THECITY Magazine El Paso • March 2014

Changing Lives

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FASHION · HEALTH · TRAVEL March, 2014

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

BUSINESS MANAGER COVER: Ernie and Nora Herrera PHOTOGRAPHY BY: Dav Anmed

HAIR BY: David Paul of Quartermane Salon

MAKE UP BY: Claudia Castillo

COVER STORY BY: Meagan Kinley

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 Ryan Heape ryan@thecitymagazineelp.com

Dear Ms. Mozelle,

ADVERTISING EXECUTIVES

I trust this will find you in good health.

First and foremost I would like to express my sincere appreciation for Mr. Sanchez’s wonderful, courteous and highly professional attitude.

As I am writing this letter, I have the pleasure of reading the City Spaces, Home and Design Magazine. I am overwhelmed with the impeccable taste in which this magazine makes a showcase of each page. I am so pleased to see, and this is said with the utmost respect, a magazine that rivals the ones published in major cities such as New York and Dallas and is now part of El Paso.

I wish you continued success.

Congratulations!

Sincerely, Benilde “Bennie” Molina Assistant to the Vice President of Sales Better Business Bureau Paso del Norte

EDITORIAL CONTRIBUTORS

Subscription form can be found on page 46.

“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.

Jacqueline Ramsey jackie@thecitymagazineelp.com Lisa Carrejo lisa@thecitymagazineelp.com Chaz Wilson chaz@thecitymagazineelp.com Sharon Passantino sharon@thecitymagazineelp.com Javier R. Delgado javier@thecitymagazineelp.com Eddie M. Algarin eddie@thecitymagazineelp.com

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.

Felipa Solis, Jannet Bustillos, Grace Neuhaus, Michelle Cromer, Patrick Martínez, Cassie Jean Johnson, Meagan Kinley, Josh Sanchez, Michael Graham, Vic Poulos, Brittany Sawrey, Joann Wardy, Robin Niland, Austin Savage, Marko Morales, Natalie Rosales, Matthew Wilkson, Erika Lopez, Adair Margo, Desiree Lozano, Reed Loney, Meagan Fennell, Valentin Sandoval, Candace Vasquez.

PHOTOGRAPHY Dav Anmed, Robert Corral, Luis Miranda, Jr.,

CONTRIBUTING JUNIOR DESIGNER Ryan Heape

CREATIVE SUPPORT Theresa Guerra, Ibrahim Sánchez

www.thecitymagazineelp.com 2

INTERNS Sara Rueda, Natalie Rosales

March, 2014

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March, 2014

Editor in Chief This March is all about El Paso’s success. With so much going on

in and around our beautiful city, it was so nice to think, reflect and dream on all the wonderful possibilities that are springing up around us. From the new stadium opening it’s doors later this Spring, to UTEP’s continued pursuit of excellence and offering our students the best and newest advances in research and technology, to our blossoming business sector as well as the natural beauty of El Paso and the organic accessibility that are now attainable to us with this changing season—we found as we were compiling notes and ideas for this issue that our city is blooming with stories just waiting to be shared.

We are especially excited to showcase Ernie and Nora Herrera of The Herrera Group, our cover story for this issue. This amazing couple truly embodies the definition of success in their love, devotion, and their high standards of integrity. I have long admired these two, who literally do everything together—from business to picking up the kids from school—not to mention they completely adore each other. It was inspiring to see so much love and philanthropy in El Paso and I am so happy to be able to share their story.

Another nice item of this issue is we have a few new writers in the ranks. As a publication that does it’s best to share the outstanding of our local scene, it’s always nice to expand and welcome new voices into the mix. We are so thankful so many are willing to be apart of our vision for The City and so proud of each of their unique writing styles.

Altogether this issue combines the latest in beauty, style and overall prosperity—seeking to inspire you and yours to reach for the best and make this spring truly unforgettable.

Enjoy this issue!

4

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March, 2014

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NEWS WEATHER SPORTS Just a Click, Swipe, and Tap Away

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March, 2014

contents

40

Profiles

By: THE CITY

24

32 36

The City Features

Nora & Ernie Herrera; Defining Success By: MEAGAN KINLEY

El Paso’s Astronaut Flies Home for a New Mission

Of “Grave” Success Perches Funeral Homes

By: MICHAEL C. GRAHAM

By: ERIKA LOPEZ

How

44 The City

Leading From the Front The El Paso Chihuahuas Front Office Has Our New Dog on a Tight Leash

The City

A Choice Affirmed Martha Vera’s Recovery By: BRITTANY SAWREY

58

The City

The City

More than Cookies Girl Scout Day is March 12 By: BRITTANY SAWREY

8

52 The City

By: MEAGAN KINLEY

52 A Win for the Children of the Esperanza Azteca Orchestra By: MARKO A. MORALES

62 The City

A Strong Voice Las

Christina Woo Building a Legacy at Lydia Patterson Institute By: ADAIR MARGO

68 64

48

is Changing Lives

By: MICHAEL C. GRAHAM

56

The City

The City

By: DESIREE LOZANO

70

Etiquette

Project Management

Demonstrate Maturity to Earn Independence

By: ROBIN NILAND

By: JOANN WARDY

Parenting

72 Investment

Managing Expenses During the College Years By: AGUSTIN MONTES

74

Astrology

Your Astrological Calling in Life By: GRACE THE PSYCHIC LADY

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March, 2014

Food

Healthy, Easy Chips & Crisps

78 Fitness

76

Hearing Your Call and Following Your Dreams

Train the Brain The Importance of Having a Strong Mind for a Strong Body

By: MICHELLE CROMER

By: PATRICK L. MARTINEZ

Spirituality

CELEBRITIES,

ATHLETES and

Wine By: VIC POULOS

104 Beauty

How To Contour Your Face

80

88

84 Wine

By: MEAGAN KINLEY

100

look

MEN’S PREROGATIVE

By: JOSH SANCHEZ

By: MATTHEW WILKSON

108 Love

Travel

What you Should do After a Breakup

By: CASSIE JEAN JOHNSON

Castles and Kilts History of Haggis: A Trip to Edinburgh

By: JANNET BUSTILLOS

By: REED LONEY

118 The City

Beware of the Ides of March

120 The City

Permaculture Untapping The City’s Potential

By: BRITTANY SAWREY

124 Zoo

A Wild Gift for Military Families By: BRITTANY SAWREY

112

By: VALENTIN SANDOVAL

126 The City

The Secret Life of Birds By: MEAGAN KINLEY

IN&OUT 96 By: NATALIE ROSALES

Artist Spotlight

138 Sports

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142

The El Paso Crush All-Star National Champions

The City

By: MEAGAN FENNELL

By: AUSTIN SAVAGE

Maker of Memories UTEP’s Johnny Melvin

By: MARKO A. MORALES

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March, 2014

The Contributors

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2

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10

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1) Michael C. Graham 2) GRACE The Psychic Lady 3) FELIPA SOLIS 4) Meagan Kinley 5) MICHELLE CROMER 6) DAV ANMED 7) Victor Poulos

8) JANNET BUSTILLOS 9) Josh Sanchez 10) PATRICK L. MARTINEZ 11) Robert Corral 12) Adair Margo 13) Candace Vasquez

13 12

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March, 2014

El Paso

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March, 2014

1

For full contributor bios go to www.thecitymagazineelp.com

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15

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14) Erika Lopez 15) Valentin Sandoval 16) Meagan Fennell 17) Desiree Lozano 18) CASSIE JEAN JOHNSON 19) Brittany Sawrey 20) Robin Niland 21) LUIS MIRANda, jr.

22) Joann Wardy 23) Marko morales 24) Reed Loney 25) Natalie Rosales 26) Matthew Wilkson 27) austin savage www.thecitymagazineelp.com

March, 2014

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The City WEDDINGS 2014

March, 2014

The City Magazine brings you

El Paso’s

1st Bridal Magazine of its kind!

The City Weddings is El Paso’s premiere new local wedding guide.

Find everything you will need for your big day and find out what are the latest trends, colors, fashions and more!

The City Weddings is your guide to El Paso’s best wedding vendors – wedding gowns, flowers, venues, cakes, and so much more!

See some of El Paso’s best weddings of local El Pasoans.

One Bridal Magazine, Two Beautiful Covers!

Pick up your “2014 Bridal Guide” at your local Walgreens!

Interested in being part of The City Weddings 2015? Contact us at info@thecitymagazineelp.com THE CITY MAGAZINE 20

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March, 2014

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Nora and Ernie Herrera A WEALTH OF LOVE

& SUCCESS

| By: MEAGAN KINLEY photography by: DAV ANMED | hile many believe climbing

W

to see her so he did what he had to do and

“By this time I was down to two dollars and

the corporate ladder and

dug deep into his pockets for change. After

everyone started asking me to stop for food,

expanding the 0’s in one’s

gassing up his car in preparation for the drive

so we went to Whataburger and I got nervous

monthly income are the

across the border, he was left with $11—

because I still thought we were on a date.”

clearest indicators of achievement and

not bad considering at the time, Juárez was

happiness, two of El Paso’s most successful

famous among Americans for it’s five-cent

Determined to be a chivalrous gentlemen

business

shots and one-dollar beers.

and treat her like a lady, Ernie asked Nora

individuals

are

defining

their

what she would like to eat and went to the

prosperity by a different and unexpected

counter sweating bullets.

standard. But to understand their vision, one

“The story I was told was that we were on a

must start at the very beginning . . .

blind date—” began Ernie.

Ernie and Nora met while attending school

“—But I didn’t know we were on a date,

out to two dollars and twenty-four cents,”

at the University of Texas at El Paso. While

I thought he was just my cousin’s friend

Ernie remembered. “So I pulled out my last

they both had been admitted to out-of-state

hanging out with us,” laughed Nora.

two dollars and scrounged my wallet and

“I went to the counter and the order came

pockets and found my last quarter—I ended

schools for their merit and hard work—Nora to Stanford and Ernie to Caltech—destiny

When they got to Juárez, Ernie paid Nora’s

the night with a single penny. It was amazing.

intervened in each of their lives and UTEP

cover charge and asked her what she would

I went back to the table with her burger and

became their home. On one particular

like to drink—expecting her to order one

fries relieved and proud.”

day when Ernie was hanging out at the

of the nightly specials, his heart fell when

University’s Student Union, he saw Nora

she ordered a $4 drink—one of the most

“It was so funny,” began Nora. “He literally

out of the corner of his eye. Feeling brave,

expensive on the menu. But as they talked

went home from our first date with a penny

he tried to start a conversation, but being a

and got to know one another, Ernie knew she

to spare. At the time I was very very shy—it

shy undergraduate and wary of strangers,

was worth every penny.

meant a lot that we connected in the way we did. We instantly became best friends.”

Nora didn’t even acknowledge his presence.

As luck would have it, he knew a girl that

“As we started talking, we just hit it off. I had

happened to be Nora’s cousin who hinted

just gotten out of a relationship and she had

The next day, Ernie called Nora to invite

that Nora could possibly be convinced to go

just gotten out of a relationship so neither

her to a movie—but it being Sunday, Nora’s

on a blind date.

one of us wanted to jump into anything

grandmother told her she couldn’t go out

serious,” Ernie explained.

unless she first went to Mass. Determined yet again, Ernie found a Mass at St. Joseph’s

Some time after their first encounter, he got

that they could attend prior to the movie.

the call from Nora’s cousin telling him that

Throughout the night the group laughed

they were all going to Juárez to go dancing

and danced. On their way back to the U.S,

and that Nora would be joining them—

Ernie immediately drove for the free bridge—

“It was perfect and so nice because we went

believing that this would be their first blind

but with the heavy traffic of immigrating

to church together and then the movie—

date. At the time Ernie was paying his way

Americans going home and a car full of tired

and it was so ironic because the first Mass

through school by working three jobs. He

girls, he was pressured to go across the toll

we attended together was at St. Joseph’s,

was crestfallen when he realized that he was

bridge instead, and subsequently forfeited

where years later, our children would attend

literally out of money. He was determined

more of his remaining change.

school,” Nora said.

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March, 2014

From there the couple spent as much time

degree as well and decided to double major

Nora and Ernie fulfilled Nora’s grandmother’s

together as possible—studying in the library

in Marketing and Finance. As time went on,

wish and waited until after graduation to

and attending the same classes.

their relationship got more serious. One day,

tie the knot—both of them working 40+

Nora’s grandmother who was the pillar of her

hours a week and maintaining 18 hours of

“I was originally an Engineering major,”

family and really the oracle of her entire life,

undergraduate course work in their final year

recalled Ernie. “I took an accounting elective

pulled her aside and made a request.

at UTEP.

made sense. Whatever we learned in class

“My grandmother was very wise. Right

“We were so burnt out after that last

I saw in real life. I loved it so much that I

before she passed away she took me aside

semester—we both thought we wanted to

actually changed my major and I crammed in

and said, ‘this guy is your gift from God—you

go to law school but decided to take a year

a business degree in two years.”

guys are meant to be together. I want to give

off to save money and recuperate from all

course to be with her and the economics just

you my blessing; but I ask one thing of you,

the stress,” remembered Ernie. “My Finance

With such a dramatic change in degree, Ernie

don’t get married until after you graduate

professor gave my name to a recruiter to sell

would invariably need to take more time to

from college.’”

life insurance for New York Life while Nora

finish school, so Nora resolved to prolong her

26

was working for a local attorney. It was hard

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March, 2014

because I found myself many times driving

he sees things that no one else does. I saw

quit her job working for the attorney and was

out to the middle of nowhere, where often

the fire he had for it. Life insurance was a

hired by the Upper Rio Grande Workforce

people would ignore me and not answer

tool he could use to fix his client’s financial

Division as an accountant. Within her first

the door–I even got chased by dogs. All my

problems—from saving money for their kids,

year she became the contract specialist and

friends would ask me ‘when are you going to

to retirement, to estate planning. It wasn’t

within a few months after that, the contract

get a real job?’”

pushing a product. He would redo people’s

manager.

budgets, help with credit, and refinance “Ernie was recruited at a career day at

mortgages; just to help them get to a point

“I became the one who ran the whole

UTEP,” recalled Nora. “We had to find our

where they could start saving money. It

contract division for the Upper Rio Grande. I

own way. After we got married, we bought

became an overhaul of everything finance.

would sit down with Fortune 100 companies

a house and began building our life. At the

He became the psychologist, the attorney,

and tell their attorneys what to put in the

time, my job was the steady income. I

the CPA and the financial advisor.”

contracts. I consolidated the contracts and the process—I loved what I was doing.

always saw something in him that he didn’t even see. He just has a God-given talent for

After a few years, things picked up and Ernie,

Then we had our first two children and my

everything in the financial realm. Even today,

a natural in the field of finance, did well. Nora

motherly instinct began to kick in. I continued

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March, 2014

working but as I traveled and started missing

wide financial advisors. “The business was

Ernie. The first day she respectfully came

different activities with the kids, I started

doing good and everything seemed to be

in and fired many of the members of his

getting pulled back toward home. On a career

working out for everyone,” explained Ernie.

staff. “I couldn’t find anything—but overtime

level, I was moving where I wanted to and

“Since the company was going through

and after a brief overhaul we smoothed

Ernie was great with the kids, but I knew I had

some changes, and Nora clearly wanted to

everything out and it worked wonderfully

to resign.”

get back in the workplace, I had the idea of

because I was able to organize the business

bringing her on part time as our CFO.”

and he was able to go to learning seminars and conferences and use his God-given

After being home for a while she began to miss the job and the challenges she loved.

Eager to get back into the business world,

At the time Ernie was one of the top nation-

Nora took the job and began working for

28

talent. It’s worked well since.”

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March, 2014

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March, 2014

“My grandmother, was very wise. Right before she passed away she took me aside and said, ‘this guy is your gift from God—you guys are meant to be together. I want to give you my blessing; but I ask one thing of you for me, don’t get married until after you graduate from college.’”

30

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March, 2014 From moving to their new location in 2008 to growing and developing their business strategy, Nora and Ernie have done everything together. This forward motion brought them to another huge career move, the decision to open their own firm.

“The decision to start The Herrera Group really helped us because we were now able to serve our clients in the way we saw fit,” explained Ernie. “Now we can be as creative and inventive as we want to be. Our referrals come directly from CPAs, attorneys, and banks. We have banks from all over the world call us and ask for our concepts. We think outside of the box and that is what makes us different.”

“He’s very passionate about what he does,” Nora smiled. “He’s not just selling something. It’s the trust you have to earn.

Each day, each client. People ask us all the time, ‘Why El Paso?’ Here we are able to be parents first. Ernie and I love spending time together and our children are our first priority—that balance is what makes success to us.”

Their success and philanthropy has given them the opportunity to travel and meet both political and influential people throughout the U.S. and the rest of the world; from Hilary Clinton, to Newt Gingrich, Colin Powell, Charles Spencer (brother of the late Princess Diana), Benazir Bhutto, the late 11th Prime Minister of Pakistan who was assassinated for her brave leadership and undying belief in democracy and more. From the last penny of their first date to the wealth of their rare, harmonious companionship, their four beautiful children, and the overflow of their business success and generous philanthropy—Ernie and Nora continue to live a life built out of determination, hard work, perseverance, and love.

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March, 2014

d a n n y o l i va s

EL PASO’S ASTRONAUT FLIES HOME FOR A NEW MISSION | By: MICHAEL C. GRAHAM |

A

lthough much of the current discussion regarding our wonderful city’s development and growth

strategies have centered on the downtown arena, with good reason as it is certainly a significant portion of the strategy and dollars, we would be very remiss if we did not point out one of the major developments at UTEP, which is also enjoying a significant development and growth phase. Hopefully, you have had a chance to see first-hand some of the major infrastructure developments,

is perhaps the most recognized academic

John “Danny” Olivas, PhD, PE, holds

including the Centennial Plaza, continued

research and oversight organization, and

a Bachelor’s of Science in mechanical

work on the Student Recreation Center, the

they seek to classify and assist in properly

engineering from UTEP; a Master’s of

new street and parking lot work, as well as

identifying and describing the vast number

Science in mechanical engineering from

the announcement of a new Student housing

of institutions of higher learning in the

the University of Houston, and a Ph.D.

complex that will house 352 students that

United States. In UTEP’s broad category

in Mechanical Engineering and Materials

began the bid process just this February.

of doctoral granting universities, there are

Science from Rice University. He is one of

To say the least, as their website indicates,

three classifications, of which UTEP falls into

only seven Hispanics to fly into space, logging

UTEP is on the move.

the middle category: Research Universities

more than 11 million miles in the process,

with High Research Activity. So it is fitting

and he is one of only a very few to have had

Perhaps even more critical to the growth

that our homegrown astronaut, a graduate

the opportunity to perform multiple space

and development plan, more so than the

of UTEP himself, is returning to UTEP to

walks. His commitment to research and

physical facilities, is the expansion of the

serve as Director of the new Center for the

education is nothing new, he has consistently

research and collaborative projects for which

Advancement of Space Safety and Mission

advocated

major universities are known. The Carnegie

Assurance Research (CASSMAR).

Technology, Engineering and Mathematics)

Foundation for the Advancement of Teaching www.thecitymagazineelp.com

for

strong

STEM

(Science,

programs at all educational levels, and 33

d a n n y o l i va s

March, 2014

speaks to audiences young and old about

In remarks made during the announcement

the importance of solid foundations in those

of the project, Dr. Olivas noted what may

disciplines, and how important they will be in

seem to be a strange fact: that although

the future. He is also the author of a children’s

we have been engaged in space travel for

book titled Endeavour’s Long Journey, a story

roughly 50 years, we still “know very little

about space exploration designed to pique

about it.” As a result, the students in the

the interest of children and hopefully inspire

program will have “a lot of great research

them to pursue technical fields.

in front of them …The students will do the research under the guidance of professors

In his capacity as Director of CASSMAR,

and we have a number of great topics we

he will help lead a Center whose focus

are going to start working on” and will be

is dedicated towards making commercial

“very important to the future of spaceflight

space flight safe and successful. The Center

and give the students great experience in a

will focus on risk reduction investigations

growing field.”

for commercial human spaceflight. They

34

will utilize a multi-disciplinary approach, and

CASSMAR is an example of what powerful

will involve other departments from the

projects

UTEP faculty, including Dr. Ann Gates from

collaborative model, and leveraging the

Computer Sciences, Dr. Steve Stafford from

research capabilities of academic institutions.

Material Sciences, and Dr. Aaron Velasco

And I, for one, am incredibly thrilled at not

from Geological Sciences. The Center’s first

only the broader opportunities and potential

project will be to analyze and investigate

for UTEP and its students that CASSMAR

much of the material from Space Shuttle

and programs of its type bring, but am also

Columbia that disintegrated during its re-

very honored to welcome our hometown

entry process following a mission in 2003.

astronaut back to the Sun City. Welcome

The accident produced debris scattered over

home Dr. Olivas! We are happy to have you

2000 separate locations.

lead this exciting program.

can

be

undertaken

using

a

www.thecitymagazineelp.com

March, 2014

www.thecitymagazineelp.com

35

March, 2014

OF GRAVE SUCCESS | By: ERIKA LOPEZ photos courtesy of: PERCHES FUNERAL HOMES |

36

www.thecitymagazineelp.com

o f “ g r av e ” s u c c e s s

March, 2014

E

very legend has spoken words that

of drug trade genocide, Perches embraced

influence the world to aspire for

the border city. “That’s where our family

bigger and better dreams. But, for

started,” Perches said; crediting Juarez for

El Paso native, Salvador Perches,

his business’ success “so it was just a way

it is not his words that inspire, it

of giving back to the community.” It was

is his actions. Known as “Sal Perches” to

30-years ago that Perches’ father began

many, it is his philanthropic nature that he is

the tradition to offer no cost burial services

remembered by and honored for. In recent

to the elderly who died in a government-

months the name, Salvador Perches, has

owned nursing home in Juárez. Additionally,

become a household name and rightfully so,

Perches continues to deliver

after being celebrated as Funeral Director

low cost funeral services for

of the Year by American Funeral Director

the indigent as well as to

magazine along with Entrepreneur of the

the families of border city

Year at UT San Diego’s second annual San

violence victims.

Diego Latino Champions Awards ceremony.

Although, the selection of a winner was

When most abandoned the

a tough decision, it was, “Sal Perches’

“most dangerous city in the

devotion to the communities he serves, his

world,” Perches continued

charitable work and his efforts day in and day

to work through the violence

out exemplifies what we see from many of

to serve his community and

the unsung heroes of funeral service,” said

his reasoning was simple.

Thomas A. Parmalee, executive director of

He recollects ‘The Story of

Kates-Boylston Publications. Even amidst his

the Hummingbird,’ a fable

success, Perches always takes a moment to

his father would tell him as a

thank and remember the city that started it all.

child and through this fable, Perches quickly learned the

Having grown up in the funeral industry,

words he continues to live

Salvador

by, “I am doing what I can.”

Perches

naturally

consumed

every ounce of the business that he could; helping his father with day-to-day business

But, doing what he can is surely an

transactions and tasks, including purchasing

understatement with nearly 350 employees

of caskets and vehicles. But, emerging

nationwide and more than 3,000 funeral

into the funeral industry at a young age

services a year. Salvador Perches currently

came with a unique perspective on life and

owns and operates 18 La Paz and Perches

circumstance. Perches recalls a time when

Funeral homes, 10 of which are located in

he was picked up from school in a hearse and

Juárez. Along with four crematories, one of

spending summer vacations visiting funeral

which specializes in pets, a casket factory in

homes and cemeteries. But, it was Perches’

Monterey, Mexico, and monument business,

sister, Dr. Laura Perches, whose words

Perches continues to own and operate the

embody what growing up in the industry is

first embalming school in Juárez, which he

really like, “I think it gives you a perspective

founded alongside his father. But, this is

that you can’t complain or sweat the small

certainly no sign of Perches slowing down,

things in life. You are not going to have a

as he is currently working on a new project,

pity party with us.” It was after all, Perches’

“Grupo Perches,” which is predominantly

sister who nominated him for his benevolent

aimed to helping families and children

efforts that follow in their father’s legacy.

who have lost relatives due to the ongoing violence in the border city.

During a time of despair for Juárez, when most wouldn’t dare to enter into the crossfire www.thecitymagazineelp.com

Coming from a background of parents who 37

o f “ g r av e ” s u c c e s s

March, 2014

Sal Perches’ devotion to the communities he serves, his charitable work and his efforts day in and day out exemplifies what we see from many of the unsung heroes of funeral service. migrated into the United States from Mexico

emulated his father’s actions and now serves

in search of the American dream, it is without

as a mentor for aspiring funeral directors and

hesitation that Salvador Perches has lived up

business owners alike. Alex Licon, funeral

to his parent’s expectations and has certainly

director of Perches-La Paz Funeral Home in

served them proud. At the time of his father’s

San Diego, California exemplifies everything

passing in 2000, Perches’ father left a legacy

that Perches’ success stands for, as Licon

behind for his family that consisted of five

recalls Perches being a mentor to him since

funeral homes – which Salvador has now

he was a high school student in El Paso. It

evolved to 18.

was Perches who opened the doors to Licon and provided him with the tools and support full

to guide him into a path after his own heart.

accountability for his success – crediting his

In the nomination letter for funeral director of

father for his knowledge and work ethic that

the year, Licon stated, “I know that if I can

has made him the funeral director he is now,

follow his example, do my job with energy

“thanks to my father and his teachings, I

and honesty, further success is inevitable.”

Humbly,

Perches

does

not

take

have been able to grow and I’ll never forget his knowledge and hard work.” Reminiscing

Salvador Perches can be described as

about his father as “an innovator in his time”

a

when speaking about the funeral industry

businessman, with a few new additions as

in Mexico, “he was the first in the northern

Funeral Director of the Year and Entrepreneur

area of Mexico to practice embalming.”

of the Year. But, behind every great man, there

When asked what inspires his success,

is a family, whom without, success would

Perches states, “my father is still my biggest

not be as rewarding – Perches’ wife Erika,

inspiration.”

who is a funeral director alongside Perches

funeral

industry

trailblazer,

ingenious

and their three daughters; Elisa, 14, Marcela,

38

Taking his father as inspiration has led

11; and Amelie, 5. It is indisputably so, that

Salvador Perches to become a pioneer in

Salvador Perches epitomizes everything El

the industry and just as his father continues

Paso stands for – humility, community, and

to serve as his role model, Perches has

compassion for others. www.thecitymagazineelp.com

March, 2014

Ton of Linens we’ ve got you covered

5800 Doniphan Street | El PA so, T x | 915 727 4587 tonoflinens@live.com

MARCH 50

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Come and Dance with us!

Jazz • Ballet • Tap Hip hop • Aerial

www.thecitymagazineelp.com

Any questions? Call 915 585 1911 39 6910 North Mesa St#79912 (behind Dollar General)

March, 2014

PR

files

March, 2014

Sandra Terrazas, PT, MBA Spectrum Therapy Consultants

“The mission of Spectrum Therapy Consultants is to provide focus driven patient care in an ethical and professional manner.”

With the motto “quality matters,” Sandra

Paso. “This location is going to offer El Paso

knows every patient’s name—even if that

Terrazas and her team at Spectrum Therapy

something it’s never seen before,” explained

person isn’t their patient. We are a team and

Consultants are raising the bar of Physical

Terrazas. “In addition to our excellent

we work hard to treat our patients like our

Therapy treatment for the city and people

customer

physical

own family,” said Terrazas. This innovative

of El Paso. With a Bachelors of Science in

therapy options, we are adding a Spectrum

concept will satisfy patients’ and clients’

Physical Therapy from Texas Tech University

Fitness Center where people can come and

rehab and fitness needs, in a professional

Health Sciences Center, a Masters of

workout with knowledgeable, certified and

environment.

Science in Kinesiology from the University

experienced personal trainers who can help

of Texas at El Paso and an MBA from the

you achieve the right fitness goals for your

Spectrum Therapy Consultants

University of Phoenix, Terrazas is both

needs.” In this facility, patients will have

www.spectrumtherapyconsultants.com

qualified in the field of Physical Therapy and

monthly heart rate, blood pressure, weight

specialized business expertise.

and anthropometric measurements to show

West

their progress and goal attainment.

7430 Remcon Cir.

service

and

regular

(915) 231-2285

With 20 years in the business of healthcare and two locations (one on El Paso’s

You will not regret choosing Spectrum

northeast and other on the west), she and

Therapy to meet your Physical Therapy

North East

her staff of certified and licensed healthcare

needs. On top of their unique customer

9870 Gateway North, Ste. B

professionals are excited to announce the

service, they are proud of the team dynamic

(915) 313-4510

expansion of their business to central El

they share. “Everyone member of our staff

By: MEAGAN KINLEY photographed by: ROBERT CORRAL

SPECIAL ADVERTISING | 41

March, 2014

Total Orthotic & Prosthetic Solutions, Inc. “Our patients feel at home here. We take that extra step to make our business personal.”

Total Orthotic and Prosthetic Solutions, Inc.

Formed with a mold of components including

Total Orthotic and Prosthetic Solutions is an

is a home-grown company with humble

perseverance, integrity and commitment,

accredited facility which employs all board

beginnings, a quality which is very much

coupled with the strong faith of its owners,

certified and state licensed professionals.

reflective of its owners, native El Pasoans,

the support of family and friends and the

They are certified in all the latest technologies

Miguel and Susan Guerra. Miguel and Susan

generosity of local lending establishments,

and have an all bilingual staff, as well as one

both attended UTEP where Miguel earned

Total Orthotic and Prosthetic Solutions has

sign language interpreter.

a degree in Business and Susan in Nursing.

grown into the successful thriving business

Following their time at UTEP, Miguel went

it is today. “Our original 5 employees are

Total Orthotic & Prosthetic Solutions, Inc.

on to attend Texas Southwestern in Dallas

still with us today,” shared Susan. “We now

Hours of Operation: Monday - Friday 8am - 5pm

where he studied orthotics and prosthetics

employ 9 people (11, including ourselves)

totalorthoticandprostheticsolutions.com

and received his Bachelors of Science.

and have 2 locations.”

900 E. Yandell

After his graduation from UTSW in May 1996

Celebrating its 10th year in business this March,

El Paso, TX 79902

and subsequent residencies in Dallas, Guerra

Miguel and Susan’s business has set out to

Phone: (915) 541-8677

and his wife returned home to El Paso.

become, and has fully realized its potential

Fax: (915) 541-8678

Utilizing their education and skills, along with

as one of the best orthotic and prosthetic

their desire to help their community, Miguel

businesses in town. “Our patients feel at home

1393 George Dieter Ste C

and Susan set out to found Total Orthotic and

here,” explained Susan. “We take that extra

El Paso, TX 79936

Prosthetic Solutions. On March 8, 2004, with a

step to make our business personal.”

Phone: (915) 595-0730

staff of 5 employees, their dream manifested.

42 | SPECIAL ADVERTISING

Fax: (915) 595-0732 By: CANDACE VASQUEZ photographed by: ROBERT CORRAL

March, 2014

Frank Spencer III, President Aztec Contractors, Inc.

“Building on a Strong Foundation.”

Frank Spencer III’s success story is currently

federal contract work and has even opened a

Aztec Contractors

being written outside everyday in the

new office in San Marcos, California. “We’ve

AztecContractors.com

concrete jungle of the growing city of El Paso.

had our fair share of obstacles,” explained

Spencer, the owner of Aztec Contractors,

Spencer. “It took years for us to get our foot

1200 Wyoming Ave.

Inc., and his dedicated team have taken

in the door in El Paso—but the hard times

(915) 557-9685

Aztec to new heights with an unparalleled

have taught us so much. These experiences

level of service. “In everything we do—every

truly separate us from our competition.”

contract we sign, every job we complete— we put a strong emphasis on accountability

In his eight years as president of Aztec

and try to exude professionalism, character,

Contractors, Spencer has attained the 2009

integrity and respect for everyone on the

Contractor of the Year by the Hispanic

site.” This dedication to detail has certainly

Chamber of Commerce, the 2013 Minority

paid off. Not only does Spencer personally

Constructions Award and has even been

sit down with every employee and potential

listed as a Top 500 Hispanic Business. On

client, but he also goes the extra mile to

top of their spectacular customer service,

make sure that everything, from start to

Spencer and his team still make time to give

finish, is done right. Today Aztec Contractors

back to El Paso. “We do all we can to stay

has broken ground into the residential (single

involved in the community that has given us

and multi-family units), commercial and even

so much,” said Spencer.

By: MEAGAN KINLEY photographed by: ROBERT CORRAL

SPECIAL ADVERTISING | 43

LEADING FRONT FROM THE

The El Paso Chihuahuas Front office has our new dog on a tight leash 44

| By: MICHAEL C. GRAHAM |

C

onsider the following scenario for a moment: it is May 28, 2013, and

you are the General Manager of a professional sports team and you are

expected to begin playing in roughly 11 months, in a stadium that is not yet built and has, in fact, not even broken ground yet ... You have no roster, as that is essentially reset every year at the AAA level. You

have very little front office staff at this point, as the hiring of key positions has just begun in earnest. You are brand new to the community and have left your family behind at your last hometown for a brief period, allowing kids to finish school while you get started on your new gig. Oh, and your team does not have a name yet, so you have no merchandise to sell, which also means there is not any marketing campaign built yet to help you sell season tickets, and gather corporate sponsors that are so key to the minor league world.

If you can somehow imagine all of those variables, and what that might feel like, then you are beginning to get an idea of what Brad Taylor’s world was like last May, as the new general manager of the yet unnamed El Paso Chihuahuas. But after a brief visit with him recently, I can assure you that our www.thecitymagazineelp.com

March, 2014

new team is in great hands, and that they are

Brad’s side of the house, of course,

set to deliver a great team to the Sun City,

is everything that happens, with

as fast as humanly possible. As the name

the

suggests, his front office will be very much

between the foul lines. There can be

leading from the front.

some tension, in some cases, between

exception

of

what

happens

what happens in the front office and Brad will be entering his 20th season in

what happens with field level or player

the action.” In his opinion, the credit for that

baseball when the Chihuahuas take the

management. However, Brad spoke very

vision and commitment belongs to MSSG,

field for the first time, and his experience is

highly of Pat Murphy, the Chihuahuas’

and to their selection of Alan Ledford as

clearly showing. In particular, his expertise in

manager who will be entering his second

team president. MSSG had worked with

Bowling Green, Kentucky, with the Bowling

season with the team in that role. “We

Ledford during the acquisition phase of the

Green Hot Rods is certainly coming into play,

both have the same desire,” Brad remarked

process, and saw his experience in leading

as he was involved in that organization’s

about Pat; “To deliver the best team and the

Sacramento through similar circumstances

rolling out of a new facility, and all of the

best fan experience to the community.”

as being invaluable.

marketing and project management that

Any discussion of organizational leadership

Brad also saw as a very positive sign how

goes along with that situation. He also spent

with regards to the Chihuahuas must also

popular their employment opportunities have

a significant amount of time with the Trenton

include the ownership group, and the

been received within the community and

Thunder; the New Jersey based AA affiliate

team president. Mountain Star Sports

nationally. As an example, Brad mentioned

of the New York Yankees. His time in Trenton

Group (MSSG) has been consistent and

Becky

will hopefully provide a blueprint for him with

dedicated to bringing a quality team to

partnerships for the team, who came to the

regards to consistency, as in 2006 the Thunder

the community, and giving El Pasoans a

Chihuahuas with a significant amount of

became the first team in minor league history,

recreational and sporting experience that

collegiate and NBA front office experience.

AA level or below, to draw over 400,000 fans

they have never before had access to. As

The Chihuahuas are simply an exciting place

for 12 consecutive seasons. And they did so

Brad remarked to me, “this is going to be

to be, in any capacity.

in a park with a capacity of just over 6400,

a major league experience, with a major

compared to El Paso’s new stadium, which

league quality stadium, with a good number

Next month we will hopefully take a closer

will have approximately 7500 fixed seats,

of major league players. You will just

look at the ballpark itself and perhaps

and hold even more counting standing room

be a lot, lot closer to the action, and pay

at some of the key roster spots if they

and other areas. As we discussed these and

less for the ticket.” As a bit of a baseball

are set yet. But for now, I hope you join

other pieces of the massive puzzle that is

junkie, and having been to a fairly decent

me in celebrating the excitement of our

a professional sports team at this level, he

number of MLB stadiums over the years,

new team, and the vision its leadership is

remarked to me during our conversation,

I can absolutely attest to one simple fact:

demonstrating. In just a few short weeks,

general manager of a sports team may be

MLB stadiums keep getting bigger, which

it will be a wonderful thing indeed to hear

the most accurate position description in

puts a lot more people even farther away.

those two simple words come from the

any industry, because “I generally manage

But not in this park, as, in Brad’s words

everything on this side of the house.”

“you will feel like you are right on top of

combination management, public relations,

www.thecitymagazineelp.com

Lee,

the

director

of

corporate

home plate umpire’s mouth: Play

Ball!

45

November, 2013

46

www.thecitymagazineelp.com

November, 2013

#

42

Care for your business as you would your family.

Together let’s create a plan for your business and the future of those who help it grow.

Elizabeth Dipp Metzger* President/ Financial Adviser Crown Wealth Strategies** 303 N Oregon Ste 1100 El Paso, TX 79901 (915) 541-3338 emetzger@ft.newyorklife.com crownwealthstrategies.com

SMRU496908(Exp.01/11/2015) Š 2013 New York Life Insurance Company, 51 Madison Avenue, New York, NY 10010

Life Insurance. Retirement. Investments.

*Financial Adviser offering investment advisory services through Eagle Strategies LLC, a Registered Investment Adviser, Registered Representative offering investments through NYLIFE Securities LLC (member FINRA/SIPC), A Licensed Insurance Agency and wholly owned subsidiary of New York Life Insurance and an agent licensed to sell insurance through New York Life Insurance Company and may be licensed to sell insurance through various other independent unaffiliated companies. **Crown Wealth Strategies is not owned or operated by New York Life Insurance Company or its affiliates. SMRU496908 (Exp.01/11/2015)

Crown Wealth Strategies 47

ElizabethDippMetzger_097399_LL42_Co-Brand_DBA_8x10_News_V_Co.indd 1

1/8/14 12:17 PM

How

48

March, 2014

is

www.thecitymagazineelp.com

March, 2014

Changing Lives | By: MEAGAN KINLEY photos courtesy of: BRITTANY VARGAS |

“We grant the wishes of children with life-threatening medical conditions to enrich the human experience with hope, strength and joy.”

Their Mission

The Make-A-Wish Foundation was created in 1982 to honor and inspire children between the ages of 2 ½ and 18 with complex medical conditions, giving a child and his or her family an experience beyond their wildest dreams, while also fully covering any and all financial costs. For the last twenty years the organization has grown, granting wishes all over the United States and most recently even opening a new office in our very own El Paso, Texas. Make-A-Wish North Texas serves 161 counties in North, East and West Texas and has granted more than 7,000 wishes.

Make-A-Wish North Texas serves children who have life threatening medical conditions.

Over the years, it’s been amazing to see how the foundation has grown and changed.

Many of the kids who have had wishes granted grow up and give amazing testimonials of how the foundation changed their outlook on their situation, their willingness to fight, and ultimately, their life. Statistics have shown amazing results for these children with 74% of wish parents observing that after their child was gifted a wish, the wish marked a “turning point” in their children’s response to treatment. 81% of parents remarked on an increased willingness by their child to comply with their treatment protocols. 91% of parents observed that their wish experience decreased their children’s depression or sadness and finally 96% of parents said that their wish actually strengthened their family.

Be a Part of the Vision The El Paso area has a surprisingly small number of referrals and our local office hopes to change that. The process is amazingly simple. First a child is referred to the organization either by a doctor, family member, friend, or even their own parents. After the children’s parents grant permission for the referral, their physician or supervising www.thecitymagazineelp.com

49

m a k e - a - w i s h f o u n d at i o n

50

March, 2014

www.thecitymagazineelp.com

m a k e - a - w i s h f o u n d at i o n

March, 2014

doctor will approve and verify the referral and the foundation will begin putting the child’s wish into motion. Wishes have been granted as quickly as 48 hours to several months.

To keep this amazing foundation growing and going, they are recruiting volunteers/Wish Granters now! As a Wish Granter you are given the chance to work directly with the El Paso office by meeting with various children and their families and helping to make each wish as unique and special as possible. Imagine being able to make the difference in a child’s life by creating an unforgettable experience they will remember forever.

There are four different types of wishes that children get to pick from:

To Go:

To Be:

To Meet:

To Have:

I wish to go to Walt Disney

I wish to be a firefighter,

I wish to meet a favorite

I wish to have a computer,

World Resorts, Hollywood,

a police officer, dancer, athlete,

athlete, actor, author, singer,

bicycle, bedroom set, puppy,

a sporting event, Hawaii, etc.

actor, princess, etc.

politician, etc.

video game, etc.

On top of being able to volunteer, the organization

also

accepts

donations

of

Southwest Airlines Frequent Flyer Miles

villa accommodations boasts a 24 hour ice

diagnostics done. To their amazement and

cream parlor, a miniature train, arts, crafts,

joy not only were Brandon’s numbers good,

and more!

but the doctor also informed them that they would now be proceeding to his final stage of

to go towards paying for the travel of the children and the families they transport to

During Brandon’s stay in the happiest place

treatment, which will be much less intensive

and from their wishes.

in the world, the weather didn’t always

and last for the next two years.

cooperate, but not even rain could stop There are 25,000 volunteers throughout the

Brandon, his mother Brittany, and father

“We were so happy and shocked, and I just

nation. In whatever capacity you can, being

Jose from having the best vacation they

know his positive test results correlated with

a part of El Paso’s growing Make-A-Wish

could imagine. Not only did he get to meet

the trip,” Brittany said. “Since this awesome

vision is a wonderful investment of time and

Spiderman, but they were also allowed to

organization entered our lives, Brandon has

resources.

enter each of the parks early to meet any and

been so much happier and so much stronger.

all of the characters he wished to see.

We don’t even have the words to describe

One of Our Own

how thankful we are to the Make-A-Wish “We had such an amazing time,” explained

experience and everything they have done to

Three-year-old Brandon Vargas was one of

Brittany, Brandon’s mom. “We got to go

help Brandon. We are so incredibly blessed.”

the most recent El Paso citizens to have

to Universal Studios, Animal Kingdom and

had a wish granted. For his wish, Brandon

the Magic Kingdom—Brandon’s absolute

wanted nothing more than to meet his two

favorite was the Magic Kingdom. I have

heroes, Spiderman and of course Mickey

never seen my son’s face light up the way it

Make-A-Wish North Texas

Mouse and visit the magical Disney World in

did. Getting this trip was such a gift—not just

310 Mesa St. Suite 411

Orlando, Florida. This being a popular wish,

for Brandon, but also for our entire family. It

El Paso, TX 79901

the foundation has taken the extra time to

was wonderful.”

Office: 915.855.8702

give their Disney wishers an all inclusive seven day vacation, tickets to all the parks

A few days after returning to El Paso,

and a complimentary stay at Give Kids The

Brandon accompanied by mom went back

World Village, which among it’s beautiful

to the doctor and had his blood work and

www.thecitymagazineelp.com

For questions, referrals, or more info:

Fax: 915-855-8704 www.ntx.wish.org

51

A Win For The Children Of The Esperanza Azteca Orchestra March, 2014

| By: MARKO A. MORALES photography by: LANCE LEVINE and MARKO MORALES |

52

www.thecitymagazineelp.com

March, 2014

M

usic can do so many interesting and amazing things to the soul of an individual. Some find solace in an old song that evokes thoughts of a simpler time in their lives. A child too young to fully understand the lyrics of a song

can be brought to tears simply through the rhythm and tone used to express a particular emotion. Chances are at one point or another, everyone has heard an established musician mention in an interview how they believe learning to create music, whether it be with a guitar, trumpet, or piano; was their only salvation. Thanks to the combined efforts of maquiladora owner Cecilia Levine and Saul Frank, owner of Benny’s Pawn, a larger number of children in Juárez, Mexico now have the opportunity to experience for themselves the power of music.

After meeting at an event held in El Paso, the two learned that they were members of the same gym. A short time later while both happened to be working out, Levine spoke to Frank about her efforts to supply musical instruments to children participating in a program across the border known as The Esperanza Azteca Orchestra. Being the owner of a business that among other things buys and sells music instruments and equipment, Frank quickly became interested in what Levine was hoping to accomplish. Without skipping a beat, Frank offered to help out by donating some of the instruments he had at one of his seven locations.

Though Benny’s Pawn was not the first to show interest in Levine’s cause by donating the much needed equipment, (since Levine’s efforts began three years ago).“ He has been the strongest supporter,” Levine says. The first donation of flutes, clarinets and saxophones handed over by the owner of the well-known pawn shop

www.thecitymagazineelp.com

53

esperanza azteca orchestra

March, 2014

was somewhere in the vicinity of 25-30 different instruments. By Frank’s estimation, the combined value of all that was donated was easily at least $10,000.

“Of course they’re all used, but they are all working and in good condition,” Frank mentions. It is completely possible that Frank is being a bit modest in regards to the condition of the instruments he chose to hand over, especially when taking into consideration Levine’s thoughts on the matter. “The instruments that they (Benny’s) donated to us were superior to some of the equipment that the kids were using, so they were very, very excited to be able to have better instruments,” Levine says.

The initiative took place when Levine began to look into programs that would keep the youth of Juárez entertained after school let out. She became familiar with an organization originating out of Mexico City called Esperanza Azteca.

Levine recognized the great job the group was doing with keeping kids busy and off the streets. The parents of these children were extremely exited to see a sense of pride and discipline being instilled in their offspring. A group of interested individuals began a board that aligned itself with the existing board in Mexico City, shortly after an orchestra was put together and Levine’s vision began to move forward.

According to Levine, out of the several different orchestras throughout Juárez that are working towards teaching over 915 children how to play a variety of instruments, Esperanza Azteca is among the most organized. With over 250 members, ranging between six and 18 years of age, the group is in the process of creating a second orchestra. The idea is to continue accumulating better quality equipment to supply the more experienced students with, while the older instruments get handed down to the newer members just starting out.

“They’re under a structure ... The children have a commitment to practice three hours a day,” Levine states, “The parents also have to make a commitment,” says Levine, “making sure the children make it to the scheduled practices.”

Because of the additional expenses including the practice facility, payment to the 16 music instructors for their work and maintaining the equipment used by the young musicians, the orchestra relies highly on the generosity of Frank and others who are in the position to assist with their donations. “At this time we know that there are a lot of children in the United States that might take music classes for a period of time, then they go off to college and leave their instruments in the closet,” Levine mentions. Her hope is that many of these instruments find their way into the hands of the children in Juárez who are devoting their time and energy to music.

Aside from setting up workshops to teach people how to fix, maintain and refurbish the instruments used by the orchestra, Levine and those working along side her are moving towards opening up a music academy for two very specific reasons. They would like to see their efforts grow into an 54

www.thecitymagazineelp.com

March, 2014

opportunity for these children to make a career out of the skills they are acquiring. In addition, they hope to contribute to cultural tourism in the region.

“Austin is doing a wonderful job promoting cultural events, why not El Paso, El Paso/ Juárez verdad?” Levine states.

The property they are looking into acquiring for the music academy is only a five-minute walk from the border. If and when their plan comes to fruition, Levine hopes its proximity to the bridge will encourage aspiring musician from the United States to participate as well.

Last October, Frank had the opportunity to listen to the members of The Esperanza Azteca Orchestra perform at El Paso’s Civic Center, where many dignitaries attended including the mayor of Ciudad Juárez. This year, the orchestra is already scheduled to perform October 18th. “I like to give back to the community. We’ve been in business here for a long time and it’s great to give to the children that really can’t afford the instruments,” Frank says, “It was great to go and hear them play.”

This time around, Frank will have the opportunity to watch the children perform using many of the instruments donated by him from Benny’s Pawn Shop.

Levine feels that Frank’s donation of music instruments, “Is really helping a lot of children,” she says, “He is committed to us.” www.thecitymagazineelp.com

55

A FOLLOW

Martha V A

s medicine advances for both the detection and treatment of ailments, our choices – and the weight of them – also seem to swell. Whether it is deciding what treatment to choose, which surgeon to trust, or whether

a preventative measure should be taken, the options can seem intimidating. In the face of such giants, Martha Vera has chosen to undergo a risk-reducing, double mastectomy this October.

A year ago, after genetic testing and urging by her family, Vera discovered that she has a mutated BRCA2 gene. This means that she has an 87% chance of developing breast cancer, and a 54% chance of developing ovarian cancer. She then faced her own choice: to gamble with her chances of cancer, or to have a double mastectomy to reduce her chances to 5%.

“I want to live to see my grandchildren grow up.”

THE COURAGE

to

Choose One El Paso Woman’s

Journey Towards an

Martha owns and operates Imaging El Paso, an imaging center that specializes in breast cancer detection. The center was the first in El Paso to offer full field digital mammography, and its creation was spurred out of deeply personal reasons for Martha.

Her family carries the BRCA gene mutation, the same mutation that caused Angelina Jolie to also choose a risk-reducing double mastectomy.

Martha’s aunt was the first to discover that she had breast cancer and the gene mutation to accompany it; Vera decided to open the imaging center after this shocking news. The aunt asked her sisters to all get tested, but – as is so often the case – they found it highly unlikely that they would also have faulty copies of the BRCA gene.

The BRCA genes, which stand for breast cancer reducing genes, code for tumor suppressing proteins. Dr. Marco A. Gonzalez, who will be performing Vera’s reconstruction, explains that the protein produced acts like a surveillance team.

“If there’s an abnormality in the nucleus where they DNA is being produced, this protein detects an abnormality and automatically corrects it.” This helps to detect and destroy cancerous tumors, which are caused when an abnormality

Elective Mastectomy

in DNA is unchecked and allowed to grow out of control. “You only need one functioning gene of each,” Dr. Gonzalez continues. Martha’s family and others with this mutation, therefore, have two mutated copies, and nothing to be on the lookout for tumors.

| By: BRITTANY SAWREY photography by: ROBERT CORRAL | 1

“I will always be here to help anyone who’s going through concerns whether they have cancer or not, going through the surgery and knowing what to expect, what they’re going to be feeling. It is a very unusual time, you learn a lot about yourself.”

56

www.thecitymagazineelp.com

A CHOICE AFFIRMED

March, 2014

W UP WITH

Vera

| By: BRITTANY SAWREY |

Thankfully, her surgery went extremely well,

part, that your muscles don’t want to stretch

her recovery time has been good and she is

and it can be very uncomfortable at times.

highly grateful that she made the decision she did. Although she is honest

Although she had chosen to have the

that it has not been easy, she

mastectomy preventatively, the doctors found

says that it has been worth it.

a surprise when they went in for surgery. About

“When they woke me up

four days after surgery, her doctor called her

after the surgery, they had a

with some interesting news. They had found

mirror and they said, ‘Look!’

a 2 mm nodule inside her left breast that was atypical ductal hyperplasia. What this means is that there was precancerous tissue already in her breast, a type of tissue that can become

Article Title

This October – a month dedicated to breast cancer awareness

“You know I really feel that it’s important to get tested. You need to know so you can be proactive about getting your mammograms, getting your MRIs if you need to.”

– Martha will have her risk-reducing double mastectomy, and then will undergo reconstruction afterwards. Martha’s mother underwent this same process a year ago, and although the surgery was successful, her mother’s recovery was not easy. “It’s coming up to a year, and she’s just now starting to feel better,” Martha explains. Although this makes Martha nervous, it also makes her feel more compassionate and connected to her patients at Imaging El Paso. “I feel very close to all of our patients that have been diagnosed with breast cancer. I’m not going to go through everything they went through, but a small portion of what they had to go through.” Martha also plans to have her ovaries removed in the future, because the BRCA genes also code for ovarian cancer,

some really good research, so that I wouldn’t have to have things redone.” That research led her to local surgeon Dr. Gonzalez who, as a New York trained plastic surgeon, brings unique techniques in reconstruction to El Paso. He views risk-reducing mastectomies holistically: “Number one, you reduce your risk, number two, [is] psychological for the patient…so they can go on with their lives, not

urging, her five children were tested; four out of the five siblings found that they also carried the mutated gene, including Martha.

A year ago, an MRI found that Martha’s mother had breast cancer, and she immediately underwent a double mastectomy. At this point, Martha’s choice was thrown into the sharpest light.

“She kept telling me, ‘Get it done, get it done.’ But you know, there’s always something that’s happening, or work gets in the way,” Martha recounts. As an active, involved woman with a thriving career, being sidelined by surgery never seemed to be a convenient

BRCA1 and BRCA2 genetic

testing can be done with a

simple saliva test and can tell

thinking they’re going to develop this disease, and number three is a nice aesthetic result.”

“You know I really feel that it’s important to get tested. You need

if a person carries a mutation

to know so you can be proactive about getting your mammograms,

family has been deemed high-

mammograms should be done yearly to watch for any cancerous

in one of these genes. If your

getting your MRIs if you need to,” Martha urges. Both MRIs and

risk this is usually covered by

growths. “It’s amazing that from one year to another, you can have

insurance and cost can range

from $250-$450 dollars.

nothing one year and the next year you can have a huge mess.

So that’s something to be very watchful of,” Martha adds, her knowledge firsthand both from family members and patients.

Ultimately, however, it comes down to each patient’s choice:

option. What finally pushed her to choose the mastectomy was her cousin. Seven years prior, that cousin had been told she should

Dr. Marco A. Gonzalez, MD

have a risk-reducing mastectomy due to her deleterious gene, and

Envy Aesthetic Center

she ignored the advice. After having nearly every type of cancer in

(915) 845-3223

the past seven years, she begged Martha to take the advice she had not. “She was very persuasive in telling me that I needed to get

Dr. Victor Diaz, MD

my mastectomy done now. I promised her that I would do that,”

El Paso Surgical Associates, P.A.

Martha adds, remembering her final decision. www.thecitymagazineelp.com

now, and there’s no telling when. This finding, however, confirmed that it was the right before the small nodule became dangerous.

was a bit more complicated: “I thought I was going to need to do

tested, and found that she, too, carried the BRCA2 mutation. At her

cancer three months or three years from

decision to have a preventative mastectomy

countless times. Choosing who to have do her reconstruction

then a cousin. It was at this point that Martha’s mother finally got

malignant,” Vera divulges – it could become

When asked how she chose her doctors, Martha explains that him personally for many years, and he has performed this surgery

Their resistance crumbled after another aunt was diagnosed, and

those little things are going to turn and become

though to a lesser degree.

she chose her surgeon – Dr. Victor Diaz – because she has known

Despite Martha’s aunt’s push for genetic testing, her sisters refused.

cancer at any moment. “You don’t know when

whether to get tested, and then whether to act preventatively or not.

Vera says she was nervous going into the surgery. “I was a little sad going in, and a little sad after it ended, but never once did I not feel like a woman, because the work he did was so beautiful,” Vera confesses after being asked what it felt like. “It’s a sense of loss, but I think you become more empathetic and sympathetic about other people’s loss,” she adds. “I’m really happy that I did it, because otherwise, had I waited until it was something,

“It’s an educational process, and from that you can make a decision if you are going to want to do the risk-reducing mastectomy.” For Martha, the choice – though difficult – was clear. “It’s just having to finally say, ‘I’m going to do it now’.”

I think that the ability to heal as quickly as I did is probably compromised. I’m really happy

(915) 543-9600 1

that I went through it.” She is still awaiting two more surgeries to complete the process,

I

but she is optimistic and grateful that thus n October of 2013, Martha Vera

And, you know, you can barely see what

far everything has gone well. “I will always

elected to have a preventative double

happened,” she laughs. “I was thinking, ‘They

be here to help anyone who’s going through

mastectomy. Knowing that she had

haven’t even started’, and they said, ‘We’re

concerns whether they have cancer or not,

a mutation in her BRCA2 gene, her

finished!’” Post surgery, she had the spacers

going through the surgery and knowing what

chances of contracting breast cancer were

that had been inserted slowly filled, stretching

to expect, what they’re going to be feeling,”

88%, and she chose to undergo surgery as a

the skin and muscle so that they would be able

she adds emphatically. “It is a very unusual

prevention against cancer.

to accept breast implants, scheduled for early

time, you learn a lot about yourself.”

March. Vera says that this was the most painful www.thecitymagazineelp.com

57

CHRISTIN March, 2014

Building a Legacy at

| By: ADAIR MARGO |

58

NA WOO March, 2014

Lydia Patterson Institute

S

ix blocks from the international

Last year was Lydia Patterson Institute’s

bridge in El Paso’s Segundo Barrio,

centennial year, a good time to kick off its

there’s a Methodist mission school

capital campaign. While its buildings will be

affectionately called “La Lydia”

renewed with bricks and mortar, its faculty

by her students. It is in the same

and staff will be renewed by faith. Their

location as when it was founded 100 years

commitment to their students never seems

ago, named to memorialize a woman who

to wane, and knowing they are needed keeps

taught Spanish-speaking children with no

them going. One of them is Vice Principal,

place to go to school.

Maria Christina Woo. If Lydia Patterson today were a building only, she would be the corner

Since 1913, it has been a beacon for

stone. What’s more, her story reflects the

educating mostly impoverished youth living

exponential success to be found there.

on both sides of the Rio Grande.

One of 11 children born Four hundred high school students attend

to uneducated Chinese

today, most crossing daily from Juarez

parents in 1950, she

where the average family income is $ 159.00

lived with brothers in

a month. Nearly two-thirds are U.S. citizens

two rooms at the back

who live in Mexico. Dressed in maroon and

of her father’s Juarez

white uniforms, many leave their homes at

grocery store. There was

dawn. There are always long waits at the

no thought of educating

bridge. Yet there’s no complaint of being tired

a girl, nor the ability to

when they arrive for class, nor when doing

clothe one. By the time

chores to keep their school clean.

her brothers’ ropa usada reached her as hand-me-

Of those entering as freshmen, 95 percent will

downs, they were filled

graduate; and of those graduates, 98 percent

with holes.

will continue to a university. Four out of five will receive scholarships - many to schools

When

associated with the Methodist church, including

scholarship to Lydia Patterson – his father

Southern Methodist University, Huston-Tillotson,

thinking that by learning English he could

Texas Wesleyan and Wiley College. Most

work in a curio shop - it started a chain-

important, graduates will excel in gratitude, and

reaction with the other brothers going, as well

in knowing God has a purpose for their lives.

as Christina. As the eldest went on to Texas

www.thecitymagazineelp.com

her

oldest

brother

received

a

59

GOODBYE WINTER GOODBYE VEINS

March, 2014 Western College (now the University of Texas at El Paso), majoring in engineering, the other brothers followed … and so did Christina!

The boys became prominent engineers, building the border region by doing things like starting an RCA maquiladora in Juarez and working at White Sands Missile Range.

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Christina

returned

to

Lydia

Patterson,

initially expecting to spend two years teaching math in order to “pay back” what it had done for her family. Her students cried when it was time for her to pursue her career as a civil engineer.

“They touched my heart,” she explains, “I knew I was making a difference.”

She has stayed for 41 years, taking on any task or club that needed to be sponsored.

She worked in the office during the summer without extra pay. She coached, she cooked

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and she advised seniors on getting into college, taking them by the hand. When she graduated as Valedictorian in 1968, she didn’t know what an SAT was. Now everybody does and there’s a full-time counselor to help.

There’s no wonder so many students say, “Miss Woo, if you leave the school, it will fall down.” There’s no wonder so many parents say, “Miss Woo, you cannot leave until my children graduate.”

Though

Christina

gets

tired

physically,

her eyes are still bright. She points to the

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thousands of files she is working on, archiving each student and their report card dating back almost to the beginning. “I cannot leave until this is done,” she says.

As Lydia Patterson Institute embarks on its next 100 years, Christina Woo is insuring that others will know its inspiring story.

consultation and ultrasound 60

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March, 2014

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61

March, 2014

A Strong Voice | By: DESIREE LOZANO |

“We bring in successful Latina women to speak to these girls at a very young age to give them the idea of ‘she did it, I can do it too.”

T

he pressure society puts on young women to look a certain way and to achieve success is minimized as young Latinas are empowered by means of media and technology through El Paso’s Latinitas starting at age 11.

The non-profit organization focuses on Latinas ages 11-18 and works to provide a creative outlet for girls to express themselves, learn about their culture and find their voice in the community.

Latinitas offers various camps and workshops with local partners to help girls develop long-term skills and spark different interests.

“We try to tackle issues girls face every day through media, art, and cultural awareness. If the girls have an impression about something like bullying then they’re given the outlet to express themselves and empower others by raising awareness,” Alicia Rascon, Executive Officer and Co-Founder of Latinitas, said.

Mother-daughter workshops are offered for girls to bond with their mothers over fun confidence-building activities. Workshops include hands-on activities to tackle body-image issues, bullying,

62

March, 2014

Latina Youth

for

dealing with stress and health and wellness

and communication through writing, art,

“We have professional journalists come

through yoga or Zumba sessions. Workshops

photography and video. Camps will be held

and speak to the girls about using media

are held April 5th and 26th at the Latinitas El

April 12th and 26th from 10 A.M. to 1 P.M. at

to explore and express themselves as well

Paso Headquarters in east El Paso.

Latinitas Headquarters.

as take them on field trips to local news stations,” Rascon said.

“Helping these girls express themselves

“We bring in successful Latina women to

through media also helps them develop

speak to these girls at a very young age to

Latinitas was founded in 2002 out of the

a sense of media literacy,” Rascon said.

give them the idea of ‘she did it, I can do

University of Texas at Austin and was

“They can view media critically to accept

it too,’” Marketing and Promotions intern

expanded to El Paso in 2008 with 30,000

themselves as a Latina in the community.”

Mariana West said.

readers a month and serving 4,000 girls and

El Paso Latinas are also given the opportunity

In

was

With programs in 10 cities Latinitas has been

to develop their leadership skills through

launched as the first digital magazine for

recognized nationally by the National Hispana

the Teen Leadership Institute. Girls attend

and by Hispanic girls and Club Latinitas

Leadership Institute.

bi-weekly workshops to learn about civic

was launched shortly after. Club Latinitas

engagement, explore social justice topics,

is focused on training aspiring Latina

Latinitas will be hosting Girl Power Fest

connect

teens annually with enrichment programs.

2003

LatinitasMagazine.org

journalists through an afterschool program

on Apr. 12th at the University of Texas at

organize volunteer projects.

with activities in writing, photography,

El Paso to further build the confidence of

Saturday camps are held in order to

editing, publishing and filmmaking.

young girls and will feature guest speakers

with

community

leaders

and

strengthen girls’ confidence in multimedia

www.thecitymagazineelp.com

to share their experiences.

63

March, 2014

64

www.thecitymagazineelp.com

March, 2014

girl scouts

MORE THAN

C

kies

Girl Scout Day is

March 12! | By: BRITTANY SAWREY |

The Girl Scouts has 3.7 million members and is considered the largest educational organization in the world for women; it has influenced nearly 60 million individuals since its inception in 1912, and continues to grow daily. So much has come from the dream of one woman – Juliette “Daisy” Gordon Low. www.thecitymagazineelp.com

65

girl scouts

March, 2014

Claudia Castillo Makeup Artistry

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Juliette, or “Daisy” as she was fondly called, had searched for meaning and purpose in her life until 1911, when she fatefully met Sir Robert Baden-Powell, who had founded the Boy Scouts and Girl Guides. Juliette immediately became interested in this new and exciting youth movement and threw her considerable energy into the infant organization. Less than a year later, she called a distant cousin and uttered some of her most famous words: “I’ve got something for the girls of Savannah, and all of America, and all the world, and we’re going to start it tonight!” Following that phone call, on March

capable girls that could enter into the

12, 1912, Juliette Gordon Low gathered

professional world as easily as the home.

together 18 girls in Savannah, Georgia as the

Her progressive views have helped millions

first registered American Girl Guides.

of girls to discover talents and abilities they

The vision behind the American Girl Scouts

wouldn’t have imagined.

(as the name was later changed to) was to

66

prepare girls for all possible futures. Juliette

The Girl Scouts, under Juliette’s leadership,

wanted them to develop spiritually, mentally

was

and physically; she wanted to prepare them

community. Girls of all backgrounds were

not only for homemaking – as was traditional

welcomed and encouraged to participate,

in that era – but for business, science, and

including those with disabilities. At this time,

the arts. She saw a vision of well-rounded,

disabilities still had a heavy stigma, and girls

also

a

diverse

and

welcoming

www.thecitymagazineelp.com

March, 2014 with them were often excluded from most activities. Juliette saw no reason that this should be the case, and taught them selfreliance and resourcefulness along with the other girls. Juliette herself had struggled with some physical ailments, and thus could not only identify with the girls but knew what they were capable of as well.

Girl Scouts has grown throughout the last century, evolving with world politics and women’s rights. During World War I, girls learned about war bonds, food conservation and preparation, and worked in hospitals. The Rally (now called The American Girl) Magazine was first produced, and Girl Scouts developed their own handbook and uniform. By 1920, at only 8 years old, the organization had grown to 70,000 members across the U.S.! After another ten years, and the first establishment of Girl Scout Troops on Foreign Soil, the numbers had reached 200,000. During the Great Depression, Girl Scouts aided in relief efforts by making quilts, helping in hospitals, and – perhaps what most people are thankful for today – had their first Girl Scout Cookie sale. In the 50’s, at a time when racial prejudice was abounding, Ebony Magazine praised the organization: “Girl Scouts in the South are making steady progress toward breaking down racial taboos,” keeping their commitment to diversity and acceptance.

The 60’s and 70’s were both marked by progressive racial equality measures within Girl Scouts, including active civil rights involvement and electing their first African American National Girl Scout President. Since that time, the Girls Scouts have continued to tackle serious and worldwide issues, such as hunger, illiteracy, poverty, and have continued to be actively involved in helping to mitigate those struggles.

If Juliette “Daisy” Gordon Low could see the organization now, she would see that that fateful phone call has proved prophetic: the Girl Scouts have definitely affected girls in Savannah, and all of America, and all the world.

www.thecitymagazineelp.com

67

Parenting | By: ROBIN NILAND |

68

March, 2014

PROJECT MANAGEME NT

www.thecitymagazineelp.com

pa r e n t i n g

March, 2014

R

ight now we are in the thick of (cue

laundry to see how the detergents perform.

I want my children to get the absolute most

suspenseful music) Science Fair.

The project is actually pretty interesting and

out of their educations, and sometimes that

As a former classroom teacher,

our daughter is good about doing what needs

means stepping back and allowing them

I understand very well the value

to be done, so why do I feel so much stress?

to do it without my help. Other times, it means a gentle shove, er, nudge, to get

of taking on an extended, largely

self-guided project and seeing it through

I think it’s pretty easy for parents to feel

the task accomplished. Children benefit

to the end. Countless useful skills can be

responsible for their children’s successes and

from what they learn from success as well

learned through this process including self-

failures. We do not like to see our children fail

as failure, even though it is much harder to

motivation, time-management, and critical

and will do almost anything to help them be

watch them struggle. I am keeping a careful

thinking. All of these skills will be needed

successful. The part I personally struggle with,

distance as my daughter completes her

for success in college and later in a career.

and many of the other moms I spoke to, is how

science fair project. I am proud of the work

As a parent, I see a completely different side

much is too much help? When does a project

she has done and will continue to “remind”

of this dreaded beast. I feel like we have

cease to be a measure of my child’s learning in

her of due dates, point out misspelled

been consumed with organizing facts and

school and instead become a display of his or

words, and guide her in the right direction

charts related to the experiment (testing

her parent’s abilities? I don’t know the answer

when she gets frustrated. But ultimately,

the effectiveness of different types of

to this and I will probably spend the next twelve

this is her project and I want her to feel

laundry detergents on stains), researching

years of my children’s school years trying to

ownership of the final result. Success is not

all you never wanted to know about the

find the balance, but one very wise teacher’s

simply measured by the product, but by the

active ingredients of laundry soap, carefully

suggestion stays in the back of my mind at all

lessons learned in the process.

measuring different types of stains onto

times, “It’s okay if a child fails, your job is to

fabric samples, and washing ten+ loads of

help them back up so they can try again.”

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etiquette

March, 2014

DEMONSTRATE MATURITY TO EARN INDEPENDENCE | By: JOANN WARDY | Here are tips for a teenager who wants more independence: • Arrive home at the designated time.

• Be honest about where you are going and whom you will be with.

• Don’t drink and drive. Make sure the car is clean and gas tank is full when you return it.

• Make sure your chores are done in a timely manner without having to be reminded.

• Remember that going to school is your job. Good grades are your responsibility.

By demonstrating to parents that you can handle these responsibilities in a mature manner, you will gain their respect and confidence and they will be more inclined to give you more freedom and independence.

70

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November, 2013

226 Cincinatti El Paso, TX 79902 915-532-2390 71

investment

March, 2014

Managing Expenses during the College Years

A

s the parent of a high school senior, preparing for college and the expenses that are associated with higher education, I find myself neck deep in the financial aid application process. For most parents, paying for a child’s

college or graduate school education is a major event. For some parents, it rivals only the purchase of a home in number of dollars spent. As the cost of college continues to rise, it’s little wonder that parents view their ability to pay college costs with some apprehension. Yet, in all but the most affluent families, paying for college does not involve a 100 percent out-of-pocket contribution from parents.

Rather, the average family uses a combination of strategies to pay higher education costs--savings, financial aid, education tax credits, out-of-pocket contributions, and other creative solutions.

Savings

your child, while scholarships and grants do

After you become savvy about the financial

Hopefully, you’re one of the parents who

not. Work-study jobs are paid jobs performed

aid process, you can learn about legitimate

have been saving money for their child’s

by students and are subsidized by the federal

steps to take to position your income and

college education on a regular basis. If so,

government or the individual college.

assets to enhance your child’s financial aid eligibility. Though it’s best to become familiar

now’s the time to use those funds. But in many cases, this won’t be enough to cover

Every college that accepts a student will try to

with these steps while your child is still in high

all the bills.

create a financial aid package for that student.

school (allowing time to implement them), you

Typically, loans make up the biggest portion

can also take advantage of these suggestions

of any financial aid package, though the exact

while your child is in college because financial

The majority of college-bound students

percentage will vary by student. Most students

aid must be reapplied for every year.

qualify for some type of need-based financial

take out at least some student loans, which

aid (as opposed to merit-based financial

lessen the financial burden on their parents.

Financial aid

One final note: graduate students may not have the same breadth of financial aid

aid like athletic scholarships), and this can supplement your savings. The largest

All students should apply for federal financial

programs available to them, or, conversely,

provider of need-based financial aid is the

aid, even if they’re not sure they’ll qualify,

they may have certain programs available to

federal government, followed by colleges.

because

change

them that are not available to undergraduates.

slightly from year to year and filing the federal

For example, the federal government’s grant

Need-based financial aid consists of loans,

government’s aid application (called the

programs are limited to undergraduates, but

grants, scholarships, and work-study jobs.

FAFSA) is often a prerequisite for obtaining

universities may offer special grant programs

Loans eventually need to be repaid by you or

other types of aid, such as college aid.

to graduate students that are not available to

eligibility

criteria

may

undergraduates.

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March, 2014

investment

2013 Broker/Dealer of the Year

Education tax credits and deductions There are several education tax credits and

It can be hard to manage both goals, but it is possible to save for college and retirement.

deductions that can help families weather

Other creative solutions

college costs. All of the education tax credits/

Finally, there are other creative ways for

deductions have income limits. For more

parents to lower their college costs by lowering

information, see IRS Publication 970, Tax

the actual cost of school. For example, a

Benefits for Education.

student could choose an accelerated program and graduate in three years instead of four;

Out-of-pocket contributions

a cooperative education where education is interspersed with paid internships; or a live-

The way you pay the bill from your own

at-home arrangement where money is saved

pocket can range from the simple to the

on room-and-board costs.

complex. It may mean tapping funds from any number of sources--your current weekly

No matter what your child decides regarding

paycheck, your savings and investments,

higher education, it is always important

your IRA or employer retirement plan,

to remember that preparing for the costs

your home equity, other loan sources such

should start as soon as possible. One should

as banks or brokerage accounts, or other

also do an extensive job of researching the

assets such as cash value life insurance. The

different levels of aid offered by colleges

commonality is that the money comes from

and universities. Also, work closely with your

you and is a drain on your financial net worth.

child to make sure that the schools they are applying to offer the best financial packages

An important reminder: Paying for college out of

available to them. It is a time intensive project,

pocket can conflict with other important financial

but very important for your financial health.

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

The tax information contained herein is general in nature, is provided for informational purposes only, and should not be construed as legal or tax advice.

Always consult an attorney or tax professional regarding your specific legal or tax situation.

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

goals, most notably saving for your retirement.

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March, 2014

| By: GRACE THE PSYCHIC LADY |

Your Astrological Calling

IN LIFE 74

ast rolo gy

March, 2014

LEO (July 23-August 22) The Lion likes to shine and is a natural born leader. They love the arts such as acting,

What is your purpose in life? What are you truly meant to do? What are you really good at? I’m sure we have all asked ourselves this before. If we look at the zodiac it can benefit us to know some of our natural talents when it comes to our career choices.

Below are some of the careers for each of the zodiac signs. It may help to give you some insight towards a successful future.

singing and performing. Many make excellent teachers and nurses.

VIRGO (August 23~September 22) Virgos are reliable and love to serve others.

Making them good as office managers in the medical field or working with computers.

Detail oriented and and good at planning.

LIBRA (September 23~October 22) The Scales of Justice rule them making them good lawyers, judges and counselors. Their love for beauty might help them in a field of the arts, fashion or interior design.

SCORPIO (October 23~November21) The Scorpion is a powerful and intense sign which can make them great doctors, counselors and engineers. They also do well in research and science.

ARIES (March 21~April 19)

LAWYER teacher actor painter

SAGITTARIUS

Rams need a job that will hold their interest.

(November 22~December 21)

They make good project leaders, supervisors

The Archer needs to be challenged or they

and the boss in charge. Being self-employed

lose interest. Travel, communication, and

or the CEO is a dream come true.

technology are fields that give excitement.

Boring and routine are not for them.

TAURUS (April 20~May 20) The Bull knows a good opportunity when

CAPRICORN (December 22~January 19)

it sees one. They do well with finance, real

The Goat likes to be in charge. Rags-to-

estate and land deals. Naturally gifted with

Riches, very motivated. They make excellent

numbers and money. Very detail oriented.

writers and artists but also do very well in the field of business and finance.

musician writer singer scientist

GEMINI (May 21~June 20) Twins need a mental challenge at work. This

AQUARIUS

is the sign of the communicator and they

The Water Bearer can excel in any profession

do well in advertising, writing, broadcasting,

that allows them to be creative and innovative

public relations and the technology field.

like owning their own business or marketing

(January 20~February 18)

someone else’s ideas. Broadcast media is a

CANCER (June 21~July 22) Crabs need to be creative in their fields.

good field for them.

Nurturing comes natural to them making

PISCES (February 19~March 20)

them excellent teachers and health care

The Fishes are drawn to theater, film or any of

providers. They also make for great chefs

the arts. They enjoy working behind the scenes

and bakers.

or alone. Photography, builders, religious leaders and healers are a few career choices.

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March, 2014

r u o Y Following

Hearing Your Call and

| By: MICHELLE CROMER |

Each night dreams pound on the roof of

We receive strangely coded messages

As dreamers we walk on all roads of life and

our lives like stars illuminating the darkness

intended uniquely for us, yet most of us

can be any age, young or old. We can change

within. They speak a language intended just

fail to follow where the dreams would lead.

genders, have careers we would never be

for us as they prod, poke, whisper and warn

Many trade the dream that brought them to

qualified for, fly with the birds, ride on rocket

in order to awaken us from the sleep of our

life for a life someone else dreams for them.

ships, swim deep in the sea, and visit with friends and family who have been gone a

common lives. They are deeply intimate and

long time.

no one else can hear the voice that calls from

Despite the modern dedication to facts

within our dreams. They contain a roadmap

and figures, at our core we still live in the

of the way our soul would like us to go. Our

dreamtime of deep imagination. Despite

It is a dream that first calls the soul to life and

dreams are nightly evidence that we remain

the modern obsession with rationality and

our “calling� in life can come from a dream.

part of a great drama and belong to a place

narrow logic our nightly dreaming sustains a

Dreams may arrive in the depths of sleep but

that is beyond time and space.

vital connection to the great mysteries of life.

they are intended to wake us up. Being fully awake means to be able to see and follow the dream of our life, wherever it might lead.

A certain kind of courage is required to hear the call and follow our dreams. If the path

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s m a e r D was easy to walk or predictable to follow many more would be on the path. Most

people prefer the safer route, even if it means ignoring the message from your soul. Failing to answer the call means living an unexplored life and it means dying without having fully lived. So much of life becomes arranged to obscure and distract us from what called

bargain with the world. They may have all the

us to come to this life in the first place. We

outward signs of success, but they fall into a

every event. The soul sits on the intersection

easily misplace our deepest longings and

trap of failing to become who they are at their

of time and timelessness, at the junction of

tune ourselves to someone else’s idea of life.

core. They may be clever, yet they cannot

dreams and waking life. Each day it shapes

Most of us remain unwilling to be extravagant

become wise. The treasure that we desire

a bridge intended to bring the two worlds

enough to wander where our soul would

most hides where we would never choose to

closer so that the divine might pour freely

lead us and we end up simply adapting to an

go on our own. Wisdom can only come from

into the mundane, so that the unseen might

endless series of short-term goals. Life can

a surprising self-revelation and from learning

help us to see. Embracing the dream of our

seem pointless and meaningless unless a

what it is that we truly love.

own life turns out to be how we help sustain the dream of life itself.

divine connection and true vocation can be found.

Each night the body sleeps while the soul embraces its dreams and prepares for an

Those who trade their dreams for the safety

awakening. It never tires of life’s confusing

of a prescribed life make a false and foolish

journey because it finds hints of the divine in

michellecromer.com @emichellecromer michellecromer

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March, 2014

TRAIN THE BRAIN The importance of having a strong mind for a strong body.

| By: PATRICK L. MARTINEZ, B.S. NUTRITION, CERTIFIED FITNESS TRAINER, CERTIFIED FITNESS NUTRITION COACH |

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FITNESS

March, 2014

Chest press, seated dumbbell curls, skull

If you have a stressful job, are going through

crushers, squats, lunges, burpees, pull ups,

from the world, you have to find an outlet that

a rough time in your life, or just feel shut out

pushups, sprints, etc. All great workouts.

will allow you to remove the negative energy that holds you back. Whether it’s church,

But what they don’t work out is your brain.

music, jogging, martial arts, yoga, friends,

“Brain? I thought this was a fitness column?”

dancing, or reading a book, find something that keeps your brain stimulated long enough

Yes, your brain. But not just the cerebellum

to forget about what is bothering you.

itself, but your “state” of mind. Having a

I’m not saying that you should hide your

strong state of mind can improve your health

problem. What I’m saying is that if the

just as much as diet and exercise.

problem is one that will not go away, you have to learn to manage it. We all have stressors in our lives. The key is to learn

Got your attention? Great. I’m sure you’ve

One of my favorite quotes by William Butler

to manage them and not let them manage

heard it before, “strong mind, body, and

Yeats is, “Education is not the filling of a

us. Of course as a trainer I can tell you that

spirit.” Yes it’s catchy, but it’s also true. See,

pail, but the lighting of a fire.” I love that

exercise is probably one of the best stress

as humans we were created to evolve. If

analogy. Lighting a fire inside oneself to spark

relievers you can do, but this is bigger than

you look at the progress from our primitive

thought, creativeness, inventiveness, ideas,

that. I want you to begin to think about what

ancestors to where we are now, you can

etc. Challenging oneself mentally will keep

it is that makes you happy.

see that physical strength wasn’t always

you intellectually strong which will in turn

the primary factor in our success. The ability

help with your physical state of being.

Not everyone wants to workout. Just like not

to learn and adapt to our environment is

everyone likes reading. So, as individuals, find But education is only one part of mental

what it is that will keep your mind focused

strength. Other things such as meditation,

on positivity rather than negativity. Those of

So, the point I’m trying to make is that in

adequate

and

you that do workout know that when you’re

order to maintain a strong mind, we have to

laughter can also help keep you mentally fit.

happy and have adequate rest your gains at

what allowed us to progress.

sleep,

social

interaction,

continually stimulate it. For me, education

the gym are greater than when you have less

is extremely important. It doesn’t matter

focus. I’m no scientist, but I can assure you

what you decide to learn, what matters

this is true. Just as our bodies require diet and

is your decision to learn. Never settle for

exercise, so do our brains. So challenge your

what you know. It doesn’t matter how many

minds. Educate yourselves, find hobbies, talk

degrees you hold, what position you have in

to people, experience different things, and

your company, or what your daily activities

have fun. Because your body will become

require. You should constantly try to learn

what the mind allows it to.

more not only to better yourself, but to remain competitive.

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March, 2014

Easy, Healthy Chips Crisps

80

&

| By: MEAGAN KINLEY |

www.thecitymagazineelp.com

March, 2014

FOOD

March is a month celebrating many national food days, with the entirety of the month known as National Nutrition Month. Among the exquisite daze of deliciousness March also boasts National Potato Chip Day. In celebration of both health and this classic American staple we at The City decided to offer a delectable spin on the conventional chip with delightful but advantageous recipes to liven up your everyday dinners with simplicity and style.

Potato Chips (4 servings) 1 Tbs. Olive Oil 2 Potatoes, Sliced Paper Thin ½ Tsp. Sea Salt Preheat the oven to 350 degrees.

Using an ordinary sealable plastic bag, pour olive oil, salt and potato slicings in and after you have carefully sealed the bag; shake the contents around until the salt and oil are evenly dispersed over the potatoes.

While the oil is soaking in, lightly spray or grease a baking sheet, then carefully arrange the potatoes so that none are touching.

Once the oven is heated, bake the potatoes for 10-15 minutes or until they are lightly browned (if they do not become browned they may not become crispy). Once they have browned, remove from oven, sprinkle with salt, let them cool for a few minutes, and then serve.

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Kale Chips (6 Servings) 1 Bunch Kale 1 Tsp. Olive Oil 1 Tsp. Sea Salt Splash of Lemon Juice Preheat the oven to 350 degrees.

Using your hands or scissors, remove the long thick stems from the Kale leaves, separate into bite-sized pieces and place on a greased or sprayed baking sheet.

Lightly drizzle or brush olive oil onto each piece. Once the oil is down, sprinkle salt onto them evenly.

When the oven is heated, bake the kale for 10-12 minutes or until crispy. When you see light browning on the edges of the leaves, remove and allow a few minutes to cool.

Squeeze some lemon juice over them, and then serve.

Cucumber Chips (3 Servings) 1 Cucumber, sliced paper thin 1 Tbsp. Sea Salt 1 Tsp. Olive Oil Preheat the oven to 350 degrees.

Lightly drizzle or brush olive oil onto each piece. Once the oil is down, sprinkle salt onto them evenly.

When the oven is heated, bake the cucumbers for 10-12 minutes or until crispy. When you see light browning on the edges remove and allow a few minutes to cool. Squeeze some lemon juice over them, and then serve.

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Sweet Potato Fries (4 Servings) ¼ Cup Olive Oil 2 Large Sweet Potatoes, Cut to Preferred Shape &Thickness 1 Tbsp. Sea Salt 1 Tbsp. Red Pepper, Lawry’s Salt, Cavender’s or Your Favorite Seasonings Preheat the oven to 450 degrees.

Put the potatoes in a bowl and mix in the olive oil, sea salt, and your preferred extra seasonings. Use your hands or a mixing spoon to fully coat the potatoes.

Grease or spray a baking sheet, then arrange the potatoes so none are touching.

When the oven is heated, bake the sweet potatoes for 25-30 minutes or until they are cooked to your desired crispness (note: the time will be effected by the shape and thickness of the sweet potatoes, the thicker they are the more time they may need to cook.) Allow time to cool, then serve.

83 www.elafantequila.com

March, 2014

CELEBRITIES

ATHLETES

W e n i W AND

e’re all familiar with the celebrities and athletes who try their hand at different careers. There’s the singers who have become actors –

people like LL Cool J, Jennifer Hudson, Mark Wahlberg and Will Smith. There’s also the typically hilarious athletes turned singers – there’s Shaquille O’Neal rapping, former Red Sox Pitcher Bronson Arroyo as the singersongwriter and who could ever forget boxer Oscar De La Hoya’s self-titled album, which is currently ranked 151,254 in Music on Amazon.

As frequently as they are crossing into acting and singing, however, more and more celebrities, actors and athletes are trying their hand at becoming winemakers – and to be honest, a lot of these wines aren’t bad! Here’s the lowdown on some of the celebrities who have gone into the wine business and become relatively successful: Dave Matthews of the famous bluegrass/rock band The Dave Matthews Band began trying his hand at wine in 1999 after purchasing

| By: VIC POULOS |

land from Blenheim Vineyards in Virginia.

Matthews made significant renovations to the historic property and handed the dayto-day operations off to his brother, Peter, who’s actually educated in producing wine under the Dreaming Tree label. Prices on their lineup of Cabernet Sauvignon and Chardonnay range from $14-$30 – probably cheaper than a ticket to one of his shows!

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wine

March, 2014

Then there’s Maynard James Keenan, the

in wine during his golf traveling. But it

front man of the band Tool and A Perfect

was his childhood friend, winemaker Jean

Circle – both bands that my son in Austin

Engelbrecht, who helped Els get started in

assures me are very good. Keenan is hands

the wine business and buy the property that

on at his Caduceus Cellars and Merkin

exclusively grows and produces Ernie Els

Vineyards which are located in Arizona –

wines. His most notable wine is probably his

yes, Arizona. Keenan and his winery were

Stellenbosch Signature Bordeaux-style blend.

featured in an entertaining documentary called Blood Into Wine, which details he and

Football great Drew Bledsoe took part

his winemaker’s journey to start a winery in

in a Wine Spectator magazine interview

such a dry, arid climate. You won’t find his

of athletes and their love for wine. He

interesting Shiraz/Malvasia and Cabernet/

described how his hometown of Walla

Syrah blends for less than $20, and will likely

Walla, Washington, emerged as a premier

need to dish out $50+.

wine region during his long football career.

Luckily for him, his neighbors were Leonetti

Jeff Gargiulo, a guitarist and former CEO of

Cellars. Since the NFL “puts you out to

Sunkist in Oakville, California, invites visitors

pasture” after a certain age, he said, he hired

to not only enjoy his vineyards’ wine, but to

winemaker Chris Figgins to help him start his

also walk among his guitar collection – one of

Doubleback Cabernet label, where you can

the finest in the world. If you want, you can

find good examples of Washington’s take on

even grab a guitar and pluck away while you

Cabernet Sauvignon.

sip on wine.

It should be noted that while many singers There are also the famous athletes who

and actors forays into music are considered

have brought themselves into the world of

a joke, just about all of the previously

wine. Golfing great Greg Norman says his

mentioned wines are of a great quality and

travels around the world during his prolific

many will be tough to find for less than $40.

golf career inspired him to explore wine and

If there’s one thing that’s for sure – most

winemaking. He owns Greg Norman Estates,

of these celebrities have taken their wine

which makes about 200,000 cases of wine

production as seriously as their day jobs!

each year. His wines include a wide range of varieties from Australia and California.

Fellow golfer and South African Ernie Els

Salud!

VIC POULOS

has a similar story – he became interested www.thecitymagazineelp.com

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November, 2013

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

Miss El Paso Texas and Miss El Paso Teen Texas directed by Laura’s Productions • Laura Rayborn is the official recruiter for the Miss Texas USA and Miss Texas Teen USA Contestants wanted between ages 14-26 (never married, no children) • Over $10,000 in prizes • Winners will compete in the upcoming Miss Texas USA and Miss Teen Texas USA LAURASPRODUCTIONS.COM • 915.845.2894 • LIKE US ON

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Ella Blu

el paso magazine www.thecitymagazineelp.com

November, 2013

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March, 2014

NICOLE LEANDRA RODRIGUEZ PHOTOGRAPHER: DAV ANMED CREATIVE DIRECTOR: JOSH SANCHEZ

ASSOCIATE FASHION STYLIST: CASSIE JEAN JOHNSON HAIR: DAVID PAUL OF

QUARTERMANE SALON

MAKE UP: CLAUDIA CASTILLO

88

look

MODEL:

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March, 2014

A Change in Seasons A Changing

Season | By: JOSH SANCHEZ |

Look found at

Versailles

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March, 2014

Look found at

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March, 2014

Look found at

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March, 2014

TOP AND PURSE: TED BAKER

SKIRT: DESIGUAL JEWELRY: JUICY COUTURE

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March, 2014

TOP AND SKIRT: CAMEO

ACCESSORIES: ELLA BLU

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November, 2013

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November, 2013

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March, 2014

IN OUT

| By: NATALIE ROSALES |

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March, 2014

WOMEN IN

Matchy Matchy

Warning: Only fearless need apply. Matching separates are perfect for the sartorial risk-taker and it is sure to produce some show-stopping results that may even break a few necks. Coordinating outfits, also known as co-ord is usually a fashion no-no but this season matching paisley, organza, and pastels have been spotted across runways everywhere. From Prada to Rag and Bone matching is all the rage. This perfectly pulled together look is a sure way to ignite some style envy. For a playful approach try a floral print and for a more polished fit stick to one color.

OUT

Matching jewelry to clothes

Now that matching separates are in, matching jewelry to your threads is a definite no. Add splashes of color to your co-ord look with a stand out necklace like Nicole Richie did in this pretty in pink Azzedine Alaia number.

IN

Candy Crush

New York Fashion Week in February has visually spoken and I avidly took down notes. For springtime’s newest ready-to-wear shade, pastels reign supreme this season. Top designers such as Calvin Klein, J. Mendel, and Reed Krakoff have stepped away from saturated colors and are moving towards softer hues. The runway models may not have touched any sweets but they sure looked it in their headto-toe powdered ensembles. Designers took full advantage of this lady-like style and had me craving pistachio mints, candy rose pinks, icy blues, and lavenders to be spread all throughout my closet. This look is vintage elegant so don’t be scared to wear en masse.

Wear these modern yet refined colors on a cropped top with a matching midi or maxi skirt.

If you don’t want to brave the co-ord look then pair a pastel color with black, white, or a coordinating print. To toughen up the outfit add some metallic jewelry and heels. This trend is sure to leave a sweet statement.

OUT

Neon

Neon may take you back to the 80s but the 80s are where this color needs to stay. These blindingly fluorescent shades are getting the thumbs down. The colors were a popular trend last summer but now the only time I see neon is when it’s sliding off the sales rack at Forever 21. This spring the focus is off the 80s and is leaning towards the 50s and 60s refined-yet-feminine approach. For those of you who still love the trend, I suggest wearing the glowing palette minimally with muted color clothing and just a pop of neon with a bright shoe or neon necklace. www.thecitymagazineelp.com

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in & out

March, 2014

MEN IN

Jet Set in style

THE RIGHT KIND OF LUGGAGE FOR SHORT TRIPS Men’s luggage needs to be practical and stylish and it would help if it matched appropriately with your traveling clothes, especially for those of you who are business travelers and frequently make first impressions with clients. Since different circumstances require different bags, I’m going to break it down for you from small to large.

Lets begin with the Dopp kit; this bag is about the size of a football and is made to carry your shaving essentials and toiletries. The most common type of material for the Dopp kit is leather and when purchasing I wouldn’t buy unless it’s waterproof.

Why use a Dopp kit? Let’s ask the man whose spilled lotion ruined his clothes.

If your traveling for business, a black or brown leather briefcase is ideal especially if other luggage is also being checked. There is a wide range of styles of briefcases; if you work in a relaxed environment go for a more rugged look, if traditional conservative is your work environment then look for a dressier briefcase that will pair well with a suit. For a non-business look that’s comfortable to carry over long periods of time try a backpack (the Duluth Pack backpack featured is durable and stylish). Tip: Don’t ever wear a backpack with a suit.

For those of you traveling for weddings, business, or anywhere where a suit may be required, a garment bag is necessary. Higher quality designed garment bags will usually fold in half and won’t crease or wrinkle the suit. Most garment bags come with either roller cases or a shoulder strap.

The weekender bag tends to be a favorite for most men; it’s a big soft-sided tote that is longer than it is tall or wide. This bag can hold lots of gear without taking up excess weight due to lightweight material. The only fallback is that tote bags are generally made with cheaper material and a small tear can result in lost luggage.

I would recommend checking out the Blue Claw Co. weekender bag and would suggest using this for road trips, and short vacations.

OUT

Mr. Mary Poppins

Carrying the right bag for the right trip shouldn’t be a problem for you with my quick and easy luggage guide so please do not be that guy that throws all their clothes, essentials, and shoes into one bag. Look professional while you travel and keep your clothes wrinkle free.

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in & out

March, 2014

MEN IN

Retro Shades

Women accessorize with jewelry, bags, and shoes but for men it’s all about the shades. Sure sunglasses are also useful for protecting your eyes from those harmful UV rays, but sunglasses are the one everyday item that can reflect a man’s personal style.

Channel a timeless, contemporary vibe by keeping it retro with aviators, oversizers, or wayfarers. The style embodies classic and cool with a James Dean all-American look.

Garrett Leight and Ray Ban are known for carrying this particular style, so complete your wardrobe and grab a pair. As Jack Nicholson once said, “With my sunglasses on, I’m Jack Nicholson, without them, I’m fat and 60.”

Tip The key to a perfect fitting pair of shades is all in the bridge, which is the distance between the lenses on your nose. Make sure that the bridge fit doesn’t sit too high or low. In other words the bridge shouldn’t squeeze your nose or set too far apart from your nose.

OUT

Reflective/Statement Sunglasses

Unless it’s Halloween and your dressing up as Kenny Powers, ditch the reflective shades. These statement sunglasses are usually reserved for professional dirt bikers so unless you’re going pro, find another option.

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| By: MATTHEW WILKSON |

M 100

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March, 2014

PREROGATIVE “You are your greatest asset.

Put your time, effort and money into training, grooming and encouraging your greatest asset.”

MEN’S Tom Hopkins

Ladies, most of you just won’t understand. The thought of adding another step to the morning

regimen can be rather repulsive for most of us men.

We are comfortable in our routines and it is nearly futile to expect change. We are much too busy doing other manly macho stuff to worry about

slathering moisturizer on our moneymakers. We don’t have time for that stuff when there’s a

whole world out there to be conquered! BUT What if there was a way to sneak in some extra grooming without having to put too much effort into it?

Now, that’s what I am interested in. This month’s

Men’s Prerogative is all about efficient grooming.

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M E N ’

M E N ’ S P R E R O G AT I V E

March, 2014

Buff-Gloves Exfoliation? Who has time for that? These clever micromesh shower gloves will cut your shower time in half and leave you feeling cleaner than a radio edit. Buff-Gloves are also great for dudes that get handy with a paintbrush or a wrench and need a quick clean up. These gloves will exfoliate the skin, unclog pores, and prevent acne (AKA Backne). This is man’s answer to the girly “shower poof” alternative. Suds up with your favorite body wash while you are scrubbing down with the BuffGloves. Available at menscience.com $16.

Clinique Three Step I recently watched a guy squeeze one of his pore geysers out sans mirror, who then proceeded to shop for produce at the grocery store we were both at.

My first two thoughts were: “Poor unfortunate person to eat the tomato that was fondled by the Public Popper” and “That guy needs the Clinique Three Step.” This kit is your one way ticket out of skin hell. Got acne? Consider it daily skinsurance. For those skeptics who don’t think you have the time for this,

relax, it only takes three minutes. The kit includes Liquid Facial Soap Mild, Clarifying Lotion for minimizing breakouts, and Dramatically Different Moisturizing Lotion+. This is a must have for anyone in my book. Find it at Dillards.com $26.

Nioxin Hair System Kit Losing or thinning hair can be a nightmare for many of us guys. Fortunately, Nioxin has an easy to use three step Hair System kit that will help! Just swap whatever dollar store hair products for the Nioxin shampoo and conditioner and you are two-thirds of the way to better looking hair. The last step is to rub the scalp treatment foam into the scalp to moisturize and prevent loss. Nioxin’s secret is to treat the scalp with vitamins, botanicals and purifying agents. The three step kit will renew thickness and shine to thin or damaged hair. Cop your kit at Ulta $44.

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E eauty B

nchanting How-to Contour Your Face

| By: CASSIE JEAN JOHNSON |

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BEAUT Y

March, 2014

Now that spring is right around the corner, what better way to have a fresh new look than by starting with your face? With all the beige and taupe makeup shades we have in our palettes it makes contouring so much easier and obtainable.

With just the right neutral tones you can really bring out and make your eyes pop with definition, chisel your cheeks and sculpt your nose. By using the art of contouring and playing with dark and light shades of color, to create reflected light, depth and definition in all the right places, you can bring your true inner beauty out. To create this enchanting look, follow this easy step-by-step “how to� to properly contour your face.

1

STEP

Let the magic begin! Use your desired dark, matte shades on areas you really want to extenuate and absorb light in such places as, the pockets of your cheeks and the sides of your nose. You then want to use light shimmery shades, so that you

may bring forward the features you want to reflect light, like the top of your cheekbones.

Quick Trick For a pretty pout, try adding a light shimmery lipgloss to your every day lipstick for a fun, yet natural, feminine look. www.thecitymagazineelp.com

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BEAUT Y

2

STEP

Choosing the right kit. There are many kits to choose from, some of the best can be purchased at Sephora and Ulta beauty stores, and include kits by Smashbox, Cargo, and Too Faced makeup. A contouring kit by Smashbox and Two Faced include easy steps to follow and application instructions as well, making it easy to understand and includes all the shades you need.

3

STEP

Master the dark arts, by using the darkest color found in the kit (and a Smashbox brush for best results). Use a small rounded brush and sculpt under the height of your cheekbones, and then diagonally down towards your jawline, lightly feathering the edges. By doing so, it creates depth in the hollows of your cheeks. You may also do the sides of your nose to create a slimming effect.

4 5 6

STEP

STEP

STEP

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Create dimension by lightly sweeping the medium color in your palette into the hollow and on to the apples of your cheeks. Then slowly feather it down toward the corner of your lips. Continue around your hairline and jawline, to create a three-dimensional effect.

Reflect light by using the lightest color in your kit on top of your cheekbones, and swoop gently underneath your eyes and brow bone. You may also continue with the bridge of your nose and tip of your chin in small circles to bring your face forward with full effect.

Cheeky Cheeks - the finale and most important step, is applying the blush to pull the whole look together! Bring your face to life by adding a little blush. A pretty pink like Napolean Perdis Blush Patrol will look great on any skin tone. Apply blush further back than the apples of your cheeks to create more depth and dimension for a polished and finished look.

It takes time and practice, but once you get it, you will be the apple of everyone’s eye! www.thecitymagazineelp.com

March, 2014

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March, 2014

We all know how tough breakups can be, and experts say men and women react differently to a breakup. Heartache and stress is bound to happen, but if you need some help getting through it read on.

1. Get out of your comfort zone Remember ... this is a new year and a new you. Get out of your comfort zone and do something you’ve never done before. This can be anything from sky diving, online dating, or cutting your hair super short. Completing a difficult task will boost your confidence and remind you of how awesome you are.

2. Rediscover yourself While being in a relationship especially in a toxic relationship we can lose sight of our strengths, skills, and certain goals. Think of the person you were before the relationship keep your good qualities, and weed out all of the negative qualities.

3. Take a moment According to therapist Rachel A. Sussman, author of “The Breakup Bible,” obsessing

t a Wh u Yo ld Do u o h S

over something is actually the natural way our brains deal with change. As long as it’s healthy, having a small melt down is okay. This will help you gain control of the situation.

4. 30 Day-Cleanse

This doesn’t mean go on a crazy diet. By cleanse I mean cleansing yourself from your ex. In other words stay as far away from your ex as possible. This means zero contact for at least 30 days. “You’ll get over it faster with zero contact,” says Sussman. You are also proving to yourself that you can survive without them.

| By: JANNET BUSTILLOS |

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5. Re-connect with old friends While you’re in a relationship, you tend to lose contact with friends. If you’re lucky, your friends haven’t forgotten about you and will give you a second chance. Having someone to talk to, and help get you out of the house is refreshing and can be fun. Just make sure the whole conversation isn’t about you.

Imagine how bored your friends will be, yawn.

6. Get out of town Taking a fabulous trip is a must! Not only do you need the distraction, but also traveling is a way to physically and mentally be away from your ex, this will help you look at things in a whole new light.

7. Start dating It’s never a good idea to be in a serious relationship right away. Give yourself some time to deal with the coping process and ultimately be over your ex for good before you commit to someone. However, don’t stop yourself from exploring the dating scene completely. Try to meet new people and go on casual dates, but nothing serious.

Getting your flirt on will be a confidence booster.

Just remember... “A break up is like a broken mirror.

It is better to leave it broken than hurt yourself trying to fix it.”

Anonymous

After A

Breakup 109

November, 2013

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150 November, 2013

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CASTLES and KILTS History and Haggis: A Trip to Edinburgh | By: REED LONEY |

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H

ow do you feel about rolling green hills? Historical sites? What about awesome food, fantastic old buildings, monuments and architecture spanning multiple centuries? If you answered with some variation of “love it!”, then Edinburgh is the city for you. The Scottish capital city of Edinburgh is one of the most interesting

cities in the world. It sits on the east coast of Scotland and is the seventh most populous city in the United Kingdom. Edinburgh is known for its breathtaking scenery, historic landmarks, and spectacular pub fare.

In Edinburgh, a location that is a must-see is Calton Hill, a hill near the center of the city topped with monuments and interesting architecture. While visiting, it becomes clear why Edinburgh earned the nickname “Athens of the North” in the 18th century based on monuments with classical Greek influence. Such monuments include Charles Cockerell and William Playfair’s National Monument of Scotland, which was dedicated to the Scottish Troops who passed in the Napoleonic Wars.

This 19th century monument was modeled from the Athens’ Parthenon and is unique in that it remains unfinished due to lack of funds three years after ground broke. The hill also includes the Nelson Monument, the Robert Burns Monument, and others – definitely a must see for lovers of architecture and history.

While visiting Edinburgh one should strongly consider walking to your destinations as opposed to taking cabs - it is a great way to appreciate the sites as well as to get acquainted with the city in a more personal way. The city itself is beautiful – historic buildings, interesting shops, and stone-paved streets make walking much less of a chore, and the time spent to arrive at your destination will seem minimal.

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March, 2014 If you plan on staying in hostel, Castle Rock Hostel is miles above anything else in the area. It was voted best Hostel in Scotland in 2008, 2009, and 2010 based on its reasonable prices and terrific location. The front door of the hostel faces out directly to Edinburgh Castle and the cliff that towers above the rest of the city, and the views of the city from the rooms are breathtaking.

Castle Rock’s current prices range from 11 to 68 pounds, depending on room choice. If you plan on staying at a hostel and are visiting this city, one couldn’t recommend this place highly enough. If you go to Edinburgh and have a bigger budget and would like to stay in something a little cozier than a hostel, the city has multiple lodgings to meet your needs.

The Chester Residence is one such option – you can rent out one of their luxurious, modern apartments as long as you are in the city. The Rutland Hotel, named after the street it sits on, is another option for those seeking comfort with similar stylish interiors.

If you are interested in more of a vintage look, than look no further than the Classic Guest House, which was originally a Victorian town house – features which this Guest House have worked hard to retain. However, these are just three of many options available to those looking to stay in the city, so looking at photos of potential hotels and finding one that fits your personal inclination is advised.

One of the biggest attractions in the city is Edinburgh Castle. The castle is at the highest point in the city and is only accessible through one path – the rest is sheer cliff faces. Edinburgh Castle is one of the most historical sites in the city, with evidence of human occupation as early as 900 BC and is the location of numerous Scottish and English battles. You can get up close to the castle without paying, but in order to view the inside a ticket (currently listed at 16 pounds) is necessary. For history lovers, this is no question a must do. There are multiple guided tours a day, of which are recommended to fully appreciate the full depth of the castle’s past. www.thecitymagazineelp.com

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t r av e l

One of the best experiences that Edinburgh

If you are a food lover and you hear Scotland,

this. In fact, even if you don’t love hiking,

offers are free walking tours that the

you probably are thinking one thing– there

you have to do this. It is by no means a

city provides. The guides are extremely

is no way I am leaving here without trying

walk in the park to get to the summit of the

knowledgeable, funny and friendly. Other

haggis! Thankfully, there are many pubs and

hill, but once you are there the view of the

than the usual sites like St. Giles Cathedral,

restaurants to meet this desire, each with

city and beyond is marvelous – I could not

guided tours offer more unique and otherwise

their own unique twist on the dish. Most food

recommend it highly enough.

unknown views. For example, the coffee

in Edinburgh is wonderful, as your stomach is

shop J.K. Rowling wrote the first installments

sure to attest to after your trip, especially if

Edinburgh is one of the most unique and

of the Harry Potter franchise and Greyfiars

you are an admirer of pub food. If you are a

beautiful cities in the world – it has a

Bobby, a statue of a dog in memento of the

fan of meat pies, try out The Last Drop Pub!

wonderful combination of history and modern day charm. One could spend weeks in the

canine “Bobby.” Bobby’s master died and was buried in Greyfiars cemetery, where the

For the best view of the city and beyond,

city and surrounding area exploring different

dog spent the rest of his life at his owner’s

hiking up Arthur’s Seat – a grouping of hills

monuments, museums, pubs and still have

graveside. If one would ever have the

in Edinburgh to the east of the castle – is

sites to see! So if you are looking for a city rich

opportunity to take a guided walking tour of

necessary. The hill is supposedly one of the

in history with unique and exciting views, take

the city, it is unquestionably a must do.

possible locations of Camelot, King Arthur’s

in consideration the Scottish city of Edinburgh.

mythical castle – claims that obviously go unproven. If you love hiking, you have to do

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| By: BRITTANY SAWREY |

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b e wa r e t h e I d e s o f M A r c h

B

eware the Ides of March! Many of us have heard this odd line, but most people have no idea what that means,

or certainly where it comes from, or what in the world ‘Ides’ are in the first place.

The Roman calendar had divisions in it based on the different phases of the moon, and these divisions were called ‘Ides.’ The Ides were supposed to correspond to the day of the full moon, and usually landed on either the 15th or 13th in most months. The Ides of March, which fell on the 15th, signified the beginning of a consular year in Rome, because that was when two yearly-elected Roman consuls began their occupancy of office. This tradition continued from 220 B.C.E. to 153 B.C.E. To the common citizen, the most important thing to know about the Ides of March was that it was the deadline to settle debts.

The Ides of March also marked an important cultural festival, one that celebrated Anna Perenna. By Greek myths, Anna Perenna was supposedly the sister of Dido, a tragic, suicidal Carthaginian queen. Of course, that festival has been supplanted by perhaps the most famous event to occur on the Ides of March: in 44 B.C.E., Julius Ceasar was assassinated on the Ides of March, at the foot of a statue of Pompey where the Senate was meeting. The assassination immediately overshadowed all other associations with the Ides of March, and the phrase began to colloquially refer to Julius Caesar’s assassination. This tie to March 15th was further solidified by Shakespeare’s famous and dramatized version of the events in the play Julius Caesar, in which the soothsayer speaks, “Beware the Ides of March.” The date has been associated with doom ever since.

Whether or not the Ides of March hold any prophecies of doom can be left to individual discretion, but it does give us a chance to remember one of the world’s most famous historical figures and his untimely death on the infamous Ides of March.

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p e r m a c u lt u r e

PERMA CULTURE Untapping the City’s Potential | By: VALENTIN SANDOVAL photos courtesy of: THE EL PASO PERMACULTURE GROUP |

Often times I wonder what it means to genuinely have vision. The inherent genius in us all shines as bright as we’ve allowed ourselves to understand and express it. Vision is looking at the common, the mundane, the pedestrian, and understanding an inherent value and potential that makes the common, utterly extraordinary.

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p e r m a c u lt u r e

S

March, 2014

o imagine an old smelter factory that employed thousands of El Pasoans throughout the century, including Pancho Villa. The factory would have

made a great film set for Mel Gibson’s Mad Max series back in the 80s. Instead of looking at the surface of an old controversial building, The El Paso Permaculture Group, envisions a park that’ll serve a myriad of functions for the greater El Paso community.

What is permaculture? After dialoging and gaining insight from EPPG on a very unique cultural, organic, grass roots movement that is seen in larger cities, I understand it as caring for the earth. It sounds almost too simple. But it tends to delineate off into some very complex and fundamental ideas regarding quality of life. And those three qualities are: care for the earth, care for the people, and fair share.

The idea began with wanting to create an inner cityurban garden. Carlo Mendo partnered with Robert Leal, a local yoga instructor and one of the pioneers that brought permaculture into serious practice. Carlo is a partner in Downtown El Paso’s Loft Light studio, an art gallery and space that focuses on supporting the wide range of local artists found in the borderplex of El Paso, Juárez, and Las Cruces. One of both Carlo and Robert’s unique characteristics is finding a way of making activism, at the risk of sounding trite, fun. With all the renovations and influx of people from South to North America, permaculture became the perfect movement to ignite here in the city. The primary reason being that it focuses on core life issues: our water, our air, and our food.

El Paso becomes the ideal location for the implementation of this holistic approach to understanding the individual with respect to our natural desert landscape.

Instead of attempting to covet that greener grass on the other side, why not embrace exactly what we are, a desert. So in order to help with that, the two partnered with Elisandra Garcia, a native El Pasoan who is now an architect doing her graduate work at Washington University in St. Louis, Missouri. Elisandra informs me on the specific form of architecture called Vernacular Architecture. In this technique, a builder works off of what’s inherent in the natural environment. “You work off of what’s available in your own backyard. You think in terms of cycles. You can build architecture with the natural materials that are found in our desert,” she states.

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March, 2014 One of her projects is designing a makeshift, easy-to-build green house that anyone can construct. The next step is to build houses premised off of smart code principals.

Essentially smart code provides the person, within a three-mile radius, with all the amenities that one may need. Ideally, this will cross pollinate into all aspects of ones’ life. It will have an impact on just how one travels. Biking will become a natural evolution to commuting, planting and growing ones own vegetables and fruits will become paramount. The idea is to promote autonomy and genuine self-sustainability without it being too esoteric and time consuming. Carlo and Robert now find themselves mobilizing teams of South El Paso’s youth and partnering with La Fe Prepatory School, to go off into their ‘Segundo Barrio’ neighborhoods and make them more permacutlure friendly.

Carlo reminds me that, “Manhattan’s Central Park was started by two artists that had an inspiration to turn an ugly space into something beautiful; a park that’ll bring the city together.”

According to Elisandra, one can implement a technique called the Huggel Kulture. It’s a system of utilizing logs, branches, and soil to grow food. It’s about retaining water and not throwing anything away. “You can use all that to create compost, it allows plants to grow. You can even make your own honey by maintaining your own bee colony.”

In this case, El Paso Permaculture Group sees an old smelter plant, and older dilapidated parts of the city, as beautifully undefined potential.

The EPPG is perpetually working at spreading their seeds through the urban concrete of the El Paso streets. The hopes are that the roots go deep enough to permeate into branches that sprout and grow into fruits of consciousness to be taken in by the previous, present and future generations to come.

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March, 2014

A WILDforGIFT | By: BRITTANY SAWREY |

Military Families

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March, 2014

P

the zoo

aul Foster and Alejandra De La Vega

environment. With the addition of the tree

Foster have already donated to the El

house, the opportunities for families to play

Paso Zoo, their most recent support

together, imagine together and learn together

being used to build a five-piece tree house

are endless. The El Paso Zoo and the Fosters

playground, planned for March. The Fosters’

alike want to support and encourage our

donation is reaching farther than the zoo this

soldiers and their families after deployment

time, and out to military families.

and service to our country.

Between 2014 and 2015, $600,000 of the

This

Fosters’ donation is being used to purchase

families, however; it helps the zoo as well.

zoo memberships for 8,000 military families.

The donation will also help to fund zoo

These memberships allow for families to go

projects, such as helping with facilities,

to the zoo for free, where they can play in the

landscaping, conservation and education

splash pad, see the amazing animals, eat a

efforts, professional development for staff,

meal, and - come March – be able to play as a

and bringing low income schools to the zoo.

family in the tree house playground. With the

Another portion of the Fosters’ donation

memberships, military families can come for

will begin in 2016, helping to fund live

an hour or an entire day, and can spend time

animal programs for education at the zoo

with their spouses and children. Since many

for three years, and continuing their legacy

of our military personnel aren’t originally from

of generosity and community development.

El Paso or even Texas, this program helps

The live animal programs will join the splash

them have something to do, and begin to

pad and tree house playground as wonderful

experience all that El Paso has to offer. “The

places for families, military and civilian alike,

purpose of this program is to help soldiers

to enjoy for free.

donation

not

only

helps

military

who are coming back from deployment to reintegrate into our community, but more

The memberships can be for a single

importantly to reintegrate into their families,”

soldier all the way up to two adults and five

Renee Neuert, the Executive Director of

children, depending on the family size. The

the El Paso Zoological Society, explains.

memberships will be distributed through

The free membership helps families bond

Moral Welfare and Recreation, MWR, at

after time apart in a fun, outdoor and active

Fort Bliss.

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THE SECRET LIFE OF BIRDS

EL PASO’S FLOURISHING

WORLD OF BIRDING

| By: MEAGAN KINLEY |

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March, 2014

If you didn’t know, even during the chilly winter months of the year El Paso and its rich surrounding area is an oasis for rare and stunning birds of all shapes and forms.

In fact, there are over 200 different species that frequent our tri-state area. You may have even seen this first hand, one minute your sipping coffee in your kitchen staring blankly out the window into your backyard, and the next you’re shocked by the amazing winged creature that has just landed on the nearest tree. El Paso just so happens to be a pit stop on the migratory path of many of America’s most ravishing beasts of fowl.

Here are a few of the basics of Birding (the art of bird watching) to help you take in the dazzling sights and sounds of March’s feathered guests.

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beauty

Birding

March, 2014

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WHAT’S FIRST? Maybe you have always wanted to be a birder . . . but simply haven’t had the time or instruction on how to actually go about doing it.

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• To begin your new hobby of observation, you are going to have to invest in a good pair of binoculars. There are a few things to consider before you make (a potentially expensive) purchase and to help you avoid buying a pair not suited for your desires, review the buying

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guide on the side panel for more information.

• The second item you will need is a good field guide. This will help you identify the birds — otherwise you will be blind and unable to link what you see with the exciting name, background, and other info the guide will give you about the specific species infront of you. Oh, and don’t forget your camera.

• Another helpful thing to do at the beginning of a new hobby is to find other individuals who share your passion. This could mean taking your children, spouse or enrolling in a club, meet up group, or tour made available online or through a state park. This is true for almost any sport or extra curricular activity, simply having a friend or partner-in-crime adds culture and a shared memory that will further engage you in the experience. This could also help you meet new people and enrich your growing circle of friends—not to mention help you stay active in the activity you shelled out all that money on binoculars for.

• Once you’ve got your gear and a buddy to share these encounters with, schedule to meet at a specific birding spot in the morning. Birds are known to get out and search for food early on in the day, getting an a.m. start may ensure that you see more of the rarer species’—after all the early bird gets worm, right?

• And finally, have goals! As you get wrapped up in the nature around you and the frenzy and excitement of finding and snapping a memorable picture of a unique breed of bird, let yourself get caught up in the drama. Make a list of all the birds you want to see—a birding bucket list of sorts.

This may even include traveling to various exclusive or faraway birding sites all over the world.

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March, 2014

birding

WHERE TO GO The great thing about our community is that there isn’t just one place to go to find the birds. In fact, El Paso has numerous birding sites, each attracting different types for different reasons. Here are a few of the best: Hueco Tanks State Historical Site

Wilderness Park Museum

6900 Hueco Tanks Road #1

4301 Transmountain Road

El Paso, Texas 79938

El Paso, Texas 79924

A home to various types of birds year-round,

With 17 acres of land at the foot of

while it is a bit of a drive to get to, the birders

Transmountain Road, this is an immense area

frequenting this site swear by its amazing

you could pair with a day of adventuring into

diversity. This is also a great place to take the

the Franklin Mountain State Park. Again, it’s

whole family; they offer guided tours, which

a good idea a to bring a friend—not only for

are great for making friends and learning

company’s sake, but also for safety.

more about the art of birding.

Keystone Heritage Park Rio Bosque Wetlands Park

4220 Doniphan Drive

10716 Socorro Road

El Paso, Texas 79922

El Paso, Texas 79927 One of the top locations on El Paso’s west 372 acres of explorable wetlands, this site

side, these archaic wetlands are also exquisite

during the fall and winter is flooded to re-

botanical gardens. Keystone offers guided

establish the wetlands and habits of El Paso’s

bird watching, as well as unguided days the

natural eco-system.

last weekend of every month for free.

Franklin Mountains State Park

Feather Lake

1331 McKelligon Canyon Road

9500 North Loop Drive

El Paso, Texas 79930

El Paso, Texas 79907

A unique place where mountain birds meet

There isn’t always water in this spot, but

desert birds, this is a scenic point to set

when there is you can be sure that a myriad

up shop as you hike and discover different

of birds can be found—specifically water

trails all over along Transmountain Road,

birds and various migrants.

overlooking the fabulous city of El Paso. www.thecitymagazineelp.com

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Birding

March, 2014

El Paso, Texas 79902

WHAT TO LOOK FOR:

Another little-known corner at the foot of the

to look for, here are a few that are among

Arroyo Park 700 East Robinson Avenue

With hundreds of different species of birds

Franklin Mountains, this is a neat place that

our favorites:

isn’t too far from civilization. Just north on

o American Kestrel

Stanton Road, you can enter the park through

o King Fisher

from the tennis club.

o Carolina Wren

Crossroads Pond

o Yellow Finch

Love Road

o Blue Heron

El Paso, Texas 79922

o Red Tail Hawk

If you don’t have a whole day to dedicate to

o Canvas Back Duck

birding, this is a fun site. Here you can look

o Black Throated Sparrow

for birds in the water as well as those found in the trees and vegetation.

o Cactus Wren o Canyon Wren

River Park Trail

o Rufous-Crowned Sparrow

Country Club Road

o White Winged Dove

El Paso, Texas 79932 This stretch of paved trail provides a great

o Verdin o Say’s Phoebe

site to see the best of the Rio Grande River from the New Mexico/Texas state line. The

Now get out and explore! A wonderful

birds are drawn to water and the shady

world of birds await . . .

foliage and trees that follow the curving river.

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FINDING THE PERFECT BINOCULARS: Choosing the perfect pair of binoculars can be tricky. There are a lot of items to consider before doling out the cash for an expensive pair that may not meet your needs. Here are a few suggestions to get your on the right track and out in the field with the best equipment possible: 1. Determine What Type of Birder You Are. Are you purely recreational, are you going to share your binoculars with children (think durability), have you been birding for a while and want to upgrade? How long of a time will you be actively looking through them? Do you have contacts or glasses? If you are shopping online, reading the reviews on various pairs will help you gauge if they’re the right binoculars for you.

All of these questions will determine what your mission is as a birdwatcher and will affect the model you choose to purchase.

2. Prisms.

There are two prominent types of prisms most binoculars have—porro prisms or roof prisms. The professionals usually

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have top range roof prisms. Avoid inexpensive roof prisms that do not have phase coating.

3. Determine a Budget.

Obviously we all have financial limits for our hobbies—we do have to pay the mortgage after all. Determine an allotment of money you are willing to spend and stick to it. With your aforementioned mission in mind, buy a pair in your price range that most matches you.

4. Get a Good Strap These bulky binoculars are going to be hanging from your neck for potentially a few hours, it’s very important that you feel comfortable. When you are trying straps on, imagine yourself hiking and bounding—don’t be afraid to jump around, you won’t regret it when all of your birding pals stare in wonder at the durability and coziness of your birding binocular straps. www.thecitymagazineelp.com

Jaguar El Paso 1444 Airway Blvd., El Paso, TX 79925

888-225-6093

www.jaguarelpaso.com *2014 Jaguar F-TYPE Convertible, 36 month lease, $4,995 due at signing includes $3,405 down, $0 security deposit, $795 acquisition fee and first month's payment, excludes retailer fees, taxes, title and registration fees. Actual rates and payments of closed-end lease may vary. Lessee responsible for insurance, maintenance, excess wear and excess mileage over 30,000 miles at $0.30/mile. Based on MSRP of $69,895 (includes destination and delivery) with a residual value of $41,937 as of 1/3/2014. For well qualified lessees as determined by approved lender. All amounts shown are estimates, retailer sets actual amounts. Residency restrictions apply. Lessee 131 has option to purchase vehicle at lease end at price negotiated with retailer and approved lender at signing. Termination fee may apply. See Jaguar of El Paso or call (915) 778-1444

November, 2013

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March, 2014

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SON OF EL CHUCO

MAKES GOOD INTERNATIONALLY | By: MARKO A. MORALES photos courtesy of: MADERO/CO. |

I

t may be difficult to understand why some people would choose to put so much distance between themselves and what they are meant to do. There are those who lack confidence, believing they

could never do anything that this world would ever be proud of.

There are others who have yet to figure out that among the saddest things in life is wasted talent. For Metal Sculptor David Madero Alvarez, it was out-and-out rebellion and for some time, a lack of interest in his own future.

After graduating from El Paso High in the mid-nineties, Madero moved out east and found himself spinning his wheels till the novelty of waiting tables and slinging drinks in Austin, Texas wore off. It took him doing a little soul searching and simply waiting for those faint whispers to become screams, before he decided on the path he would take.

While in elementary school and throughout high school Madero took trips to Mexico with his family, slowly becoming more and more familiar with its differences in comparison to the United States. In his twenties he decided to make the move. Following his parents down south made it possible for him to “... really get in touch with my roots,” Madero said.

“I was lucky that I had the opportunity to travel throughout the country, where I experienced magnificent colors, textures and tastes that had only been described to me by my parents and relatives.”

He recalls living as a majority of artists do, with empty pockets. As his girlfriend’s birthday was rapidly approaching, Madero felt his chances of keeping her at his side would be substantially better if he had a gift for her.

With a little determination and his father’s welding equipment, he fabricated a steel rose. He found it impossible to ignore the fact that an incredible ability had been passed down to him by his father, Rogelio Madero.

The self-proclaimed “late bloomer” found his niche, molding metal and steel into incredible works of art. Madero’s first large scale project was a collaboration with his father and is displayed a little over 250 miles north of the Sun City in Albuquerque, New www.thecitymagazineelp.com

135

March, 2014

Mexico. The 500 ft. long, 4 ft. wide fuchsia

His father felt it best to be influenced by

city he was born in and spent a large portion

“serpentina,” or Mexican party favor can be

one’s own experiences and surroundings,

of his youth. Especially since some of his own

seen as one drives down the main boulevard

as opposed to being influenced by another

father’s work is proudly displayed around the

towards the ABQ International Sunport.

artist’s work. “His best advice was to not

city. “I was born and bred there and it has a

idolize anyone, including him,” Madero said.

special place in my heart,” Madero mentions, “Hopefully, one day I’ll get a chance to go

Before completely realizing the talent he

back and exhibit my work.”

possessed, it bothered him slightly that he

For a man whose work can be found around

never received any formal training in the

the world and is asked frequently to hold

metal arts. Madero’s largest influence and

workshops in places like Italy, one might

Madero’s most recent completed project is

father insisted that the fact he didn’t attend

find it odd that he has yet to be given the

a life-size stainless steel representation of a

art school was a benefit, not a drawback.

opportunity to display any of his pieces in the

welder for an American based company out of

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March, 2014

Appleton, WI. commissioned by Miller Electric.

otherwise be taking up space and collecting

work can be seen all over the world,”

The steel sculpture is titled “Miller Man” and,

dust, and turning it into functioning artwork.

Madero said, “This is a great tool we have in our tool boxes; it has helped me immensely

“... the experience was surreal to me because I used their own equipment to sculpt a welder,

If he could give any advice to aspiring artist

to sell artwork overseas and through it, I have

that is using the same equipment I used to

it would be to catalog one’s work, no matter

received wonderful opportunities to give

fabricate him,” Madero said.

how poor, or unimpressive the artist him, or

sculpture workshops in other countries. It

herself might think it is. If nothing else, the

truly has turned into a global art community.”

Currently, Madero is scavenging discarded

artist will be able to see their progression. madero.co

airplane parts, old engines and other scrap metal materials to work on his new line of found-

“I can’t stress enough the power of social

david@madero.co

metal furniture. He is using material that would

media and having a Webpage where your

www.facebook.com/MaderoCo

12-8

11-29

11-24

11-10

10-27

10-13

9-29

9-15

9-01

Julio Julio

James

Julio

Springer

www.thecitymagazineelp.com

7315 Canutillo La Union Rd. Canutillo, TX 915-877-4544 zinvalle.com

137

March, 2014

The El Paso

CRUSH | By: MEAGAN FENNELL photos courtesy of: TERRY FENNELL |

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March, 2014

Sports

All-Star National Champions ark Grissom took his place at a table in

M

take the extra step and pave a path for these

an Arizona restaurant to enjoy lunch

young prospects to follow. The purpose of

following two baseball games. As he

creating the CRUSH was to emphasize the

looked across the table he watched as sixteen

fundamental aspects of baseball to these

teenage boys conversed about the games and

young boys and show them the mental side

Assistants: Eddie Menchaca

laughed together over Snapchats and stories

of the game. Mark Grissom not only wanted

Demitri Grissom

from school. The boys just finished playing

to accentuate the talent of the community

Neil Ybarra

two games in the USSSA Winter Nationals

but also provide the players with the ability to

Andy Cook

in Peoria, Arizona and were celebrating their

challenge themselves in order to succeed in

victories. On the 27th of December the team

all levels of their baseball careers.

Players:

Andres Alvidrez

commenced the tournament with a goal of

El Paso Crush Team Roster Head Coach: Mark Grissom

Drew Cook

representing El Paso and finishing with a sense

This particular CRUSH team was formed in

David Duarte

of satisfaction and achievement. Little did those

2009 with boys from all over the city. In three

Patrick Fennell

players know that the eight weeks of hard work

years, the CRUSH compiled a record of 178-

Dominic Grissom

and preparation would lead to more than just

15, won every local tournament, and also

Jose Irigoyen

a satisfying tournament, but an opportunity to

won a New Mexico State Championship and

Dante Martinez

showcase the true talent of El Paso’s youth

a USSSA Texas State Championship. They

Jesus Mendoza

and their ability to revolutionize sixteen players,

played in several national tournaments in

Jonathan Milan

from nine different high schools, into one

Florida, Arizona and Texas placing 2nd or 3rd in

Alejandro Minjarez

National Champion team.

some of these. However, it had been almost

Carlos Ortiz

two years since this team had played in a

Marcos Perea

In 2006 the CRUSH baseball team became

tournament when Mark Grissom decided to

Jonathan Quinonez

a reality when Coach Grissom decided that

bring them together again and give the Winter

Manuel Sierra

not only did he want to be an ambassador to

Nationals another chance; a tournament

Ivan Ulloa

his sons who played baseball, but wanted to

where they had fallen short two years earlier.

Neil Ybarra

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Sports

March, 2014

“This team is different than others I have coached in that they really appreciate the concept of putting 100% effort into their goal and avoiding the many distractions that young men of their age are faced with,” Grissom said. “When we set practice for a cold Saturday in December, when they could otherwise be many different places which would make for a much easier day after a hard week at school, every single player showed up and put the four and a half hours in on the field without a single complaint.”

The CRUSH entered the Winter Nationals tournament in the 16 and under age group that consisted of 24 teams from the region, including Arizona, Texas, Oklahoma and California. The CRUSH maneuvered its way through the tournament with ease. Out of the seven games played the team only allowed five runs and four of those games ended with the opposing team having no runs scored. On the morning of December 30th, the CRUSH players woke with one goal; to finish out the tournament the same way they started, confident and unified. Winning in the semi-finals with a score of 4-1, the team was on its way to the championship game that afternoon.

“Going into the final day of the tournament, we knew it would not be easy,” CRUSH player Patrick Fennell said. “After we won the semi-final game, we knew we were not going to go all the way for nothing. While warming up for the championship, we were all very calm, almost too calm, like we were about to go play just a normal game.”

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March, 2014

Sports

In the third inning of the championships, the team was down 2-0 and could see their chance of a victory beginning to disappear along with their drive and impulse to win the game. It was not until the 5th inning when CRUSH player Ivan Ulloa was hit by a pitch granting him the opportunity to go to first base, and then second due to a pass ball. It was at this moment when fate took over and revealed the significance of this one, single player being placed at second base. CRUSH player Patrick Fennell came up to bat and hit a double, allowing his teammate to score.

Although the team was still down 2-1 going into the sixth inning, the CRUSH was given the momentum they needed. The rally began when player Jonathan Milan hit a double, boosting the entire team’s confidence and picking them out of their slump. The team finished the 6th inning with a score of 7-2.

That championship that once seemed so far away was there in their grasp just waiting for them to clinch it. But the game still was not

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over. At this point in the game, the CRUSH’S only hope was their defense. The team had confidence in their pitcher, Carlos Ortiz, who was still pitching strong. One out, two outs . . . their dream was closely becoming a reality.

As the 1st baseman, Jonathan Quinonez, caught the final out, the whole team rushed the pitcher’s mound.

“There was a moment on the field after winning the championship, when I looked around at the boys’ faces, into the stands and on the field, at the faces of their mothers and fathers, grandparents, brothers and sisters, and the other coaches, and eight weeks of dedication and five days of real focus and effort all came to a peak of incredible satisfaction,” Grissom said. “The satisfaction being that these boys will carry what they just accomplished into everything they do the rest of their lives; that is, knowing the success that such an effort can bring and knowing what it means to share it with others who mean so much to you.”

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March, 2014

THE MAKER OF MEMORIES A Surprise Encounter with a Childhood Hero | By: AUSTIN SAVAGE photos courtesy of: UTEP |

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March, 2014

T

the maker of memories

he darkness had crept in on a

three hours broke as Johnny Melvin and

many El Pasoans believe. “It wasn’t that big

day that I had been avoiding.

his fellow UTEP Miners basketball team

an upset. We knew we were a good team.

The last remnants of a life

had pulled away from top-seeded Kansas,

We played a good game. There was nothing

that I had enjoyed had been

66-60. It was March 22, 1992. Don Haskins

spectacular about that game. We just played

packed up and moved into

had helped another squad carve another

well. We were good enough to beat them.”

storage and the future was as uncertain

notch in the annals of March Madness

enough to burden me with uncomfortability.

and this particular squad was on its way to

In their next game the Miners would lose

Super Bowl XLVIII had been on for awhile and

the Sweet 16. Melvin himself had played

a heart breaker to Nick Van Exel and the

I had initially planned to watch it with some

brilliantly that game leading the Miners with

Cincinnati Bearcats, who would then go on

friends, but the labors of moving had delayed

18 points and 5 assists.

to crush Anfernee “Penny” Hardaway and the Memphis State Tigers to advance to the

me more than anticipated and the Seahawks had long removed the drama of the world’s

I knew all this as a boy, and the hope

Final Four. It is torturous to play the game of

single-day-biggest-sporting-event by the time

for further advancement, a magical and

“what if?” but apparently I was not alone in

I made my way into the Corner Tavern to

legendary tourney run leading to a second

having played it over the last twenty years.

meet up with my buddy Ross.

title for UTEP, began to spring eternal from

“Man, we get by Cincinnati, I think we get

my youthful optimism. The next week, like

by Memphis too,” pines Smooth. It is the

As I stooled up at the bar feeling genuinely

much of the previous five months for me,

first time of the evening where a trace of

apologetic and looking to make amends, I found

was spent impersonating each member of

sadness creeps in, “and once we were there

Ross engaged in a conversation with a large

the squad on my mini-hoop, including the

who knows …”

man in a gaudy cap and black jumpsuit. I was

man they called “Smooth.”

We talk a bit more about his post UTEP

introduced to Johnny and we three sat, drinks in hand, seeking engagement that the Broncos

“I would pretend to be you...” I stammer.

career, his son who is now playing basketball

had failed to provide on a chilly Sunday.

Smooth Melvin smiles in between cigar

here in El Paso, a few of his ex-teammates

smoke and sips of Lone Star, “Oh yeah?”

(in particular the ones who have passed) and,

After a few minutes of football talk, Ross

“I can still name the starting five. Eddie

of course, a brief discussion of “The Bear.”

leans over and whispers into my ear, “He

Rivera, Prince Stewart, David Van Dyke, you

They were memories forged twenty-two

was a little upset because I didn’t know who

and Marlon Maxey.”

years ago by a young man who was part of

he was…”

Smooth’s smile widens into laughter. He

a great team playing under a legend in the

“Who?”

leans over and battles for breath, “Oh

month of March. Memories belonging to a

“Johnny.”

Marlon! Remember his Gumby hair?”

person who helped create a much larger one

“Who is he?”

“Yup.” (…And his line drive jumper and

for everyone in the UTEP community and El

Ross points to my left, “That guy.”

his kneepads and his odd running style... I

Paso. The least I can do is buy him a round

As my eyes trace the line pointed out

remember everything about Marlon Maxey

and shake his hand as he stands. “I better be

by Ross’ finger they come to rest on an

because everything about him was the coolest,

going. It’s cold and I need to get home.”

autographed photo above the bar. It is a

even his name...Marlon Maxey. So cool.)

With that, twenty-two years after that

moment of joy. A moment I know well. The realization of not only Johnny’s full identity,

I couldn’t keep Ross in the dark any longer.

game, Johnny “Smooth” Melvin gave me

but the remembrance of a particularly fond

“These guys were great.”

another memory, that of the man and father

memory strikes me between the eyes like

“We were pretty good.”

bundling against the cold and heading to his

Kurtz’s famed diamond bullet.

The casual statement of the claim lets Ross

home somewhere in El Paso. He is forever

know that it is indeed an undeniable fact.

linked to that moment in time and that one tremendous performance, but it is only a part

I instantly remember jumping off the couch and finding the embrace of my mother.

After a recap of the team’s accomplishments,

of him rather than the defining moment. As

We two circled around the living room in

told by me for some reason, Johnny states

he pointed out, there was nothing spectacular

each other’s arms as the tension of the last

something that deep down I have found

about it; it was in him all along.

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THE CITY AGENDA

March, 2014

March 2014

Concerts 1

Digitalism

1

w/ cashmere cat lowbrow palace • 9 pm

1 feb. 28 - mar. 2

El Paso Spring Home & Garden Show Find out what will be in style this spring at the El Paso Spring Home & Garden Show at the El Paso Convention Center.

Friday 2-7 pm, Saturday 10 am - 7 pm, Sunday 11 am - 5 pm. Admission is $7 for adults 17+ and free for everyone 16 and under. Seniors are $5, retired military are $5, and active duty military are free.

Info: elpasohomeandgarden.com

MAR. 1-31

Living History Hike to Lake Lucero For the El Pasoan who has never been to White Sands National Monument, here is your chance. This hiking tour is guided by living history actors and park rangers sharing the 10,000 years of history in the Tularosa Basin. Adults are $3, children are $1.50.

Reservations required.

Info: (575) 479-6124 or nps.gov/whsa

Burger Revolution burger records festival featuring nalgadas, lake of fire, & more proper print shop • 7 pm

11

Moving Units

16

w/ tom laike tricky falls • 8 pm

17

mar. 1 & 22

audacity, guantanamo baywatch, nightmare boyzzz, jc satan, & more lowbrow palace • 7 pm

Of Mice And Men w/ bring me the horizon

18

tricky falls • 7 pm

19

Bun B w/ kirko bangz tricky falls • 7 pm

3.1 West Texas Longhorns 3.22 Texas Scorpions

Alan Jackson w/ aaron watson

MAR. 1-2

27

don haskins center • 7 pm

Monster Jam 27

Blue October tricky falls • 7 pm

Schoolboy Q w/ isaiah rashad & vince staples

28

tricky falls • 7 pm

4

1

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feat. mccaulay caulkin lowbrow palace • 9 pm

Sun Devils Football

Monster Jam invades the Sun Bowl on Saturday, Mar. 1 at 7 pm and on Sunday, Mar. 2 at 2 pm. Tickets start at $12; pit passes are available.

Info: monsterjam.com

The Pizza Underground

So Sick Fest Pt. II 1

Come see El Paso Sun Devils Semi-Pro Football at the Socorro Activities Complex.

Games kick off at 6:30 pm. Adults are $7; kids 12 & under are $5.

Info: elpasosundevilsfootball.com

1

8

gap dream, cosmonauts, warm soda,

7

mar. 1

mar. 4-30

Hiking Tour at Hueco Tanks

Horse Racing at Sunland Park

Embrace the beginning of spring with a scenic day of hiking at the Hueco Tanks State Park. Bring a camera, water, and a backpack! Info: (915) 744-1532

Enjoy a day at Sunland Park Racetrack and Casino. Races start at 12:45 pm most days in March. Admission is free.

Info: (915) 874-5200 or sunland-park.com

mar. 7-9

Rhinos Hockey The El Paso Rhinos look to clinch a division title against the Dallas Snipers at the Sierra Providence Center. Faceoff is at 7:30 Friday and Saturday and 4:30 on Sunday.

Info: elpasorhinos.com

www.thecitymagazineelp.com

March, 2014

7 feb. 7

8 mar. 8

First Friday Artwalk & Ghost Tour

Behind the Scenes Adventures at El Paso Zoo

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

Get ready for a wild day of discovery as you go behind the scenes of El Paso Zoo. March 8th at 9 am. Registration is online, open to ages 7 and up only.

Info: (915) 521-1894 or elpasozoo.org/ zoo-adventure-schedule

7 mar. 7 & 21

Laser Tag at Biggs Field Biggs Field at Fort Bliss will host Laser Tag from 5-10 pm on two days in March. The $10 admission includes equipment rental.

Info: (915) 744-1532 or blissmwr.com

8 mar. 8

Power Kids Race El Paso Parks and Rec will host their first power wheels race and obstacle course runs for kids ages 4-9 at the Marty Robbins Recreation Center from 9 am - 2 pm.

Info: (915) 544-0753 or elpasotexas.gov/parks

11 mar. 11-15

2014 Conference USA Men & Women’s Basketball Championships March Madness! In El Paso! 31 teams, all hungry for a conference title and a bid to the NCAA tournament, are coming to UTEP for this year’s Men’s & Women’s Conference USA Basketball Championships. All games at the Don Haskins Center. Info: utepathletics.com

14 9 8

mar. 9

mar. 8

Super Kite Contest

Color Vibe 5K If you missed the Color Run last September, no fear--the Color Vibe 5K run is coming to El Paso March 8th beginning at 9 am at Ascarate Park. Registration is $40 a person online.

Info: thecolorvibe.com/elpaso

Get your kite ready for a day of windy competition! The 12th annual kite-flying contest is sponsored by Westside Community Church and will be held at Francisco Delgado Park behind Franklin High School. 12 - 3 pm; free admission.

Info: westsidecommunity.org

8

11

mar. 8

mar. 11-14

St. Patrick’s A.C.T.S 8K & One Mile Walk St. Patrick Cathedral School is hosting an 8K and 1 Mile Walk at 8 am. Registration is $20 and $15 for kids ages 10-14. First 250 registrants receive a free t-shirt.

Info: raceadventuresunlimited.com/03

www.thecitymagazineelp.com

Children’s Art Camp The El Paso Museum of Art wil host a week of Art Camps during EPISD’s Spring Break, including classes on cartoons and comics, metal artwork, and plaster cats.

Members are $75, non-members are $60.

Info: elpasoartmuseum.org/classes.asp

mar. 14

Las Cruces Arts Fair 95 award-winning artists will come together for a week of painting, weaving, leather, glass, photography, pottery, jewelry, metalwork, sculpture, mixed media, painting, porcelain, woodworking, drawing, and much more.

Info: (575) 623-6403

14 mar. 14-16

Sun City SciFi The Sun City SciFi Convention offers fans of the genre a great weekend to meet and interact with other sci-fi followers. The convention runs three nights from 6 - 9 pm at the El Paso Convention Center.

Info: suncityscifi.com

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March, 2014

March 2014

15 mar. 15

El Paso Pro Musica Classical & Beyond On March 15th, Carter Brey, principal cellist for the New York Philharmonic, and pianist Gabriella Martinez will grace the halls of UTEP’s Fox Fine Arts Recital Hall for an evening of beautiful harmony.

Begins at 7:30 pm. $25 for adults, $20 for seniors/military, and $5 for students.

Info: (915) 833-9400 or epmm.org

15 mar. 15 & 17

Birding Tour at Hueco Tanks The greater El Paso area is surprisingly a hub for some of the U.S.’s premier bird watching. Team up with guides and you are sure to see the best of over 200 species of birds that frequent Hueco Tanks. Bring binoculars, camera, water, and plenty of sunscreen.

Info: (915) 849-6684 or tpwd.state.tx.us

29 mar. 29

21

Cesar Millan

mar. 21-23 & 27-30

National Geographic TV star Cesar Millan and his canine companion, Junior, will be sharing their philosophy and methods for pet training. El Paso’s dog lovers won’t want to miss out. At the Abraham Chavez Theatre, 7:30 pm.

Info: cesarsway.com

UTEP Theatre Presents The Arabian Nights Stories of love, mischief and magic come to life in The Arabian Nights. The UTEP Department of Theatre & Dance invites you to experience this timeless tale of tales in which, Scheherazade endeavors to save her own life through strategic storytelling and prolonged endings.

Mary Zimmerman’s adaptation offers an ingenious mixture of familiar and not-sofamiliar fables. Join some of El Paso’s most thrilling young talent for an evening of 1,001 nights and a singular experience of storytelling at the Wise Family Theatre on the 2nd floor of the Fox Fine Arts Center.

Info: theatredance.utep.edu

22 mar. 22

17 mar. 17

Bring it On: The Musical Inspired by the classic 2000 film, Bring it On: The Musical has been called “impossible to resist” by The New York Times. Doors open at 7:30 at the Plaza Theatre. Don’t be late--this is not a democracy, it’s a cheerocracy.

Info: ticketmaster.com

146

11th Annual German Spring Bazaar Just in time for Easter, Fort Bliss will host their 11th annual German Spring Bazaar at building 747 on Carter Road.

In addition to the many treasures you’ll find for sale, there will be German beer, bratwurst, waffles, cakes, and pastries.

All proceeds will be donated to various charities. Admission is free.

Info: (915) 568-0259 or betreuungineelpaso.com www.thecitymagazineelp.com

November, 2013

El paso’s only city lifestyle magazine pick it up at your local walgreens

thecitymagazineelp.com

147

El Paso Triple A Chihuahuas

Uniform Unveiling at THE JUDSON F. WILLIAMS CONVENTION CENTER | Photographed by LUIS MIRANDA, JR.

Black and White Party and Fashion Auction

St Clement’s Annual Gala at THE EL PASO COUNTRY CLUB | Photographed by LUIS MIRANDA, JR.

November, 2013

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November, 2013

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November, 2013

DREAM IN BLACK

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