The City Magazine September 2023

Meet Our Team Member!

Yvonne Aubel-Mazza, FNP-C

Born and raised in El Paso, Texas. She began her nursing career in 2008 as a Licensed Vocational Nurse. Immediately upon graduation, she pursued her degree as a Registered Nurse while working in the Emergency Room. Yvonne’s passion for nursing evolved into her pursuing her Master’s Degree in Nursing in 2019 from The University of Texas at El Paso. She has been a Family Nurse Practitioner for four years. She has been part of Dr. Agullo’s elite team since 2017, and assists with a multitude of cosmetic facial and body treatments. Through her 15 years of medical experience, she has developed in-depth knowledge and clinical competence to render a wide scope of patient care. She enjoys spending time with her family, and thrives on making people feel better about themselves and more comfortable in their own skin.

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With its rectangular design, this enchanting home offers you a private office (ADU) with a stone fireplace, private bath with a full kitchenette and an adjoining mystical courtyard with a fireplace. The surroundings, feeling quite reminiscent of Alice and Wonderland, delivering the “WOW” factor you wish for in a home.

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September 2023

EL PASO/LAS CRUCES magazine

FASHION · HEALTH · lifestyle

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Shelley Mozelle | shelley@thecitymagazineelp.com

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Letters addressed to The City El Paso Magazine become the property of the magazine, and it owns all rights to their use. Letters may be edited for space. All rights to the contents of this magazine are owned in full by the magazine and may not be reproduced in whole or in part without written permission from the Editor in Chief. Views expressed herein are those of the authors and advertisers and do not necessarily reflect the opinion of the ownership or management of the magazine.

From the

Not many people know that I almost had a career in the NHL, sort of. I applied to a handful of internships for the Fall of 2012, my first semester of graduate school in D.C. and landed one in the media relations department of my favorite hockey team, the Washington Capitals. I couldn’t wait to interview players like Alex Ovechkin and while rooting for my team on the ice. As fate would have it, a strike in the NHL in 2012 caused my internship offer to be rescinded. I accepted another internship at National Geographic, began covering live music at night, and the rest is history.

My love of hockey started in El Paso when I was a little girl because of my dad and the El Paso Buzzards. My dad and I would go to home games together at the El Paso County Coliseum, where he taught me the terminology and the etiquette of fights on the ice. I loved (and still love) the speed, grace, and power of the players as they glided across the ice weighed down by 20 pounds of hockey gear.

About 25 years later, my family and I returned to the Coliseum and walked to the El Paso Rhinos Hockey Rink for the Kraft Hockeyville USA game, which is a HUGE deal that you’ll read about in the cover story. I was joined by my parents, fiance, sister, and her husband as we all donned our NHL team’s jerseys and hoodies, and I remember that being among the first fun I’d had since the pandemic.

Long story short, the local hockey community has had an enormous impact on my life and an even larger one on the community.

I’m so excited for you to read about the ways Cory Herman and Corey Heon (plus Archie Bear!) have created an ice hockey oasis in the desert.

Our Fun in the Fall issue is full of community events, attractions, and organizations that you’ll want to cozy up to.

From Claudia’s story on El Paso’s newest candy-colored cafe to Nico’s editorial on the culinary excitement happening downtown, I’m confident your appetite for entertainment and aesthetics will be satisfied – but don’t blame me if the stories have you hungry for more.

Fun in the Fall can also mean low-key nights sipping tea or a cocktail while playing chess with the El Paso Chess Nerds and the community they’ve created. Their love of the game is “matched” by their enthusiasm for inviting people to join them.

Another favorite fall activity is lounging at home, cozy, and safe nestled in bed with a blanket and a book. Unfortunately, many in the community do not have safe or secure homes, but one nonprofit called Harmonious

Home is partnering with organizations like the Center Against Sexual and Family Violence to expertly and lovingly design and style apartments and small homes for families in need. Prior to the family’s move-in date, the volunteers select furniture that is moved into the living spaces, and then arranged by a professional interior designer. The families enter their new homes and are welcomed by beautiful spaces designed with them in mind.

As we approach the cooler months, I hope we can keep our hearts warm and minds open to the ways we can continue to be good to each other and to strangers. It blows my mind that we’re in September and now busy, BUSY, planning the Best of the City 2023 (don’t miss nominations and voting!) but I’m so proud of the work we’ve done and the good things that lay ahead.

May we fall deeper in love with our lives this fall.

Erin COULEHAN

Senior Editor

Megan MEHL

Nico SILVA-SALINAS

Amber LANAHAN

Sergio OLIVAS

Jordan LICON

Stephanie AMERENA

Contributors

Claudia FLORES

Maggie BLOSSOME

Shelley MOZELLE

BEHIND THE SCENES & ON THE SCREEN

| By: ERIN COULEHAN

of: CARLOS CORRAL |

photos courtesy

INDEPENDENT FILM!

LIGHTS!CAMERAS! ACTION!

The El Paso Film Festival is back for its sixth consecutive year, and will be held from Thursday, September 28th through Saturday September 30th in downtown El Paso at the Philanthropy Theater, El Paso Museum of Art, and the El Paso Convention Center.

Carlos Corral, founder and artistic director of the EPFF, is thrilled to once again have the opportunity to unite local, regional, and national filmmakers. The EPFF is among the largest showcases of independent film on the far edge of Texas, connecting a diverse group of film lovers, filmmakers, and community members on a bi-national stage.

“I’m so excited and amazed that this is our sixth year – especially after surviving the pandemic. We’re still going strong and happy to bring independent film to downtown El Paso,” says Corral. “Watching the growth of this festival has also helped grow the independent film community in El Paso. A lot of filmmakers from cities like Austin, Dallas,

Los Angeles, and New York City know that El Paso has an independent film festival. The number of out-of-town filmmakers increases every year, and I’m happy that El Paso has become a destination for independent film,” he adds.

Since its inception in 2018, the festival has partnered with the Film Festival Alliance and is a member of the Texas Motion Picture Alliance, which have been instrumental in ensuring the EPFF is a regional destination event that can both stimulate the local economy, while also whetting cultural and artistic appetites.

The EPFF will feature more than 60 features and short films, and is the first time that half of

El Paso Film Festival

the programming is accessible free of charge, with free screenings held at The El Paso Convention Center and El Paso Museum of Art.

“We’re offering a lot for free this year so that the community has an opportunity to better get to know us,” says Corral.

This year’s EPFF special guest is Elizabeth Avellan, renowned producer known for ‘Desperado,’ ‘Spy Kids,’ ‘Sin City,’ ‘Machete,’

‘Death Proof, and ‘Predators.’ Avellan will be joined by director Lance Larson on September 28th to present their latest film, ‘Deadland,’ as the festival’s opening night feature that the filmmakers say will resonate with local audiences.

‘Deadland’ is a thriller about a U.S. Customs and Border Protection agent who attempts to apprehend the ghost of his father, which haunts him.

“The original idea for Deadland was born from a short film script I wrote about magical realism in the U.S. / Mexican border titled ‘El Paso,’” says Larson. “The city of El Paso plays a pivotal role in the film and it brings me great pleasure to screen the film at the El Paso Film Festival.”

‘Deadland’ premiered at SXSW 2023 as part of the Narrative Spotlight category that Avellan says is a natural fit for the Borderland.

“I’m excited to participate in the El Paso Film Festival for the second consecutive year. This year we are bringing our film, ‘Deadland.’ I cannot imagine a festival run for this film without screening it for the good people of El Paso,” she says.

The EPFF film line-up also includes ‘A Brief Silence’ about a first-generation college student as he grapples with caring for his mother and sacrificing his dreams; ‘Breaking the News,’ about journalist Emily Ramshaw’s launch of the first nonprofit, nonpartisan news organization in the United States; and ‘Blood, Sweat, and Beers: The Making of a

“I’m super excited to debut the rockumentary here in El Paso, where most of it was shot,” says Holguin.

Corral and his team have also partnered with Creative El Paso and Destination El Paso to bring industry professionals to the EPFF by offering a multitude of panel discussions on topics that range from podcasting and social media, to video games, graphic novels, and film, to the challenges of independent film production and unveiling truth through the lens.

“By coordinating with the El Paso Film Festival, our Second Annual Creating Ways Conference can reach a larger audience,” says Drew Mayer-Oakes, El Paso Film & Creative Industries Commissioner. “We can capitalize on the amazing guests the festival brings to El Paso and bring local and industry creatives together to participate in our free, educational and informational forum.”

Comedy-Rock Classic’ by local journalist and filmmaker Robert Holguin.

El Paso Film Festival

He Did it His Way

(From the Memories of a Trophy Girl)

| By: SHELLEY MOZELLE photography by: SERGIO OLIVAS |

My Dad, Tom Mathis, otherwise known as Grandpa Tom, is behind the wheel again, and that should scare us all!

I grew up listening to the roar of the micro midget racetrack. The crowds yelling for their driver, (car number 711) the gasp of the crowd as the inevitable wreck spun crashing into the side rails, the hush, while waiting for the driver to climb out of his car, dazed but able to wave to the crowd before the emergency medical techs catch him as his body starts to go limp, before his helmet drops to the pavement.

This is the life of the racing family. It’s not a “what if” moment, but a “when” moment. It’s a nerve-wracking sport and car racing is a lifestyle of its own.

I’m five years old and I know my destiny.

I’m the “trophy” girl (a different meaning in the early 60s than in the late 90s). Anxiety builds all week and it’s finally race time, presenting the win-trophy, the win-kiss, the photo pose, then we run off the track before

the next starting flag is waved. It’s an honor to be chosen, to hand the trophies to the winning drivers. It’s our family’s legacy and even as a five-year-old, I took it seriously.

Let’s go back in time to the best day of Tom Mathis’s racing career.

He’s 21 years old, he’s got the looks, he’s got the charisma, he’s got the handsome family, and he’s a winner. On the weekend, he drives micro midget race cars, and on the weekdays, he works at the high-end men’s clothing store, selling to the most boogie “suits” in the city. When the day is over, he heads to the car shop where he works with the boys – my uncles, and my granddad –until late in the night, making sure every bolt is tightened, every cylinder is firing, and that his racecar is fine-tuned to win. He’s a proud member of the micro-midget auto racing fraternity.

Only the driver’s pit-crew and family are allowed in the pits. It is an honor, like the VIP section at a concert: everyone wants that seat, but few have access to it.

The wives kiss their racing husbands, marking them as “taken” in front of the crowd, suggesting that the “kiss” will bring them luck. It’s a staged performance kiss, but one that the crowd expects. The pit-crew tweaks the engine until the last moment, the engines are tapped to a high roar as they head to the starting line. The starter waves the flag, and the adrenaline rush begins.

Hit the brakes and brace for impact because he’s at it again. Tom feels the need for one more trophy, and it comes in the form of a 1957 red Chevy pickup.

Time has passed, 60 years of time, but the innovative minds that car racing attracts doesn’t rest.

You would think Tom could dismiss the need to build one more car, the need to hear the fine-tuned engine roar, the need for speed. Nope, he has the yearning to see the finished build of one more car. Tom frequents the Barrett Jackson Car Show, buying and selling, but it was there that he saw “the truck.”

A red 1957 Chevy truck in mint condition, and another dream begins.

This is the fuel for the future, his legacy. Mix that life with the life of his grandson, Chaz Wilson, who inherited a knack for the track, racing a Ferrari on the Las Vegas Speedway where he received the “Top Ten ‘’ fastest time in its history. Chaz has an international driver’s license and chooses to drive through Italy (we can’t discuss his speeds), instead of taking the much more common form of transportation by train. Chaz instinctively shares his love and appreciation of cars. The 80-year-old Tom needed a driver to haul this special truck to the “best” in the industry, and Chaz was the man.

He Did it His Way

The timeline goes something like this:

June 2022 Purchased the cab of the very rare, 1957 Chevy Pickup

July 2022 Picked up the custom-built, LS Crate Corvette 700 horsepower

August 2022 Fabrication at Goats Rod & Customs in Carlsbad, New Mexico

August 2022 Picked up the custom-fabricated chassis at All American Billet

In Phoenix, Arizona

August 2022 Picked up the supercharged motor in Dallas, Texas (the motor needed to operate with a 6-speed on the floor, as opposed to the original 4-speed transmission that came with the truck)

July 2023 All leather upholstery by The Custom Stitching Co. in Apache Junction, Arizona, and custom design by Gale Smith

July 2023 Unique custom-built stainless steel exhaust system

August 2023 Hammer Performance in Sunland Park, New Mexico put the truck on a dynamometer system to calibrate the supercharged motor and the gear ratios (The speed ran 145 in 3rd gear on this system, the truck will run 200 mph)

August 2023 Airbag suspension was upgraded, so it drives like a new truck

What makes building cars from the ground up so special?

You’ll have to ask someone who feels the burn: there’s just something about being behind the wheel, something about looking at the rare, flat 57” windshield model, or the custom one-of-a-kind herringbone tilt pickup bed.

Tom Mathis says, “It turned out to be more than I expected, once I got started, I got carried away and there was no place to stop. I’ve built one of the nicest pickups in the country.” It’s been described as an impressive one-of-a-kind supercar with a classic truck shell. When asked how much money he has in the truck, he’ll tell you, “Only the insurance knows that answer, but it’s a lot!”

We all know there are often generation gaps between grandchildren and grandparents, but Chaz and Grandpa Tom found their commonality, their mutual passion.

During their road trips something unexpected, something very special happened. The gaps were closed and filled with precious moments, connections were made and forever bonds were forged. Those shared moments, while traveling from state to state to get truck parts and visit specialized engine mechanics, resulted in stories that the two aren’t allowed to re-tell.

Chaz says, “In so many ways this truck has been a gift of memories. Driving the road and looking at the miles of white lines seemed to hypnotize us with a bit of truth serum. We talked about family history I’d never heard, about regrets and about successes, about business, but mostly we laughed. These road trips will always be some of my best adult memories.”

Theirs is a shared connection for the passion of cars. The travels from state to state have resulted in shared laughs during the day

(let’s not forget cocktails) and dinners during the night (again, cocktails) that will always be special moments. If you run into this duo, there’s no argument that they’ll be the most entertaining part of your day.

Tom is still behind the wheel, but as time passes, the script will flip, and it will be Chaz driving his grandpa. Their truck journey has been signaled by the white flag, signifying one lap remaining, and soon, the drop of the checkered flag that falls will signal the end of the race.

Car racing is as much of a nationwide pastime as spending time with a grandson and grandpa. At the end of the day, Tom Mathis doesn’t run wide open like before, but he still likes the speed. Winning isn’t everything anymore, this time around the track it’s more about the journey between a grandpa and his grandson.

Tom will always be able to say that this time in his life was fun, and that the 1957 truck is special because he did it his way.

Tickled Pink CreationsCandy-Colored & Coffee

| By: CLAUDIA FLORES photos courtesy of: EDUARDO GALINDO |

Imagine walking into a place covered in pink. From the walls to the décor and food, Café Rosé is here to illuminate the streets of downtown El Paso with all shades of pink.

Established in February of 2022 in Ciudad Juarez by owners Eduardo Galindo and Carolina Herrera, Café Rosé is ready to expand to the other side of the borderland, located at 207 E Franklin Ave.

“One day, my friend—now business partner—and I were talking about unfinished projects

we had, and we always struggled to find a good place in Juarez where we could have a drink or brunch without having it at a restaurant or sports bar,” Galindo says. “It was after that conversation that we decided to open the café and it would be a place that would focus on brunch.”

One of the eye-catching elements of Café Rosé is the saturation of different shades of pink. According to Galindo, the color was always part of the concept, but the more they worked on

the décor, the more the color led them to turn the place into a pink café.

For Galindo and Herrera, it was essential to not only create a place where people could gather to enjoy a drink or have brunch, but also make sure that the aesthetic of the cafe is as exceptional as the service.

“We primarily wanted a visually aesthetic place for social media,” Galindo said. “A place where you could take pretty photos of your food and yourself with nice backdrops is what we do today, so including that was important too.”

While most cafés will limit the themes of a place to its décor, Café Rosé offers customers a great variety of foods that range from pink chilaquiles or a pink burger to heart-shaped waffles and more.

One of the most beloved menu items by customers is the pretty-looking Teddy Shot, a take on the classical Italian affogato but with a teddy bear on top.

According to El Pasoan and Café Rose patron, Edgar Trejo, the candy-colored café is an excellent place for a date.

www.thecitymagazineelp.com

“We go maybe two times a month to get out of the routine,” Trejo said. “Something I like about this place is that I can take my girlfriend there to have a good time while drinking coffee.”

Trejo, who lives in El Paso, used to travel to Ciudad Juarez to visit the café. Trejo says that having a location of Café Rosé in his hometown will not only be more convenient for travel reasons—since sometimes the

lines from Juarez can last up to two hours for his return—but it will also bring a unique spot to the city.

“It is a nice place to spend a few hours and take cute photos, but also, I believe that having more places like these in El Paso brings uniqueness to the city,” he says. “Places like these will bring more people into the city, and other local businesses will also benefit from that.”

According to Galindo, part of the concept behind Café Rose is to have a fun and photogenic place to visit within the Sun City.

“The place is a tourist spot you can visit without having to leave town. El Paso is a large city, and we’re missing a lot of things. I feel other smaller cities have those fun spots,” Galindo said. “El Paso is growing.

You have Fountains at Farah, Eastlake, West Town, so we need to have more options.”

While Galindo and Herrera have been successful with the business in Juarez, one of the challenges they face is supplying the demands the café creates.

“A week after we opened, we went viral on social media; that was truly the key to our success, but luckily for us, that amount of work is the challenge,” Galindo said. “When we first opened, we were only a pastry and coffee place, but after going viral we shifted things, added more things to the menu.”

To secure a spot at the café, reservations are encouraged by Galindo and his work team. This will avoid customers the inconvenience of waiting in line or not being guaranteed a table at their estimated time.

“We apologize for the inconvenience the waitlist could cause our customers. This issue also led us to expand the dining area in Juarez; it was truly the demand that pushed us to take that step of expanding the café both in Juarez and El Paso.”

Aside from solely expanding the café and serving customers, Galindo explained that creating a healthy work environment is also an important aspect of what keeps the business thriving.

Galindo assured that the people who work next to him are key to the success of the café.

“We don’t call them employees, they’re people we work with because we support one another; we’re a team and incredibly united,” Galindo said. “If you don’t have a group of people that supports you, it is harder to work efficiently, sometimes life happens, and you need a group of people you can trust.”

While Galindo knows the challenges of running a business and maintaining a healthy environment for both customers and workers, he advises up-and-coming entrepreneurs that although it is hard, it is not far from reach.

“Honestly, be patient and your perseverance will take you further. Your project will give you the relicense you need to accomplish it. It definitely won’t be easy, but it is possible,” Galindo shared.

Galindo added that Café Rose is about creating a place for any occasion gatherings, from birthdays to simple brunch to engagements, the place is open to receive and welcome members from the community of El Paso.

FEMAP Celebrates

| By: ERIN COULEHAN photos courtesy of: FEMAP |

Over the last half century, the world has experienced enormous growth and innovation when it comes to medical technology, interconnectivity, and access to medical care that is having a positive effect on communities on both sides of the U.S.-Mexico borders.

This month, FEMAP is celebrating its 50th anniversary by honoring the last half-century of work, while also looking ahead to the future. FEMAP’s mission is to ensure the community has access to highquality integrated medical care, education, health care prevention, and social development.

“FEMAP is commemorating its 50th anniversary by establishing a five-million-dollar trust fund dedicated to fostering growth and ensuring sustainability. As part of the celebratory events, FEMAP successfully hosted its inaugural Annual FEMAP Golf Night Tournament, aimed at supporting its Community Outreach Programs,” says Guadalupe Canales, President of FEMAP.

“Furthermore, FEMAP’s recent partnership with the Fox Family Foundation and Arriola Foundation stands as a testament to the 50-year milestone. Notably, the organization also proudly inaugurated the third Binational Dr. Jacob Heydemann Specialty Clinic – Reconstructive Plastics Surgery Mia Aesthetics Mission this month, September 2023.”

FEMAP was founded by Guadalupe Arizpe De la Vega in Northern Mexico and has been internationally recognized for its work. De la Vega was the first Mexican woman to receive the Woodrow Wilson Award in 2013.

“In 1973, with a new ideology Guadalupe Arizpe De La Vega empowered women, educating them how to gain control of their

FEMAP

FOUNDATION Throughout the Years

FEMAP founded by Mrs. Guadalupe Arizpe De la Vega to implement a community health model

First FEMAP clinic is established

Second FEMAP clinic is opened with two consultation rooms, four beds, and operating room

FEMAP model replicated throughout Juarez, leading to the creation of the Federation of Private Health and Community Development Association throughout Mexico

FEMAP’s micro-finance project is introduced to support women’s economic development

The Binational Specialty Orthopedic Clinic is created to provide care to children and adolescents from low-income families with orthopedic problems

El Paso-based FEMAP Foundation founded by Adair Margo

FEMAP’s first formal education spaced, the FEMAP School of Nursing, is opened

FEMAP’s comprehensive youth program is established

Academic exchange program with Stanford University begins

FEMAP launches Community Health Prevention Fairs and Early Detection of Diseases program

FEMAP’s Family Hospital earns its first accreditation from the Health Department

The Community Model for Early Detection of Cervical and Breast Cancer adopts the mobile clinic modality

Construction of the new FEMAP School of Nursing begins

FEMAP Institute of Higher Studies is formed

The second Binational Specialty Clinic for craniofacial treatment is created

The Pink Ribbon Cancer Boutique is opened

FEMAP celebrates 50th anniversary

reproductive lives. This ideology not only changed the image she had of herself, but made her a proactive being, founding FEMAP. De La Vega’s vision has not only been empowering women but the whole family,” Canales explains.

FEMAP’s motto is “Transcending Borders. Transforming Lives.” FEMAP binational alliances improve the quality of life of vulnerable low-income children with complex health issues without access to medical care at no cost and provide links between the El Paso del Norte region to address mutual education and public health concerns.

In 1993, Adair Margo created The FEMAP Foundation in the U.S., a non-profit organization established to complement regional efforts

to improve the quality of life for those living in poverty via healthcare, education, outreach, and economic development.

Today, FEMAP’s three pillars, Hospital de la Familia and Clinica de la Familia, FEMAP Nursing School and the Community Outreach Programs have shown a significant impact in the Paso del Norte region.

FEMAP uses a multifaceted approach in three strategic areas to bolster health along the border: health, education, and social programs. In the past five years more than 1 million procedures have been performed at FEMAP clinics that have helped more than 500 people.

Every month, physicians and other generous talents donate their time and services to

FEMAP’s clinics that lead to improved quality of health (and life) for families in Juarez and other cities throughout Mexico.

One component of FEMAP’s growth is the binational and bicultural partnership with El Paso Children’s Hospital, as well as other organizations like Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center El Paso (TTUHSC) and University Medical Center of El Paso, as well as The Hospitals of Providence, that makes the lifesaving care and procedures performed by physicians from El Paso and Juarez possible. FEMAP is planning to bolster its services and grow alliances by inviting the community to learn about the organization and contribute to its continued success.

Dr. Jacob S. Heydemann, trained in pediatric and adult orthopedics, began practicing in El Paso, Texas in 1985. He has done pro-bono work for children since 1987 with a Juarezbased non- profit organization FEMAP to

bring medical assistance to children with orthopedic malformations.

“Since the conception of this program, FEMAP has been willing to work with me in assisting and providing care for children,” says Dr. Heydemann. “I went into medicine to help people, and this gives me the opportunity to do that. I believe that we are here to try to make the world a better place, and if we don’t give back then we’re really missing something.”

The first Binational Specialty Clinic created by Heydemann and Olga Delgado was established to provide care to children and adolescents from low-income families with orthopedic problems who lack insurance or access to medical care. In 2017, the second Binational Specialty Clinic- for Craniofacial treatment was created by founding doctors Dr. Vernon Burke, Dr. David Yates, and Dr. Natasha Furchtgott, providing care to

children, adolescents, young adults, and adults with craniofacial problems that affect speech, eating, and breathing. In September 2023, the third Binational Specialty ClinicMission for Reconstructive Plastic Surgery was created by founding Dr. Sergio Alvarez and Mia Aesthetics, providing breast reconstruction to women who have suffered a mastectomy due to breast cancer.

“FEMAP envisions a future where the Binational missionary clinics flourish and thrive, consistently identifying and addressing the core needs of the community through essential aid,” says Canales. “The Community Outreach programs are the heart and soul of FEMAP’s identity, reflecting its origins 50 years ago in the form of the Promotora program, which has since transformed into an army of Promotoras who empower women with health education and health services, pioneered by Guadalupe Arizpe De La Vega as the first Promotora.”

Mystical Market Bringing the Magic Back to Reality

| By: STEPHANIA AMERENA |

When you think you’ve seen what El Paso has to offer, the opportunity manifests itself to learn and change your perspective on what you thought you knew about El Paso. This can be found at the one and only Keystone Heritage Park and Botanical Garden. The Garden itself highlights the natural desert springs running through the park, it has trails through the wetlands, and an observation desk to watch the countless types of native bird flap and glide through the blue sky. That’s only to name a few of its features. After only a few steps through the Garden will the misconception of El Paso being only a barren desert will begin to wash away.

Another part of the surprises that are hidden in the Garden are the variety of events held within.

From tours and environmental presentations to yoga and weddings, all are available to the public to experience. Thanks to Event Coordinator and Master Naturalist RubyAnn Gaglio, she has been able to give these events their time and place to shine. One of those events is the monthly Mystical Market.

Even though they celebrated their two year anniversary this August under the rare Blue Moon, Gaglio when board member and volunteer, Kevin Von Finger passed away. Along with his contributions to the Park, he was the avid host of many lively parties that would be planned around certain

celestial dates. Gaglio took his passing hard and wanted to keep his parties alive, so she hosted similar events to celebrate the seasons. When she was approached by Michelle Bocanegra, owner of Tooth and Veil Oddities and Macabre Shop, the idea of those events expanded to a monthly magical market that follows the celestial calendar.

Gaglio not only loved the idea but saw the potential of how it can benefit the community. Not only with supporting local businesses, but also give the opportunity for connective growth and understanding. “El Paso is more cosmopolitan than people realize,” she said. “There is all of this history here and all of us should learn from every side of it. If we all understood each other, maybe we would like each other more.”

From there Gaglio, Bocanegra, and many volunteers got to work on nurturing the Market to what it is today. While Gaglio organized everything on the Garden’s side, Bocanegra works as the vendor curator to ensure that standards for maintaining the market are kept at a high level. Visitors can appreciate the Garden while also visiting the 15 to 40 different vendors as they are spread out throughout the park.

As visitors walk through the paths, they will be met with many vendors who sell soaps, oils, paintings, and other handmade items, like at other farmers or crafts markets.

However, visitors can also cross paths with tarot card and palm readers or even vendors who make their own herb bundles and other natural apothecary medication.

Another aspect that makes the Mystic Market unique is the fact it not only has vendors and food, but live entertainment of Loteria, dancers, and musicians.

Either in the Garden’s pavilion or their amphitheater, Gaglio calls out each Loteria card, but mixes it up by giving fun facts about the images. For El Arbor she will point to the mesquite trees and give a brief history of their benefit to the area. For some of the more unique cards, like El Borracho, she will call for a show of hands for whoever has gone to Juarez for a fun night out on the town. The laughter and cheers keeps the game not only fresh and fun, but also educational.

In another part of the Garden, cheers continue from the audiences enjoying the elaborate fire fusion and belly dancing performances from the groups Hipshum and/or the Blood Moon Order.

Even though they thrive in the same genre, each troupe has their own unique grace when it comes to their dancing. Blood Moon Order builds their dances and selects their music based on the theme of the event. Hipshum uses a different approach, with signals through calls or specific moves

hidden in their fire to improvise their dances. This way, both troupes ensure that every performance is one of a kind.

The shows don’t stop when the fire goes out but are continued by the musical artists.

While the guests will be swayed by the siren songs of different local musicians and their chosen instruments, there is another inclusive option.

Drummer G’Beda hosts a drum circle that invites guests to play. With a welcoming hand, G’Beda guides guests who are interested, even if a little afraid, to sit and learn simple patterns to get the feeling of the beat. It is not long before the guests are lost in rhythm and entice more to join this new experience.

The September market will be held on the 30th to celebrate the Autumn Equinox.

Along with all of the vendors, entertainment, and food that regulars can expect, there will also be a ritual performed to honor nature and welcome in the Autumn season. Many first timers would be surprised when witnessing that none of those fearful or ugly elements that have been sensationalized by movies or TV are present. Instead, it’s inclusive, calm, and peaceful while flower petals are spread, and incense is lit.

With this embrace of mysticism, Gaglio explained how it eliminates the fear of the unknown and misunderstood. “Things are connected, and every culture is celebrating each other without even realizing it,” she said. “Seeing the commonality amongst people who on the surface appear vastly different is the way for people to accept each other and respect each other without fear.”

The Garden and Master Naturalist booth also tries to combat this fear of the unknown when it comes to local wildlife.

With bird skulls, pelts, etc. guests of all ages can ask questions and learn about how wildlife actually interact with the environment. Accomplishing the goal of replacing fear with respect. With all of the good their booth does, Gaglio wants to expand upon it. By reaching out to other groups like the Cactus and Rock Club, the Native Plant Society, and the new Butterfly Collective, she wants to feature them in future markets to bring awareness of their causes and keep them active and thriving.

When asked if there was any concern about the community not connecting as hoped, even with the growth of the market, Gaglio simply smiled and said, “This is an organic garden. We allow things to bloom in their own time.”

What do you specialize in?

As a financial professional and active member of the community, Inaam has dedicated her time to helping individuals and businesses achieve their financial goals through planning strategies. Inaam assists business owners and medical professionals build a solid foundation for financial wellness by helping protect their income, build their net worth, invest, evaluate tax strategies, and plan for unexpected events.

How do your services benefit El Pasoans?

Inaam continues to support local individuals and organizations to uplift our growing professional community. With the expansion of small businesses and professional spheres across the city, Inaam works diligently to educate and establish a long-term relationship through high levels of wservice for any El Pasoan seeking financial wellness and literacy.

Ethos Financial 221 N Kansas St., El Paso, TX 79901 (915) 759-4072

Ethosfin.com

What do you love most about your job?

As a financial advisor, Inaam is invited to participate in significant life decisions for clients. It is a privilege to be trusted with this role and to walk alongside clients through this process, actively educating them on the shifting financial world. Inaam loves adding value to clients’ lives and witnessing their success.

Why should readers turn to you for their financial needs?

You have plans for you and your family: goals you’re working for today and dreams you’re striving toward in the future. Creating a financial plan that reflects your needs can minimize the impact of economic instability, increase your financial confidence, provide holistic guidance, and prepare you for events and transitions. Inaam works to make this process simple, uniquely tailored to your priorities, and act as an ongoing resource for any questions or concerns you have along the way.

Patriot Tax Service

(915) 637-0036

patriottaxep.com

10725 N Loop Dr. Suite 1 Socorro, TX 79927

14010 Horizon Blvd. Suite M Horizon City, TX 79928

What do you specialize in?

Patriot Tax Service specializes in personal and business tax returns and audits. Also offering a credit repair program.

How do your services benefit El Pasoans?

Patriot Tax has provided the Southwest with more than 15 years of experience helping the community’s financial needs.

What do you love the most about your job?

What we love the most about our job is being able to serve the community effectively and with integrity. Building relationships with our clients, they know they can rely on us for all their tax concerns year-round.

Why should readers turn to you for their financial needs?

Readers should turn to Patriot Tax for their financial needs because of our longlasting history of excellence and passion serving the community as a leading tax company.

What do you specialize in?

At our firm, we’re dedicated to delivering personalized financial advice and strategies to help you achieve financial success, security, and peace of mind, including solutions to protect your assets and loved ones.

How do your services benefit El Pasoans?

Our financial services are well-suited to benefit a community with close ties to Mexico. We specialize in cross-border financial expertise, helping clients optimize their financial situations on both sides of the border. Our tailored solutions support the diverse local economy, offering business owners strategies that align with El Paso’s key industries like healthcare, manufacturing, and trade.

What do you love most about your job?

What we cherish most about our job is the profound sense of fulfillment that comes from genuinely helping our clients navigate the intricate world of finance with successful strategies and solutions.

500 N. Oregon, 2nd Floor, El Paso, TX 79901 (915) 444-7983

centuryplantwp.com

Why should readers turn to you for their financial needs?

Clients should turn to us for their financial needs because our mission is aligned with their aspirations. Our passion is to build a tailored roadmap and execute transparent solutions to fulfill each client’s unique financial requirements. We foster financial literacy to empower informed choices, and our commitment to strong client relationships ensures financial security and bright futures.

Why do you serve El Paso?

We proudly serve El Paso because this vibrant city is where we grew up, and it holds a special place in our hearts. In El Paso, the sense of community is unparalleled. We deeply appreciate the rich multicultural tapestry that El Paso offers, where diverse backgrounds come together to create a uniquely inclusive environment.

Century Plant Wealth Partners

What do you specialize in?

At Lawton Winter Investment Group, we specialize in keeping our clients and their families at the forefront as they encounter major life events: marriage, children, preparing for retirement, as well as protecting and transferring estate assets. We also specialize in the accumulation and preservation of wealth with some of the most appropriate investment insurance and income strategies designed to offer quality, flexibility, and liquidity through a long term investment approach.

How do your services benefit El Pasoans?

Our registered team makes sense of complicated wealth challenges with over a century of combined financial advice, guidance, and experience.

Theresa L. Winter is an Accredited Asset Management Specialist. This professional designation further emphasizes her planning ability related to clients’ estate, insurance, taxes, and retirement. (Securities Licenses Series 7, 66, and 63)

Kenley D. Lawton is a Private Investment Management Portfolio Manager. (Securities Licenses Series 7TO, 1, 3, 8, 9, 10, 63, and 65.

Why should readers turn to you for their financial needs?

Through knowledge, integrity, and dedication, Lawton Winter Investment Group helps guide you in managing your resources to address today’s needs and realize tomorrow’s dreams with a team approach to your financial confidence.

Profiles

El Paso’s auto industry is driving the community into the future when it comes to purchasing a vehicle, restyling, and more. The auto pros in the pages to follow are experts in their industries, helping El Pasoans avoid speed bumps in their automotive journeys.

Charlie Clark Auto Group charlieclark.com

What makes your business stand out?

We’re very different from other dealerships because we provide a FUN buying experience! We’re not your typical dealership that’s often quiet and boring. Our environment is always festive! Plus, we offer warranties unlike other dealerships, like oil changes and car washes for life and “Nana’s Lifetime Warranty.”

Why are you in the automotive industry?

I was born into the car industry. My great-grandfather opened a Chevy store in the 1930’s in McAllen, Texas that is still open today.

How did you get started in the automotive industry?

After college, I worked for the Hendrick Automotive Group, widely known in NASCAR, with over 100 dealerships nationwide. I learned a lot during my years there before returning to work with my father at our family’s Chevy store. I then decided to venture independently and acquired a small Nissan store in Harlingen, Texas, and ultimately grew from there.

Why should readers turn to you for their auto needs?

We’re always honest with our customers and treat everyone with respect, all while providing a great buying experience.

What do you love most about being in El Paso’s

automotive industry?

Being a part of this town is wonderful. The people here are amazing and loving, and this region is beautiful. I feel like I’ve been here all my life!

Disclaimers: Nana’s, Oil changes, Car washes COMBINED: Limited powertrain warranty, subject to terms and conditions, availability, qualification and approval. Oil changes 4 per year. Oil changes for life on new vehicles only. Warranty and Oil changes are non-transferable. Car wash limited to one per week during the life of the ownership of vehicle. Exterior wash only.

Photography provided by Charlie Clark Auto Group

What makes your business stand out?

We are a business that truly cares about our customers. We give “Nana’s Lifetime Warranty,” oil changes for life, as well as car washes for life on all of our vehicles.

Why are you in the automotive industry?

This industry allows me to help people in many aspects.

How did you get started in the automotive industry?

I started selling cars in 2012 and worked my way up.

Why should readers turn to you for their auto needs?

We provide a unique buying experience for each and every customer.

What do you love most about being in El Paso’s automotive industry?

The ability to help, lead and develop relationships.

Disclaimers: Nana’s, Oil changes, Car washes COMBINED: Limited powertrain warranty, subject to terms and conditions, availability, qualification and approval. Oil changes 4 per year. Oil changes for life on new vehicles only. Warranty and Oil changes are non-transferable. Car wash limited to one per week during the life of the ownership of vehicle. Exterior wash only.

Charlie Clark Infiniti Teresa Montes, General Manager 6501 S. Desert Blvd. El Paso, TX 79932 (915) 465-1800

Infinitiofelpaso.com

What makes your business stand out?

Charlie Clark Infiniti is the only luxury brand that offers a lifetime warranty, oil changes for life and car washes for life.

Why are you in the automotive industry?

I’m in the automotive industry because it’s my passion and my calling.

How did you get started in the automotive industry?

My brother introduced me to the car business when I was 17 years old.

Why should readers turn to you for their auto needs? Readers should turn to Charlie Clark Infiniti because we offer world class service to all of our customers.

What do you love most about being in El Paso’s automotive industry?

What I love most about being part of El Paso’s auto industry is getting our customers approved, and then putting them in their dream cars.

Disclaimers: Nana’s, Oil changes, Car washes COMBINED: Limited powertrain warranty, subject to terms and conditions, availability, qualification and approval. Oil changes 4 per year. Oil changes for life on new vehicles only. Warranty and Oil changes are non-transferable. Car wash limited to one per week during the life of the ownership of vehicle. Exterior wash only.

Platinum Tint & Restyling

11601 Pellicano Dr. Suite B1

Platinumtint915@gmail.com

What makes your business stand out?

Our high standards and impeccable attention to detail set us apart from our competitors. We offer automotive, residential, and commercial tinting services to meet the needs of the El Paso community, which are backed by strong warranties and great pricing.

Why are you in the automotive industry?

Our shop is the sheer result of our genuine love for cars. We aim to set a new standard in tint and restyling with innovation, technology, design, and customer-focused strategies. We, ultimately, strive for perfection on every project we commit to.

Platinum Tint & Restyling

PlatinumTint915

How did you get started in the automotive industry?

We have a long-standing automotive background. Platinum Tint & Restyling’s CEO, Johnathan Guliman, was raised in the California car culture. His wife and partner, Rocio Ortega Guliman, learned about the industry from her father.

Why should readers turn to you for their auto needs?

We’re a one-stop shop where you can do it all — tint, paint protection, and vinyl. We ensure high quality and customer satisfaction, and to achieve this objective, our brand of choice is Global Window Films. The quality of our work solidifies our customers’ confidence in the final product, while our work speaks for itself.

What makes your business stand out?

At RightDrive, we’re all about culture and community. We believe in taking care of our people and giving back to our community. Giving our employees a great work life balance, in addition to highly competitive pay, are what helps RightDrive hire and retain great individuals.

Why are you in the automotive industry?

I enjoy helping people with what generally is the 2nd most important purchase in their lives. Early on, I saw an opportunity to do things differently when it came to the car buying process.

How did you get started in the automotive industry?

I walked into a franchise dealership in 2007 and applied for a sales job. I was able to quickly work my way up and held positions such as finance manager, finance director, general sales manager, and even general manager of several local

franchise dealerships. In 2017, two other partners and I launched RightDrive with the goal of providing El Pasoans a better way to buy a car.

Why should readers turn to you for their auto needs?

We do things differently, and our customers love it. At RightDrive, you deal with one person that can handle everything from start to finish. This not only makes our process fully transparent, but our customers can also get into the car of their dreams in 60 minutes or less.

What do you love most about being in El Paso’s automotive industry?

I love the people, the culture, the growth, and the opportunity the city provides. I’ve built lifelong friendships with people I’ve worked with in the business as well as the people I’ve had the opportunity to serve.

Photographed by: SERGIO OLIVAS

Torresdey Motors 7358 Alameda Ave. El Paso, TX 79915 (915) 772-4747

Torresdeymotors.com

What makes your business stand out?

We are family owned and operating for over 30 years, our excellent customer service is something we pride ourselves on. We focus on providing excellent quality vehicles recently new and used at an affordable price. Being in the automobile industry for so long we offer a wide variety of financing options and have partnered with over 30 lenders.

Why are you in the automotive industry?

Being in a competitive industry, we decided that the best way to help our community was to make the car buying process as easy and efficient as possible, while also providing high quality vehicles.

How did you get your start in the automotive industry?

I was first introduced to the automobile industry in Ciudad Juarez, Mexico with my father and 3 brothers. My passion for

Torresdey Motors

Torresdey Motors

vehicles is what really started the business, buying and selling only a few cars, selling on a street known as “la curva.”

Why should readers turn to you for their auto needs?

People should trust our experience in the automotive industry due to the years we have in business. We understand that buying a car is one of our customers’ biggest purchases which is why we give everyone a strong commitment in provide the best service possible.

What do you love most about being in El Paso’s automotive industry?

We love the community of El Paso, and the many opportunities and blessings it has given me and my family. The satisfaction that comes from helping others, especially those that have helped me for so many years, is why I continue to do what I love.

Poe Toyota 6330 Montana Ave. El Paso, TX 79925 (915) 775-2000

What makes your business stand out?

1) Employees commitment and customer service

2) Toyota, best car manufacture on the planet

3) The atmosphere and comfort of our facility

Why are you in the automotive industry?

I love the car business; this month is my 40th year serving El Paso.

by:

How did you get started in the automotive industry? I started as a mechanic and worked my way up to where I am today.

Why should readers turn to you for their auto needs? Trust and all-around experience in parts, service, and sales.

What do you love most about being in El Paso’s automotive industry?

I love taking care of everyone’s automotive needs.

Why should readers turn to you for their auto needs?

Readers should turn to us for the thrill of the ride! If anyone needs group transportation or wants to rent a high end vehicle, we provide it all. Whether you are in need of a charter service, tour bus, fun park getaway, professional sporting event, music concert, wine tour, special event, employee appreciation trip, family reunion trip, business or sales convention transportation, we have your travel covered.

What do you love most about being in El Paso’s automotive industry?

When it comes to our tours, I love seeing the smiling faces. When it comes to groups, it’s really cool to be a part of all the local athletics and other group needs. As far as high end car rentals, well, who doesn’t want to be around cool cars?

Hammer Performance 2000 Appaloosa Dr. Sunland Park, NM 88063 (915) 838-5956

hpbuilt.com

Hammer Performance

hammerperformance

What makes your business stand out?

At Hammer Performance, we pride ourselves on offering the best quality products and the best customer service in the Southwest. We want our customers to love what they drive.

Why are you in the automotive industry?

We have one goal and it’s simple – to help you. The team at Hammer Performance values the opportunity to make a living by doing something that we’re all so passionate about. Our passion for our work has helped contribute to the success of the work we do for our customers.

How did you get started in the automotive industry?

A lifelong love of vehicles sparked an interest to turn it into a career that started in college working for Nitrous Outlet and continued after with a Top Fuel internship.

Why should readers turn to you for their auto needs?

We do all that it takes for you to love what you drive. Whether you need lights, bumpers, suspensions, power adders – or all of the above – we are here to ensure that your dream becomes reality on time and within budget.

What do you love most about being in El Paso’s automotive industry?

We proudly serve the Southwest and have an inherent love of vehicles. Serving the El Paso community has given Hammer Performance an extensive service radius, while also allowing us to work with great people on their dream vehicle.

Photographed by: SERGIO OLIVAS

Advanced Auto Collision Repair Center Inc. 7676 Alameda, El Paso TX. 79915 (915) 772-2690

advancedautocollision.com

What makes your business stand out?

We’ve been in business since 1979, and are a fully-equipped collision repair shop with trained technicians and the latest equipment needed to repair today’s vehicles. We are a Direct Repair Partner for most major insurance companies and we’re proud to repair the El Paso Police Department’s cars and vehicles.

Why are you in the automotive industry?

Advanced Auto Collision Repair Center Inc. is family owned and operated by second and third generations. We support and teach at El Paso community College and Riverside High School.

How did you get started in the automotive industry?

We’ve been in business since 1979 – the last 43 years! Today, we are led by Johnny, who is second generation, and Jason and Alessandra who are third generation. Developing our future technicians.

Why should readers turn to you for their auto needs?

We know that today’s repairs are tomorrow’s lifesavers – trust us!

What do you love most about being in El Paso’s automotive industry?

The best thing about being part of the El Paso community and automotive industry is meeting people while also providing quality repairs and lifetime warranties.

Photography provided by Advanced Auto Collision Repair Center

What makes your business stand out?

Tint World stands out by being dedicated to customer satisfaction, backed by the franchise’s renowned quality standards. In our inaugural year, we proudly achieved the “Best of El Paso” award, a testament to our pursuit of excellence recognized by El Paso Inc.

Why are you in the automotive industry?

Our passion drives us to deliver exceptional automotive solutions. Alex, having retired after 28 years in the Army, discovered his calling in running this operation within the industry.

How did you get started in the automotive industry?

Alex’s passion for the automotive industry led him to take the reins of Tint World channeling his energy into every car.

Why should readers turn to you for their auto needs?

Turn to us for a heightened vehicle ownership experience. From window tinting to Paint Protection Films (PPF), our commitment is evident. Assisting Alex is skilled shop foreman Arturo Cordero, with 15 years of tint, PPF, and wrap experience. Their expertise ensures every vehicle receives optimal care.

What do you love most about being in El Paso’s automotive industry?

We love helping customers transform vehicles into sources of pride and witnessing the impact on their lives.

RGS Performance Motorcycles

3974 Doniphan Dr, El Paso TX 79922 (915) 307-7926

rgseptx.com

What makes your business stand out?

Everybody in the shop is passionate about riding their motorcycles. We are a family-owned, as well as veteranowned and operated business. We keep up to date with new technology and products, while also restoring vintage motorcycles.

Why are you in the motorcycle industry?

We enjoy working and being a part of the motorcycle community.

How did you get started in the motorcycle industry?

We got started with restoring old Harley’s with friends.

RGS Performance Motorcycles rgshovelheads

Why should readers turn to you for their motorcycle needs?

Our team consists of riders with first-hand experience and understanding of what riders look for in terms of motorcycle maintenance and performance. We have trained motorcycle technicians who are specifically certified in Harley-Davidson motorcycles through the MMI program. Additionally, we are the only shop in El Paso with Techno Research Certification in Dyno Tuning.

What do you love most about being in El Paso’s motorcycle scene? Serving the motorcycle community and hosting events. Coming Soon: ‘The 4:44 Motorcycle Show” will be held on October 7th, 2023, at Epic Railyard from 11 AM – 7 PM. Register at RGS Performance Motorcycles or online at: the444motorcycleshow.com.

Photographed by: SERGIO OLIVAS

EL PASO CENTER FOR DIABETES

Dr. Claudia Martinez Boyd and Keith Boyd met at The University of Texas at El Paso (UTEP) in 1996. Since then, the couple has succeeded in many endeavors to help the El Paso community. Local business owners Claudia and Keith run all five El Paso locations of the national automotive service centers, Midas. Claudia also devotes her time as a professor in the communication department at UTEP and as the President of the Board at El Paso Center for Diabetes.

Over the years, Claudia and Keith have become passionate supporters of the Center. This passion derives from their experience with Claudia’s diagnosis of type 2 diabetes at 37 years young. Claudia knows how arduous the journey of diabetes can be and was fortunate to have a great support system to guide her along the way. The Center for Diabetes helped make a difference in Claudia’s management through education, support, and resource connections. Claudia and Keith’s mission is to provide the same resources for their community. “If we can help support the El Paso Center for Diabetes, we can provide an extra A1c test to screen for diabetes, diabetes education, cooking classes, nutrition classes, kids camps, resource connections, and support groups. These programs will impact and make a difference in the lives of those living with diabetes and all of those connected to them,” Claudia says.

Know where you stand for type 2 diabetes and take the free risk test at DiabetesNowWhat.org

“ These programs will impact and make a difference in the lives of those living with diabetes and all of those connected to them.”

- DR. CLAUDIA MARTINEZ BOYD

Goal

el Paso rhinos on the Power Play r

hinos thriving on ice under the watchful eyes of two Buzzards from Canada in West Texas might seem like a scene out of “The Jungle Book,” but it’s more like “The Mighty Ducks.”

At least when it comes to hockey and ice sports in El Paso.

“I think about when we started back in the early 2000s, and how big it’s gotten since then,” says Cory Herman, CEO of the El Paso Rhinos.

Herman and Corey Heon, the Rhinos’ President who oversees game operations and coaching development, have led the organization on a power play of success.

The two Canadians have worked (and played) together for more than 20 years; first competing against each other in Midget and Collegiate Hockey, then later as teammates on the El Paso Buzzards, and now as leaders of the El Paso Rhinos and the organization’s affiliated programs.

Together, they’ve helped develop an unlikely – but awesome – ice sports oasis.

“When I came down in ‘97 to play with the Buzzards, I would have never guessed that I’d be here more than 20 years later but things evolved to what we are today,” says Heon.

The El Paso Buzzards ceased operations in 2003, but a passion for hockey continued.

Herman created a youth hockey program in 2001, and the El Paso Rhinos was founded in 2006 with the mission to train players and help them achieve their goals.

“We started with the youth hockey programs first, then the adult programs, the figure skating, the Rhinos,” explains Herman.

Since the Rhinos inception in 2006, the organization has expanded its programming while also elevating the sport by cultivating the talents of individual players or climbing the ranks as a team. In 2008, the team’s second season, the Rhinos won the Thorne Cup after defeating the Phoenix Polar Bears, an early sign of the success that Herman and Heon would build upon.

Fifteen years later, the Rhinos became a NA3HL team in 2020 and then a NAHL team in 2021, which provides players with ample opportunity for growth and advancement.

“I’m really proud of the programs in the arena. When you sit back and look at where we once were – and where we’re at now – it’s just awesome,” says Herman.

The Rhinos and its affiliated programs are hosted at the El Paso Coliseum Events Center after sharing space at the Coliseum with non-ice events like rodeos and concerts. The dedicated space has helped cultivate a greater sense of community on and off the ice for athletes, coaches, and the community as a whole.

“Tyler DeLoach does a great job with our social media and community involvement,” says Heon. “We have a great following from our booster club, to the junior program, to the El Paso Hockey Association. Then there are the kids, their families, and of course our billet families who house the junior players.”

Rhinos players, mostly from much colder climates very far away, are introduced and integrated into El Paso through community engagement activities like participating in afterschool programs, volunteer work, and more.

“Because of all the volunteer hours that the Rhinos do with youth programs, schools and different things in the community, it’s really cool to see how many of those families and those kids come to the games to watch those players,” says Herman.

The immersion also helps with acclimation.

“Coming to El Paso after growing up or living in Minnesota, Canada, or Europe is a bit of a shock for the guys,” explains Heon. “This year we had training camps to get them into our facility and involved with the community.”

Playing for the Rhinos provides players the opportunity to impress scouts who can offer college scholarships.

“The Rhinos players are between the ages of 16 and 20 years old, and they’re basically coming down here to follow their dream to be a hockey player,” Herman explains. “A lot of the Rhino players will get Division 1 scholarships to go on to play on Division 1 hockey teams. Normally, a college hockey freshman is 21, so they’ll play with us until they’re 20, then get a Division 1 scholarship or go pro. That’s the whole point of junior hockey.”

He adds that the coaches make sure that the players have the necessary tools to be successful, like the right amount of

practice time and workout facility designed to fit their needs.

Herman’s and Heon’s approach is successful, as evidenced by the players and community response to ice hockey in El Paso.

The Rhinos’ enthusiasm was put on the national map after winning Kraft Hockeyville USA in 2020.

“Kraft Hockeyville is all about showing passion and dedication to a community’s spirit,” said Magen Hanrahan, vice president of media and marketing services at Kraft Heinz. “El Paso has shown how important El Paso County Coliseum and hockey is to its community.”

Winning the competition included $150,000 to make rink updates, as well as a NHL game hosted at the Rhinos Rink.

“Kraft Hockeyville USA shines a light on the immense value local ice rinks have to

communities across the United States,” said Brian Jennings, NHL Chief Brand Officer & Senior Executive Vice President. “Community backing is vital to growing the game of hockey and Kraft Heinz’s steadfast commitment to this initiative makes a big impact.”

The award funds from the competition went to rink improvements, as well as operational expansion.

“Winning Kraft Hockeyville USA really helped us out,” says Herman. “If it wasn’t for Hockeyville, we wouldn’t have been able to do necessary improvements to the rink so we could be open year-round.”

And what a blessing this has been.

It’s a hot August afternoon in El Paso, another long day of triple digit heat in the desert.

The ice feels nice.

El Paso Rhinos on the Power Play

Herman, his wife Shea, who is the Rhinos’ Director of Corporate Partnerships, and their son Archie Bear greet us on the day of our cover shoot and show us some of the most recent upgrades to the arena.

The air off the ice rink is brisk, a welcome reprieve from the summer and a gentle reminder that the cooler days of fall and winter are ahead.

Archie Bear zooms by in a miniature Zamboni while the grownups prepare to take photos, which isn’t something Heon and Herman are familiar with, but we are.

The last time The City Magazine was on the ice was to shoot our February 2022 cover with Heon’s daughter, Camryn. Like her father, Camryn is a natural on the ice – even if she initially detested it.

Heon first put Camryn in skates at about three years old, which was not a fit.

“I absolutely hated it,” she explained. “It was too cold and hard to skate, and I got into other sports like soccer.”

Not to be deterred, Heon gave it another shot when Camryn was six and has been a force ever since. Today, she’s a junior in high school who plays at a prestigious prep school in the Midwest known for cultivating Olympic-bound athletes. Additionally, Camryn plays on Mexico’s National Women’s Hockey team and has played in numerous world championships across the globe.

“My wife and I were blessed to have a beautiful daughter and have her grow up through the program,” says Heon proudly.

This month, Herman and Heon will remain busy at work to prepare the arena and the team for the start of the season in October.

“I’m just looking forward to another great year. Both teams are great, and we added some new programs to our youth programming,” says Herman. “Our whole goal is to be able to teach a kid how to play hockey in El Paso and have them go through our entire program, then hopefully get a scholarship and play pro hockey.”

Both Herman and Heon are confident that the skill of their players, expertise of the coaching staff, and dedication of the community will lead to a successful season.

“It’s an everyday grind and takes an army to do what we do and it’s a lot of fun,” says Heon.

More than anything, he’s looking forward to the Rhinos heating up the ice in the best way possible.

“I’m looking forward to winning.”

Book and Media Clubs

A Reason to Connect and Heal

| By: NICO SILVA-SALINAS |

The brain and mind are very powerful, and stories have the power to educate, process emotion, and heal communities.

According to many researchers such as Tasha Golden, PhD of the International Art + Mind Laboratory at Johns Hopkins University and Jill Sonke, PhD of the University of Florida Center for Arts in Medicine, the arts have the ability to empower us, connect us, and promote health. For those uninitiated: Book clubs are a way to connect with friends and family, meet new people, or build on relationships through the power of art. From poetry to creative nonfiction, to scientific journal articles, to autobiography, to graphic novels, to theatre, to experimental performance, book clubs and even broader – media clubs – are a great

way to celebrate every season, like fall and winter. I can imagine my friends and family enjoying their favorite hot beverage in a robe or in a comfy chair reading their next book in the colder months.

But why is it that we read so much in childhood and young adulthood to not really read later in life? Have we lost the wonder and pleasure that reading provides from getting us into other worlds, realities, thought patterns, and headspaces?

Book clubs can help remedy social isolation, bring you back to the joy of reading, and develop even more meaning to works you have already read and enjoyed, like books that El Paso Matters Book Club has featured, or books at Literarity, Brave Books, or Cactus Flower Bookery. If you are unable to leave

the house, bookshop.com exists and many online forums and zoom book clubs exist so you can be as global as possible.

My first book club experience was through a friend I made at the Border Aids Partnership Art Auction.

This book club has had established authors speak and hosted young artists who presented to us so we can support their work. I truly feel loved and cared for by my book clubs and it is always nice to have friends that are family.

During the holidays, if you may not have a place to go, book club can provide some cheer with festivity and connection. Some of the best recipes and beverages I have discovered at book club. Speaking about food and beverage, you can curate your menus to be inspired by the work you are reading. For example, having Vietnamese inspired dishes and beverages for an Ocean

Vuong book club. Or literally making dishes or drinks that are featured in the books.

Let’s say your group of friends does not enjoy reading long form works, maybe you can have a media club of film, television, performance, and sport. I know I will want to connect with friends and family after ‘Damn Yankees’ at the UTEP Dinner Theatre and ‘Les Misérables’ at the Plaza Theatre for Broadway in El Paso. The idea, according to the American College of Lifestyle Medicine, is that positive social connection is a pillar of health.

What better way to do it than with supporting local authors, art, and culinary art and among cherished people?

There are many ways to do it but if budgets allow: eat at a local restaurant, talk about everything else but the book then retreat to another business, possibly one that is quieter, or a house to talk about the book and how everyone felt about it. I love it when

my book club members see things that I don’t see, or we bond on certain aspects of work like the lived experience of a character. I love those nights of book club where I am in my feelings, surrounded by loved ones, full of food and laughter, and getting all the frisson or “chills” from remembering great pieces of work and media. It goes without saying that it helps to have people in the book club who actually read and complete the books, and also select great books because this will ensure sustainability and longevity of the group. No one wants a long stretch of boring or badly written work. But then also, with book club you are vulnerable and able to possibly read work you would not have otherwise if it weren’t for book club. The possibilities are endless.

On top of the social, emotional, and mental health benefits of the arts and – specifically the art of writing and reading – stories can give us empathy, show us things we haven’t thought about and help us have

tough conversations about controversial or important topics such as oppression, resilience, and trauma.

Local authors have described and brought voice to our border region and the strengths and challenges we face as a binational, bicultural region. We are blessed to have such talented writers and storytellers who either make El Paso their home or keep El Paso in their heart wherever they go.

I especially think of writers and playwrights from our sacred border region like professors from our institutions, National Endowment of the Arts award recipient Aldo Amparán, border hero Benjamin Alire Sáenz, recent Yale Drama Prize Winner Jesús I. Valles, New York Theatre Workshop Tow Playwright in Residence Victor Casares, Princeton and Dartmouth Professor of Directing and Playwriting and overall dramatic writing goddess Georgina Escobar, superstar Isaac Gómez, graphic medicine scholar and practitioner Dr. E. C. Dukes, Border Theatre founder, screenwriter and educator, Austin Savage, and many, many, more.

Another way of saying it is reading plays and musicals would be a great book club. And then mounting the production. A person can dream I suppose. Social connection and telling stories are truly life changing. It reminds me of what Teatro Quetzal has been doing.

Lastly, libraries are positive and critical resources for our community. Let’s support them, librarians, and their important staff. Enjoy your next book or piece of media solo or in a newly formed club; or join a club and reap the benefits of social connection and joy. It’s never too late to enjoy reading and who doesn’t want something to look forward to after a hard week or month of work and responsibilities?

Your brain, body, and spirit will thank you.

Chess, Please

COULEHAN

| By: ERIN

photos courtesy of: MARY MORECK |

Queens, pawns, and knights are being exercised in El Paso as the popularity of chess expands across the globe. Recent market data reveals chess statistics and trends in 2023 that may take some by surprise.

For example, about 605 million adults around the globe regularly play chess; and regular chess players are estimated to score 13 percent higher in intelligence tests. The rise in local chess groups is a testament to the timelessness of the game, as well as its ability to captivate players across different ages, regions, and cultures.

El Paso Chess Nerds is an organization dedicated to the local chess community. Interested chess players are encouraged to attend chess nights hosted at various bars around El Paso to sharpen their skills and make new connections.

“I feel like there’s been a burst of chess interest,” says Mary Moreck, founder of El Paso Chess Nerds. “When we started this, I didn’t realize so many people play chess. But as soon as we started having these events, people started feeling less scared about being ‘outed’ for playing chess,” she laughs.

The rise of chess and board game nights in El Paso corresponds to a growing trend in

public interest in strategy games played during a night out.

“Now it’s cool to play chess, and even cooler to win,” says Moreck.

Playing chess online exploded during the pandemic, with Chess.com reporting the monthly number of active users doubling from 8 million to 17 million from October 2020 to April 2022.

“Covid lockdowns created an environment where people stayed home and indoors, and they started to look for things to do,” says Erik Allebest, CEO of Chess.com. “Puzzle sales went through the roof. So did board games. In fact, all gaming surged, both online and offline. Chess, the granddaddy of all games, garnered a lot of attention.”

Like many, Moreck can’t precisely recall when chess became part of her life, but says some of her earliest memories are from the fourth grade chess club.

A New York Times article from earlier this year reports that many teens and young adults have

a regular chess habit although they find it difficult to recall where the interest began.

El Paso Chess Nerds started by accident, says Moreck, at Hope & Anchor.

Moreck wanted to play checkers, and was overheard asking friends for quarters for the pieces and was then asked if she also played chess that sparked the inception of El Paso Chess Nerds.

“We started playing together then planned an event at Hope & Anchor,” says Moreck. “A bunch of people showed up and based on the turn out we decided to do it again. We thought we had to start this group to bring people together to play chess.”

El Paso Chess Nerds meet primarily at local bars that Moreck says provides an opportunity to socialize.

“It gives you something to do other than drink and an opportunity to talk to people who you might not talk to otherwise. For us, it’s a way for strangers to meet each other and have something to do on a weeknight,” says Moreck.

Playing a chess match at a bar is also a good way to unplug from phones and social media, while also participating in brain exercises. “On these chess nights, no one is really texting. It’s cool because it gets people to talk to each other.”

The recent overwhelming support is a pleasant surprise for the chess aficionados.

“We’ve had venues reach out to us because they want us to have an event. We have attendees from our community who will reach out to us with different ideas, too, because they know we have access to the broader community to spread the word,” says Moreck. “We never thought there would be this many people who would show up and want to support us.”

Circa 1963 is located in the heart of downtown El Paso on the 5th floor of Hotel Indigo. Our rooftop bar has a cozy terrace and outdoor patio with stunning views of El Paso and our breathtaking Franklin Mountains. Circa 1963 offers a beautiful ambiance to unwind.

Harmonious Home Makes Meaningful Moves in the Community

| By: ERIN COULEHAN photography by: SERGIO OLIVAS |

We’ve all heard the adage that “Home is where the heart is,” but the comforts of home are unknown by many in the community who have survived domestic violence. For many families fleeing domestic violence, a sense of home is replaced by an ever-present state of survival mode, seeking to make it from one day to the next and many of these families have no place to go. For the families who are able to find sanctuary and allow them to rebuild their lives, heal from trauma, and work toward a future free of violence.

Harmonious Home is a grassroots Texas 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization created to prepare and design living spaces for families who are moving from transitional living centers or shelters to apartments or small houses. Volunteers from the organization work behind-the-scenes and on-the-ground before a family moves into their new home to assess the family’s needs, acquire furniture and home accessories, design and plan each room, arrange furniture, and collect feedback. By the time the family arrives, the home is fully furnished and expertly designed to be as comfortable, functional, and hospitable as possible.

The organization was created by Janet Wechter, a professional interior designer who applied her professional skills to philanthropic work for vulnerable families to feel comforted by expertly-curated interior design after living in a shelter.

“I wanted to bring beauty and care to the people in this vulnerable position,” she explains.

She is also a certified Kundalini Yoga instructor and has benefited from yoga and meditation for many years, so she places a yoga mat and kids book on yoga in every home Harmonious Home furnishes.She knows breathwork and meditation can positively affect their personal, work and school experiences.

She picks fresh flowers from her yard to place in a vase on their kitchen table to express that we care.

Harmonious Home’s all-woman board of directors includes Wechter, Melissa Goldberg, Leslie Beckoff, Marisa Lipscher, Elisa Panetta, Shea Marcus, Judith Ross who meet regularly to discuss the needs and past living experiences of each family.

Many of the families have lived in situations where multiple members share one bed in a single room.

“Can you imagine a single mom or dad not having resources and then dealing with all of this while not having a bed or room to be alone in?” asks Wechter.

Luckily, a partnership between Harmonious Home and the Center Against Sexual and Family Violence (CASFV) is helping more families develop a sense of home that includes comfort, safety, and dignity. Harmonious Home is furnishing homes that are safe, functional, beautiful, and inspiring families to live their best lives for clients from CASFV, The YWCA Transitional Living Center, and the MacGuire Center.

CASFV refers families from its Transitional Living Center into their own apartments that are furnished and styled by Harmonious Homes, its dedicated board, and additional volunteers prior to the family’s move-in date.

“The team assesses each family’s needs and carefully designs each room of their future home as they collect the furniture

and household items needed to create a welcoming environment,” explains Yazmin Perez, Director of Client Services at CASFV. “Harmonious Home coordinates all the donations, volunteer time, and design to place everything together before the families arrive at their new homes – a safe space to continue a life free of violence.”

Perez explains that Wechter’s expertise as an interior designer enables her to design each space in the home with a purpose to ensure a sense of safety, comfort, and overall well being. She and the Harmonious Home team consider elements like color psychology, lighting, sensory elements, and functional design within the living space.

“We do it with tender love and care,” says Wechter.“Each room gets a bed (some rooms have two beds), a nightstand, a lamp, and a little rug. They get pretty bedding –whether it’s new or gently used – and we try to put books in the apartment. In the living room, they get a couch, a coffee table, rug,

an end, table, and a lamp. The kitchens are designed with a table, four chairs, and a live plant,” she continues.

The attention and care to detail create spaces that facilitate healing, promote a sense of security, and also empowers families to rebuild their lives.

More than anything, Harmonious Home creates a space for hope in the household.

“Every element of the design contributes to these objectives, fostering an environment that supports survivors on their continued journey to recovery. In this environment, children can continue their education, parents can maintain employment, and everyone can establish routines that contribute to a sense of normalcy,” says Perez.

Harmonious Home acquires the furniture through purchase or generous donations, stores the items, then later facilitates the moving process to style the new living space.

“But what propelled us was Gator Tank,” says Wechter.

Harmonious Home was bolstered in 2022 after winning the Paso del Norte Community Foundation’s inaugural “Gator Tank” competition. Like the hit tv show “Shark Tank” where aspiring entrepreneurs pitch potential investors, non-profit organizations pitched their missions in the hope of winning first place that included a monetary prize. The win helped Harmonious Home gain momentum to help make vulnerable families’ dreams of a home become a reality.

For many of the families, the kindness seems too good to be true.

“Some of the clients don’t believe that we’re really giving all of this to them, because they can take all the furniture with them when they leave,” says Wechter. “But we explain what we’re doing, why we’re doing it, and what we hope to achieve – to change the trajectory of their lives.”

September 2023

Moving into a safe home that is stylishly and lovingly designed is emblematic of the hope of a new beginning where families can nest, set goals, make memories, follow dreams, and create a life free of violence.

“Moving into a safe home is a courageous step toward reclaiming one’s life. It marks a transition from being a victim to becoming a survivor, fostering a sense of empowerment and self-determination,” says Perez.

Harmonious Home is continuing its work with CASFV and will soon also start projects with new partners like The MacGuire Center to assist youth transitioning from foster care to adulthood.

“We’re transforming lives by transforming living spaces,” says Wechter. “We like to say, ‘From Shelter to Home Sweet Home.’”

MAYOR OSCAR LEESER

Mayor, City of El Paso

Celebrate Delicious Downtown Culinary & Beverage Art

| By: NICO SILVA-SALINAS |

TThe El Paso culinary and beverage scene is brimming with new and iconic opportunities to take your mind and body on an adventure. With more and more investment, creativity, and energy towards new concepts, ideas, and collaborations we are pushing our limits and truly discovering what border culinary art can be.

This is to say: I don’t exactly identify culinary art with expensive fine dining or out of town Michelin star performances all the time. Just like in the movie ‘Ratatouille,’ we can see that even the super tasters or critics in our life can have their breath taken away by home, family, taste, smell, and memory.

Or some of the best street tacos of their life.

When I think of food, I think of growing up with calabacitas con queso, meatloaf with mashed potatoes and vegetables, Sunday caldo while playing in my paternal grandparent’s backyard with cousins. I also think of the years and decades I have enjoyed in my life celebrating emerging and established chefs, cooks, family, friends, and their teams that make the machine of food and beverage run smoothly and optimally.

As a plant-based person, I love to promote restaurants that are taking risks and supporting vegetable-forward dishes and menus. At the time of writing, the second Annual Vegan Chef Challenge is taking place August 1-31, 2023 which gives me hope that all tables can have some delicious fruits and vegetables. Many local restaurants battle to make new vegan dishes and create communities for people who want to enjoy delicious plant-based meals and experiences.

In sync with the energy of El Paso Film, more and more food events and spaces are popping up to promote our cultures, our stories, and our craft.

On the topic of fine dining, who doesn’t want

delicate piano playing while a loved one looks into your eyes above the white linen and rose decorated table at the romantic Café Central? Maybe some Àmbar/Plaza Hotel relaxation after a show at the Plaza, Abraham Chavez or Philanthropy Theatre with their green countertops, fire, and gorgeous agave spirit selection? Perhaps either floor of Anson 11 for Anson Mills building vibes and conversations? Maybe a truly innovative collaboration dinner with a wine flight at Stanton House/Taft Diaz? Cocktails and appetizers at Park Tavern? Or, maybe, dancing and talking the night away at The Dome Bar and rooftop bars of La Perla, El Mirador, International Bar, and hopefully – more!

Sometimes you just want to chill before a big game or event, so you go to the local greats like The Tap for nachos and cold ones, or go to Pride Square to have some drinks, a slice at The Pizza Joint, and endless craft beer at Craft and Social.

Have you ever eaten with ghosts?

I see ghost tours happening soon as Halloween and cooler temperatures approach. More and more experienced and new designers and event planners are doing their best and we love to see it.

Recently, we have seen Get Together all vegan restaurant and bar open, more delis, coffee pop-ups, restaurants, and other amenities are opening. Off Stanton Street there is the Reagan, Luigis, and Mac’s place.

I also remember going to Casanova when they first opened.

So, in other words, I try to support everyone as much as I can but I definitely appreciate the places I regularly visit that are in and out of downtown (Also known as: writing or brunch vibes at Piedmont Cafe).

What foods, cuisines or events do you want to see in El Paso?

I am a personal fan of supper clubs, similar to book clubs in that you create a true community of people seeking delicious food, beverages, and time together. Food brings us together from celebrations to fundraisers. Food is an important part of our culture, health, and economy. I foresee an El Paso that will support not only the El Paso Downtown Restaurant Week, and others, but also everything after such as non-alcoholic beverage pop-ups, wine clubs, new cuisines, and ultimately risks and rewards of hard work and endurance.

Speaking of food, hunger is a major challenge in our region, from the students of our academic institutions to homes and home free individuals across the region. If you have the means, please volunteer, give what you can, and promote our food and housing organizations such as El Pasoans

Fighting Hunger, Kelly Center for Hunger Relief, and more. If you are dedicated to hosting amazing events and raising money or can give five hours a month of your time and skills—consider giving to make sure

no person goes hungry, especially those experiencing life challenges, disability, limited incomes, and more. Provecho and Bon Appetit!

Below are a few culinary events this month that’ll have you hungry for more!

September 11-17: El Paso Chamber of Commerce, 915 Restaurant Week

September 16: Progress 321, One Region, One Table

September 22-October 1: Downtown El Paso Restaurant Week

September 23: Taft Diaz and Instituto di Gastronomi Española, 2 Michelin Star Chef Master Class Alberto Ferruz begins

September 28: Noche De Estrellas Reverse Gala, El Pasoans Fighting Hunger

Spreading Hope and Awareness in September

| By: TCM + EPCH STAFF |

September is national Suicide Prevention month, which is an opportunity to raise awareness and discuss stigmatized topics in mental health. Mental health professionals across the country and in the Borderland are working to spread hope, information, and support.

According to the National Alliance on Mental Illness, “While suicide prevention is important to address year-round, Suicide Prevention Awareness Month provides a dedicated time to come together with collective passion and strength to address this difficult topic.”

El Paso Children’s Hospital responded to the needs of the community to ensure that the next generation has access to quality

mental and developmental health care in our region with the launch of a specialty clinic dedicated to childrens’ mental health. The El Paso Children’s Behavioral Specialists provide expert care for children and teens requiring care for developmental delays including autism spectrum disorders, Down syndrome and attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD). Additionally, the comprehensive behavioral health team also treats anxiety, depression, OCD, trauma-related disorders, bipolar disorder, childhood-onset schizophrenia, and other disorders.

The City Magazine collaborated with Charity Vizcaino, MA, LPC-Associate, supervised by Janise Pries, LPC-Supervisor and Behavioral Health Specialists from El Paso

Children’s Hospital to learn how El Pasoans can raise awareness on this important topic year-round.

Why is suicide prevention awareness month important in El Paso?

Suicide prevention and mental health awareness are important topics not just for El Paso, but for our entire country. There were nearly 50,000 suicide deaths in the U.S. in 2022, and the CDC found a 7.6% increase in suicide deaths since 2020.

Texas is the second largest state in the United States and has the second highest number of suicide rates in the nation. There are many factors that contribute to someone’s risk of committing suicide. Two that are significant in El Paso are a lack of access to

healthcarecand cultural stigma associated with seeking help for mental illness.

These numbers are a sobering reminder that there are systemic issues that are the root cause of such suffering. When we begin to educate ourselves, we can take actionable steps to make a change.

How can people integrate positive mental health habits into their everyday lives?

• Connect with those around you that provide a sense of belonging and support.  Maybe you feel this safety with blood relatives, or perhaps you find support in your chosen family, friends, or a place of worship.

• Get physically active! This doesn’t mean needing to join a gym.  Moving your body can look like taking a walk with family after dinner, playing a sport or taking a dance class. Exercise is proven to increase endorphins, which are neurotransmitters responsible for making us happy and reducing pain, stress, and anxiety.

• Practice mindfulness and gratitude. Mindfulness is the practice of being in the present moment, without judgment. When we are still, we can tune in to what our needs are and appreciate the “little things” in life that bring us joy. I recommend apps such as iCalm and Headspace to my clients to begin learning about mindfulness.

• Speaking of mindfulness, I encourage you to pay attention to what you consume and allow into your life. Whether that

is taking a break from social media, limiting consumption of news or setting boundaries in your personal or work life.

• Look back at the struggles and challenges you have overcome, no matter what is going on in your life at this moment, you made it through those difficult experiences and are here. You are capable and resilient!

What are some resources that community members can turn to if they are struggling with their mental health?

• Local crisis line at 915-779-1800.

• www.suicidepreventionlifeline.org/

• Call OR text 988

• National Suicide Prevention Lifeline at 1-800-273-8255

• If you are interested in connecting with a therapist via telehealth, you are able to see any provider who is licensed in the state of Texas. Also, www.psychologytoday.com is a great site to search based on insurance provider, issue and gender of therapist.

Who can benefit from mental health awareness?

We all can! One of the biggest known protective factors for our mental health is a sense of belonging, purpose, and community. This goes for the introverts out there too! As social creatures, we cannot do life by ourselves, we weren’t meant to and the good news is, we do not have to! When we educate ourselves on mental well-being, we are gaining the tools to make a difference in how we respond to those around us and better our collective community.

How can readers work to dispel stigma surrounding mental health?

It is a natural response to not want to talk about or acknowledge things that might be scary, or we are unfamiliar with. For many of us, we did not grow up with open dialogue surrounding our feelings or mental health so it can feel a bit awkward and vulnerable to begin speaking about. I encourage readers to offer compassion to both them and those in their lives/communities.

When most of us take time to reflect on someone we love or care deeply about, the idea of them suffering is painful. We have empathy for them.  That same compassion for those we love can be extended to individuals outside our circle as well. It’s a concept called common humanity.  Being able to acknowledge that we ALL struggle can help to normalize our human experiences.

What do you want readers to know about the work EPCH is doing for mental health/suicide prevention awareness?

“El Paso Children’s Behavioral Specialists work tirelessly to identify children and adolescents who present to us in distress or at risk of mental health decompensation in order to provide appropriate care or refer for higher level of care where indicates,” says El Paso Children’s Hospital Child & Adolescent Psychiatrist, Ijeoma Carol Ibeanu, MD MPH.

Indulge in Easy Autumn Drinks at Home

| By: AMBER LANAHAN |

W

ith temperatures starting to cool down as we work our way into the fall season, many of us look forward to our coziest sweater. While fall for the Sun City may come a little later than other parts of the U.S., the beverages below use a few of our favorite fall flavors to help transport you to a space of multicolored leaves and plush scarves.

A Caffeinated Morning

Nut of Ya Business

Ingredients

1/2 tsp Toffee Nut Syrup

1/2 tsp Hazelnut Syrup

1/2 tsp Vanilla Syrup

1/2 tsp Caramel Syrup

2 cups Milk of Choice

1/4 cup Vanilla Sweet Cream

Espresso/Coffee of Choice

Caramel Drizzle (optional)

Vanilla Sweet Cream

Ingredients

1 cup Heavy Cream

1 cup 2% Milk

1/2 cup Vanilla Syrup

1. Add vanilla syrup, heavy cream, and 2% milk into a bowl

2. Stir until evenly blended

3. Enjoy

To make Caramel Sweet Foam

1/2 cup Vanilla Sweet Cream

1/2 tsp Caramel Syrup

Latte (Hot)

1. Fill the steaming pitcher with 1 1/2 cups of milk of choice, 1/2 cup of sweet cream, and 1/2 tsp caramel syrup

2. Steam milk

3. Add toffee nut, hazelnut, and vanilla into a 16 oz glass

4. Add two shots of espresso and stir to blend syrup and espresso evenly

5. Pour steamed milk over shots and enjoy

www.thecitymagazineelp.com

Latte (Iced)

1. Add toffee nut, hazelnut, and vanilla into a 16 oz glass

2. Add two shots of espresso and stir to blend syrup and espresso evenly

3. Pour 1 cup milk

4. Add ice, leaving 1/4 inch of room

5. Prepare Caramel Sweet Foam

Add 1/2 tsp of caramel syrup and 1/2 cup vanilla sweet cream to milk frother (or a small container if you have a handheld frother) Froth milk into a smooth foam

6. Top beverage with caramel sweet foam

Brewed Coffee (Hot/Iced)

1. In a 16 oz glass, add toffee nut, hazelnut, and vanilla syrup

2. Add 1/4 cup creamer/milk of choice

3. Fill with coffee, leaving 1/4 in the room (for the iced version, leave 1/4 inch of room after adding ice)

4. Prepare Caramel Sweet Foam

Add 1/2 tsp of caramel syrup and 1/2 cup vanilla sweet cream to milk frother (or a small container if you have a handheld frother) Froth milk into a smooth foam

5. Top with caramel sweet foam

Note: Top either hot or cold beverages with caramel drizzle for some razzle-dazzle with an added touch of sweetness.

Cinna Pumpkin Spice

Ingredients

1/2 tsp Pumpkin Syrup

1/2 tsp Cinnamon Syrup

2 cups Milk of Choice

Espresso/Coffee of Choice

Whipped cream

Cinnamon Powder

Pumpkin Creamer (optional)

Your Afternoon Boost

Latte (Hot)

1. Fill the steaming pitcher with 1 1/2 cups of milk of choice, 1/2 cup of sweet cream, and 1/2 tsp caramel syrup

2. Steam milk

3. Add toffee nut, hazelnut, and vanilla into a 16 oz glass

4. Add two shots of espresso and stir to blend syrup and espresso evenly

5. Pour steamed milk over shots and enjoy

Pomegranate Black Iced Tea

Ingredients

1 1/2 cup of Black Tea (chilled)

1/2 cup Pomegranate Juice

1/2 tsp simple syrup

Ice

1. In a 16 oz cup, add simple syrup, black tea, and pomegranate juice

2. Stir to blend evenly

3. Top off with ice and enjoy

Time for a Brown Sugar Chai

Ingredients

1 cup Brewed Chai Tea

1 cup Milk of Choice

1/2 tsp Brown Sugar Syrup

1/2 tsp Vanilla Syrup

Cinnamon Powder

1. Steam or heat the milk of choice

2. In a 16 oz cup, add brown sugar, vanilla syrup, and brewed chai

3. Pour steamed milk into the chai

4. Sprinkle with cinnamon powder and enjoy

Evening Cool Down

Mulling Over Cranberries

Ingredients

1 1/2 oz Vodka

4 oz Ginger Beer

1 oz Cranberry Juice

4-5 Fresh Cranberries

1/6 oz Lime Juice

1. In a glass or copper mug, muddle your cranberries and add ice

2. Combine vodka, ginger beer, and lime juice, leaving 1 inch of room

3. Top with cranberry juice for a cascade effect

4. Stir and enjoy.

Toddy with a Body

Ingredients

4 oz Apple Juice or Cider

2 oz Rum or Spiced Rum

1/6 oz Lemon Juice

1 tsp honey

1-2 Cinnamon Sticks

2-4 Star Anise

Caramel Drizzle

1. Add apple juice/cider, lemon juice, honey, cinnamon, and star anise into a small saucepan

2. Over medium heat, gradually bring to a boil

3. Reduce heat and let simmer for 4-5 minutes, stirring occasionally

4. In a glass, drizzle caramel along the cup’s interior and add rum

5. Remove spices from the apple mixture

6. Pour apple mixture over bourbon, stir, and enjoy

The Lust Frontier

Red Flag Bingo (i.e. Meet My Exes)

| By: MEGAN MEHL |

If you’ve done any dating in the last several years, you may have been faced with catfishes, ghosts, F-boys, and any number of other unsavory characters. We’ve developed a whole new vocabulary to describe the unusual dating phenomena we now face as singles. While it may feel like a relief when you finally meet someone you’d actually go on more than one date with, beware of getting in too deep with someone who isn’t the right fit or isn’t ready for a relationship. When dating is tough and you’re tired of being single, it’s tempting to settle or to put your blinders on and get swept up in the excitement of meeting someone new.

Ultimately, time wasted with the wrong person is time that could have been spent looking for the right person. If your boo exhibits two or more of these traits, you may want to consider giving them the boot.

On a first date (or any time), they talk incessantly about themselves and don’t ask about you.

They are non-committal with plans, unwilling to meet on weekends, or cancel at the last minute, which means you’re the backup plan. They aren’t making you a priority and would rather spend time doing something (or someone) else.

They only reach out late at night or when they’re drinking. Translation: They aren’t interested in anything serious.

They move way too fast in a way that may initially be flattering but also makes you question how they could like you so much so early into the relationship. This behavior is known as “love bombing” and could

involve buying gifts, planning trips, or telling you how special you are to them even though the appropriate level of emotional intimacy hasn’t had time to develop.

They don’t respect your clearly communicated boundaries. This could be in terms of your communication expectations, the amount of time you spend together, or sexual boundaries.

You don’t feel that you can be yourself around them. Maybe they make comments that make you feel like you’re not good enough or you simply don’t feel comfortable enough to let your guard down. Either way, it’s a sign that this isn’t your person.

They try to sleep with you without using or discussing protection. This is my #1 ick and is a very low bar to gauge their basic level of respect for you.

They don’t have the same relationship goals as you. If they tell you or show you with their actions that they don’t want a relationship, BELIEVE THEM. Let’s be real, “not wanting a relationship” usually just means that they don’t want a relationship with YOU. Don’t waste your time.

They criticize you indirectly (your friends, your job, your home, your clothes, your family). This is a huge red flag, usually followed later on with criticizing you directly. RUN.

You don’t trust them. If you just have a weird feeling that something is off, trust yourself.

They are incapable or unwilling to handle conflict. Conflict is a natural part of any kind of relationship. If they have a tendency to explode, shut down, or say hurtful things they don’t mean, it will be very

challenging to have a long term relationship with this person.

Likewise, if they are not able to express their emotions, it may indicate emotional immaturity. Can they communicate when their feelings are hurt? Do they tell you how they feel about you? Do they notice when they are frustrated by something external (or hangry) or do they unfairly take it out on you? It’s hard to build emotional closeness with someone who is cut off from their emotions. If they can’t accept their own feelings, they definitely won’t be able to accept yours.

They call their exes “crazy” or seem very negative or emotionally charged about past relationships. We’ve all had tough dating situations but if they speak that way about people they chose for themselves, do you really want to sign up to be their next “crazy” ex? It also indicates that they may not have dealt with the emotions around past

relationships and may not be ready to date someone new.

They haven’t learned anything from past relationships. Again, if they see the whole relationship in a negative light and haven’t evolved and grown from their experiences, this says a lot more about them than their ex. Well-adjusted adults accept accountability and use life experiences to learn and grow.

They don’t seem to have friends. If they can’t form or maintain healthy adult friendships, it might mean that they don’t have the capacity to prioritize those, that they lack boundaries or social skills, or that they’re just plain unlikeable. Having friendships outside of your relationship is also an important outlet for both people. If they don’t have friends, they probably won’t be thrilled about you spending time with yours.

They don’t seem to have hobbies or interests outside of work. You deserve someone with a full and fulfilling life. It’s not a good sign if you quickly become the center of their world.

They are extremely negative, speak poorly of others, or have a victim mentality. If they’re consistently unhappy and unable to take steps to resolve their issues, wish them the best and be on your merry way. Negativity only breeds more negativity and that’s not something you want to be committed to.

They haven’t had a serious or long-term relationship. This is Peter Pan syndrome at its finest, so watch for commitment or vulnerability issues.

They don’t have a vision for their life or goals of their own. Planning isn’t the sexiest thing, but ambiguity on things like kids, career trajectories, and location makes it hard to see

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if your relationship has future potential. If they simply don’t want to talk with you about the future, it’s because they don’t see you in it.

They aren’t in therapy or aren’t open to therapy. Everyone should be in therapy and you can’t change my mind.

They are controlling about how you dress, speak, act, or who you spend time with. Enough said.

You have different ideas of what your individual roles should be in your partnership. Do they expect you to give up the career that you love? Do they expect you to provide for them? Do they believe in traditional gender roles when you think it should be an equal partnership? These preferences often go undiscussed at the beginning of a relationship, but think about it – you’d never start a relationship with a business partner without being clear on each person’s roles,

so why should this be any different?

They don’t aspire to be a better version of themself. In other words, they believe they are already perfect and don’t need to change… which is the biggest red flag of all. A successful relationship requires that both people learn how to be better partners to one another over time. It’s very difficult to be in a relationship with someone who is stagnant – you will undoubtedly outgrow them sooner or later.

To be clear, I’m not trying to be critical, and I do realize that relationships are complex and nuanced. This is meant as a general guide based on my past experiences and the things I hear on a daily basis as a professional matchmaker. As always, my point is this -- you are absolutely deserving of a healthy and loving relationship with someone encouraging and supportive who brings out the best version of you. Please don’t settle for anything less.

Lovers of local music celebrated the sounds of the city

at The Silo Bar for the release of the August music issue with Cigarettes After Sex on the cover. Members of El Paso’s rock, hip hop, indie scene met, mingled, and enjoyed an evening of music and making memories.

| Photos by: SERGIO OLIVAS |