Meet El Paso’s
WOMEN IN BUSINESS
KID’S WORLD It’s a
Summer’s Approaching
Keeli Jernigan On Leading a
50
Women-Owned Company In North America
Fastest-Growing
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FASHION · HEALTH · TRAVEL May, 2014
EDITOR-IN-CHIEF Shelley Mozelle shelley@thecitymagazineelp.com
BUSINESS MANAGER COVER: Keeli Jernigan PHOTOGRAPHY BY: Dav Anmed
HAIR BY: David Paul of Quartermane Salon
MAKE UP BY: Claudia Castillo
COVER STORY BY: Brenda Castaneda
Josh Sanchez josh@thecitymagazineelp.com
EDITOR Kim North kim@thecitymagazineelp.com
EDITORIAL ASSISTANT/STAFF WRITER Meagan Kinley
DISTRIBUTION MANAGER/ EVENT COORDINATOR Chaz Wilson
EDITORIAL DESIGN Ernie Sanchez Creative
WEB PRODUCER/JUNIOR DESIGNER Ryan Heape ryan@thecitymagazineelp.com
ADMINISTRATIVE ASSISTANT Natalie Rosales natalie@thecitymagazineelp.com
SALES MANAGER Joseph D. Dias joe@thecitymagazineelp.com
ADVERTISING EXECUTIVES
Retraction: In our April 2014 issue “The El Paso Club Celebrates its 50th Year” we incorrectly stated their membership fees. The correct dues for membership are $50.00 per month, and from now through the month of September 2014 the $175 initiation fee will be waived for anyone who mentions the story in the magazine. Thank you El Paso Club!
Subscription form can be found on page 156.
Jacqueline Ramsey - Senior Advertising Executive jackie@thecitymagazineelp.com Chaz Wilson chaz@thecitymagazineelp.com Sharon Passantino sharon@thecitymagazineelp.com Javier R. Delgado javier@thecitymagazineelp.com Eddie M. Algarin eddie@thecitymagazineelp.com
EDITORIAL CONTRIBUTORS “The City ” El Paso Magazine welcomes your comments. Please send letters to “Letters to the Editors” 5925 Silver Springs Dr., Suite A El Paso, Texas 79912, or email the editors. Phone number: (915) 500-5730. Fax: (915) 500-5732. Letters addressed to The City El Paso Magazine become the property of the magazine, and it owns all rights to their use. Letters may be edited for space.
All rights to the contents of this magazine are owned in full by the magazine and may not be reproduced in whole or in part without written permission from the Editors in Chief. Views expressed herein are those of the authors and advertisers and do not necessarily reflect the opinion of the ownership or management of the magazine. All rights reserved.
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Felipa Solis, Jannet Bustillos, Grace Neuhaus, Michelle Cromer, Patrick Martínez, Meagan Kinley, Josh Sanchez, Michael Graham, Vic Poulos, Brittany Sawrey, Joann Wardy, Robin Niland, Marko Morales, Natalie Rosales, Erika Lopez, Adair Margo, Reed Loney, Candace Vasquez, Brenda Castaneda, JoLene Keipp, Andrés Rodríguez, Jose Soto, Soffia Wardy, Valentin Sandoval, Desiree Lozano, John Del Rosario, Chantel Crews Ancell, Matthew Abraham, Kristofer Johnson.
PHOTOGRAPHY Dav Anmed, Robert Corral, Luis Miranda, Jr., Tommie Morelos
CREATIVE SUPPORT Theresa Guerra, Ibrahim Sánchez
May, 2014
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May, 2014
Editor–in–Chief For a woman, in all realms of life it takes courage to stretch our limits, express our power, and fulfill our potential. Sometimes, our best successes come on the high-heels of failures.
T
emperatures are up and then down
into a project, the pieces begin to fit together,
again. The wind is making us all
and just when it finally all clicks into place
tightly hold on to our skirts, but
someone recognizes our hard work. We’ve
no matter the spring weather, it is
spent the last few months sifting through
always a great time to live in El Paso. I proudly
the many women whose successes have
mention skirts because this is our “Women in
been brought to the attention of our editorial
Business Issue” and we’re celebrating skirts,
board. We wish we could bring each of their
the women who wear the skirts in the family
stories to you, but all in due time.
(opposite the pants in the family…LOL), the moms who are the glue to the families, and the
Let’s start with our cover woman, Keeli
women who are the glue to their companies.
Jernigan. She’s the Chief Executive Officer of Trans-Expedite, a full service logistics
As women, I’m sure we all wish there were
company that is one of the city’s, and the
blueprints to success. Blueprints for stay-
state’s, leading woman-owned businesses.
at-home-moms, blueprints for women-run
She admits that it’s a challenge balancing her
businesses, and especially blueprints for
role as a wife and mother of two young sons,
moms who wipe runny noses on their way
and the CEO of a major enterprise.
out the door, headed to the office to put out fires in Corporate America. Well girls, sadly,
Another impressive businesswoman who
those instructions don’t exist. We are the
deserves recognition is Elodia Perches-
generation who will write those blueprints,
Adamson, owner of Ella Blue and Bridal
and just about the time we get our instruction
Novias. Her story begins with that of travels.
manual ready to print, the rules will change.
She’s been around the world and brings her
Confession: I love being an entrepreneur; it’s
treasures and shopping experiences back to
an incredible experience…but it isn’t always
El Paso, to enrich those of us wishing we
easy. An adventure? Definitely. All sunshine
were able to slip into her suitcase unnoticed.
and rainbows? Not so much.
When asked the key to her success, she told us, “Success is loving what you do so much
Over the years I’ve learned many things. I’ve
that you never want to retire.”
learned that although the dress, the skirt, is very, very, important, what’s more important
There are always those who take the back
is the strong-driven woman in the dress that
seat, those who glue the pieces together,
really makes the difference.
unrecognized by the outside world, and one of those women we’ve chosen to
We were inspired by and salute the women
spotlight is Channel 9 News Director Lauren
in this issue; each of whom I am convinced
Macias-Cervantes. Lauren credits her drive,
is capable of changing the world. And I’m
determination and unrelenting work ethic to
excited to live in the city that they help
her mom Jenny. Although she’s had offers for
improve and where they’ve chosen to make
out of town opportunities, she stays in El Paso
their mark. What does it mean to be a woman
for the love of culture, synergy and familia.
recognized for her work? We all know how
Those who know me know I have a love for
wonderful it feels when we pour our energies
horse racing! Exciting was the news when
4
Hollywood announced the filming of the story of Mine That Bird, the 2009 Kentucky Derby Winner, involving our own Sunland Park Race Track. This film allowed the racing lover to relive that Kentucky Derby story. I don’t often have time to write, but I poured every detail I knew (…well, not every detail) out on paper (some 3,000 words), unable to stop myself. When our Editor Kim North saw the editorial she shook her head no, and said, “Cut it, we’re over page count.” Even in our office the businesswomen carry a big stick. Enjoy every page of our Women in Business Issue and don’t worry gentlemen, I’m really not a feminist; next month we’ve dedicated an entire magazine just for you. Let the summer begin!
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May, 2014
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May, 2014
contents
43
JDW INSURANCE - 2009 El Paso, Texas
profiles
W MEN IN BUSINESS By: THE CITY
The City Features 24
36
Keeli Jernigan
The City
The City
A Success Story
Crystal Long GECU’s President and CEO
By: BRENDA CASTANEDA
By: MICHAEL C. GRAHAM
By: ERIKA LOPEZ
32
The City
Chasing Down the Facts KTSM’s Lauren Macias-Cervantes
80
76
74
A Glorious Road to Success Patricia Holland-Branch
84 The City
Blessed to be a Blessing Gina Carameros
Around the World WEA VER scott weaver photography and Back, Elodia Perches-Adamson
By: DESIREE LOZANO
By: MEAGAN KINLEY
The City
88 The City
By: CHANTEL FacilitiesConnection
Taking the Complexity out of Interiors for Over 20 Years
CREWS ANCELL
94 92
Tales of Honor El Paso’s Own Megan Glancey
Where Are They Now?
Artist Spotlight
By: MEAGAN KINLEY
By: VALENTIN SANDOVAL
By: JOSE SOTO
98
Sports
On the Fast Track Utep’s Janice Jackson By: REED LONEY
110
Lindsay Hovel Hits Hollywood
Candace Reyes A Creator of Jazz Music
102 A History of Mothering
Mother’s Day 2014
106 The City
Teacher of the Year 2014 EPISD Nominations
By: BRITTANY SAWREY
The City | Mercedes-Benz
of El Paso A New Face, Same Commitment to Service
114
Hidden Gems
Pinup Express Coffee
By: MEAGAN KINLEY
116
By: ANDRÉS RODRÍGUEZ
118
The City
The City Girl 2013 Summer Stout By: MEAGAN KINLEY
122
The Look
Chic Chick By: JOSH SANCHEZ
The City
Eli Reyes, Pageanting With a Purpose By: BRITTANY SAWREY
By: MARKO MORALES
8
Junior League Of El Paso, Inc.
The City
132
In & Out
Step into Spring Style By: NATALIE ROSALES
www.thecitymagazineelp.com
May, 2014
www.thecitymagazineelp.com
9
May, 2014
140
s Profile
The City
136
Hair Wars Supreme Salon Tour Coming to El Paso
Beauty
Lashing Out Trends and Tips
By: VALENTIN SANDOVAL
By: MATTHEW ABRAHAM
144 148 Fitness
Beauty is the Beast
The City
B y: T H E
150
Spirituality
Entertaining
By: VIC POULOS
By: SOFFIA WARDY
By: MEAGAN KINLEY
Chocolate, Martinis, and Finding Your Goddess
The Gift of Hospitality
By: MICHELLE CROMER
168
162 166
Kids Excel El Paso Presents Mathematical Mystery Tour
C IT Y
154
Wine
Food, Wine and Fat
By: PATRICK MARTINEZ
Parenting
The City
Summer Water Safety
School’s Out For Summer! Local Summer Camps
By: ROBIN NILAND
By: JOLENE REZA KEIPP
172
The Astro Child
174 Zoo
The City
The City
By: GRACE THE PSYCHIC LADY
By: BRITTANY SAWREY
By: KRISTOFER JOHNSON
By: JOHN DEL ROSARIO
Astrology
184 The City
A Wild Summer Camp
Polo Real Tradition on the Border By: ADAIR MARGO
196 Etiquette
Treat Administration Aides with Respect By: JOANN WARDY
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157
176
This is EP Bike Month
188 Movies
“50 to 1” No Long Shot by Any Means By: FELIPA SOLIS
197 Medical
No Sweat! By: DR. LYLE D. WEEKS
180
The Show Must Go On!
190 The City
The Story Behind the Movie Mine that Bird By: SHELLEY MOZELLE
198 Investment
Zen and 10 Habits for Financial Stability and Success By: MONICA SALAIZ NARVAEZ
www.thecitymagazineelp.com
May, 2014
The Contributors
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3
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1) Michael C. Graham 2) GRACE The Psychic Lady 3) FELIPA SOLIS 4) Meagan Kinley 5) MICHELLE CROMER 12
6) DAV ANMED 7) Victor Poulos 8) JANNET BUSTILLOS 9) Josh Sanchez 10) PATRICK L. MARTINEZ
May, 2014
11) Robert Corral 12) Adair Margo 13) Candace Vasquez 14) Andrés Rodríguez 15) Soffia wardy www.thecitymagazineelp.com
May, 2014
El Paso
Far East Store New Eastside Store Westside Store North East Store Ranch Market Clearance Ctr Zaragoza 9813 Dyer St. 855-9500 595-5954 585-1555 751-5555
Las Cruces
855-9500
1265 El Paseo Rd.
647-2085
307-7396
315 S. Telshor Blvd.
532-1144
the-mattressstore.com www.thecitymagazineelp.com
13
May, 2014
1
For full contributor bios go to www.thecitymagazineelp.com
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16) Erika Lopez 17) brenda Castaneda 18) Jose Soto 19) Chantel Crews Ancell 20) jolene keipp 21) Valentin sandoval 22) Brittany Sawrey 23) Matthew Abraham 24) Robin Niland
25) LUIS MIRANda, jr. 26) Joann Wardy 27) Tommie Morelos 28) Marko morales 29) Reed Loney 30) Natalie Rosales 31) Kristofer Johnson 32) Desiree Lozano 33) John Del Rosario
www.thecitymagazineelp.com
SPHN Bariatric City Mag 4.pdf
May, 2014
C
M
Y
CM
MY
CY
CMY
K
1
4/24/14
11:57 AM
May, 2014
Cutter Aviation Aircraft Sales your Daher-Socata TBM 900 Dealer!
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Cutter Aviation ELP
16
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May, 2014
nationally ranked in 12 specialties. the difference between practicing medicine and leading it. When a diagnosis can affect your life, how far would you travel for the best? As one of the best hospitals in America, according to U.S. News & World Report, Houston Methodist is the choice of patients from around the country for their critical health needs. That’s why we offer complimentary medical and concierge services for out of town patients, making it as easy as possible for patients to access the best. For appointments, trip-planning assistance and more, call 877.790.DOCS. houstonmethodist.org/usa
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May, 2014
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May, 2014
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May, 2014
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 21
May, 2014
22
www.thecitymagazineelp.com
May, 2014
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May, 2014
a Success Story
S
| By: BRENDA L. CASTANEDA photography by: DAV ANMED |
September 11, 2001 was a tragic
of the September 11 tragedy, they moved
day in the history of our country and it
to El Paso, Texas to open a business that
changed our lives forever. Everything
would later thrive as one of the city’s leading,
after that day would be different,
women-owned businesses. On October 1,
from boarding airplanes to what we
2001, Keeli Jernigan, along with her partner
packed in our luggage. The face
and husband, Mark, opened their freight
of travel in and out of the United
business with a $29,000 family loan and only
States was forever changed. The
two other employees. Trans-Expedite, “a
changes that were in place after
trusted, full service logistics company” whose
9/11 created new rules and much stricter
“core competency is the time-sensitive
guidelines for everything we did regarding all
transportation of critical cargo throughout the
types of travel – all in the name of the highest
United States and around the world” was
level of security for our nation.
created. Starting any business during this period for our country was challenging
The radical changes that affected the
but most especially for a certified
transportation industry did not stop Mark and
indirect air carrier moving freight
Keeli Jernigan from realizing their dream. In
on commercial airlines. The
2001, shortly after the devastating events
timing
www.thecitymagazineelp.com
of
the
start-
25
May, 2014
26
www.thecitymagazineelp.com
Keeli Jernigan
May, 2014
up of their operation proved to be a smart move. Although they were regulated by the Transportation and Security Administration and the process for tendering freight to the airlines changed almost daily for the TransExpedite team, they weathered any and all obstacles that they faced. “For a small startup company trying to grow a business it was time intensive and added additional costs,” says Keeli Jernigan. Both Keeli and Mark had worked in the industry for several years before settling here in El Paso. Keeli attended the University of Texas at Austin earning a Bachelor of
Business
Administration
degree
in
Marketing. Right after college she moved to Houston, Texas for about three years, then to San Diego, California for a few years and then back to Houston for three more years. In each of those cities she worked in the freight and transportation sector gaining valuable experience and expertise that would prove to be essential to her success in their move to El Paso. According to Keeli, Chief Executive Officer of Trans-Expedite, they made the decision to start their own business with customer service being their top priority and to “react to customers needs more quickly.” The couple chose to open their company in El Paso because of the strong manufacturing business in both Juárez and El Paso. Now approaching their thirteenth anniversary this October, Trans-Expedite has evolved into one of the most successful organizations in the freight industry across the nation. When asked what factors contribute to the success of their business, Keeli credits the success of their company to two very important factors. The first is their team of 170 employees - a group of highly talented individuals with several years of experience and bringing their collaborative “best practices” to the organization, as well as empowering the employees in the decision making process. Secondly, their continued success with longterm customer relationships and expertise www.thecitymagazineelp.com
in customer service has been an important element in maintaining the highest standard of customer satisfaction. Factors such as responding quickly to the needs of their customers and flexibility in responding to those needs have contributed to their success. This commitment to customer service is evident 27
Keeli Jernigan
May, 2014 as Mrs. Jernigan boasts that their “first four
bringing her company national accolades
certainly
customers are still with us today!”
and recognition in the 13 years of operation.
personalized service.
always
the
commitment
to
In a predominantly male-oriented business, Trans-
she has managed to remain a leader in the
Keeli Jernigan is a nationally recognized
Expedite has been certified by WEBENC-
freight industry. One of the main reasons for
business woman who has remained focused
Women’s
National
this, according to Keeli, is that she has been
on the individual she serves by always
Council, of which Keeli Jernigan serves
able to build trust and confidence between
providing them with the highest quality of
on the national board. To be certified as a
her and her clients. Sitting one on one with
service. However, like so many women,
“woman-owned business” one must have at
potential customers, she gives them the
she is also a working mom. She has two
least 51% ownership of the company. Keeli
opportunity to ask questions and get to know
young sons, 14-year-old Tate, and 11-year-
is the President and Chief Executive Officer
her and Trans-Expedite. When they leave that
old Luke. As a business owner, Keeli admits
of Trans-Expedite, while husband, Mark, is
meeting, according to Keeli, they “know that
that it has been a challenge to balance her
Vice-President and Chief Operating Officer.
I know what I’m talking about.”
role as mother with that of CEO of a major
In 2013, she was honored by the Women’s
While Trans-Expedite is recognized nationally
feel, that sense of guilt in trying to do both.
Business Council – Southwest as their
as a leader in the transportation, warehousing
She believes that women try to do everything
2013
“Women’s
and custom brokerage industry, it has also
and that we are the ones placing that undue
Star.”
The
Council
been a very prominent participant in the many
burden on ourselves. She understands that
Southwest Region (which is based in Dallas)
civic and charitable organizations and events.
she does not have to be Superwoman and
and a partner organization of WEBENC,
The Trans-Expedite family is a generous
that it is important to learn to delegate and
administers the certification for the women-
contributor with both monetary donations and
ask for help. Her biggest realization was
owned businesses. This certification offers
many volunteer hours in community events.
that “I can’t do everything, and it’s okay!”
the women opportunities to promote and
Many of those include, but are certainly not
The time she spends with Tate and Luke is
expand their businesses. It also presents
limited to the Susan G. Komen Race for the
priceless. She makes it a point to give them
many
one-on-
Cure, the Foundation for Women’s Resources,
her undivided attention and total quality time.
representatives,
The Women’s Fund of El Paso, the YWCA,
That means no phone calls, no emails, and
and educational events such as seminars,
the Women’s Business Enterprise National
no interruptions of any kind. What gives her
conferences and workshops. In addition,
Council
Business
confidence in her role as mom, is to know
it provides for links between businesses
Council – Southwest, the Junior League of
that she is “truly present, giving them my
and corporations that have strong diversity
El Paso, Inc., the Alzheimer’s Association,
undivided attention.”
initiatives in place. The diversity initiatives
the University of Texas El Paso Athletics
are important because many of these
and various youth athletic organizations
Keeli Jernigan is the epitome of determination,
companies have government contracts that
throughout the United States.
commitment and success and a remarkable
As
a
woman-owned Business
business,
Enterprise
enterprise. She shares what so many women
one
Business
Women’s
networking dialogue
Enterprise
Business
opportunities,
corporate
(WBENC),
Women’s
role model for so many women, having grown
require a certain percentage of their business be with suppliers that are either minority-
Trans-Expedite is located at 7 Founders
from a small business of only four employees
owned or women-owned business. For the
Boulevard in Butterfield Trail in El Paso, Texas.
back in 2001 to the staff of 170 and her multi-
corporations it is also a valuable marketing
The pride of the organization and one of the
million-dollar enterprise today. Her dedication
tool that shows their clients that they are as
main reasons for their continued success is
to her customers will guarantee continued
diverse as their customers. Keeli Jernigan
the flexibility that they offer their customers,
success for years to come!
is more that just a brilliant business owner,
impeccable
www.thecitymagazineelp.com
customer
satisfaction,
and
29
November, 2013
30
www.thecitymagazineelp.com
November, 2013
Obstetrics and Gynecology Services In addition to well woman examinations and routine care, other OB-GYN services include: • • • •
Evaluation and treatment of pelvic pain Evaluation and treatment of vulvar pain Acupuncture treatment of pain Symptom control and disease prevention during perimenopause and menopause • Osteoporosis screening (DXA scans) • Pediatric and adolescent gynecology • Prenatal care
• Sexually transmitted infections and treatment • Preinvasive cancer screening and treatment • Family planning (IUD, Nexplanon®) • Gynecologic issues associated with aging • In office treatment of abnormal bleeding • In office painless sterilization • Vaginal birth after cesarean section
Our physicians perform gynecologic surgery using both laparoscopy, hysteroscopy, robotic and open procedures to address: • Abnormal uterine bleeding
• Endometriosis
• Pelvic masses
(915 ) 215-5000
www.texastechphysicians.com/elpaso 31
Working her way to the Top
May, 2014
GECU’s President and CEO
Crystal Long A | By: MICHAEL C. GRAHAM photography by: TOMMIE MORELOS |
s part of our look at the
Crystal is a shining example of combining
women
leaders
work, education, professional development
in our community, I had the
and a personal life all at the same time. As she
honor of sitting down and
was working her way up the organizational
having a brief conversation
ladder at GECU, gaining experience that she
with
the
described as “invaluable” in allowing her to
business
Crystal
Long,
of
understand many department’s roles first
largest
hand, she was also able to pursue continued
independent and locally owned financial
education and help raise a family. On the
services organization. I had the pleasure of
educational front, she continues to pursue
meeting Crystal several years ago, and my
additional programs and expertise, and is
initial impression then was confirmed when
just about to complete an Executive MBA
we had the chance to visit in her office at
program at UTEP. As Crystal remarked to me,
GECU’s main operations and headquarters
“The Executive MBA program has been an
building on Airway Boulevard: she is as
incredible experience. We just returned from
hardworking and dedicated of an executive
a trip to Hong Kong as part of the completion
as you are likely to ever meet.
of the program, and I have to applaud UTEP
President GECU,
El
and
CEO
Paso’s
for how impressive that program has been.” Crystal was born in Lubbock, Texas, but came to El Paso as a child, when her father was
One of the areas I asked Crystal about
transferred here, and Crystal told me that she
was the remarkable growth that GECU has
has long considered El Paso her home. Her
experienced, particularly over the last 20
family lived in the northeast part of El Paso,
years or so, and the challenges that growth
and she is a proud graduate of Andress High
presented. “I think that this building, our
School. She began her career with GECU a
operations and headquarters center, is a
little over three decades ago as a file clerk,
great example of meeting those challenges.
at the suggestion of her then future mother-
We were fractured and disjointed in some of
in-law, who had worked at GECU in the
our main service and administrative areas,
1960s and thought that Crystal would enjoy
and this building allowed us to consolidate
it. In what is certainly a good omen for any
and centralize many key functions.” As we
relationship Crystal took her advice, and the
talked, Crystal shared with me that the main
rest is history. I think it is safe to say that her
location now houses administration, senior
mother-in-law knew what she was saying
management, compliance, the call center,
when she told Crystal she would enjoy it.
and several other key areas. www.thecitymagazineelp.com
May, 2014
www.thecitymagazineelp.com
33
May, 2014
Aside from the changes that were required
community charter, membership is open to
as a result of that growth, we also discussed
anyone who works, lives, or worships in El
the reasons that GECU was able to enjoy
Paso. Those changes greatly increased the
such tremendous success. Today, GECU is
potential pool of membership. However, as
the largest independent and locally owned
Crystal pointed out, simply having a larger
financial services organization in El Paso, and
membership pool would not necessarily
a very large institution by any measure, with
result in such high levels of sustained
over 300,000 members. From a practical
growth year after year. “I think people really
standpoint, one of those factors was the
like the way we put their interests first,
membership change that allowed many
and really strive to serve our members’
more El Pasoans to become members.
needs. Our philosophy is people helping
When it was founded in 1932, as Federal
people.” That philosophy has helped GECU
Employees Credit Union, membership was
with a solid word of mouth campaign, as
limited to federal civil service employees.
members would tell their family members
Family members of those employees were
and friends, and more of them would want
added later, and then in 1997, membership
to become members.
was changed to being tied to location rather than status, and was opened to virtually
As this is our Women in Business issue, with
anyone living or working in El Paso County,
a focus on women leaders and executives
and now reaches into small parts of New
in our community, we also discussed how
Mexico. As Crystal describes their current
women have made increasing strides in all
34
www.thecitymagazineelp.com
May, 2014 areas of community leadership, including leading GECU. “I am proud to be the second female CEO at GECU, succeeding Harriet May. She was a fantastic mentor to me and leader for the credit union. We have always provided equal opportunity for all of our members to grow, develop and progress.” Crystal also mentioned that GECU is continuing to work on increasing the loan numbers within its mortgage department, something that will necessarily involve dealing with women and men, as there is a healthy mix of families obtaining loans for new purchases of homes, as well as refinancing opportunities. “As a credit union, our focus is on the individual consumer, not necessarily the commercial client.” That difference is perhaps one of the biggest reasons that credit union membership numbers are growing all across the country, and in El Paso. Nationally, according to one industry report, credit unions gained over 2.5 million new members in 2013, a trend that will most likely continue in the near future. “We have a different business model than banks. I have nothing against banks, it is simply a different way of doing business, with a different focus.” Because of their business structure, credit unions are often more able to be flexible with consumers in order to help accommodate unforeseen and unfortunate circumstances. A good example of this flexible, members first model is the new modular, smaller distribution methods that GECU is deploying into the community. “Members are not working solely nine to five any longer. They want greater access to our service team, and to their money, during more unconventional hours, as well as many different ways of accessing their accounts and services.” To this end, GECU is building out newer, smaller, neighborhood focused branches that are open 8 a.m. to 8 p.m., and have a service member, as well as kiosks and computer based access for members. Several years ago they also established their relationship with Members Trust, which allows them to have a locally based trust company and deal with trust issues locally. All of these initiatives are examples of GECU’s continued philosophy of putting their member’s issues first. In her free time, which is admittedly not a tremendous amount, Crystal shared with me that she is passionate about her family, which in addition to her husband includes two children that live here in El Paso, a daughter who is a nurse, and a son who is about to become a mechanical engineer; and that they enjoy traveling whenever possible. “We have a short list of places that we would like to see, and when we can, try to use some time each year to take a trip as a family to see one of those places. The world is an amazing place and we love seeing as much of it as we can.” However, as Crystal freely admits, she is a bit of a workaholic, and is focused on continuing GECU’s growth and development as effectively as possible. “I am passionate and committed about GECU, and excited to be in this position as we move forward. It is an honor.”
www.thecitymagazineelp.com
5/31/2014.
35
a GLORIOUS May, 2014
36
www.thecitymagazineelp.com
ROAD May, 2014
to
SUCCESS | By: ERIKA LOPEZ photography by: ROBERT CORRAL |
I
n a business world dominated by men,
ethic and dedication were not limited to her
her home. But, as she sought out help from
one woman soared to the top and
childhood days selling potholders. Eager to
contractors to complete the project in six
forever influenced the city of El Paso.
work, she immersed into several jobs around
weeks, men in the industry ridiculed her for
Patricia Holland-Branch, CEO/owner of
El Paso, a few which included lifeguarding for
her expectations to complete the project in
Facilities Connection Inc. paved the way for
a neighborhood pool, working for local banks,
such a short timeframe. It was her ambitious
business women to achieve equal success
and even at the University of Texas El Paso
nature and as a self-proclaimed “doer” she
with one goal in mind, to eliminate the
working numerous part-time jobs to help
created a team of subcontractors to begin
struggles that she once faced.
pay for her tuition. While attending UTEP,
the project. “I’ve never been able to just
Holland-Branch met her former husband,
know one part of something, whatever it is, I
Patricia “Patty” Holland-Branch was born
Mike Holland, who enlisted into the Army
do. I’m a doer,” said Holland-Branch.
to a Russian father and a Mexican mother
after receiving his degree in civil engineering
in Chihuahua, Mexico where her innate
from UTEP and soon the couple traveled to
It was after she completed the projected
sense of design and creativity flourished at
Germany, where Holland rapidly established
in eight weeks, with the team she had
a young age. It was at 8-years old that her
himself as a contractor. It was there after that
hand selected herself, that she became an
entrepreneurial instinct and benevolent spirit
Mike and Patricia Holland (-Branch) joined
admiration in the industry and those who
enabled her to intricately design potholders
forces, each providing their own unique
once laughed her out of their offices were
to sell to neighbors. “I remember my mother
talent and knowledge. It was her artistic flair
now praising her work. Innately, Holland-
expressing some kind of financial need. I
that led her to subcontract many projects in
Branch took the next step in her career and
went to the little local five and dime store
Germany. From Germany, the couple then
founded Facilities Connection Inc., formerly
and with my allowance I bought a weaving
relocated to Anchorage, Alaska where they
known as PZH Contract Design Inc. in 1987,
machine
expanded their family of five children.
as a commercial interior design company
that
made
potholders,”
said
throughout the El Paso, Cd. Juarez, and
Holland-Branch. With dedication and a sense of business ethics instilled at a young age,
Now having evolved a background in
Mexico region. In a time when women faced
she invested in tools and supplies for her
contracting, Holland-Branch’s keenness to
difficult challenges as business owners,
intricate potholder designs.
expand her knowledge grew immensely,
Holland-Branch also faced the challenge of
prompting her to read design and remodeling
starting a business as a single mother and
As a first grader, Holland-Branch became an
books. In the early 80s, Holland-Branch
divorcee. “It was very difficult as a female
El Pasoan, where she later graduated from
returned to El Paso to purchase property in
to start your own business, especially if you
Austin High School. But, her strong work
the Upper Valley and begin construction on
were a divorcee, because there was no credit
www.thecitymagazineelp.com
37
Pat t y H o l l a n d - B r a n c h
May, 2014
EL PASO TIMES OFFICES - 2013- El Paso, Texas
WEAVER
scott weaver photography
available to you,” she recalls. “As I went
have ever had in the history of the company,”
very proud of what they represent and that
through the steps of growing a business, I
said
is why I named our value statement about
realized I needed to do everything I could to
is critical for a company like Facilities
teamwork, ‘Glory Road.’”
make sure other women didn’t have to go
Connection Inc. and to help them achieve
through the same painful steps.”
success as a team, they have adapted value
Although, Patricia Holland-Branch credits her
statements, one of which states, “do the
team of superior professionals, it is her team
Celebrating more than 20 years in business,
right thing when no one is looking.” But,
who values her work ethic, compassion, and
Patricia Holland-Branch has exuded the
with a core value statement leading back
success. Visiting with the team members
definition of a true trailblazer, a community
to the roots of El Paso, Holland-Branch and
who help execute the day-to-day functions
leader, and a philanthropist for the city of El
her dynamic team follow “Glory Road.”
needed for the business to flourish, it is
Paso. But, in true modesty, Holland-Branch
“Glory Road, as we all know, represents the
highly recognized that each member values
does not credit her success to her own
basketball team that encountered so many
teamwork and the personal relationships
attributes, but rather to her team, who has
difficulties because of their race, but they
that have been developed through the years.
helped build the foundation for a thriving
never let that be a barrier, and neither did
“We’re a great team, a small team, but we
business
family-working
our coach, “Bear” (Haskins),” said Holland-
do a lot of volume and I think it is because we
relationship. “We have the best team that we
Branch and continued, “I have always been
work so closely together, that we are able to
38
and
a
strong
Holland-Branch
proudly.
Teamwork
www.thecitymagazineelp.com
Pat t y H o l l a n d - B r a n c h
May, 2014
“Patty is an exceptional manager. She is an inspiration to women.” – Nancy Kachel, Accounting Manager
“Patty has provided us all with this great opportunity. We have all the support to get our job done.” – Cornelia petraitis, project coordinator
accomplish a lot,” said Andrea Ross, Design
working with those who are underserved--
everyone an appreciation of how fortunate
Manager;
Designer;
whether a church, non-profit or individuals.
we are as individuals to have paying jobs
Lead Accredited Professional. “Patty is
We do have the opportunity to get our
and a nice place to work, when there are
an icon in the community. She is a great
hands on a lot of furniture, and in some
people in El Paso who work in underworking
businesswoman and philanthropist. She is
cases buildings need to liquidate what they
environments, but they do it out of love. So
highly regarded amongst the community and
have and they always come to us and say,
to them, their working environment isn’t
her staff.”
‘what should we do with our old furniture?’
important and these are the people we seek
One of the very first things that I always
to help,” said Holland-Branch.
Registered
Interior
If it is one thing that Holland-Branch is
propose is, ‘can we help you find someone
recognized for it is her philanthropic work, not
to donate it to?’” said Holland-Branch. But,
In the last few years, Facilities Connection
only for the city of El Paso, but our sister city
as a strong believer that a company shouldn’t
has committed to a new business model,
Juarez. “Community is a very strong aspect
just reach out to the community through
Traction, an entrepreneurial operating system,
of our business, we truly believe that we
donations, Holland-Branch encourages her
which focuses on aspects such as, vision,
have social, fiscal, and ethical commitment
team to follow suit and volunteer a Saturday
data, prioritization, and setting rocks as
to supporting our community and that is
to help underserved businesses. “This gives
goals to achieve on a quarterly basis. This
www.thecitymagazineelp.com
39
Pat t y H o l l a n d - B r a n c h
May, 2014
JDW INSURANCE - 2009 El Paso, Texas
WEAVER
scott weaver photography
FacilitiesConnection
Taking the Complexity out of Interiors for Over 20 Years
has ultimately lead the company to receive
numerous, regional, professional, and civic
As a community leader representing the
countless annual sales awards from their
awards throughout her career. In 1993 she
city of El Paso, Holland-Branch believes it
manufacturers such as Haworth’s most
was the recipient of the YWCA Reach Award
is essential to contribute to both the local
prestigious award, President’s Club, awarded
for Entrepreneurship and the Rio Grande
and statewide-wide economic development
in 2008 and 2010 for sales achievement,
Purchasing Council 1993 Woman-Owned
initiatives. As a Governor Bush appointee,
quality and best practices. As one of the
Business of the Year. She was the SBA
she served a 4-year term on the Governing
region’s fastest growing companies, Facilities
1994 Minority Women-Owned Business
Board of the Texas Department of Economic
Connection was recognized by the Hispanic
Advocate of the Year followed by an award
Development. She was the chairman of the
Chamber of Commerce with the 2008 Future
in 1995 from The El Paso Times as one of “El
Texas Border Trade Committee and Vice
15 Award. In 2009 she received an award
Paso’s Most Influential Women.” In 2011,
Chairman of the Small Business Advisory
from the Hispanic Chamber of Commerce and
Holland-Branch was inducted into the Junior
Committee. The BTC traveled throughout the
the SBA as the Service Company of the Year.
Achievement Business Hall of Fame, and in
Texas Mexico border communities identifying
2013 she was nominated as one of El Paso
needs unique to border communities and
Inc.’s Women of Impact.
developed formal sister city relationships
Due
to
her
profound
success
and
commitment Holland-Branch has received 40
with each major Mexican border cities. www.thecitymagazineelp.com
May, 2014
Pat t y H o l l a n d - B r a n c h
Extraordinary Care You Deserve Breast Cancer Facts A new breast cancer is diagnosed every 2.5 minutes Over two million breast cancer survivors are alive in the U.S. today Approximately 1,500 male breast cancer cases will be diagnosed this year, and 400 men will die from the disease
Currently, Holland-Branch is completing a
resides with her husband, Dave Branch,
six-year term as a director for the El Paso
both of whom are the proud parents of five
Regional Economic Development Corporation
children and ten grandchildren. Four of their
(REDCO). She serves as Secretary of the
five children own their own companies and
Board and is on the Executive Committee
are successful entrepreneurs. One son is a
and she is in her twelfth year as a Director for
medical doctor specializing in Family Practice.
We are committed to bringing our patients and their doctors the extraordinary care they deserve, both personal and technological. We take great pride in each and every exam we do.
the El Paso Electric Company. Patricia
Holland-Branch
has
instilled
in
For the past five years Holland-Branch
her company the values, leadership, and
has been active on the Hispanic Chamber
dedication that El Paso epitomizes. But,
Foundation as Chairman of the Step Up Aim
it is not without her compassion for the
High committee. Through the dedicated
community, immense passion for her work,
work of this committee as well as the entire
profound knowledge, and of course, a
board of directors, thousands of dollars for
tremendously professional and diligent team
scholarships are offered each spring to local
known as family, that Facilities Connection
students in need of financial assistance to
Inc. would not have strived.
2930 North Stanton El Paso, TX 79902
(915) 545-CARE (2273)
attend college. Recently, Holland-Branch was inducted as the newest member of the Gayle
It is not without exemplary women such as,
Greve Hunt School of Nursing, Advisory
Patricia Holland-Branch that women have a
Board of Directors.
foundation to plant the seed to their dreams of becoming business owners. It is because
Holland-Branch continues to make a positive
of her empowerment that women can strive
impact on El Paso where she currently
for success in a once male-dominated field.
www.thecitymagazineelp.com
41
MISS E L PA S O T X 2 01 4
MISS E L PA S O TEEN T X 2 01 4
JUNE 20-21 • UTEP MAGOFFIN AUDITORIUM
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Ella Blu
el paso magazine
W MEN IN BUSINESS P R O F I L E S
Jennifer Cedillo MARKETING MANAGER
Jennifer Cedillo is definitely a girl on the go.
“Every one of us at the dealership is there
Cell phone in one hand, coffee in the other, and
to give the customer 100% satisfaction.
laptop open, is generally how you can find her
Customer service is not a department, it
any day of the week. From writing television
is everyone’s job.” At events, or even just
and radio scripts, sending out press releases,
walking around the dealership, Jennifer is
coordinating
“We all have equal opportunity to learn, train, and to be promoted. Advancement at our dealerships is limitless.”
product
always introducing herself to her customers
launches, or attending various charity and social
and making friends with them. “Whenever I
functions, Jennifer is 24/7 as the marketing
see customers, I like greeting them by name.
organization that hold high level positions.
manager for Shamaley Ford, Shamaley Buick
If I see a man or woman in uniform, I always
More women should look into this industry.”
GMC, and BMW-MINI of El Paso.
thank them for their service. My father was
sales
events
and
in the Army, and that’s what brought us to
When asked how one can advance in the
A proud New Mexico State Aggie, Jennifer
El Paso. I’m proud that all three dealerships
automotive industry Jennifer cites attitude
worked in advertising sales for general market
support our troops. We make every effort to
at the top of the list. “Attitude is everything.
and Spanish language television as well as
let them know they are special and we are
Nothing can stop a person with the right
newspaper print, prior to getting started in the
proud of them”.
attitude, and nothing can help someone with the wrong attitude. When you have a
automotive industry. A mentor in media told her about an opportunity to work in marketing
Jennifer says that while there aren’t many
great attitude, it’s infectious. Have the right
at the dealership and she took the leap.
women in the automotive industry, she
attitude and the right opportunities will come
Four years later, Jennifer went from selling
doesn’t feel limited at all. “We all have
to you. That’s what happened for me and
advertising to car dealers to buying for them.
equal opportunity to learn, train, and to be
that’s what got me where I am today.”
While each dealership Jennifer represents a
promoted. Advancement at our dealerships
different make, the overall goal is the same.
is limitless. We have several women in our
44 | SPECIAL ADVERTISING
Terry Montes BMW MINI OF EL PASO
“I’ve learned that it’s not enough to want something, you have to be prepared to receive it.” Terry Montes has worked in the automobile
specialized auto repair, genuine parts and expert
motivation, and in turn, I encourage others to
industry since she was 17 years old.
service. They pride themselves on carrying
be courageous.”
Beginning as a secretary for her brother,
everything you and your family may need to
Larry Montes at Mission Chevrolet, she
transform your daily drive into a joy ride.
On top of quality customer service Terry prides herself on being a great team builder.
quickly fell in love with the business of cars. In no time at all, she even began receiving
“I’ve learned that it’s not enough to want
“As a woman, I’m a natural at building teams,”
the “Top Sales Person” award month after
something, you have to be prepared to
explained Terry. “I’ve always believed that
month, and soon after was quickly promoted
receive it,” said Terry. “Early in my life, my
good teamwork leads to success. Everyone
to Special Finance Manager.
mother instilled in me that I could do or be
who works with me knows how each
anything I wanted. My father taught me that
individual in the company contributes to the
Fourteen years later, Terry is still in the
you can’t beat a person who never gives up.
bigger picture, which makes our business
automobile industry, working as the General
Whenever I have a fear of making a change,
even more successful. I make it my priority
Sales Manager of BMW and Mini of El Paso.
I remind myself that life is short and I have to
to take the time to consult and listen to all my
Together she and her team offer the best in
do what I love. This kind of thinking fuels my
employees and customers.”
BMW of El Paso | 6318 Montana Ave. | El Paso, Texas 79925 | (915) 778-9381 | bmwofelpaso.com By: MEAGAN KINLEY photographed by: STEVE GARDUNO
SPECIAL ADVERTISING | 45
Shamaley Ford “In a male prominent industry, it’s great to have the support and motivation from upper management and our corporation to empower women to take up active roles within the automotive industry. That’s one thing I have high respect for, not limiting your employees to truly succeed.” – REYNA GUTIERREZ BUSINESS DEVELOPMENT MANAGER
46 | SPECIAL ADVERTISING
On the corner of I-10 and Lee Trevino, the
dealership for sales and in customer service
both within the dealership and within the
women of Shamaley Ford are as giving to the
with a long list of veteran employees who
organization.
community as they are to their customers.
have been with the store for many years. “In a male prominent industry, it’s great
From roles as general sales manager, to finance director, human resources to
“There has been many changes within
to have the support and motivation from
business
to
our industry, it is blessing to have had the
upper management and our corporation to
warranty administrator, there are several
opportunity to be part of some of those
empower women to take up active roles
women who represent the dealership in
changes and to work for a company that
within the automotive industry. That’s one
senior level positions. Several of the staff
believes in their employees and their
thing I have high respect for, not limiting
members work on weekends to coordinate
success,” says Christina Velasco, an 18 year
your employees to truly succeed.” Reyna
parades and events, and are always on hand
veteran who holds the position of senior
Gutierrez --- Business Development Manager.
to help with the annual Susan G. Komen
human resources coordinator and executive
Race for the Cure.
assistant for Shamaley Ford.
Shamaley Ford sells cars, trucks, and SUVs,
The support staff, working in accounting,
transparency. Blanca Serna, Service Cashier,
as well as offers a service maintenance
cashiering, finance, and customer service all
“We are all friends, and I truly enjoy coming
department and a collision center. They serve
help make Shamaley Ford a top dealership
to work every day. Everyone is so friendly,
customers from all over El Paso, Las Cruces,
for cars, trucks, collision, and service. Many
and I wouldn’t want to work anywhere else.”
and beyond, and have remained a top
have been promoted and have advanced
development,
comptroller
Shamaley Ford and its employees believe in teamwork, integrity, professionalism, and
Shamaley Ford | 11301 Gateway Blvd W. | El Paso, TX 79936 | (915) 591-8600 | www.shamaleyford.com Photographed by: STEVE GARDUNO
SPECIAL ADVERTISING | 47
48 | SPECIAL ADVERTISING
“Our team is committed to facilitating and expediting real estate transactions and maximizing savings and profits for our clients.” In and amongst the vast and growing city of El Paso is a home market,
Entering the real estate industry as a single mother at the age of 22
which unlike those in other markets has experienced life, despite the
years old, Daisy had a very strategic goal in mind. “I wanted to build
setbacks in both national and global economies. When other markets
a business to ensure financial freedom for my daughter and myself,”
tragically crashed and hit rock bottom, El Paso’s merely lulled; when
Daisy shared. “I remember running through my favorite neighborhoods
others struggled to rebound, El Paso picked up right where it left off
and envisioning how well I’d market homes I saw that were for sale,
and simply gained momentum placing it in a top spot of the “United
while admiring well-known top producers at that time.”
States’ fastest growing cities” list. Needless to say, El Paso has been fortunate and competitive despite each impediment along the way.
Daisy’s dreams have manifested into realizations and those realizations have manifested into an accumulation of savings for her clients.
However, it must be assumed that as the nature of the market’s
“This year, HomeGirl has generated $77,500 in combined savings
competitiveness increases, so should the level of ingenuity and
and over-average profits for buyers and sellers due to marketing and
creativity of El Paso’s Realtors. Breaking the mold and setting new
negotiation,” Daisy explained. “The goal is to finish the year with
precedents, Daisy Aguirre, licensed Realtor with Keller Williams, has
$200,000 extra dollars for my clients. I feel that is so powerful. In five
begun “painting El Paso pink” with her innovative “HomeGirl” brand.
years time, I’d love to see HomeGirl control 10% of El Paso’s Market Share. These are huge goals.”
“Our team is committed to facilitating and expediting real estate transactions and maximizing savings and profits for our clients,”
Paving a way for herself in an industry that is both ever changing
explained Daisy. “I simply love what I do. Real Estate is my art and
and fierce, Daisy ambitiously tackles real estate with a fervor
HomeGirl embodies the love, representation and fiduciary duty to each
and excitement, which is both infectious and inspiring. “Passion,
and every client. Caring for clients translates into numbers for them, in
knowledge, creativity and innovation is what drives me towards
savings and maximum profits in a real estate transaction. I bring clarity
providing my clients with the best possible experience. The only
to my clients on the way the market works and assist them on how to
possible way to see this come to life is to create all of this from my
maximize their profit when selling their investment. With that, I spare
heart. Learning personal development, consistency, and self discipline
no expense on my own education, top-notch marketing & creative
is what has taught me to master my art and design my profession to
networking. I’m so proud of the brand. I handpick each detail.”
its strongest potential as a solid foundation that won’t break under economic struggles.”
Daisy Aguirre, Realtor | Keller Williams Realty | (915) 820-9504 | elphomegirl@gmail.com | www.facebook.com/daisy.aguirre.39
By: CANDACE VASQUEZ photographed by: ROBERT CORRAL
SPECIAL ADVERTISING | 49
“It’s my goal that when clients walk out of my office that they have a smile on their face and feel at ease.”
ST
I
VE
BE
– IDA GOMEZ
LU X U R Y A U TO M
OT
Ida Gomez Karla Rimada 50 | SPECIAL ADVERTISING
“I love interacting with my clients and seeing the excitement that they have when they get into their Mercedes for the first time.” – KARLA RIMADA
Ida Gomez
Karla Rimada
You’ve stepped onto the Mercedes Benz of El Paso showroom floor,
Epitomizing the very idea of luxury and providing tangibility to the
test driven a few of their many beautifully designed and well-equipped
level of one’s deserved success, Mercedes Benz has been a leading
models, fallen in love with “the one”, and enthusiastically grab the
name in German auto manufacturing since 1926. Known throughout
keys and head out onto the open road…it’s just you, your beautiful
the automobile industry for their engineering ingenuity and the sleek
new luxury car and the wind in your hair. Well, almost. While the
sophistication which is prevalent throughout their fleet, Mercedes
majority of your visit at Mercedes Benz of El Paso will be composed
Benz has paved a road which has lead them to their place as a leading
of pleasure, it should be said that there will be a small margin for
franchise amongst a vast array of luxury brand competitors.
business that will need to be accounted for as well. Fortunately, the process is made simple by the capable and knowledgeable finance
Providing assistance to those who are ready for change, Karla Rimada,
staff who work hand-in-hand with you to ensure that the best and
Sales Consultant at Mercedes Benz of El Paso, began her career
most effective financing options are found and set in place.
with the dealership six years ago when she was employed as their receptionist. Realizing her own level of success and potential, Karla has
Heading the finance department at Mercedes Benz of El Paso is Ida
climbed the ranks and is now one of the dealership’s youngest sales
Gomez, Finance Manager for the dealership. A self-proclaimed car
consultants and has consistently raised the bar as their top salesperson.
lover and native El Pasoan, Ida has worked with the Hoy Fox family
“Mercedes Benz is a great franchise to work with,” shared Rimada. “I
of dealerships since 2000 and with the Mercedes Benz franchise for
love everything that it represents. My favorite part about my job is that
the past three and a half years. And whether it’s explaining the various
I love interacting with my clients and seeing the excitement that they
service packages available or finding the appropriate financing option,
have when they get into their Mercedes for the first time.”
Ida ensures that each client will be treated with integrity. “It’s my goal that when clients walk out of my office that they have a smile on their
Known for their innovative safety features, Mercedes Benz takes
face and feel at ease” shared Gomez. “We strive to go the extra mile
comfort and luxury to new heights. “The car sells itself,” explained
for all of our clients and exceed their expectations.”
Rimada. “All of the safety features we offer are standard on a Mercedes -- unlike with other brands where the safety features are add-ons and are sold to you at an extra cost. Mercedes Benz definitely lives up to their slogan of ‘The best or nothing’.”
Mercedes Benz of El Paso | 1122 Airway Blvd | El Paso, TX 79925 | (915) 778-5341 | www.hoyfoxmercedesbenz.com
By: CANDACE VASQUEZ photographed by: TY NAVARRETTE
SPECIAL ADVERTISING | 51
Danii Sedillo REALTOR, ABR, CRS, , SFR, GRI KELLER WILLIAMS REALTY EL PASO
Danni Sedillo is invested in her client’s life, whether it’s a new home for a first time home buyer, heroes in uniform, or a retirement home, she makes sure her clients are settled in from every aspect. After moving to El Paso eight years ago,
short sales and foreclosure, works with
Technicalities aside, Sedillo is invested in her
Danii Sedillo has transformed her passion for
investors as part of her business and is
client’s life, whether it’s a new home for a
architectural design and her love of people
also specialized in new home construction
first time home buyer, heroes in uniform,
into a successful career. Sedillo provides
and currently represents two builders in El
or a retirement home, she makes sure her
El Pasoans with a personable approach for
Paso. Sedillo is a well-rounded REALTOR
clients are settled in from every aspect, and
finding the perfect home through integrity
who can help with any real estate related
is available seven days a week for any of her
and trust. Really understanding the ins and
needs and questions and has an extensive
clients’ needs.
outs of business, Sedillo has taken a more
background and expertise in the housing
empathetic route to connect with her clients,
arena. Her connection to trustworthy and
listening to their needs, hopes and dreams.
dependent home contractors, lenders and title companies has created an easy flowing
Danii
Sedillo
began
her
real
estate
process for everyone involved.
career in residential resale, is certified in Danii Sedillo | 6006 N Mesa Ste 110 | (915) 929-2755 | daniisedillo@yahoo.com | www.daniisedillo.com 52 | SPECIAL ADVERTISING
By: LAURA WERTHMANN photographed by: ROBERT CORRAL
Monica Salaiz Narvaez STRATEGIC WEALTH ADVISORS
“For me, it’s about doing the right thing and being able to meet so many nice people. It’s about getting a sense of how important it is to preserve the wealth you do have and grow wealth for the future.” In the financial realm, the only trend that can
Monica Salaiz Narvaez CFP®, CLTC, a Strategic
Driven by the belief that “creativity is
be predicted is the expectation and knowledge
Wealth
and
necessary in preparing a unique plan for each
that markets will undoubtedly experience their
Financial Planner, has been in the Financial
family and person,” Narvaez is constantly
fair share of cyclical highs and lows, that a good
Advising field for 25 years. A graduate of
inspired and energized by the relationships
bull market will inevitably be followed by a bear
Loretto Academy and UTEP, Monica believes
she’s built with her clients. “For me, it’s about
market and that periods of growth and recession
that “all work is inherently about making a
doing the right thing and being able to meet so
will assuredly arise various times throughout our
difference.” “After graduating, I went to work
many nice people. It’s about getting a sense of
lifetime. Armed with this awareness, the Financial
for a lending company,” shared Narvaez. “I
how important it is to preserve the wealth you
Planners at Strategic Wealth Advisors have
later came to realize that I wanted to be on
do have and try to grow wealth for the future.
been tasked with disarming the complexities of
the side of helping save rather than borrow. It
It is about understanding that risk and reward
the market for their clients in order to achieve
was at that point that I sought out a career in
are important considerations and helping you
financial preservation, growth and legacy.
Financial Advising.”
realize something that’s too good to be true.”
Advisors
Founding
Partner
Securities offered through Investors Capital Corporation, Member FINRA/SIPC Advisory Services, if applicable, offered through Investors Capital Advisory (800) 949-1422
Strategic Wealth Advisors | Terrace Gardens Office Park | 600 Sunland Park, Building One, Ste 100 | (915) 532-8885 | www.sw-advisors.com By: CANDACE VASQUEZ photographed by: ROBERT CORRAL
SPECIAL ADVERTISING | 53
Sandra Terrazas, PT, MBA
SPECTRUM FITNESS AND SPECTRUM THERAPY CONSULTANTS “Opening Spectrum Fitness is truly a dream come true for me, I’m doing this to provide a service that will change and transform lives.” Sandra Terrazas, physical therapist and owner
monthly. We have created an environment of
as consultants,” who truly care about you
of Spectrum Therapy Consultants, will be
medical expertise where men and women of
and your fitness needs. “Our mission is to
opening El Paso’s newest gym, Spectrum
all ages can come, set attainable goals with a
incorporate health, wellness and fitness
Fitness in late May, as well as their 3rd physical
qualified personal trainer, and get the results
together in an injury-safe environment to
therapy office in Central El Paso. Her new and
they deserve,” said Terrazas.
enable true lifestyle change” said Terrazas.
wellness-fitness will strive for preventative
On top of the individualized personal training
Spectrum Fitness
health rather than reactive health, which will
sessions Spectrum will also offer exciting
Central – 1700 Cliff, B-101 | (915) 881-7303
serve as an investment in one’s health.
athletic camps this summer to get you and
innovative business model of rehabilitation-
your family ready for any challenge that
Spectrum Therapy Consultants
“Today people have their own struggles when
comes your way—from Law Enforcement
it comes to fitness. It is intimidating to enroll in
Camps designed to prepare professionals for
a gym and when there’s a lack of direction on
the most grueling PT and work-related tests,
how to use the equipment it ultimately leads
to Women-Only Boot Camps, as well as Prep
to failure to exercise as they aren’t getting the
Camps for kids to keep them in top shape for
outcomes they desire. At Spectrum Fitness, a
the coming fall sports season.
Central – 1700 Cliff, A-101
In addition vitals, weight, body fat composition,
Altogether Spectrum Fitness “will house
www.spectrumfitness.org
and body mass index will be monitored
trained professionals with physical therapists
www.spectrumtherapyconsultants.com
West – 7430 Remcon, Bldg. A (915) 231-2285 Northeast – 9870 Gateway North, Ste. B-6 (915) 313-4510
pre-health and nutrition screening will be done.
54 | SPECIAL ADVERTISING
By: MEAGAN KINELY photographed by: ROBERT CORRAL
WestStar Bank At WestStar Bank, the driving philosophy
greatest sense of accomplishment comes from
“It’s a privilege to assist my clients and
of the Wealth Management Department
not simply meeting my client’s goals, but in
their families in navigating difficult financial
is one of teamwork. With specialists in all
knowing we made a positive difference in their
decisions, especially during times when they
wealth management disciplines, the locally-
lives,” shares Colleen.
are most vulnerable,” says Tamara.
headquartered department leverages their advantages to employ a holistic, team
For the department’s business clientele,
Colleen Marusich
approach with their clients. This methodology
commercial
Senior Vice President, Client Advisor,
affords clients a family-like relationship with
Elsa Stoerner take the reins in developing
CExP™, CTFA
staff specializing in the areas most relevant
customized lending solutions. “We facilitate
Wealth Management Division
to their situation.
a key wealth management component
lenders
Arlene
Carroll
and
by providing clients the liquidity to make
Tamara Gladkowski
Integral forces in this approach are Colleen
quick decisions and seize opportunities as
Senior Vice President, Senior Trust Officer
Marusich,
Arlene
they become available,” explains Arlene.
Wealth Management Division
Carroll and Elsa Stoerner. With roughly 100
Additionally, “By utilizing our personalized
years of combined experience, they bring
approach to determine a client’s needs, we
Arlene Carroll
their specialized knowledge to identify and
can form a strategic vision that best delivers
Senior Vice President
address the complex financial needs of
the most appropriate solution,” adds Elsa.
Commercial Lending
Tamara
Gladkowski,
individual and business clients. As a fiduciary specialist, Tamara Gladkowski is
Elsa Stoerner
As a highly regarded wealth management
known for her professionalism and devotion
Vice President
professional, Colleen Marusich takes her role as
to delivering an exceptional client experience.
Commercial Lending
client advisor personally. Specializing in life event
Specializing in trust and estate administration,
transitions and business succession planning,
she works with her clients to implement
she strives to exceed her clients’ expectations
effective estate planning strategies to manage
of what a financial advisor can do for them. “My
their assets now and for future generations.
By: RUTH GIFFORD photographed by: ROBERT CORRAL
SPECIAL ADVERTISING | 55
Mariel Galbiati FIG HOME
“Everyone has their own style and I really take that into consideration when looking for products. I look for different patterns, textures, and design, but most importantly quality.” An idea for a retail business that was planted
style and I really take that into consideration
artists, designers, and authors. Galbiati’s goal
and nurtured for quite some time, blossomed
when looking for products. I look for different
is to provide her customers with great design
into a gift and home décor shop located
patterns, textures, and design, but most
and affordability and where creative aficionados
in Kern place. Mariel Galbiati envisioned a
importantly quality.” Galbiati travels to home
or those curious about new ways to design a
different shopping concept for El Paso and
décor and accessory markets around the US
home, can have a place to shop.
with an amazing eye for design, the owner
to hand select every piece inside Fig Home. Fig
of Fig Home, describes it as, “a place where
Home
will
celebrate
its
one-year
one will find something they didn’t know
With compelling support from her family and
anniversary this May with the addition of
they were looking for and become inspired
friends, Galbiati says Fig Home has gotten much
new lines and products. Galbiati describes
to do something totally different.” There
esteem from its welcoming neighbors and has
her journey as a learning process, putting
are exquisite accessories and quality home
quickly won over Fig Home regulars with her
herself and her ideas into creating something
adornments such as rugs, frames, candles,
hand-picked home articles. Fig Home also hosts
beautifully unique.
coasters, vases, coffee tables, books and
and collaborates on various events that help
more. Galbiati stated, “Everyone has their own
build the community and promote local El Paso
Fig Home | 2609B N. Stanton St. 79902 | (915) 532-3278 | fighome13@gmail.com | www.instagram.com/FigHome 56 | SPECIAL ADVERTISING
By: LAURA WERTHMANN photographed by: ROBERT CORRAL
Maria Zampini, MBA, Chief Operating Officer UNIVERSITY MEDICAL CENTER OF EL PASO “We provide modern facilities, state-of-the-art technology, all-private rooms and high quality care, which has resulted in high patient satisfaction scores.” “I began working in patient relations 20 years
Following a massive $350 million expansion
“We provide modern facilities, state-of-the-art
ago at what was then Thomason Hospital,”
and renovation at UMC’s main campus in
technology, all-private rooms and high quality care,
says Maria Zampini, native El Pasoan and
2011, an initiative that was largely overseen
which has resulted in high patient satisfaction
Chief Operating Officer for University Medical
by Zampini, the Medical Center is now
scores,” says Zampini. “I am proud to give back
Center of El Paso. “I interacted with patients
focused on providing quality healthcare
to the community where I grew up and to help
on a daily basis and was able to hear about
outside the confines of the hospital’s central
create a healthcare system that will enable El
their experiences and the kind of help they
location. UMC’s next expansion is a $152
Pasoans to receive high quality affordable care.
needed. I did that everyday for many years,
million project that will expand UMC’s
Our goal is to expand our services by creating
which gave me an important perspective for
outpatient system and bring healthcare
primary care centers close to patients’ homes.
the work that I do today. I now see how every
closer to patients’ homes. Zampini, who
We don’t merely want to be the center of acute
decision that is made impacts each patient’s
holds both a BBA and an MBA from UTEP,
care, that’s why we are focusing on creating a
healthcare experience and the quality of care
will again oversee the construction work as
comprehensive healthcare system that provides
that we provide to them and their families.”
well as the Outpatient Center operations.
patients with the right care at the right time in the appropriate setting. That will improve patient outcomes and lead to a healthier community.”
University Medical Center of El Paso
| 4815 Alameda Ave | El Paso, TX 79905 | (915) 544-1200 | www.umcelpaso.org
By: CANDACE VASQUEZ photographed by: ROBERT CORRAL
SPECIAL ADVERTISING | 57
Linda Medrano GRADUATE GEMOLOGIST
B E S T J E W ELE R
S
“It’s the excitement of new jewelry and knowing that I get to make people happy. Jewelry is a happy experience and we get to partake in that every day.”
A jewelry lover not solely by trade, Linda
each day, Linda explains, “It’s the excitement
Ortega, Sales Manager for Jewel Gallery.
Medrano, Graduate Gemologist, was raised
of new jewelry and knowing that I get to make
“We have customers that come into the
from a young age to appreciate the all-
people happy. Jewelry brings people happiness
store in gym clothes, others with pets and
encompassing world of both antique and
-- whether it’s a newly divorced woman buying
then we have some who are dressed to the
modern jewelry. In 1984, Linda’s entrepreneurial
herself a new ring, a soon-to-be engaged couple
nines. Either way, they are all treated with
side ignited the way to align her whimsical
or a gentleman buying his wife an anniversary
the same level of customer service. This is
passion for sparkle with that of sensibility in the
gift, jewelry is a happy experience and we get
why we have the most loyal clientele who
form of Estate Jewelers, a successful business
to partake in that every day.”
have followed Linda for 30 years.”
aptly known as Jewel Gallery. “We grew from
Jewel Gallery operates as a boutique-style
Bringing “unique and extraordinary jewelry
a small 1200 square foot building into a 4000
jewelry store that centers on providing
from all over the world at astonishing prices.”
square foot building,” shared Medrano.
individualized
that has grown and evolved into what is now
Describing what continues to fuel her passion
surpasses
Jewel Gallery also provides a wide variety of
expectation. “Our customer service exceeds
jewelry-related services such as appraisals
beyond the call of duty,” shares Celina
and on-site repair services.
service
that
Jewel Gallery | 7134 N Mesa St. | El Paso, TX 79912 | (915) 845-7740 | www.jewelgalleryep.com | www.facebook.com/jewelgalleryinc 58 | SPECIAL ADVERTISING
By: CANDACE VASQUEZ photographed by: ROBERT CORRAL
Martha Vera & Rosie Oaxaca IMAGING EL PASO Imaging El Paso was created when sisters
for osteoporosis and BRCA testing for the
Imaging El Paso works closely with local
Martha Vera and Rosie Oaxaca, decided to
detection of breast cancer genes BRCA 1
surgeons, other hospitals in El Paso and Las
open a women’s center in 2004. There is
and 2. Knowing that you are BRCA 1 or BRCA
Cruces, and MD Anderson to bring seamless
a history of breast cancer in the family and
2 positive allows you and your physician to
care to their patients.
after years of strife and working with cancer
make decisions to prevent breast cancer by
diagnostics, Vera decided to be the first to
more frequent visits to your doctor for check-
Imaging El Paso’s environment maintains
bring digital mammography to El Paso. With
ups, more frequent imaging, mammograms
a tranquil and comforting atmosphere for
an innovative mindset towards the industry’s
and MRIs, or to make the decision to get a
all their trusting patients. While touching
changes, Vera hoped to raise the standards
preventive mastectomy and hysterectomy.
on the employee’s customer service, Vera
for mammography diagnostics.
BRCA testing at Imaging El Paso is more
describes the effectiveness in reaching out to
affordable to those that would like to take
their patients, “We want to make their day.
the test.
We want to make sure we can alleviate any
Digital mammography is established as the
heartache or nervousness they might have.”
gold standard that creates more readable images to detect any irregularities, as opposed
Derma Vera Solutions is housed in the same
to film. Digital mammography provides much
building as Imaging El Paso. It was started to
Special thanks goes out to Dr. and Mrs. Hugo
less radiation to your breast.
help breast cancer survivors and those currently
Isuani along with all of the clinic’s patients,
on chemotherapy or radiation therapy to take
referring doctors, friends and family who
Along with cancer diagnostics, Imaging El
care of their skin. They also see other clients for
have supported them throughout their 10
Paso also provides ultrasounds, ultrasound
facials. The skin care products are safe and pure
years in business.
guided breast biopsies, bone density testing
for sensitive and cancer therapy skin.
Imaging El Paso | 2930 N Stanton 79902 | 915-545-2273 | www.imagingelpaso.com By: LAURA WERTHMANN photographed by: TOMMIE MORELOS
SPECIAL ADVERTISING | 59
Ellen Gulbas VANITIES
“Owning this business has been incredible because of all the amazing people I have met along the way. Although it’s hard work and requires lots of time, it never feels that way since I love what I’m doing.” Nestled comfortably alongside a bustling street
their customers. “We have a beautiful Pandora
basis and regard them as our friends,” shared
on El Paso’s west side is El Paso’s widely
Shop in shop, and carry many other lines
Gulbas. “Our philosophy is to make everyone
known and highly treasured Vanities Jewelry
of jewelry that are popular throughout the
happy with a gift or purchase and we always
and Gifts boutique. “Owning this business
country,” explains Gulbas. “We research the
provide complimentary gift wrap as a bonus.
has been incredible because of all the amazing
market and try to stay on trend with fashion and
Plus, giving back to the El Paso community
people I have met along the way,” explained
gifts that appeal to a wide range of consumers.
is a huge part of our mission to succeed. We
Ellen Gulbas, owner of Vanities. “Although it’s
We carry bath and body lines, purses, clothes,
are proud of the thousands of donations we
hard work and requires lots of time, it never
shoes, baby gifts and home accessories.”
have made to various organizations to help them raise funds.” Born and raised in El
feels that way since I love what I’m doing.” With a focus on a high standard of excellence
Paso, Gulbas strongly feels it is vital to help
Known for the diversity of their inventory,
in customer service at the forefront, Vanities
our local schools and non-profit organizations.
Gulbas describes her boutique as a unique
is known for their unique approach. “We
shop that offers a wide range of choices to
work to know our customers on a first name
Vanities Jewelry & Gifts | 7933 N. Mesa, Suite N | El Paso, TX 79932 | (915) 584-1183 | www.vanitiesjewelryandgifts.com
60 | SPECIAL ADVERTISING
By: CANDACE VASQUEZ photographed by: ROBERT CORRAL
Jennifer Stroh REALTOR CENTURY 21 THE EDGE
Celebrating 21 years with the Century 21 system! Having an instinctive and personal approach
Along with new homebuyers, Stroh is a
Born and raised in Walsenburg, Colorado,
to life changing decisions, Jennifer Stroh
relocation
many
Stroh moved to El Paso right after high
is a trusted REALTOR® with 21 years of
Relocation
various
school and fell in love with our enchantingly
experience at Century 21. Stroh enjoys
Relocation
with
passionate city and has adopted it as her one
helping first time buyers through the process
referral clients to help them through the
and only home. Stroh has built her business
of acquiring a new home from the moment
nerves of a relocation move. Stroh states,
these past 21 years and was awarded the
they step into her office until she hands them
“I show them things that let them see that
Centurion Award in 2012, to accompany her
their keys. With her welcoming invitation,
there is much more to El Paso…I help each
Presidential title with the Greater El Paso
Stroh takes the nerves out of any situation
person decide what’s good for them.” With
Association of Realtors. Stroh is happy to
for her clients to help them find a comfortable
such an accreditation, Stroh is accustomed to
go the extra mile for all of her clients, to
home environment in the future.
touring El Paso and showing off what the city
take care of any problem, and feels that her
has to offer, not just the home they will live in.
positive client feedback makes her position
specialist
maintaining
Certifications Companies
and
with
works
as a realtor that much more substantial. Jennifer Stroh | 1201 Airway Blvd., Suite C-3 | Cell (915) 588-2338 | Toll Free (800) 346-4234 | Jennifer.Stroh@Century21.com www.ahome4u2day.com | www.JenniferStroh.com By: LAURA WERTHMANN photographed by: ROBERT CORRAL
SPECIAL ADVERTISING | 61
Wendy Rivera, R.N., B.S.N. ELITE LUXURY CARE, LLC., MED SPA “We are in business to allow the inner beauty and confidence of our clients to shine through.” Baylor
After relocating to El Paso from Houston
clients’ expectations. We also offer the ‘TLC
University with a B.S.N, has been a nurse
to be with her husband, Wendy is excited
with ELC’ post-plastic surgery care service to
for 11 years, working in several fields of
to bring Elite Luxury Care and the quality it
ensure a smooth recovery in the privacy of
medicine, including intensive care, oncology,
provides to the Sun City. Opening in early
our client’s homes.”
plastic surgery, and medical spas. In 2007,
May, this posh new business will offer
unhappy with deficits in the medical spa
all the amenities the original does to its
Elite Luxury Care stands out from its
industry, Wendy decided to start her own
Houston clients and even more. “We offer
competitors with its focused personalized
business and Elite Luxury Care, LLC., Med
an array of services, including injectables,
service. “My goal is to ensure our clients are
Spa was born. “I realized that many peoples’
facials, and our exclusive inch-loss system
treated like royalty every step of the way,”
concerns were going unnoticed,” explained
with the Contour Lite system,” said Wendy.
said Wendy. “Everyone is unique, and we
Wendy. “Then one day it dawned on me—I
“Whether people want to look 10 or even 20
do everything we can to customize every
can create a company that addresses these
years younger, reduce stress, melt away fat
treatment.”
concerns, and even exceeds clients’ needs
rapidly, or all of the above, we have exclusive
for improved customer service.”
technology and products that will exceed our
Wendy
Rivera,
a
graduate
of
Elite Luxury Care, LLC., Med Spa | (915) 440-0048 | www.eliteluxurycare.com 62 | SPECIAL ADVERTISING
By: LAURA WERTHMANN photographed by: ROBERT CORRAL
Viannka Barroso
V & X BOUTIQUE
“We wanted to make it (V & X Boutique) an affordable place to shop, but still give you unique clothing, and that experience of shopping at a boutique.” With aspirations to create a cutting-edge
experience where the shopper is taken care
attracted to, and understands their needs
clothing store in El Paso, Viannka Barroso
of and appreciated throughout their visit.
stating, “I value the relationship we build with our customers.”
and her business partner, Christian Garcia, followed their passion and opened V & X
V & X Boutique is unique in the fact that it has
Boutique. Their specific style is tailored to
a men’s clothing section just as big as the
To get the word out, V & X Boutique has
fit a number of fashionistas on a budget.
women’s. Their men’s selection is filled with
loaned their clothes to organizations to help
Barroso states, “We wanted to make it (V
originality and trend setting pieces for those
raise funds, and has participated in fashion
& X Boutique) an affordable place to shop,
willing to make a statement. Their women’s
shows to boost clientele. The newly sprung
but still give you unique clothing, and that
arena contains a trendy or “bohemian chic”
boutique is starting small but hopes to
experience of shopping at a boutique.” With
feel for any fashion enthusiast on a budget.
develop a following once El Paso realizes the
the young professional and university student
Barroso says she’s learned so much from
affordability and quality of the fashionable
in mind, Barroso creates a more personable
her customers on the type of style they’re
pieces they have to offer.
3800 N. Mesa B2 | (915) 351-8692 | vnxboutique@gmail.com | www.vnxboutique.com | Instagram: vandxboutique | Facebook V&X Boutique By: LAURA WERTHMANN photographed by: TOMMIE MORELOS
SPECIAL ADVERTISING | 63
Jennifer Ibarra BLUSH BOUTIQUE & SPA
“Our spa and boutique is warm and comfortable and we always welcome new clients to enjoy our unique setting and their time spent here.” In a world filled with an overabundance of
beginnings, Blush began its operations out
Known
toxicity and stresses, it stands to reason
of Jennifer’s Kern Place home. After one
packages and treatments, Blush also seeks
that a little pampering is not only a nice little
short year, Blush outgrew its initial setting,
to stay abreast of the latest technology in
luxury now and again but perhaps, more
calling for a move to their current location on
the ever-evolving skin care industry. “We
appropriately, a necessity. Offering a wide
Montana. “Our spa and boutique is warm
are the only spa who carries an organic skin
range of services, which include massages,
and comfortable and we always welcome
care line, Eminence Organics from Hungary,
facials, organic spray tans, body wraps,
new clients to enjoy our unique setting and
as well as the only boutique that carries Free
waxing and acupuncture services, among
their time spent here,” Ibarra explained.
People clothing,” Ibarra stated. “We provide
others, Blush Boutique and Spa is a little
“We really do enjoy working and interacting
the quickest Brazilian waxes in town and are
piece of necessitative heaven found tucked
with people on a personal level to help them
the only certified spa for Dermaplaning and
away in Montana’s Historic District.
achieve beauty inside and out. Our business
Dermapen. On top of all that, our therapists
philosophy centers around working hard
are trained a minimum of four times a year from the industry’s leading educators.”
calling
and being nice to people -- it is a mindset
as an esthetician while living in Austin
we follow everyday and is a big part of our
founded Blush in March 2010. With humble
identity as a business.”
Jennifer
Ibarra
who
found
her
for
providing
one-of-a-kind
spa
Blush Boutique & Spa | 1122 Montana Ave. #100 | El Paso, TX 79902 | (915) 247-8747 | www.blushskin.com 64 | SPECIAL ADVERTISING
By: CANDACE VASQUEZ photographed by: ROBERT CORRAL
Corina Vega
C & L PLUMBING SUPPLY CO. “This is a family business. My mom worked very hard to make this company all it is today and I want to keep her tradition and legacy going.” If someone were to ask you what a typical
the management of the company to Corina
Price Pfister, Rheem Water Heaters, Chicago
plumbing shop looked like, you may not picture
after her recent retirement.
Faucets, Zurn, Sloan and more. We also deliver. Our customer service is truly the best.”
a staff of knowledgeable women working behind the counter—but that is exactly what
“This has always been my dream. Since I was
you would find if you were to step into C & L
13 years old, I would come in and sweep or help
C & L Plumbing serves El Paso, Juárez, and
Plumbing Supply Co., Inc. Corina Vega and her
count inventory—today I’m still here and I love
the surrounding areas. The company hopes
team at C & L offer the best plumbing supply
it,” explained Corina. “My mother has taught
to continue to grow and serve the customers
the city of El Paso has to offer.
me all I know and I want to make her proud.”
and city that have been loyal to them for the
Corina has worked for C & L for the last 25
Today the company carries the best in plumbing
years. Her grandfather founded the company
supply. “We sell mostly to residential builders,
back in 1972. When he passed away, the
commercial real estate as well as individuals
company passed to Corina’s grandmother
completing
who then gave it to her mother who handed
“We sell popular brands like Moen, Delta,
last forty-two years.
remodels,”
explained
Corina.
C & L Plumbing Supply Co. | 4300 Rosa Avenue | El Paso, Texas 79905 | (915) 532-3917 By: MEAGAN KINLEY photographed by: ROBERT CORRAL
SPECIAL ADVERTISING | 65
The Desert Gypsy DIANNA WILLIAMS-HEFLEY
“Success to me is finding a way to combine my passion with my business. I loved being a teacher and I love ‘all things Mexican.’ I’m happy I’ve found a business in which I can use my talents and incorporate the things I love.” Dianna Williams-Hefley has lived a life filled
would be a great way to fulfill my dreams and
Another wonderful aspect of buying from The
with unexpected adventures and travel.
showcase the talents of our neighbors to the
Desert Gypsy is that Dianna is a teacher at
Growing up, she and her family would spend
south,” explained Dianna. Today she has a
heart, having taught school and at University
summers exploring eclectic colonial villages
home in Guadalajara that serves as a base for
for a cumulative 18 years, and loves retelling
and camping on pristine uninhabited beaches
all of her traveling, buying and consolidating
the stories of the people and places she has
throughout the country of Mexico. Fast-
the various pieces of “Artesania” before
purchased each item from. “I love teaching
forward to today and it’s no wonder she has
bringing everything back to the U.S.
people about the pieces in the store, how they were made, where I found them and about
developed a sincere love of the country as well as eye for art and design.
Dianna and The Desert Gypsy are proud
the families I buy them from,” said Dianna.
to boast that everything in their store was “People always commented on the Mexican
bought via fairtrade either directly from the
décor in my own home so I thought this
fabricant or from the artist making each item.
The Desert Gypsy | La Placita Santa Fe | 5024 Doniphan #14 | El Paso, Texas 79932 | (915) 227-7014 66 | SPECIAL ADVERTISING
By: MEAGAN KINLEY photographed by: TOMMIE MORELOS
Patricia Garcia De Franco DE FRANCO DESIGNS
“In order to be irreplaceable one must always be different.” —COCO CHANEL
Patricia Garcia De Franco has always loved
Today Patricia of De Franco Designs, in Placita
traditional. They are also known for making
the arts, jewelry and design—but never in
Santa Fe, specializes in creating one-of-a-kind
customized coin bracelets with coins from
her wildest dreams did she imagine that
jewelry pieces, incorporating the unique spirit
various countries or their customer’s travels.
her passion would turn into a flourishing
and passions of each of their clients. “Our
“We have also thoroughly enjoyed designing
business. “My friends would always ask
customers bring us jewelry pieces they want
wedding rings for couples,” Patricia said.
me to restring or redesign their jewelry for
to recycle, or pieces that have sentimental
them—this eventually led to me participating
value—but no longer represent their taste in
Altogether De Franco Designs offers El
in various craft shows where I was able to
jewelry. Our vision is not to sell our inventory,
Pasoans a memorable jewelry shopping
create a client base. Before I knew it, I was
but to help people use what they already have
experience like no other. The opportunity
renting a place downtown in the museum
and to redesign them into new statement
to transform the old into new, and create
district and I have been in business ever
pieces,” explained Patricia. Their designs range
jewelry with a “story” is exactly what Patricia
since,” Patricia recalled.
from modern to minimalist, to more classic and
and De Franco Designs do best.
De Franco Designs | Placita Santa Fe | 5024 Doniphan Dr., #6 | El Paso, Texas 79932 | (915) 351-1832 By: MEAGAN KINLEY photographed by: TOMMIE MORELOS
SPECIAL ADVERTISING | 67
Yari Orta-Rubio,
Realtor- Texas Agent/ New Mexico Qualifying Broker HOME PROS REAL ESTATE GROUP “Real estate for me is not about a one-time transaction, I believe in establishing a long-term relationship with my clients.” “To me, I feel my success at the end of a real
2003 the trajectory of her professional career
Since her initial success eight years ago, Yari
estate transaction when I know my client is
changed course forever after she sold her
has continued pursuing her dream and today
truly happy and satisfied. When I see that,
personal home for over $5,000 above the
has sold over $21.7 million in residential and
I know I’ve done my job.” - Yari Orta-Rubio
appraisal value. Her luck continued later in
commercial sales.
2006 when the home she custom built sold Yari Orta-Rubio wasn’t always in the real
“Real estate for me is not about a one-time
for a $200,000 dollar profit.
transaction, I believe in establishing a long
estate game here in El Paso’s growing market. In fact, she got her start attaining
“I realized that year that my desire to satisfy
term relationship with my clients,” Yari said.
a degree in Fashion Design Textiles and
customers and my ability to build and sell
“Remember, real estate is personal and
Merchandising with a minor in business
homes for a profit was a great combination.
emotional and I do my best to understand
from NMSU. After entering the workplace,
It was at this moment that I realized that I
my clients needs, feelings and make sure
she spent 14 years working in the fashion
wanted to pursue a career in real estate,”
that they feel represented from the very
industry developing the El Paso/Mexico
explained Yari.
beginning to the end of the transaction and
market for a New York Corporation. Then in
beyond if necessary.”
Home Pros Real Estate Group | 230 Thunderbird Drive | El Paso, Texas 79912 | (915) 204-4529 | www.findahomeelpaso.com 68 | SPECIAL ADVERTISING
By: MEAGAN KINLEY photographed by: JONATHAN WEINGERS
Nicole Cabral MYSTIC GRAPE
“We have 48 wines you can purchase by the ounce, half glass and whole glass. This means you can sample wine and find one you want to invest in—either by the glass or by the bottle. We have a total inventory of over 140 wines that you can choose from.” “We have brought the ‘best’ pieces of our wine
“At the time I was attending UTEP, I had a young
“We began to investigate wine,” recalled
experiences from around the world to El Paso.
family and earning a living was high on the
Nicole. “Soon we were collecting wine from
Every detail has a story and reminds us of the
priority list,” explained Nicole. “Consequently
all over the globe.”
wine, the food and the friends that we have made
I changed my major to Metallurgy and fell in
during our years traveling and tasting wine.”
love with molten metal processing. Altogether,
Today Mystic Grape brings the best wine
I have worked in the metals industry for 28
from all over the world to El Paso. “We have
years and worn many hats.”
48 wines you can purchase by the ounce,
Nicole Cabral, co-owner of the Mystic Grape
half glass and whole glass. This means you
(alongside her husband Santiago Cabral), had always hoped of opening a café or bed
Through these experiences and she and
can sample wine and find one you want to
and breakfast—but never thought these day
Santiago’s travels around the world, the
invest in—either by the glass or by the bottle.
dreams would someday lead to opening her
couple quickly immersed themselves into the
We have a total inventory of over 140 wines
own wine bar. Graduating from UTEP in 1986
culture of wine and the delicate experience
that you can choose from.”
with a degree in Metallurgical Engineering,
and hospitality involved with tasting and trying
Nicole’s first love was actually Volcanology
different grapes with friends and family.
(the study of volcanoes). Mystic Grape | 2270 Joe Battle Blvd. | El Paso, Texas 79938 | (915) 921-6277 | mysticgrape.com By: MEAGAN KINLEY photographed by: TOMMIE MORELOS
SPECIAL ADVERTISING | 69
Monica Velasco “Everything is custom-made, if they have a very particular type of project we will collaborate internally... you name it we do it.” With early childhood aspirations of owning her own business, Monica took over FASTSIGNS on Airway after its previous owner settled into retirement almost two years ago. With experience in HR Management and purchasing, coupled with other accreditations, hard work, loving support and creativity, Velasco expanded the FASTSIGNS store on Airway by adding to their portfolio of products and services. She has been innovative in creating new outlets for customers to get their name out. FASTSIGNS on Airway caters to all sizes of businesses and clients around the city and the world, from small jobs to larger industrial orders, such as the military and healthcare. FASTSIGNS on Airway, which has been established for over 22 years, has even done projects for Hollywood. Monica notes on FASTSIGNS’ services and describes a team effort that includes exterior and interior sign designs, banners, pens, promotional products, T-Shirts, installations, and vehicle graphics. Monica states, “Everything is custom-made, if they have a very particular type of project we will collaborate internally...you name it we do it.” Velasco maintains outstating internal communication, appreciates her employees, and collaborates with her entire staff through daily production meetings. Monica has achieved various honorable titles as the new owner of FASTSIGNS on Airway and a member of the board of directors for the Better Business Bureau. She loves interacting with people and putting FASTSIGNS out into the community. She was nominated for Business Woman of the Year from the El Paso Chamber of Commerce in 2013, was given the Pinnacle Sales Award within the FASTSIGNS Company, and recently became a member of Jovenes Empresarios. Velasco supports El Paso businesses as she uses her creativity and drive for FASTSIGNS’ laudable customer service. Monica Velasco | fastsigns.com/144 | 1201 Airway Suite D3 | El Paso, Texas 79925 | (915) 772-5700 | monica.velasco@fastsigns.com 70 | SPECIAL ADVERTISING
By: MEAGAN KINLEY photographed by: ROBERT CORRAL
Shannon Quartermane is a native El Paso business woman who’s pride, devotion, and talent has been showcased throughout her more than a decade career. After starting in El Paso she spent time in Santa Fe, New Mexico where she gained more experience working with high profile clients in the film industry. Upon returning to El Paso in 2007, she decided to open a boutique salon herself, wanting to employ her own unique style of hair artistry and client relations. After meeting her now husband, also a long time El Paso hairdresser, a special union and vision was birthed with a passion for both clients and staff. That vision has created what is now called Quartermane Salon. Shannon Quartermane is not only a mother of three children, and an active member of the Junior League of El Paso, but the owner and creative director for her salon. She tirelessly gives of herself to the community and her staff with a diligence that can be felt by all who know her. With a true entrepreneurial spirit, she wishes for the success, spiritually and economically, of all who work along side her. Often happily behind the scenes make no mistake, Shannon helps drive the dreams of what the salon is and one day will become, from photo shoots to marketing, her presence is felt. Meeka Chavez is a bright and shining example initiative
of
the
leadership
Quartermane
has
strived to employ. She is the first female artistic leader whose incredible talent, warmth and smile illuminate every where she works, be it in El Paso or on the road across Texas to one of the many cities visited by the salon’s ‘away team.’ Chavez is a stylistic force to keep an eye on.
Photographed by: LUI CARDENAS make up by: MATTHEW ABRAHAM
SPECIAL ADVERTISING | 71
November, 2013
BRAVE THINKING. BRAVE SOCIAL + MULTIMEDIA SOLUTIONS.
Video Production Web Design Social Media Commercials Documentaries Music Videos Copy/Motion Graphics
BLACKBIRD CONCEPTS blackbirdconcepts.co
Valentin Sandoval • 915 694 8863 Official Multimedia Producer for
72
el paso magazine
www.thecitymagazineelp.com
November, 2013
73
May, 2014
KTSM’s Lauren Macias-Cervantes
Chasing Down | Photography by: RYAN HALL |
74
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the
L a u r e n M a c i a s - C e r va n t e s
FACTS I
t wasn’t until the end of Lauren’s junior
year at Gadsden High School, when
Lauren has a Bachelor of Arts in Journalism and
Communication
from
New
Mexico
auditions opened up for TV101 – a daily,
State University and a Master of Business
live campus news broadcast, that she
Administration from the University of Phoenix.
thought journalism would be a potential
She received additional training at the Poytner
career path. She auditioned and earned
Institute for Media Studies and the Magid
one of the coveted spots, further developing her
Institute. She is a Kneeland Fellow, graduate of
interest in the field her senior year. If you asked
Leadership El Paso, Class XXXV and is a Board
her what her goal was then, it was to one day
Member for the Public Relations Association of
become a television reporter; never did she think
the Southwest. “I always had to do well in school
she would one day be the News Director at the
growing up and knew I had to pursue a degree
same station where she started her broadcast
because my mom never had that opportunity. She
career shortly after high school.
sometimes worked two jobs to make sure we had what we needed; I wanted to do more. My
Her love for writing, telling stories and adrenaline
professional development was a result of both
from the pace of breaking news coupled with
great bosses believing enough to invest in me,
her dedication and drive helped her quickly move
and my personal desire to grow. My decision to
through the ranks and become a four-time Emmy
pursue, and obtain my MBA came from the need
award winning television producer turned News
to remain competitive in an ever changing world.”
Director. Her accolades are many in the now 14 years experience in television news and five years
Lauren credits her drive, determination and
experience in public relations and marketing.
unrelenting work ethic to her mom Jenny; and knows she would be no where without the
Lauren Macias-Cervantes News Director KTSM/KDBC www.thecitymagazineelp.com
She has been fortunate to grow her career in
help of great mentors who offered advice and
her “hometown.” As mentioned, her return to
opportunities; and her three kids: Aranda, Jakob
KTSM/KDBC is a homecoming of sorts as KTSM
and Damien; husband George and family who
is where she began her career in TV back in
offer love, life lessons and support through the
1995 as an intern. Looking back she thinks she
challenges that often come with the life of a
inherited the news bug from her mom. Lauren
journalist and newsroom leader. “I strive every
remembers “chasing sirens” with her mom
day to be fair, listen and treat others as I would
anytime there was something going on in the
like to be treated. I take my job and responsibility
small town (Anthony) she grew up in. Still today,
seriously
every time there’s smoke in the air or sirens
the stories of, and being part of, our border
nearby – Lauren’s mom is quick to dial up details.
community. Though I have been offered outside
while
thoroughly
enjoying
telling
opportunities, I stay in El Paso for the love of the culture, synergy and familia!
75
Blessed Bless May, 2014
TO BE A
| By: DESIREE LOZANO |
76
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May, 2014
blessed to be a blessing
ing
L
a
to this community. Proceeds donated to
difference in the world has been
SPJ go toward building homes large enough
made possible through the faith
for one family and provides assistance with
and hard work of El Paso native
food, clothing, and everyday essentials.
ooking
cute
and
making
Gina Carameros with her business as a jewelry saleswoman for Premier Design and generous
Carameros was inspired by her best friend to
donations to Siguiendo Los Pasos de Jesus.
become a Premier Designs jeweler with her own motivation of inviting women to make a
Born and raised in El Paso, Carameros found
“purchase with a purpose” and has been able
her calling as (what she refers to herself as)
to successfully donate more than $50,000 in
an “independent vessel of awareness and
two years to SPJ from jewelry sales.
resources for a cause” after being a stay at home mother of two children and dedicating
Premier Designs was started in Dallas and
two decades to volunteer work at their
is built off a foundation of strong biblical
schools. After contemplating on the next
principles and ultimately the company is
step in her life, Carameros became a bible
committed to serving worldwide missions.
study facilitator at her church where she met
The synergy between their business model
the Executive Director of SPJ, Jane Fuller.
and the desire Carameros has to continue helping others is a match made in heaven.
“I’m just a gal who wants to use her life to impact the world and leave it in a better place
“After
than it was when she found it.” Carameros
husband’s 100 percent support I called my
careful
prayer
and
gaining
my
said. “It has been such a rewarding two years
friend and told her I wanted to sign up under
using this industry as a means of outreach
her and become a Premier Designs jeweler,”
for awareness, support and resources for the
Carameros said. “My idea was to take this
great vision of the charity.”
venue and use it for God’s glory to help spread the message of hope to new circles.”
Siguiendo Los Pasos de Jesus, meaning ‘following in the footsteps of Jesus,’ is a
The high fashion jewelry line in which Carameros
501 (c) 3 non-profit organization started by
sells is designed with versatility, affordability
Fuller with the mission of impacting a five
and of course, quality in mind. It boasts a “fun-
kilometer remote and rural area in Juárez,
fordable” price point of $10 - $99 so there is
Mexico through mentorship and bringing
something for every woman’s budget.
homes, health and hope through education www.thecitymagazineelp.com
77
Article Title
May, 2014
“This is very important to me because I want to be inclusionary and represent something that everybody could afford so that all women can be blessed to know they have helped make a difference for a cause,” Carameros said. Carameros is coming up to her second year anniversary as a Successory Coach for Premier Designs. Premier Designs jewelry is sold through fun home shows that women host and invite their friends and family to participate. Prior to becoming a Premier Designs jeweler Carameros began a ministry called Sanctuary in which she used her love of home décor as a vessel for people to plug into for an extreme makeover of their home or selected personal spaces. Carameros would frequently make house calls and lend fresh eyes to people’s homes by rearranging furniture, hanging pictures and staging their favorite home décor items. Proceeds collected through the efforts of Carameros and Sanctuary have been donated to SPJ as well, to lend a helping hand to those living in pallet houses so that they can receive safe and newly constructed homes and build a brighter future for their families. Carameros’
efforts
from
Sanctuary
expanded when she became aware of the outpouring from the community wanting to 78
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May, 2014
Article Title
donate their household items and clothing to the SPJ community. Carameros lent another helping hand by becoming the inspector of all things donated. “It was always so much fun to be able to tuck an unexpected surprise into a pocket that would further bless the one receiving it,” Carameros said. “I really counted it an honor and privilege to work in solitude and mediate on the lives SPJ committed to touch.” After dedicating several years to the efforts of Sanctuary, it became clear to Carameros that the scope of the project stretched beyond her ability to maintain—but that didn’t stop Carameros from making a difference in the world—thus becoming an independent jeweler for Premier Designs. “It is truly amazing to me that we can leave our fingerprints of compassion in the lives of those less fortunate by making a small purchase,” Carameros said. “To know that we can change the world one pair of hoop earrings at a time blows me away.”
______________________________________________ “Siguiendo los Pasos de Jesus, Inc., a Texas nonprofit corporation (SPJ), is not affiliated with, nor is it responsible for, the actions or activities of persons other than those of SPJ itself. SPJ does not promote, endorse, or involve itself with any business operations, products, or sales of products that may be referenced, but focuses solely upon its non-profit activities as described at www.spjinc.org. If you find a website or other publication where it appears that SPJ is endorsing specific products, services, businesses, business affiliations, etc., please contact us immediately so that we can attempt to contact the responsible parties and correct any misinformation. SPJ advises donors to ask questions, and if any additional information is needed, please direct your inquiries to spjinc@hotmail. com. SPJ does not endorse any political candidate or political organization, and the views expressed in the accompanying communication or publication do not constitute any endorsement by SPJ.”
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May, 2014
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Around the
World
and
Back
How Elodia Perches-Adamson has Enriched El Paso’s Growing Market | By: MEAGAN KINLEY photography by: TOMMIE MORELOS |
W
hile some little girls grow up dreaming to become doctors, teachers, or lawyers, Elodia Perches-Adamson grew up knowing she wanted to travel the world. When she was in the middle of her undergraduate education at the
University of Texas at El Paso, she decided it was finally time to make her dreams come to fruition — so she set off for a year of travels abroad. “When I was 20, I left to travel Europe and Africa for six months each — I
s i s s e c c u s , “To me o s o d u o y t loving wha ou never y t a h t h c u m .” e r i t e r o t t wan
had not graduated from College yet, but I knew I just needed to go on a trip. After living in Africa for six months, I discovered how little material items meant to me. When I finally came home a year later, I finished my degree and graduated from UTEP. But after visiting 14 countries in Africa, and six in Europe, I decided to make traveling and seeing the world the focus and point of my life,” explained Elodia. So with her new life mission and after graduating college, Elodia got a job with Pan Am World Airways and began jet setting all over the world. “First, I was based in Los Angeles and traveled all over Asia, later I was transferred to New York where I traveled and saw a whole other part of the world — it was incredibly rewarding,” Elodia described. Elodia spent years traveling the world with Pan Am. “I loved my job. Just being able to see the world was my favorite part,” Elodia remembered. “When I worked there, it truly was when Pan Am was the famous
www.thecitymagazineelp.com
81
Elodia Perches-Adamson
May, 2014 clipper — those were the good old days of flying when everything was fun. Me and the other flight attendants and crewmembers would have nine-day trips to Australia, sevenday trips to India and the like. I truly got to see and experience the world. It wasn’t really about being on a 747 Jumbo Jet, it was about what we were going to do when we arrived in the next country.” Then one day when she came home to visit her parents in between travels, her father told her something that changed her career forever. “My father said to me, ‘this company has put you into the world trade business, you should find a way to make the most of it.’ This truly resonated with me and on one of my trips I came across these snakeskin handbags and clothing. I started bringing these home with me to sell — and that’s actually where my original logo came from — this all happened in the 80s. I then started selling so much that I opened my own Elodia stores. I loved retail so much. I was so happy to have found a day-job
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May, 2014
Elodia Perches-Adamson
that enabled me to travel and use my unique
much to their view of fashion itself. “I feel that
general manager Gladys Meri and the rest of
taste in fashion,” recalled Elodia.
my daughters and I have a unique perspective
my personnel are the heart and soul of my
on fashion — I sit on the world trade center
success. We cannot do what we do alone.”
But then in 2000, when Elodia’s father passed
in Dallas and preview the lines before they
away, she decided to sell the store and she
actually are chosen to go to market,” explained
Elodia and her family believe in challenging
began working at her family’s funeral home
Elodia. “We are one of 10 stores in the U.S.
themselves both in the business and in
business at La Paz – Graham’s Funeral Homes.
who previews the owners and the stores. We
everyday life. “Once a year, I set a big goal.
Elodia quickly became an asset to the business;
handpick the items that are going out into the
It started with seeing places like the Sierra
but in 2004 when the Elodia name was up for
market to the U.S. and the world. I am out of
Desert and since then I have set challenging
sell again, Elodia could not resist and bought it
El Paso 120 days of the year from traveling the
goals that push me to exercise and stretch
back. “I felt it was a great opportunity to get
world so my customers have the newest, and
me out of my comfort zone. By doing this,
back in the retail business that had been my
most exquisite pieces. Being in the business
I have also sailed down the Nile River and
passion for so long. My daughter Sofia then
over 30 years, the manufacturers respect and
when I turned 50 I had to go climb the Great
started Ella Blu and I now have my other store
value my opinion. No one else can offer that.”
Wall of China. Next month, I head to Peru to climb Machu Picchu with many of my bridal
Bridal Novias too, which my other daughter Andrea has now joined. So now I’ve got my
Elodia and her daughters will never stop
friends,” explained Elodia. “In business we
two daughters in the retail business, while I
traveling,
their
want to challenge ourselves the same way by
help them and balance the funeral business —
businesses. The love they have for each
growing and opening more locations. Growth
which serves both El Paso and Juárez.
of their stores transcends the idea of a
is extremely important to us. A business is like
conventional job, it’s obvious that they truly
a bicycle, if you don’t continue pedaling, it falls.
Elodia and her daughters have truly enriched
care about the quality of unique items and
I feel that El Paso itself has so much potential,
the El Paso retail market. With all of their travels
pieces they sell to the customers they value.
it is such a wonderful city to live in, to raise
— the culture and adventure that enrobes each
“We are a family run business,” said Elodia.
children in — and it is definitely home.”
of their worldwide endeavors has brought so
“We want to continue our growth and our
www.thecitymagazineelp.com
exploring
or
growing
83
May, 2014
Leading the Way in El Paso
| By: CHANTEL CREWS ANCELL photos courtesy of: THE JUNIOR LEAGUE OF EL PASO, INC. and DIANE SIERRA |
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junior league
May, 2014
T
he Junior League volunteer
El Paso community through a program of
El Pasoans. Some of JLEP’s high-profile
movement
1901
education and volunteer service. JLEP now
projects include CASA – Court Appointed
when a group of young women
has more than 600 members of all ages
Special Advocates, Christmas in April, El Paso
decided to defy social norms
and backgrounds who are dedicated to the
Desert Botanical Garden, El Paso Community
and tackle the difficult social
belief that volunteer service is an essential
Foundation, Field of Miracles, Independence
issue of poverty in New York City. Such
part of responsible citizenship. JLEP is
House, Kids-N-Co, Los Murales, Midnight
audacious actions soon caught the notice of
an organization of women committed to
Basketball,
other women around the country, and those
promoting
Volunteers in Public Schools, and the Young
women decided to join the Junior League
potential of women, and improving the
movement in order to positively impact
community through the effective action and
their own communities through training and
leadership of trained volunteers. Throughout
JLEP funds its projects and programs through
empowering women to be leaders.
its 80-year history, JLEP has positively
its various fundraisers. For the past 40 years,
impacted the El Paso community through its
JLEP has kicked off the holiday shopping
many projects and programs.
season with its annual A Christmas Fair. A
started
in
On June 9, 1930, twelve bold El Paso
voluntarism,
developing
the
Ronald
McDonald
House,
People’s Symphony Concert.
Christmas Fair is an El Paso tradition, staged
women organized a Junior Service League, and eighty charter members joined the
Each year JLEP studies the critical needs of
with merchants from across the country, and
League in September of the same year. The
the community, partners with other non-profit
is staffed and implemented solely by JLEP
Junior League of El Paso, Inc. (JLEP) was
organizations, and puts its members to work.
volunteers. JLEP also sells its award-winning
founded in 1933 as one of the earliest Junior
JLEP has initiated and implemented more
cookbooks and merchandise through JLEP’s
Leagues in Texas with the goal of training
than 100 successful community projects in El
specialty boutique, Mercado del Sol, also
members for effective participation in the
Paso that have touched the lives of so many
solely staffed by JLEP volunteers.
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85
junior league
May, 2014
Claudia Castillo Makeup Artistry
Polished Skin Expressive Eyes (915) 313-1124 JLEP’s newest fundraiser, Storytellers, brings
stories about life, love, and family. The
in some of the best and most prolific singers/
artists even shared personal stories about
songwriters in the country music industry for
the success of their songs. With each story
an incredible evening of songs, stories, and
and song, Barker, Beathard, and Murphy
support for JLEP. The artists share the stories
gave the audience incredible insight into the
behind their hits and then play those songs
importance of the songwriter to the music
for the audience. Many of these songwriters
we enjoy every day and gained 350 lifelong
may not be easily recognizable or household
fans in the process.
names; however, the artists who perform at Storytellers have been responsible for
The Storytellers artists loved being in El
launching and solidifying the careers of many
Paso – from very special transportation
of country music’s biggest and brightest stars.
with Lucky Duck Enterprises to beautiful Lucchese boots, to visits and pictures at
86
JLEP’s third annual Storytellers event took
some of El Paso’s most famous places,
place on Saturday, March 29, 2014, and
and to the opportunity to meet and talk
singers/songwriters Aaron Barker, Casey
with appreciative Storytellers fans – Barker,
Beathard, and David Lee Murphy entertained
Beathard, and Murphy were treated to JLEP
the audience for more than two hours with
hospitality and the best of El Paso. www.thecitymagazineelp.com
May, 2014
junior league
current chart topping hits, and each year the artist line up is new and different. In just three years, Storytellers has gained quite a following. Sponsorships are already selling quickly for next year’s show set for Saturday, March 28, 2015, and JLEP is expecting yet another sold out event. Money raised at Storytellers is invested in the JLEP Endowment Fund, which ensures the continued vitality of JLEP’s 80-year legacy of voluntarism, leadership, and positive impact on the El Paso community through its programs and projects. For more information about the Junior League of EL Paso, please visit www.jlep.org.
JLEP receives incomparable support from its sponsors for the Storytellers event; this year, 15 returning and 10 new sponsors made Storytellers a great success. United Bank of El Paso del Norte, the Junior League’s Sustaining Community Partner through 2018, continues to lead the way as the founding Record Label Sponsor of Storytellers. Storytellers is not just an exciting fundraiser - judging by the incredible talent JLEP has brought to El Paso with this event in the past three years, Storytellers is also one of El Paso’s most relevant events. Since 2011, it has become practically impossible to listen to country music on the radio and not hear one of JLEP’s Storytellers songwriters’ hits. The artists’ music ranges from old country to www.thecitymagazineelp.com
955 N. Resler Dr. #103 El Paso, TX 79912
915.585.3200 arubasunspa.com 87
May, 2014
Tales of
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Megan Glancey
May, 2014
Honor | By: MEAGAN KINLEY |
El Paso’s Own Megan Glancey is accepted into Naval Air Station Flight School
M
idshipman Megan Glancey,
through four rigorous years of challenges
soon-to-be
of
that push Midshipman to the limit in all
The United States Naval
areas of academic and physical life. But for
Academy’s (USNA) Class
Midshipman Glancey to attain acceptance
of 2014 has defied the odds by attaining
into the Naval Air Station where she and
acceptance into the Navy’s Prestigious
a handful of other top notch Officers will
Naval Air Station Flight School in Pensacola,
learn the ins and outs of Naval Flight to
Florida. For those who are not familiar,
earn their wings and one day serve as
attaining acceptance into Annapolis alone
Naval Airmen is quite a feat of extreme
is a feat accomplished by the best of the
intelligence, honor and strength.
graduate
best—not to mention surviving and thriving www.thecitymagazineelp.com
89
Megan Glancey
May, 2014
After completing the long and difficult process of applying to the Academy, Glancey finally learned she had been accepted and set off to Annapolis to begin her future as a Midshipman and future Officer of the United States Navy—and for the last four years she has completed four formidable and exhilarating Glancey, a native El Pasoan
years of school studying to attain a Bachelor
got her start here as a
of Science degree in English.
graduate of Franklin High
“Throughout high school I had never even thought of or knew about the Service or Academies as a possibility for me. I have always wanted to be in the air, and now I will be.”
School on El Paso’s west
“My decision to become an English Major
side.
became
has proved the most fruitful and fulfilling.
interested in the idea of
The environment we have in Sampson
attending a Service Academy when she
Hall is incomparable to any other academic
began contemplating plans to attend college.
environment here. We will all, bizarrely;
She
first
graduate with a Bachelor of Science in English “Throughout high school I had never even
due to the amount of technical courses we
thought of or knew about the Service
must take here. We are a small major and
or Academies as a possibility for me,”
very close with one another. We spend the
recalled Glancey. “As I was approaching
majority of our free time with one another
the great college decision when my dad
and have cultivated a level of empathy that,
recommended the idea of ROTC or even
in my opinion, will set us above the rest in
Service Academies as a means of paying for
future leadership roles,” Glancey explained.
school. The summer after my junior year, I attended a weeklong program here at USNA
While attending the Naval Academy, Glancey
and really enjoyed the challenge. Both of
was also a member of the Women’s Glee Club,
my grandfathers were in the Air Force, my
where she traveled across the United States
mother’s father was a pilot. The idea of flying
competing and performing in various events,
and the travel opportunities that come with it
as well as a member of the Women’s Golf
enticed me extremely. I have always wanted
Team for a few seasons. She also participated
to be in the air, and now I will be.”
as an active member of the BCM, the Baptist Collegiate Ministry organization on campus.
90
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May, 2014 With the giant goal of graduation almost complete, Glancey recalled some of the challenges
she
overcame,
“The
most
challenging part of Academy life is absolutely plebe year/plebe summer. Taking rockstar high school students and stripping them down in order to build them up as a team is the general purpose of those two portions of your time here. Staying positive during this time definitely helps.” Glancey’s unyielding perseverance got her through Annapolis and will certainly continue to help her succeed as she moves onto her next big challenge in flight school and beyond. “I have no idea what platform I would like to fly with after completing flight school and getting winged,” Glancey explained. “I do know I plan on returning to school, perhaps more than once; I’m a knowledge junkie. I would like to teach, even here at the academy if I can swing that gig. The Navy makes it very easy for you to take advantage of their opportunities in whatever way works best for you. I gained a free education, job security after graduation, the possibility to be a Naval Flight Officer in naval aviation, and a decently stable future. I’d like to get married and have a family but I, unlike others, haven’t found this to be an immediate necessity of mine. Time will tell, I’m in no rush to make big decisions.” Megan Glancey’s story is truly an inspiration to many, ranging all the way from her hometown of El Paso, Texas to women alike. Time will certainly tell, as Megan said, but we are all quite excited for the incredible opportunities and success that are sure to follow this amazing young woman. Congratulations, Megan Glancey!
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May, 2014
Where Are They Now?
El Pasoan
Lindsay Hovel Hits Hollywood | By: VALENTIN SANDOVAL |
92
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May, 2014
I
L i n d s ay h o v e l
t is often said that the actual journey
That was Hovel’s tipping point at a very young
is more rewarding than the final
age. Hovel became a game changer in every
destination. Whether this principal
respect. Lindsay would take that momentum
manifests itself in one’s life, or not, it is
as she matriculated into a first time producer,
still worth considering. In Lindsay Hovel’s life
again with El Paso filmmaker Ryan Williams,
this idea resonates through her charisma and
who’s now married to America Ferrera and is
ebullience towards her career in Hollywood
working with the likes of Steven Soderberg
and is truly infectious and inspiring. I was able
and George Clooney. Hovel co-produced
to talk to Lindsay and ask her a few questions
Ryan’s first full-length feature film, “The Dry
about her start and her budding career.
Land.” From there, her career continued to grow and she’s worked with all the major
Lindsay Hovel, a native El Pasoan, is a
networks, NBC, CBS, and ABC.
graduate of Eastwood High School. Her family has had a successful dental practice
One of Hovel’s career influences was
in El Paso’s lower valley for 45 years. Today,
working and learning from Mashawn Nix,
she lives in Los Angeles with a 512 area
senior vice president of programming at the
code. I asked her how she ended up there
Oprah Winfrey Network. Nix’s work ethic and
And when you put that idea on air, you realize
and the response was that she’s a graduate
tenacity provided a career lay out for Hovel.
how people respond to it. You become a
of UT Austin’s revered RTF (Radio Television
She found someone with a vision that was
taste and culture maker. This is a big part of
and Film) program that has produced local
after her own heart. But the more profound
what drives any producer.”
filmmakers making larger forays like Steve
inspiration in her work has come from her
Osborn, Manny Mendoza, and Cristina
roots and her family in El Paso:
I ask Hovel regarding the male-female divide in Hollywood. Does it exist? What role has the
Ibarra, as well as industry legends such as Richard Linklater and cinematographer Lee
“The north star in my life has always been
“good old boy” system played in making her
Daniel, Wes Anderson, Robert Rodriguez,
my family. They run a very successful dental
dreams come to fruition? And to my surprise,
and Oscar Award winning actor Matthew
office in El Paso. For 45 years my grandparents
Hovel explains to me that it’s really no easier
McConaughey, to name a few.
and parents have maintained their business
for men, than it is for women. Apparently the
through a very solid work ethic.”
gender tectonic plates are shifting and the gap between men and women is dissipating
She left to Austin, understanding that it was soon to become the “3rd coast” of the film
The perpetual question I’ve heard throughout
industry. Of course this was prior to current
the years is, “What does a producer really do?”
into the ether. “What it comes down to is performance and
day Hollywood’s move into incentivized New Mexico. Hovel knew since she was a kid that
Upon dialoging with Hovel, the insight
results. There’s still progress to be made. But
show biz was her destiny. And that course
I gained from a producer at her level
there really is a pretty even split between
would begin with getting her internship
brought the light of clarity to an otherwise
female and male movers and shakers.”
on the highly coveted show “Alamo,” the
arbitrary and nebulous concept. This was
biggest show in Texas at that time.
made manifest by a track record that is
Each project Lindsay Hovel is a part of, is
bourgeoning each and every day.
an incremental zeitgeist that somehow continues to evolve. With her career sky
The irony of being from our unique borderland frontier was that:
“What drives me is taking an idea and
rocketing, Hovel genuinely has El Paso
concept that inspires me. There’s no way
closest to her heart and is always looking
“Being from El Paso has been a very pivotal
of being objective. When something comes
for opportunities to come home and maybe
resource in my career,” Lindsay said. “For
your way, you go based off of what you know
work and enjoy her transforming hometown.
one, the production coordinator, Danny Salas
and what resonates with you. You develop
was also an El Pasoan. And so that intrigued
the game plan, and you execute it…from the
him that I was also from El Paso. That played
producing side, you come to a consensus.
a large role in being a 19-year-old, who got to work on a $110 million film.”
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93
Candice Reyes May, 2014
seeking to be a creator of
c i s u m
never the imitator | By: JOSE SOTO photography by: STEVE GARDUNO |
94
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candice reyes
May, 2014
E
Abel Mireles (saxaphone) Shaun Mahoney (guitar) Nico Perkins ( drums) David Rodriguez (bass) www.epjazzexchange.com
l Paso is the divergence of musical talent,
with Azucar and other local bands. Naturally,
was awarded a scholarship by the non-profit
diversity and uniqueness. It’s home to an
they were the ones who exposed me to
organization known as El Paso Friends of
array of musical scenes, catering
jazz music. I played different instruments
Jazz, which promoted my college studies.
to the ears of music enthusiasts across the
throughout my school years and started
I played with different bands for a bit as a
town. The sumptuous sounds of jazz are some
singing in the jazz choir during high school. I
vocalist and finally started by own band, the
of the notes that can be heard throughout our
tried out for the Youth Jazz Ensemble under
Candice Reyes Quintet in 2005. Since then,
city. The slurs from the saxophone caress
the direction of Marty Olivas, who is a great
we’ve been playing for a variety of audiences
the air, fostered by a syncopated drumbeat, a
local musician, and was their lead singer from
throughout town.
soft pulse from the bass and a finesse vocal
2002-2004. Upon graduating high school, I
stream. If this is the case, you most likely are
CM: Tell us about your musical style.
listening to the talent of the Candice Reyes
What does it consist of?
Quintet, one of few jazz ensembles found
CR: The style of music that I sing is definitely
around town. Lead by their vocalist, the
a mix of modern and classic jazz. I try to fuse
Candice Reyes Quintet offers music fans the
the old with the new. I’ve always loved and
kind of jazz performances that are seldom in
been attached to the classic jazz standards
El Paso. Candice Reyes, an esoteric vocalist
and sound, yet listening to new ideas and
who won the first El Paso Idol back in 2003,
new sounds have matured my sound.
is a young talent that is, literally, all that jazz. With a substantial musical background, an
CM: What particular artist sparked your
integral and ongoing education in music
interest in jazz vocals?
and a natural talent for the genre, Candice
CR: As a little girl my first influence and
Reyes seeks to put jazz back to where it
still is, Ella Fitzgerald. I remember my
used to be; at the forefront of the music
parents playing one of her cassettes.
scene. The City Magazine had a one-on-one
Specifically, I remember the song
with Reyes and spoke about what is it to be a jazz musician in the Sun City.
“Tisket a Tasket.” I remember very clearly that I heard her voice and told myself “I want to sing like
The City Magazine: Where did
that.” Ella Fitzgerald has been my
your musical endeavor start?
biggest influence in my vocal career.
How were you exposed to the
She inspired me and influenced me
world of music?
tremendously with here scat singing,
Candice Reyes: I’ve always been
perfect pitch, and great feeling for
exposed to music. Both of my
the style. But I also have others: Billie
parents are musicians. My mother,
Holiday, Sarah Vaughn and some more
Dora Reyes, was the lead singer
recent jazz influences like Fay Claassen,
for “Azucar”(a Latin-jazz band) for
Esperanza Spalding and Robert Glasper.
26 years. She’s currently a choir teacher. My father, David Reyes, is a trombone player who played with the Navy Band and also 95
Article Title
CM: Do you find that the jazz scene in
an ear for jazz in the border city. I hope to
some may not agree. Being born into a musical
El Paso is dwindling? Is it hard to find a
capture more of an audience and get locals to
family, I have learned to have the feeling and
concrete following for jazz musicians
open their minds to different styles of music.
rhythm for music. It’s provided my “natural
here when there are many more thriving
It seems that most people feel intimidated
talent.” A lot of people mention older artists
musical scenes?
to hear music they can’t understand or relate
and say that they did it all with their natural
CR: I must say in El Paso, the jazz scene has
to, but I see the scene growing and people
talent, without any educational background.
been through a bit of a struggle. The small
becoming a bit more interested in listening to
I agree, but one way or another, they had to
scene that we have, however, is extremely
live jazz. We hope to see more people come
learn the fundamentals and specific rules to
special because there is a lot of great
out and support it in El Paso.
truly come up with the language of jazz and understand it. By studying music and really
talent here. There are excellent musicians in this town and not a lot of locals know or
CM: You’re about to graduate from UTEP
going into depth of what it means and what it
understand that. Nor do many people know
with a degree in Commercial Music/
stands for, you get an educated sense of how
that jazz is the first American born musical
Vocals Performance. Why did you feel the
to play the way the composer intended it to
genre. That being said, it has influenced a lot
need to further your education and not
be. I am very grateful that I have studied the
of music today. El Paso has a very small jazz
just do what many other musicians do: do
art and craft of music because I don’t feel as
scene. However, as the years go by I feel it
it from natural talent?
limited with my expression and perspective
has expanded and more people are gaining
CR: Studying music is a great thing, although
of how I want to be labeled as a vocalist. I
96
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May, 2014
Airway Blvd. & Montana 915-778-1444 • GarciaCarsElPaso.com don’t feel I’ve lost anything from studying music. With education, you can explore new sounds, guidelines, harmony, groups, instruments and become a creator of music instead of an imitator.
FA M I LY- O W N E D & O P E R AT E D
CM: What can we expect of you in the near future? CR: My future plans include obtaining my masters in Jazz Vocals, playing with different musicians to evolve my professionalism and record some albums. A big dream of mine is to return to El Paso and build a music school for low-income students who otherwise couldn’t afford to broaden their talents. Through scholarships, I would like to help these students explore the world of music and eventually make professional musicians out of them. I think our city is in need of this, and I would love to provide that for El Paso to
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further the love of all music. Candice Reyes can be heard across town at shows playing with her group The Candice Reyes Quintet. For events, please visit www. facebook.com/candicereyes5
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sunsetfuneralhomes.net
97
On The
May, 2014
Fast Track
| By: REED LONEY |
98
Photo by: Ivan Pierre Aguirre
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Sports
May, 2014
When asked about her future plans, Janice Jackson replied, “Well, I’m a history major … I actually would like to be a history professor.” This makes an absurd amount of sense. Janice is a star hurdler for UTEP’s track and field, and in fact is one of the best hurdlers in the nation. It is of no surprise then that running hurdles and her studies both reflect a common interest – time. Whether it is studying the past or racing to beat a previous record, time is predominately on her mind, and has been since the beginning.
J
Janice was born in St.
Unfortunately, lack of funds prevented Janice
remembers Jackson. Her coach must have
Catherine,
and
from competing until 6th grade, and after
had an eye for the talent before him because
remembers how her intrigue
that until high school. In 9th grade, Janice
Janice was asked to come back and practice
in running started well before actually being
started running the 4x4 and the 200-meter
with the hurdling squad.
on a track team. It started during a Field
regularly, but her heart just wasn’t in it.
Day outside her school, where they divided
“Freshman year was rough. I was running
In the beginning, hurdling for Janice was
the students into different age groups to
70 something in the 4x4 just because I didn’t
both a barrier to get over both physically as
compete in running events. “I only ran one
want to do it,” she recalled. Her 200-meter
well as mentally. She couldn’t even begin
race. I didn’t win,” laughed Janice. “But
times were good, but just didn’t feel like a
to actually compete until her sophomore
(after that) I knew I wanted to run! Every
perfect fit. There was something missing
year. But that’s when doubt started creeping
little kid (in Jamaica) wanted to be a runner.”
– something that caught her eye all those
in - “I have to run as fast as I can and jump
After moving to Brooklyn, she saw this
years ago at the Colgate games.
over something?” It was a difficult thing to
Jamaica
balance. So much so in fact that the hurdling
unorganized passion slowly grow. When asked what sparked her original
coach began to have doubts in his original
In elementary school, a track competition
interest in hurdles, it is evident Janice
prognosis of Jackson’s potential. It was after
called the Colgate Games for kids was one
can’t help but smile. “I was at the Colgate
this realization that Janice began focusing.
of her earliest memories of competing. In
games when I saw them running hurdles.
“He wanted to quit on me. But I said, ‘I got
order to see what students were fastest,
I remember this girl – she was beating
this, I got this,’ and that really pushed me
her gym teacher “had everyone in our class
everybody! She had these long colorful
and got me over my fear.” The result? Janice
run against each other, and I ended up being
socks and I thought that was so cool. I want
finished high school as a top ten competitor
the fastest – I even beat the guys!” she
to do that! So in high school I said ‘Hey, I
in both indoor and outdoor hurdles.
remembered with a smile. After putting on
want to do hurdles.’ I asked my coach …
a show in front of her class, she was placed
and he told me to go see the hurdle coach.”
When the time for a college decision came,
in two races, the 55 and the 200, and ended
And so Janice trotted over to the hurdle
big name schools like Clemson, Michigan,
up placing third in the 200. As for the 55?
coach to try her hand at it, something that
Nebraska, and Georgia Tech all came knocking
“I don’t remember what I finished in the
originally did not come easily. After putting
with scholarships in hand. For Janice, after
55,” Janice admitted, “but the next day I
up a hurdle to gauge her abilities, he said,
visiting Clemson’s campus the decision was
remember being really sore and thought,
“Go ahead and jump over this! So I did and
an easy one. She thought it was beautiful
man I hope I can do this again!”
they started laughing at how bad I looked,”
and immediately felt like her college home.
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99
sports
May, 2014
Photo courtesy of: C-USA
And schools up North like Michigan? “As a
showing and growing simultaneously, and
achieve them, it gets frustrating.” For her to
Jamaican? Shoveling Snow? I was like no
the change to UTEP seemed to have much
finally break 8 on the 60 meter hurdles was
way!” she laughed. “(Clemson’s) campus
to do with it. “It’s been really good … when
essentially her white whale – something
and the coach had a good reputation for
I originally came I was a little antisocial …
that was only obtainable through being able
hurdles.” As we know, Jackson would not
but I broke out of that mold and got to know
to mentally overcome the obstacles as well
find her permanent college home at Clemson.
the team really well and that has made my
as physically. “[Improvement is a] gradual
experience really great.”
process. Last year at Nationals I became an All-American – but 8th place was not what I
So why the change to UTEP? “It’s kind of a funny story,” she remembers. “Exactly a
There are a lot of things Jackson can be
was looking for … I realized I had to work on
week before I went to Clemson I tore my ACL,
proud of – personal records set, school
my focus after that meet.”
and I didn’t know I tore it.” After hobbling
records, even national records. That’s what
along in orientation and realizing she couldn’t
was so impressive about her answer for
And so, Janice has been focusing ever since.
straighten her leg, she wisely decided to see
what memory is fondest to her. “The most
She tends to be her biggest critic – finding
a doctor. After surgery, she had a difficult
fun I have ever had is the Converse Meet
fault in races where others congratulate her.
time adjusting with a healing leg to her new
– they had me in the hurdles of the 2 and
“People are sometimes more proud of me
school, and a change felt like the only remedy
the 4x4. I had a whole bunch of homework,
then I am myself,” she admits. She recalls
– and UTEP ended up being the cure.
but I could balance everything and different
what her coach said to her – “You have to
events and I just had a blast! I am glad I went
believe you are going to do well, you have to
Immediately after arriving Jackson began
out there,” she smiles. Not national record,
believe it. Do not ignore that.” And so Jackson
making an impression, setting the second
nor a personal record – it was this memory
is focusing on the right things. Focusing
fastest time of 13.24 in UTEP history in the
that she was the happiest.
on victory, focusing on improvement, and always, always, with time on her mind.
outdoor 100-meter hurdles at the NCAA prelims as well as other impressive numbers.
When pressed, she will admit that running
For indoor, she achieved a school best 8.28
a 7.98 on the 60 hurdles was her own
in the 60-meter hurdles at the Alex Wilson
personal victory. “You have all these big track
Invitational. It was clear her potential was
goals when you arrive and when you don’t
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May, 2014
A HistORy Of
MOTHERINg | By: BRITTANY SAWREY |
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m o t h e r ’ s D ay
May, 2014
T
oday many people associate Mother’s Day with a special day to give flowers, cards, and gifts to mothers, a day to honor them for raising us through temper tantrums, tears and tribulation. The celebration of mothers can be traced back even to the Greeks and Romans, who used to hold festivals to honor Rhea and Cybele, their mother goddesses, and the holiday has a rich (and slightly odd) history. One of the first precursors we see is in a Christian festival celebrated through much of the United Kingdom and Europe called “Mothering Sunday.” This early festival fell on the fourth Sunday in Lent, and was really intended to draw people back to their “mother church,” meaning whatever church was closest to them. It was also a day that servants were given off, so that they could go to church with their families; this was often the only time the entire family could gather once the children began working. This celebration slowly shifted into a more secular celebration, closely resembling our own holiday with children giving their mothers flowers or gifts. The history of the U.S. version of Mother’s Day is slightly unexpected. Before the Civil War, Ann Reeves Jarvis began a “Mothers’ Day Work Club,” which from 1861-1865 helped to teach women in the local communities proper child care. After the Civil War, these clubs actively helped with reconciliation, building bridges between Union and Confederate families on the common ground of
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motherhood. In 1868, Jarvis even organized an event called “Mothers Friendship Day,” where mothers would gather with Union and Confederate soldiers to promote healing and reconciliation between the forces. Julia Ward Howe was also a driving force behind the eventual holiday; in 1870 she wrote to mothers, calling them to promote peace, in a document entitled “Mothers Day Proclamation.” Three years later, she campaigned to have a “Mothers Peace Day” celebrated every June 2nd, although the holiday never took off. Juliet Calhoun Blakely, Mary Towles Sasseen and Frank Hering can also all be considered pioneers toward Mothers Day, whose individual activist roles continued to raise awareness. However, the final founding of Mothers Day is due to Anna Jarvis, the daughter of Ann Reeves Jarvis who founded the “Mothers’ Day Work Club” and who died in 1905. Following her mother’s death, Anna Jarvis began to campaign for an official celebration of mothers and the sacrifices they make for their families. She received financial help from a department store in Philadelphia, and in 1908 the first official Mother’s Day was celebrated at a church in West Virginia, and also at the Philadelphia department store. Due to this success, Jarvis – who was unmarried and childless her whole life – began writing to politicians and newspapers, arguing that national holidays were biased toward men and that the sacrifices of women needed to 104
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May, 2014 be honored as well. Many states, churches and local communities had adopted the day by 1912, and in 1914 President Woodrow Wilson officially added the holiday to the calendar. Unfortunately, once the holiday became officially recognized, it became commercialized as well. What Jarvis imagined to be a simple recognition within families of motherhood and their appreciation for their mothers quickly turned into a moneymaking event for florists and card makers. Disgusted, Jarvis ironically spent the rest of her life trying to get the holiday removed from the calendar, and spent much of her personal wealth suing people for using the term “Mothers Day.” Thankfully she was not successful, and on the second Sunday of May we, flowers and card in hand, have the opportunity to thank our mothers for all they have done and continue to do for us.
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2014
May, 2014
El Paso Independent School District
Teacher of the Year
Nominations | By: MEAGAN KINLEY |
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t e a c h e r o f t h e y e a r n o m i n at i o n s
Everyday while we are each going about our daily business, children all over our great city go to school. Every morning the buses file out one-by-one and travel to their various precincts in the city to pick up the precious cargo they will transport to one of the many elementary, middle and high school around town. You may see them, or notice the heavy traffic around the three to four o’clock hour when schools let out—but everyday when all of this is going on there are amazing teachers inside these schools teaching and giving all they’ve got to their students. To honor these special professionals the El Paso Independent School District has nominated ten of the top educators for their prestigious Teacher of the Year Award. Here is a list of these inspiring nominees as well as a short snippet of how they view the world of teaching:
Donald R. Belknap Christina Anguiano
Lundy Elementary School
Andress High School
Elementary 5th Grade Teacher
High School Biology Teacher
“Genuine respect for all my
“Teaching is an art and as with any art, a teacher must nurture the
students guides my classroom practice; I believe no other single
gift. The passion and love I have for my classroom is worn on my
factor is more important. It is a fundamental piece that builds a
sleeve everyday. I believe in teaching because I value learning.
successful classroom. My primary goal is to co-construct tools for
Teaching is not a ‘one size fits all’ nor ‘one size fits most.’ It is
my students to place in their life skill toolbox. Tools they build on
individualizing every day, every class, every moment, for the entire
their journey of self-discovery that they will reach for when their
school year, and then some. My rewards in teaching are tangible
light bulb turns on. The day that occurs is the day their toolbox
and intrinsic: my students’ ‘aha’ moments and knowing that I can
becomes a steppingstone to their future.”
sleep at night because I have given the students my best.”
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t e a c h e r o f t h e y e a r n o m i n at i o n s
May, 2014
Louise Bergdahl
Gregory A. Davis
Lincoln Middle School
Douglass Elementary School
Middle School Science
Elementary Physical
Technology Teacher
Education Teacher
“I feel rewarded and so blessed to be in a profession that allows me
“My personal feelings about teaching stems from the love and
to learn new concepts every day, to constantly stretch my creativity,
respect I have developed for my instructors since starting school.
to encourage and inspire children and adults through positive
Education was and is a very valuable commodity to my immediate
reinforcement and to pass on my belief and passion that education
and extended family to this day. My parents instilled in us that
is the door to opportunity. My students reward me daily by being
teachers were to be respected and listened to at all times. They
actively engaged in their learning. For me, the greatest reward is
were the ones given the responsibility and task of building up,
when my former students return and share with me what they are
directing and preserving the next generation of adult leaders.”
now doing or what is in their future plans. I will continue to guide all my students so they can discover and reach their full potential, allowing them to share their ‘gifts’ with all.”
Blanca Holguin Sharon A. Gonzales
Dr. Green Elementary School
Schuster Elementary School,
Elementary Bilingual 3rd Grade Teacher
Elementary 1st Grade Teacher “My purpose as a teacher is to instill a belief of success in each
“My students are the ones who mold me. I quickly realized that they
of my students. One of my goals at the beginning of every school
guide my teaching style, lesson plans, and my approach to how I am
year is to discover my students’ learning styles. I strive to know
going to teach them. As a bilingual teacher, I teach students who are
and accommodate each of my student’s style of learning as well
new to this country, or are still learning English. I don’t believe that
as making the lesson personal by using techniques to create a
not knowing the English language is a hindrance to learning. I try to
memorable and enjoyable learning environment. I am constantly in
motivate and encourage my students to work to the best of their
search of new and innovative ways to keep my students engaged
ability. I am truly blessed, and I am rewarded every day because I am
and interested in learning. My wish for my students on the first day
fortunate to be able to see and acknowledge my student’s daily and
of school is the same as the last—to love learning.”
progressive successes.”
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t e a c h e r o f t h e y e a r n o m i n at i o n s
Kristina A. Mills Chapin High School High School AP US History
Alma Rojo
AP Psychology/
Austin High School
Sociology Teacher
High School English Teacher
“Every day I am presented with an opportunity to impact my
“‘You can lose your home, you job, or even your spouse, but no
student’ lives and I strive to make the most of the moments I have
one can take away your education.’ A dear friend congratulated me
been blessed with. To me, my students’ time is the most important
with these words as my graduation ceremony neared. Although my
commodity and I try not to waste it. Feeling strongly that it is
education has always been an important priority in my life, I had not
imperative that I get to know each of my students not only as a
really thought about how ‘no one can take away [my] education’
student, but as a person, has grounded me. I want to help empower
before. This phrase still echoes in my mind, and I try to instill
them by believing in them and helping them see the potential that
this concept within my students’ frame of mind using real-world
they possess.”
connections, my own personal experiences, and by utilizing and maximizing available technology.”
Juan Carlos Villarreal Transmountain Early
Carrie Stice
College High School,
Kohlberg Elementary School
High School
Elementary 1st Grade Teacher
Mathematics Teacher
“Teaching my students provides me daily rewards. I know that each
“Everyone is able to explain an idea, but not everyone is able to teach it. I
day my students walk away with a new experience, skill, strategy,
believe that many times people confuse teaching with simply standing
life lesson, more confidence, or even just knowing that someone
in front of people and talking about a topic, but teaching is much more
cares for them and believes in them. There is a saying, ‘It’s the
than that. Teaching involves the idea of being able to transmit the
little things in life,’ and those are my rewards. The little things like a
knowledge you posses in a way that people will understand it and
smile, a hug, a high five, or a picture that they created just for me are
be able to reproduce it. Teaching is an art, not just a simple action; it
some of those rewards. I believe that teaching is one of the most
requires talent, dedication, and perseverance. However, that is not the
rewarding jobs but also one of the most impacting and life-changing
main component of teaching. The most important thing, to be a good
experiences for a child.”
teacher, is to care about the students, create close connections with them, and do what is best for them to ensure their success.”
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A New Face, With The Same
Photo by: Robert Corral
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Commitment To Service
F
or more than forty years the Hoy Fox Group has provided prospective car buyers in the El Paso area with two things of
| By: MARKO A. MORALES |
significance, quality automobiles and a high level of customer service not easily matched by another. Since 1973, Hoy Fox has grown from its original Volkswagen dealership purchased
by Mr. Bob Hoy, into three different locations, representing eight different automobile franchises. Over the years, the car styles and buildings utilized to display them may have changed and more recently in the case of Mercedes-Benz of El Paso the individual in the sales manager position has changed, but the same commitment to customer service continues on. Leslie Fleischer has handled the sales manager position and all that encompasses it for the last three and a half years. As of March, Aaron Scott Enriquez has stepped into his new role and Fleischer has returned to the sales floor, a position familiar to him and one that has brought him great pride and success. Fleischer worked for Mr. Fox in the eighties. Due to personal reasons, he found it necessary to step away for some time. He was told the door would remain open, should he choose to return. Twenty years or so went by before Fleischer did exactly that. He returned to the business of selling cars and has been back with Mercedes-Benz of El Paso since 2005. Before joining the Hoy Fox family all those years ago, Fleischer worked in sales outside of the car industry. Fleischer’s decision to tread back to the sales floor was made to, “Keep the ball rolling the way it’s always been, customer service, treating everybody right...the way they want to be treated,” explains Fleischer. “It is a good team up here, everybody is going to do that.” Enriquez began his employment with Mercedes-Benz of El Paso five years ago in sales and a short time later was given the opportunity to move into finance. Much like Fleischer, Enriquez’s drive comes from his desire to provide the best aid in customer service.
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mercedes-benz
May, 2014
Whether an individual has simply never purchased a vehicle from Mercedes-Benz of El Paso, or they are mistaken about the size of the dealership’s showroom and what they have in their inventory, Enriquez feels that all those in the market for a luxury vehicle should stop in and see what their sales team can do for them. Aside from what one might see driving by the dealership, the sales team has access to several acres full of vehicles, all available to be looked over by anyone in the market for a luxury car. “I want them to buy local. I want them to come here knowing that we are wanting to work with people and to truly understand they do not need to buy out of town to get what they are looking for.” One of the new sales manager’s goals is to lessen the number of people in the market for a Mercedes-Benz who are buying from out of town dealerships and instead have them look into what types of deals Mercedes-Benz of El Paso can offer. Enriquez brought the experience he gained while managing the sales floor at Acura, another of the Hoy Fox family’s dealerships to their Mercedes showroom. “He knows how to manage the position he is in,” Fleischer says. “Aaron knows how to work with everybody...It’s a lot of work to manage not just people...you have to manage inventory, you have to know how to structure the financing.” It seems Fleischer is more than confident in Enriquez’s experience and ability to continue the automotive group’s tradition spelled out in its own mission statement, “To build client relationships for life by providing an experience that exceeds all expectations, through our associates ... who are professional, totally dedicated and always appreciative of our client’s loyalty.” For years, Fleischer has had a running joke with his wife that could really be seen as a model for what Hoy Fox and its associates strive to accomplish on a daily basis. When Fleischer would make his way back home from work during his earlier years on the sales floor his wife would ask, “ Did you make anybody cry today?” Fleischer explains how he once helped out delivering a Mercedes-Benz to a retired schoolteacher. As he sat in the passenger seat, he asked her if Photo by: Marko Morales
she was happy with her purchase. Overwhelmed with the elation of finally owning her very own “dream ride,” the lady cried tears of joy.
“What really brings a smile to my face is when we know we did our
For Enriquez, Fleischer and the rest of the Mercedes-Benz of El
job... When they (the customer) actually leave with smiles and are happy
Paso employees, it is moments like these that bring them the most
knowing they made a good decision to go with what they bought,”
satisfaction. “That’s what it is,” Fleischer says, “We are all here to
Enriquez explains. It brings him great joy to be a part of that process.
strive to do well.”
The only real frustration Enriquez encounters in his new position
“Aaron is here to do well and I’m here to help him and back him up...
occurs when the public does not take the opportunity to buy locally.
It’s a good team.”
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Hidden
G
ms
Coffee May, 2014
| Written and photographed by: ANDRÉS RODRÍGUEZ |
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With a Kick of
HIDDEN GEM four baristas that work there,
“At Pinup, it’s not about sexualizing women,“
Sarah says.
Sarah says, “it’s about empowering them.” Sarah, who makes lingerie and crafts on the
It’s 50s with a modern twist;
side, knows about women struggling with
the
their sexuality.
coffee
shop’s
co-owner
Jimmy Hernandez calls it. “It’s a different concept. It’s mom-
“I just try to show a message to the ladies
and-pop-owned but artistic at the
that lingerie is not for your boyfriend, it’s for
same time.”
you. It’s not for anyone else,” she says.
Jimmy says the idea sprung
Jimmy says their goal is not to be risqué.
from the pinup symbology of
They want to be supportive of the everyday
the 50s, 60s and 70s combined
woman. The head of the household, Jimmy
with the idea of an independent
calls her. To this effect, soccer and karate
woman.
moms receive a 10 percent discount.
Girl Power
of
The look of the drive-thru shop is not
arah Lou is preparing a cup of coffee
s
women, girl power, women doing their
only unique but also a form of expression
in a thrifted white dress covered
thing,” he says. “The cute girl next door but
for Sarah and the other employees. She
in prints of purses and hearts. Her
also very tough at the same time.”
says they dress rockabilly, vintage, indie
shaved sides, all wrapped in a pink bandana.
The drive-thru has been open for a year and
This morning, she’s dressed in pinup attire,
a half and has been kept mostly low-key.
she says as she pulls up a repurposed chair
They serve coffee and tea, in Gidget (12 oz.),
“Everyone loves Madonna, or a vintage
covered in stickers.
Hepburn (16 oz.) and Mansfield (20 oz.) sizes,
look,” she says. “Sometimes I don’t know
to keep to the 50s theme. They also serve
what to call it, but I just know that I love it.”
“We’re
about
liberation
and customers enjoy it because retro is
hairdo consists of short bangs and
always in style.
“Who doesn’t like dressing cute and serving
bagels, pizza and tacos. The coffee they sell
coffee?” Sarah, a barista at Pinup Express
comes from Anthony Pecan, a New Mexico
Pinup Express Coffee is open Monday
located at 1613 N. Zaragoza, says.
company.
through Friday from 7 a.m. - Noon and from
She’s been working at the drive-thru coffee
Jimmy says weekend ‘Late Night Pizza’
Saturday and Sunday from 10 p.m. - 4 a.m.
shop for about a year. The pink drive-thru
events are their most popular, when they
For more information visit them at Facebook.
is decked out in 50s pinup memorabilia—
stay open until 4 a.m. and serve pizza. They
com/PinupExpressCoffee.
there’s posters of pinup girls, Marilyn Monroe
also get the after-hour crowds after nearby
and the Misfits. Most of it collected by the
businesses close for the night.
5 p.m. - 10 p.m. Late Pizza Nights are Friday,
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Eli Reyes
May, 2014
Pageanting with a Purpose
| By: BRITTANY SAWREY photography by: TOMMIE MORELOS |
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eli reyes
May, 2014
A
s environmental issues take a more prevolent position in the political sphere, they’re also taking center stage in the pageanting world. El Paso is lucky to be home to Miss United States Water, Eli Reyes. At 24 she has already competed from Hawaii to China, and is far from done.
The Miss Earth contestants, who have subcategories in Eco, Water, Fire and Air, advocate for Mother Earth and raise awareness for environmental issues. As Miss Water, Reyes advocates for responsible water use, a platform aided by the fact that the largest land-based distillation plant is located in El Paso. Her journey began in Hawaii last year, where girls from every state came to compete for the title. The contestants traveled together and participated in cleanup projects around the island. Winning the title of Miss Earth United States Water allowed Reyes to travel to China and participate in the Miss Bikini Universe pageant. There for six weeks, she travelled to multiple small cities, learning about the culture of China. Reyes describes the experience as incredibly rewarding, “I really broke out of my comfort zone to challenge myself.” Girls from every country were represented at the pageant, and despite language barriers and different cultures, Reyes said they were unified by their desire to make a difference in the world. When asked who has helped her reach this stage, Reyes response was immediate. “My mom has done so much for me, and she’s been my number one supporter. She’s always there for me no matter what it is, and she’s a big role model for me.” Her list doesn’t end there, though. She names friends David Pulido and Matthew Abraham as encouragers and supporters throughout her modeling and pageanting career. She also credits Evan Skow, the director of the Miss Earth pageant for investing in her and really believing in her potential. “Everyone in the community who has supported me and believed in me,” Reyes adds to her list with enthusiasm, “its been great to represent El Paso.” This July, Reyes will travel to Los Angeles to compete for three different national titles. “I feel that I have what it takes,” she says confidently, “and I feel that it gives me a voice and empowers me to reach out to a variety of different people on a large scope.” When
the role. “I think the most important component of being a pageant girl,
asked what she loves most about being on stage, Reyes replies
and what will make you stand out and win, is having that innate desire
thoughtfully, “I have a lot of fun with it, I feel like I’m myself. You
to make a difference. That’s not something you can buy with money
work so hard throughout the entire year to prepare … when you’re on
or trick yourself into … you either have that desire to help people and
stage it’s a short amount of time that you’re on there, but you really
make a difference, or you don’t.” Reyes’ dedication goes beyond her
have to just enjoy those moments. You’re up there and you know
pageanting; she is currently getting her Masters in Social Work while
that all your hard work has finally paid off, and this is the moment you
competing, and constantly pushing herself to be better in every way.
have to shine and represent everything you’re about.”
“It’s really just about the platform, what you’re fighting for, and what you’re going to do with the crown when you have it. Because you
Although some people may have preconceived ideas of what pageant
could just go off, buy yourself a crown at the store and save yourself
girls are like, Reyes doesn’t believe that there is one type of girl that fits
some trouble, but it’s really about what you’re going to do with it.”
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April, 2014
3 1 0 2 l r i G Summer Stout
| By: MEAGAN KINLEY photography by: DAV ANMED |
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ontinuing our tradition of opening the polls for fans to vote for their favorite City Girl, The City Magazine is proud to announce The City Girl 2013 to be none other than Miss Teen El Paso 2013 herself, the lovely Summer Stout. In the beginning of what we all are sure to be an amazing career, she has competed in three pageants, her first, Miss Teen El Paso 2012 (where she placed in the Top 15), Miss Teen Texas and of course her most recent victory in the Miss Teen El Paso 2013 competition. She has also been featured in the August 2013 issue of The City Magazine alongside Miss El Paso, Alexandria Valenzuela and we are beyond excited to get to highlight her again in this issue. “Being in the magazine was one of the biggest things for me so far this year—I was very happy with the way it turned out,” said Stout. Summer, a native El Pasoan, is not your average teen dream. On top of balancing a rigorous course load at the University of San Diego, she is also in the Alpha Delta Pi Sorority at USD. “It’s been so fun to get involved in the sorority and be a part of all of the traditions,” explained Stout. She also tutors at a local middle school aiding seventh graders in understanding difficult math skills. Volunteering and doing her part is a priority to Summer and she hopes to one day soon go on a mission trip and continue helping those in need. “If I could sum up this past year in one word, it would be blessed. I have been so honored to go and attend the different community service activities and appearances that come with carrying the Miss Teen El Paso crown. One of my favorites was the pediatric oncology fashion show where all the kids got to watch. It was so awesome to see them all smiling,” explained Stout. Summer is also incredibly dedicated to her family. Before transferring to USD in www.thecitymagazineelp.com
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January, she spent her first semester at the University of Texas at El Paso and again while balancing both day and night classes helped her parents with her two younger siblings whenever she had the opportunity. “I love El Paso, being here was good and now that I’m away coming here is always so warm and comforting. El Paso is definitely my home.” Summer s also very interested in majoring in Communications and while she has not chosen a minor, we are sure that success will follow her in any field she chooses. “I am really determined in everything I do, from pageants to school and beyond. When I set my heart to doing something, I give it 100 percent,” said Stout. While she is still enjoying her title as Miss Teen El Paso, Summer has big plans for her future pageant career. “I’m definitely going to continue,” she said with that same look of determination. “I want to do a few more Texas pageants, but lately I’ve even been thinking of setting my sights on San Diego.” Only time will tell what exciting events will unfold in the intriguing life of Summer Stout, but for now we are enthralled to feature her as our The City Girl 2013. 120
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April, 2014
an experience like no other Top of the Chase Building 201 E. Main St., 18th Floor 915.544.1135 • TheElPasoClub.com Marcelo Guerrero for Event Information Bobby Lyons for Membership Information
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THE
| By: JOSH SANCHEZ |
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May, 2014 MODEL: DANIELLE EASLEY OF WILHELMINA BAZAAR
PHOTOGRAPHER: DAV ANMED
CREATIVE DIRECTOR: JOSH SANCHEZ
ASSOCIATE FASHION STYLIST: CASSIE JEAN JOHNSON
HAIR COLOR AND STYLIST:
DAVID PULIDO OF QUARTERMANE SALON MAKE UP ARTIST: CALUDIA CASTILLO
STYLING ASSISTANT: NATALIE ROSALES
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May, 2014
Look found at
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DRESS AND PURSE: TED BAKER SUNGLASSES: PRADA
JEWELRY: JUICY COUTURE
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Look found at
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Look found at
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Look found at
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DRESS: TED BAKER
PURSE: SALVATORE FERRAGAMO JEWELRY: JUICY COUTURE
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November, 2013
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November, 2013
PRODUCED BY WINDY CITY MEDIA PRESENTED BY VISTA DEL SOL CONFERENCE CENTER
HAIRWARS SUPREME SALON TOUR MAY 18, 2014 • CAMINO REAL HOTEL • DOWNTOWN EL PASO Tickets and Info: supremesalon.com or (915) 591-2015 PARTIAL PROCEEDS BENEFITING THE RIO GRANDE CANCER FOUNDATION
Photo Credit - Rafal Wegiel, Edges Salon & Spa
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IN & May, 2014
Step into Spring in Style
WOMEN IN
Single Sole
Ladies you will absolutely love this season because it is just
as much comfort as it is style. Start booking pedi appointments again, because spring is here and there are so many fresh new kicks for you to step into. For a smart casual look, try out the D’Orsay flat, this shoe is a sexy transition from your typical ballet flat but features a more pointed toe and cutout sides. Go with bright hues of color for instant polish or try artsy prints for a fun vibe to punch up a simple outfit. If you’re stepping out for the night, slide into some mule stilettos or wedges. This style of shoe is everything that the chunky heel was last spring, marking it the “IT “ shoe of the season. This backless gem has many different styles and looks best paired with skinny or boyfriend jeans. Be bold and try out Pierre Hardy blue suede or stick to a more standard look and try white, black, or tan leather. To try a supremely relaxed look that is complete with maximum comfort, try
out this springs hottest sandal. The double band over the front of the foot displays a relaxed look but topped with pastel colors or artsy pattern choices, this shoe is no doubt a “must try” trend.
on OUT Stacks stacks on stacks
Lose the heel, this summer there is no better way to embrace the sunshine by looking comfortably effortless. A shortened heel is fine but the sky-high chunky pump can sit pretty in your closet for the time being.
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OUT | By: NATALIE ROSALES |
IN Artsy
From spray cans, to paint brushes to graphite, designers such as Celine, Chanel, and Yves Saint Laurent really sought inspiration from the art world. For this look, leave the minimal at home and go bold with graphic patterns and vivid colors. This new pattern makes us want to dip into a paint can and test out our very own creative ability. Art print can be worn on anything, from accessories to clothes, the paint splattered everywhere and it couldn’t look any better.
OUT Boho head to toe
Last summer the boho chic look was seen everywhere, but we think it’s a tad overdone and should be taken in smaller doses. A little bohemian touch here and there is fine, but floppy hats, long flowy flared-at-thewrist dresses, paired with round sunglasses, and gladiators are looking too costume like. This summer focus on the bohemians neutral color palette with earthy shades of cream, tan and camel paired with rich
WOMEN texture and silky shirts for a luxe tailored look.
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MEN IN
in and out
May, 2014
Tailored shorts with a long sleeve
ME
Shorts on men are not just appropriate for weekends any longer especially if paired with a long sleeve button up or light sweater. If worn appropriately with a jacket, tie, and leather shoes they can even be suitable for office wear. The key to pulling off the look is a trim and tailored pant, and with spring in full session opt for running shorts on your morning jog to ensure that your legs have seen the sun. White legs and white shorts are not in your best interest, but white shorts and an oxford-toned blazer paired with a denim button up are! In order to avoid having your shorts look like the baggy cargo type, make sure that the shorts fit the slim line of your shirt or jacket.
OUT No tank you
The weather is warm, but unless you’re poolside cover those bare arms! Yes, ladies love the muscles but there are better ways to accentuate, rather then showing off in a tank. A tank top can give off many looks, some of which include the “do you even lift bro?” or the “tryingtoo-hard street wear/hipster bro.” Retire the tanks boys, we promise you will be doing yourself a favor.
IN
Go Patriotic with Alternative Chinos
Men, want to know the best alternative to denim? I’ll tell you, it’s the historic chino pant. These lightweight durable pants have served a purpose since the 1840s when British colonials traveled through India and decided to dye their white pants tan to match the dusty terrain. Eventually, every soldier was fitted in this khaki colored pant and it became the standard uniform. After returning from World War II young American soldiers began to sport these pants back home on their college campuses. Due to their durability and comfort, the style has continued to this day and the pant has served as a silent symbol of protection and manhood at its finest. Since then, these classic pants have evolved and although we suggest having at least one pair of the classic khaki color, opt for brighter primary shades for the spring such as yellow, blue, or salmon.
OUT Girlfriend Jeans
Baggy jeans for men used to be an issue, but as of lately I’ve seen men in pants that are uncomfortably tight. Get out of your girlfriends closet and find some pants that fit appropriately. I suggest a relaxed slim fit that tapers to the leg.
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LASHING OUT
The Trends, Tips, and Tricks for Getting the Perfect Set of Falsies | By: MATTHEW ABRAHAM |
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beaut y
May, 2014
TRENDS Ten years ago false eyelashes were considered outdated and tacky, seen only on celebrities such as Tammy Faye Bakker and Ru Paul. However these days, you do not have to be a tele-evangelist or a drag queen to try this now very popular beauty trend. With everyone from the Kardashians to Michelle Obama now wearing fake lashes, this 60s-era beauty staple is now back in big way. Today’s faux lashes are available in a variety of lengths, styles and price points, making them accessible and appropriate for a special occasion or even everyday at the office. Ever since J-Lo stepped on the Oscar red carpet a few years ago fluttering her long dramatic lashes made from real mink hair, lash manufacturers have come out with sets of lashes adorned with rhinestones, feathers, and glitter. Lash makers have also followed the burgeoning trend at the opposite end of the spectrum, creating more natural, everyday options. These lash styles are designed for the modern woman looking to add a simple boost to her own lashes. Makeup artists have long known that the addition of the right false lashes can make a big impact on the face, opening and lifting the eye in a way that is almost impossible to do with any other product in their beauty arsenal.
TIPS Choosing from the wall of lashes that now exists at your local beauty supply store can be overwhelming for the novice lash wearer. Individual false lashes can provide the most versatile and natural option for the lash aficionado. A few expertly placed individual lashes all around the eye, or just cluster of lashes placed in the outer corner of the eye, can create a look that will have visual impact but appear almost undetectable to the casual observer. Individual lashes however can be tricky to apply for the inexperienced wearer and requires not only practice but patience, as application can be very time-consuming. Strip lashes offer a quick and more user-friendly alternative to individual lashes. When choosing a set of strip lashes, it is important to take into consideration your natural eye shape as well as the overall look you wish to achieve with your lashes. In general, a denser, thicker strip of lashes are going to be more dramatic and appear less natural than those with a lighter, sparser configuration. For instance, round eyes can actually appear smaller with a heavier set of lashes, and are best suited with strip that has varying lash lengths, the longest being toward the center of the eye just above the pupil. Almond shaped eyes are generally best emphasized with lashes that gradually increase in length toward the outer corners. For stage, a special event, or photographs you may want to opt for a longer-length false lash, however you want to avoid sky-scraper lashes for everyday wear. Not only can lashes that extend to your eyebrows appear obviously fake, they can be difficult to apply and keep in place without disrupting your eye makeup and leaving a mascara trail around your eye.
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Beyond lash selection, the most intimidating part of the faux lash experience is undoubtedly in the application. Many women have experienced an exasperating session attempting to unsuccessfully wrangle a set lashes on their eyes. Dreams of glamorous, fluttering lashes can quickly be replaced by frustration and a messy lid of dried glue if a few essential tips are not followed when applying false eyelashes. 1. Measure and trim your lash with cuticle scissors. First, after carefully peeling off your strip of lashes from the box, lay the lashes along your lash line and determine where the lashes should be cut. If you have a very large eye, you may only need to trim the false lash strip slightly or not at all. Since your false lashes should never extend beyond your natural lash line, most women will need to trim the lashes a bit more. If applying an entire strip of lashes has proven to be difficult in the past, try cutting the lash strip in half, applying the outer corner half first and then the inner half next, slightly overlapping the two pieces. 2. Bend and shape your lash strip. The most challenging part of false lash application is generally in getting the strip of lashes to easily lay and stay put against the natural lash line. Lashes that are not as thick and that are more pliable at the base will be easier to apply. Human hair lashes are going to be easier to place and maneuver along the lash line than synthetic lashes which, while generally cheaper, are also stiffer and harder to apply. Regardless which strip lash you have selected, taking the time to shape a bend in the strip to be similar to your eye shape will make application significantly less cumbersome. After trimming your lashes, grasp the lash strip gently at each end and bend the strip into a u shape, moving the lash back and forth working a permanent curve in the strip. This will make the lashes a breeze to place along the natural curve of your lash line. 138
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beaut y
3. Use a good eyelash glue sparingly and be sure to let it dry a bit before placing the lashes on your eyes. Never use the tiny bottle of generic glue that comes with the box of lashes and also avoid the temptation to purchase cheap dollar-store eyelash adhesive. Investing in a good-quality adhesive such a DUO eyelash adhesive will assure that your eyelashes go on easily, stay on, and are easy to remove. After you have shaped your lashes, take your adhesive and place a tiny drop the back of your hand or the eyelash box. Holding the lashes with a pair of tweezers, slightly drag your strip at the very edge of the lash line through the glue so that there is barely a trace of the glue on the entire lash. One of the biggest mistakes made in lash application is
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but it takes much less glue to apply a strip of lashes than most think. After the glue is applied wait about 15 seconds for the glue to begin to dry and become tacky before attempting to place it on your eye, otherwise the lash will slip around and not stay in place. Next place the strip right on top of your own lashes as close to the natural lash line as possible. If you place the lashes on your lid or there is a large space between your false lash and your natural lash line, gently push the strip toward your lash line with your tweezers to try to close this gap. You can always fill in this gap with a bit of eyeliner or dark shadow if you don’t get it lay just right the first time. With false eyelashes increasingly popping up on magazines, runways and celebrities all over the globe the last five years, this is one beauty trend is that appears not be going anywhere anytime soon. Even the most conservative and formerly skeptical beauty junkies have embraced false eyelashes and their ability to boost and brighten the eye. With a little a practice, patience and bit of courage you may find applying your favorite set of false lashes downright addictive.
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Photo by: Rafal Wegiel, Edges Salon & Spa
Hair Wars
Photo by: Pixyst
| By: VALENTIN SANDOVAL |
Supreme Salon Tour
Coming to El Paso
R
eality television has taken over
had a flavor for the fresh and authentic. Now
The other format we’re seeing is a blending of
the market. It’s a far cry from
we can create genres based off of the variety
reality TV with game show like competition.
MTV’s first couple of seasons
of shows out there, for example: “Jersey
This is a formula that is suspenseful, engaging,
of the “Real World” with
Shore,”
insightful, and downright entertaining. You
characters like Pedro and Puck-
“The Bachelor,” to name a few.
-these shows were riveting and
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“The
Kardashians,”
“Survivor,”
create a layout, rules, celebrity hosts, and judges. Whatever the subject matter maybe 141
H A I R WA R S
May, 2014
Photo by: David Kelley
Photo by: Pixyst is relative, you have the layout and you drop
of Moline’s booming career. He’s acquired
peer that many confused him with, celebrity
in the ingredients for a successful show.
his vision and sensibility after 15 years in
finalist Ben Mollin as seen on the BRAVO
the business. Moline tells me how in the
television show “Shear Genius.” Moline
In this case, the key ingredient is hair. Yes,
entertainment industry, there are many
thought his style and approach to hair were
hair. It makes perfect sense. Hair Wars is
avenues that one can take to spread out
genius. He’s a respected educator in the
a nationally recognized salon competition
and learn new techniques to getting one’s
industry. So he felt that the next inevitable
where top local salons in each region have
product or idea into the limelight. Moline
step was to have him be the host of Hair
the opportunity to showcase their artistic
gained his experience in his hometown of
Wars. Other key players that have helped
side by featuring one-of-a-kind, extravagant,
Chicago, where his primary responsibilities
make Hair Wars a success are Jessica
creations down the runway. I asked inventor,
included promoter/producer role at Circus,
Bustamante and Chris Sanchez.
Executive Producer Benjamin Moline to
the largest, most prestigious nightclub in
clarify what this extravaganza is:
Chicago. The idea was birthed while coming
Their headquarters are located in Chicago
up with concepts for entertaining shows that
while he lives in Scottsdale, Arizona. The
would bring in massive crowds.
Supreme Salon Tour travels through Chicago,
“Our goal is to find the best salons, stylists, makeup
artists,
models,
Las Vegas, Los Angeles, Vancouver, Calgary,
accessories,
costuming, fashion lines, and designers
“I knew I needed to come up with a mega
and El Paso. The national final is in Vegas
in the industry to compete in the ultimate
idea for a mega club. Hair and fashion were
and the world finals are held in Scottsdale.
runway competition.”
such an obvious pairing for me. That’s where
Celebrity,
it all started. That’s how this became the
professionals encompass this group of
Super Bowl of hair.”
trendsetting individuals that come together
Benjamin Moline is a modern day linchpin,
and
beauty
industry
to highlight the best of the best within their
a dream maker of sorts. I thought it very interesting when he called himself a snow
The idea then morphed into a project that
falcon of the younger, faster breed. And the
then, grew off into Las Vegas and Los
trail to his flight is seen clearly in the skies
Angeles. One of Moline’s inspirations was a
142
fashion
highly energetic field.
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May, 2014
H A I R WA R S
beauty THE
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prestige to every stop on the tour.” It’s the largest runway hair and fashion show Some of the previous judges include: Angela
in the world, and it’s coming to El Paso.
Avorio, Director of Education for Ben Mollin Hair Education; Rene Jimenez Celebrity Hair
According to Moline, this kind of event assists
and Makeup Artist featured on Life and Style
in shortening the gap between quality of life
Magazine; Joey Galon, Reality TV Personality,
found in major American cities. According to
Fashion Designer, and Pageant Coach, and
Moline, El Paso is growing and needs to be
AK Mack, Director of Education at the Toni &
treated as such.
Guy Academy. The show has a successful sizzler reel and is The judges select the top two salons for a
a hot item in Los Angeles, with six different
trophy, cash, prizes, and the opportunity to
offers. The future plans are going to Miami,
move with networking. They then get to move
Los Angeles, and Mexico. Hair Wars will then
onto the world finals held every two years.
take over an entire resort for the weekend. So in the near future expect to see a Hair
To say winning this competition is prestigious
Wars TV show. Benjamin Moline’s passion
would be a gross understatement.
for hair, fashion, and entertainment has now become the rest of the world’s love affair.
“We’ve had many sponsors: every major brand, hair products or tools, everything down to Fiat cars, many local and regional www.thecitymagazineelp.com
143
eauty B
May, 2014
t s a e B is the
MARTINEZ, | By: PATRICK L. N, B.S. NU TRITIO AINER, TR S ES CERTIFIED FITN S ES TN CERTIFIED FI | H AC CO N NU TRITIO
144
t ’ n d l u o h s s ie Why lad o t s e m o c it be shy when . s t u o k r o w h toug
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fitness
May, 2014
I
I t
get it. Zumba, Yoga, and Pilates are fun, low impact, and trendy. As a matter of fact, I love Zumba, Yoga, and Pilates myself and they are great when incorporated with strength training. They maintain flexibility, which helps to prevent injuries. But, and I do mean “but,” they should not be the only forms of physical activities women should focus on. There is so much more out there for women. You
just have to find what you like and believe in yourself.
I’m not suggesting that all women should become power lifters or body builders. Heck, I’m not even saying you should be a figure competitor. What I am saying is that you need to incorporate some strength training and some ridiculously challenging conditioning work. I don’t care if it’s Cross Fit, gymnastics, pole fitness, or regular weight lifting. I only care that you do something out of your norm. The great thing about Yoga pants is that they can be worn while working out and not just in the Yoga studio. All of my clients are women. Their ages range from early 20s to late 60s. While the amount of weight and intensity is adjusted based on their fitness level and strength, my clients know that when they show up for their session, they are going to work. I am going to push them to their limit and make them feel the workout. You can ask any of them, whether or not I earn my paycheck and they will tell you that I do. This is a results driven industry and if I don’t provide results, I don’t put food on the table. So whether I’m training a mixed martial artist or a stay-at-home mother of four, I expect and demand 100% effort in the gym. Some clients that I have encountered have expressed concerns about becoming “too bulky” or “too manly.” They were not wrong for expressing their concerns. They were just misinformed on what exactly strength training and conditioning
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fitness
May, 2014
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146
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can do for their physique. Once I get them
because you will eventually plateau. Whether
started with the workout and explain what
it’s a weight loss plateau or a strength
the exercise is working on and how it will
plateau, your body will become accustomed
help them keep their sexy feminine physique,
to what you’ve been doing. Make your body
they feel more at ease. So, bottom line, if
work for you.
you’re fortunate enough to have a trainer, tell them exactly what your goals are. I would
So if you don’t already go to a gym, I suggest
hope that your trainers know exactly what
you find one. You may or may not decide to
needs to be done in order to help you achieve
hire a trainer, but you must decide to add
your goals.
strength and conditioning into your workouts. Being strong does not necessarily mean
So, don’t be afraid to try something new.
being bulky. Being strong means that you
Don’t stop going to Zumba, Yoga, or Pilates.
can maintain and control your body weight.
In fact, I encourage that you continue to do
Being strong also helps prevent injuries. So
so. But when you’re not doing the dolphin
if you’re an active mom who works, cooks,
pose, do some deadlifts, pushups, pull ups,
cleans, takes care of the kids and still finds
agility ladder drills, burpees, bench press,
time to give the hubby some attention,
squats, etc. Incorporate some high intensity
then you definitely need some strength and
interval training. Keep your body guessing.
conditioning. Believe me, it’s only for your
Don’t get comfortable with what you’re doing
benefit and your body will thank you for it. www.thecitymagazineelp.com
May, 2014
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147
May, 2014
Wine & FAT | By: VIC POULOS |
148
Wine
May, 2014
are significantly less overweight than their
at McDonald’s – a place that can be easily
American counterparts. According to the
compared around the world. According to
Center for Disease Control (CDC), in 2012,
the travel website, TravelRelapse.com, up
28 states had an obesity prevalence of 25 to
until a few years ago the smallest American
29.9 percent, and 13 states had an obesity
size cup (excluding the kid’s meal) was
prevalence of 30 percent or higher, meaning
bigger than the largest European cup. The
1 in 4 people are obese in most parts of
actual plates Europeans use are also typically
the country. In 2010, the CDC challenged
smaller than plates in America, making meals
the country with a program called “Healthy
appear larger and more filling.
People 2010.” The objective was to reduce the prevalence of obesity to less than 15
Another huge difference between Europe
percent. According to the CDC, every single
and America is that American cities were built
state failed to meet the goal.
with the car in mind, while most European cities were designed for walking. In America,
P asta,
pizza,
You might not find that surprising, but you
you are practically required to own a car,
may be surprised to hear that Europe is right
while in most major European cities, you can
at the top competing with America for first
easily get where you need to go by walking
place in obesity rates. According to a report
and taking other forms of transportation that
issued by the Organization for Economic
require more effort.
Co-operation
bread,
chocolate,
cheese, and of course, lots and lots
and
Development
out
of
Paris, more than half of European adults
So while there are some key differences, it
are overweight or obese, and obesity rates
turns out that we’re not so different after all.
have doubled in the past 20 years for the 27
Whether it’s the U.S. or Europe, the obesity
member states of the European Union.
epidemic is severe, and it’s important that we all balance that great pasta and wine with
of wine. And more wine! These are just some of the things I enjoy when I travel –
Here’s where the key differences lie - there
particularly to Europe. And boy, do I really
are significant differences in portion sizes
enjoy them – by the time I get back home, I
between the United States and Europe.
usually feel like I’ve gained about 10 lbs.
According to several studies, including one by the American Society for Clinical Nutrition,
Why is it then, that whenever I’m in Paris, France
meals in the U.S. are on average about
or Florence, Italy, I don’t see many overweight
twice the size of meals in Europe. Just look
a little more salad and vegetables!
Salud! VIC POULOS
Owner, Zin Valle Vineyards
people? How does everyone appear to be in better shape in these places that serve the best food and wine in the world? European’s consumption of wine far outdistances the US consumption of wine per person and lets face it – wine does contain alcohol and calories. It turns out that there are a few reasons for this phenomenon, but first, let’s define obesity. Obesity is defined as having a body mass index, or BMI, greater than 30 for an adult and one at or above the 95th percentile compared to others of the same gender and age for children. First, it’s simply a myth that Europeans
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May, 2014
www.soffiawardy.com
Hospitality | By: SOFFIA WARDY |
150
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May, 2014
T h e g i f t o f h o s p i ta l i t y
Luxury hotels do a great job of making their guests feel welcome. Some guests find that feeling in the friendly staff, others in the scent of fresh flowers in the common areas and others in the quality of the amenities. There is however nothing more wonderful than feeling welcome in someone’s home.
A
great host/hostess makes you feel comfortable from the minute you walk through the door, you get the feeling that they are very excited to have you as a guest. From fresh flowers to a seasonal bowl
of fruit just waiting to be plucked and enjoyed to the neverending cheese and olive platters, delicious wines, stocked gourmet pantry delicacies and filled candy dishes, the care and preparation for your arrival is evident. Step into your guest room, and it feels like you’ve hit the hospitality lottery. A wrapped gift left on the bed—inside you might find a beautiful candle, a wonderful book, or a box of delicious specialty teas. There are more fresh flowers, a fancy bottle of water, irresistible chocolates, the latest magazines (with pages earmarked and with notes like, “I thought you’d like this story about…”). Make it personal! Place your favorite new beauty products in the bathroom, to create a spa experience.
What makes a great hostess? The first few minutes when someone comes into your home sets the tone for the whole weekend. Have lots of munchies out and at the ready to signal guests that they can be casual and make themselves at home. You want your guests to know they can let their hair down for the weekend. As for gifts, start with a hand-written note left in your guest’s room. When people make the effort to get on an airplane or in www.thecitymagazineelp.com
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May, 2014
a car to come visit, it’s nice to let them know that you’re putting everything aside to enjoy this special time together. Try to make the items you leave out in a guest room as specific to the person as possible. For example, if your guest is fluent in Italian,
Conquer Your Financial Future.
give a book of Italian poetry or current Italian magazines from the local newsstand. Does your guest have a particular fondness for chocolates or French macaroons? Seek out the newest bonbons from an up-and-coming chocolatier or local bakery. Men love “beauty” items too. Look for an old-fashioned shaving kit with a brush and unusual razor or specialty toothpaste and a fancy toothbrush. Pajamas and cozy slippers during colder months are always a hit.
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If you know your guest’s tastes and special interests, new music and books are always www.thecitymagazineelp.com
appropriate. Or simply sharing your favorites can be
time together at the table not over the stove.
a nice way to introduce them to something new.
Share recent discoveries with your guests … It doesn’t have to be anything major: Even
When it comes to food, it’s nice (not to
introducing them to something as simple as
mention easier on you) to plan meals and
your favorite new ice cream will create fun
snacks ahead so that they can easily be pulled
moments and memories.
out and served after a day of sightseeing. If
www.thecitymagazineelp.com
you are staying in to share a special meal
Does your guest love fashion? Books about
together, try to keep the recipes simple but
his/her favorite designers as well as luxury
delicious so that the emphasis is on your
beauty items are always a treat.
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May, 2014
Chocolate, Martinis and Finding the Goddess in Each of Us | By: MICHELLE CROMER |
I was invited to join a wonder women’s circle that was all about celebrating the divine feminine. We were asked to bring something to the circle to share with the other women. Some brought crystals, there were some tribal beads, and one woman brought drums and danced a ceremonial Native American rave. I brought chocolate and martinis. 154
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May, 2014
T
SPIRITUALIT Y
he discussions were powerful, the women
Kali - represented by the color red and our root chakra. If your self-confidence
were intelligent, the snacks were delicious –
is under threat, her energy can help. According to ancient Hindu tradition, Kali
well, mine were. I worked to release my uptight
is the mother of all of us. She possesses strong will power and penetrative
notions about religious purity and loosened up
insight. She can guide you to a new fulfilling path.
my bonds of perception. I turned up my spiritual
iPod and allowed my divine stagnation to take a break.
Hathor - represented by the color orange and the womb chakra or lower abdomen. Hathor was revered as the ancient Queen of Heaven, the patron of
Understanding goddess energy within each of us can
dancers, the mother of gypsies and the generator of radiant power. She is a
help us discover our own innate gifts and abilities. It
shape-shifter and has the ability to transform your confidence and accept change.
might even lead to a new path of self-discovery. Pele - represented by the color yellow and our solar plexus chakra, our personal See if you can relate to any of these spiritual gals:
power. Pele is said to be the Hawaiian goddess whose spirit dwells inside the largest active volcano in Hawaii. This energy helps us to be energetic, recharge and revitalize. Pele helps us cut through denial and channel our energy in a rewarding way. Kuna Yin - represented by the color green or pink and the heart chakra. Kuan Yin energy can help with issues of self-acceptance that prevent a sense of peace and balance. The Chinese goddess of love and compassion, Kuan Yin is a complex energy full of unconditional love. She reminds us to look after ourselves. Athena - represented by light blue and our throat chakra which is related to communication, creativity and healing. Athena was a beautiful warrior queen who stood guard over the ancient city of Athens. Her energy encourages us to have a no fear attitude, to be tough, independent and resourceful, but to not be afraid to ask and accept help when needed. Isis - represented by indigo and our third eye chakra. This energy helps you see both physically and intuitively and to see all things clearly. Isis, the Egyptian high priestess ruled with love and patience. Her energy tells us to gather strength, trust our inner wisdom, which will lead us in the right direction. Nuit - represented by purple and our crown chakra, brings in the energy of understanding, cosmic consciousness, and enlightenment. To access deep understanding, self-knowledge, and wisdom, use Nuit. This Egyptian goddess is the bridge between heaven and earth. She represents universal oneness, bliss and love. I left the women’s circle feeling sassy and sacred and I learned a great deal about goddess energy, which I didn’t even know existed. Now in moments of panic and in the face of unending need, I think about the characteristics of these goddesses, and I know that there is a reservoir of clarity and strength somewhere deep inside of me. Fortunately, we all have an inner goddess, ready to help us, eager to share her wisdom. To find her, slow down, get quiet, go within. You will feel her in your heart, and your gut, in your blood and in your bones. Spend time connecting with her. She may share with you ways to find your inner compass, or tell you how to create the life you want. You can connect with her anytime you want to, whenever you need to. Her wisdom is your wisdom. If you still can’t find her, offer up some chocolate and a martini that always seems to help me. 155
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“Building a Lasting Foundation for the Future.”
l o o h c S S t. C h lement’s Paris
Giving Coordinator. This manifests itself in the quality education the teachers and faculty
St. Clement’s Parish School got its start in
and develop a love for learning, to acquire
bring to their classrooms. With small class
the basement of the Church of Saint Clement
confidence in their abilities and talents and
sizes, students are given individual attention
in 1958. Through continued excellence and
to develop successful social skills for lifelong
and numerous opportunities for team building
a lot of faith, the school has slowly evolved,
learning,” explained Vanessa Ruiz, Director
and collaborative learning. St. Clement’s
carrying with it the cherished values and
of Admissions.
also prides itself on its math and science programs that fuse today’s competitive
tradition it began with 56 years ago. Today the school’s beautiful campus rests in Central
On top of a strong sense of respect for all
technology into the classroom. With a state-
El Paso serving as a beacon of promise to
students, the school also bolsters a rigorous and
of-the-art Mac and PC lab, students are given
its parents and students. Their mission is
competitive academic curriculum that integrates
the opportunity to learn the ins and outs of
within a nurturing Christian environment;
learning for optimal social and emotional growth.
programming software and robotics.
child’s academic, spiritual, moral, artistic,
“These students are not just learning skills
Through this carefully planned curriculum,
physical,
St. Clement’s Parish School promotes each “We
that will get them through their education,
the students at St. Clement’s truly excel.
strongly believe in creating an environment
they’re actually walking away with tools that
The faculty and staff know how to teach self-
that encourages, stimulates, inspires and
will give them life long learning skills that will
challenges our students. We provide the
help and empower them as they go on to
opportunity and support for students to grow
engage in society,” said Jolene Keipp, Annual
and
intellectual
158 | SPECIAL ADVERTISING
growth.
By: MEAGAN KINLEY photographed by: ROBERT CORRAL
learning skills that enable each student to create and hit their academic goals. “These kids are like-minded, they push and motivate
Outside of academics, St. Clement’s also
provide the highest quality education to our
each other to succeed—it’s truly inspiring to
encourages their students to reach out to
students,” said Ruiz. “This is an investment
watch,” recalled Keipp.
the community. The mission of outreach
into the lives of your children that will yield
is to raise community awareness through
positive results for years to come.”
Combining this curriculum with the CATS
hands-on involvement, showing students
Program (Community Connections in Active
that they are part of a bigger unit outside of
St. Clement’s Parish School
Advisories for Teachers and Students), a
their families, their school -- and ultimately
Vanessa Ruiz,
program designed to act as a mentoring
themselves. The school also offers a full
Director of Admissions
ground to integrate social learning, this extra
range of extra curricular activities and sports
600 Montana
program serves to further promote team
like basketball, football, volleyball, cross
El Paso, TX 79902
building and community awareness. Through
country, and fencing.
(915) 533-4248 stclements.org
CATS students and parents are educated on current topics like social media etiquette,
Altogether, St. Clement’s offers the El
drug awareness, and beyond.
Paso community a quality, well-rounded education that goes beyond any other private institution in the region. “We do all we can to
SPECIAL ADVERTISING | 159
“We strive to bring families closer together by creating an experience worth repeating.”
Jungle Jaks
so supportive, and hopes to expand by franchising its El Paso pilot concept. Jungle
Upon realizing the lack of local entertainment
With an all-inclusive space, Cohen mentions
Jaks also collaborates with most schools, as
options for small children to enjoy, Olivier &
the strategically designed fast-casual dining
well as local business and the City to promote
Toni Cohen moved from Miami to El Paso and
menu for parents and kids to enjoy. Jungle
special events and group sales. Jungle Jaks
decided to create Jungle Jaks. The Cohen’s
Jaks’ newest attraction, Zero Shock Stunt
strives to “bring families closer together by
concept was to “provide a place where the
Jump is a thrilling and safe activity where
creating an experience worth repeating.”
kids (crawlers to 11 years old) can interact with
kids jump from a somewhat eight-foot
other kids and also with their parents while hav-
platform onto a huge airbag. Over the past
Olivier Cohen, Owner / Operator
ing fun.” The 12,000-square-foot facility offers
couple of weeks this attraction has become
Jungle Jaks
a unique and fun mix of indoor activities such
one of the most popular, it was definitely a
1700 Zaragoza - Suite 145
as Bumper Boats, Go Karts, 3,000-square-foot
great addition and investment. Jungle Jaks is
El Paso, TX 79936
Foam Factory with giant slides, coconut tree
celebrating its 4th anniversary and has built
Office: (915) 856-3763
climbing, Spider Ladder, Arts & Crafts and
a strong quality reputation creating a FUN,
Cell.: (915) 309 00 19
Modeling Studio Stations and much more.
SAFE, CLEAN and FRIENDLY environment
E-mail: olivier@junglejaksfun.com
Jungle Jaks maintains an intimate space and
for El Paso families.
Visit us @ www.junglejaksfun.com
design so parents can easily spot a child having fun. Everyone is given a matching wristband
Cohen and Jungle Jaks is extremely thankful
and can’t check out without it.
towards the community of El Paso for being
160 | SPECIAL ADVERTISING
By: LAURA WERTHMANN photographed by: TOMMIE MORELOS
“We believe success is based most of all on impacting people’s lives in a positive way and truly giving them the help and customer care they deserve.”
Smile C
Smile Center for Kids is the far east side’s newest locally owned and operated open bay
enter for Kids
dental office that provides conventional dental
began working for the Indian Health Service
Outside of giving 100% to their family and
service to children by offering a safe, comfortable
by providing dental care to the Navajo Indian
budding business, the Wilsons are involved in
environment and quality patient care.
population. It was in New Mexico where they
community outreach by educating El Pasoans
fell in love with the Southwest and decided
on different aspects of dental health and
Smile Center for Kids was opened by Dr.
to follow their dream of eventually owning
the importance of regular dental visits. “We
Greg Wilson in December 2013. Dr. Tiffanie
their own dental office.
want to serve the community and make a difference in and outside the office. We have
S. Wilson, Greg’s wife, recently joined the practice, which they now manage and
Today, Smile Center for Kids is a faith-based
a passion for children and we strive to give
operate together.
clinic with a new facility that is complete with
each of our patients a positive experience
the latest in dental technology, overhanging TV’s
they will never forget,” said Dr. Greg Wilson.
Greg and Tiffanie met while completing dental
for patient enjoyment, a jungle gym and video
school at the University of Mississippi. After
games in the waiting area. But most importantly,
Dr. Robert G. Wilson & Dr. Tiffanie S. Wilson
completing school and marrying, the Wilsons
Smile Center for Kids offers children and their
Smile Center for Kids
moved to Gallup, New Mexico in 2004 and
parents the assurance that any procedure
12801 B Edgemere Blvd., Suite 112
completed will be done with their children’s
El Paso, Texas 79938
health and comfort as the first priority.
Office (915) 493-6310 Fax (915) 493-6316 smilecenterforkids@yahoo.com smilecenterforkids.com
By: MEAGAN KINLEY photographed by: ROBERT CORRAL
SPECIAL ADVERTISING | 161
May, 2014
Kids Excel El Paso s t n e s e r p
Mathematical Mystery Tour Coming to El Paso June 6 | By: MEAGAN KINLEY photography by: RAUL MARTINEZ |
162
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May, 2014
Betsy Tinajera Artistic Director
Lori De Leon Rey Associate Artistic Director
“… Everything is emotional … If you want a child to learn something, engage their emotions. Get them all excited. Get them thrilled with learning. Dance is an emotional doorway into the heart and mind, the best single way of engaging a child to discover themselves.” — Jasques d’Amboise, Founder of the National Dance Institute
I www.thecitymagazineelp.com
n October of 2004, Kids Excel El Paso (KEEP)
KEEP has lived to fulfill many of its goals and grown
began as a pilot program encompassing 280
each year to meet the community’s needs for this
children from three of El Paso’s public elementary
innovative and dynamic arts education outreach.
schools. Building off the foundation that Jacques
Today Kids Excel El Paso continues to challenge 4th
d’Amboise started when he founded the
graders to think outside the box, and use their bodies
National Dance Institute (NDI) in 1976, KEEP’s vision
to create art that inspires them to stay out of trouble
and mission is to “help children develop discipline,
by helping them maintain a positive self-esteem. “It’s
a standard of excellence, and self-confidence that
not only the GT student or the straight A student that
will positively impact their education and all aspects
benefits from KEEP . . . It’s the at-risk child or the
of their lives-one dance step at a time!” Since 2004,
child who has issues at home or the child with limited 163
kids excel
May, 2014
mental or physical ability. These classes provide unlimited opportunities and a positive mentoring relationship for every single child,” said Betsy Tinajero, Artistic Director for Kids Excel El Paso. Through the years, KEEP has touched the lives of more than 2,800 fourth grade students in 30 elementary schools all over the city. “The amazing thing about this work is that, as a teacher, you are able to witness a powerful transformation. Over the course of a year, we see children blossom and grow as they develop confidence and self esteem. Kids Excel is not just an ‘arts’ experience. It’s a life experience,” explained Tinajero. “The arts play a critical role in the learning process. Studies show they help children retain information and improve academic performance.” Kids Excel is inclusive to every child and incorporates the NDI pedagogy while also fusing the Texas TEKS curriculum points so the time spent learning these activities is part of real curriculum time. The learning goals the kids cover go right along with the objectives their teachers are hitting during their core class time, this enables full, integrated learning. For example, during
164
May, 2014 practice the Kids Excel instructors teach the children sign language and call and response motions so that sometimes instructors can teach an entire class in silence. This is great because the kids pick up applicable skills that will serve them in the classroom and beyond. “One of the cornerstones of Kids Excel class is live music, which makes the classes even more interactive. Each class is taught by an instructor and musician/piano accompanist, and the students absolutely love the pianists. They inspire every day and serve as positive role models for so many,” said Tinajero. To raise funds for this great cause, every year Kids Excel puts on an event to showcase the learning goals and achievement the kids have worked on all year round. This year, the event is Mathematical Mystery Tour and the program is themed around merging dance and math together for higher learning. 400 students from Tippin, Davenport, Clardy and Herrera Elementary Schools will be performing for all of El Paso to see. The event is also a Paseo Del Norte Challenge Fund Event and a ticket will include admission to the pre-show reception, the show itself, and a post-program VIP dance party. Additional tickets are also on sale for the Kids Excel El Paso Gala. “Kids
Excel
differently
enables
about
children
social
to
studies,
think math,
science, and language arts, because they are learning it in a different way ... through dance and music,” said Tinajero. The 2014 Kids Excel Mathematical Mystery Tour is June 6 at the Plaza Theatre in Downtown El Paso. This will be one event you do not want to miss, get your tickets today and support education and the arts for hundred of children here in El Paso!
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165
May, 2014
Take Step
s to
C h p ildr e e K en | By: ROBIN NILAND |
166
Saf e www.thecitymagazineelp.com
Pa r e n t i n g
May, 2014 approach
or guardians still need to keep their eyes on
Always stay within arms reach of a non-
and children start looking
their children while they are swimming.”
swimmer even if they are wearing a life vest.
forward to playful summer
Many parents let their guard down once their
days, it is time for parents,
children learn how to swim, but Klingstedt
Children can be at risk around pools even
grandparents, and others
urges parents not to relax too much: “Anyone,
when not swimming. All toys, noodles, rafts,
who have children in
even an advanced/experienced swimmer,
etc. should be removed from the pool when
their lives to renew
can encounter circumstances that might lead
not in use. Children can lose their balance
their
to
to drowning. However, knowing what to do if
and fall in while reaching for something in the
the importance of water safety. Every year,
you fall in a pool, or how to help a swimmer
pool. A four-sided fence and/or pool cover or
thousands of people lose their lives to
in distress without endangering yourself can
net specifically designed to protect children
unintentional drowning accidents. According
make the difference between being safe
from accidental falls should be installed
to the Centers for Disease Control, 1 in 5
around water and a potential for trouble.”
around a home pool. However, children can
of these deaths are children 14 or younger,
Parents can watch for signs of exhaustion,
quickly learn to climb fences or open locks
and preschoolers ages 1-4 have the highest
cramps, or other distress that might not
and these precautions cannot substitute
drowning rates. Most drownings and near
immediately be noticed by a lifeguard and
for close supervision or guarantee a child’s
drownings happen in residential pools.
intervene before trouble occurs.
safety at all times.
Whether your home has a swimming pool,
inflatable or above-ground pool, hot tub, or
Summer pool parties can pose several
Learning to swim is an exciting step in a
pond, or if you will be visiting a community or
threats to a child’s safety as well. In a
child’s life, and a very important part of
municipal facility, it is important that parents
situation where many adults are in or around
becoming water safe. Speak with your
and care givers be vigilant about water safety
the pool, it is possible for a parent to think
pediatrician about the appropriate time to
and take steps to protect children from a
someone else is watching the child. Your
begin swim lessons and seek out a program
potentially life-threatening situation.
view of the swimmers in the pool can be
that is taught by certified lifeguards who are
obstructed by too many inflatable toys, as
trained in CPR. There are three local chapters
well as people splashing and make it
of the American Red Cross that offer
s
warm
days
commitment
d n u o r A
certification in First Aid/CPR/AED as
Kerstin Klingstedt, American Red Cross well as lifeguarding classes. El Paso Parks
Water Safety Instructor and Executive Director of the Aquanauts Swim Program,
difficult to distinguish between a
and Recreation, the YWCA and YMCA,
has helped hundreds of children learn
child who is playing and one who is in
UTEP, and several privately run pools
to swim, and encourages parents to be
distress. Alcohol can slow reaction time,
offer private and group swim classes for
constantly aware of their children in any pool
impair vision, and hinder judgment, so adults
children and adults. Age-appropriate swim
situation. She says, “Children should never
who are responsible for a child should NEVER
training, well-maintained and protected
be allowed around a pool without an adult
drink alcohol while the child swims. Finally,
pools, and constant parental supervision
who is able to swim watching them. Even if
parents should not rely on flotation devices
are three important steps to safe – and fun
you are at a pool that has lifeguards, parents
to keep a child safe while playing in the water.
– Summer swimming.
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167
! r e m m u S r o f t u O s ’ l o Scho N | By: JOLE
E REZA K
EIPP |
. anicking p e r a s ent , and par g in tudents k s in d r n h a s k are brea eir , shorts summer g r o in f is r g f for th in is s ie l a y e e r r l u e c f r r h o l be The me ee ited sig Paso wil n u l E nts agr a s e s t r o u a r p o c l a l g s t tin st a School d. Almo , are le r e a g h a eep them e k t b a o h t n a w y c it r e ess ool no mat t o a nec s Hey, sch l . a n ideal so is io t t e a o r r e n e h is ib t l g ut mes break b ideo ga upcomin d. v is h o t t d d e e rderlan ne lu o g s B t r e n o h e e t d t in nl ou that stu inside o hrough s t r d u e o r h e f of nding ps being m busy. Spe a c r e umm e some s r a 168 e r e h
!
May, 2014
UTEP Beginning Reading Programs
El Paso Art Museum
Whether it’s getting a head start for Kindergarten or brushing up on the
Your kids can spend the summer engrossed in creativity at the
basics with your 10-year-old this reading camp will help your children
El Paso Museum of Art camps including creating mixed media
retain the reading skills they worked hard on during the school year.
pieces, replicating the El Paso scenery using chalk and pastels
This reading readiness course is offered at the UTEP campus and in
and constructing finger and hand puppets. The camps begin in
the Eastside Vista Ysleta United Methodist Church. The classes begin
June and are open to children from 6-years-old and up. Look into
in June and will help develop the skills, comprehension and motivation
the Draw, Cartoon and Comic camp where students will have the
for students in Kindergarten through fifth grade. For more information
opportunity to explore cartooning and anime techniques! Visit the
call (800) 978-3532.
El Paso Art Museum website or call (915) 532-1707 to register.
Tasty Tempting Treats by Tanya Encourage your child’s inner pastry chef with this fun and exclusive camp! Learn to decorate cakes, make Rice Krispy sculptures, jello aquariums, sugar flowers, pulled taffy and more. The camp is August 4-15th Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays with a Parent Tea Party given once the course has been completed. Students’ ages 6-9 are from 12:00 to 2:00 pm and ages 10-14 begin at 3:305:30 pm. The camp is held at the Von Mittenwald home in the Upper Valley. Contact Tanya at tanyamgt@gmail.com or (714) 5537373 by August 1 to enroll.
I Painted That Social Art The exciting atmosphere at the I Painted That art studio is an ideal way for your children to socialize and meet new friends in a cool guided setting. Students will receive step-by-step art tutorials by local artists, receive a free camp T-shirt and the artwork is yours to keep! Camps run June through July, Mondays through Fridays and are offered at both East and West locations. Call (915) 760-6541 or email info@Ipaintedthat.com.
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169
May, 2014
El Paso Exploreum Interested in Space? There’s a camp for that! Check out the Space Exploration camp or try out the Robotics camp at the El Paso Exploreum . “What Will You Be When You Grow Up?” is a brand new camp that’s in high demand. Campers will visit a fire station and get an in-depth look at the responsibilities that come with wearing the yellow jackets. They’ll receive a tutorial on producing plays and what happens behind the stage. The coolest adventure will come when they visit the new Chihuahuas stadium and get a feel for a career in professional athletics. Sessions begin June 23rd and run from 9:00 am to noon and 1:00 to 4:00 pm. Visit www.elpasoexploreum.com/camps/. Summer programs are one of the best ways to foster new talents and interests while expanding your child’s social circle. Look into the broad variety of summer programs offered through out El Paso. If your children look forward to attending the class it’ll be less stressful and more enjoyable for both of you.
CreaTECH Code Computer Camp Introducing children to technology by creating, rather than using, is the goal at CreaTECH Code. Their fun and exciting summer camp programs can take your children to different worlds and introduce them to the world of computer programming by learning how to create their own App for smart devices, or create their own 3D game, or even more exciting; learn the fundamentals of Java™ coding to create a Minecraft © Mod and change or add to the game different elements. With any of these three camps, kids will be able to start projects from scratch and take home with them a finished product they can show their family and friends. Campers do not need to know Java or any other programming skills. This is intended to be an introduction to the world of coding, logic, and computer science. Classes are forming now and will have a very limited amount of space. The cost per class is normally $495 but they are introducing these courses over the summer at a special rate of $395 per class and will also offer discounts for multiple sessions or additional siblings. Camps run one full week with either morning (8-12:00) or afternoon (1-5:00) sessions. Classes will be held at 550 S. Mesa Hills Suite E-4 and are open to children age 8 to 18. Session dates and age ranges vary and can be found at www.CreaTECHcode.com or on 170
Facebook at facebook.com/CreaTECHcode.
May, 2014
226 Cincinatti El Paso, TX 79902 915-532-2390 www.thecitymagazineelp.com
171
The
May, 2014
o r t As d l i Ch PS CE T H E | By: GRA
A YCHIC L
DY |
Everyone can agree that each and every child is talented, special, and unique in their own way, but did you ever think that maybe the stars had some influence on their traits and personality too? Below are some of the characteristics of how astrology influences each child’s abilities.
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May, 2014
ARIES (March 21~April 19)
LEO (July 23~August 22)
SAGITTARIUS
Aries children are daring, just like the Ram,
Lion children are outgoing, actors, singers,
(November 22~December 21)
they take charge, have a very strong will, and
dramatic, like the spotlight on them, true
The Archer child is full of enthusiasm, high spirits,
won’t take ‘No’ for an answer. When mad,
entertainers, creative, strong, proud, leaders,
playful, with unique laughs and fun. Their honesty
they often throw tantrums.
and self-confident.
and directness can be a breath of fresh air.
TAURUS (April 20~May 20)
VIRGO (August 23~September 22)
CAPRICORN (December 22~January 19)
The Bull child is a calm, serene and loving
Virgo children are wise beyond their years.
The Goat child is considered an old soul,
child who needs to feel secure in his
Hermit - like tendencies, withdrawn but
wise beyond their years. Builders, love
surroundings, with a strong love of nature
observant. Very intelligent, organized and
stability, and structure. Down to earth,
and loves peacefulness and silence.
love helping others.
patient, and practical.
GEMINI (May 21~June 20)
LIBRA (September 23~October 22)
AQUARIUS (January 20~February 18)
The sign of the Twins is definitely two for the
Libra children are very charming and
The
price of one. Very active, physical, curious,
people are naturally drawn to them. They
imagination and sees the world through their
intelligent, exploring, athletic, talkative and
enjoy art, music, and playing dress up.
own eyes. Loves to invent and play make
always on the go.
Extremely intellectual.
believe, hates to be bored.
CANCER (June 21~July 22)
SCORPIO (October 23~November21)
PISCES (February 19~March 20)
Water
Bearer
has
a
wonderful
The Crab child is very nurturing and
The Scorpion child can be mysterious and
The Fish child is the most intuitive, sensitive
connected strongly to family and home.
quiet, a warrior, strong willed, determined.
and emotional of all. Sensitive to their
Sensitive, emotional, intuitive. Least likely to
They have strong feelings and dislike change.
surroundings, creative, will give anything to
let you know what’s really bothering them.
Never give in!
others, and most helpful.
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173
May, 2014
Summer Camp | By: BRITTANY SAWREY |
174
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zOO
May, 2014
Are you looking for summer fun for your kids? Do you want them to keep learning during the break, but also have a blast? Well look no further than the El Paso Zoo’s ‘Zoo Camp’!
“It’s an action-packed day camp with kids learning about the natural
With the new addition of the Foster Treehouse Playground joining the
world,” Toni Marie Lopez, the zoo’s Volunteer Coordinator, describes.
already-popular Splash Pad, carousel, incredible animals and delicious
This year will focus on two unique and fascinating animals: the ocelot
food, the El Paso Zoo is already a hot spot for hot days, and a perfect
and the sloth. Not only will kids get to learn about these amazing
family activity while kids are out of school. Zoo Camp gives the extra
creatures, but they will actual get up close and personal! Zoo Camp
opportunity for passionate, curious kids, ages 6-10, to learn even
kids get to go behind the scenes in multiple areas of the zoo, meeting
more about the zoo and its animals. The camps will run from June
the animals and getting to talk to the zookeepers themselves. “The
9th until the week of August 4th, and are Monday-Friday, 9 am-12
best part is that the kids get to go behind the scenes – they love
pm. For non-members, one week is $100, and for Zoological Society
that! They get to go where their parents usually cannot go,” Lopez
members it’s $90. If your child loves animals, learning, and having fun
explains. Beyond learning, tours, and cool crafts, kids also get healthy
outside, Zoo Camp is a perfect fit, but only 30 kids are allowed each
snacks, a free t-shirt and hat with this year’s theme on it.
week so sign up soon! “It’s a really unique experience,” Lopez adds, “They learn to care for the environment and for animals.”
ur o H y p p Ha B E T T E R DOING
S R A E Y 0 3 Y L R A NE for
14 0 2 5 8 9 1 Now Serving
www.thecitymagazineelp.com
5200 Doniphan Dr • 915 845 2277 • aceitunasbeergarden.com
175
This is
May, 2014
EP BIKE MONTH
| By: KRISTOFER JOHNSON photography courtesy of: VICTOR BARAJAS/ EP BIKE MONTH |
176
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May, 2014
I
EP Bike month
n between these mountains there are
Our own personal history on the border has
taken part in this pastime or would like to
plentiful minds looking for creative ways
embraced the love for human motor power.
again. The landscape is the desert, urban,
to dwell and how to get from one place
At the turn of the 20th century, the El Paso
suburban or outlying roads for commuting,
to the next. Reasons for getting from one
Cycle Company was located at 308 Mesa St.,
lounging or racing. Cornerstone to the event
place to another are different for different
the corner of Mills and Mesa, before it was
is the effect riding has on relationships within
people, ranging from health to fun, and
the Hotel Orndorff, Hotel Cortez and now the
the community at large and the infrastructure
contemporary functionality to pure efficiency.
Cortez Building. The El Paso Cycle Company
that we pedal on to the next destination.
invited riders and their bikes of all styles and May of every year is National Bike Month
sizes including the unicycle, tricycle, and
During the month there is a calendar full
sponsored by the League of American
for the faster and more adventurous riders,
of various styles of rides and events. This
Bicyclists and in May of 2012 and 2013 the
THE original two-wheeled big wheel, and the
includes long rides, short rides, family rides,
border community joined alongside this
penny farther bicycle.
beer-hopping rides, midnight rides, zombie rides, canyon rides, movie rides, park rides, a
national celebration with El Paso Bike Month. In continuation of the inaugural energy from
Things haven’t changed much and EP Bike
Mother’s Day ride and a ride associated with
the previous two years, this year’s event,
Month is an open call for any style of bike
the Wounded Warrior Project at Fort Bliss.
dubbed EP Bike Month, has the foundation
and rider to embrace, from the general rider
Also part of the ride calendar is a bi-national
and is ready to roll.
to the advanced rider at any age. The month
bike stroll to Juárez. The touching on our
long celebration represents the full spectrum
culture as El Paso Del Norte is inescapable,
of anyone who, at one time or another, has
so this ride is an interesting moment that
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177
EP Bike month
May, 2014
captivates bike month. Brandon Carrillo is a local website designer and coordinator for EP Bike Month, Carrillo mentions, “Cool thing about bike month is it’s not just a specific group doing the rides or just one committee doing the rides.” This is cool because the
”Something as simple as bike racks send a big
and that naturally lends itself locally to
month long event is open to the community
message. Sends a message that this is a bike-
creative design for bike rider infrastructure.
for suggestions on rides and events, which
friendly city, bring your bike and lock it up. You
can be coordinated and added to the calendar.
have to get artistic, you have to get creative and
Bike
include the community and art which can help
infrastructure of our current and future bike
New this year will also be events that include
create awareness for needed infrastructure
lanes, bike/pedestrian corridors, protected
art and artistic design for a practical addition
that also includes more bike lanes.”
bike lanes, and shared bike lanes to be as
Month
promotes
having
this
connected as possible. These connected
that can be associated with pretty much any business or location – bike racks. Coordinated
Just like our metropolitan peers across the
routes would then be visually mapped out
with Gabe Gonzalez, co-owner of the live
state we face some obstacles in terms of
like the bus system for those looking for the
music venue Tricky Falls, is an artist call for a
connected bike lanes, but we already have
most efficient way to pedal and get to their
variation to the EP Bike Month logo and also
the premiere visual backdrop and have had
destination. So over time EP Bike Month can
a call to create designs for a bike rack in front
just the right outward suburban growth which
have more routes and different scenery to
of Tricky Falls and Hello Day Café. Tricky Falls
actually gives us an advantage. Our suburbs
take in. El Pasoans are lovingly embracing the
will have a jury to decide a winner in both of
have not been as quickly constructed and
easily contagious, fun, healthy, community,
these categories with an art show finale.
recycled by the population as other suburbs
and commuter powers behind the bicycle
can be in other populated cities, which allows
pedal to ride on through the month and until
Victor Barajas has also helped to organize
possible pockets of bike heaven to be created
next May. For more information please go to
EP Bike Month, and one of his hats is as the
alongside our bus system that already
www.elpasobikemonth.com
“unofficial” but very official photographer for
has a valuable footprint. Our environment,
some of the rides and events, Barajas added:
historically speaking, is one to be built into,
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150 May, 2014
B R EATHTAKING. I N SPIRING. M E MORABLE.
D I SCOVER YOUR IMPRESSION OF E L P A SO’S PREMIER EVENT VENUE.
W E D D I N G S • P A RT I E S • C O R P O R AT E & S P E C I A L E V E N T S • B A R / B AT M I T Z VA H S
FU LL-SE RV I C E C AT ERIN G • M ENU P L ANNING • C USTOM DE C OR • EVE NT PL A N N IN G & DESIGN
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“Beautiful venue and incredible staff...Impeccable service.” 150 E. Sunset • (915) 585-0801 • 150sunset.com
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May, 2014
| By: JOHN DEL ROSARIO photography by: BEARD OF ZEUS |
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Neon Desert Music Festival 2014 The Show Must Go On! “One of the best moments I had at the
This
a
nowadays, it’s so much more than getting
first Neon Desert was when I had four or
downtown still riddled with construction
a bite to eat, grabbing a beer and listening
five different people who saw that I had a
barricades due to all the aforementioned
to music. These festivals have gotten so
walkie-talkie and that I was clearly working
development.
for
many interactive aspects to them. We want
the festival,” said Zach Paul. “They walked
space, the festival’s layout will take up less
to keep fans entertained on both days and
up to me and said, ‘I’ve never really been to
space than it has in previous years (and
that takes more than just music and cold
downtown, it feels like I’m in a different city
have two stages instead of their typical
drinks. So we’re looking at different things to
and it’s awesome!’”
four) while the event will be spread out over
bring to the festival this year to enhance the
two days on Memorial Day weekend.
experience for the fans.”
city’s push to create interest in downtown,
“We’ve been very fortunate to have the
Not to downplay the music, but this year’s
Southwest
these
support of the city,” Paul said. “That support
line-up is quite impressive as well. Perhaps
downtown happenings aren’t so much
comes from City Hall, the Visitors Bureau,
its most diverse line-up yet, this year’s
making El Paso a different city as they are
the Museum and Cultural Affairs department.
festival will be headlined by Wiz Khalifa,
breathing new life into an old one that still
I think they didn’t want to see the festival
Zedd, MGMT and Calle 13. With Wiz and
harkens memories of the “wild west” to the
leave downtown or take a year off.”
fellow rapper A$AP Ferg, this year marks the
year,
the
festival
remains
Compromising
time
in
The San Jacinto Plaza renovation, the University
Park:
All
first year that the festival will feature hip-hop
rest of the nation. Despite the construction, the festival still
acts (if you don’t include local band Riboflavin
Paul, along with the rest of the Splendid
promises to be everything it was in its
in previous years).
Sun organizers, are doing their part as they
previous years. “We’re going to have the
look to set local Instagram filters to “neon”
same amount of food vendors and the same
“There are other genres of music that I’d
as opposed to the faded sepia tones of old
amount of merch vendors,” Paul said. “It’s
love to bring to the festival,” Paul said. “But
pictures of Billy the Kid and Pancho Villa
not going to decrease the amount of live art
we know that Latin does well, that electronic
when they bring back their annual Neon
we’re going to have. In fact, we’re actually
music is popular. So when it came time to
Desert Music Festival for a fourth year on
looking into more interactive aspects to keep
expand the line-up this year, hip-hop was the
May 24 and 25.
people entertained. When you go to festivals
obvious choice. When we asked people in
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May, 2014
our festival survey which genre they’d like to see in the line-up, the overwhelming request was hip-hop.” Other notable acts that will be playing this year include the Bloody Beatroots, Capital Cities and Hello Seahorse! Along with the set line-up, there will also be the return of the Silent Disco where fans gather around a DJ stage containing two DJs with no sound amplification. Fans, instead, are given headphones that are broadcasting both DJs sets where they can switch between sets with a flick of a switch and dance surrounded by the rest of the festival that can’t hear the music.
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Four years in, the festival is a regular fixture of El Paso’s very own “festival season.” Along with the Texas Showdown Festival and Sun City Music Festival in the summer, Neon Desert is a service not just to the city in terms of economic impact, but to a local art scene that has been steadily making a name for itself. “I think El Paso, in general, has seen the art scene improve exponentially in the last five or six years,” said Tyler Dudley, singer/guitarist of local band The DA. Though Dudley has been living in Seattle for the last year, he will be traveling back to make a return performance at the festival this year. “We went from this sort of barren dark age of no music scene. It really blows my mind how much El Paso, in general, has improved and the local pride people have is kind of heartwarming and makes me pretty homesick.” For year four, Paul sees nothing but growth from here. “I think when we first started, the vision was, ‘Put a festival on that can make it past the first few years. Let’s get it right and let’s make sure we can have it for that second year and third year,’” he said. “At this point, I’d say the vision is growth. That’s the word I keep going back to. I think as you look at year four at the artists we’re bringing and that we’ve expanded to two days, we’re clearly heading in the right direction and achieving that growth.”
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May, 2014
POLO REAL Tradition on the Border | By: ADAIR MARGO |
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O May, 2014
polo real
POLO REAL
n May 17, 2014 at the Santa Maria Polo Club in El
Paso’s upper valley, the El Paso Museum of History
Foundation will host POLO REAL, honoring Paul and
Alejandra Foster. Both Fosters play polo as a hobby and
both will be there to enjoy the match. Alejandra – from Juárez
– introduced the sport to her husband. Soon after their marriage,
Paul gave her Tom Lea’s painting, “Something about Polo” as a gift.
El Paso has an impressive polo history – going back more than 100 years when U.S. cavalry troops played at Fort Bliss. Polo’s relationship to the military is ancient, beginning with Persian tribes practicing maneuvers for battle. They invented polo to prepare for the rigors of war over 2,000 years ago! In observing polo, the Persian philosopher and poet, Omar Khayyam, saw much more to it than a game to prepare for warfare. He saw a metaphor for a higher force in human lives:
In the cosmic game of polo you are the ball The mallet’s left and right becomes your call He who causes your movements, your rise and fall He is the one, the only one, who knows it all With its superior cavalry, Persia expanded across Asia, taking polo to China, Japan and Tibet. The Tibetan name for “ball” is “pulu,” giving polo its name. Though the sport has nearly disappeared from these ancient lands, it can be found in northern Pakistan. There on a rocky field beside the 11,000 - foot Shandur Pass each July, the rivaling teams of Gilgit and Chitra play under a full moon, following rules dictated by a descendant of Genghis Kahn! Polo flourished in 19th century India, especially in the province of Manipur. When a perplexed British soldier first saw it, he wrote about “hockey on horseback.” After an officer with the Tenth Hussars cavalry regiment near London read about polo in a sporting journal, he ordered his men to play. It became part of every British cavalry officer’s training, and the Calcutta Polo Club was started by British soldiers in 1862. 185
polo real
May, 2014
As a young cavalry officer, Winston Churchhill
being raised for polo. The experience stayed
popularity, there were 1,500 military players
learned the sport and loved it, starting a polo
with him, and ten years later he painted
– far outnumbering civilians playing the sport.
club in India when he was stationed there.
“Something about Polo” with the inscribed
Describing a game with the kinsmen of the
“memoir of the Reynals, and the horses of
When the cavalry mechanized and horse
regent of Jodhpor, Sir Pertab Singh wrote in
the Argentine” on the back.
power became horsepower, the need for horses in peacetime and war became an
“My Early Life”: The U.S. Army relied on horses through the
enjoyment of horses for past time and sport.
Old Pertab, who loved polo (next to war)
Spanish American War as Teddy Roosevelt
Polo in Juárez became popular in the 1940s
more than anything in the world, used to
– one of the first members of the Polo
when Antonio and Octavio Bermudez – who
stop the game repeatedly and point out
Association – led the charge up San Juan
showcased the great Mexican handling of
faults or possible improvements in play and
Hill. Horsemanship was synonymous with
horses through the charros - also started the
combination. ‘Faster, faster, same like fly,’
leadership and polo efficiently trained soldiers
first polo field – a campo de tierra – near the
he would shout to increase the speed of
for war, using cow ponies bought for $15 a
old hippodromo close to Avenida Cervezeria.
the game. The Jodhpor polo ground rises in
head. Teams – including one at Fort Bliss –
After being invited to play on the green
great clouds of red dust when the game is in
were assembled, schooled and sent on the
grass of Armstrong Field at Fort Bliss, the
progress … turbaned figures emerged at full
road to compete with other Army teams. The
Bermudez family started Club de Polo Las
gallup from the dust-cloud…
Army chief of staff advised as the nation braced
Anitas near the Zaragoza Bridge. There they
for WWI, “U.S. cavalry fighters are going to
hosted Mexico’s Camacho Cup, drawing the
play polo in order to obtain poise in the saddle.”
greatest polo players in the world – and today
British cattlemen introduced the game to
players from Mexico and the United States
Argentina, a Mecca for polo aficionados
play on the grass fields on a regular basis.
today with the world’s most prestigious
General Pershing - who arrived in El Paso
tournament, the Argentine Open, and the
in 1914 and trained inexperienced forces at
majority of top-ranked players. It was there
Fort Bliss - was an avid polo player. After
Polo Real is an important event for El Paso,
on the pampas of the Argentine - visiting his
being promoted to General of the Armies
and not only to raise money for the El Paso
friend Bob Kleberg’s estancia while doing
of the United States, he invited the British
History Museum. It is a time to become
research for his 1964 novel, “The Hands
Army to a series of matches in 1923 and
part of a living tradition that goes back over
of Cantu” - that Tom Lea observed horses
1925. In the 1930s, at the height of polo’s
thousands of years.
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May, 2014
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to 50 1
NO Long Shot by any means... This is a Winner!
T
here is a great line towards the
literally by accident, managed to have enough
story, but in this case, I absolutely feared for
end of the immortal film classic,
points to qualify for the Derby — How does
their safety on the trek to Kentucky, and was
“The Wizard of Oz” where
that happen? Is there ever enough time to
worried that “Mine that Bird,” could actually
Dorothy says, “If you look for
prepare? And can you just hook a horse
finish last in the race. The suspense builds
your heart’s desire...don’t look further than
trailer up to a pick-up and take a horse for a
throughout and so do the happy endings.
your own backyard.” The film “50 to 1,”
cross-country ride at the last minute? This is a tremendously brilliant ensemble cast
produced and directed by Jim Wilson, is an example of that statement. No need to put on
This very merry band of bandits, including
with the likes of Ulrich, the amazing William
the 3-D glasses, when you have the perfect
trainers etc., boards a big trailer and off they go
Devane, as Doc Bloch, the Veterinarian who
story to tell that takes place in one’s own
from New Mexico to Churchill Downs for the
clearly has more than just a big job ahead of him,
backyard. In this case, at the Sunland Park
ultimate “Run of the Roses.” In spite of every
Todd Lowe, the charming Madylyn Deutch and
Racetrack, just down the road from El Paso,
odd known to man, it can happen. I promise
Christian Kane is indeed a powerful standout
Texas whereby a very ordinary horse became
you will feel the pressure of that trip, and
as the owner of the seemingly forgettable
part of what is clearly the most exciting two
breathe a huge sigh of relief upon arrival. The
horse who takes his place in history. What an
minutes in sports.
road trip alone is worth the price of admission.
engaging performance! All of the characters,
The direction is absolutely perfect as this
in spite of the odds against them and their
It is very easy to take pride in a story that
bunch faces every single solitary obstacle to
quirks, are all loveable. They all make you
begins so close to what I call home. “Mine
keep that horse from the starting gate. Once
stand up and notice their performances and
that Bird,” a horse described by many as an
they arrive, the blue bloods at the Derby simply
clearly their love of the story. That all comes
odd-looking crooked hoofed gelding, made
scoff at this crew. These amateurs will never
right through the celluloid.
his way to the finish line lengths above the
wind up on Millionaire’s Row, or will they? This is a film for the entire family, and its
rest of the pack at the Kentucky Derby of 2009. His owner, Mark Allen, played with a
Without giving the wonderful plot away,
geographic regions know no boundaries. This is
wonderfully genuine exhuberance that you
this film is more than just a story about
more than just a 1,500-mile road trip, and there
don’t see every day on film, by versatile actor
the underdog taking home the prize. It’s an
are so many unforgettable moments including
Christian Kane, managed, through the most
adventure. The cinematography is stunning.
a bar fight early on that rivals a John Wayne/
unconventional ways, to find the perfect
Talk about one’s own backyard? The beautiful
Jimmy Stewart Western. It’s that classic!
trainer for his young horse in the form of Chip
backdrops of New Mexico radiate here, and
Wooley, played with sheer determination,
everyone in the audience at the Las Cruces,
A great story simply has to be told. This is
honesty and heart by Skeet Ulrich. The horse
New Mexico Theater where I saw the film,
one of them, and I am so happy that all of this
was as prepared as he could be under the
beamed with pride and the applause was
happened in my own backyard.
most unusual of circumstances, and then,
thunderous. Here is my issue...I knew the
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| By: SHELLEY MOZELLE |
Photo courtesy of: The Courier-Journal, Louisville, Kentucky 190
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Behind the Movie Mine That Bird, the 2009 Kentucky Derby Winner
T
They were unknown, at
least in the world of Church Hill Downs, but to the New Mexico racing world, Chip Woolley, was just another of the many trainers trying to make a
name. Veterinarian Doc Blach was known in Southern New Mexico and West Texas as the leg man, and Mark Allen, well, he was just known. Mine That Bird, he was their chance, a 50 to 1 gamble. Mine That Bird’s trip from a $9,500 yearling to a 50-1 Kentucky Derby winner was a dubious one. Born in Kentucky May 10, in the thoroughbred-breeding world, the colt was considered a late-season arrival. Mine
Chip Woolley
That Bird’s direct lineage was unproven, he
Mark Allen
Dr. Leonard Blach
Photo courtesy of: The Courier-Journal, Louisville, Kentucky
was the first foal for his dam (mother), the unraced Smart Strike mare named Mining
the others, sired by a stubborn stallion and
Horse. On October 11, 2008, Bird -- as he
My Own, and he was part of the first crop,
an ugly mare. Even with all that against him,
became known -- was sold for $400,000 to
again unproven, for his sire (father) Birdstone
there was still something special, unknown
new buyers from a New Mexico partnership
who was famously known as the horse that
at the time -- a champion had been born.
that included Double Eagle Ranch and Buena
upset Smarty Jones’s Triple Crown bid in
Suerte Equine. $400,000 for a gelding, with
the 2004 Belmont Stakes. With an unproven
Like every trainer/buyer at a horse sale, Mine
no chance of reproduction was again, a
dam and an unproven first crop on the sire
That Bird’s first trainer, Canadian Dave Cotey,
gamble. “There was no haggling,” Mark
side, Mine That Bird was a breeding gamble.
was looking for a promising inexpensive colt.
Allen, 56, said, “They wanted $400,000 and
He was described by his breeder as a young
He saw something and purchased Mine That
we paid it.” The question has always been,
foul that was always getting into mischief,
Bird for a mere $9,500 in 2007, a once in a
why buy a gelding that had no future of a
feisty, playful, very active, and could be
lifetime purchase and clearly a purchase he’ll
cushy life spending his retirement as a stud,
seen as a young colt running laps around
never forget. Cotey, who says The Bird’s
simply reproducing? Mark Allen said, “We
his paddock like he was training himself.
favorite pastime is eating peppermints, went
wanted a racehorse, not a stallion.”
He wasn’t perfect, he had a foot that toed
on to develop the gelding that was voted the
out; he was an awkward colt, smaller than
2008 Canadian Champion two-year-old Male
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M I N e T H AT B I R D
May, 2014
Mine That Bird’s New Mexico trainer, Chip
2008 F-450 Lariat truck and trailer, the media
inside lane was best, and the fastest way
Woolley, planned to take The Bird to the Lone
made a mockery of the team. Innuendos
to a win was taking the shortest route. After
Star Derby, but his course changed when he
of the unknown cowboy-trainer hauling his
being squeezed at the start, the rider sat
got the call that, based on Mine That Bird’s
New Mexico gelding to the 25th Kentucky
“chilly” waiting to make his historic move.
past career earnings in graded stakes races,
Derby could be heard on the backside. From
Borel worked his magic, looking for holes and
he’d qualified as one of the Kentucky Derby
the start, this story had the makings of a
pushed past horses on the backside. As he
starters. This was much needed good news
Hollywood film. Former rodeo bareback rider
finished the hook (turn) and headed home he
at the time. To date Chip’s year of wins
for a trainer who’d been down on his luck, the
made his move. Leaving the rail only once to
wasn’t what he’d hoped for, the Racing Gods
only gelding in the 2009 Kentucky Derby race,
go around tiring horses, then back down on
hadn’t been on his side; furthermore he’d
a well-respected semi-retired veterinarian, the
the rail, The Bird guided by Borel came from
had a motorcycle wreck in March, which
full-of-life party boy owner, and … they were
the back of the pack with an eighth of a mile
meant he was still wearing a cast, and still
all from New Mexico. Chip was training for his
left, picking off one, two, three, and finally the
hobbling sporting crutches.
friend Mark Allen, the same stranger that he’d
eighteenth horse, exploding out of nowhere,
met and defended in a bar fight many years
like he was running on jet fuel. Imagine the
Little was known about the trainer that would
earlier, when the team that was anything but
talent, the guts it takes riding a horse with
soon become one of the most talked about
pretentious formed a partnership that will be
only a 1-pound saddle, at amazing speed,
racing personalities in the country. Chip
remembered throughout history.
and squeezing a 1,200 lbs. horse through a tight space. Not many horses will take the
Woolley, was a 45-year-old former bareback rodeo rider, who was raised in a little town in
The overnight rain turned the Churchill
rail, shrinking, squeezing through, and not
Texas, Dalhart but currently calls Bloomfield,
Downs dirt track into a rating of “sloppy” for
many riders have the courage. Only those
New Mexico home. He comes from a family
the 2009 Kentucky Derby, the thoroughbred
familiar with the race world can appreciate
of cowboys, from his grandfather who
showdown with the world’s racing elite. No
the challenge. Borel’s iron (stirrup) skimmed
starred in rodeos in the 1920s, to his dad
one gave Woolley and his horse much of
the rail, his no-fear attitude paid off. Mine
and brother Bill who are both respectable
a chance, so the real question was, could
That Bird was in a lane all his own; he was
horsemen. Chip was raised around the track,
Mine That Bird run with the world’s toughest
three lengths in the lead before announcer
an accomplished rider and even galloped his
thoroughbreds? Could he run in the mud?
Drukin made the call announcing Mine That
owns horses. Horse training has always been
Was the gelding ready for the race of his
Bird as a contender, coming on like a freight
his passion. To date, he’s known as the New
life? Jockey Calvin Borel, who’d already felt
train. At 6:30 the 153,563 attendees checked
Mexico trainer who shattered his leg when
the success of a 2007 Kentucky Derby win,
their programs to see who the number eight
he lost control of his motorcycle, the trainer
thought they had a chance. Mark Allen, with
horse was that finished six and three quarter
who hobbled to the paddock on crutches
high hopes, said his famous quote, “Please
lengths ahead of the eighteen horse field. It
during the walk over to the Kentucky Derby,
God, just don’t let him be last.” The bell rang,
was Mine That Bird, and he rallied from last
and the man who drove 1,700 miles to the
they were off, and it wasn’t a good break for
to win the 135th Kentucky Derby by 6 ¾
Derby with his broken left foot angled over
Mine That Bird. Trouble getting out of the
lengths with a speed figure of 110, running
the gas pedal and brake so he could drive
starting gate, he was left about eight lengths
the Derby’s mile and a quarter distance in 2
his gelding to the Kentucky Derby. He was
behind the rest of the field. By the time the
minutes 2.66 seconds. The long-shot Mine
2009s most talked about racehorse trainer
rest of the horses were running down the
That Bird became the second-biggest upset
who splashed into the stage of thoroughbred
back stretch, The Bird was so far back that
winner in Derby history, with a two-dollar win
racing proudly standing alongside the likes of
announcer Tom Durkin never “called” him.
wager return of $103.20. When asked about
Bob Baffert, Wayne Lukas, and other racing
You see in the racing world the announcer
the rail move, Borel said, “I wasn’t worried,
greats who’ve stood in the Winner’s Circle of
“calls” the horses that the crowd should keep
he’s a small horse and I knew I could squeeze
The Kentucky Derby.
an eye on, usually those in the first part of the
him through.” Calvin Borel’s tears flowed
pack, or at least those expected to place. As
as he patted and hugged on the gelding he
It was the trip they waited an entire lifetime
they went into the first hook (turn) Mine That
hardly knew, and kissed a rose, pointing
for -- an unlikely journey from the heart of
Bird was running in the back, trailing as much
it toward the heavens in honor of his late
New Mexico to Churchill Downs. When New
as six lengths. The Cajun Jockey Calvin Borel
mother and father.
Mexico trainer Chip Woolley hauled Mine That
was known for his ground-saving, classic rail-
Bird 1,700 miles, 21 hours from home, in his
skimming style of jockeying; he knew the
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M I N D T H AT B I R D
Photo courtesy of: Ty Wyant, Ruidoso Downs Race Track Trainer Bob Baffert was among the many
After all, this is a competition: they are
strategies, high-altitude acclimation training.
who doubted the cowboys, as they’d
out to win and this is how they make their
Did his high mountain conditioning stimulate
become known, and their horse, but when
living. They gain their secrets through other
the production of red blood cells by causing
asked to comment about the race he gave
horsemen, elders in the racing world, through
a release of endogenous erythropoietin,
credit when he said, “Those cowboys came
leg liniments, specialty-shoeing, secret mixes
enabling his blood to have the iron to carry
with a good horse.”
of nutritional feed, and cocktails whose
the oxygen? He was the only horse who had
ingredients are used as secret weapons. Just
all four legs wrapped during the race. It’s
Trainers in the sport of kings have many
like any other athletes secrets have been
been proven that lower leg pressure wraps
top secrets that aren’t shared, and why
used to enhance performances since back in
can improve increased blood return from the
would they?
Greek times.
legs to the heart; some consider leg wraps
Their methods are top secret, they skirt
One of Mine That Bird’s rumored “edges”
down into the different oxygen elevation and
boundaries – it’s what gives them the edge.
comes from one of the oldest endurance
the other horses in the Derby came up. Was
“oxygen stockings.” The Bird was driven
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May, 2014
Ty Wyant, Ruidoso Downs Race Track that an advantage? Did he “out-breathe” the
received a police escort during the last miles
racing’s most coveted crowns, a horse that
competition? Did his black hooves and their
of their trip coming into Baltimore, and Chip
went on to touch the lives of so many, will
flare shaping have the advantage to handle
joked that he’s used to the police chasing him,
go down in history as a horse that defied
the Kentucky mud, often called “mudder
not clearing the way. The Preakness came
the odds, leaving behind a lifetime effect on
hooves?” He was the only gelding in the field,
with new mount Jockey Mike Smith, another
New Mexico racing. The Bird is retired and
was his mind on business, not having to bother
native New Mexican, who once again came
stabled in The Land of Enchantment at co-
himself with the hundreds of fillies in heat
from last through difficult traffic, and on the
owner Mark Allen’s Double Eagle Ranch with
on the backside, was he more focused? Did
final turn was closing rapidly. But the finish line
a career earning of $2,228.637.
his gentleman ways give him an edge? Was
came before he could catch the filly, Rachel
it simply the combination, the chemistry of
Alexandra, to earn a second-place finish. Then
Mine That Bird is possibly the greatest
horse, jockey, and trainer? Only Chip Woolley
in the last leg of the triple crown, the Belmont
athlete the racing world has seen in the past
and his team know, and they’re not sharing.
Stakes on June 6, 2009, again with Calvin
15 years, and justly so, has a film produced
Borel aboard, The Bird ran along the backside
after his life. The film “50 to 1” is the true
Mine That Bird earned a first place check
after taking the lead at the top of the stretch,
story of Mine That Bird’s historic race and
worth more than $1.4 million and catapulted
but was beaten down the lane to finish third.
can be seen in theaters. When asking Wilson
the meteoric rise to fame for his cowboy
On February 11, 2010, the New Mexico
how true the movie was to the real life, he
trainer and owners to return the second-
State House of Representatives unanimously
commented, “Very close, with a little bit of
largest win payout in Derby history. He went
voted Mine That Bird New Mexico Horse of
Hollywood added in.”
on to run the Preakness Stakes where they
The Year for 2009. A horse that won one of
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etiquette
May, 2014
Treat Administration Aides with Respect for Best Work | By: JOANN WARDY | A great administrative assistant enhances his organization by the way he handles his responsibilities. A responsive boss will show her appreciation by treating him with respect and consideration. Some tips: • A boss introduces his assistant as “Mr. Smith.” This gives
him a sense of dignity and special status.
• On occasion, the boss may invite her assistant to lunch,
for example on Administrative Assistant Day, to show
her appreciation. The same applies to working overtime.
It may occasionally be necessary, but to do it on a regular
basis infringes on his privacy.
• He should not be expected to perform personal services
such as picking up dry cleaning, unless these services
have been agreed upon during the interview.
Here at M!X, we have every luxurious service you could ever want or ask for. Our hair salon, nail salon, spa and sauna, and third story restaurant and viewing terrace are all meant for one thing, making you feel extraordinary. Don’t delay and call today and book your appointment now!
196 www.thecitymagazineelp.com 4201 Camelot Heights Dr. by N. Mesa | El Paso, Texas 79912 | (915) 351-0032 | mixsalonspa.com | Like us on Facebook!
medical
May, 2014
NO SWEAT! Approximately 3% of the general population in the United States suffers from excessive perspiration, particularly in the axillary areas. This condition is referred to as hyperhidrosis. | By: LYLE D. WEEKS, M.D. |
Dr Lyle D. Weeks, MD Envy Aesthetic Center 5407 N Mesa (915) 845 - 3223 envyaestheticcenter.com
requires about one hour. Normal activities
reduction in perspiration but also decreased
may be resumed immediately after treatment.
body odor and hair growth. Side effects other
Some aftercare (ice packs and ibuprofen) are
than those mentioned are minimal.
recommended for two to three days. Cost varies in parts of the United States but the
usually is in the range of $2,000 - $3,000. Since
reduction of perspiration, but must be
the results are permanent, it is very cost effective
repeated approximately every six months
compared to Botox or other modalities.
Botox
injections
are
effective
for
to maintain adequate results. This is not the case with the MiraDry treatment, as the
For further information, contact Dr. Lyle Weeks at
results are permanent, including not only
the Envy Aesthetic Center, (915) 845-3223.
Until recently no real effective treatment was available to deal with this condition but a significant new technology has come available that treats this condition effectively. A device, called “MiraDry�
Before
After
reduces axillary perspiration by as much as 90%, often with a single treatment. Positive side effects of the treatment are nearly complete reduction of odor and significant reduction of hair growth. In fact, the device is more effective in removing hair than are the lasers used for that purpose. The treatment is minimally invasive, done in the office under local anesthesia and usually Before www.thecitymagazineelp.com
After 197
investment
May, 2014
Zen and 10 Habits for Financial Stability and Success
M
y business partner asked me what “zen” meant. One way to think of zen is this: a total state of focus that incorporates a total togetherness of body and mind. Zen is a way of being. It also is a state of mind. Zen involves dropping
illusion and seeing things without distortion created by your own thoughts. Just like any goal, getting your finances stable and becoming financially successful requires the development of good financial habits. Here is the top 10 list to eliminate debt, increase your savings and increase financial security for your family. I’ll talk more about these habits individually, but wanted to list them in a summary (I know, but I’m a compulsive list-maker). Here they are, in no particular order:
1. Evaluate your expenses, and live frugally.
about this transaction — just make sure it
4. Keep your family secure. The first step
If you’ve never tracked your expenses, try
happens, each and every payday.
is to save for an emergency fund, so that if anything happens, you’ve got the money. If
keeping a 30-day list. If you have an urge to buy something, make it a rule that you have
3. Control your impulse spending. The
you have a spouse and/or dependents, you
to first write it on your 30-day list. If, at the
biggest problem for many of us. Impulse
should definitely get life insurance and make
end of those 30 days, you still want it, then
spending, on eating out and shopping
a will — as soon as possible! Also research
you can buy it (if you have the money). Just
and online purchases, is a big drain on our
other insurance, such as homeowner’s or
the act of putting it on the list (awareness) and
finances, the biggest budget breaker for
renter’s insurance.
forcing yourself to wait (delay) can make a big
many, and a sure way to be in dire financial
difference. Then evaluate how you’re spending
straits. Keep a small notebook handy, and
5. Invest in your future. If you’re young, you
your money, and see what you can cut out or
every time you get an urge to buy something,
probably don’t think about retirement much.
reduce. Decide if each expense is absolutely
practical or not, put a little tally in the
But it’s important. Even if you think you can
necessary, then eliminate the unnecessary.
notebook. Tally every urge, whether it is to
always plan for retirement later, do it now.
buy something online, or at a store, looking at
The growth of your investments over time
2. Make savings automagical. This should
a catalog, thinking about that new iPod while
will be amazing if you start in your 20s. Start
be your top priority, especially if you don’t
at your desk, or even if it’s multiple urges to
by increasing your 401(k) to the maximum
have a solid emergency fund yet. Make it
buy the same item. Whether you buy the
of your company’s match, if that’s available
the first bill you pay each payday, by having
item or not, just keep track of the urges.
to you. After that, the best bet is probably a
a set amount automatically transferred from
Many times the urges are subconscious.
Roth IRA. Do a little research, but whatever
your checking account to your savings (try
You won’t be able to control your spending if
you do, start now!
an online savings account). Don’t even think
you’re not aware of it.
198
www.thecitymagazineelp.com
May, 2014
investment
2013 Broker/Dealer of the Year
6. Eliminate and avoid debt. If you’ve got
and when you run out of money, you know
credit cards, personal loans, or other such
it immediately. You don’t overspend in these
debt, you need to start a debt elimination
categories. If you regularly run out too fast,
plan. List out your debts and arrange them
you may need to rethink your budget.
in order from the smallest balance at the top to the largest at the bottom. Then focus on
8. Pay bills immediately, or automagically.
the debt at the top, putting as much as you
One good habit is to pay bills as soon as
can into it, even if it’s just $40-50 extra (more
they come in. Also, as much as possible, try
would be better). When that amount is paid
to get your bills to be paid through automatic
off, celebrate! Then take the total amount
deduction. For those that can’t, use your bank’s
you were paying (say $70 minimum payment
online check system to make regular automatic
plus the $50 extra for a total of $120) and add
payments. This way, all of your regular
that to the minimum payment of the next
expenses in your budget are taken care of.
largest debt. Continue this process, with your extra amount snowballing as you go along,
9. Look to grow your net worth. Do
until you pay off all your debts. This could
whatever you can to improve your net worth,
take several years, but it’s a very rewarding
either by reducing your debt, increasing your
process, and very necessary.
savings, or increasing your income, or all of the above. Look for new ways to make
7. Use the envelope system. This is a simple
money, or to get paid more for what you do.
system to keep track of how much money
Over the course of months, if you calculate
you have for spending. Let’s say you set aside
your net worth each month, you’ll see it
three amounts in your budget each payday —
grow. And that feels great.
one for gas, one for groceries, one for eating out. Withdraw those amounts on payday
10. Read about personal finances. The
and put them in three separate envelopes.
more you educate yourself, the better your
That way, you can easily track how much
finances will be.
Monica Salaiz Narvaez CFP®, CLTC
Partner & Director of Financial Planning Wealth Management Advisor Strategic Wealth Advisors Terrace Gardens Office Park 600 Sunland Park, Building One, Ste 100 El Paso, Texas 79912 (915) 532-8885 Office (915) 842-9532 fax mnarvaez@sw-advisors.com www.sw-advisors.com Views and opinions expressed are those of Monica Narvaez and are subject to change based on market and other conditions. The tax information contained herein is general in nature, is provided for informational purposes only, and should not be construed as legal or tax advice. Always consult an attorney or tax professional regarding your specific legal or tax situation. Securities offered through Investors Capital Corporation, Member FINRA/SIPC. Advisory Services, if applicable, offered through Investors Capital Advisory 6 Kimball Lane, Lynnfield, MA 01940, (800) 949-1422
you have left for each of these expenses, www.thecitymagazineelp.com
199
May, 2014
THE CITY AGENDA may 2014 1 may 1-4
Here We Almost Are UTEP Theatre and Dance will host the premiere of Here We Almost Are, a wondrous and bizarre tale of love and things lost, with performances May 1-3 at 8 pm and May 4 at 2:30 pm. Tickets are $13. Info: theatredance.utep.edu/
1 may 1-31
Chihuahuas Baseball There are plenty of opportunities in May to come say hello to your new El Paso Chihuhuas! The inaugural season is underway at shiny new Southwest University Park in Downtown El Paso. Info: epchihuahuas.com 5.1 Fresno 6:35p
5.15 Las Vegas 6:35p
5.2 Sacramento 7:05p
5.16 Las Vegas 7:05p
5.3. Sacramento 7:05p
5.17 Las Vegas 7:05p
5.4 Sacramento 1:05p
5.18 Las Vegas 1:05p
5.5 Sacramento 6:35p
5.27 Las Vegas 6:35p
5.10 Albuquerque 7:05p
5.28 Las Vegas 11:05p
5.11 Albuquerque 1:05p
5.29 Las Vegas 6:35p
5.12 Albuquerque 6:35p
5.30 Las Vegas 7:05p
5.13 Albuquerque 11:05a
5.31 Tacoma 7:05p
1 may 1
Hiking Tour at Hueco Tanks Enjoy the West Texas spring weather with a day of hiking at extraordinary Hueco Tanks State Park. Bring a camera, water, and a backpack! Info: (915) 744-1532
2 may 2 - sep. 19
FirstLight Federal Credit Union Presents Alfresco Fridays Alfresco Fridays are back this summer for their 12th season! This year’s events will be held at the Convention Center Plaza. Admission is free; no pets allowed. 5.2 Sorry About Your Sister (Rockabilly) 5.9 Radio la Chusma (Latin/Reggae) 5.16 PT & The Cruisers (Classic Rock) 5.23 Brown Betty (Classic Rock) 5.30 Fixed Idea (Latin Ska) Info: elpasolive.com/alfrescofridays
2 may 2
Jerry Seinfeld From the ineffable Seinfeld to the recent, surprising Comedians in Cars Getting Coffee, Jerry Seinfeld hasn’t stopped making us laugh. See him perform at the Abraham Chavez Theatre on May 2nd at 7 pm. Info: ticketmaster.com
1
2
may 1 - jun. 19
Flamenco Dance Class
First Friday Artwalk & Ghost Tour
The El Paso Museum of History will be putting on Flamenco dance classes for the next two months, beginning on Thursday evenings from 6 to 7 pm. Principal Flamenco soloist Linda Gallegos will be instructing; each class is $10 for museum members and $20 for non-members. Info: (915) 351-3588 or elpaso.texas.gov
Experience the First Friday Artwalk and Ghost Tour at San Elizario Historical District from 6 to 10 pm. See local art, shop for jewelry, pottery, and more. There will be sweet and savory treats and also a “movie on the wall” at 8:15. Admission is free; the ghost tour is $10. Info: sanelizariohistoricartdistrict.com
may 2
200
3 may 3
March of Dimes The 2014 March for Babies promises to be a another fun day out with people who share a passion for improving the health of babies, and this year it’s at the Fountains at Farah. Registration starts at 7 am. Info: (915) 590-9499 or marchforbabies.org
3 may 3-31
World Cinema Series Every Saturday in May, the El Paso Museum of Art will host an afternoon of film and culture starting May 3rd at 2 pm. The event is free to the public, but donations are appreciated. Info: (915) 532-1707
www.thecitymagazineelp.com
May, 2014
3 may 3
A Salty Tale: History of Salt Mining in the Tularosa Basin
Concerts
White Sands National Monument invites you to see for yourself the ancient history of the region. The tour takes place May 3rd at 1 pm and admission is free. Info: (575) 479-6124 ext. 236 or nps.gov/whsa
MORRISSEY is at the Plaza Theatre on the 13th.
1
Cashmere Cat lowbrow palace • 9 pm
Part Time Acid Mothers Temple
may 9
3 5
w/ nikki lane tricky falls • 7 pm
state line • 8 pm
Josh Abbott Band
8
graham central station • 9 pm
New Young Pony Club w/ great shapes lowbrow palace • 9 pm
Kaskade
13
10
Morrissey Black Flag
may 3
13
tricky falls • 7 pm
23
Gipsy Kings socorro event center • 6 pm
The Chain Gang of 1974 w/ wildcat! Wildcat! lowbrow palace• 9 pm
www.thecitymagazineelp.com
From 12 pm to 2 am, Robinson Street will be blocked off at Mesa and there will be vendors, art, food trucks and live music from tons of acts, including L.I.G.R.E, Radio La Chusma, VRNS, the Lusitania, Mattox, the Golden Trees, the D.A. (DJ set), Eureka the Butcher, Kilohertz, Tom Laike, Great Shapes, Our Friend The Mountain, Acid Pie, and Nalgadas. Tickets are $8-10, open to all ages. Info: ticketfly.com
3
plaza theatre • 7 pm
w/ hor & cinema cinema
may 3
Robinson Street Block Party
Cory Morrow
the garden • 9 pm
George Lopez, wildly successful standup and sitcom star and one of the most beloved Latino comedians of all time, brings his Listen to My Face tour to the Abraham Chavez Theatre May 3rd at 8 pm. Info: ticketmaster.com
Mother’s Day Senior Dance
w/ perhaps
Old 97s
10
George Lopez
9
lowbrow palace • 9 pm
7
may 3
2
monarch • 9 pm
4
3
30
7th Annual Race Against Diabetes 5K Thousands will run or walk this downtown 5K to support the El Paso Diabetes Association and raise awareness for the dangers of diabetes. The race starts at 8 am at Union Plaza in downtown El Paso. Info: (915) 532-6280 or raceadventuresunlimited.com
Hilos De Plata Senior Center will host their annual Mother’s Day Dance from 10 am to 5 pm. Admission is $5 after 1 pm. Info: (915) 533-3207
10 may 10
A-MAY-ZING Sports Event El Paso Parks and Rec, along with Move El Paso! and others, are putting on a day of sports, fun, and pushing yourself to the limit at the Westside Park and Recreation Facility. The event runs from 9 am to 2 pm; admission is free. Info: (915) 867-0838 or home.elpasotexas.gov/parks
10 may 10-11
Mother’s Day Weekend Festival Make this year’s Mother’s Day special at El Maida Shrine Auditorium. This 10th annual event features antiques, collectibles, arts and western memorabilia--over 90 vendors in total. Info: (915) 443-0824
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May, 2014
THE CITY AGENDA may 2014 18 may 18
Mission Trail Art Market
14 may 14
Frank Abagnale Frank Abagnale Jr., whose legendary exploits were dramatized in Steven Spielberg’s 2002 film Catch Me if You Can, will be giving his “The Art of Steal” seminar at the El Paso Convention Center on May 14th. Continuing education credits for CPAs are available. Info: (915) 577-0195
Discover the Mission Trail Art Market, the Mission Valley’s premier art and craft sale. Professional artisans from across the region present an amazing selection of quality painting, sculpture, photography and more. 11 am - 6 pm; admission is free. Info: missiontrailartmarket.com
may 24-25
Neon Desert
18
17
may 18
may 17-18
Braden Aboud Memorial Run/Walk
Spring Art in the Park El Paso Parks and Recreation Center is hosting an open-air art showcase on May 17th and 18th from 11 am to 6 pm. Entertainment and art vendors will be set up along with several food vendors. Admission is free. Info: (915) 544-0753 ext. 23 or elpasotexas.gov/parks
24
The 8th annual Braden Aboud Memorial Run/Walk goes orange this year for UTEP’s 100th anniversary! This event supports the B WARM Blanket Drive, the B STRONG Shoe Giveaway, the City of El Paso After School Project, school and organization grants, and various other initiatives. Info: bradenaboud.com
This year, Neon Desert Music Festival expands to two days and boasts its most exciting lineup of performers yet, including MGMT, Zedd, A$AP Ferg, Wiz Khalifa, Classixx, Method Man & Redman, Calle 13, Capital Cities, Purity Ring (DJ Set), the Bloody Beetroots, as well as standout local acts the D.A. and Bulletproof Tiger. Gates open in downtown El Paso at 3 pm Saturday and Sunday; Tickets and VIP passes are still available. Info: neondesertmusicfestival.com
28 17
18
Moonlight and Miracles Gala The Moonlight and Miracles Gala is a dinner benefiting BorderRAC at Sunland Park Racetrack and Casino, and this year’s special guest is former NFL superstar Terrell Owens. There will be a meet-andgreet with Owens as well as a silent auction. Tickets are $75. Info: (915) 838-3200 or borderrac.org
202
may 28 - jun. 1
Jersey Boys
may 17 may 18
Hair Wars Supreme Salon Tour Watch as El Paso’s top salons compete down the runway for the title of “Supreme Salon” at the Camino Real Hotel, May 18th from 5 pm to 2 am. Open to ages 21 and up. Info: (915) 591-2015 or supremesalon.com
Winner of the Best Musical Award on Broadway, in London and Australia, this blockbuster phenomenon takes you up the charts, across the country and behind the music of Frankie Valli and the Four Seasons. Jersey Boys plays five nights at the Plaza Theatre from May 28th through June 1st. Info: (915) 231-1111 or elpasolive.com/jerseyboys
www.thecitymagazineelp.com
November, 2013
203
THE CITY MAGAZINE April Launch Party at THE EL PASO CLUB | Photographed by LUIS MIRANDA, JR.
GECU’s Online Financial Education Video Launch
Child Crisis Center Gala at WYNDHAM EL PASO | Photographed by LUIS MIRANDA, JR.
Audi & Jaguar Spring Event Photographed by LUIS MIRANDA, JR.
Enterprising & Professional Women
Black & White Ball at THE EL PASO CLUB | Photographed by TOMMIE MORELOS
YWCA’s 2014 Women’s Luncheon
with speaker Nely Galan at THE JUDSON WILLIAMS CONVENTION CENTER | Photographed by TOMMIE MORELOS
November, 2013
DREAM
IN
BLACK
WEST • 5020 N. Desert Blvd Ste. E| (915) 842-8867 Between Texas Roadhouse and Fuddrucker’s
212
EAST (New!) • 6974 Gateway East Ste. E | (915) 842-8867 Across from Cielo Vista Mall next to Reebok and Ella Blu
www.thecitymagazineelp.com
1122 Airway
•
El Paso, TX
•
778-5341
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