friday in February | Humane Society of El Paso Each Friday, the Humane Society lowers adoption costs for cats. Adoption costs are only $50 for kittens under 16 weeks, and there is a surcharge of $12.50 for ones older than 16 weeks.

Adoption fees cover spay/neuter procedures, vaccinations, microchips and Leukemia testing.

Come find the purr-fect cat for your home!

Polar Plunge | January 2, 9:00-11:00 AM Wyndham El Paso Airport Hotel Pool Come support your local Special Olympic athletes by raising money at their annual Polar Plunge. Supporters will be able to raise money from friends, family and coworkers in exchange for being dunked in the icy cold waters of the airport pool. For more information email Marsha Baray at mbrary@sotx.org or by calling 915-533-8229.

El Paso Fire Truck Pull | February 23, 2019 Fire Fighters Academy - Ascarate Park Channel your inner American Gladiator and get ready to tug! Each team must comprise 10 members, include at least one female and raise $250 or more. The groups will all get a chance at pulling a 55,000-lb fire truck. Fans are encouraged to cheer on the brave participants! All money will go to the Special Olympics of Texas.

Run With Your Doc February 23 | 1 Mile Dash: 8:00 am 5K and 10K: 8:30 am Dona Ana Community College-East Mesa Campus Have you ever dreamt of running side-by-side with your doctor? Me neither, but here’s your chance! The 10k/5k/1-mile runs all benefit the Amador Health Center.

16 E F IF TH S TO RY.CO M TH

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February, 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

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February, 2019

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E r i c a R e n e e A lva r e z , M . D .

February, 2019

Erica Renee Alvarez, M.D. Medical Retina and Ocular Oncology Specialist, AND El Paso’s “Unicorn”

A

| By: VERONICA NEVAREZ photography by: TOMMIE MORELOS |

proud El Paso native, Dr. Erica Renee Alvarez has returned to her home in rare form. A graduate of Covenant Christian Academy (CCA), she points to charity endeavors through her faith-based high school—including donating her time as a volunteer fire fighter and as an emergency room volunteer—as early catalysts for her interest in medicine. Upon graduation, Dr. Alvarez enrolled at the University of Texas at El Paso. Initially

unsure of which path within the medical field she’d seek—she considered nursing among others—she credits her UTEP pre-medical advisor and mentor, Donna Ekal, Ph.D., for helping to solidify her interest in pursuing medical school. Ultimately, the decision led Dr. Alvarez, a medical retina and ocular oncology specialist, to become the first of her family to graduate from college, let alone medical school. Today, her specialty for treating cancers of the eye places her in the upper echelons of the medical field, as one of roughly 30 ocular oncologists in the entire nation.

The 2008 UTEP cum laude microbiology graduate immediately went on to pursue her M.D. as one of only forty students selected out of 4,000 total applicants to the Paul L. Foster School of Medicine at Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center (TTUHSC) El Paso, and graduated among the original “Founding Class of 2013.” This led to an impressive list of highly-extensive trainings, including an internship in internal medicine at the University of Chicago’s NorthShore Health System, an ophthalmology residency at Howard University Hospital and a medical retina and ocular oncology fellowship at The Ohio State University. The rigor of general ophthalmology academics aside, applicants for sub-specialties like medical retina and ocular oncology must also pass two exams: a comprehensive eye exam that looks for impeccable color and 3-D vision in their residents, and a test for superior eye-hand coordination. These ensure they possess the microscopic precision and dexterity needed in the operating room. Dr. Alvarez passed all of the above with flying colors!

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E r i c a R e n e e A lva r e z , M . D .

February, 2019

Today, aside from treating the entire Southwest region from El Paso to Scottsdale, she holds the title of Clinical Instructor of Ophthalmology for the Department of Surgery at the Paul L. Foster School of Medicine. In fact, her longawaited return home came by way of a recruitment effort initiated by TTUHSC, whose faculty had nicknamed Dr. Alvarez “the unicorn.” As a rarity in her field, Dr. Alvarez says she finds it hugely rewarding to provide some of the most specialized care available, right here in her own beloved home town and to a community that she clearly had never forgotten.

Diagnosing and treating eye cancer—the most common being uveal melanoma—is what Dr. Alvarez devotes her practice to and whereby she’s introduced our region to some of the most cutting-edge therapies around. Being extraordinarily equipped at providing patients with the most innovative therapies—one in particular known as Eye Plaque Brachytherapy—Dr. Alvarez refers to it as one of the most important medical advances of our

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February, 2019

E r i c a R e n e e A lva r e z , M . D .

day. The effect of plaque brachytherapy is to “sanitize”

“I would say El Paso in general is a very unique city. In a lot of ways, it’s like a diamond in the rough … unless you’ve had the great pleasure of being here you don’t know what a fantastic city it is.” www.thecitymagazineelp.com

or kill off cancer cells directly at the site of the tumor, and most importantly, it works to save a patient’s eye, greatly improving their quality of life and even prolonging it. There’s also the latest genetic research that uses cytogenetics, or the “molecular analysis” of cancerous tumors, which she also incorporates into her practice to assess genetic risk in patients. Dr. Alvarez explains that the implementation of genetic research to the treatment of ocular cancer in patients is now considered the goldstandard in therapy within the medical world.

With regard to her return to El Paso, Dr. Alvarez says: “I would say El Paso in general is a very unique city. In a lot of ways, it’s like a diamond in the rough … unless you’ve had the great pleasure of being here you don’t 21

E r i c a R e n e e A lva r e z , M . D .

February, 2019

know what a fantastic city it is. We have such a wonderful, unique patient population … [it’s] very family-oriented.” She adds, “Being away in training, I really wanted to come back to that community and be, of course, with my family, but most importantly, here with this patient population. [There is] a very large need to have services here in all aspects of medicine, not just ophthalmology ... we still are very much a medically-underserved community.” Moreover, Dr. Alvarez asserts that one of the biggest objectives for TTUHSC is to address this welldocumented need not only through its medical school programs, but in recruiting top physicians to our city from other areas.

All in all, it’s clear from Dr. Alvarez’s work, alongside progressive institutions like TTUHSC and the Paul L. Foster School of Medicine, that El Paso is on its way to providing care built upon the most innovative advances within the world of medicine today. In her role as a Clinical Instructor of Ophthalmology at the Paul L. Foster School of Medicine, Dr. Alvarez eagerly looks to develop an ophthalmology residency program for the medical school and says: “We want to be able to build this department up, bring in more great talent to the city and address those patient-care needs that we have … To be part of that would be fantastic.”

The mythical unicorn is a symbol of healing and protection, and leads us to conclude that as El Paso’s “unicorn,” Dr. Erica Renee Alvarez is a most fortunate catch for our city and proves that seeing IS believing!

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February, 2019

| By:H ENRY | VER C RA

Championships by Meek Mill Rapper Meek Mill’s first full-length album since completing his highly publicized two-year incarceration, Championships is sure to please longtime fans. As always, the Philadelphia standout delivers highenergy verses over catchy beats. This time, however, the lyrics are more profound than in albums past, soberly detailing Mills’ difficult childhood and subsequent troubles with the law.

Isolation by Kali Uchis Kali Uchis’ debut album is an experimental masterpiece that defies traditional genre tags. The Colombian-American songstress combines old school influences with futuristic tunes to create a delightfully novel sound. Long under the radar, Uchis is almost certain to turn into an industry mainstay with this album.

Some Rap Songs by Earl Sweatshirt This might have been the best hip-hop album of 2018, seriously. It’s such a pleasure to hear Sweatshirt explore the rugged, jazz heavy riffs, dropping characteristic dark puns throughout.

Worried fans can breathe a sigh of relief, the former OFWGKTA prodigy is back, and he’s better than ever.

A Brief Inquiry Into Online Relationships by The 1975 Hold the eulogy, rock isn’t dead just yet. The 1975, comprising a charmingly stereotypical cast of North England rockers, has somehow succeeded in creating a humorous and highly listenable record on a morose set of topics, ranging from internet induced isolation to the culture wars.

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February, 2019

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Dr. Hans Brockhoff

February, 2019

Dr. Hans Brockhoff On the Front Lines of the Battle Against Cancer

A

| By: HOPE ALEGRE photos courtesy of: DR. BROCKHOFF |

natural love and curiosity for science and learning, coupled with a passion to connect with and help people, created the energy that catapulted Dr. Hans Brockhoff into his current practice. Now a head and neck and

microvascular surgeon, he’s a partner at High Desert Oral and Facial Surgery. He attended dental school at the University of Southern California before enrolling at the UT Southwestern Medical School in Dallas. The young doctor did his residency and training at Dallas’ Parkland Hospital and attained his fellowship in head and neck and vascular surgery at the University of Michigan Ann Arbor.

Dr. Brockhoff moved to El Paso, Texas four years ago with a drive that has allowed him to provide services and a certain level of specialized surgery previously unavailable in this region. “It not only is a privilege, but an honor … it is a collective team that help makes this possible,” he says.

Although his expertise encompasses a wide variety of afflictions, he’s become especially renowned for operating on cancerous tumors. His typical surgery involves two components: complex operations—including transplants—to remove the cancer, and subsequent reconstructive microvascular surgery. In order to restore the original form and function of the patient’s face, Dr. Brockhoff works with a company and biomedical engineer to review the patients’ CT scans to create a highly specialized plan of action. Included are 3D models and cutting guides that tell the doctor exactly where cuts should go. “This is a very innovative technique that is very exciting and gives patients a very close to ideal and optimum outcome,” Dr. Brockhoff says.

To rebuild facial structures, Dr. Brockhoff employs a technique known in the medical field as “free flap.” Bone or soft tissue

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February, 2019

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Dr. Hans Brockhoff

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Dr. Hans Brockhoff

February, 2019

Photo by Oak & Honey Photography is taken from some other part of the body

far to receive such treatment—especially

and moved to the recipient site. Circulation is

difficult considering the many follow-up

temporarily cut off when the tissue is removed,

appointments required after such dramatic

however, blood flow is later reestablished

and life-changing surgery.

with a small suture. Once the transplant has been done, blood vessels are sewn together

Always ambitious, Dr. Brockhoff emphasizes

around the site with the help of a microscope.

his plans to establish the city, and the adjacent

Recently connected, the vessels revive the

region, as a center of excellence for head

transplanted tissue with fresh blood.

and neck cancer and reconstructive surgery.

Having surrounded himself with a talented

Dr. Brockhoff and his team give patients a

team over the last four years, he’s well on his

reason for optimism during very scary times.

way. “Hopefully other people will come into

Thanks to his heroics, they, and their loves

the city [El Paso] to help facilitate the growth

ones, can return to normalcy. Before his

of this type of practice,” Dr. Brockhoff says.

arrival, El Pasoans had to travel long and 30

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February, 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

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For more information, go to vitalant.org

February, 2019

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Dr. Alberto Maud

February, 2019

Dr. Alberto Maud Saving Lives, One Brain At A Time

I

| By: Written and Photographed By: HENRY CRAVER |

magine this scenario: You’re on a plane from Los Angeles to Houston, finally headed home after a stressful business trip. Shortly after takeoff, you start to feel a bit dizzy—not so unusual during

the initial ascent. But the feeling just keeps getting worse, so you decide to call over a flight attendant for help. You try to press the call button but your right arm is completely unresponsive. Now panicking, you turn to your neighbor to ask for help. What comes out of your mouth, however, is nothing more than slurred drivel, completely incomprehensible.

The flight crew is alerted and, soon after, they decide to make an emergency landing in El Paso. You’re rushed to a nearby hospital where it’s discovered that you’re suffering from a massive ischemic stroke. From there they transfer you to the University Medical Center’s stroke center, arriving an hour and 55 minutes after the symptoms began. In a race against time, the center’s team gets to work right away, successfully removing the clot and repairing the damaged artery within just 50 minutes. Thanks to their heroics, you’re back home in Houston just three days later and, with a little bit of therapy, you’ll be good as new in no time.

That’s a true story and the man who saved the patient’s life was none other than Dr. Alberto Maud, the Stroke and NeuroIR Program medical director and head

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Photo Courtesy of TTUHSC El Paso 33

February, 2019

“If you have an episode where you have difficulty speaking, vision problems, clumsiness ... call 911 right away ...

The earlier you get treatment, the better the prognosis.�

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February, 2019

Dr. Alberto Maud

neurointerventionalist at UMC’s Advanced

depending on the diagnosis. In case of an

relevant treatment, from neuro-intervention

Primary Stroke Center. A native of Cordoba,

aneurysm—when a bulge forms on the side

to occupational therapy.

Argentina, he arrived at the Paul Foster

a vessel—a coil is inserted into the pocket

School of Medicine in 2010 and immediately

to prevent more blood from entering. If an

Having such a facility in close proximity is

established himself as a driving force in

artery is blocked, clot buster can be deployed

great news for El Pasoans. Stroke is the

the city’s medical landscape. His specialty

directly or, if that’s not enough, the clot can

4th biggest killer in the country, taking over

is called neurointervention, a procedure in

literally be pulled out and a stent is used to

137,000 lives every year, and is the leading

which a catheter is threaded through arteries

permanently prop open the artery.

cause of disability in adults. Time is the biggest factor when it comes to mitigating

in either the groin or forearm, and pushed all the way up into the brain—Dr. Maud calls it

Under the guidance of Director Dr. Salvador

the harm brought on by stroke. The chance of

“high-tech plumbing.” Then, a sort of dye is

Cruz-Flores, Dr. Maud and his colleagues

irreparable damage goes up each minute that

pumped from the catheter into the brain’s

impressive work led to a Level 1 certification

the brain goes without oxygen. UMC’s stroke

vessels before taking a series of radiographs

from the Joint Commission in 2017, the

center makes it possible for patients to get

that show the doctor what and where the

most prestigious accreditation for stroke

help within the “golden hour,” the first 60

predicament is. Once identified, a tiny wire is

centers. Basically, UMC’s stroke program is

minutes following symptom onset when the

run through the catheter to the problem area

as comprehensive as they come, boasting

stroke is most manageable. For that reason,

where a number of tools can be deployed

the latest technology and every kind of

Dr. Maud stresses the importance of taking

www.thecitymagazineelp.com

35

Dr. Alberto Maud

36

February, 2019

www.thecitymagazineelp.com

February, 2019 immediate action, telling El Pasoans: “If you have an episode where you have difficulty speaking, vision problems, clumsiness ... call 911 right away ... The earlier you get treatment, the better the prognosis.”

The advantages UMC provides to El Paso go beyond direct treatment. Dr. Maud and his academic partners at the medical school are busy cultivating a future generation of competent neurologists. The school’s medical students, many of them from the borderland, benefit from the staff’s unparalleled expertise and hands-on training with the field’s most advanced equipment. Dr. Maud explained that the school has already made an impact, saying: “It is not a coincidence that El Paso has

gotten

two

comprehensive

stroke

centers since the Texas Tech school opened in 2007.” Moving forward, Dr. Maud predicts that his students will continue to build upon the center’s legacy, cementing El Paso as a stalwart in stroke treatment.

REAL. LOCAL. SAVINGS. See how much you could save on car insurance today.

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February, 2019

Kundalini Yoga, The Ancient Indian “Science” Comes To El Paso | By: HENRY CRAVER photography by: SAZHRAH GUTIERREZ |

M

y local barista, a new-agey type,

Although many of us tend to see it as

three weeks, the depression was gone and

tells me he’s heard whispers around

nothing more than glorified stretching—and

I’ve never gone back to feeling like that.”

town that a powerful spiritual healer

that’s certainly part of it—yoga is actually an

walks among us. She bears an

umbrella term for a diverse set of physical,

Paramdayal moved back to El Paso not long

exotic name and came to our desert town

mental, and spiritual practices with different

after becoming a certified instructor and

from faraway lands for reasons unknown.

religious and philosophical underpinnings.

has been helping her students ever since.

Exceedingly reclusive, the mystic shews

Kundalini is one of the lesser known strands–

Many of her followers share similar stories

away most of those who seek her out,

Hatha being the most popular in the U.S.

of incredible recoveries. Traci Presley, a local

giving no explanation as to why. The select

Often referred to as the “Yoga of Awareness,”

psychotherapist, started practicing Kundalini

few who do gain admittance to her dwelling

Kundalini teaches its practitioners to tap

following a long battle with breast cancer. She

reemerge months later with a new glimmer

into a supposed knowledge that lies deep

claims that the practice has brightened her

in their eyes, fundamentally changed forever.

within the subconscious through meditation,

outlook, curing her crippling depression and

physical poses, chanting, and even listening

chemo-induced aches. “I call Kundalini natural

to gong music, or ”gong baths.”

Xanax, a natural high … better than drugs,”

I reached out to Paramdayal Kaur, the lady in

she texted me after our phone conversation.

question, and it turns out that she’s a friendly El Paso-based yoga teacher, not some kind of

Paramdayal points to her own personal

wandering witch. As with many false rumors,

history as proof of Kundalini’s miraculous

Paramdayal did warn me, however, that the

however, there is some truth to that far-

healing powers. Struggling with depression

raw experiences her yoga inspires can prove

fetched tale. Although she grew up between

and various physical ailments, she spent

too intense for some people. If you truly

California and El Paso, Paramdayal traveled

over a decade scouring the world for a cure.

feel that you’re ready, check out the yogi’s

the world as a young woman studying

Everything she tried, from prescription anti-

facebook for more information:

different spiritual traditions and training

depressants to various spiritual retreats, only

facebook.com/KundaliniYogaHeart

with numerous gurus. Along the way, she

gave her temporary relief. That was until she

discovered Kundalini Yoga, the practice she

met a Kundalini master who offered to teach

and her students now tout as an antidote to

her the ancient art. She explained that the

just about every imaginable ailment.

profound benefits came quick: “In less than

38 www.thecitymagazineelp.com

38 www.thecitymagazineelp.com

February, 2019

www.thecitymagazineelp.com

39

Leading the Region February, 2019

40

www.thecitymagazineelp.com

February, 2019

El Paso Anticipates its First

Liver Transplant Program | By: ZAK HANSEN photography by: JOHN HORTA |

www.thecitymagazineelp.com

41

T

First LiveR Transplant Program

February, 2019

enet Healthcare Corp. and The Hospitals of Providence (THOP) - Memorial Campus are bringing together a world-class team

of doctors, surgeons and specialists for El Paso’s first-ever liver transplant program, set to begin in late 2019. Nationwide, liver disease is on the rise, affecting between 20 and 40 percent of the U.S. population—as many as 30 million people. When left untreated, the liver eventually stops functioning, at which point a transplant is needed. This can happen suddenly, called acute liver failure, or over time as a result of viral hepatitis or druginduced injury or infection.

In 2016, there were 7,841 liver transplants

Dr. Rubén Ramírez-Vega, a Borderlands

our patients will now be able to get the final

native with specialized training in transplant

piece of care right here in El Paso.” “I’ve had

the liver transplant waiting list nationwide.

hepatology. Dr. Ramírez-Vega has been

to send these patients to Dallas, San Antonio

in private practice in El Paso since 2015,

or Houston to receive their transplants and it

Despite great demand, there are just 164

as well as serving as Medical Director for

can be very taxing on the patient and family

Gastroenterology and Liver at the Hospitals

both emotionally and financially.”

in the U.S., a 10 percent year-over-year increase, with more than 10,000 people on

transplant centers nationwide. While no liver transplant program currently exists in the area, the need does. In fact, El Paso has had

of Providence – Memorial Campus.

“For patients, being able to be close to home In our interview, Dr. Reznichenko highlighted

and have family support is a tremendous

disease deaths in Texas each year since 2003.

the transplant program’s urgency. “This is

part of the healing process. For many

a program that is desperately needed in El

patients, it can become a financial burden to

With high rates of obesity, diabetes and

Paso,” he said. “El Paso is a big city with

have to travel out of town and they may not

one of the highest incidents of liver disease

be able to have family accompany them,”

anywhere in the United States. It is imperative

said Dr. Reznichenko.

the first or second highest rate of chronic liver

Hepatitis C—the top cause of liver disease nationwide—El Pasoans are especially at risk. Viruses, untreated medical conditions,

that patients have access to a liver transplant program of the highest caliber that allows

Dr. Ramírez-Vega said he feels a particular

liver over time.

them to receive their care here locally.”

pride in helping bring this program home.

To address this growing crisis, THOP

With his focus on gastroenterology and

“I love El Paso and the people here, it’s

hepatology, Dr. Ramírez-Vega sees the

my home,” he said. “Being able to bring

need for such a program every day. “With a

healthcare resources here and take care of our

combined population of close to two million

residents with the healthcare they deserve is

in West Texas, New Mexico and Mexico, we

an incredible journey to be a part of.”

alcohol and a high-fat diet also damage the

recruited Russian-trained hepatobiliary—a specialist in the liver, gallbladder, bile ducts or bile—and transplant surgeon Dr. Aleksandr A. Reznichenko to lead the charge. Boardcertified with more than 20 years of surgical experience,

Dr.

Reznichenko

completed

his Transplant Surgery Fellowship at the University of Cincinnati College of Medicine, Division of Transplantation – Department of Surgery. In his three years in Cincinnati, Dr. Reznichenko took part in more than 140 liver transplants, about 20 of which he performed as the lead transplant surgeon.

Joining Dr. Reznichenko is gastroenterologist 42

have to have the health resources readily available to treat and care for our patients,”

While Dr. Ramírez-Vega brings this program

he said. “Seeing first-hand the prevalence of

to the place of his birth, Dr. Reznichenko,

liver disease here in our community, this is a

settling into El Paso with his family, looks

program that has been much needed.”

forward to providing this level of healthcare in his adopted home. “El Paso is a wonderful

Establishing the program here at home will

city filled with rich culture,” said Dr.

be a boon for those 25 to 40 patients every

Reznichenko. “My family and I have felt very

year forced to make the trek to out-of-town,

welcomed, and I feel proud to be part of the

or even out-of-state, to transplant centers.

medical community here and to be able to

For Dr. Ramírez-Vega, the program “means

help build a much-needed program.” www.thecitymagazineelp.com

February, 2019

Dr. Aleksandr A. Reznichenko

Dr. Rubén Ramírez-Vega

43

#EPStateofMind

February, 2019

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

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February, 2019

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45

Top Doctors

Profiles

Dr. Dean Smith El Paso Spine Center 10400 Vista Del Sol, Ste. 204 El Paso, Texas 79925 (915) 857-6699 epspinecenter.com

Dean E. Smith, MD Dean E. Smith, MD is one of the Southwest’s most prominent spine

There’s no secret to the accomplishments. Dr. Smith is an expert in

surgeons. He has lead medical innovation in the region since 1993

minimally invasive procedures that allow for more precise corrections,

when, right out of medical school, he left his native California for a job

fewer complications and shorter recovery times. The Spine Center

offer from a medical group in the Sun City. He stayed with the group

has implemented cutting edge surgical technology since its inception

until deciding to open the El Paso Spine Center in 2005. The venture

and quickly adopts the field’s latest innovations such as 3D imaging,

would prove to be an amazing success, cementing Dr. Smith’s place

specialized lasers, miniature cameras and robotic surgery tools. Dr.

in the city’s medical landscape. For over 13 years, the practice has

Smith and his team focus on the needs of each individual patient,

garnered a reputation for results and hospitality, boasting a 99%

taking time to understand their unique needs and develop an effective

patient recommendation rate and a 95+% success rate.

treatment plan for every person who walks into the clinic.

By: HENRY CRAVER photographed by: JOHN HORTA

SPECIAL ADVERTISING | 47

Teresa Marquez-Smith, M.D. This summer will mark the 25th anniversary of Dr. Marquez-Smith’s pediatric practice. However, her history in the area actually stretches back much further. Born and raised on the Eastside, Dr. MarquezSmith didn’t come from a family of medical practitioners. On the contrary, her family was blue-collar, mom working as a seamstress and dad as a Sears salesman. An especially precocious kid, she decided to become a pediatrician at the age of 16 when her school took a field trip to William Beaumont Army Medical Center to observe an autopsy. From that moment on, she pursued a career in medicine with undying determination. The hard work earned her full academic scholarship offers from Stanford University and UTEP. She decided to stay local.

After graduating from UT Health San Antonio’s med-school and doing residency there, Dr. Marquez-Smith returned home to El Paso to open her own practice. She’s been treating our community’s children ever since. Beyond her expertise, families choose Dr. Marquez-Smith because she and her staff make them feel welcome and well looked after. A proud grandmother herself, she understands the fears and concerns of children and their loved ones. A quarter of a century under her belt, Dr. Marquez-Smith looks forward to watching another generation of kids grow up under her care.

Teresa Marquez-Smith, M.D. 11331 James Watt, Ste. 600 El Paso, Texas 79936 (915) 838-1400

48 | SPECIAL ADVERTISING

By: HENRY CRAVER photographed by: JENN MÁRQUEZ

Dr. Maria Botez Even as a young girl growing up in Romania, Dr. Maria Botez always knew she wanted to be an MD. She worked hard to make her dream come true, graduating from the country’s top medical school in 1994. Of course, life doesn’t usually work out as planned and, just after finishing her residency, the family decided to immigrate to the United States. The move didn’t nullify her degree, but it meant she’d have to pass a series of strenuous exams before doing another residency. However, none of that would deter the young doctor. She passed with flying colors and soon began an internal medicine residency in New York.

From there she took a job in Oklahoma, before finally coming to the Sun City in 2008. After successful stints at The Hospitals of Providence and Las Cruces’ Memorial Hospital, Dr. Botez decided to open her own internal medicine practice in 2011.

Although she sees many types of patients at her Eastside office, Dr. Maria Botez has established herself as a specialist in the prevention and management of diabetes. She and her team principally use diet and exercise to combat the disease, only turning to medication when necessary. Her ultimate goal is to significantly reduce the rate of Type 2 diabetes in El Paso within the next five years.

Dr. Maria Botez EEP Internal Medicine 11170 La Quinta Pl., Ste. A El Paso, Texas 79936 (915) 591-3900

By: HENRY CRAVER photographed by: DAVID PARISH

SPECIAL ADVERTISING | 49

El Paso Behavioral Health System The mission of El Paso Behavioral Health System is to provide a

only program, and a military-specific program for active duty military,

supportive, compassionate, and innovative environment of patient-

veterans and their dependents.

centered care. Our knowledge and expertise in the field of behavioral health and chemical dependency care is dedicated to improving life

El Paso Behavioral Health is the only facility in the region that offers

in our community and providing superior quality healthcare services.

Electroconvulsive Therapy (ECT), which is among the safest and most effective treatments for depression. ECT works when psychotherapy

We treat patients who experience thoughts of suicide, depression,

and antidepressant medications are unsuccessful.

anxiety and addiction, and help to restore a positive emotional state by teaching communication, coping skills and self-awareness.

With three city-wide outpatient locations and our main location, we will continue to grow to serve the needs of our expanding El Paso community.

After a no-cost initial assessment, we develop an individualized treatment plan that may involve Inpatient, Partial Hospitalization and/or an Intensive Outpatient Program. Our compassionate and

El Paso Behavioral Health System

experienced team of Psychiatrists, licensed therapists, nurses and

1900 Denver Avenue

support staff create a safe atmosphere of health, hope and healing.

El Paso, TX 79902

El Paso Behavioral Health offers comprehensive programs for children,

(915) 544-4000

adolescents, adults, seniors, substance use disorder, a women’s

(800) 967-3411

50 | SPECIAL ADVERTISING

Photographed by: JOHN HORTA

915.504.9269 140 Montecillo Suite b-1 nicholasreyeshair.com

| By: MICHELLE CROMER |

There’s a crack in everything, that’s how the light gets in.

52

-Leonard Cohen

spiritualit y

fter yet another surgery, this time to

I was guided to move and chant and, as I

remove seven tumors, I felt as if I

did, my friends and family entered and joined

had a bloody lip from all the fights

me. As we chanted together, I realized that I

I had been having with my life. I

have a conscious partnership with my friend,

knew my physical scars would heal quickly—

and with everyone in my temple, and this

they always do—but I was also concerned

ceremony was not just for me but also for the

about the deep crack left in my spirit.

cracks in all of our hearts. I thought of the old Japanese practice of “kintsugi,” or golden

Luckily, an unlikely friend stepped in to offer

repair. This is an ancient ceramic art practice

his guidance and support. He walked into my

where, when something valuable cracks or

heart as if he belonged there and helped my

breaks, it is repaired carefully and lovingly

spirit heal by encouraging me to lie down

in a way that adds value. The cracks in the

with it. The hurt. The heartache. The hate.

ceramic pieces are filled in with gold. Beauty

To get close to it, taste it and understand it,

appears exactly where the worst faults

so I could define it before it defined me. He

previously existed and the golden scars add

gently touched my soul like a whisper and

to the living story and value to the container.

found the places that were broken. He stayed

Like any genuine process of healing, golden

right beside me until the fractured places

repair requires that we first acknowledge and

became crevices; the crevices became thin

carefully study the exact faults and divisions

white scars that I can only barely remember.

that damage the sacred vessels of our lives.

My friend, a trained practitioner in guided

I realized that my friends and family did

meditation suggested we go on an inward

not show up to heal me, or to prevent my

journey into my mind in order to further

wounds or to rebuild the damage made to my

heal me, emotionally and physically. The

body. They were there as my gold, filling up

introspectiveness of meditation is intriguing

my cracks, making me whole again because

to me—perhaps because I feel like an old

each of them had golden qualities and unique

soul dwells inside of me, as if it has lived in

love for me, so each of them had the capacity

a thousand bodies before me. I fall in love

to “golden repair” me.

everyday with something new, and with people I have never met. Yet everything and

I emerged a true and different work of art, with

everyone seems vaguely familiar.

my own story and beauty. Thanks to my unique cracks, my scars became what to exhibit. They

As I listened, he guided me into a temple which

make me distinctive as well as beautiful.

was at first deserted. A diffused bluish light was beaming through the pillared alley, which made

The kintsugi technique taught me the

an eerie contrast with the white halo beaming

essence of art, and that each of my scars

from the brass sculpture on the central altar. I

and cracks tells a meaningful story. They

could smell a heavy fragrance of incense and

are reminders of times when life tried to

the sound of chimes could be heard in the

break me, but failed. They are the markings

distance. This place did not feel like a world of

of where the structure of my character was

fantasy, everything I could see was so real, the

welded, with gold.

material so substantial and yet so impenetrable.

53

February, 2019

54

www.thecitymagazineelp.com

February, 2019

Dr. Lookman Lawal

The First in our Region to Use Groundbreaking Technology

F

| By: LAUREN MACIAS-CERVANTES photography by: JENN MÁRQUEZ | or centuries the heart has been

recognized as the symbol for love,

Assistant Professor of Medicine at the Burrell

College

of

Osteopathic

Medicine at New Mexico State

but most people rarely recognize

University. His practice isn’t

the fist-sized organ as a symbol

limited to state lines, with

for the electrical powerhouse

offices in Las Cruces and

it really is.

El Paso. Dr. Lawal also “The heart pumps blood to

works with many regional

all parts of the body,” says

hospitals and is the director of the Southwestern Cardiac

Dr. Lookman Lawal. “Every

Arrhythmia Institute.

heart beat starts with an electric current within the heart.

Helping patients live healthier

The heart cannot function without

lives is what the heart doctor enjoys

this intrinsic electricity.”

the most: Unfortunately,

not

everyone’s

heart

can do the job on its own. Cardiologist and electrophysiologist, Dr. Lawal has been helping patients with their heart health for two decades.

“As a cardiologist, I specialize in treating various heart diseases,” Lawal explains. “As an electrophysiologist, I have additional training in treating patients with heart rhythm disorders such as atrial fibrillation and other abnormal heart rhythm problems.”

It was the amazing functionality of the heart that drew the heart expert into the specialty: “I chose to become a cardiologist out of pure interest and fascination with the cardiovascular physiology,” recalled Lawal. “I decided to specialize in cardiology when I was a third-year medical student.”

Today the physician helps Borderland medical students as Assistant

“The ability to cure various heart diseases and make my patients’ lives better (is most rewarding),” said Lawal.

“There is nothing more gratifying than putting a smile on my patients’ faces.”

Professor of Medicine at the Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center and the Paul L. Foster School of Medicine and as Clinical www.thecitymagazineelp.com

55

D r . L o o k m a n L awa l

56

February, 2019

www.thecitymagazineelp.com

February, 2019

Some patients Dr. Lawal treats have what is called Bradycardia, a condition characterized by a slow or irregular heart rhythm. Those who have the abnormality will experience dizziness, fatigue, shortness of breath or fainting spells because their heart is unable to pump enough oxygen-rich blood through the body during normal activity or exercise.

Pacemakers are the most common way to treat Bradycardia. The tiny mechanisms help restore the heart’s normal rhythm and relieve symptoms by sending electrical impulses to the heart to increase the heart rate. Traditionally, pacemakers are implanted in the upper chest below the collar bone and connected to the heart with wires called leads.

Now, patients have another option thanks to new technology. The Medtronic MicraÂŽ www.thecitymagazineelp.com

57

February, 2019 Transcatheter Pacing System (TPS) is touted as the world’s smallest, minimally invasive cardiac pacemaker. Positioned via a catheter and attached to the heart with small tines, the vitamin-sized device does not require surgical incisions or leads. Weighing no more than a penny, it ensures the heart keeps pace by delivering a steady stream of electrical impulses through a tiny electrode point.

Dr. Lawal brought the procedure to the Southwest about one year ago and is currently the only Micra-implanting physician in the El Paso/Las Cruces region. The technology was approved by the Food and Drug Administration in 2016.

The technology is just one of the innovations Dr. Lawal utilizes. He says technology has changed how he helps and treats patients today and is excited about what technology could mean for the future.

“Various heart conditions that used to require open heart surgery can now be treated with minimally invasive procedures,” says Lawal.

“The potential is inexhaustible.”

The heart expert is quick to point out there is still much work to be done in the industry and there are still many challenges, explaining: “We still do not have a cure for some heart rhythm disorders such as atrial fibrillation, which affects millions of Americans and is a common cause of stroke,” said Dr. Lawal.

And the fight is far from over in the battle against heart conditions like heart disease.

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, heart disease is the leading cause of death for both men and women.

About 630,000 Americans die from heart disease each year—that’s one in every four deaths. Dr. Lawal says awareness and information can make a difference.

“Although there have been several advances in treating various heart conditions, emphasis should be on prevention through continuous public education,” said Dr. Lawal.

58

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February, 2019

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Signs you may be Ready for Engagement February, 2019

| By: JANNET BUSTILLOS |

F LOVE

inding a suitable life partner can be quite the challenge.

The path to “the one” is littered with pitfalls, and sadly, not

everyone makes it. If you are lucky enough to get into a healthy

relationship, the idea of marriage will naturally be on your mind.

However gitty the idea may make you feel, it’s important to proceed

with caution. Afterall, the consequences of a souring relationship

are all the more serious if you’re legally bound to each other. So, before buying that ring, take some time to see if you and your significant other meet the prerequisites–and be honest!

It takes two whole people to make a solid relationship. Having your own identity and support system outside of your relationship is paramount.

Independence means you two are with each other because you want to be, not because you need to be. Don’t be tricked into thinking marriage will fill some void in your life—it really doesn’t work like that.

You love and respect them for who they are, good and bad qualities alike.

Getting engaged doesn’t instantly change your partner into a dream-like human, many of those character flaws are likely to persist. Consider that what annoys you about your partner now will really grate on you once married. Be realistic about who you’re willing to live with.

You enjoy being with them. As cliche as this may seem, being able to spend quality time with your partner is crucial and often goes overlooked, obscured by the happy-ending stories we tell ourselves. Getting engaged isn’t just saying “Yes!”—but it means that you truly enjoy each other’s company. You must like your partner as much as you love them.

You are truly ready for monogamy. Being in a committed relationship means you must be willing to give up your player tendencies. If the idea of only being with one person for the rest of your life makes you feel secure and confident in your relationship, then getting engaged is a comfortable next step for you.

You are willing to be a team player. Ideally, both sides should be comfortable making compromises. It’s not a competition, it’s about using the “we” statements and serving someone beside yourself. If both of you are willing to meet in the middle, can communicate, and there’s a profound mutual respect, then ring shopping is definitely in order.

You can be yourself. Before getting engaged, you need to have a relationship where there are no off-limit topics. No one likes to feel judged.

Being able to express yourself with no judgment from your partner is a good indication that there is enough love and respect to maintain a strong marriage in the future.

You share similar values. Different worldviews and moral codes routinely bring down marriages—family, finances, sex, you name it. Before getting engaged, you have to be on the same page to avoid such conflicts.

www.thecitymagazineelp.com

61

Smile

February, 2019

A New Reason tO

| By: PILAR MUĂ‘OZ |

62

Rendering of the Medical Sciences Building II where the www.thecitymagazineelp.com dental school will be housed.

February, 2019

S

A New Reason to Smile

Dr. Richard C. Black - Photo by Tommie Morelos/TTUHSC El Paso mile wide, El Paso is getting its first

dental school. Texas Tech University

Health Services Center (TTUHSC) recently

unveiled its plan to help the city take its next step in becoming a complete health sciences hub with the addition of the dental school. The school, which is expected to enroll between 20 to 40 students a year, will open its doors in 2021.

Joining the ranks of the Paul L. Foster School of Medicine and the Gayle Greve Hunt School of Nursing, the Woody L. Hunt School of Dental Medicine will help make El Paso a demonstrable center for health sciences. It will offer state-of-theart facilities and a curriculum that promises to fully prepare graduates for their careers. The new dental school will be spearheaded by newly announced dean, Dr. Richard C. Black.

According to the American Dental Association, Dr. Black has “served as president of the El Paso Dental Society and Texas Dental Association.� His vast experience in the field of dentistry, and his longtime involvement with the border community, makes him a prime candidate to lead the new initiative.

www.thecitymagazineelp.com

63

A New Reason to Smile

February, 2019

As it stands, the closest dental

Although the school is projected to enroll

schools to El Paso are all the

up to 40 students a year, it is expected to

way in Phoenix and East Texas.

enroll about 25 for its inaugural year. One

The problem with the current

of the added benefits of opening a dental

structure,

the

school in the region is that it will invite more

president of the TTUHSC Dr.

applicants from the area. This means that

Richard Lange, is less than 3% of

students graduating from the new dental

students return to the borderland

school will be more likely to be familiar

to practice in West Texas upon

with the language, culture and people in the

graduation.

according

to

the

borderland. This intimate knowledge of the

ADA claims that only 1.25 percent

culture and diet could lead to better health

of graduates between 2007 and

results. They will understand contributing

2011— amounting to a total of 13

factors to oral health issues that may be

graduates—set up their practices

particular to the border region, improving

in El Paso from those east Texas

outcomes for the patients involved.

What’s

more,

schools. This has contributed to a significant shortage of practicing

This all bodes very well for a city that is

A dental school has been on the city’s to-

dentists in the area. So much so that the

slowly becoming more competitive with

do list for quite some time. Statistically,

U.S. Department of Health and Human

bigger metropolitan areas such as Dallas

the rate of dentists in El Paso per 100,000

Services has “classified El Paso County as a

and Houston. By continuing to improve the

residents is significantly lower than the

dental Health Professional Shortage Area.”

quality of education in our area, El Paso

national average—20 per 100,000 in El Paso,

By opening a dental school here in the

can attract more talent and, even more

versus 36 nationally. These low numbers

borderland, Texas Tech is looking to increase

importantly, retain savvy young locals. Apple

have contributed to poor dental health in the

those numbers and retain more graduates in

may soon come to regret putting that billion

region. Poor oral health doesn’t just mean

the area, which should lead to better overall

dollar campus in Austin.

halitosis, it can contribute to several other

health for the region.

health issues such as diabetes, endocarditis and cardio vascular disease.

64

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February, 2019

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o l l i Carr ER RY CRAV | By: HEN urtesy of: photos co ENT | ANAGEM M R IE L ATE

o ñ e A Chuqu h t p i u w e k Ma t s i t r A

l a n o t i t u a o n l C Inter

66

www.thecitymagazineelp.com

L

ife doesn’t really slow down for Joseph Carrillo. When I caught up with him

Thanksgiving weekend, the esteemed makeup artist had just returned from his second O Magazine ocean tour, a collaboration between the publication and Holland America Line that combines cruises with lifestyle and beauty courses. Any time he’s had back on land over the past year has been dedicated to the production of his own NYX Masterclass, a comprehensive —and free—YouTube series on everything makeup. And in February, he’ll be busy at New York’s fashion week, where he’s all booked up with Maybelline.

However, before working Elle photoshoots and brushing shoulders with Hollywood’s biggest stars, Joseph was just a boy living in the heart of Borderlandia. Born in El Paso, Joseph grew up on the eastside of town and graduated from J.M. Hanks High School. His interest in beauty started at a young age, when he remembers being captivated by his aunt’s beautiful long hair and the time consuming upkeep it required. Later, he discovered there was an even more interesting beautification process playing out under his roof: Mom’s makeup routine. He’d post up on the bed and watch her apply blush, lipstick and a flawless smokey-eye. This went on for years until his girlfriends started to doll themselves up too. Joseph, having already spent years practicing in his imagination, finally got the chance to work on real skin.

Needless to say, his friends looked far more sophisticated than your average glitter-caked tweens.

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67

Jason Vourazeris, M.D.

Where are they now?

February, 2019

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

Joseph

turned

professional

before long, landing jobs at Sephora while still just in high school. As time went on, he continued to rise through the ranks

of

the

region’s

beauty

scene, moving on to a boutique salon and booking jobs for clients around Texas and northern Mexico.

In 2010, Joseph decided to take a risk, trading in the certainty of a stable career in El Paso for a shot at international acclaim in one of the world’s fashion capitals, New York City.

There were growing pains at first. Joseph, afterall, had learned makeup on the border where vibrant colors and defined

eyebrows rule, a stark contrast to the understated look popular in New York. A quick learner, however, he eventually caught on and soon had a healthy flow of work.

As is often the case in success stories, one gig changed everything for Joseph. Not long into his Big Apple tenure, a friend called him about a potential job. Nothing out of the ordinary, just a woman who needed her makeup done for an event. Joseph accepted and made his way to the appointment like he would for any other. Upon arriving, however, he immediately realized this wasn’t just another makeup session.

12770 Edgemere Blvd Bldg F El Paso, TX 79938 (915) 249-4000 | orthoep.com 68

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February, 2019 The client was none other than famed Venezuelan-American designer Carolina Herrera.

The two hit it off and, more importantly, Herrera was thrilled with the results. From there, it was off to the races for Joseph. The work came flooding in and he was soon taken under the wing of English makeup artist Pat McGrath, widely considered the field’s most important figure. The native El Pasoan quickly solidified himself as one of makeup’s top talents, working for a litany of top magazines, designers and stars. Although he’s more than capable with all things makeup—and even works on hair—Joseph became perhaps best known for his mastery of skin. He’s able to make his subjects’ complexions look flawless, without it even being apparent that they’re in heavy makeup.

In recent years, Joseph has had to adapt to keep pace with a rapidly changing fashion industry. Traditional editorial work has lost ground to social media campaigns, which are both cheaper and further reaching.

Consequently, Joseph too has turned his attention to newer forms of communication.

In addition to his NYX masterclass, he keeps an up to date instagram page—@ josephcarillo—flush with his latest work and

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video tutorials.

Asked how he feels about the latest phase of his career, Joseph explained that it was a mixed bag, saying: “It takes away from artistry…but I do [enjoy it] because I get to meet a lot of other people and I get to travel.

I go to LA once a month or once every other month to film videos for NYX.” Given how well he’s performed in various professional settings—from Chuco Town malls to becoming a prominent influencer—it seems safe to assume that Joseph Carrillo will flourish for years to come. No matter where his career takes him, however, one thing is certain: He will always remember his home, El Paso. In particular, he misses the food and dry summer heat.

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Call today for coverage you can tailor to your needs.

G.A. Delgado | 915-303-7122 | 4901 N MESA ST STE 3A6979912

What Does the El Paso County

Historical Society

February, 2019

Do Anyway?

I

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

However, like I mentioned before, the governing board of the El Paso County Historical Society has not always agreed on a core goal. Our bylaws state that the Society exists for the purpose of preserving

have written five articles about El Paso’s history for this

and sharing history, but that is a broad mandate. Balancing the

magazine, but it wasn’t until I was brainstorming a topic for

protection and accessibility of the physical archive, public use of the

the current issue that I realized I had never explained what the

Burges House, the substance and extent of our commentary in the

El Paso County Historical Society actually does. Like many of the

community, and types of programming offered, are questions we have

people who visit our headquarters, you might be wondering “Aren’t

grappled with for decades. This is part of working with a large group

those the people protesting the Downtown arena?” Or “Aren’t they

of dedicated individuals from varied backgrounds. We have agreed to

those bureaucrats who prevent me from making modifications to my

protect our physical collections by keeping them in climate controlled

120 year old home?” The answer to both of those questions is a

and fire-proof conditions, but make many of our materials available

resounding “No.” The El Paso County Historical Society (EPCHS),

on our website and through social media. We also seek to educate

however, does not lend itself to easy definition. Even the all-volunteer

through lectures, walking tours, working one-on-one with individuals,

staff at EPCHS has not always agreed on our mission. Nevertheless,

and events like “The History of Beer” night we had several years ago.

the following article should clear a few things up for you.

We are an education center that is open to anyone who wants to know more about the Borderland. We are part house-museum, part archive

The El Paso County Historical Society is a 501 (c)(3) nonprofit

and part library. But ultimately, we celebrate El Paso’s history.

organization, which means we do not receive money from any governmental entity, unless we apply for grants. We receive funding

Public confusion about our mission may stem from several sources.

from generous members of the community who want to preserve

First, names like “El Paso County Historical Society,” “El Paso

El Paso’s history. They either make donations or purchase yearly

County Historical Commission” (an advisory board that reports to the

memberships. Per the I.R.S., we also cannot spend a significant

Commissioner’s Court), “Historic Preservation Office” (the City office

portion of our time as a nonprofit advocating for or against

that approves or denies construction on historic properties), and “El

governmental policy. This all means that we cannot authorize or deny

Paso Preservation Alliance” (an online group), all sound the same.

any work on your historic property, nor are we filing lawsuits in court

Second, many of these groups share participants. Lastly, each group

to preserve the now infamous Durangito neighborhood.

strives to preserve El Paso’s history. The confusion is thus warranted.

Consequently, we receive calls from people seeking permission to

EPCHS was founded in 1954 by a group of concerned El Pasoans

make modifications to their homes and have been both praised and

who thought the region was losing its history. Over the years, the

chastised for the protests and lawsuits surrounding the destruction

Society has been headquartered in a drawer at the El Paso Public

of Durangito. Though the El Paso County Historical Society is no

Library, attached to Radford School, shared a space with the City of

doubt part of the region’s historic community, we are not engaged

El Paso’s Calvary Museum, and called the Burges House at 603 W.

in these pursuits.

Yandell home (where we have been for the last 33 years). Initially, the Society’s governing board collected some archival documents

It is a joy to work with a group of volunteers who dedicate time and effort

and objects, but they largely promoted El Paso’s history by erecting

to EPCHS, not for vanity or financial compensation, but because they

historical markers around town. Over time, however, EPCHS has

love El Paso. Please know that you are always welcome to volunteer

amassed a collection of archival materials that now consists of over

at and visit the El Paso County Historical Society. This is an incredible

25,000 photos, documents, maps, books, and objects pertaining to

resource in El Paso, and we are here to serve you.

the area’s history. Researchers from all over the globe visit us each year, and our audience includes professional historians and laypeople

For more information you

alike. We pride ourselves on being open to anyone who wants to

can contact the El Paso

know more about this region.

County Historical Society at (915) 533-3603.

February, 2019

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February, 2019

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Artist Spotlight

February, 2019

El Transplant Paso Is Just Getting | By: HENRY CRAVER |

Started 74

www.thecitymagazineelp.com

February, 2019

t initially seemed odd to me that a musician from Staten Island would decide to settle down in El Paso. Don’t get me wrong, El Chuco is great, but you still don’t hear of many New York artists leaving behind the media capital of the world to come live here.

Yet that’s just what Matt U Johnson did, and after getting the chance to talk to him for a while, it all made perfect sense.

Much like our community, Matt U—which comes from the Jamaican pronunciation of his given name, Matthew— is largely defined by his binational background. He was born on Staten Island, New York in 1990 to

a Jamaican mother and American father. The two sides of Matt U’s family played equally important roles in his formation, especially when it came to music. He still remembers dancing and singing at family get togethers as a young child. His Jamaican relatives put on dancehall and reggae while the paternal clan played RnB. Although he’d go on to develop a unique sound, the influence of those three genres have always marked his music.

Matt U was just 13 when he decided to pursue music professionally. By that point, he’d already begun listening to Pop and was intent on putting together a band that reflected his diverse musical tastes. His idea came to fruition when he was 15 with the creation of “Mixed.” As the name suggests, the group was both musically and ethnically diverse, featuring New York kids of various backgrounds. The fledgling musicians had a moderately successful run, booking shows around the city and gaining professional representation. However, Matt U would eventually leave the group because he felt the other members lacked ambition. That same www.thecitymagazineelp.com

75

M at t U J o h n s o n I s J u s t G e t t i n g S ta r t e d

frustration would later force him to leave more acts, before ultimately deciding to go solo.

After high school, Matt U attended Long Island University where he continued to pursue music alongside his studies. College proved instrumental to his growth as a singer. He heard new sounds thanks to the international student body and studied abroad for a year in London. The English capital, home to a huge caribbean community and vibrant music scene, pushed the young artist to go all in on a career in showbiz.

Matt U enrolled in music school after college, hoping it would give him the necessary edge to succeed. Upon graduating, feeling confident but restless, he decided that a change of scenery was in order before starting a new chapter of his career. Matt’s father, and manager at the time, had done his medical residency in the El Paso area and still had fond memories of the region. The elder Johnson talked about the city’s eternal 76

February, 2019 sunshine, friendly residents, healthy real estate market and rich bi-national culture.

Matt U was sold and in 2011 the whole family headed south west, saying goodbye to the island they had long called home.

He admits there were growing pains, explaining: “I love El Paso now but it was hard at first. I’m From New York and the borderland is something completely different.” Yet, despite an initial culture shock, the new town was an immediate boon to his career. Shortly after arriving, the transplant hooked up with local industry bigwigs and started booking shows. By 2014, his concerts and newly released single, “My Life,” had started to attract significant media attention. In addition to getting articles in prominent local newspapers, the burgeoning musician made appearances on TV shows like Buenos Dias Juarez and CBS4 At Noon.

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As is often the case in entertainment, the small successes started to snowball and pretty soon Matt U found himself performing at big time venues. He played Fiesta De Las Flores, Minerpalooza, and went off on Neon Desert 2018’s afternoon stage.

All the buzz recently led to a contract with Canadian manager Phil Carruthers.

Consequently, the dancehall standout has been spending a good deal of time in London, Ontario. He assured me, however, that El Paso was still home, saying: “This place just has such a unique vibe that you can’t get

A true dining experience

anywhere else. I love the Sun City.”

Matt U is poised to make 2019 a big year. His upcoming album, “Resurrection,” apparently features a completely restructured sound that he hopes will allow him to reach a wider audience.

When asked if he had any last words, the gifted performer couldn’t help but express his gratitude: “I just want everybody in El Paso to know I appreciate them and I wanna tell all the city’s artists to keep working hard to make it.” www.thecitymagazineelp.com

77

8690 Edge of Texas St. El Paso, TX 79934 | 915.822.3343

February, 2019

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February, 2019

annabidiol (CBD) use is ubiquitous.

doesn’t seem to be any research that shows

only trace amounts of THC in the Texas legal

There is a flurry of posts on Facebook and

it to have adverse health effects. Yet there

CBD oil, you can rest assured that you won’t

magnetic decals on vehicles that can testify

is growing concern that some vendors might

be failing any drug tests or coming down

to the recent proliferation of this medical

be deceiving customers, passing off other

with a chronic case of the munchies.

phenomenon. As with any new product that

potentially harmful substances as CBD.

has just hit the market, it is important to scrutinize its use and efficacy to determine if it’s right for you.

CBD is one of the two major active chemicals in marijuana, the other being the infamous tetrahydrocannabinol (THC). While the latter is the federally banned psychoactive chemical that makes you feel groovy, the former is perfectly legal and is increasingly sold at farmer markets and yuppified beauty boutiques.

While there’s a growing medical consensus regarding the medicinal power of THC, CBD remains a relative unknown. Some preliminary research hints that it may have potential to

CBD &ME A Quick Guide

to CBD Oil | By: PILAR MUÑOZ |

While the predominant method of consumption for CBD oil in Texas is topical, there are other forms of consuming it. For the quickest effects, experts recommend inhaling or taking it sublingually. By placing the oil droplets under your tongue or smoking it, the chemical enters your bloodstream quicker, giving you fast relief.

If you take the CBD oil with food—such as honey or candy—you can prolong its effects, giving you longer lasting relief. Topical usage, however, is ideal for targeted pain relief.

Be sure to read the labels. You will want to invest in CBD products whose labels clearly show their CBD and THC levels and if they have been tested in labs. Your health is important and you want to invest in products

treat a diverse range of symptoms, but the

that have proven to be effective in lab settings.

results have been far from conclusive. Included

Luckily, however, in Texas the industry is

on that list of ailments are things like seizures,

more regulated than in other states. Our CBD

inflammation, pain, nausea and migraines.

products must be derived from industrial

Finally, shop around. The beautiful thing about

hemp and contain less than 0.3% THC and

its popularity is that there will be a wide variety

The cloud of doubt hanging over CBC’s

more than 10% CBD. While many amateur

of vendors. Find one who is straightforward

reputation as a healer hasn’t stopped some

purists argue that this form of CBD has the

about their product, knowledgeable and has

sales people from hailing it as a heal-all miracle

highest potential for contamination, industry

good reviews. Most importantly, if a product

drug. Consequently, hoards of eager buyers

experts beg to differ. This method restricts

is not working for you, try another. As the

have lined up around the country, envisioning

the effects of the psychoactive chemical,

market matures, the products will get better.

a quick fix for their health problems. Even if

while heightening the effect of the non-

Until then, we need to scrutinize the options

the oil isn’t as good as many think it is, there

psychoactive CBD. In fact, because there are

and consume carefully.

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February, 2019

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February, 2019

The Science of Kissing | By: ERIN COULEHAN |

80

www.thecitymagazineelp.com

February, 2019

S

even years ago I sat down with editor-

In terms of sexual selection, biologists

Today, the process by which journeys end and

in-chief-extraordinaire, Shelley Mozelle,

suggest that our senses help us to quickly vet

lovers meet has transcended to the digital

to talk about kissing. What makes a

a potential mate through our senses of smell

sphere, complicating the act of courtship

good kiss? Is it the person? The atmosphere?

and taste. Humans respond to olfactory cues

and sexual selection. The rise of hook-up

Fate? While all of these factors contribute

that help assess the reproductive potential of

culture through apps like Tinder, Bumble,

to a kiss that makes you weak in the knees

a mate. This is the reason women are drawn

and others connects people through their

and your friends utterly delighted by your

to the scent produced by a sweaty man.

devices, and often produces a long-ish cycle

happiness, it turns out science is the greatest

Biological cues operate below the threshold

of correspondence before meeting the person

determinant of whether a prospective couple

of our consciousness that inform us whether

face-to-face, which are basically detours and

has the biological chops to survive the

the person has a high level of hormones like

speed bumps to making out. This delays

process of evolution.

testosterone, which is sexually desirable and

the moment a person will be able to receive

suggests future reproductive success. Similarly,

olfactory or other sensory cues to suggest

Have you ever had a crush on someone

evidence has suggested that properties in our

histocompatibility. Technological advances and

and once you kiss it just feels ... wrong?

saliva help us to determine compatibility.

hook-up culture have affected the trajectory that leads to those foot-popping kisses many

Like you’re kissing a family member?

Scientists believe this occurs because of

When two people with sufficiently dissimilar

hold as a high standard of romance, or the

the presence of the major histocompatibility

histocompatibility kiss it creates a chemical

unfortunate cringe-de-la-cringe confirmation

complex (MHC), a collection of proteins

reaction that quite literally causes a spark,

that kissing a certain person feels like kissing

that are essential for the immune system to

then kickstarts the pleasure and reward

your cousin. Imagine spending days or weeks

recognize foreign properties that contribute

seeking systems in our brains to pursue. The

exchanging flirty messages with someone

to histocompatibility, or the compatibility of

first time I kissed my boyfriend of two and

only to discover you have no attraction to

the two partners’ tissues. If a couple’s genes

a half years, I felt a spark that sent tingles

them in person, or are in fact repulsed.

are too similar, then their potential offspring

down my spine, through my toes, and made

are at a biological disadvantage because the

its way back to my brain. It was a kiss that

So how are modern lovers supposed to find

parents’ immune systems do not allow for the

shocked me on many levels; most significant

their true loves amidst the smorgasbord

offspring to have a robust immune system that

was the realization that I had never been

of options and technological channels of

can defend against a multitude of ailments. If

kissed like that before. I wouldn’t be dumb

communication? In person interaction—

you’re going to war, you want to rally allies

enough to screw whatever we had up

obviously—and

who have different resources than you do

because in my marrow I felt that I couldn’t

in consensual intimacy to find that life-

in order to optimize chances of survival. Our

not be kissed like that every day for the rest

altering, heart-swelling spark that leaves

biology drives us to seek partners who will

of my life. Shakespeare writes that “journeys

you speechless at first, and then eager to

help ensure our bloodline continues.

end in lovers meeting,” and I’d like to add

share your good fortune with anyone willing

that a very significant landmark of these

to listen. You know we love a good game of

journeys requires an open-mouthed lip lock.

kiss and tell.

www.thecitymagazineelp.com

willingness

to

engage

81

Del’s Books

Hidden

G

February, 2019

ms

e r o M and

| By: HENRY CRAVER photography by: KELIA HERNANDEZ |

82

www.thecitymagazineelp.com

T

D e l’ s B o o k s a n d M o r e

his past summer, for the first time in

Enter Del’s Books and More, the answer to

my adult life, I found myself without

my frustrations. Although principly branded

a job. I was thrilled, not feeling a

as a used book vendor, this new downtown

miota of that oft-reported unemployment

shop wears many hats, hence the “More”.

anxiety. Sure I’d have to spend a few hours

There are books of all genres, plenty of tables

a day sending out resumes and networking,

surrounded by comfy seats, coffee, tea and a

but that still left plenty of time for what I

basement that’s used for art and music shows.

like best in life: reading books, browsing reddit and drinking black coffee till my hands

Owner Rico De Leon and his wife Italy told

tremble. All I’d have to do was buy a bunch

me that their desire to open a third space–

of used books and find a nice cafe to hole up

somewhere people hangout between work

in. Much to my chagrin, however, a Google

and home– actually superseded the idea of

maps search revealed that the city’s only

a bookstore. For that reason, they’ve worked

second-hand book store was way over on the

hard to ensure Del’s has a welcoming

Westside, too far during such a sluggish life

environment. Rico explained the concept,

epoch. In the end, I surrendered to paying full

saying: “What I wanted to open up a while

price for e-books through amazon–obviously

back was a spot to just go to that’s not like

not nearly as fun. How the heck did El Paso

a bar or like the park. That’s why we offer

not have a cool indie bookshop downtown?

a space to hangout with with wi-fi, drinks... so people can just be comfortable and spend time here.”

Whatever Your Occasion

Plan it With Us! Gatherings That Inspire Unforgettable Social Events Call 915.342.1407 BIANCA.ARREOLA@HILTON.COM

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83

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The idea to create that special ambience

Uncle Del’s library safely procured, the young

within a bookstore came to Rico in the

couple just had to find a home for their

middle of his sister’s wedding last year. His

new project. Ricco told me there were was

uncle, who adopted the nickname Del while

never any question about the neighborhood,

in the Army, mentioned that he was looking

explaining: “We knew we wanted to come

to get rid of the healthy book collection he’d

downtown, that was always our goal. This

accrued over the years. Rico and Italy, avid

is the best part of the city, it’s the mecca.”

readers themselves, were more than happy

They stumbled upon an interesting spot on

to take them off his hands. Then it hit,

Overland Avenue not long into their search.

instead of opening just another Café, why

Long vacant, the rooms were dominated by

not a bookstore? Afterall, the local Barnes

storage boxes that reached the ceilings, and

and Noble branch would soon be closing and

the basement wasn’t even accessible. They

there were few independant locations in the

found it all very charming and decided to pull

area. Shortly after the wedding, Rico and Italy

the trigger before the tour was over.

made the trip to San Antonio to pick up the 3,000 or so books.

www.thecitymagazineelp.com

February, 2019

D e l’ s B o o k s a n d M o r e

Now came the hard part: turning the semi-decrepit location into a hospitable chillout zone. Despite very little renovation experience, they were set on completing the work themselves. And complete it they did, thanks all to their own perseverance and hundreds of hours of YouTube tutorial videos. They officially opened on November 11, just three months after starting the remodeling.

The new business has quickly established itself as a popular haunt for El Paso’s creative types. Rico, a sculpture and photographer himself, assured me that was always part of the plan. All local artists are welcome to display their work on the walls and enter their frequent expositions. In addition to displaying fine art, Del’s hosts gigs in the basement and even plans on doing paint and sip nights in the future.

Photographer Patrick Craig (p_craig on instagram), whose documentary style photos hang high on the walls, spoke to me about Del’s importance to the local artist community, saying: “They’re great supporters of the grassroots art scene in El Paso, giving emerging artists a venue to display and sell work for modest commision...This is really a dream come true for us.”

Whether you’re in the market for some reading material, want to see local art, or feel like mellowing out with a cup of tea, Del’s is definitely worth a trip. Oh, and rumor has it they’ll be getting a liquor license soon!

www.thecitymagazineelp.com

85

February, 2019

S Local Support for a Global Epidemic | By: PILAR MUÑOZ |

tarted in 1994 as a joint effort

their very first AIDS walk. Numerous

between the El Paso Community

prominent

figures

and

community

Foundation and the US/Mexico

supporters participated in the walk to

Border Health Association, the Border

raise funds for local organizations and

AIDS Partnership is a local organization

to remember people lost to the AIDS

dedicated to improving communication

epidemic. Floyd Johnson says that the

and supporting advocacy efforts in regard

partnership is hoping to turn the AIDS

to HIV/AIDS. The binational nonprofit has

Walk into an annual event, envisioning it

provided funding for HIV/AIDS education

as one of the partnership’s three major

and prevention activities on both sides

events. Another event he is looking

of the border in hopes of “diminishing

to introduce as a yearly fixture is the

the stigma attached to HIV/AIDS,” says

popular “Dining Out for Life” dinner,

Floyd Johnson, president of the board

which is often held in other cities as a

for the Border AIDS Partnership.

fundraiser for AIDS service organizations.

Floyd plans on giving the event a local

The tri-state partnership—encompassing

spin by calling it “Dining for Vida.” The

Texas, New Mexico and Chihuahua—

partnership also hosts the Dia de los

provides grants to organizations with

Muertos Spotlight every year, a popular

the aim of increasing collaboration

silent auction fundraiser. Look out for all

and support between the community

three in 2019.

and other organizations. As a large diverse

Under the sound direction of its board

population, El Paso benefits greatly

of directors, which is composed entirely

from

the

of local leaders, the Border AIDS

Border AIDS Partnership. They keep

Partnership is deeply entrenched in the

the

their

very community it serves. Floyd stresses

education campaigns, and their efforts

that the existence and sustainability of

to connect different types of agencies

such outreach programs relies almost

and organizations help ensure that the

entirely on grassroots support. “We

problem is addressed from all angles.

really do need as much public support

Since 1996, in conjunction with AIDS

as we can get,” says Floyd. Moving

United, the partnership has “distributed

forward, the partnership plan will work

more

to further harness local support in hopes

border

community advocacy

public

than

with

programs

informed

$2

a

like

through

million

to

support

innovative HIV prevention and education

of eradicating HIV in the borderland.

programs,” says Floyd. One of the programs that the partnership helped

You can support the partnership by

in 2018 was Programa Compañeros.

attending one of their events. For more

The Border AIDS Partnership assisted

information, call (915)-533-4020 or visit

in funding projects such as “Women

www.borderaidsep.org. For more information

in Action for Prevention,” “Gay Youth

on treatment and prevention call the PrEP

Without Border for Prevention,” and

Clinic in El Paso at (915) 773-0601.

“Health Navigators to Access Primary Care for People Living with HIV/AIDS.” The partnership has been especially active recently, introducing new events and planning others for the near future.

On December 1, World AIDS Day, the Border AIDS Partnership hosted 86

www.thecitymagazineelp.com

February, 2019

Dr. Dean E. Smith, MD

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(915) 857-6699 | elpasospinecenter.com | 10400 Vista Del Sol Drive Suite 204

87

What type

T

cardio of

should you d

88

he type of cardio you do should be

chosen according to your goals and abilities. There are many different

forms of cardio. A lot of people simply think

?

| By: LIZZIE MARTINEZ |

February, 2019

cardio is running, but there is so much more to cardio. Cardio can be LISS (low intensity steady state), HIIT (high intensity interval training), long distance

running, stairmaster, elliptical, biking, or a fitness class, but which one is right for you?

If you suffer from previous injuries, joint problems, or obesity, you should always stick to a low intensity, or LISS. Examples

of low intensity cardio are walking, light jogging, and using an elliptical or seated bike. LISS is also great for people who are just starting their weight-loss or fitness journey. The only problem with LISS is that it inhibits lean muscle growth

www.thecitymagazineelp.com

February, 2019

fitness

because you need to do longer sessions to

for anywhere from 30 seconds to about a

There are a lot of pros and cons to long

shed fat and it ends up burning a great deal

minute, followed by a less intense recovery

distance running. The pros are that it has

of energy. In order to restore this lost energy,

period of about 40-50 percent of maximum

been shown to improve memory and learning

some energy-consuming pathways, such as

capacity for around a minute. Studies have

ability, reduce the risk of certain types of

muscle protein synthesis, are shut down,

found that people performing HIIT increased

cancer, better cholesterol levels and bone

ultimately diminishing lean muscle. Also, if

their cardiovascular capacity and burned

density, alleviate depression and anxiety,

the energy deficit of cardio is too much, the

considerably more body fat than those who

facilitate weight-loss and even increase sex

body will start to oxidize muscle protein for

did LISS. Scientists have also found that

drive. The cons to long distance running

energy, ending in more muscle loss.

HIIT training increases insulin signaling and

are joint injuries, a weakened immune

improves glucose influx into the muscle.

system, hormonal imbalances–such as lower

Because of the shortcomings of LISS cardio,

Basically, this provides greater energy to the

testosterone and estrogen levels–and even

a different form of cardio, known as HIIT, has

muscle for better performance while also

damage to the heart.

come to be known as the most efficient type

enhancing greater lean muscle growth. The

of cardio. HIIT has the ability to reduce body

only problem with HIIT training is that you

Of course you should always ask your doctor

fat more potently than LISS without wreaking

need athletic ability to perform it and you do

before starting any type of fitness program,

havoc on energy levels, thus enabling optimal

put yourself somewhat at risk of injury.

but in the end the best cardio for you is that which suits your body and makes you happy.

lean muscle growth. HIIT entails working at 80-90 percent of your maximum capacity such

There is also long distance running, which

Listen to your body and never push yourself

as a sprint or an intense exercise like burpees

is what half and full marathon runners do.

to the point of injuries.

www.thecitymagazineelp.com

89

Only one heart.

Only one you.

February, 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 90

(844) 367-5654 ElPasoHearts.com/oneheart www.thecitymagazineelp.com

2019 February, 2019

| By: ROBBIE AARON |

E L PASO

s e h s i W r o f k l a W Everyone has their own heroes. They are admired for different reasons and come in all shapes, sizes, genders and ages. Some of them wear capes, while others make clutch plays.

www.thecitymagazineelp.com

91

M a k e - A - W i s h E l PA S O

O

February, 2019

n Saturday, March 30, the

to partner with Make-A-Wish. Through its

El Paso community will, again,

premier events like the Walk For Wishes, we

have the unique opportunity to honor

align our brands to push a common mission—

and support local wish kids who are battling

help the children in our region that need it the

critical illness by participating in the signature

most,” states Rob J. Anderson, Administrator

walk of Make-A-Wish --the Fourth Annual

for the Providence Children’s Hospital.

®

Walk For Wishes® presented by Southwest

BROCK BENJAMIN BENJAMIN LAW FIRM Creativity for

University and The Hospitals of Providence.

Back by popular demand, Walk For Wishes

Wish kids, who can easily be spotted wearing

will feature a special section known as the

their blue Make-A-Wish capes, participate

“Wish Zone,” spotlighting kids who have

alongside family members, friends and

some of El Paso’s most unique wishes.

community supporters in this fun, one-mile

In addition to the central event, Walk For

walk around the beautiful Fountains of Farah.

Wishes will feature interactive booths, a man-

“Providence Children’s Hospital is proud

made “Wishing Tree”—where participants

your defense

(915) 412-5858 747 E. San Antonio Ste. 203 92 El Paso, Tx 79901

www.thecitymagazineelp.com

February, 2019

M a k e - A - W i s h E l PA S O

can write their individual wishes—and more!

confidence, sadness with joy, and anxiety

Be sure to enjoy a great family brunch at one

with hope. Families are unified and entire

of the fantastic local restaurants around the

communities are enriched—the positive

Fountains at Farah after the walk.

impact is boundless. Help us Add Magic to the Medicine by joining us at Walk For Wishes on

By participating in Walk For Wishes, you’ll be

March 30, 2019. Walk with wish families and

helping local El Paso children battling critical

local supporters, all while helping share the

illnesses receive the one true wish they need

power of a wish. Every eligible child needs a

when they need it most. We’re excited to

wish to count on!

recognize the top fundraising teams, schools, companies and individuals who participate in

What: Walk For Wishes® El Paso

Walk For Wishes!

presented by Southwest University & The Hospitals of Providence

Did you know medical research connects

When: Saturday, March 30, 2019 at 8 AM

wish experiences to better health outcomes?

Where: The Fountains at Farah

Wishes are catalysts for hope—profoundly effective in fueling a child’s drive to defy

Sign up today at WalkForWishesElPaso.org

the odds and push toward tomorrow. When

and tell your friends!

a wish is granted, a child replaces fear with

KEEP YOUR BODY

RUNNING. Sports medicine reconstruction & more

suncityorthoandhand.com

Call (915) 581-0712 www.thecitymagazineelp.com

East: 1400 GEORGE DIETER STE. 93 100 Central: 1810 Murchison Ste. 140

February, 2019

PET OF THE

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

MONTH Happine

ss

H ere Happens

Fall in

L

O

V

Dog: Aspen

Owner: Kristina Avila Aspen can be spotted by his captivating ear-to-ear smile, which is an accurate representation of how his life is going

(pretty dang good). He has a number friends, both two and four-legged, yet the one relationship he’s continuously working on is with fellow birds. Aspy enjoys to explore everywhere between the Rio Grande to the Franklin Mountains, playing soccer and relishing cool AC with a good bone to chew on!

This 9-month-old Australian Shepherd is just getting started with this fun thing called life.

E

You can follow all his adventures along on Instagram: @aussome.aspen

EW W IT H Y O U R N

Best Friend

HSELPASO.ORG

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.

@humanesocietyEP 94

www.thecitymagazineelp.com

February, 2019

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95

February, 2019

Planned Miranda Aguirre

| By: DAVE ACOSTA photos courtesy of: PLANNED PARENTHOOD OF GREATER TEXAS |

W

Returns to Fill g hen Planned Parenthood of Greater Texas opened the doors to

El Paso’s unique placement on the border and the city’s lack of

its new El Paso health center in October, the first two patients

convenient and affordable healthcare made opening a health center in

through the doors were a woman who received birth control and

the region a priority for Planned Parenthood.

a young man in need of testing for sexually transmitted infections.

“Politicians in the Texas Legislature have systematically dismantled

That, according to health center manager Miranda Aguirre, is a typical

women’s health programs within Medicaid and blocked Planned

example of the many different services Planned Parenthood provides

Parenthood from receiving grant funding for cervical cancer screenings,

the community. These healthcare services, she says, have been

birth control, and other healthcare services,” said Planned Parenthood of

lacking the border region since the last Planned Parenthood in El Paso

Greater Texas President and CEO Ken Lambrecht. “But we know that

closed its doors in 2009. Planned Parenthood is trusted for expert,

healthcare services are needed in Texas communities and the warm

non-judgmental healthcare which is why one in five women go to

welcome we have received from the El Paso community has proven to

Planned Parenthood at some point in their lives

us that it was important to bring Planned Parenthood back to the region.”

“El Paso has welcomed Planned Parenthood back into the

El Paso was one of the largest cities in the U.S. without a Planned

community with open arms,” says Miranda, a native El Pasoan who

Parenthood health center, according to Lambrecht. Planned

was previously the manager of a Planned Parenthood health center in

Parenthood of Greater Texas did not operate the previous Planned

Austin. “We offer a range of women’s and sexual healthcare services

Parenthood clinic in El Paso.

to anyone—insured or uninsured and regardless of income level or immigration status. Our staff specializes in serving teens and LGBTQ

Planned Parenthood is needed in El Paso and the rest of Texas,

patients, as well.”

says Aguirre, because Texas has the highest number of uninsured residents and repeat teen pregnancy rates in the country. Access to

Planned Parenthood of Greater Texas operates 22 health centers in

preventative cancer screenings and STI testing and treatment are also

Texas in Austin, Dallas, Denton, Fort Worth, Paris, Plano, Tyler, Waco,

lagging in Texas.

and surrounding communities.

96

www.thecitymagazineelp.com

February, 2019

Parenthood

ap in Healthcare El Paso County is one of the top ten counties in Texas for reported HIV

Planned Parenthood will also provide women with unintended

cases. The county also has a higher than average rate for unintended

pregnancies a safe resource for medical and surgical abortion services.

teen pregnancies and has seen a recent rise in STIs, such as gonorrhea

Only one other clinic provides these services in the El Paso area.

and chlamydia, according to information from the Texas Department of State Health Services.

“I can’t tell you how important it was for a lot of people to see Planned Parenthood come back and I’m really appreciative that the organization

El Paso’s State Sen. José Rodríguez believes strongly in Planned

has decided to open a new health center here,” José said.

Parenthood’s mission of providing affordable healthcare for the entire community.

Miranda said that Planned Parenthood of Greater Texas has provided healthcare and education services in Texas communities for more

“We’re a medically underserved area; we’re designated as such by

than 80 years. Through donor support, Planned Parenthood prioritized

the federal government,” José said at an event held in October to

opening the El Paso health center. “Everyone deserves affordable

announce Planned Parenthood’s return to El Paso. “We have a lot of

healthcare, no matter your gender, age, zip code, insurance or

low income people here who need access to the kinds of services

immigration status, or who you love,” said Miranda. “And when

Planned Parenthood provides.”

you’re talking about El Paso these are segments of the community that continue to be underserved. So, we hope Planned Parenthood

Such services include breast and cervical cancer screenings; birth

can continue to make a difference.”

control, including IUDs and implants; annual exams; HIV tests; preventive HIV medication (PrEP and PEP); testing and treatment for

The health center is located at 1511 E. Missouri Avenue near

sexually transmitted infections; treatment for urinary tract and vaginal

Downtown El Paso. For more information or to make same-day and

infections; midlife services including menopausal hormonal therapy

online appointments, visit ppgreatertx.org/elpasohealthcare or call

and gender affirming hormone therapy.

800-230-PLAN.

www.thecitymagazineelp.com

97

N

othing says “I love you” better than

the

gift

of

beauty

for

Valentine’s Day. Beyond the roses and nougat-filled chocolate, Valentine’s Day is about celebrating all your relationships— including the one you have with yourself.

Below are some of my favorite tried and true products to have you feeling special.

Pat McGrath Luxetrance Lipstick in Shade Major Red. “Lavishly laminate lips with sensuously saturated colour while providing rich hydrations and protection from free radicals. Each signature shade offers every complexion a personalized couture look. Hypnotize and exude luxury with lips transformed into objects of ravishing desire.” www.patmcgrath.com

Milk Makeup Lip + Cheek in Shade Swish.

“Two-in-one stick doubles as a sheer blush and hydrating lip tint. Color payoff builds as you swipe. Mango butter, peach nectar and avocado oil provide instant hydrating benefits and help color blend seamlessly into skin. Swipe onto lips, cheeks, or both and blend with fingertips for an instant flush.” www.milkmakeup.com

Zoya Nail Polish in Shade America.

Best Beauty Gifts for

a V | By: ELYSE SIMONS |

“Zoya is a 10 Free Formula: This means their nail polishes are formulated

without formaldehyde, formaldehyde resin, dibutyl phthalate, toluene,

camphor, TPHP, parabens, xylene, ethyl tosylamide or lead.” www.zoya.com

Ren Clean Skincare Rose O12 Moisture Defence Oil.

“This concentrated cocktail of 12 oils lock in moisture to plump

the skin, helps restore natural radiance, softness, and elasticity, and

protects against free radicals to combat visible signs of premature aging.

It’s enriched with an array of ingredients that work together to create skin that’s hydrated and smooth.” www.sephora.com

Kevyn Aucoin The Celestial Skin Liquid Lighting Highlighter in Shade Candelight.

D

“A lustrous gel-cream highlighter that illuminates for radiant, lit-from-within glow. This pigmented,

moisturizing emulsion adds radiance and a delicate highlight to the skin. Highlights are natural looking,

never harsh and boost the complexion with shaping light. The finish never looks shimmery, glittery, or greasy,

and the long wearing liquid illuminator formula works alone or mixed with your favorite foundation or moisturizer to create a customized, dewy glow.” www.kevynaucoinbeauty.com

www.thecitymagazineelp.com

Beaut y

s ’ e n i t n le

y a D www.thecitymagazineelp.com

Limelife by Alcone Winter Mint Collection.

“Invigorate your skin and your senses with our Winter Mint Collection. This minty-fresh collection includes one peppermint bath bomb to produce soft, glowing skin from head to toe and our peppermint vegan bar soap to leave your skin feeling clean and minty fresh.” www.limelifebyalcone.com

By Terry Baume de Rose Hand Cream.

“The iconic Baume de Rose is now interpreted in a hand care formula. Deeply nourishing, softening and comforting, this incredibly rich cream envelops your hands in a protective, non-oily powdery veil to repair, moisturize and leave the skin supple and beautiful.” www.byterry.com

Breakups to Makeup Perfect Makeup Clutch.

“This all-purpose clutch is for makeup lovers and fashionistas alike. Made of a durable canvas material, this bag can store anything from your favorite lipstick to your smart phone.” www. breakeupstomakeup.com

99

February, 2019

His Prerogative I

| By: ANDY MARTINEZ | t’s 2019 and many men have established grooming and skincare routines that work for them. Perhaps it’s time to be a little more adventurous and look beyond cleansers and moisturizers for

elements to add to your regimen. I’ve listed a few products that are worth a gander this year to elevate your look and help you explore the many possibilities that are available for those of us who aren’t intimidated by a little extra primping.

100

www.thecitymagazineelp.com

February, 2019

2

3

4

1 1 Le Labo | Face Bronzer $40 | lelabofragrances.com As a self-confessed SPF freak, I understand the plight of protecting your skin from harmful and aging UV rays while still wishing you had a hint of color on the face. To avoid looking like you’ve lived out of a bunker for the last decade, Le Labo has developed a daily facial bronzer to add that extra hint of the sun that your skin desperately wants. Easy to apply and even easier to wash off at night, this formula works best on the high points of the face: the cheekbones, across the nose and the top half of the forehead toward the hairline. It’s important to note that this is not a self-tanner and simply gives you a light boost of color.

2 Kiehl’s | Buttermask for Lips $26 | kiehls.com Lips lack sebaceous glands and are not porous, so any moisture that they require must come from an external source, hence the rampant popularity of lip balms. Everyone knows, however, that a tube of chap stick comes only second to sock in the dryer in its ability to get lost and never appear again. For those days when your lips are suffering, whether it be from the dry air of an airplane cabin or excessive lip licking, this coconut oil-infused, intensive overnight lip mask restores the supple texture of your lips and preps them to withstand the dry winter months.

3 Tom Ford | Brow Definer $47 | tomford.com We weren’t all born blessed with dense and heavy-looking brows, so in order to play catch up with our more fortunate brothers, Tom Ford has developed a tool to effortlessly give those brows the boost they deserve.

Ford, who proclaims that brows are one of the most important elements of facial architecture, brings us a not-so-obvious looking tinted gel to tame brows and give them a more defined and clean look.

4 Hanz De Fuko | Heavymade $23 | Hanzdefuko.com While messy and care-free hairstyles will always be in, there’s nothing more classic than a highly-polished and clean style. For an extreme hold with no maintenance after, this pomade delivers a long-lasting and glossy finish to keep you presentable through the daily grind while still managing keep the hair soft and flake free. The pomade also conditions the hair throughout use so you’ll never have unpleasant and dry hair after washing. www.thecitymagazineelp.com

101

Electrifying impulse fitness

February, 2019

An

New Way to Stay in Shape | By: PILAR MUÑOZ |

T

his age is one of ever increasing

Luisa

described

the

practical

benefits,

efficiency and instant gratification.

saying: “25 minutes what you would do in

Video Chat allows friends to speak face

a traditional gym setting in two hours.” Just

to face from across the world, and modern

imagine what you could do with all that extra

jets zip North Americans across the Atlantic

time!

in just six hours. However, there’s been one exception to this progress: fitness.

Impulse Body Fitness uses the same EMS

The general consensus is that there’s no

technology that professional athletes use. It’s

shortcut around exhausting, long workouts

all fitted into a portable Bluetooth equipped

and restrictive diets–until now. Impulse Body

suit, eliminating the need for pesky wires

Fitness, the self-proclaimed “first boutique

that could inhibit movement.

fitness studio” in El Paso, advertises an advanced

technology

that

significantly

expedites the whole process.

Whether you’re a novice or seasoned a seasoned gym rat, Impulse Body Fitness promises to meet your needs. They are able

Electrical Muscular Stimulation, EMS, entails

to adjust the intensity of the EMS depending

the use electrical impulses to contract

on the individual and their goals. “We cater to

specific muscles. Although used for decades

everyone’s needs, goals, and expectations.

by physical therapists and some elite athletic

Everyone is doing the same exercise, but

trainers, it has only recently caught on in

everyone is personalized,” says Luisa. They

more casual fitness circles. Impulse Fitness

even offer alternative movements for clients

was one of the earliest adopters in El Paso.

who may be injured or have medical issues.

Owners Martha Zaragoza and Luisa Zaragoza

They offer cardio, strength training, and

explained that they use EMS in conjunction

flexibility training—all using EMS technology.

with traditional exercises, allowing them to stimulate up to 80 percent of the client’s

Imagine … saving time and getting in shape!

muscles at one time. The more muscles

This new concept could seriously help some

you activate, the more efficient the workout.

of us reach our New Year’s resolution goals.

February, 2019

EL PASO RHINOS Upcoming Series:

February 8-10 | February 22-24 103 Friday and Saturday games at 7 pm | Sunday games at 4:30 pm For tickets and more information, visit elpasorhinos.com or call 915-479-PUCK (7825) www.thecitymagazineelp.com

o o

i d

d

u

O

u

e

t

G

r

February, 2019

HIT THE

TRAILS!

104

y: |B

C RY N HE

R VE A R

|

www.thecitymagazineelp.com

February, 2019

The Real Estate Market

is shifting in 2019 Do you know how this

T

is going to affect you?

his part of the world has long been

by renowned industry expert Greg Evans, this

synonymous with cowboys and, of

outfit offers customized day excursions by

course, no cowboy is complete without a

appointment, private lessons, and a number

good horse. The equine species’ presence

of youth camps throughout the year. The

in the region dates back hundreds of years

lessons, aimed at beginner and intermediate

to when early Spanish settlers first crossed

equestrian

their steeds through Paso Del Norte in the

grooming and saddling in addition to riding

1530s. Even today, the West long since tame,

essentials. The group also offers catered

visitors to El Paso are quick to notice many

meals to clients, a nice addition seeing as

locals still sport cowboy hats and that our

horseback riding can be quite taxing.

enthusiasts,

teach

students

downtown is flush with high-quality boot and belt stores. It’s only natural that tourists and

Advanced riders will feel right at home on

El Pasoans alike, intent on getting in touch

the Go West Stables property. This quarter

with this part of El Chuco’s history, decide to

horse farm and boarding facility, located in

saddle up themselves before exploring the

west El Paso along the New Mexico border,

landscape.

is home to some serious professionals. The ranch trains competitors in the American

Those seeking an enjoyable horseback riding

Quarter Horse Association All around Events,

experience have plenty of great choices.

the best of the best. However, despite their

The right riding company will depend on

reputation for elite riding, Go West Stables

what exactly you’re looking for, since each

also features more casual lessons and

business offers different trails and riding

packages for birthdays and other special

options.

events.

The Miller Horse Farm and Riding Academy

Once you’ve selected the appropriate riding

is a great choice for both beginner and

company, now it’s time to get ready. While

advanced riders. The full services boarding

riding horses can certainly be relaxing, it’s

facility, located in a scenic section of

important to always be well prepared. Be sure

Anthony, New Mexico, offers a diverse range

to wear long pants and close-toed shoes to

of activities for all skill levels. Thanks to its

protect your lower extremities from chaffing

location, customers can pick to ride through

and thorny bushes. Leave behind any clothes

the hilly desert terrain or wind into the

that could get tangled up in gear like loose

surrounding farmland. The ranch also offers

fitting sweaters, scarves, and tank top style

a “Horses 101” camp in the summer for

shirts. Reputable stables provide helmets,

3-18 year olds. In addition to participating in

so no need to worry about that. Since this is

a bunch of fun activities, campers leave with

sunny El Paso, remember to protect yourself

a solid foundation in horse riding and care.

from the powerful UV rays with sunglasses, sunscreen, and possibly some sort of hat.

El Paso Trail Rides, situated in the upper

Last but not least, hydrate yourself before

valley area of La Union, New Mexico, is a

arriving and bring along at least two gallons

stalwart in the region’s riding landscape. Run

for the ride. Now, giddy up and get out there!

www.thecitymagazineelp.com

C A L L m e t o d ay

t o f i n d o u t h o w.

luiscarlosperez.com 915.525.5161105

February, 2019

Hail Heraklion, Capital of Crete and Ancient Minoan Wonders | By: MARIE MOORE |

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February, 2019

t r av e l

W

hat really happened to the ancient Minoan

Civilization? Did the last of its kind perish

when Atlantis sank into the ocean? Or did

they simply vanish like the Pompeiians after

a horrendous volcanic eruption? No one has yet resolved this great mystery, but when you walk through the hallways or climb one of the stairwells that they built thousands of years ago, you just know the cause of their demise had to be something big.

Sailing on the Sea of Crete into the Old Port of Heraklion, the first thing you notice is the Koules Fortress. Built by the Republic of Venice in the 16th Century, it was originally called Castello a Mare. It remains intact and welcomes tourists today, housing an impressive exhibit that explains its construction and purpose, as well as displaying unusual marine and military gadgets. It is the ultimate tribute to the island’s former rulers.

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February, 2019

But even the story of Koules pales in comparison to the Palace of Minos at Knossos.

Here lies not just a few marble columns or a temple ruin, but a complex, multi-level settlement that incorporates water and sewage drains, waste pits, storage cellars, roadways, sidewalks, guest lodgings, a theatre, a marketplace, a treasury, a potter’s workshop, a shrine, a central court, homes and a royal residence.

In addition to all that, the remains of centuries old frescoes, bathrooms and toilet rooms, the collection of giant olive oil and water amphora, square pillar crypts and underground corridors were fascinating.

Accessibility to the site is noteworthy. Heraklion is very tourist friendly!

With the help of our concierge at the amazing Galaxy Hotel, I was able 108

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February, 2019

t r av e l

to purchase a ticket and locate the correct local bus to the palace for 1.20 euros.

Location is always key in a big city. I was also able to walk from the hotel, through the picturesque City Garden, to the Koules fortress AND to the Archaeological Museum of Heraklion, which houses much of the preserved Minoan Collection rescued by Arthur Evans during his excavation of the Palace of Minos at Knossos.

And I can’t forget how surprisingly affordable it was to dine like a Minoan queen. For example, the two foot long wooden rack of chicken and vegetables I shared at the NEON café, right across the street from the Galaxy, cost 10 euros. It was delicious.

Of course Crete has much more to offer, it is a very large island afterall. Bus tours, boat cruises, car and scooter rentals are easy to book. Consider the caves and beach at Matala, or Chania’s 16th century lighthouse and nautical museum. Ultimately, however, Heraklion is a true capital that should not be overlooked—steeped in history with all the modern amenities we tourists love to enjoy.

www.thecitymagazineelp.com

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February, 2019

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February, 2019

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5 Pack Becoming One Of

the

| By: ERICA SALAS-ZAVALA, Special Events Coordinator |

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e l pa s o zo o

55

years ago, in

Though there is not much information on

1964, Firestone sold tires for $9.25 each, the

Society memberships for 1964, with just

Sun Bowl Stadium was nearing completion,

over 90,000 households in El Paso, we can

and the El Paso Herald-Post ran a story about

be certain there was not an overwhelming

the “bewitching hairstyles” of little girls. That

number of members. Today, there are over

same year, the El Paso Zoological Society

4,000 families supporting the outstanding

(EPZS) opened its doors and sold its first

wildlife conservation work of the Zoo while

annual membership to the El Paso Zoo.

taking advantage of the many benefits that come with being an El Paso Zoo Member.

So, has anything changed since 1964?

Naturally, yes, but then again, no, not really.

A growing zoo means more benefits for

You can’t buy a tire for $9.25 and a Zoo

members. For starters, the price to bring in

Membership no longer costs $15. The El

the average El Paso family of to two adults

Paso Zoo, once located at Washington Park—

and two children can cost up to $42 for a

home to Mona the Elephant, a few kissing

one-day visit. However, for $53 more, two

llamas and some reptiles—now spreads over

adults and five children can visit the Zoo for

35 acres and houses more than 220 species.

an unlimited amount of times throughout the

Change is exciting, but one strong constant

year during Zoo hours. Your $95 membership

is the family-friendly atmosphere found at

pays itself off in just two visits!

the Zoo that makes it the number one visited city attraction. www.thecitymagazineelp.com

You may ask yourself, “Why would anyone 113

February, 2019 visit the El Paso Zoo more than once a year?”

Two words: events and additions! The El Paso Zoo hosts anywhere between four to five holiday themed events throughout the year.

From “Boo at the Zoo” to “Eggstravaganzoo,” members and their families can skip long lines and gain free entrance to these events.

Guests from toddlers to teens—and even some adults—cool off in the Hunt Family Desert Spring Splash Pad, monkey around at the Foster Treehouse Playground, view bird shows in the Wildlife Amphitheater, and ride the African Star train or Hunt Family Endangered Species Carousel. Coming soon in 2019, visitors will be able to experience life in the Chihuahuan Desert, complete with Mountain Lions, a flashflood simulation and a challenging ropes course.

Get Social With Us @tableoccasions

114

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February, 2019 El Paso Zoo member, Kerry Black Perrea wrote: “Having a membership saves us money and means we don’t have to consider cost when we decide to go. Sometimes we’re just there for an hour or two, but

Serving El Paso Authentic Italian Cuisine since 1948

each time we visit, we see or do something memorable.”

• Private Party Room

“I love that there are no lines to go in,

• Beer & Wine

especially when events are going on. Also, it allows us to have spending money for inside the Zoo instead of spending it all on entrance fees.” says member Griselda Garcia.

With a Zoo Membership, families can visit

• Outside Dining • Live Music Thur. to Sat. • We cater large or small events

over 120 zoos and aquariums across the US at reduced admission prices. It is also important to note that by purchasing a membership, you are making a difference in our community as well as globally. By buying an annual membership, the EPZS is able to fund various conservation programs like the “Lion Guardians” in Kenya, the “Asian

Italian.Kitchen. West www.theitaliankitchenelpaso.comm

Elephant Squad” in Sumatra, and some in our own backyard like the “Texas Parks & Wildlife” animal cameras that monitor wildlife at the Franklin Mountains State Park.

An El Paso Zoo Membership truly is the gift that keeps on giving.

The Zoo has been a favorite for all since 1964. With spring break around the corner, stop by the Zoo Society Office located at the front gate of the zoo entrance. Join our family by purchasing or renewing your annual Zoo Membership in advance and become part of the generations that have walked through the gates of the El Paso Zoo—past, present and future.

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IN

IN

&

OUT

February, 2019

| By: PABLO DELGADILLO |

Pin-up Pins are the perfect accessory to add a little personality to any outfit. There’s such a variety of pins nowadays that it’s possible to find a perfect match. Coming in a mix of materials–from enamel to plastic–and all sorts of motifs, we’re sure you can express yourself with the right pin!

DIY Don’t know how? There’s no excuse these days with Google and YouTube always in our pockets! If nothing catches your fancy, it may be time to take matters into your own hands. Not only can you create the products of your dreams, but you’ll sock away some serious savings too. Take a weekend to explore and discover what you can create with your own two hands and a little bit of imagination.

Movie deals If you love going to the movies but hate the price, be on the lookout for special promotions and coupons. A lot of theatres in town let you sign up for a free email newsletter that keeps you up to date on concession stand coupons!

There are also rewards programs through which you accumulate points to later exchange for discounts or movie tickets! Of course, you can always go on Tuesdays and save a couple of bucks on your ticket.

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www.thecitymagazineelp.com

February, 2019

OUT K-cups Sure, K-cups are a convenient way to brew a nice cup of coffee or tea, but they are also a big waste. Unless you have reusable K-cups, the regular ones are a one-time use only. What’s more, they aren’t recyclable, which means they add to that nasty trash surplus. Why not switch back to a French press, or even a normal coffee maker?

It’s cool to be green!

It Smells Nice Most of us have at least one device that makes our house smell nice. It’s usually either a wax melter, an oil diffuser or a spray. They sure smell good, but sometimes they are just too strong.

DENTISTRY FOR THE

ENTIRE FAMILY

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

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The ideal product is one that balances a room and doesn’t overwhelm anyone. Avoid the fragrances used in public restrooms (pine, ocean breeze) and seasonal odors—no one wants to be smelling pumpkin spice in the summer!

www.thecitymagazineelp.com

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

’

C o olk ’s

February, 2019

l

Writer's

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

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February, 2019

oven roasted C

carnitas

tacos Chef’s tip

| By: JESSE MAYNES |

arnitas are an El Paso staple. Almost every local family has its own recipe and accompanying tradition that’ve been passed down for generations. The simplicity and

value of carnitas make them a realistic addition to anyone’s culinary roster. The foundation of carnitas is a good pork butt, a hardy meat that should be nicely marbled with fat.

Don’t let the name fool you, this cut actually comes from the upper part of the pork shoulder. Cooking this cut of meat low and slow is the key to achieving that juicy, pulled pork effect. After, it should be finished off in a broiler to bring in those charred tips and crispy, fatty edges. Chow down on it alone or use this delicacy to bring loved ones together, it’s a really versatile meal. Make sure all the sides are bright and vibrant because, otherwise, the carnitas won’t look that appetizing. On the same note, don’t be scared to use your add-ons to make the serving pop.

Cooking meat in its own fat is called “confit,” which is the cooking method in this recipe.

3 1/2-4 pound pork butt 1/2 pound lard 1 white onion, quartered 4 cloves garlic, smashed 2 tablespoons oregano 2 tablespoons cumin 2 tablespoons black pepper

1.

Preheat oven to 325 degrees.

2.

Cut pork butt into 2’’ pieces and place in a deep roasting pan.

3.

Add lard, garlic, garlic powder, onion, oregano, cumin, pepper, salt, olive oil, and jalapeños. Toss together with pork chunks in roasting

1 tablespoon salt 1 tablespoon garlic powder

pan until evenly coated.

4.

Bake for 3 and a half to 4 hours, or until internal temp reaches 185.

5.

Once internal temperature is at a 185-190 degrees, remove pork

2 jalapeños, rough chop

from roasting pan and arrange on a foil covered cookie sheet. Broil

2 tablespoons olive oil

crisped and meat has a few charred edges. With each piece of

on high for 5-6 minutes (turning if necessary), or until pork fat has broiled pork, you should shred, sprinkle with salt, and baste it with a small spoonful of pan liquid before storing or serving.

6.

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Serve on grilled tortillas with your favorite toppings and salsas.

scene

“That’s So Fancy Fashion Show” was held on Dec. 1st benefiting El Paso Children’s Hospital. Hosted by Grammy-nominated singer Jordin Sparks, this special event featured a children’s fashion show that included some EPCH pediatric patients. | Photos by: HENRY CRAVER |

120

scene

On Dec. 13, El Paso Behavioral Health celebrated the grand opening of their newly-expanded East Clinic with guest speakers City Representative Henry Rivera and Iris Lopez from KVIA. | Photos by: ANDY MARTINEZ |

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FEBRUARY 2019

February 2019

The City Calendar

2

SHEN YUN

ENHANCE THE ROMANCE COUPLE’S GALA ::: February 9

::: February 2-3

7:00 PM/1:00 PM/2:00 PM The Plaza Theatre The classical Chinese dance phenomenon marches on in 2019 with three presentations slotted for El Paso.

The performances feature classical Chinese dance interpretations along with orchestral accompaniment and solo performances. Bring the whole family to this dazzling display of culture, dance and music.

Admission: $80+ Info: shenyun.com

6:00 p.m.

Magic Bistro Come enjoy an intimate 5 course candle lit dinner.

This event is open to married and engaged couples only. Avoid the crowds and reignite your romance!

Admission: $80+ Info: eventbrite.com

9

2

UTEP DINNER THEATRE: NEWSIES THE BROADWAY MUSICAL ::: February 2, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10

7:00 PM UTEP Based on the Disney movie “Newsies,” this production is set in turn-of-the-century New York City. Join Jack Kelly, charismatic leader of the Newsies, as they take to the streets of the Big Apple in protest against the titans of publication.

It features a Tony Award-winning score by Alan Menken and Jack Feldman.

Admission: $5+ Info: utep.edu/liberalarts/udt 7

SHOWTIME EL PASO: SAXSATIONAL, THE NEXT GENERATION ::: February 7

7:00 PM Abraham Chavez Theatre This family friendly production uses regional talent to perform a repertoire of swing era classics alongside more contemporary music. Bring the whole family to enjoy these classic songs.

Admission: $35+ Info: showtimeelpaso.com

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10

9

JEWEL BOX SERIES PRESENTS: SHAKESPEARE ON THE RUN ::: February 10

2:30 a.m.

Get ready for the El Paso Community Foundation’s 5th annual Philanthropy Theatre production. The show includes unique performances by local groups that explore various interesting topics.

Admission: $80+ Info: epcf.org

14

LONESTAR 100

::: February 9-10

Franklin Mountain State Park Lace up those sneakers, this one is gonna be intense.

The signature El Paso foot race is back in 2019 and, as always, will end atop the North Franklin Peak, 7192 feet above sea level.

Info: trailracinggovertexas.com

WILLIE NELSON ::: February 14

8:00 p.m.

Abraham Chavez Theatre Texas icon Willie Nelson will be hitting the stage this coming Valentine’s day to promote his newest album, “My Way.” As a poet, activist, singer and songwriter, Willie Nelson will be sure to captivate the minds and hearts of attendees, so don’t miss out!

Admission: $65+ Info: willienelson.com

15

9

KINKY BOOTS ::: February 9

2:00 p.m./8:00 p.m.

The Plaza Theater The straight-laced inheritor of a shoe factory turns to a drag queen when he needs help saving the business. Original, fun, and witty, this one is certainly worth the admission price.

Admission: $30+ Info: kinkybootsthetour.com

HUECO ROCK RODEO ::: February 15-17

Hueco Tanks Park This three day event features films, slide shows, live music, clinics and, of course, its famous boulder climbing competition. You won’t want to miss seeing the world class climbers duke it out on our ancient rockpile.

Info: americanpineclub.org

www.thecitymagazineelp.com

February 2019

MARIACHI LOS CAMPEROS ::: February 15 8:00 p.m.

The Plaza Theatre

Celebrate the month of love by checking out 2-time Grammy winners Mariachi Los Camperos. Their high-energy sets will be sure to entertain the whole family. Known for their performances in world renowned music halls such as Disney Concert Hall and Carnegie Hall, they will be bringing their interpretations of traditional mariachi songs to the Plaza Theatre for an experience you will not want to miss.

17

t c e f Per

26

15

Admission: $64+ Info: elpasocoliseum.com

CHICAGO

::: February 26

7:30 p.m.

The Plaza Theater The legendary rockers will be touring a massive set that includes a full performance of the album “Chicago II”. You’ll recognize hits such as “25 Or 6 To 4”, “Wake Up Sunshine” and “Color My World.” What’s more, the show will be the band’s longest ever, covering the classic album in its entirety and other songs too.

Admission: $49.50 Info: chicagotheband.com

The

! r i a P

27

MICHELOB ULTRA MARATHON ::: February 17

7:00 a.m.

An official qualifier for the Boston Marathon, this race leads participants from El Paso’s Eastside all the way downtown. Don’t forget to stretch and hydrate before hand!

Info: elpasomarathon.org

TONY BENNETT ::: February 27

8:00 p.m.

The Plaza Theatre At 92 years old, Tony Bennett might not have many shows left. The perennial artist will be showcasing his iconic voice, with all its range and beauty, at the Plaza Theatre for fans of all ages. Don’t miss your chance to see this legendary singer in all his glory.

Admission: $59.50+ Info: tonybennett.com

28 30

22

s aso’

El P

N OW

EMPEROR

::: February 22 and 23

7:30 p.m.

The Plaza Theater The El Paso Symphony Orchestra brings you the music of Ludwig van Beethoven. Performed by Daria Kiseleva on piano, audiences will be able to enjoy Beethoven’s Piano Concerto No. 5 in E-flat major, op. 73 “Emperor.”

Admission: $16+ Info: epso.org

www.thecitymagazineelp.com

METALLICA

::: February 28

7:30 p.m.

Don Haskins Center The iconic heavy metal band will be visiting the Don Haskins as part of their Worldwired Tour. They are promoting their newest album “Hardwired…to Self-Destruct” which was released in 2016. Tickets for this event have sold quickly and will have to be purchased through verifiable resale.

Admission: $286+ Info: metallica.com

angryowlgrill.com /angryowl @angryowlgrill @angryowlgrill

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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.

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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

SAVE THE

DATE

You Are Invited BEST OF

2o18 FEBRUARY 23, 2019 7-11 P.M. DOORS OPEN AT 6:30 P.M.

El Paso Convention Center 1 CIVIC CENTER PLAZA

FOR MORE INFORMATION VISIT THECITYMAGAZINEELP.COM

$25 $30

IN ADVANCE AT THE DOOR

ALL PROCEEDS FROM THE TICKET SALES OF THIS EVENT WILL BENEFIT

www.thecitymagazineelp.com

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February, 2019

FEBruary Advertiser INDEX

128

Audi.............................................................................Pg. 129

Johnny Carino’s Italian.................................................Pg. 123

Ben Bridge Jewelers.....................................................Pg. 11

KTSM...........................................................................Pg. 111

Benjamin Law Firm........................................................Pg. 92

Lucchese Boots...........................................................Pg. 109

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

Luis Carlos Perez.........................................................Pg. 105

Connor Family Dentistry..............................................Pg. 117

Mesa Street Grill............................................................Pg. 23

DoubleTree by Hilton Hotel...........................................Pg. 83

Mix/Milan Salon & Day Spa...........................................Pg. 79

Edge of Texas................................................................Pg. 77

Nicholas Reyes Hair Salon...........................................Pg. 127

El Paso Behavioral Health System.................................Pg. 84

Ortho El Paso.................................................................Pg. 68

El Paso Bridal Showcase...............................................Pg. 25

Pacifica Homes..............................................................Pg. 77

El Paso’s Children’s Hospital.........................................Pg. 39

Smallcakes.....................................................................Pg. 53

El Paso Rhinos.............................................................Pg. 103

Southwest Plastic Surgery............................................Pg. 15

El Paso Spine Center.....................................................Pg. 87

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

Elyse Simons Beauty.....................................................Pg. 22

Spectrum Technologies.................................................Pg. 95

Farmers Insurance.........................................................Pg. 69

Sugar Skull Fashion Boutique........................................Pg. 65

FPI Management...........................................................Pg. 73

Sun City Orthopaedic & Hand Surgery Specialists........Pg. 93

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

Table Occasions...........................................................Pg. 114

Geico.............................................................................Pg. 37

The Angry Owl...............................................................Pg. 58

Grace the Psychic Lady...............................................Pg. 115

The Black Orchid Lounge............................................Pg. 108

High Society Limousines...............................................Pg. 45

The Hospitals of Providence.................................. Pgs. 17, 90

Hotel Indigo...................................................................Pg. 16

The Italian Kitchen West..............................................Pg. 115

Humane Society of El Paso...........................................Pg. 94

The State Line...............................................................Pg. 85

Indicium Display Network...................................... Pgs. 30, 76

The Wilson Trolley.......................................................Pg. 113

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

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

Institute Regenerative Medicine...................................Pg. 69

Vitalant...........................................................................Pg. 31

Intraceuticals...............................................................Pg. 110

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

InVogue Rejuvenation....................................................Pg. 59

Wyatt Underwood Trial Lawyers...................................Pg. 71

www.thecitymagazineelp.com