El Paso’s
Your Way Into Shape
Burgeoning Medical Scene
WHAT IS
Kundalini
Yoga?
HIT THE
TRAILS!
k c a b e s r o h on that is... 79
FeBRUARY 2019 PRICE $2.95
February, 2019
2 0 17 2 0 15 2 0 14
2 0 13
BEST
HO GIFT S
P
a bouquet of a bouquet of
fresh blooms
fresh blooms
INTRODUCING PRETTY POSIES
INTRODUCING PRETTY POSIES SHOP THE COLLECTION AT
www.thecitymagazineelp.com
7933 N. Mesa, Suite N, El Paso, TX 79932 Crossroads Village (Across from Sam’s Club) Store Hours 10-6 Monday-Saturday (915) 584-1183 1
February, 2019
2
February, 2019
3
February, 2019
Boots No7 Protect & Perfect Tackles Deep Lines & Wrinkles for Younger Looking Skin Anti-Aging • Instantly leaves skin looking healthier with regular use • Skin feels stronger & more elastic • Deep lines & wrinkles are reduced • Leaving you looking younger in just 4 weeks As skin ages, it’s structure is weakened, encouraging loss of elasticity and wrinkles. This powerful serum instantly leaves skin looking healthier. With regular use, skin feels stronger, more elastic and deep lines and wrinkles are reduced, leaving you looking younger in just four weeks.
Ask Your Pharmacist about the SERVICES that may be RIGHT FOR YOU IMMUNIZATIONS
CONVENIENCE
Flu 90 Day Supply* Pneumonia Automatic Refills* Shingles Express Pay Whooping Cough(Tdap)+ Meningitis+
HEALTH TEST
OTHER SERVICES
Cholesterol+ Blood Glucose+ Blood Pressure
Comprehensive Medication Review Flavoring Medicare Part B Diabetic Testing Supplies
SAVINGS Medicare Plan Review Generic Equivalent Prescription Savings Club *Subject to health plan coverage +May not be available at all locations Vaccines subject to availability
4
www.thecitymagazineelp.com
February, 2019
alamogordo 955 white sands blvd (575) 434.4116
10850 N LOOP DR (915) 860.1315
el paso
10600 MONTANA AVE (915) 591.4655
2112 trawood (915) 595-2788
8889 gateway west (915) 599.8571
2800 n mesa st (915) 533.6883
1831 N LEE TREVINO DR (915) 594.1129
1432 ANTONIO ST (915) 886.2413
2879 MONTANA AVE (915) 566.4464
10090 RUSHING RD (915) 755.9510
HORIZON CITY
5401 MONTANA AVE (915) 779.8825
800 N ZARAGOZA RD (915) 860.1670
1100 GERONIMO DR (915) 778.9301
2950 GEORGE DIETER DR (915) 856.7040
5900 N MESA ST (915) 584.1153
1329 GEORGE DIETER DR (915) 594.3838
302 s oregon st (915) 532.4344
10780 KENWORTHY ST (915) 821.2698
1210 WEDGEWOOD DR (915) 591.9496
1607 N ZARAGOZA RD (915) 856.0071
8050 N MESA ST (915) 585.0491
11685 MONTWOOD DR (915) 855.7704
890 N RESLER DR (915) 584.1359
12201 MONTWOOD DR (915) 856.0278
8045 N LOOP DR (915) 592.5849
12390 EDGEMERE BLVD (915) 849.6849
Find your copy of www.thecitymagazineelp.com
SOCORRO
9428 DYER ST (915) 751.4415
100 N AMERICAS AVE (915) 790.0404 ANTHONY
14300 HORIZON BLVD (915) 852.1561 LAS CRUCES 3490 northrise dr (575) 382.9100 3100 n main st (575) 525.0298 1256 EL PASEO RD (575) 525.8713 2300 e lohman ave (575) 647.2506 3990 e lohman ave (575) 522.1457 2700 w picacho ave (575) 523.0833
at a Walgreens near you 5
Casa B February, 2019
6
www.thecitymagazineelp.com
uenavista February, 2019
Mismaloya Bay at Puerto Vallarta
You’re invited to enjoy an
incredible lifestyle! Now you can enjoy all the amenities of a private villa in reasonable hotel-type rates with luxury that far exceeds.
your delicous meals, you simply provide the menu.
• SSatellite atellite TV, TV, wireless InternetInternet, , WirelessPC, , PCphone, , Phonoutdoor e ,Outdospeakers or speakers • Solar heated pool, children’s pool • Every bedroom has a spectacular view • Secluded Las Animas and Yelapa nearby by boat taxi • Fully-equipped kitchen, patio BBQ • Perched above beach at Lomas de Mismaloya • Up to 4 couples or family of 8-10 • Beautifully maintained private villa
Visit our website for a full photo gallery andwebsite explorefor thea villa on video! Visit our full photo gallery at www. www. mypvvilla.com Contact Us Today (915) 526-0390 585-1719 • www.mypvvilla.com reservations@mypvvilla.com www.thecitymagazineelp.com
7
EL PASO/LAS CRUCES
February, 2019
magazine
FASHION · HEALTH · TRAVEL
SAVE THE
DATE
You Are Invited
EDITORIAL Managing Editor Kim North | kim@thecitymagazineelp.com Editorial Assistant/Staff Writer Henry Craver | henry@thecitymagazineelp.com GRAPHIC Editorial Design Ernie Sanchez Creative | ernie@thecitymagazineelp.com Junior Graphic Designer Andy Martinez | andy@thecitymagazineelp.com
BEST OF
Graphic Design Intern Paulina Gines
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
EDITOR-IN-CHIEF Shelley Mozelle | shelley@thecitymagazineelp.com
IN ADVANCE AT THE DOOR
ALL PROCEEDS FROM THE TICKET SALES OF THIS EVENT WILL BENEFIT
BUSINESS Accountant Dawn Munoz | dawn@thecitymagazineelp.com Office Manager Josh Sanchez | josh@thecitymagazineelp.com SPECIAL PROJECTS Brandi Lambert
Pick a copy of
ADVERTISING Development-Sales-Marketing Joe Rivera | joe@thecitymagazineelp.com Senior Advertising Executive
Chaz Wilson | chaz@thecitymagazineelp.com AT YOUR LOCAL WALGREENS Advertising Executives Jesse Maynes | jesse@thecitymagazineelp.com Oscar Acosta | oscar@thecitymagazineelp.com Marisol Bustillos | marisol@thecitymagazineelp.com Kristin Brown | kristin@thecitymagazineelp.com
THE CITY
Marisa Cedillo | marisa@thecitymagazineelp.com Inside Sales Genevieve Frias
INTERNS Pilar Muñoz, Biyanca Gomez
HOW TO REACH US P.O. Box 226 El Paso, Texas 79942 (915) 500-5730 | info@thecitymagazineelp.com
MAGAZINE Cover Design By: Ernie Sanchez Creative
Letters addressed to The City El Paso Magazine become the property of the magazine, and it owns all rights to their use. Letters may be edited for space. All rights to the contents of this magazine are owned in full by the magazine and may not be reproduced in whole or in part without written permission from the Editor in Chief. Views expressed herein are those of the authors and advertisers and do not necessarily reflect the opinion of the ownership or management of the magazine.
JOIN US All rights reserved.
www.thecitymagazineelp.com
8
February, 2019
traditions B E G I N W H E R E memories A R E M A D E
WHERE
F U L L C A S I N O | L U X U RY R E S O R T | Z I P L I N E C H A M P I O N S H I P G O L F | F U L L S E R V I C E S PA InnoftheMountainGods.com www.thecitymagazineelp.com
| 1-800-545-9011 | Mescalero, NM
9
contents
February, 2019
FEBRUARY 2019 VOLUME 79
18
IN THIS ISSUE: HIDDEN GEM...82
18
Dr. Erica Renee Alvarez LOCAL ONCOLOGIST BRINGS FIELD’S MOST ADVANCED TREATMENTS TO EL PASO
26
26
ARTIST SPOTLIGHT...74
FITNESS...88
Features
Dr. Hans Brockhoff A MICROVASCULAR SURGEON LEADING THE WAY IN THE FIGHT AGAINST CANCER
32
32
Dr. Alberto Maud ONE OF THE REGION’S TOP NEUROINTERVENTIONALISTS
40
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
www.thecitymagazineelp.com
February, 2019
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
11
CONT RIBU TORS
12
February, 2019
Andy Martinez
Pablo Delgadillo
Elaine Gordon
Jannet Bustillos
Hope Alegre
Janene Rojas
Jenn Márquez
Pilar Muñoz
Jesse Maynes
David Parish
Ladonna Apodoca
Dav Anmed
Veronica Nevarez
Grace The Psychic Lady
Zak Hansen
Lizzie Martinez
Robert Diaz
Henry Craver
Art Moreno Jr.
Marie Moore
www.thecitymagazineelp.com
February, 2019
Erin Coulehan
El Paso’s
Your Way Into Shape
Burgeoning Medical Scene
WHAT IS
Kundalini
Yoga?
HIT THE
TRAILS!
eback on horsat th is... 79
Elyse Simons
FeBRUARY 2019 PRICE $2.95
DEC/JAN 2019 PRICE $3.95
SUBSCRIBE NOW John Horta
Jonathan Weingers
Name: Address/Apt. Phone: City/State/Zip: Email: THE CITY & THE CITY SPACES $25 (one year)
Michelle Cromer
www.thecitymagazineelp.com
PLEASE MAKE CHECKS TO: THE CITY MAGAZINE P.O. Box 226 El Paso, TX 79942 FOR CREDIT/DEBIT ORDERS CALL (915) 500-5730 info@thecitymagazineelp.com
13
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.
14
www.thecitymagazineelp.com
February, 2019
2017 2016
2015 2014 2013
C B ES T C O S M ETI CE CTI SURG E RY P R A
15
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
www.thecitymagazineelp.com
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
www.thecitymagazineelp.com
The Hospitals of Providence Sierra Campus, 1625 Medical Center Drive, El Paso, TX 79902
17
February, 2019
18
www.thecitymagazineelp.com
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!
www.thecitymagazineelp.com
19
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
20
www.thecitymagazineelp.com
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!
professional makeup artistry bridal • print • video • special events
610.360.0501 w w w. e l y s e s i m o n s . c o m elyse@elysesimons.com 22
elysesimonsbeauty
www.thecitymagazineelp.com
February, 2019
Mesa Street Grill Happy Hour
Enjoy premium cocktails at special happy hour pricing. Monday - Friday 4-7 p.m.
www.thecitymagazineelp.com
23
(915) 532-1881 | 3800 N. Mesa St D1, El Paso, TX 79902 | mesastreetgrill.com
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. 24
www.thecitymagazineelp.com
FULL PAGE WITH BLEED February, 2019
FULL PAGE NO BLEED
presents
Bridal
FULL PAGE NO BLEED 8” x 9.875”
FULL PAGE WITH BLEED
EL
DOUBLE PAGE NO BLEED 17” x 9.875” PASO
DOUBLE PAGE WITH BLEED
TRIM SIZE 9” x 10.875”
TRIM SIZE 18” x 10.875”
BLEED SIZE 9.25” x 11.125” (1/8” bleed all around)
BLEED SIZE 18.25” x 11.125” (1/8” bleed all around)
LIVE AREA 8” x 9.875”
LIVE AREA 17” x 9.875”
q February 24, 2019
E.P.I.C. CMYK RAILYARD event CENTER CMYK 300dpi 300dpi www.elpasobridalshowcase.com
www.thecitymagazineelp.com
25
February, 2019
26
www.thecitymagazineelp.com
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
www.thecitymagazineelp.com
27
February, 2019
28
www.thecitymagazineelp.com
February, 2019
www.thecitymagazineelp.com
Dr. Hans Brockhoff
29
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
www.thecitymagazineelp.com
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
www.thecitymagazineelp.com
31
For more information, go to vitalant.org
February, 2019
32
www.thecitymagazineelp.com
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
www.thecitymagazineelp.com
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.�
34
www.thecitymagazineelp.com
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.
915-779-2489
6600 Montana Avenue, El Paso
Saving people money on more than just car insurance.® Some discounts, coverages, payment plans and features are not available in all states or all GEICO companies. Motorcycle and ATV coverages are underwritten by GEICO Indemnity Company. Homeowners, renters and condo coverages are written through non-affiliated insurance companies and are secured through the GEICO Insurance Agency, Inc. Boat and PWC coverages are underwritten by GEICO Marine Insurance Company. www.thecitymagazineelp.com 37 GEICO is a registered service mark of Government Employees Insurance Company, Washington, D.C. 20076; a Berkshire Hathaway Inc. subsidiary. GEICO Gecko image © 1999-2018. © 2018 GEICO
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...
44 likes
270 likes
51 likes
WANT TO SHARE YOUR LOVE FOR EL PASO?
#EPStateofMind so we can discover your post!
1,885 likes
44
110 likes
www.thecitymagazineelp.com
February, 2019
El Paso's very own luxury car service. Call to book now at 915-308-3655 or  check out our fleet at HighSocietyEP.com.
www.thecitymagazineelp.com
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 MicraŽ 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
www.thecitymagazineelp.com
February, 2019
Love
YOUR BODY AGAIN SculpSure® FAT R E D U C T I O N BODY SCULPTING SMARTLIPO™ I N J E C TA B L E S BOTOX® U LT H E R A P Y ® INFERTILITY WOMEN EXAMS OB/GYN
H Y D R A FA C I A L M D ® L A S E R H A I R R E M O VA L FA C I A L R E J U V E N AT I O N
We offer care tailored to your needs www.thecitymagazineelp.com
59
February, 2019
2018 Where in d? the Worl
Unique e Guys Lik o! To ts if G
Should
IDS BRIDHEaSveMaA Voice?
Guys L Gifts Toike o!
Treats, Eats, Drinks
Thinking of going
Thinkingg of goin
SMALL?
5
2018 weddings
UniqWuheerHeoinnthe World? eymoon s
Shou Bridesmld Have a Voaids ice?
oons Honeym
SMALL?
The
The
5
wedding s 2018 PRI CE $4.95
5 PRICE $4.9
The
The City Magazine brings you
El Paso’s
Only Bridal Magazine of its kind!
The City Weddings is El Paso’s premiere local wedding guide. Find everything you need for your big day and see some of El Paso’s best weddings.
One Bridal Magazine, Two Beautiful Covers! Pick up your “2018 Bridal Guide” at your local Walgreens! For more information contact us at info@thecitymagazineelp.com 60
THE CITY MAGAZINE
|
915.500.5730
|
thecitymagazineelp.com
www.thecitymagazineelp.com
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
www.thecitymagazineelp.com
February, 2019
Sugar Skull
125 Thunderbird Suite G www.thecitymagazineelp.com
sugurskull
El Paso, TX 79912
(915) 243 - 3139
sugarskull_boutique
65
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.
www.thecitymagazineelp.com
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
www.thecitymagazineelp.com
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
Bad weather doesn’t just affect your home, it affects your business, too.
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.
www.thecitymagazineelp.com
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
Thank you for voting us best law firm For Three years in a row!
BEST T TORNE A
B E S T L AW F I R M
B E S T L AW F I R M
Y
OUR FIRM IS COMMITTED
to tough, aggressive representation that protects our clients’ rights and interests.
W YAT T/ UN D ERWO OD
www.thecitymagazineelp.com
C R I M I N A L | FA M I LY | I NJ URY
915-485-9100
71
705 Texas Avenue, El Paso, Texas 79901 wyattunderwoodtriallawyers.com
February, 2019
February, 2019
A
ccording to the National Heart Foundation, coronary heart disease is a typical factor in heart attacks and “happens when your coronary arteries
February is
HEART HEALTH MONTH Here are some facts to keep you healthy and in the know.
get narrower and reduce the blood flow to the heart.� Risks of getting
heart disease are: high cholesterol or high blood pressure, smoking, being overweight or obese, not having enough physical activity and not maintaining a healthy diet. Symptoms of a heart attack include: pain or discomfort in the chest, lightheadedness or nausea, pain in the neck and jaw area, discomfort or pain in the shoulder, and shortness of breath. The American Heart Association warns not to wait if you have any of these symptoms.
Nearly 5 out of 10 adults in the U.S. have high blood pressure. Approximately every 40 seconds, an American will have a heart attack. More than half of those who have already had one or more coronary attacks have another attack. More than 1 in 3 adults have cardiovascular diseases in the U.S. About 49 percent of Americans have high blood pressure, high LDL cholesterol, or smoke, which increases their risk of heart disease. Cardiovascular diseases claim more lives each year than all forms of cancer and chronic lower respiratory diseases combined.
72 www.thecitymagazineelp.com
www.thecitymagazineelp.com 72
February, 2019
The Lifestyle You Deserve.
Just Visiting?
MAKE IT PERMANENT.
Las Lomas 500 Rubin Drive El Paso, TX 79912 (915) 833-7444
Butterfield Trail 10330 N Gateway Blvd. El Paso, TX 79924 (915) 821-8282
La Privada 9030 Betel El Paso, TX 79907 (915) 858-1002
Terrace Hill 4111 Westcity Court El Paso, TX 79902 (915) 533-6300
Independence Place 4011 Alabama St El Paso, TX 79930 (915) 562-4300
Spring Park 9535 Acer Drive El Paso, TX 79925 (915) 594-7411
SUN HOLLOW 1601 Lee Trevino El Paso, TX 79936 (915) 592-5666
LAKE FAIRWAY 1642 Lomaland Dr El Paso, TX 79935 (915) 592-5954
RIDGEMAR 10701 Vista Del Sol drive El Paso, TX 79935 (915) 591-8105
Live el paso www.thecitymagazineelp.com
73
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.
pacificahomesjj.com | pacificahomesjj@gmail.com
No credit? Bad credit? We finance! Call JJ today at 915.740.9399
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
C
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.
78 www.thecitymagazineelp.com
www.thecitymagazineelp.com 78
February, 2019
Chemical peel-Dermaplaning and Eyelash Specials, Call Now!
Master Hair Stylist | Nails | Skin | Wax | Makeup | Microblading | Massage
915.351.0032 | Mixsalonspa.com www.thecitymagazineelp.com
915.629.7707 | MilanSalonandspa.com 79
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
www.thecitymagazineelp.com
83
Feeling sad, overwhelmed or struggling with addiction? El Paso Behavioral Health System can help. We offer inpatient & outpatient behavioral health treatment for all ages: • Children • Adolescents • Adults We provide targeted services for: • Women • Seniors • Military members
Don’t wait. Begin a healthier future with us today.
Call 915-544-4000 or 800-967-3411.
1900 Denver Avenue El Paso, TX 79902 elpasobh.com With limited exceptions, physicians are not employees or agents of this hospital. Model representations of real patients are shown. Actual patients cannot be divulged 84due to HIPAA regulations. For language assistance, disability accommodations and the non-discrimination notice, visit our website. 182477
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
MINIMALLY INVASIVE
SPINE SURGERY
CALL TODAY
TO SOLVE YOUR BACK PAIN PROBLEMS Because minimally invasive surgery uses a very small incision (usually about 1/2 inch in diameter), it reduces damage to surrounding tissue and muscles as compared to traditional surgical techniques. It also means that recovery times are greatly reduced and there is less pain after surgery. Minimally invasive surgery may be right for you if more conservative treatments have not helped to reduce your pain. www.thecitymagazineelp.com
(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
IT: Simplified We support your copier.
Now trust us with your IT.
CYBER SECURITY
PHONE SYSTEMS (VOIP)
REMOTE MONITORING
PROFESSIONAL EMAIL
WEBSITE HOSTING
VIRUS PROTECTION
DATA BACKUP & RECOVERY
MANAGED IT SERVICES
24/7 HELP DESK
CONTACT US TODAY FOR A FREE CONSULTATION SpectrumIsTechnology.com • (915) 781-2000
www.thecitymagazineelp.com
Supporting Business Owners Since 1903 PRINTERS & COPIERS • IT • DIGITAL & PRINT MARKETING
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 |
106
www.thecitymagazineelp.com
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.
www.thecitymagazineelp.com
107
t r av e l
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
www.thecitymagazineelp.com
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
109
February, 2019
110
www.thecitymagazineelp.com
February, 2019
www.thecitymagazineelp.com
111
5 Pack Becoming One Of
the
| By: ERICA SALAS-ZAVALA, Special Events Coordinator |
112
www.thecitymagazineelp.com
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
www.thecitymagazineelp.com
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.
www.thecitymagazineelp.com
115
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.
116
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)
Prrdly SSving El Paso! West Side
840 E. REDD RD. BLDG. 1-B EL PASO, TX 79912 (915) 581 - 1771
East Side
1920 N. ZARAGOZA SUITE 107 EL PASO, TX 79938 (915) 856 - 1771
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
118
www.thecitymagazineelp.com
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.
www.thecitymagazineelp.com
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 |
121
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
122
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
123
August, 2018
DOWNTOWN
DOWNTOWN
Anson 11 $$-$$$
Park Tavern
303 N. Oregon St. Ste. 110 | (915) 504-6400
204 E. Mills Ave. | (915) 228-9050
Anson 11 is two exceptional dining experiences dedicated to the
From the same people that brought you 150 Sunset, Park Tavern is a
military man, the gentleman and the food connoisseur that was
new lunch and dining experience in downtown. With many options
Anson Mills. For a downtown dining experience like no other, Anson
available, from creamy chicken pasta to buttery fried fish, this new
11 is the restaurant to go to. PR, H
addition to the block is a welcoming place to satisfy your cravings.
$$
NORTHEAST
The Downtowner $$ 325 N. Kansas St. | (915) 532-5200 Eat like a downtowner. Found on the ground floor of the Hotel Indigo, The Downtowner offers breakfast, lunch and dinner - the only breakfast spot available in downtown El Paso. The restaurant delivers great American taste with a twist of our Southwest flair. Savor the amazing dishes offered on the menu and enjoy a cold and carefully crafted cocktail while enjoying the gorgeous views of downtown.
124
Prices: $ - Low Priced Patio/Outdoor Seating - O
$$ - Medium Range Dog Friendly- DF
Edge of Texas
$$$
8690 Edge of Texas St. | (915) 822-3343 Located in the far east, this is definitely worth the drive! Eat the best steak you’ve ever had and enjoy the saloon.
$$$ - High Priced $$$$ - Exquisite Dining Party/Private Room - PR Happy Hour - H
To highlight your local restaurant in The City Local Eats email: info@thecitymagazineelp.com
www.thecitymagazineelp.com
WESTSIDE August, 2018
Mi Piaci
WESTSIDE
Avila’s
$$$
$$
5411 N. Mesa, Suite 1 | (915) 875-0034
6232 N. Mesa St. | (915) 584-3621
Join Mi Piaci Ristorante Italiano for lunch or dinner with Chef/Owner
Winning Best Taco for Best of The City 2015 and Best Chips
Cosimo Baltaglia, who hails from Calabria, Italy, for the freshest
and Salsa in 2014, Avila’s has a savory Mexican menu that will
seafood, gourmet hand-cut Angus reserve steaks aged 21 days,
satisfy your cravings. We’re open for weekend breakfast, have
and gently homemade pasta from Italy. O
lunch specials available daily and a convenient pick-up window is accessible for family dinners on the go. PR
Jerusalem Grill $$
Westside’s 3rd Hole
5380 N. Mesa St. | (915) 500-4357
1035 Belvidere Suite 168 | (915) 584-5577
Jerusalem is a low-key eatery where you can find authentic gyros,
There’s no better place to relax and grab a bite to eat than W3H. Nominated
baba ghanoush, shish kababs and more. Their appetizer combo is
as El Paso’s best tacos, stop by today and see why we’re becoming El
complete with hummus, baba ghanoush, grape leaves, spanakopita
Paso’s go-to spot for catching a game and eating some good food. “We
and falafel. Your tastebuds will enjoy this retreat to an amazing
saved you a seat.” Now with NFL Sunday Ticket on all screens. O, H
$$
array of dishes. Serving El Paso Authentic Italian Cuisine since 1948 • Private Party Room • Beer & Wine • Outside Dining • Live Music Thur. to Sat. • We cater large or small events
The State Line
$$
1222 Sunland Park Dr. I (915) 581-3371 Enjoying delicious authentic BBQ from The State Line. Based on four principles: offer the highest quality smoked BBQ, provide generous portions at affordable prices, offer friendly table and bar services and www.thecitymagazineelp.com celebrate the heritage of Texas. Come on by to enjoy!
Italian Kitchen West
$$
450 Thorn Ave. | (915) 842-0775 Enjoy boundless savory Italian classics either at their outdoor Italian.Kitchen. Westpatio
or intimate and comfortable atmosphere inside.www.theitaliankitchenelpaso.com Italian Kitchen West m is doling out classic pizzas, mouth-watering pastas with great wine pairs and Italian meat entrees. Stay local, but enjoy the cuisine from 125 an ocean away. O, PR
UNIVERSITY/KERN
WESTSIDE
The Kitchen
August, 2018
Mesa Street Grill $$$
$$
150 Sunset | (915) 585-0801
3800 N Mesa St., Ste D1 | (915) 532-1881
Whether you’re looking for brunch, a quick lunch or a nice sit-down dinner
Mesa Street Grill introduces their newest dessert creation – the Pineapple
with views of El Paso’s sunsets, you will find all that you need at The
Crostata. This refreshing blend of pineapple, cinnamon and nutmeg is
Kitchen at 150 Sunset. Be sure to also check out our special wine dinners,
crowned with a cashew crumble and handmade sugar garnish. Taste this
with a specially curated menu and wine pairing. Come and treat yourself.
dessert once and it’s sure to become a summertime favorite. O, H, PR, H
P, H, DF, PR
Johnny Carino’s
Angry Owl Southwest Grill & Cantina
$$
$$
675 Sunland Park Dr. | (915) 581-7042
4799 N. Mesa St. | (915) 532-2450
1201 Airway Blvd. | (915) 778-7771
1700 N. Zaragoza Rd., Ste. 128 | (915) 300-1004
From traditional Italian dishes like Chicken Parmesan, to the more
This colorful Southwestern eatery offers mesquite-spiced, Mexican-
creative “Spiced Italian” fare like the Spicy Shrimp and Chicken and
inspired chow and potent cocktails. From seafood and ribs to fajitas
Jalapeno Garlic Tilapia, Johnny Carino’s has food and drinks to satisfy
and wings, you’ll find plenty of southwestern flavors to tempt your
your hunger for great food in a family-friendly atmosphere. H
palate. PR, H
EASTSIDE
Cattleman’s Steakhouse
$$$
King Crab $$$
3450 S. Fabens Carlsbad Rd. Fabens, TX 79838 | (915) 544-3200
1700 N. Zaragoza Suite 154 | (915) 849-8697
This is a family-style restaurant located on a 46 square mile working
You can’t get seafood like this anywhere else in El Paso. With Chef Pierre
ranch. Come savor our famous juicy steaks and mesquite-smoked BBQ while enjoying miles of desert scenery and spectacular sunsets! PR, O 126
bringing his Cajun home-style cooking from New Orleans, the seafood boils and dishes will leave your mouth watering for more. Fresh seafood www.thecitymagazineelp.com is brought in twice a week. Come in and try for yourself. PR, H
August, 2018
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
127
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