THECITY Magazine El Paso • June 2014

the

Men’s issue

A Heartfelt PITCH

ESTEBAN LOAIZA’S Baseball camps for Kids

THE MEN OF

TROPICANA HOMES TEXAS BUILDER OF THE YEAR 2013

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June, 2014

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FASHION · HEALTH · TRAVEL June, 2014

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

BUSINESS MANAGER Josh Sanchez josh@thecitymagazineelp.com

EDITOR COVER: The Men of Tropicana Homes PHOTOGRAPHY BY: Dav Anmed

COVER STORY BY: Michael C. Graham

Kim North kim@thecitymagazineelp.com

EDITORIAL ASSISTANT/STAFF WRITER Meagan Kinley

DISTRIBUTION MANAGER/ EVENT COORDINATOR Chaz Wilson

EDITORIAL DESIGN Ernie Sanchez Creative

WEB PRODUCER/JUNIOR DESIGNER Ryan Heape ryan@thecitymagazineelp.com

Letter to the Editor Dear Ms. Mozelle,

ADMINISTRATIVE ASSISTANT Natalie Rosales natalie@thecitymagazineelp.com

I trust this will find you in good health.

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

I wish you continued success.

Congratulations!

Sincerely, Benilde “Bennie” Molina, Assistant to the Vice President of Sales BBB Paso del Norte 550 E. Paisano Dr. El Paso, TX 79901

SALES MANAGER Joseph D. Dias joe@thecitymagazineelp.com

ADVERTISING EXECUTIVES Jacqueline Ramsey - Senior Advertising Executive jackie@thecitymagazineelp.com Chaz Wilson chaz@thecitymagazineelp.com Sharon Passantino sharon@thecitymagazineelp.com Jessy Castañeda jessy@thecitymagazineelp.com

EDITORIAL CONTRIBUTORS Subscription form can be found on page 105.

“The City ” El Paso Magazine welcomes your comments. Please send letters to “Letters to the Editors” 5925 Silver Springs Dr., Suite A El Paso, Texas 79912, or email the editors.

Phone number: (915) 500-5730. Fax: (915) 500-5732.

Letters addressed to The City El Paso Magazine become the property of the magazine, and it owns all rights to their use. Letters may be edited for space.

All rights to the contents of this magazine are owned in full by the magazine and may not be reproduced in whole or in part without written permission from the Editors in Chief. Views expressed herein are those of the authors and advertisers and do not necessarily reflect the opinion of the ownership or management of the magazine.

All rights reserved.

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Felipa Solis, Jannet Bustillos, Grace Neuhaus, Michelle Cromer, Patrick Martínez, Meagan Kinley, Josh Sanchez, Michael Graham, Vic Poulos, Brittany Sawrey, Joann Wardy, Robin Niland, Natalie Rosales, Erika Lopez, Reed Loney, Candace Vasquez, JoLene Keipp, Andrés Rodríguez, Jose Soto, Valentin Sandoval, Laura Werthmann, Austin Savage, Marina Monsisvais, Matthew Wilkson, Lauren Macias-Cervantes.

PHOTOGRAPHY Dav Anmed, Robert Corral, Luis Miranda, Jr., Tommie Morelos, Charlotte McGee, Lui Cardenas

INTERN Tommie Morelos

CREATIVE SUPPORT Theresa Guerra, Ibrahim Sánchez

June, 2014

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Editor–in–Chief

June, 2014

A man’s manners are a mirror in which he shows his portrait and good manners will open doors that the best education cannot.

Author Unknown

W

elcome to the yearly edition that is

sending mixed signals to

dedicated solely to men. As I sat down to

men that we don’t expect

write this, I couldn’t get out of my mind

that “door-respect.” Despite

a recent advertising meeting with a young man that

the generational differences,

quickly turned into a counseling session regarding his

when in question remember

recent break up. With an earnest voice, he asked me

that

what impresses a woman about a man. Wow. As we

always in style. We love the

spoke, I had a male/female “role” epiphany. Let me put

act of chivalry. It’s a sweet

my tongue firmly in my cheek and at the risk of being

gesture that any guy can

ridiculed, (I’m sure I’ll hear from both genders once

make. The “door respect”

this is printed), remember that I’m not here to answer

doesn’t show that we’re so

all those questions, but I think I can at least help. I’m

weak we can’t maneuver such a basic action as opening

speaking in the spirit of openness, and honesty.

a door, but shows that you men can be our mini-Prince

good

manners

are

Charming, and come on guys, it‘s proper; door holding Traditionally speaking, professional ambition is expected

and standing for a woman to sit has its place in modern

of men -- but in the midst of the continued feminist

society -- it’s a tradition worth preserving.

movement, aggressive and hard-charging women seem to violate unwritten rules. Female accomplishments

At the end of the day we love pleasing you and we love

come at a cost; both to men and women, one of those

you taking care of us, even if it’s only giving us your seat

costs is the misunderstanding of the “role” we want

so we can rest our “high-heeled” feet, or protecting us

our man to play in our life. We women being CEOs,

from a slamming door, it shows a respect that we ladies

bosses, or construction workers have confused our

hunger for. We do not see good manners as a sexist

counterparts as to their “male role.” Generations back,

situation; we simply see it as good manners. If your lady

the man was the breadwinner, he made the largest

arrives at the door, use your “gentlemen language,” put

salary, and his strengths were his ability to take care

your best foot forward … open the door, it shows us

of his family, especially his woman. We’re in a gender-

your charm. Trust me, your rewards will be worth it!

neutral environment compared to previous generations, but it seems as though we women need to be conscious

Speaking of manners, the men of the Bowling family,

of the mixed signals we send.

led by Robert Bowling III proudly tell the story of the three-generation construction business who won the

So, to the answer of what makes a woman impressed

coveted award of Texas Builder of the Year 2013. These

with a man, gentlemen, here we go. I would have

four businessmen were the epitome of manners as they

to say the first impression is a smartly dressed man,

bragged about their family and the legacy they will pass

good hygiene, and above all good manners. Let’s talk

on to their own children.

about manners. Is the tradition of holding a door for a woman or giving up your seat when a woman enters

Enjoy the Men’s Issue!

the room a practice that is viewed as something of the past? I would say absolutely not! As a culturally diverse society, I believe women find a man with good manners sexy, no matter who brings home the bacon. It’s the way he smells, the way he smiles, and one of the first impressions is his walk to the car door. That’s right, I’m a door girl. Shame on us for opening our own doors and www.thecitymagazineelp.com

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June, 2014

contents

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profiles

men in business By: THE CITY

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By: MICHAEL C. GRAHAM

By: AUSTIN SAVAGE

The City Features

The City

The Tropicana Homes Story Building a Solid Foundation

Russ Vandenburg A Change From the Heart

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44 38 The City

The Full Spectrum

Alamo Auto Supply A Family Tradition for Over 40 Years

A Heart-Felt Pitch Estaban Loaiza’s Baseball Camps

By: ERIKA LOPEZ

By: AUSTIN SAVAGE

By: AUSTIN SAVAGE

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Where Are They Now?

The City

KTSM’s Gary Sotir By: LAUREN MACIAS-CERVANTES

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94

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Artist Spotlight

El Paso’s Nolan Richardson Honored at the Naismith Memorial Basketball Hall of Fame

Native El Pasoan Paints a Good Name For Our City

BY: MEAGAN KINLEY

100 Parenting

By: JOSE SOTO

Thanks, Dad!

102

By: ROBIN NILAND

Building Better Fathers

To Dad, With Love Finding the Perfect Father’s Day Gift

Dads Are Important Too, So Let Yours Know

By: ANDRÉS RODRÍGUEZ

By: JOLENE KEIPP

By: JOANN WARDY

The City

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110

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The City

Food

The Balancing Act of Work Life

Hidden Gems

Hamburger Inn

Sauce It Up With Scrumptious Summer BBQ

By: AUSTIN SAVAGE

By: VALENTIN SANDOVAL

By: MEAGAN KINLEY

The City

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The City

The City

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Etiquette

The City

A Cold One, A Brewski Highlighting Three Local Brew Spots By: REED LONEY

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June, 2014

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June, 2014

128 The City

Real Men Do Yoga By: MEAGAN KINLEY

124 The City 120

Meatless Monday The Newest Food Movement

Wine

How to Become an Expert Wine Taster By: VIC POULOS

Fitness

By: MARINA MONSISVAIS

130

Pick Yourself Up Why Bodyweight Exercises are Important

132

By: PATRICK L. MARTINEZ

The City

IN

Camo Cream A Product with Purpose

The City

By: BRITTANY SAWREY

By: MATTHEW WILKSON

LO OK MODERN

His Prerogative

THE

136

MAN

OUT

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By: NATALIE ROSALES

146

148 Zoo

144 Spirituality

Summer with the Mystics By: MICHELLE CROMER

150

Astrology

The Sixth Sense

A Celebration of Elephants

The City

By: GRACE THE PSYCHIC LADY

By: BRITTANY SAWREY

By: MEAGAN KINLEY

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156

Sports

Coach Mika Laaksonen

A Tangled Web The Amazing Spider Man 2

By: MEAGAN KINLEY

By: FELIPA SOLIS

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134

Movies

Man’s Best Friend

159

Medical

Top Plastic Surgery Procedures For Men By: SOUTHWEST PLASTIC SURGERY

160 Investment

Bitcoin: Fad or the Future?

By: HENRY GALLARDO

www.thecitymagazineelp.com

June, 2014

The Contributors

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June, 2014

1) Michael C. Graham 2) GRACE The Psychic Lady 3) FELIPA SOLIS 4) Meagan Kinley 5) MICHELLE CROMER 6) DAV ANMED 7) Victor Poulos 8) JANNET BUSTILLOS 9) Josh Sanchez 10) PATRICK L. MARTINEZ 11) Robert Corral 12) AUSTin savage 13) Candace Vasquez 14) Andrés Rodríguez www.thecitymagazineelp.com

June, 2014

El Paso

Far East Store New Eastside Store Westside Store North East Store Ranch Market Clearance Ctr Zaragoza 9813 Dyer St. 855-9500 595-5954 585-1555 751-5555

Las Cruces

855-9500

1265 El Paseo Rd.

647-2085

307-7396

315 S. Telshor Blvd.

532-1144

the-mattressstore.com www.thecitymagazineelp.com

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June, 2014

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For full contributor bios go to www.thecitymagazineelp.com

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15) Erika Lopez 16) Marina Monsisvais 17) Jose Soto 18) jolene keipp 19) Valentin sandoval 14

20) Brittany Sawrey 21) Robin Niland 22) LUIS MIRANda, jr.

23) Joann Wardy 24) Tommie Morelos

25) Reed Loney 26) Natalie Rosales 27) Mathew Wilkson 28) Laura Werthmann 29) Lauren Macias-Cervantes www.thecitymagazineelp.com

June, 2014

June, 2014

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MD, DMD

MD, DDS

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Dr. Alfredo

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DDS, MS

DDS

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Obstructive Sleep Apnea

EAST 10175 Gateway West Suite 304 El Paso TX 79925 915-504-6880 Fax: 915-599-8579

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June, 2014

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THE NEW MINI. THE NEW ORIGINAL.

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www.thecitymagazineelp.com 19 and handling charge of $795 and excludes license, registration, taxes, options and labor to install. Certain features maybe optional. Actual price determined by your authorized MINI dealer. Visit your authorized MINI dealer for important details. © 2014 MINI USA, a division of BMW of North America, LLC. The MINI name, model names and logo are registered trademarks.

June, 2014

Look Well nanoblur Instant correction of the appearance of skin aging. HD ready skin in seconds.

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A concentrated multi-peptide facial line fighter that works 4x better than $500+ serums.

Feel Well Meningitis shots are now available at all Walgreens, and your insurance may be eligible! Ask your pharmacist for details.

Shingles can last weeks or even years. But a vaccination takes only a few moments and greatly reduces your risk. Now available at Walgreens for those ages 50-59 with a prescription and ages 60 and up without a prescription.

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June, 2014

alamogordo 955 white sands blvd (575) 434.4116

10850 N LOOP DR (915) 860.1315

el paso

10600 MONTANA AVE (915) 591.4655

2112 trawood (915) 595-2788

8889 gateway west (915) 599.8571

2800 n mesa st (915) 533.6883

1831 N LEE TREVINO DR (915) 594.1129

1432 ANTONIO ST (915) 886.2413

2879 MONTANA AVE (915) 566.4464

10090 RUSHING RD (915) 755.9510

HORIZON CITY

5401 MONTANA AVE (915) 779.8825

800 N ZARAGOZA RD (915) 860.1670

1100 GERONIMO DR (915) 778.9301

2950 GEORGE DIETER DR (915) 856.7040

5900 N MESA ST (915) 584.1153

1329 GEORGE DIETER DR (915) 594.3838

302 s oregon st (915) 532.4344

10780 KENWORTHY ST (915) 821.2698

1210 WEDGEWOOD DR (915) 591.9496

1607 N ZARAGOZA RD (915) 856.0071

8050 N MESA ST (915) 585.0491

11685 MONTWOOD DR (915) 855.7704

890 N RESLER DR (915) 584.1359

12201 MONTWOOD DR (915) 856.0278

8045 N LOOP DR (915) 592.5849

12390 EDGEMERE BLVD (915) 849.6849

Find your copy of www.thecitymagazineelp.com

SOCORRO

9428 DYER ST (915) 751.4415

100 N AMERICAS AVE (915) 790.0404 ANTHONY

14300 HORIZON BLVD (915) 852.1561 LAS CRUCES 3490 northrise dr (575) 382.9100 3100 n main st (575) 525.0298 1256 EL PASEO RD (575) 525.8713 2300 e lohman ave (575) 647.2506 3990 e lohman ave (575) 522.1457 2700 w picacho ave (575) 523.0833

at a Walgreens near you 21

June, 2014

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June, 2014

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June, 2014

THE TROPICANA

Building upon Foundations

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June, 2014

HOMES STORY Laid Generations Before

F

| By: MICHAEL C. GRAHAM, J.D. photography by: DAV ANMED |

or anyone that keeps abreast of current events, or follows economic and political conditions of the day, he or she should be familiar with one constant fact about the economy and society of our great nation: we are a country dominated by small and family owned businesses. To give you an idea of

just how important these companies and families are, consider the following facts: According to a recent study

by Bloomberg, family owned companies account for just over half of the country’s total economic output, 60% of the total employment, and 78% of all new job creation.

In short, our country keeps on running because we are blessed with a great many entrepreneurs, still chasing the American Dream of owning their own business.

El Paso is home to a company that is a three-generation example of that idea and belief, and of how significant of an impact on a community a family and an enterprise can have. The Bowling family has been building homes for El Pasoans, by El Pasoans for over 60 years, and keeps finding ways to do it a little better each year.

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June, 2014

The tropicana homes story

What started as a simple and straightforward

sisters, to form Tri-State Homes, the entity

residential construction company, Tropicana

that would eventually change its name to

Homes is now part of a multi-faceted

Tropicana Homes. Beginning in the 1970s,

construction,

management

they continued to build on the foundation

triad of affiliated companies, all continuing

started by NB Construction, and became

the straightforward goal of providing quality

one of only a handful of builders focusing on

homes to our community, a goal started by

northeast El Paso. Fort Bliss was undergoing

Robert L. Bowling, Jr. in 1950. As I discovered

the tail end of its first stage of significant

when I sat down with two of the current

expansion, and as you might expect, meant

leaders of the companies, the Bowling family

a significant amount of homebuilding for

epitomizes the famous quote by Aristotle:

active duty and recently retired soldiers.

“We are what we repeatedly do. Excellence,

As Robert L. (Bobby) Bowling, IV, put it:

then, is not an act, but a habit.”

“Some years it was literally nothing but VA

lending

and

(Veteran’s Administration backed) buyers.”

Upon returning from service in World War II,

Most likely unbeknownst to any of them at

and lured to El Paso for the dry climate, Robert

the time, these years helped Tropicana build

L. Bowling, Jr. entered the home building

on its quality reputation, and helped build

business starting Nugent Bowling (NB)

them a solid and loyal customer base. This

Construction. At this time in El Paso’s history,

would be of particular importance as the

El Paso was enjoying a sustained period of

1970s wore on and brought two changing

economic growth that was also being seen

economic conditions: stagflation of the late

in most other parts of the country. Industrial

1970s and early 1980s, and the Savings and

and military infrastructure spending brought

Loan scandal of the mid 1980s, which would

jobs, and more importantly people, to the

eventually force the collapse of 1/3 of the

Sun City in significant numbers. Quietly, and

savings and loan lending institutions in the

without much fanfare, many of those families

United States at the time. To put it bluntly,

bought a home built by Mr. Bowling. Nugent

times got bad, very quickly.

Bowling Construction found a niche building affordable, quality homes in northeast El

The construction industry is directly linked

Paso, and was part of the emerging home

to the health of the overall economy, and

building industry that was forming around the

in particular the lending and credit industry,

growing city. Like many other cities, El Paso

as virtually every homebuyer also obtains a

began to enact and enforce zoning codes,

mortgage loan. As the ability to obtain credit

and today’s residential and commercial

dwindles, or the number of people that can

boundaries were established. The company

afford to obtain loans dwindles, so does the

built a reputation of delivering a quality

client base of the home building industry.

product, and of treating both their clients and

Tropicana Homes was no exception, and

their construction partners fairly. They slowly

entered into a period that was challenging,

increased their volume each year, and quietly

to say the least. However, as both Bobby and

hummed along for roughly 20 years.

his brother Greg reiterated to me, “Tropicana built an amazing reputation during this time,

At some point in the early to mid-1970s,

because our dad somehow made it work

however, Robert L. Bowling, Jr. decided to

and never missed an obligation.” While

begin his transition out of the business, and

other builders were succumbing to the ever-

in stepped the second generation, Robert L.

worsening economic conditions, Tropicana

Bowling III. After winding up NB Construction,

kept on moving forward. Eventually, Robert

Robert Bowling III partnered with two new

III took over from the other partners, and

individuals, Ray Snyder and Keith Alexander,

continued on with Tropicana on his own,

who had each married two of Robert III’s

primarily retaining the fixed assets. Most

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Article Title

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June, 2014

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June, 2014

THERE IS NOTHING MORE EXCITING IN OUR BUSINESS THAN GIVING A FAMILY THE KEYS TO THEIR FIRST HOUSE.

importantly, he retained the lots that Tropicana owned which allowed him to keep moving forward. And the longer he remained in business, the stronger Tropicana’s reputation and client base became, as each of his three sons discovered when they eventually joined the company.

As you might imagine, running a business in the building industry during this period was more than a bit challenging, and as the 1980s carried on, it became clear that Robert III was looking to other areas of the construction industry, including development. Bobby was working in various areas of the business, including landscaping, during the summers when he was home from U.T. Austin, and almost as soon as he returned home after college, Bobby took over much of the responsibilities of running the overall enterprise.

“My dad was an excellent teacher, and partner, because he would allow me to actually learn by doing.” Bobby took over and began to grow the company slowly in the early 1990s, allowing his dad the time to slowly branch out and begin land development, which was where his passion was, and still is today. www.thecitymagazineelp.com

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June, 2014 As each of the brothers returned home from college (Randy from SMU in Dallas and Greg from Texas State in San Marcos) and married and had families of their own, they quickly realized that growth would be required to support a much larger family base. They utilized their solid reputation that had been established by the previous generations, put in some tremendous work and effort, and began to branch out. Patriot Mortgage Company was founded in 1998, and has since grown to be the second largest originator of new-home loans in the El Paso area, and is one of only a few FHA endorsed lenders in the El Paso area.

The FHA endorsement means that Patriot Mortgage is empowered to underwrite and approve FHA loans locally and directly. In 1999, Bobby began the process of entering into the multi-family tax-credit construction world. Although the process was incredibly www.theitaliankitchenelpaso.com

lengthy, the company persevered, and in 2001 the newly formed Tropicana Building Corporation was awarded its first tax-credit project. Since that time, they have now been awarded 25 competitive tax credit projects, helping provide efficient and affordable multi-family housing in the community. The company also does standard “retail” multifamily projects, and later created Tropicana Properties, the management company that has almost 2200 units under management, with hundreds more under contract.

Throughout this period, the family and Tropicana have maintained a steady presence in industry advocacy groups, and in the legislative process within their industry.

Bobby has served as the Texas Association of Builders President and has also been active in the National Association working on multifamily issues. Tropicana has been recognized as the “Builder of the Year” by the El Paso Association of Builders four times; has been named “Texas Developer of the Year,” and most recently “Texas Builder of the Year for 2013” at the state level. Our readers have

Airway Blvd. & Montana 915-778-1444 • GarciaCarsElPaso.com 30

also named them as the Best Builder in our “Best of the City” awards in 2012 and 2013, www.thecitymagazineelp.com

June, 2014 and by the Better Business Bureau as Best Builder in 2013.

Today, the entities that comprise the Tropicana family all have their own area of expertise, and each of the three brothers heads a particular area of business. Bobby heads up the multi-family area of the build process; Greg works with the lending institutions as well as focusing on the single family piece of the puzzle from an oversight standpoint, and Randy focuses on the sales side of things, managing that staff and also adding to the oversight piece.

Patriot Mortgage continues to grow, the Property Management company is adding units almost daily, and perhaps most importantly, the success and diversification allows their dad to continue to focus on his passion for development.

However, regardless of the business area, all of them still adhere to the principles and ethics that both their father and grandfather established decades ago. They continue to focus on ensuring that their clients, as well as their business partners, are treated ethically and fairly, which has translated into continued growth, as well as the opportunity to build relationships with their clients. “We have been able to begin moving our families from the tax-credit or retail multi-family units, into their first home. The relationship we have with them as a lender assists in this process as well. And there is nothing more exciting in our business than giving a family the keys to their first house.�

Bobby, Randy and Greg, as well as their father Robert III, have epitomized and demonstrated living by Aristotle’s quote for decades, and if their success is any indicator they will find their combined enterprise growing and their laurels continuing to come their way.

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June, 2014

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June, 2014

A Change From the Heart

Russ Vand andenburg TVO North America | By: AUSTIN SAVAGE photography by: TOMMIE MORELOS |

R

ussell Vandenburg is a believer.

Being unfamiliar with the sensation of the

Now,

blind,

homerun I failed to track the flight of the ball.

because no man without vision can

It wasn’t until a bit later when I heard some

accomplish what he has no matter

teammates yell out that I understood what

how unshakable their faith, if they don’t have

had occurred. The ball had traveled over the

a sense of sight. No, Russell Vandenberg has

left field fence and broken the windshield of

belief and a vision but they are ultimately tied

Russ Vandenburg’s car. Guilt and far soared

to the one truest fact he seems to know:

over me and I was unsure as to how to

if you build a better process then great

react, but Mr. Vandenburg was unconcerned

production will follow.

with the damage. He was excited for the

his

belief

is

not

moment and the brief accomplishment that

www.thecitymagazineelp.com

I was not much of a power hitter in my high

I had just achieved. This is the mindset of

school baseball days, but on one windy

Russell Vandenburg. He was willing to

afternoon when the conditions were just

celebrate the success, even at the cost of

right I was able to turn on a pitch and hit

his windshield, because the effort that had

it screaming down the left field foul line.

been invested had paid off.

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Article Title

June, 2014

“My brother Wayne and I started our Real Estate

Investment,

management

and

development company in 1983 by purchasing the Mesa Village Apartments.”

This simple statement is how Vandenburg chooses to describe the origins of TVO North America. This El Paso based familyowned entity is a multi-platform business that has expanded to the extent that it now has global connection. Despite it’s current vast and impressive grasp it was once a simple start up company that expanded from surprising origins. The life leading up to the formation seems simple and unrelated enough; “I came to El Paso in 1966 from Chicago, Illinois to go to UTEP (then known as Texas Western) and played football. After graduating in 1970 I taught and coached at Burges High school.” There is no mention of business school or a background in real estate. There was seemingly no connection between his past life and the one he boldly embarked on in 1983. Russell Vandenberg was an educator and coach. His brother Wayne has a similar background consisting of athletics, teaching and coaching, and somehow it was these histories and the demands of these previous endeavors that paved the path for their current success.

As explained by the company’s website, “The Vandenburgs’ desire to integrate their coaching and teaching experience toward developing a team to produce at peak levels in the real estate management industry proved to be successful.” Successful may be an understatement for an operation that expanded from one apartment complex to a major corporation that now owns, develops, and

manages

hundreds

of

properties

including approximately 50,000 multi-family residential units.

Years after I had broken his windshield with a high school homerun I encountered Mr. Vandenburg once more as I was working my way through college. After a brief session of catching up I distinctly remember him saying 34

www.thecitymagazineelp.com

Article Title

June, 2014 to me, “The important thing is to move on from our mistakes to different ones. You’re only in trouble if you keep making the same mistake repeatedly.” The manner in which he delivered this wisdom to me was so sure and simple, that it was undoubtedly something that he knew. It was a part of the process that he had employed to become so successful himself. This was a man, who had faith in a functioning process and he was willing to try to help me better my own.

Of course, acknowledgment of the past is an essential step when one values process and it is a step that Russell Vandenburg freely

discusses,

“Besides

experiencing

the same start up issues most people have when they start their own business, the real estate business was a new endeavor for both my brother and I. I learned the property management business by the seat of my pants, learning to lease apartments, paint units and fix broken toilets.” The effort and learning that applied to those early struggles are still invaluable even as the application has moved away from clogged toilet pipes in a local complex to offering services for investment partnerships and unaffiliated third party clients in the business of property, facility, project, construction, and energy management. The challenges may have changed and seemed more daunting but they are ones that Russ Vandenburg seems confident he will overcome, “Today our challenges include finding the right deals and matching those deals to the right set of partners. Today there is a tremendous amount of capital pursuing deals and one must be careful not to overpay for an asset.”

It is with this caution in mind and a lifetime of success behind him that Vandenburg and TVO will continue pushing onward into the future, “TVO will continue to stay focused on acquiring multi-family apartment communities throughout the country and especially where we have a current foot print. We will continue to buy office buildings in Dallas and will look for additional hotels to either build or purchase in high demand areas.” www.thecitymagazineelp.com

35

Article Title

June, 2014

So in a journey that has taken him across the country and placed him to the desert southwest, where he has moved from athletic

accomplishments

to

academic

success only to become a driving force in the high risk world of real estate, Russell Vandenburg’s success can be found in his process-oriented manner of thinking and the secret behind his process is something he is willing to share now much like he was so many years ago on a high school baseball diamond, “There are no secrets to success other than hard work, remain focused and surround yourself with great people who have the same vision as you do.�

36

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June, 2014

| By: ERIKA LOPEZ photos courtesy of: SPECTRUM TECHNOLOGIES |

I

t was the strong ambition and

Technologies, it was a company known

“I was just finishing high school and I had

irrefutable passion of Marcelo Plesant

as International Book & Stationery (later

just begun my career at UTEP and Kyle, he

that shaped the vision of Spectrum

becoming Norton Brothers Office Supply),

was getting ready to graduate from Texas

Technologies,

as

which was owned by Fred W. Norton. Norton

Tech University, so when my dad bought

A.B. Dick Products. It is through his legacy,

initiated the history of the now, multi-million

the company he asked both of us to join,”

beloved

successors,

dollar company, by signing an agreement to

recalled Plesant.

President, Kyle Elliot and Executive Vice

become the local, authorized distributor for

President, Mitch Plesant that his business

the A.B. Dick mimeograph. But, in June of

But, owning and operating a business did not

continues to strive for success.

1958, Egar B. Dodds, Norton’s son-in-law

come without challenges. One of the biggest

spirit,

and

formerly driven

known

departed from Norton Brothers Office Supply

challenges Marcelo Plesant faced was lack

Marcelo Plesant was born in Chihuahua City,

and began doing business as A.B. Dick

of experience. Although, he excelled in sales

but came to the United States in 1955 at

Productions of El Paso where Plesant found

and the company’s vast majority of revenue

the age of 15. After a few years of studying,

himself interviewing for an entry-level sales

depended on him, he was not trained to run a

he enlisted in the U.S. Air Force, where he

position. During the interview, Dodds asked

company. “It’s like the saying, be careful what

proudly served the country for six years.

Plesant where he saw himself in 20 years

you wish for because you might get it. Well,

During his station of four years in Tacoma,

and without hesitation, Plesant answered,

I got it and it wasn’t all that easy at first. It

Washington, he met his wife, Joan. It was

“Sitting right where you are, sir.”

was very different going from a salesman, to a sales manager to the owner of a company,”

after their four-year stay in Washington that Plesant set out to the Southwest for warmer

In April of 1986, twenty-one years later,

stated

weather and having a love for El Paso, he laid

Plesant was doing just that, spearheading

interview. Despite the challenges that came

his roots in the Sun City. Where he eventually

the company as president and owner and

with owning a business, both Mitch Plesant

began working for Edgar Dodds, owner of

with a firm traction in the printing and graphic

and Kyle Elliot found that entrepreneurship

A.B. Dick Productions of El Paso.

arts equipment market, Plesant focused on

was not only instilled at a young age, but

becoming the premier office machine dealer

was also a natural calling. Elliot, a graduate

Before the business evolved into A.B. Dick

in the region, but not without the help of his

of Rawls College of Business at Texas Tech

Productions of El Paso and later to Spectrum

son, Mitch Plesant and son-in-law Kyle Elliot.

University joined Plesant within weeks of

38

Marcelo

Plesant

in

a

previous

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June, 2014

www.thecitymagazineelp.com

39

June, 2014

purchasing the business, which led him to

distribution rights for the industry’s premier

in the office machine, office equipment area.’

travel to Chicago for extensive sales and

high-speed digital duplicators from Riso,

We took on other manufacturers, originally

product training. Plesant knew early on that

Inc.

reached

Minolta and Konica machine. We also bought

owning a business with his father was an

agreements with Minolta to represent their

a few companies and then took on Canon

aspiration waiting to be fulfilled, “Early on I

copier and facsimile products along with

– the world’s number one manufacturer of

knew I wanted to own a business because

Konica’s revolutionary digital printer/copier.

black and white and color copiers, fax, and

my dad wanted to buy this business, I would

The change in product offerings inspired a

digital imaging products,” said Elliot.

see him in the sales aspect and I would see

new identity for the company, which soon

how good he was at it. It was never really

evolved into Spectrum Imaging Systems.

The changes of Spectrum Imaging and the

about the dollar aspect, it was always about

“In our careers of a little over 25 years, we

growth that came with it resulted in finding

taking care of people. My dad loved people

began as a printing equipment - graphic artist

a new home for the business. In the fall of

and he was going to own that company and I

supplier to quick print type shops. The world

1997, Spectrum Imaging moved their sales

wanted to own that with him. I wanted to do

had a small footprint in analog copier lives;

team, administrative and executive offices

what he did. He was an impact on me doing

we sold copiers, but it wasn’t a large part

to a new, modern “Office of the Future”

whatever it is that he did.”

of our business and we only sold A.B. Dick

showroom conveniently located in the heart

Shortly

after,

they

also

Company products. We were an exclusive

of El Paso. While their Support Division

In, 1994, the powerhouse trio implemented

distributor for A.B. Dick Company in El Paso

and

an expansion strategy that led to a series

and the Southern New Mexico area. Since

expanded, they remained in the existing

of

agreements,

then, under Marcelo Plesant’s guidance, he

location near downtown El Paso. In 1999,

which included the acquisition of exclusive

set forth and said ‘we’re going to be strong

Spectrum continued to evolve opening a

40

new

dealer

marketing

Customer

Care

Center

operations

www.thecitymagazineelp.com

the full spectrum

June, 2014

branch operation in Las Cruces, New Mexico

could describe him in one word it would

to service clients in Southern and Western

have to righteous. The legacy he left behind

New Mexico. With the turn of the century

is a platform for success in what Kyle and I

also came two new business development

have to build on today,” said Mitch Plesant.

initiatives created to expand service offerings

Part of the legacy that Marcelo Plesant left

to the company’s client base, which included

behind was the philosophy, ‘Do what you

a Document Outsourcing Solutions division

said you were going to do.’ “Our philosophy

that offers printing and digital file conversion

as a company is doing the right thing, making

services. In 2004, Spectrum developed

the right choice. Sometimes those choices

Spectrum Technology Group, to provide

in the short-term can be a bit painful. We

computer

installation,

sell services that can cost an upward of a

integration and remote monitoring, as well as

hundred thousand dollars, but sometimes

management services.

you have to make the right decisions, even

network

design,

if it costs you in the short-term. In the longWhen asked what Spectrum Technologies

term you gain relationships and people know

credits their success to, the answer is

they can rely on you and trust you. This was

synonymous, integrity. “My dad’s level of

something engrained in both Mitch and I very

integrity is what made him great. Once he

early on, you do whatever it takes and you’ll

bought the company, he took that same

have a customer for life and that’s what we

level of integrity that he always treated

want,” said Elliot.

his clients with as a sales person and took it into the business world and treated his

But, integrity was not the only thing Marcelo

employees the same way. He left a legacy.

Plesant was known for. “Loyalty pays off.

The people who worked for him loved him,

He was approached several times to sell

his customers loved him, and his friends

his business and 20 years ago when that

loved him. He was a Godly man and if you

happened, a lot of our competitors that were

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41

June, 2014

locally owned were in fear that they could

away at the age of 73, but his benevolent spirit

not compete with national firms, so they sold

continues to live through his loving family

their businesses. In doing so, their accounting

and successful business that implements his

department, billing department, customer

legacy and philosophy every day. It is through

service and part centers went away and they

his dedication and passion that Spectrum

created centers in different towns, like New

Technologies can continue to evolve into a

York, Dallas, and Chicago. You can’t run one

future that is focused on doing what Plesant

of these businesses out of town. You can’t

loved most, helping customers and helping

run it as efficiently and he decided that he

the community. “It is a big push within our

was going to stay and compete locally. He

company to have all of our employees get

felt like he could do it better and that proved

involved in many different aspects within the

to be a good decision because we have parts

community. We are constantly talking about

available locally. We have people that our

getting involved and finding out how we

customers can talk to here in El Paso. There

can give to the community, not only in the

are no 1-800 numbers, everything that we

sense of equipment or currency, but time as

do is done out of El Paso, Texas, Las Cruces

well. It is a big initiative throughout the entire

and Alamogordo, New Mexico. The influx of

company,” said Mitch Plesant.

new business coming from these decisions has not only enabled us to compete, but to

But, if Executive Vice President, Mitch

thrive,” said Mitch Plesant. Within the first

Plesant and President, Kyle Elliot could offer

year of Marcelo Plesant purchasing the

a piece of advice to aspiring entrepreneurs

business, the sales were $103,000 with only

it would be, “I think a lot of people get into

four employees. In 2011, under Marcelo

business because they have the thought

Plesant, Mitch Plesant, and Kyle Elliot’s

that they are going to make a lot of money

direction, Spectrum gained total revenue of

and I think money driven decisions are okay,

$11 million and in 2013 the sales approached

there is really nothing against that, but it

$20 million with 80 full time employees.

is also important to look at the serviceminded aspect of the business. You need

On March 20, 2013, Marcelo Pleasant passed

42

to ask yourself, ‘how can I fill a need in the

www.thecitymagazineelp.com

June, 2014

community?’ and truly look at that aspect of that business and say, ‘I’m going to fill this need,’ ‘I’m going to serve.’ The word serve is just so vital in anything that you do because people feel that and when you’re truly focused on serving and filling a need, everything else seems to take care of itself and if you do it in an honest way, your business will grow. It will be taken care of,” said Plesant. Additionally, Elliot added, “Because of our upbringing through my father-in-law’s direction and the impact that he’s had on us, I would say you better get in and be prepared to work hard. Learn your business better than anyone else, and don’t expect to have things handed to you. Work

Conquer Your Financial Future.

hard, deliver value to your client and things will come full circle.”

As for the future for Spectrum Technologies, “We continue to look for growth opportunities in the technology business. We have done a lot to increase our footprint in sales and our technical support aspect of that. We are looking to grow and provide value to our customers” said Elliot optimistically.

A network of Confidence. A network of Trust. A network of Experience.

(800) 863-9048 www.thecitymagazineelp.com

43

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June, 2014

| By: AUSTIN SAVAGE photography by: TOMMIE MORELOS |

44

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Article Title

June, 2014

“I was always in the car and motorcycle business,” says Bob Krasne, “So in 1976 I bought the business and it was three of us. Me, the mechanic and a floor sweeper.” Thus, nearly 40 years ago the fate of Alamo Auto Supply, an El Paso staple synonymous with quality and customer care, was set by a transplant from Omaha, Nebraska.

This first location was located in the 1600 block of Texas. In 1984, in order to better meet the needs of growing demand, the business moved down the street to the 1900 block and finally in 1998 settled into their present location at 5923 Gateway Blvd West. Along the way Bob has made the journey with his two sons, Dick, who joined the business in 1985, and Alan, who would join a year later.

T

his is actually a journey that Dick

a comfortable work situation for all involved

who keeps all the books on the accounting

had no intention of ever making,

and Bob is eager to explain his role, “I’m

and sales end.”

“I had been working as a CPA for

getting set to leave so I would call me the

a couple of years ... I was initially

President/CEO/Retiree.” Dick then explains

The process that the family follows in order

brought in to help spearhead a project and

the duties of the Krasne brothers in the

to find success is often dictated by forces

after we realized that the project wasn’t

Alamo Auto Supply operation chain, “Alan

beyond their control. Dick points out their

going to workout, I just stayed on.” Keeping

is in charge of the marketing, purchasing,

methodology over the last two decades,

it in the family has obviously meant finding

warehouse ... and I’m the Vice President

“We started in and saw various issues of

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45

June, 2014

need and it started us on an evolution where

explains the process of discovery involved

we assess these various forms of need

in the company, “It is not a business that

and adapt to the demands of the region. It

is not easily replicable. We talked over the

allows us to change what we offer to meet

years about moving into other cities, but it

demand.” Bob continues on the thoughts of

just didn’t fit. We instead just decided to stick

his son, “The accessory business has grown

with our local model and be the best version

dramatically over the last 30 years. We have

of what we could be. Otherwise we’d be

grown with pick up sales and the availability

changing a business model and entering into

of trucks. In 2007-2008 truck sales declined,

another city to fight the same local presence

so we were forced by natural market growth

that we’ve become here.” The presence that

to adapt to the commercial and fleet market

they have here is indeed larger than just the

to make up for the business we lost in the

Krasne family name, “We have provided a lot

recreational trucking industry.”

more employment over the years. We went from a staff of three to over 80 employees,”

The offering of services is only part of

beams the father. “We have very few

what has made the Alamo name such a

minimum wage jobs. Most of our employees

tradition in El Paso. The company’s ties to

fall into the lower middle class, upper middle

the communities are an essential element

class category. Enough to make a living,”

to all that they do. This is something that

joins his son.

Bob takes tremendous pride in, “I think [our

success] is in our ability to learn and get in

Prior to starting his own family business here

to new things. We have really high standards

in El Paso, Bob had been raised in one, but

for what we do around here. Doing the best

the tradition of Alamo Auto Supply is not

you can to get it right and standing behind

something that the second generation of

your work. Allowing people to know that we

Krasnes are intent upon, “Alan doesn’t have

will not fly away in six months and showing

any children and I have two,” comments

pride in your labor. Because we’re here and

Dick, “but my bet is that neither of my sons

we can feel the pulse of the community. We

will join the family business.” It turns out

can hear their needs.”

that the family tradition was not something planned by the patriarch either, “My bet was

226 Cincinatti

This connection to El Paso has helped define

that neither of my sons would either,” quips

El Paso, TX 79902

the identity of the business, “We’re into a

Bob. Whether the family tradition continues

915-532-2390

lot of things that are relatively technical and

on, the tradition of quality and innovation is

not easy to sell. This allows us to work with

already built into the brand, and it is one that

stuff that a lot of chain-type businesses have

all in the Sun City should know.

difficulty doing,” points out Bob. Dick also 46

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June, 2014

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June, 2014

48

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June, 2014

A H e a r t f e lt

| By: AUSTIN SAVAGE photography by: TOMMIE MORELOS |

Esteban Loaiza brings kids baseball camps to the Sun City

“After 24 years of playing baseball, it was time to retire.” hese are the soft words that emanate from the mouth of former Major League All-Star and baseball lifer Esteban Loaiza when discussing the motivation that has him bringing a baseball camp to the Sun City.

“It’s an opportunity to develop sportsmanship and develop character. The camp allows me to use my knowledge and skills to help those all the way from the age of five to the age of nineteen. We’ve done these camps all over the world from Guatemala to the Dominican Republic and the same lessons we’ve been sharing there are the ones I hope to bring to El Paso.”

Born in Tijuana, Mexico Loaiza had a varied, lengthy, and ultimately successful career as a major league pitcher highlighted by his All-Star selections in 2003 and 2004. In fact his 2003 season was so dominant that he finished the year second in voting for the American League Cy Young Award (awarded annually to the best pitcher in the game) and tied the major league record of the legendary Fernando Valenzuela for most wins by a Mexican pitcher in a single season with 21.

Since his days playing in the majors, Loaiza has continued his career professionally in various other professional baseball leagues as his passion for the game he loves has never waned, despite the circumstances that have surrounded him as he played. It is this perseverance, along with the actual skills and knowledge that he picked up along the way that Loaiza feels can help him identify with many of the pupils at his basketball camps. “Many of the children we coach are children in need,” he sighs. “Children of domestic violence.“ While his skills as a pitcher are undeniable, the compassion he is revealing in his character is the most striking feature one feels from him. His endless urge to do something with the athletic abilities granted to him to better the lives of those around him is a passion that he does not mind repeating often. It’s simply,” he says, “a chance to give back.” www.thecitymagazineelp.com

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Article Title

50

June, 2014

www.thecitymagazineelp.com

June, 2014 The allure of El Paso seems simple to understand for him. There is a familiar culture and the abilities and passion of El Pasoans for baseball is undeniable from the recent Socorro State Championship to the erection and acceptance of a brand new facility and the team that plays within its confines.

With a culture that he is comfortable with, a community that has demonstrated both an ability and affinity for the sport he loves, and a desire to continue helping those in need, Loaiza’s relationship with the Sun City will extend beyond his baseball camps. “I plan on setting up my offices there,” he says.

“I think it would be a great place to put the offices for my foundation.”

It is from these offices that he hopes to expand and improve the services of his baseball camps. “Right now it is just me running these camps, with a bit of assistance, but I still have a lot of connections throughout baseball and the Major Leagues and there are many professionals who are willing to make the time to do things like this; to share their talents and help out.”

After a lifetime playing the most beautiful of games, a sport which has taking him across the country and around the globe, Esteban Loaiza’s journey through difficult struggles and soaring success has always been based upon his ability to execute. It is a matter of mechanics and a strong mind that leads to success in baseball. The attendees of his camp will get to receive instruction on the former from one of the most qualified teachers in the world, but if they truly listen they will learn that the latter is being revealed by a man who has risen, struggled, endured, succeeded, and in the end, gives with all his heart to those in need.

“It’s just something I want to do. I enjoy helping people. I enjoy giving.” Much like he did throughout his major league career, Esteban Loaiza is still dealing.

www.thecitymagazineelp.com

51

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Profiles men in business

MIKE LUNA BMW-MINI OF EL PASO “We sell the best cars to the best people. We truly are looking out for the customers. We will do whatever possible to get them in one of our cars. We have zero tolerance for unhappy customer service.”

After 45 years in the car business, Mike

At the top of his list, Mike says the key to

And organize he did. By placing high

Luna still cites the excitement of seeing a

a dealership is happy employees; equating

standards on his managers, and instilling daily

customer in their new vehicle as his favorite

happy employees to happy customers. “I

processes and on-site training, BMW-MINI

part of his day. “I learned at a very young age

cannot believe the quality of people I have

of El Paso is on pace towards becoming a

a customer is the essence of why we are

working here. We have fun, but we are

Center of Excellence dealership, the highest

here. In this business, if we don’t take care

focused. Our job is to exceed the customer’s

honor given to a top performing BMW-MINI

of our customer, someone else will.”

expectations.

factor.

store. At only 30 awarded annually, BMW-

Customers come in wanting A, B, and C, we

MINI of El Paso is determined to see this

want to give them X, Y, and Z as well.”

acclaimed goal through in 2015 and beyond.

he places on his employees. “A gentleman

As General Manager of BMW-MINI of El

While the car business can get tough, Mike

by the name of W.O. Bankston taught me

Paso, Mike has his hand in every detail of the

does not let his people get down. “I like

this business. He took a liking me to and I

dealership, from voicing radio commercials

instilling intrinsic motivation and teaching my

certainly admired, loved, and respected him.

to recruiting, training, and promoting his

staff how to stay focused and self-motivated.

He taught me the way you succeed in this

staff. In less than two years, Mike Luna has

Mike also believes in being inclusive with

business is through your employees. I firmly

had a huge leap in sales and broken records

all members of his staff. “None of us are as

believe that and I try and instill that at BMW-

in parts and service. Mike credits his staff in

smart as all of us,” says Mike, and promotes

MINI of El Paso.”

the store’s success. “We always had quality

a team atmosphere where everyone is

people, I just learned how to organize them.”

encouraged to speak up in meetings, and

The excitement Mike Luna shares in with

That’s

the

WOW

his customers is no different from the value

54 | SPECIAL ADVERTISING

By: JENNIFER CEDILLO photographed by: STEVE GARDUNO

offer their thoughts on how to take the

thirteen elementary schools before going into

dealership to the next level.

high school. I learned how to meet people and how to make people like me. I sincerely

It’s no wonder with such a culture, men

believe that is one thing I look at that added

and women are flocking to the dealership

strength to my background.”

to apply for a chance to work at BMW-MINI of El Paso. For Used Car Director, James

The men and women of BMW-MINI of El Paso

Woodhouse, he was sold on the dealership

look at their General Manger as a mentor and

upon his first introduction. “From the very

a friend. The team meets weekly for breakfast

first day I started, I noticed how passionate

meetings at Elmer’s, and has done so every

Mike was about every aspect of the

Friday without fail. “It’s something we all

dealership business, I found his energy and

look forward to.” With such a staff, Mike and

drive to be contagious. I couldn’t imagine

the team at BMW-MINI of El Paso all agree

BMW-MINI of El Paso

myself any other place.”

on one thing. “We sell the best cars to the

6318 Montana Ave.

best people. We truly are looking out for the

El Paso, Texas 79925

A fan of bass fishing, blues music, “I’m a

customers. We will do whatever possible to

(915) 778-9381

huge Stevie Ray Vaughn fan,” and traveling,

get them in one of our cars. If it is important to

bmwofelpaso.com

Mike Luna thanks his upbringing for teaching

our customers, it is important to us. We have

him valuable lessons in business. “I went to

zero tolerance for unhappy customer service.”

SPECIAL ADVERTISING | 55

CLIFF SHAMALEY SHAMALEY FORD “At the end of the day, family is everything. All of our people that work here, they have families, and we all want the best for them. So we show up for work and we give our best because that is what our families deserve. We have a family at home and a family at Shamaley Ford.” chapter of our business.

As General Manager of Shamaley Ford, Cliff

“That’s what keeps people in business, the

Shamaley literally was born into the business.

customer. We make sure that we treat the

Cliff credits his father, the late Lee Shamaley

customer right the first time. Treat them right

On his time off, Cliff enjoys riding motorcycles

Sr. with teaching him the single most important

and they will tell their family, their friends,

and spending time with his wife and children.

component in business. “My father was the

their co-worker, everyone. Customer loyalty

“At the end of the day, family is everything. It

hardest working man I knew. He put his heart

is what drives our business to succeed.”

is what we work hardest for. All of our people that work here, they have families, and we all

and soul into everything he did. I learned the value of hard work right away.” Cliff used his

Shamaley Ford recently went through a

want the best for them. So we show up for

time at the dealership to learn every department

major rebuild to add more amenities to the

work and we give our best because that is

leading up to becoming a General Manager. In

dealership to include an expanded service

what our families deserve. We have a family

2011, Group 1 Automotive acquired Shamaley

area,

at home and a family at Shamaley Ford.”

Ford, and in 2012 Cliff was given the opportunity

showroom, and a state-of-the art collision

to fulfill his dream of becoming General

center. “Our customers made us the largest

Manager of the megastore. “I worked in every

truck center in the southwest and they

area within the dealership. I washed cars, I was

deserve the best treatment when buying

a porter, I worked in parts. I knew that if I earned

from us,” says Cliff.

customer

waiting

lounge,

huge

the opportunity to become General Manager, I had to work my way up. Nothing came handed

When asked what the most valuable lesson

Shamaley Ford

to me. It was all due to hard work.”

he has learned in business Cliff says, “There

11301 Gateway Blvd W.

is no I in TEAM. Everything in business, any

El Paso, TX 79936

When it comes to Shamaley Ford, Cliff places

business, is a team effort. We all rely on

(915) 591-8600

the highest priority on customer service.

one another. Everyone is a key to the next

www.shamaleyford.com

56 | SPECIAL ADVERTISING

By: JENNIFER CEDILLO photographed by: STEVE GARDUNO

Travis Hughes

Kevin O’Neill

Gilbert Cortez

HUGHES FINANCIAL GROUP “Our associates’ credentials, experience and responsible approach allow us to deliver on our promise of personalized service and provide an added level of comfort and confidence for our clients. We look forward to helping you take control of your financial future.”

Travis Hughes

Kevin O’Neill, Financial Consultant

do just that. “We provide over 65 years of collected experience in investment and

CFP, ChFC, CLU, AEP, MSFS, REBC, RHU Kevin O’Neill graduated from Texas Tech

financial planning services,” said Cortez.

University in 1995 and began his career in the

“We are locally bred. We have fully bilingual

After spending most of his youth in Latin

financial world in New York City pitching Dell

planners that can relate to what El Pasoans

and South America, Travis Hughes came

Computer. O’Neill joined Hughes Financial

need, providing a vast array of services that

back to the U.S. and started in the business

Group in 1999. “I work with business owners

we can tailor to our clients.”

of financial planning in 1986. Seven years

and professionals from all financial realms. I

ago he joined forces with several of his

work closely with my clients to determine which

Hughes Financial Group

colleagues and created “Paso Del Norte

services and solutions are best for helping them

5925 Silver Springs Dr.

Wealth Advisors.” “Paso Del Norte Wealth

reach their financial goals.” O’Neill is a member

El Paso, Texas 79912

Advisors” is a practice dedicated to providing

of the Board of Directors of El Paso Bridges

(915) 587-7777

independent financial advice in areas of

Academy and proud parent of his three children,

travishughes.com

creating and preserving financial freedom.

and husband to his wife Rebeca.

Proud Member of Paso Del Norte Wealth Advisors

Certified Financial Planner

“From retirement plans to college funds to passing wealth to the next generation,

Gilbert Cortez, Financial Advisor

our focus is helping clients evaluate and implement a blueprint to reach customized

Gilbert Cortez graduated from UTEP in 2007

goals,” said Hughes.

with a degree in Business Administration.

Cortez has always wanted to be part of a business that is local and personal, and working with Hughes Financial he gets to

Securities offered through Investors Capital Corporation, Member FINRA/SIPC Advisory Services, if applicable, offered through Investors Capital Advisory (800) 949-1422

By: MEAGAN KINLEY photographed by: TOMMIE MORELOS

SPECIAL ADVERTISING | 57

ANTONIO R. SOLIS JR., DDS SOUTHWEST CELEBRITY SMILES

“We are focused on patient care.”

Southwest Celebrity Smiles, El Paso’s own

and pediatric orthodontics (braces), Invisalign,

The myriad of services that Dr. Solis and

dental clinic, offers the city an old-fashioned

and cosmetic dentistry. I’ve been doing

Southwest Celebrity Smiles offer isn’t the

approach to patient service and dental care

Invisalign and braces for 12 years now, our

only thing that sets them apart. They also

you simply cannot find anywhere else in the

patients trust us with it. I’ve studied new and

provide quality care to all patients. “One of

region. Antonio R. Solis Jr., DDS and Shelly

innovative techniques and have taken many

the things we pride ourselves on is our high

M. Gallegos, DDS opened the beautiful

different orthodontic courses.” The same

level of patient care. It truly is number one

Southwest Celebrity Smiles facility four

goes for his advanced cosmetic education,

on our priority list. If you talk to our patients,

years ago and have been offering a countless

learned at the Las Vegas Institute, and his

they will tell you that from the moment they

number of amenities to El Pasoans ever since.

implant restoration education learned at the

walk in, they are treated with the highest

With a full line of services, it’s no wonder

Misch International Implant Institute. “With

level of respect. We treat each one of them

Southwest Celebrity Smiles has become one

pediatric orthodontics, I usually begin treating

special and try to make them as comfortable

of this city’s preferred dental facilities.

children from the age of eight with appliances

as possible while they are here. All reviews

in order to create room needed for the

that are coming back to our office tell us that

“We’re pretty versatile with all of our

permanent dentition, sometimes eliminating

they are very satisfied with our services,”

services,” explained Dr. Solis. “Outside of the

the need for braces in their teens.”

Solis explained. “But what customers love

general dentistry practice, we offer both adult 58 | SPECIAL ADVERTISING

the most is the quality of the dentistry that By: MEAGAN KINLEY photographed by: TOMMIE MORELOS

we do — we are very particular about the

dental school. I got accepted and attended The

Southwest Celebrity Smiles

quality we provide. The distinction of our

University of Texas Dental Branch at Houston

7878 Gateway East Blvd., Suite 101

dentistry is important, most of the time the

where I received my Doctorate of Dental

El Paso, TX 79915

patients don’t know what they’re walking

Surgery. After graduating I came back home to

(915) 595-3333

into, we’re here to provide them with the

El Paso. Four years ago in 2010 we moved to

best care available. Period.”

our new facility here on Gateway East.”

Dr. Solis got his start right here in El Paso. “I

Dr. Solis is a proud supporter of UTEP. He

started as an assistant working in my uncle’s

is also a member of the American Dental

front dental office; he’s still a dentist here in

Association, the International Congress of

town,” recalled Solis. “Working there I was

Oral Implantologists, the El Paso District

put in the middle of the business, and I just

Dental Society, and the American Orthodontic

absorbed everything. It was through this

Society. Today, he resides here in El Paso and

experience that I fell in love with dentistry.

dedicates his free time to raising his three

From

beautiful daughters.

there

I

worked

hard,

attending

community college, UTEP and then I applied to SPECIAL ADVERTISING | 59

ST

EDITO R'S PIC K I OT LUXURY AUTOM

VE

BE

KEITH YOUNG, SERVICE MANAGER

MERCEDES-BENZ OF EL PASO

“We work diligently to retain our clients’ loyalty with our quality customer service.”

Native El Pasoan, Keith Young, Service

Young prides himself on his vast experience

always been said that sales sells the first

Manager for Mercedes Benz of El Paso has

dealing

performance

car and service sells all the rest. With that in

worked for Hoy-Fox for 37 years. “This has

vehicles. “As a Master Technician, these

mind, we work everyday to retain customers

been my life. When we opened this business

skills help me understand some of the

and expand our client base.”

in the mid 70s, we were a Volkswagen and a

complexities of these cars,” Young said.

Peugeot Dealership. Over time Volvo, Subaru,

“These vehicles are extremely high tech; my

and Kia were also part of our service. Through

background gives me a good interface with

the years we have developed to what you

the technicians who are physically working

see now, Mercedes Benz and Volkswagen.

on them. I understand what the situations

I stared out as a technician, then became

are regarding the difficulties with the car

our Shop Foreman for about nine years, and

versus what the customer’s expectations

have been the Service Manager ever since.

are. There are some that do not have

I’ve really spent most of my time working

technical backgrounds whom are managers

with cars and our customers. In the earlier

and without these skills it’s not easy to

years of my career I earned the ratings of

identify and correct complex problems.”

with

these

high

Mercedes-Benz of El Paso 1122 Airway Blvd.

Master Technician with Volkswagen as well as Mercedes Benz. Over time this helped

Young and his team at Mercedes-Benz

El Paso, Texas 79925

prepare me to achieve the ratings of Master

of El Paso work to ensure the complete

(888) 715-4527

Certified Volkswagen and Mercedes-Benz

satisfaction of their customers. “Customer

hoyfoxmercedesbenz.com

Service Manager,” explained Young.

service is paramount to our business. It’s

60 | SPECIAL ADVERTISING

By: MEAGAN KINLEY photographed by: ROBERT CORRAL

WILLIAM ESTRADA, SERVICE DIRECTOR

HOY-FOX ACURA/INFINITI

“We do everything for our customers with a personal touch.”

Hoy-Fox Acura and Infiniti’s Service Director,

that’s worth more than the money you spend on

William Estrada has worked in the car

it, in both durability and overall cost. Our cars are

business for more than 37 years. “For as

simply exceptional. Acura and Infiniti owners

long as I can remember, I have always loved

are very proud and devoted owners. The loyalty

cars including working on them to keeping

of our Acura and Infiniti owners is what’s special

up with the new and improved technology

to us and we seek to honor that when dealing

involved with today’s leading manufacturers.

with each of our customers.”

I especially enjoy working with customers. I love all aspects of the automotive industry —

At Hoy-Fox Acura/Infiniti, Estrada and the

and now with this job, I get to do all of these

service department bring their customers the

things. Working in an environment where I

best in quality customer service. “We pride

get to combine helping people and working

ourselves on our customer service,” Estrada

Hoy-Fox Acura

with cars is truly rewarding.” Estrada has

explained. “When a customer brings their

7230 Viscount Blvd.,

also worked with BMW, Chevrolet and for

car into the service department, we want to

El Paso, Texas 79925

the last year and a half he has brought all of

return the vehicle in better shape than when

(915) 778-0044

his knowledge and experience to the Hoy-

it was brought in. Altogether our personal and

hoyfoxacura.com

Fox Acura/Infiniti team.

friendly greeting consultants and staff handle everything. We love taking a customer who

Estrada is very proud of both the Acura and

is upset or disappointed and turning them

Infiniti brands. “We carry good, quality cars; a car

into a customer for life.”

By: MEAGAN KINLEY photographed by: ROBERT CORRAL

SPECIAL ADVERTISING | 61

XAVIER ESCOBEDO SCC IMAGING “At SCC Imaging we promise to take care of YOU!” We have all been to doctor’s offices where we

Association) and RBMA (Radiology Business

industry. Our Radiologist, Dr. Jeff Krantz, is a

have had to wait long hours, where we have felt

Management Association).

former faculty member from the University of Massachusetts, and has subspecialty training

ignored, where even the staff is unfriendly— But there is one clinic in El Paso with the goal

Now working at SCC Imaging, he has been

with neuroradiology, musculoskeletal, sports

of defying this stereotype and giving people

instrumental in helping his company attain the

medicine imaging, and breast and women-

the quality care they deserve. “At SCC Imaging

respect and acclaim it has earned. “We provide

specific imaging. Altogether, we have been able

we don’t make you wait long hours and we

imaging services, specifically MRI, Ultrasound,

to come up with a team of specialized people

make sure you have a great experience with

and X-ray,” Escobedo said. “But I am proud

that reflect the true meaning of synergy.”

us,” explained Xavier Escobedo, administrator

to say that it is not only the actual services

at SCC Imaging. Escobedo, who attained a

that we give, we provide these services with

Simply offering one of the best services in the

Bachelor of Science degree on Information

Superior Customer Care, which is what SCC

city isn’t enough for Escobedo and his team,

Systems from Tecnologico de Monterrey has

stands for. Everyone in the company focuses

they truly care about customer service. “Our

also been a business owner for over ten years.

on making sure that the patients have the best

front desk staff brews fresh coffee for every

Outside of this work, he has spent time teaching

experience, our team goes above and beyond

patient; our technologists make our patients

business classes at the university level for two

to treat patients with dignity and respect. Our

feel at ease and comfortable; our radiologist is

and half years and is also an active member

team of technologists has all of the required

not hidden in a dark office, he talks to patients,

of MGMA (Medical Group Management

certifications and has great experience in the

and better yet, he visits and calls the referring

62 | SPECIAL ADVERTISING

By: MEAGAN KINLEY photographed by: TOMMIE MORELOS

physicians,” said Escobedo. “Our marketers

success it has experienced today. “I think

establish relationships with the referring

success is a way of measuring if you have

physicians and their staff, and we do whatever

accomplished your goals, not only that, I

is within our reach to make everyone’s life

think that in order to be successful you need

easier, from the patients to referring people.”

to align your goals with your dreams. If you are fulfilling your dreams and achieving your

Moving ahead, SCC Imaging is looking to

goals, more than likely you are also having

further their scope. “Our goal is to get more

fun while doing it, and what can be better

modalities, in our near future is a CT Scanner

than that?” And that is exactly what sets

and a Mammogram Machine. But El Paso

SCC Imaging apart, with staff members

has potential for more than just a clinic; we

like Xavier Escobedo; it’s easy to see the

SCC Imaging

want to open more locations. I see a lot of

passion and love he carries for his company.

3080 Joe Battle Blvd.

potential in this industry and we have big

With the support of his loving wife and three

El Paso, Texas 79938

plans for the company. Leadership and vision

children, he continues to sharpen his work

(915) 313-7325

will continue to set SCC Imaging at a higher

and skill set.

(915) 313-7326

level,” said Escobedo. That leadership and

sccimagingep.com

vision is what has brought the company the SPECIAL ADVERTISING | 63

SCOTT ESPINOZA PAPER CUTS “Customers choose us because we have the latest software and equipment solutions with a dedicated staff that believes every customer deserves our complete dedication.”

The concept of finding a good printer for all

byte hard drive cost over $1,000 — our first

test of time. “We still work with companies

of your professional needs is something that

desktop publishing system cost well over

we worked with 20 years ago. We have

is easily taken for granted in today’s media

$20,000. I got my start along side my mom

grown by word of mouth by providing

saturated world. What we end up with, more

in printing by publishing newsletters and

great designs, innovative ideas, exceptional

often than not, is a product that isn’t worthy

branding management companies in the

customer service and exceptional quality.

of the time and trust you put into it. Scott

multi-housing industry and continued from

Our customers also love us because we have

Espinoza, owner of Paper Cuts Printing, and

there.” Today Espinoza, with the love and

the quickest turnaround in the industry,”

his team are working to bring automated

support of his wife and children and staff,

explained Espinoza.

online print solutions to El Paso.

works tirelessly to provide the best printing Today Paper Cuts has grown, carrying the

capabilities possible.

latest and fastest equipment available on

Espinoza, who has worked in printing for 20 years, began his career in the industry

With 20 years of experience, Espinoza

the market. “We handle the design and

when he was still in high school. “I have

has plenty of knowledge in all sides of the

print for many local and national companies.

worked in printing and graphic design for as

printing business. In particular, Paper Cuts

We produce 99% of our products in

long as I can remember, it never gets old,”

quality service is definitely an aspect of their

house and create all our own designs and

said Espinoza. “I started when a 40-mega

business model that has truly stood the

programming for our website and software

64 | SPECIAL ADVERTISING

By: MEAGAN KINLEY photographed by: ROBERT CORRAL

that customizes our entire process. We are

recent purchase is really exciting: an 8-foot

More than anything, Espinoza knows he

currently launching a new custom business

wide flat bed printer from HP that can print

wouldn’t be anywhere without the hard

product solution in El Paso that brings online

on virtually any rigid substrate. We also ship

work and dedication of his team. “I have

tools and print together to allow custom

daily all over the country and we are opening

been able to build a great and loyal staff that

ordering and same day printing. We build

up our largest shop in June on the east side

I am dedicated to seeing grow and share in

tools exactly to our customers specifications

of El Paso,” Espinoza said. Paper Cuts is

my company’s success. I simply owe them

so we can facilitate their entire print process

excited to open their new location, but also

everything and couldn’t do it without them,”

by providing cloud services, online proofing

to expand their services.

Espinoza said.

and management tools. On top of that, we Cuts

also

prides

itself

on

its

Paper Cuts

constantly purchase the latest technology

Paper

available. We currently have the only Xerox

environmentally conscience business plan.

900 Loma Verde, Ste. E

color press 1000 allowing us to print high

They use custom cutters and have numerous

El Paso, Texas 79936

quality color at 100 pages per minute. We are

production measures to reduce waste and

(915) 249-2471

spending a great deal on expansion with a

recycle all paper scraps, and 90% of all the

new press from Ricoh and three wide format

paper they buy is FCS certified, recycled and

production presses from Epson. Our most

made in the U.S.

SPECIAL ADVERTISING | 65

BEN ARRIOLA, SR., BEN ARRIOLA, JR., & CHRIS ARRIOLA SOUTHWEST UNIVERSITY AT EL PASO

66 | SPECIAL ADVERTISING

By: MEAGAN KINLEY photographed by: JORGE YAPOR

“The mission of Southwest University at El Paso is to provide exceptional career and technical training, promote intellectual growth, critical examination and informed understanding through general education and a commitment to educational excellence strengthened by quality instruction, a positive learning environment and the integration of emerging technologies to enable students to achieve their potential, participate in new employment opportunities and continue to be lifelong learners.”

The Arriola family has done everything in

potential to exceed their dreams. Our job is

their power to bring quality education to the

to give you the tools to make that happen,”

city of El Paso. Over the years three men:

said Ben Jr. “Today’s university must not only

Ben Arriola, Sr., Ben Arriola Jr., and Chris

teach the technical skills associated with that

Arriola have been integral to the success

career, but also the soft skills necessary to

of the university and ultimately, the lives of

thrive in the job market.”

thousands living in and around El Paso who have pursued higher education. “Our goal

Chris Arriola

is to continue to provide El Paso with more

Chris Arriola graduated from NMSU in 2010

options and more opportunities. We believe

with a Bachelor of Business Administration

in El Paso and we believe in El Pasoans,”

in Management degree. Currently continuing

explained Ben Jr.

his education at Capella University by attaining his Master of Science in Leadership,

Ben Arriola, Sr.

he started working for the University back

Ben Arriola, Sr. got his start serving in the

in 2009 as a part-time employee handling

military as a Special Weapons Operations

administration duties in the evenings. Today

Officer. He also served as a Maintenance

he works in the administration department

Officer

responsibility

for the Automotive and Diesel programs

overseeing 6,000 gas and diesel powered

where he coordinates all events at the facility.

vehicles. “This unique experience gave me

“My main role at Southwest University is to

the necessary skills of overseeing what

ensure students are receiving the quality

would become the Diesel and Automotive

education they signed up for. I love hearing

Department at Southwest University. Today

about our student’s success stories. The

we instill a positive approach in developing

transformation process the students go

confident and proficient technicians. The

through is quite an adventure for which they

aspect and importance of customer service is

positively change academically and in their

stressed and is also taught by example. We

personal lives. Changing the lives of our

take pride in the preparation of our students

students for the better means I am doing my

for real world business expectations,” said

job successfully.”

where

he

had

Ben Sr. Southwest University at El Paso Ben Arriola, Jr.

1414 Geronimo Dr.

Today, Ben Arriola, Jr. is the Vice President of

El Paso, Texas 79925

Southwest University at El Paso. He has been

Main Campus

a part of the university for 14 years and has

(915) 778-4001

served and filled various roles and capacities in that time. “On a personal level, I am a

Financial Aid

people person. My talents are understanding

(915) 613-0459

and identifying with my team members and students. When you truly understand what

Diesel/Auto Campus

someone wants or needs, you are able to

(915) 313-7310

give them the service and attention they

southwestuniversity.edu

deserve. We believe that everyone has the SPECIAL ADVERTISING | 67

SID STEADMAN

SUNSET GARDENS AND EVENT CENTER & MASTER CUTS As the son of a horticulturist, Sid Steadman grew up accustomed to greenery and feeling

Steadman. “We are also proud to have Caroline Witmore as our Event Planner.”

his hands planted firmly in soil. Born in El Paso, Steadman’s family moved to Georgia

In the year and a half since Sunset garden

when he was four-years-old, enabling his

opened, it’s become the largest nursery on

father to obtain his degree in Horticulture and

the Westside of El Paso, offering customers

his mother to earn her Masters in Music from

the nicest trees, shrubs, flowers, decorative

the University of Georgia. Upon moving back

pots and water features in the area.

to El Paso, Steadman’s mother became the orchestra director at Coronado High School

Priding himself on his hands-on approach,

where she is still teaching today. His father

Steadman strives to be the best landscape

opened Landscape West where the young

and construction professional in El Paso. He

Steadman often accompanied his dad to

elaborates by saying; “I work collaboratively

work at the job sites.

with my clients to carry out their vision.

Ultimately my goal is to create works of art

With the passion for landscaping running

beyond their dreams. My greatest reward is

through his veins, Steadman founded Master

to see the customer in awe of the completed

Cuts in 1989. “Lawn maintenance and tree

project.”

pruning was about all we did back then because I didn’t want to be in competition

As far as the future goes, growth is

with my father,” Steadman recalled. Now the

inevitable. Steadman plans to be an Outdoor

company has grown to offer a multitude of

Building Material Center offering flagstone,

additional services. Among those services are

limestone and boulders for both commercial

commercial and residential landscape design

and residential installations.

and maintenance, tree pruning and removal, outdoor living design which features kitchen, fireplace and pergola design and installation, along with irrigation and fertilization, and environmental restoration.

Steadman has over 50 employees and is now licensed in Texas, New Mexico, Arizona and Oklahoma with offices in El Paso, Midland

Sunset Gardens and Event Center

and Tucson. He’s proud to say that in July he

& Master Cuts

will be celebrating his 25th year in business.

105 Lindbergh El Paso, Texas 79932

In 2004, Steadman purchased property

(915) 581-2504

with plans of building a nursery and event

www.sunsetgardensep.com

center. As the economy slowed, Steadman’s plans were put on hold. With the desire to see vision brought to reality, Steadman purchased Sunset Gardens in 2012. “We’ve fully remodeled and improved it and will have our Event Center completed soon,” shared

68 | SPECIAL ADVERTISING

By: CANDACE VASQUEZ AND LADONNA APODACA photographed by: ROBERT CORRAL

“I work collaboratively with my clients to ensure that I carry out their vision.”

SPECIAL ADVERTISING | 69

RICARDO SAMANIEGO

SPORT CLIPS

Sport Clips offers a unique experience where you feel like you’ve stepped into a sports arena, custom made with basketball court floors that are easy on the stylist team’s feet.

With the spirit of barbershops, there is a

are easy on the stylist team’s feet. The stylists

Samaniego’s involvement in the community

tradition that was meant to stay within the

are a team of professionals who help create

has helped transcribe Sport Clips into

family. Going to get a haircut was a bonding

a welcoming environment. Whether there’s

helping fundraisers and charities dealing with

experience between a father and his son.

an important game on, a specific cut you

health, sports and well-being. Sport Clips

Ricardo Samaniego, recently retired from

like, or just a good cut, the stylists are able to

also participates in the annual Help a Hero

GCC America as Vice President of Human

collaborate with each other and the customer

fundraiser and their favorite organization is

Resources and Organizational Development,

to create the perfect experience.

the Boys and Girls Club.

the tradition can stand strong. He is also

Along with a stylistic cut, Samaniego also

Sport Clips

presently a Human Resources Consultant

offers a scalp massage with tea tree oil

655 Sunland Park, Suite C3, 79912

and Executive Coach and the Chairman of

shampoo, a neck and shoulder massage,

(915) 474-3458

the Board for BienVivir. Samaniego opened

and a hot towel facial treatment in a room

Sport Clips on Sunland Park four years ago,

where sports hall of famers would be proud.

Sport Clips Horizon City (Inside Walmart)

and in the Super Wal-Mart of Horizon in

The cut, massage and treatment only take 20

13900 Horizon Blvd

October 2013.

minutes and clients leave with a therapeutic

Horizon City, Texas 79928

air about them. Samaniego was proud to talk

(915) 852-4848

decided to create an atmosphere where

Sport Clips offers a unique experience where

about Sport Clips’ consistency on its ranking

you feel like you’ve stepped into a sports arena,

in the nation, always straddling the 100 place

custom made with basketball court floors that

mark out of about 1,300 locations in the US.

70 | SPECIAL ADVERTISING

By: LAURA WERTHMANN photographed by: TOMMIE MORELOS

CARLOS QUINONEZ & JOSE SALAYANDIA

QUINONEZ & SALAYANDIA LAW FIRM, PLLC

“We are a local law firm founded by partners that were born and raised in this community.

We have attended the schools and are proud of our roots.”

Products of the El Paso area and the El

and misdemeanor cases while working as

“In the end, this business is about helping

Paso public education system, attorneys

a Federal Public Defender in the Western

people during tough times. To us, and to

Jose Salayandia and Carlos Quinonez have

District of Texas. I have experience handling

our clients, each case is very important.

a passion for helping the people of El Paso.

complex federal cases involving drugs,

The consequences may vary from case to

“We are a local law firm founded by partners

money laundering or guns.”

case but it’s important to acquire the best outcome for the client in the most ethical and

that were born and raised in this community,” shared Jose Salayandia. “We have attended

Attorney Carlos Quinonez is the El Paso Family

the schools and are proud of our roots.”

Bar president and is a graduate of Del Valle

professional way possible.”

High School, the University of Texas at Austin

Quinonez & Salayandia Law Firm, PLLC

Born in El Paso and raised in Socorro,

and Texas A&M University School of Law.

11890 Vista Del Sol, Ste. A-115

Salayandia attended Socorro High School, El

Quinonez also has a background in finance and

El Paso, Texas 79936

Paso Community College and the University

worked as a financial advisor prior to attending

Phone: 915.533.0009

of Texas at Austin before graduating from the

law school. “I acquired a good practice and

Toll Free: 888.301.1116

Texas Tech School of Law in 2007. Following

my next logical step was to represent clients

www.eastelpasolawyer.com

his graduation from law school, Salayandia

in legal matters,” explained Quinonez. “So

played an integral role in helping the Juvenile

whether it’s representing clients in a contested

Public Defender Office in Webb County. “In

child custody matter or a complex divorce, I

addition to working with juvenile clients,

am ready to listen and represent my client’s

I have worked hundreds of federal felony

position in search of a successful outcome.”

By: CANDACE VASQUEZ photographed by: ROBERT CORRAL

SPECIAL ADVERTISING | 71

BUD RENO, GENERAL MANAGER

ALAMO AUTO SUPPLY

“Alamo has been a family-run locally-owned business for over 65 years.

We understand the culture and needs of El Pasoans.”

– BUD RENO, GENERAL MANAGER

When driving down I-10, you may notice the

With

and

The mission of Alamo Auto Supply is evident

towering red Alamo Auto Supply sign — but

their new Buckner location — complete

in everything they do and in every service

what you may not know is that behind that

with state-of-the-art equipment and ASE

they offer. “For work or play or style or show,

sign exists one of the largest automotive

certified technicians — they now offer

we do all the things that help people get the

accessory stores in the country. “What is

vehicle maintenance and repair to fleets

most out of their vehicles.”

exciting for us is that we have built a business

and individuals. The shop is open to the

that helps people make their vehicles look

public and it is equipped to service all types

Alamo Auto Supply

better and ultimately, work better,” said

of vehicles. “People have been asking for

5923 Gateway Blvd. West

Bud Reno, General Manager of Alamo Auto

this for a long time. Now we don’t have to

El Paso, Texas 79925

Supply. “We offer a huge range of products

send our customers anywhere else. We

(915) 781-1234

and services — from dashboard covers,

know people want to deal with people they

window tint, and stereos to truck bed covers,

trust when they get their vehicle serviced.

Alamo Auto Supply Fleet Services

step bars, toolboxes and suspensions — and

We are focused on providing quality work,

3650 Buckner St.

installation of those items. We also work with

honest advice and fair prices to all of our

El Paso, Texas 79925

fleet and commercial customers to help them

customers.” Reno said.

(915) 242-0300

Alamo’s

continued

growth

outfit their vehicles. What ties everything we do together is that we are focused on helping people maximize the value of their vehicles.”

72 | SPECIAL ADVERTISING

By: MEAGAN KINLEY photographed by: TOMMIE MORELOS

WESTSTAR BANK “To me business is all about relationships. With 31 years of commercial lending experience here in El Paso, I feel it’s a true privilege to work so closely with local businesses and families.”

– DAVID OSBORN, CHIEF LENDING OFFICER

WestStar Bank is a success story in the

lending experience here in El Paso, I feel it’s

Bill Brady, Director of Investments, is as equally

purest tradition of American free enterprise.

a true privilege to work so closely with local

committed to client service. “In our fiduciary

From a single, start-up location in downtown

businesses and families.”

role, our clients have placed the utmost trust and confidence in us to manage and preserve

El Paso in 1990, it has since grown to become a diversified financial services institution

Joe Sayklay, First Senior Vice President of

their wealth, and to craft the best solution for

with ten banking locations and over a billion

Wealth Management, charged to establish and

their needs.” As Bill sees it, “I take that role

dollars in assets. What’s the recipe for such

now leads the Wealth Management division

seriously. It drives me every day.”

success? It starts with great customers

as they develop and manage comprehensive

combined with equal parts exceptional staff

investment and asset management plans for

and board of directors, superior service, and

business owners, high-net worth individuals, and

strong customer focus.

foundations throughout El Paso and Southern New Mexico. “It’s personally rewarding to know

As Chief Lending Officer, David Osborn’s role

we’re not only a leading community bank, but

is to oversee the bank’s impressive roster

also a regional leader in Fiduciary and Investment

of commercial lending talent and ensure

Management services,” Joe says. He believes

Principal Office

local businesses are receiving the financial

WestStar Bank distinguishes itself from others

500 North Mesa

support they need to prosper and grow.

by the personalized way it services clients. “We

El Paso, Texas 79901

“To me, business is all about relationships,”

treat each customer individually, understanding

(915) 532-1000

says David. “With 31 years of commercial

no one solution is right for everyone.”

weststarbank.com

By:RUTH GIFFORD Photographed by: TOMMIE MORELOS

SPECIAL ADVERTISING | 73

CARLOS & CHARLIE PRIEMER

HAL’S HOBBY WAREHOUSE

“They greatest joy we have in this business is being able to use models, and the different products we have in our shop to teach children about Science, Math and Engineering.”

Sitting on El Paso’s east side, Hal’s Hobby

the hobby shop in 1976; we’ve been in

not only buy and care for your cars, but the

Warehouse, a complete hobby shop with

business ever since, learning and growing

chance to go head-to-head with other racers

it’s own on-road and off-road state-of-the-art

with our customers.”

and truly get the most for your investment.

“This is so much more than just selling toys,

racing track (that is handicap accessible), is one of the most revered and respected hobby

Providing the best products in the business,

it is the ability to teach children and young

shops in the U.S. Owned and operated by

Hal’s has won numerous awards in the El

adults aspects of science and math that will

the Priemer family, founder Carlos Priemer

Paso community and nationwide. In 2004

serve to enrich their futures,” says Carlos.

describes how he came to start such a fun

they even listed as the #1 hobby shop in

and unexpected business, “I was born in

the nation. People come from all over the

Hal’s Hobby Warehouse

Peru to German parents. Thanks to them, I

U.S. and the world to shop Hal’s extensive

1440 Bessemer

learned to speak fluent English, German and

inventory ranging from HD cameras, metal

El Paso, Texas

Spanish. I finished high school over there

detectors all sizes of RC cars and trucks to

(915) 591-2213

and then came to the United States and

RC airplanes, RC helicopters and aircrafts,

went to university ‘to get civilized’, according

to model train in all scales, from N guage

to my parents. At LeTourneau University,

to G guage. But with all of these products

I received a Mechanical Industrial degree

and more, perhaps the most exciting aspect

and began working for corporate America. I

of the warehouse is their weekend races.

worked for different businesses and did that

With races occurring every Saturday on a

for many years. After I left that business, I

track that is one of only three of its kind in

poured the rest of my savings into starting

the country, Hal’s offers you the chance to

74 | SPECIAL ADVERTISING

By: MEAGAN KINLEY photographed by: TOMMIE MORELOS

ROD REYES

MASSAGE ENVY SPA Massage Envy Spa offers customized therapeutic massages and healthy skin facials by licensed professionals.

After a hard long day you want to be able to

Stone, Reflexology, Trigger Point, Prenatal

In addition to professional, customized,

go and get a professional quality massage

and several more. To further enhance your

therapeutic massages, Massage Envy Spa

by a licensed massage therapist that can

massage, Massage Envy Spa offers a choice

offers healthy skin facials using the Murad

customize the massage to your needs. Five

of Aromatherapy blends, a sugar foot scrub

skin care product line. There are two licensed

years ago Rod Reyes could not find that as

or a deep muscle therapy treatment which

estheticians in each location that perform

he was accustomed to in Scottsdale, Ariz.,

can be added to most customized massages.

facials such as Anti aging, Acne, Vitamin C

where he was a member at a Massage Envy

Within the Massage Envy Spa community

and Sensitive skin treatments.

Spa. This led Mr. Reyes to open his first

the El Paso and Las Cruces locations rank

Massage Envy Spa in Las Cruces, then two

in the top 10% of the franchise in customer

Massage Envy Spa at The Fountains

in El Paso and two more in Albuquerque. He

service and quality treatment. Mr. Reyes

8889 Gateway Blvd. West, Ste. 500

wanted to share what he had experienced as

says, “It is a great feeling that the Massage

El Paso, TX 79925 | (915) 590-3689

a member of a Massage Envy Spa.

Envy Spa’s in El Paso and Las Cruces rank so high.” He attributes it to his professional

customized

staff in each location. Massage Envy Spa in

therapeutic massages and healthy skin facials

El Paso recently won the El Paso Times Best

by licensed professionals. Because everyone’s

of the Borders and Las Cruces won the Las

needs are different, Mr. Reyes commented

Cruces Sun News Readers Choice Award for

that the professionals at Massage Envy Spa

the best massage therapists.

Massage

Envy

Spa

offers

are licensed and trained in a variety of massage modalities such as Deep Tissue, Swedish, Hot By: LAURA WERTHMANN photographed by: TOMMIE MORELOS

Massage Envy Spa West 7500 N. Mesa Dr. Ste. 207 El Paso, TX 79912 | (915) 585-3689 Massage Envy Spa Las Cruces 540 Walton Blvd. Ste. A Las Cruces, NM 88011 | (575) 525-3689 www.massageenvy.com SPECIAL ADVERTISING | 75

CHRISTOPHER ROJAS

ERA SELLERS BUYERS & ASSOCIATES Christopher has been very involved with the local schools and area children during his professional career, especially his alma mater El Paso High School.

Local Realtor® Christopher Rojas is dedicated

$1,000 to Sarah Ballard, a local teen that hopes

Christopher recently became one of the

to making a positive difference in the

to attend UTEP in the fall to study biology.

representatives for Punto Living Homes, a high-end builder that allows homebuyers

community, making El Paso continue as one “When meeting with these children,” Rojas

to design a truly custom home with the

said, “I just hope to give at least one the

company’s architect. Punto Living, which has

Christopher has been very involved with

motivation to keep going with their education

been building homes for several decades,

the local schools and area children during

and push them to do more with their lives.”

provides many fine details into each project

of the greatest places to live in the country.

that allow their homes to stand apart

his professional career, especially his alma mater El Paso High School. Throughout

This dedication to the community carries with

from the “cookie-cutter” homes in many

each year, he provides school supplies and

it the same passion that Christopher brings

neighborhoods.

Christmas gifts to numerous schools as well

to his clients in each real estate transaction.

as donations to the EPHS orchestra and

He regularly works with those that have

ERA Sellers Buyers & Associates

takes opportunities to speak to area students

been pushed aside by other agents in town

Christopher Rojas – Realtor

through career-day programs.

because of the difficulties involved, whether

780 N. Resler Dr.

working with a client to improve their credit

El Paso TX 79912

Additionally, Christopher set up a scholarship

score or continuing to assist them after a

915.443.3598

fund to help support EPHS students that

home sale is complete.

www.chrisrojasrealtor.com www.facebook.com/chrisrojasrealtor

deserve a chance to better themselves through higher education. For the 2013-14

“I like to put that little something ‘extra’ into

school year, his scholarship was able to award

the ‘ordinary’ transaction,” he said.

76 | SPECIAL ADVERTISING

Photographed by: ROBERT CORRAL

JUAN CARLOS RODRIGUEZ

SILVER SPRINGS POOL & SPA

“Choosing Silver Springs means that you’ve chosen a builder that’s been selectively qualified and has proven their dedication to integrity, quality and service.”

With a vibrant global residency that has

“Silver Springs Pool & Spa is a part of the

portfolio and references to prove it. Our

undoubtedly

transcendent

Aquatech Corporation. For more than 50

workers are artisans that will work with

design work, Juan Carlos Rodriguez grew up

years this corporation has been rated the

passion, dedication and attention to detail.”

in Guadalajara. After attending the School of

one with the highest quality standards and

Architecture at the University of Guadalajara,

customer satisfaction,” shared Rodriguez.

With an expansion into Central Texas in the

Rodriguez moved to Perugia, Italy to study

“As an Aquatech award-winning residential

works, Silver Springs Pool & Spa is in the

Mediterranean and Tuscan design. The

builder, Silver Springs using only the highest

pursuit of “more opportunities where we

following year, Rodriguez found his way

standards of excellence will build our clients’

can apply our experience and creativity into

back to Guadalajara where he met and

outdoor dreams. We don’t just build pools;

a broader market.”

married his wife, Lorena, who serves as the

we

company’s administrator. Rodriguez worked

oases using innovative design, unparalleled

Silver Springs Pool & Spa

with an architectural firm in Miami where he

craftsmanship and uncompromising ethics.”

5472 La Estancia Cir.

inspired

his

build

individually

inspired

outdoor

El Paso, TX 79932

specialized in urban design and landscaping and was given the opportunity to do the same

“Silver Springs is more than just a name,

915.256.9890

work in El Paso on a temporary basis in 1995.

it’s our reputation; and we take that very

www.silverspringspoolandspa.net

Soon thereafter, Rodriguez opted to remain in

seriously. Choosing Silver Springs means

El Paso, becoming dedicated to the practice

that you’ve chosen a builder that’s been

of Landscape Architecture and subsequently

selectively qualified and has proven their

founding Silver Springs Pool & Spa.

dedication to integrity, quality and service.

We are always reputable and have the

By: CANDACE VASQUEZ photographed by: TOMMIE MORELOS

SPECIAL ADVERTISING | 77

CHRISTIAN GARCIA

V & X BOUTIQUE

The boutique offers quality and affordable fashion trends with the young adult, university student, and young professional in mind.

Christian Garcia always aspired to open his

you can go out to a club.” Their women’s

V & X Boutique

own clothing boutique, but always left it on

collection contains a trendy or “bohemian

3800 N. Mesa B2

the backburner of his mind. The moment he

chic” feeling for any fashion enthusiast.

El Paso, TX. 79912

and Viannka Barroso were able to put their

All the garments for both men and women

vnxboutique@gmail.com

business and fashion expertise together they

are selective and unique, with hopes that

(915) 351-8692

came up with V & X Boutique. The boutique

customers of V & X Boutique will notice the

www.vnxboutique.com

offers quality and affordable fashion trends

exclusive pieces and adapt V & X Boutique’s

Instagram: vandxboutique

with the young adult, university student, and

clothing into their own style.

Facebook V&X Boutique

young professional in mind. The idea is to offer the experience of shopping at a stylish

V & X Boutique opened in October of 2013,

boutique to any fashionista on a budget.

and shoppers have been appreciating its affordable unique finds, with an already

There is a section for both men and women,

growing clientele of regulars. V & X Boutique

holding casual and formal wear for any

has also loaned their clothes to different

occasion. The men’s sections holds many

organization fashion shows to help them

flexible garments where dressing up or down

raise funds and spread the boutique’s name.

is never a challenge. Garcia states, “It can be something dressy, it can be something casual; you can go out to the movies or

78 | SPECIAL ADVERTISING

By: LAURA WERTHMANN photographed by: TOMMIE MORELOS

DR. DEAN E. SMITH, M.D.

EL PASO SPINE CENTER

“Spinal Surgery is driven by patient demand. People want smaller incisions, fewer risks, less pain, better and more reliable results. I have dedicated my life to meeting those demands.”

“I can still remember the day I decided to

at Louisiana State University. From there

day of surgery, or the next. With the newest

become a doctor. I was 14 and staying on a

he attained a General Surgery Internship

in cutting edge technology, it is no wonder

farm in Sterlington, Louisiana,” recalled Dr.

in Orthopedic Surgery and completed a

Dr. Smith and the El Paso Spine Center has

Dean E. Smith. “Working as a ranch hand, it

Spine Fellowship with the County of Los

experienced the success they enjoy today.

was my job to help build the new corrals for

Angeles. In 1993 he moved to El Paso and

the cows. One day I had to go to town with

began work at the El Paso Orthopaedic

El Paso Spine Center

the owner, who worked as a physician, to

Surgery Group, where he served as a Spine

11880 Vista Del Sol, Suite B

get some supplies. While in town I saw this

Surgeon from June 1993 to November of

El Paso, Texas 79936

man walked up to him and began to ask him

2005. That’s when he decided to start his

(915) 857-6699

questions. The physician told him to stop by

own practice and the El Paso Spine Center

elpasospinecenter.com

his office later so that he could take care of

was born in 2006. The El Paso Spine Center

him. I was so amazed by the conversation, I

is dedicated to minimally invasive spinal

decided that’s what I would do with my life.”

surgeries, including the Cervical Thoracic

Forty years later Dr. Smith has fulfilled that

and Lumbar Spine.

dream and become one of the leading spine doctors in El Paso.

Altogether, Dr. Smith has performed more than 10,000 spinal procedures of the

Dr. Smith got his start in the medical field

Cervical Thoracic and Lumbar Spine. 98% of

after graduating from the School of Medicine

his patients are able to leave the hospital the

By: MEAGAN KINLEY photographed by: TOMMIE MORELOS

SPECIAL ADVERTISING | 79

CHARLES J. RUHMANN IV

RUHMANN LAW FIRM

“We aim to continue helping local El Pasoans with any personal injury claims while adding other area of claims and litigation to our firm.”

Rooted and grounded in El Paso, the

voice or that need help,” explained Ruhmann.

With the purposeful drive toward continued

Ruhmann Law Firm is headquartered in the

With the legal support of four attorneys,

growth, the Ruhmann Law Firm has also

Sun City and is licensed in Arizona, New

the Ruhmann Law Firm’s main goal is, “to

recently added on Social Security and

Mexico and Texas. “Most plaintiff firms in

help people that have been injured get

Disability claims. “We aim to continue

El Paso that have more than one attorney

back on their feet,” explained Ruhmann.

helping local El Pasoans with any personal

are from other cities,” shared Charles J.

“When someone is injured, the results of

injury claims while adding other area of

Ruhmann, IV, attorney, founder and graduate

such an incident can be overwhelming or

claims and litigation to our firm.”

of Baylor University and St. Mary’s University

insurmountable, at times. The typical domino

School of Law. “We are a local firm where

effect that can occur, for instance in a car

Ruhmann Law Firm

what you see is what you get.”

wreck, is the individual can be seriously hurt

5915 Silver Springs Drive Bldg. 1

requiring ongoing extensive medical care,

El Paso, TX 79912

Specializing in cases involving motor vehicle

lose their vehicle and sometimes even lose

(915) 845-4529

accidents, wrongful death, premises liability,

their job or, tragically, a loved one, all from

Toll Free: (855) 394-4529

workplace injuries, employment litigation,

one event. I help put the pieces of their life

www.ruhmannlawfirm.com

among other various personal injury cases,

back together. My creed in this life is that if

the Ruhmann Law Firm seeks to couple both

I have the ability and means to help people,

experience and skill when fighting for the best

then I have a moral obligation to do so.”

possible outcome for their clients. “We want to help those individuals that did not have a

80 | SPECIAL ADVERTISING

By: CANDACE VASQUEZ photographed by: ROBERT CORRAL

MARCO RODRIGUEZ IMAGING EL PASO “We are very good at treating the patients with the utmost care, and making sure they are very comfortable.”

Marco Rodriguez is the billing director for Imaging El Paso and has gotten there through his dedication to the clinic. In 2004, Rodriguez started off in the clinic’s customer service, until he graduated and moved up to become who he is today.

Rodriguez describes his position as coding and decoding the medical history of each patient. He is able to get to know them as he updates their medical life, and teach others to do so throughout the office.

While maturing with the clinic, his integrity has deepened with a realization of the lives of others at stake. Rodriguez states, “We’re all a team here and our goal is to provide the best health care for everyone who comes through the doors.” Rodriguez is in constant communication with everyone in the clinic to ensure all the reports, data, tests, updates, diagnosis and procedures are processed in a timely manner to deliver the final report, charge and bill wherever is necessary to send to the clinic’s medical records.

What was most important for Rodriguez to note is Imaging El Paso’s involvement in the male and female community.

Imaging El Paso provides the same type of digital diagnostics and radiology care for men as they do for women. Rodriguez described how important men’s health is, and how taking care of your body and health can be beneficial for any type of family dynamic.

The most important aspect of the clinic’s function is its patient relations that start with the staff. Rodriguez states, “We are very good at treating the patients with the utmost care, and making sure they are very comfortable.” Rodriguez describes himself as an intricate part of the system and helps build on every patient’s experience from the initial order to dealing with the insurance company. Rodriguez’s job is to try to make sure that the patient leaves happy and healthy.

Imaging El Paso 2930 N Stanton 79902 (915) 545-2273 www.imagingelpaso.com By: LAURA WERTHMANN photographed by: TOMMIE MORELOS

SPECIAL ADVERTISING | 81

MICHAEL DAYOUB THE GENTLEMEN’S UNION A place where you can walk in for a professional cut, shave and wardrobe and walk out with a new look, from head to toe.

Stemming

from

his

well-known

family

business

downtown, The Bargain Shop, Michael Dayoub ventured to bring his eclectic background and stylistic experience to Kern Place with The Gentlemen’s Union. A place where you can walk in for a professional cut, shave and wardrobe and walk out with a new look, from head to toe.

The Bargain Shop mainly holds affordable formal wear for men, downtown, but Dayoub decided to bring something different to the table. The retail section of The Gentlemen’s Union contains handpicked casual wear and formal wear that caters to every El Paso man. Their outfit span is endless, working with weddings, professionals, casual clothes, and accessories. Offering exclusive brands and styles, The Gentlemen’s Union is not just the only place in town to offer custom-made clothing from Italy, as well as custom-made bowties and neckties, but also offers menswear at prices that can’t be beat. The Gentlemen’s Union is a stepping-stone for further concepts and furthering awareness and support for the Mey A. Dayoub Memorial Foundation. A direct charity being started in honor of Michael Dayoub’s mother who passed away from lung cancer two years ago. It is no wonder why the motto here is: “Changing people’s lives through fashion.”

The Gentlemen’s Union also holds a dual license for a barbershop and salon, creating a stylistic experience for women as well. Exclusive hair and shaving products is yet another reason why The Gentlemen’s Union stands out from the rest. The barbershop, salon and store complement each other as guests are greeted with a welcoming atmosphere. Everyone is personable, eager to know your name and ready to give you the best experience possible.

The Gentlemen’s Union 2717 N Stanton St. (915) 533-8989 www.gentlemensunion.com The Bargain Shop 204 E. San Antonio (915) 532-7411 MDZFashion.com 82 | SPECIAL ADVERTISING

By: LAURA WERTHMANN

In the world of image and artistry in Texas stands a hairdresser whose ever-evolving ambitions call El Paso home. From a young boy Hunter Quartermane recalled wishing to be two things, a hairdresser and a country music artist. It would appear the first goal took precedence, however the love of music is ever present in his surroundings and associations. “Becoming an independent salon owner was more of a necessity than a life goal, finding my concepts of culture and community were so vastly different than those I stood beside,” says Quartermane.

Over the past nearly 25 years, Quartermane has seen all aspects of the hairdressing world -- from being an assistant, to independent artist, to owning several salons, to his latest endeavor developing talent

and

managing

guiding

their

careers. “It is my wish to expose the raw little known talents I come across in my travels and day-to-day work,” Quartermane states.

Standing with Quartermane are two prime examples of his new associations. Matthew Abraham is no novice to the image world. He focuses on makeup artistry and has had positions and worked on numerous celebrities in film and television in L.A. His passion can be witnessed in his applications. He studies the face as if looking at a blank canvas ready to create yet another unforgettable work of art. David Paul, whose unique style and work ethic drives him to the top of the charts among the pageant scene and modeling community, is another. When not laboring away on his clients, he is on set at a photo shoot or videotaping. “It’s my desire now as the Chief Artistic Director of Quartermane Salon to find these artists and expose them to the world around them, to help them reach never before realized dreams through community and teamwork.”

Quartermane Salon 5411 N. Mesa, Suite 13C (915) 581-1227 quartermanesalon.com

Photographed by: LUI CARDENAS

SPECIAL ADVERTISING | 83

June, 2014

84

www.thecitymagazineelp.com

June, 2014

Positively Gary Sotir Passionate General Manager About El Paso KTSM/KDBC | By: LAUREN MACIAS-CERVANTES photography by: RYAN HALL | “Find something you really love to do and find

college ball and wanted to go back and coach

The broadcasting career that started in the

a way to make a living out of it. There’s too

the team at my old high school.” He started

city of his birth has now taken Gary through

many people that dread going to their jobs

on his master’s degree to get the process

five states and six cities. He’s been General

every day,” that’s the advice Gary Sotir shares

started, but was lured away by that first job

Manager at KTSM now six years, but it isn’t

often. He says he hasn’t dreaded going to

selling business forms. “My brother-in-law

his first time in El Paso. Gary was here in the

work since he started working in broadcasting

had just gotten that job and it seemed like a

90s for three years working at KDBC and

32 years ago. “I’m fortunate to be in an

good idea at the time.”

KTSM; it was family that drew him away.

industry that I enjoy so much, it doesn’t feel like work,” he adds. His list of unpleasant jobs includes his first job selling business forms and his job selling answering machines.

Gary was one of the youngest General

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Managers in the country when he landed his first job as a station boss at age 38. It was a journey that the Cincinnati native started with Taft Broadcasting when a friend of his suggested he apply for a radio sales job. The company housed two radio stations and one television station. It didn’t take Gary long to realize broadcasting is where he wanted to focus his career and soon see his career path. “I knew that, in addition to sales, I liked the news side and the promotional side,” he

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said. “When you become a GM, you get to be a part of everything; that combination, sales, news and promotions, is what attracted me.”

Ask Gary if he always wanted to be in TV and he quickly says no. “I wanted to be a high school baseball coach,” he said. “I played

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His connection to the city remained and

fact the station now features a daily segment

when he was able to, and the opportunity

in the newscasts called “Positively El Paso”

was available, his decision to return was an

because he thought the city had many untold

easy choice. When asked about the most

good stories to tell.

challenging part of his job, Gary says it’s how to keep 95 people with 95 ideas pulling in the

Being a GM is a tough job, but Gary describes

same direction and creating an environment

himself as a news junkie and feels no need to

where they can do their best work. “I look for

focus on anything else. “I have no hobbies,

qualities in people you can’t teach like work

I don’t want any,” said the Cornell University

ethic and integrity. I know some people have

Business Management Graduate. “I don’t

their eyes on bigger markets and we’ll help

like other things as much as I do working.” He

them get there; all I’m looking for is 100%

does enjoy beaches, is loyal to a few sports

commitment and dedication in the years they

teams and lives by some words of wisdom

are with us,” he said.

from American author, business consultant and motivational speaker Jason Jennings

El Paso wasn’t love at first sight. “I remember

including his definition of leadership: “Taking

flying in and seeing a lot of desert and brown

people where they say they want to go, but

rock, where I was used to seeing green

won’t necessarily go there on their own.”

trees and foliage. I couldn’t imagine living and working here, but that quickly changed

As for thoughts on the Sun City now - Sotir

once I started seeing all parts of the city and

says, “I like downtown redevelopment. That

meeting the people,” he recalled. Now he

part of town needs to thrive, that’s where it

touts about El Paso every chance he gets. In

all starts.”

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June, 2014

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November, 2013

88

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November, 2013

89

June, 2014

El Paso’s Nolan Richardson | By: MEAGAN KINLEY |

90

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June, 2014

will be honored at the Naismith Memorial Basketball Hall of Fame

M

any people do not know that the origins of basketball really began in a small gym in Springfield, Massachusetts in 1891. James Naismith, a Canadian, physical education teacher introduced the game to his class of 18 young men in the gym of a YMCA training

school. The day was December 21, 1891 and the objective was to throw a round rubber ball into a hoop tacked to a nearby balcony. From that chilly December lesson, the game quickly spread; and today the sport has touched hundreds of thousands of lives from the elementary level to collegiate and professional teams. With such popularity and so many stories of honor, excellence, and excitement to tell, it’s no wonder that the idea to start a museum to house all of these stories was dreamed up – and from this idea, the Naismith Memorial Basketball Hall of Fame was born.

The vision of a museum to honor athletes of the sport really began at the 1936 Berlin Olympics after the United States defeated Canada in the gold medal game, 19-8. It took time and a lot of hard work but years later, The Naismith Memorial Basketball Hall of Fame in Springfield, Massachusetts began honoring athletes from the year 1959 and on. Beginning in a small office on the campus of Springfield College in Massachusetts, the original Hall of Fame opened its doors on February 17, 1968. Fast-forward to today and the Naismith Memorial Basketball Hall of Fame has celebrated more then 50 years of excellence. With over 40,000 square feet of stories and history and nearly 300 inductees, this beautiful museum truly carries the spirit of the sport. After years of growth and change, the Naismith Memorial Basketball Hall of Fame is honored to induct El Paso’s own Nolan Richardson into the Basketball Hall of Fame.

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91

where are they now?

June, 2014

Richardson got his start as a star football and basketball player for Bowie High School on El Paso’s south side and went onto play for Don Haskins at Texas Western. After graduating, Richardson took a job and coached for Bowie High for 10 years – posting a 180-90 record.

As his career blossomed, he was offered the opportunity to coach at Western Texas College in Snyder, Texas where he and his team won 101 games in three seasons. In 1980, the team went all the way to the college national championship with a 37-0 record. With this defeat, Richardson had gotten the attention of the University of Tulsa and they immediately asked him to coach and the next year in 1981, he took Tulsa to the NIT and won. Within five seasons he had taken the school to the NCAA Tournament three times and to the NIT twice.

With his continued success, the University of Arkansas, a Division I school in the South Eastern Conference offered him a job. As Head Coach of the Razorbacks, he took the team to the NCAA Championships, going as far as the Final Four and Elite Eight from 1989 to 1991. With Richardson guiding them, the Razorbacks won the NCAA Basketball Championships in 1993-1994 and took runner-up the following season.

Overall Richardson ended his prestigious career having coached 22 seasons, having taken and won a junior college national championship, as well as a NIT and NCAA National Championship. “I’m pretty happy.

Some people said I should have gone in sooner but I don’t care about any of that ... I’m just happy that I’m alive and my family can enjoy this.

I’ve had so many people help me reach this point. The Hall of Fame is a family thing and all my coaches and teacher … just all the people who helped me are part of the family,” said Richardson.

This award and recognition will place Richardson alongside other former UTEP Miner stars, including Nate Archibald and his former coach, Don Haskins. Now 72, Richardson is involved with various charities and has raised more than $1.5 million in the name of cancer research in memory of his daughter Yvonne who fell to the disease in 1987.

The ceremony will be conducted August 8, 2014 in Springfield, Massachusetts

where

Nolan

Richardson will finally have his name in the hallowed halls of the Naismith Memorial Basketball Hall of Fame.

92

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June, 2014

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94

www.thecitymagazineelp.com Bed of Crosses, 2008, Mixed media on canvas

artist spotlight

June, 2014

Native El Pasoan Paints a Good Name For Our City Throughout The Nation

C

arlos Servando Hernandez has

| By: JOSE SOTO |

a severe injury to thank for his

a stamping validity that I had only previously

stellar and impressive career as

felt in sports,” he said.

an artist. He saw himself kicking

a soccer ball around the field for a living but

Upon graduating, Servando moved from San

instead, he finds himself submerged in a

Francisco to Venice Beach. The Californian

myriad of artistic ventures. A native El Pasoan,

incitation

Carlos Servando Hernandez now resides in

aesthetics as an artist, relying on the nature

Austin, endowing the city with his various

of both cities to convey it in his projects.

forms of art. Skilled in oil painting, audio,

He inadvertently got into the artistic field of

video and drawing, Servando is an exemplary

music while working part time at a recording

example of multi-talent and diverse aptness.

studio, assembling Pro Tool rigs for recording

But the artistic platform wasn’t his inception.

bands such as Tricky and No Doubt. He began

proved

to

contribute

to

his

recording his own music on his spare time. A Sports was Servandos original calling. He

move to New York in 2006 became integral

played for El Paso High and traveled with

to Servando after helping teach a summer

Santos, a local soccer club. In 1991, Servando

course there. The drastic change of scenery

was chosen to compete at the Olympic Trials

and pace drove Servando to further develop

in Colorado Springs. That would have been

his artistic abilities. “New York became the

an incredible life-altering experience for him,

biggest muse -- New York City is the greatest

but fate had other set of plans. Servando

muse of all. It provided so much history

suffered an ankle injury that took him out

and everything from beauty and majesty to

of the contention and, eventually, out of the

fine arts program at The University of North

tragedy and dread,” Servando said. “Once

world of sports.

Texas. He graduated with a BFA in Painting

again, my aesthetic and approach changed

and Drawing in 1996 and moved onward to

dramatically and I pushed myself to work

“I was never the same after it. I was a

The San Francisco Art Institute, where he

on a much larger scale.” He continued to

communications major at that time, with

experimented and discovered new venues

work as a freelance video editor for major

no clear academical intent. With soccer no

or art. He was accepted to the New Genres

advertisement agencies, but found himself

longer being an option for the future, my only

MFA program and won the best of show at

working more and making less art. The

other viable interest was visual art,” said

the MFA Graduate Exhibit at Fort Mason,

financial demand of New York kept Servando

Hernandez. Having always had a penchant

which was pivotal for Hernandez. “Being

working vigorously and eventually drove him

for drawing and sketching, he enrolled in the

recognized by faculty and working artists was

to opt for a move to Austin, where he could

www.thecitymagazineelp.com

95

June, 2014

The Congregation, Oil on canvas

Embrace With Caution, 2004, Oil on canvas

The Shield of Achilles, 2013, Oil on canvas 96

In Stratum, 2012, Oil on canvas www.thecitymagazineelp.com

artist spotlight

June, 2014

calm the pace of life and focus more on

countries simultaneously. Juárez was

his art. “I have been in Austin for one

just as much an influence as El Paso

year now,” said Servando. “I am half

was,” Servando said. “Growing up

way through my next series of large oil

in such a deeply cultural place like El

paintings, working with sound design

Paso, with all of its pride and history,

again and Jim continuing to freelance

it’s inevitable for it to have such a huge

as a video editor. It was difficult to leave

impact on me and how I look at the

New York after four years, but at the

world. It inspired me to branch out and

same time it was somewhat a relief.

live in other cities and witness other

Austin has been a perfect transitional

cultures. It also provided a darker

place to take a deep breath, be closer

side of reality which I have constantly

to home and contemplate the setting

leaned to for inspiration in art.”

of my next chapter.”

Many artists like Servando venture out dispersed

of El Paso to construct their projects,

his art throughout a lot of California,

but it’s an honor for them to make a

New York and Austin, his hometown

name of our eclectic city. “El Paso is

doesn’t stray far from Servandos

my family. They are the foundation

artistic notions. “El Paso is home. It’s

that provided me the confidence and

where everything stems. As an artist,

support to continue to take chances in

El Paso provided such a unique cultural

life and art. As long as I can make them

landscape. Most people I meet do not

proud I will continue on this path.”

Although

Servando

has

realize that we grew up in two different

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97

Building Better

FATHERS | By: ANDRÉS RODRÍGUEZ |

98

b u i l d i n g B e t t e r Fat h e r s

June, 2014

O

utside the small East Side church of

rewarding because you don’t see kids getting

“It’s been a change,” Edith Barron says.

Jezreel, Gilberto Barron says he’s

hurt. Instead you see men coming in asking

“When a father becomes involved, it

nervous about getting up on the

for help. They don’t like to do that. That to me

strengthens family values … He gets home

stage. He is set to cap off the night’s

is rewarding.”

and he’s happy and willing to try and listen and that makes a difference.”

graduating festivities by singing to his wife.

The classes are offered at the Child Crisis He loves her and his four children, Barron

Center, Jezreel Church, Esperanza en Cristo

EFFECT educator Daniel Moreno, a pastor at

says, but as a man he admits he finds it hard

Church, Rogelio Sanchez State Jail, El Paso

Jezreel, says he was happy seeing his class

to show affection.

Academy Charter High School and Moye

finish the program. After handing out the

Elementary. They’re available in English and

diplomas, Moreno had the graduates recite a

in Spanish.

resolution. The eight men repeated after him

“I just want to be there for them,” he says.

to be faithful to their wives and loving to their

“My family is big, so it can get difficult but I’ve learned a lot about myself and about my

Barron says the program has helped him

family and want to keep on learning.”

control his frustration and listen to his

children.

family’s concerns. “It’s helped me talk to my

“They were happy and I think that this is a

Barron is part of the third graduating class of

wife and show her that I love her,” he says.

great motivator even if it seems like a small

the Fatherhood EFFECT Program, a 6-week

“I now ask her and my children about their

accomplishment,” Moreno says.

workshop offered by the Child Crisis Center

day and at first they were like ‘what’s wrong

of El Paso that teaches dads how to be better

with you?’ but they started opening up and

For more information about the program

family men. They plan on offering the 6-week

talking more to me.”

and how to enroll, visit childcrisiselp.org or call 562-7955.

follow up program later this year.

Henry Potter, who also graduated from the Tonight, at the church where they met for six

course, says that it’s never too late to learn

Fridays, eight men are graduating from the

how to be a more caring father.

program. It’s a small gathering with food and live music where family members clap as the men

“I learned a lot even though my children

walk up to the stage and receive their diploma.

are now all grown up, but it helps me interact with my nephews,”

Fatherhood EFFECT took off in February with a

he says. “I’ve learned to keep

$1.2 million grant from the Texas Department

promises

of Family and Protective Services. “Since, 23

They won’t believe anything

men have graduated,” Russel Booth, one of

you say if you break them.

four program educators, says.

It’s best to explain why you

with

your

kids.

couldn’t keep the promise.”

EFFECT follows the 24/7 Dad curriculum, developed

by

the

National

Fatherhood

Gilberto

Barron’s

wife,

Initiative. This includes covering aspects of

Edith Barron, says he’s

self-awareness, caring for the self, and skills

now a more attentive father

in fathering, parenting and relationships.

and husband. She sees him making an effort to

“We’re trying to build up a community, a

be there for his kids,

brotherhood,” Booth says.

asks her about her day and helps out

Jose Alamillo, an EFFECT educator, calls

around the house.

the sessions half class, half support group.

Alamillo has worked with child wellness and protective services for 16 years. “It’s definitely been a change because here parents come to us,” he says. “It’s very www.thecitymagazineelp.com

99

June, 2014

! d a D , s k n a Th IN | By: ROB

100

NILAND

|

www.thecitymagazineelp.com

A

pa r e n t i n g

June, 2014

s we take a moment to

are active in their children’s classrooms and

other. Of course, what works for one father

celebrate Dad this month,

make time to attend school programs, field

is not the answer for another, so men have to

we are probably all thinking

trips, and teacher conferences. Dads of the

consider their own family’s needs above any

of ways to make him feel

new millennium wear many hats: working

standards set by society, the media, or even

special and appreciated on

dad, stay-home dad, coach, tutor, mentor,

history. Often the best role model for the

Father’s Day (Sunday, June

disciplinarian, cook, and chauffeur are just a

modern dad is his own dad who has ‘been

15). There are many ways to celebrate: a

few of the responsibilities placed on fathers.

there, done that’ and is probably very happy

backyard barbecue, handmade cards, and

However, they are not always given the

to share experiences and advice.

maybe the opportunity to sleep past 6 a.m.

same credit as us moms for the balancing

before the festivities begin. Every family has

act required to be so many things to so many

As parents, many of us have the special role

its own special way of showing Dad how

people all at the same time.

of being both parents and children. We have our fathers to thank for both the sacrifices

loved he is, but perhaps one of the most meaningful things we can do is simply tell

Fatherhood is becoming a more complex role,

they made for us and the lessons taught to

him how much he means to us.

and in one man’s words, they are “a severely

us while growing up. We also have our own

misunderstood bunch.” Fathers don’t stand

children for whom we make sacrifices as well

Modern dads are more involved than ever

on the sidelines of their children’s lives as

as attempt to impart a few words of wisdom.

in their children’s lives. Many fathers help

supportive spectators; they are active and

It is in taking on the role of parent that we

with homework, coach soccer practice, and

devoted participants. Determining how to

begin to appreciate and respect our own in

read bedtime stories. Parks across town

have fun with their children while maintaining

a new way. So this Father’s Day, remind the

are filled with dads playing on the jungle

the role of authority figure is not an easy

children in your life to tell their father how

gym alongside their children or sharing

task, and society is quick to admonish a

special he is to them. And you do the same!

some pointers in a game of catch. Dads

father who errs too far to one side or the

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101

June, 2014

Finding the Perfect

Father’s Day Gift | By: JOLENE KEIPP |

Shopping for the man in your life can prove to be a challenge on any holiday but for some reason Father’s Day is when creativity wanes significantly. By the time the June holiday approaches school has been out for at least a couple weeks which means no “cutesy” milk carton basket or Popsicle stick creation courtesy of the kiddos. Put down “#1 Dad” themed tie and think outside the box.

102

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Fat h e r s ’ s d ay g i f t s

June, 2014

S

and

customize your trip to ensure that Father’s

thoughtful goes a long way. Think

Day is spent on the course amongst today’s

about the dad your celebrating.

golf legends. Time is of the essence so if

What does he like? What’s his

you can’t manage to book it this year

go-to drink? If his preference for beer is a

you can get in early and book him for

German Hefeweizen then head over to

next year’s U.S. Open being held

Specs and grab a couple different selections.

in University Place, Washington

Throw in some Brats, sauerkraut, soft

in the scenic Puget Sound June

omething

surprising

pretzels and mustard and you’ve

15-21st. You can go to www.usga.

just created a one-of-a-kind German-

org to look over ticket prices and

themed Beer Basket. You can go

begin tailoring travel packages. Make it

online and order a stein or beer boot

a boy’s trip or bring along the family, chances

with the date or family name to

are you’ll enjoy it as much as he does.

complete the personalization of the gift. If it’s grilling or smoking cigars

El Paso is changing and the buzz is contagious.

make a package out of it! Give him

If you want to get him something that’ll rock

everything he needs to completely

his world than go local and get season tickets

enjoy himself. It’s thoughtful

for the El Paso Chihuahuas. There

and it shows him everything

are one-year, three-year and five-year

has been taken care of.

options to choose from and plenty of sections to suit his style. The amenities

Most men don’t sit around

for

scrapbooking and their smart

Meet the Team events, participating

phones most likely double as a

in batting practice, early admission to

photo album so why not create

select games and tons more. Season

one for them. Everyone has a

tickets are a great way to entertain out-

box of photos sitting in a closet

of-town guests, spend time with your

somewhere

family and catch some El Paso pride. Go

and

absolutely

season

ticket

holders

include

no time to do anything with them. Riffle

to www.epchihuahuas.com for season

through the box and make him a scrapbook

ticket information. Throw in a hat and

of a camping trip, a birthday party or even a

you’ve just given him the opportunity

“Blooper Album” with silly pictures. If this

to be a part of El Paso history!

sounds daunting, get the kids involved. Stop in at Hobby Lobby to stock up on supplies

Sometimes the perception of dads can

and let the kids caption the photos. The

be a comedic one. With commercials

more involved everyone becomes the more

and

enthusiastic they’ll be come Father’s Day.

punchlines it’s hard to remember that

Creating something with photos, keepsakes,

they are human after all. Most likely

of certificates from school that he hasn’t

they are hardworking people trying

seen in years will score points for you in

hard to protect and provide for their

the “original” category and shows that you

families. Playing the role of the heavy

love where he’s come from and value those

and hero can be a difficult line to walk,

memories just as much as he does.

so let’s get the day that’s dedicated to

T.V.

shows

using

them

as

them right.

We’ve done the sweet and nostalgic now let’s do the fantastic. If Dad is into golf than look into the U.S. Open in Pinehurst, North Carolina. The tournament runs June 9th through the 22nd which allows you to 103

etiquette

June, 2014

Dads are Important too, So Let Yours Know | By: JOANN WARDY |

I couldn’t help observing the noticeable difference in sales between Mother’s Day and Father’s Day. Somehow, fathers get the short end of the stick. We must not forget the importance of acknowledging our fathers on their day. Here are suggestions: • A letter expressing love and appreciation.

• Take him out to dinner.

• Buy him a special book.

• Equipment for his favorite sport.

• Tools if he is into them.

• Tickets to his favorite entertainment.

• Big hug, big kiss and “I love you, Dad.” • An afternoon with just your dad.

Have a wonderful Father’s Day!

Here at M!X, we have every luxurious service you could ever want or ask for. Our hair salon, nail salon, spa and sauna, and third story restaurant and viewing terrace are all meant for one thing, making you feel extraordinary. Don’t delay and call today and book your appointment now!

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105

L I F E

June, 2014

The Balancing Act of

106

| By: AUSTIN SAVAGE |

www.thecitymagazineelp.com

June, 2014

The clichés and categorizations have been around for as long as anybody can remember.

In fact it is nearly impossible to spend any significant amount of time in the social network sphere and not encounter some sort of meme or posting regarding the nature of work and the pursuit of happiness. The familiar refrains of simplistic inspiration ring through all corridors of the internet. It’s impossible to not be on the grid and encounter the familiar refrains:

“Do what you love and you’ll never work a day in your life.”

“Let the beauty of what you love be what you do.”

F

lowing and impactful as these phrases

considering what one should be doing with their

may be, perhaps a bit of brutality is

life. As a result many poor souls find themselves

necessary in order to honestly assess the

compelled more towards the exertion end of the

state of the modern working American

work/relaxation spectrum and thus pursuing and

man, so here is a brutal truth for many of

maintaining some stressful and unhealthy lives.

the working men today: It’s really difficult to make a living doing what you want to do.

Finding a balance is undoubtedly a difficult task, but like most daunting challenges, the most

Beyond the complications of first determining

effective way of reaching accomplishment is

exactly what it is that one wants to do with their

by first setting out with a plan. This plan should

life, there is the difficulty of balancing that with the

contain a few vital elements. Most notably:

responsibilities and necessities that arise when

www.thecitymagazineelp.com

107

June, 2014

1. Define your non-negotiable boundaries.

life. There is nothing better than friends to

This seems fairly simple, but at what point

celebrate and soul mates to console.

must you make distinctions about how far you are willing to go regarding work. Is it

4. Find a hobby.

impeding into family time? Is it affecting

So much of modernity is about being

the plans you had previously established?

inundated constantly, whether it is data

Is it starting to effect meaningful and vital

from the phone or computer or the endless

relationships and interactions?

stream of images that project out to us from the large plasma screens in the man cave

These boundaries can often be impeded upon

that we often mistake passive bombardment

very subtly in other ways as well. You can

with relaxation. This can easily be rectified by

see massive changes in the quality of diet,

picking up a hobby that challenges. Try your

amount of time spent exercising, and in most

hand at painting, learn those few basic guitar

cases interference with regular and healthy

chords you need in order to play 80% of the

sleep patterns. Establish these boundaries

Bob Dylan catalogue and impress your friends.

early and do not let the occupation impede

Take advantage of El Paso’s mountains by

without impunity into the other territories of

going on hikes or make your way down to

your life that lead to health and longevity. Of

a Chihuahuas game and engage yourself by

course these non-negotiable boundaries can

keeping in an accurate box score in the team

also be avoided if men make sure to:

provided program. Just make sure that the hobby forces you to actively participate.

2. Allocate your time properly.

This allocation superseded simple daily

5. Meet new people.

planning and enters into the realm of life

Perhaps one of the most frustrating aspects

organizing. Arrange a date with a loved

of the internet is that it provides a vast

one far in advance so you will always have

opportunity for engagement and interaction

something to look forward to. Find one

than previously existed. If the social scene

exciting thing a week to do so that you have

isn’t your thing then don’t be hesitant to

something to excitedly talk about when you

climb online and interact with others on sites

head back into your work week.

that can pique your interest and stoke your passions. Online interaction allows us to

108

3. Nurture your support system

make connections as well as employ our wit,

Having a cadre of people in your life that

wisdom, and charm. If these online bonds

understand your long term needs and short

stretch into physical interaction then so be it,

term desires will always provide you with a

but there is literally a whole world waiting at

healthy sense of balance and value in your

your fingertips to be explored. www.thecitymagazineelp.com

June, 2014

www.thecitymagazineelp.com

109

Hidden

G

110

ms

June, 2014

June, 2014

Hamburger Inn O | Written and photographed by: VALENTIN SANDOVAL |

n a late Friday night, approximately 10 years ago, I remember sauntering on in to Hamburger Inn on Yarbrough with friends after an evening of vitality

having its way on our young budding spirits, looking

for the most inspiring connection to the night. In other words, we’ve had some drinks now we need either a good burger or menudo.

Other occasions, I’ve gone in with my mom and aunt that came in from Juárez to visit and we’d stop by there for ‘caldo de res’ or tacos. At that point, with my mom and aunt, I’d be introduced to a word that would have resonance throughout my lifetime. ‘Sason.’ It’s one of those Mexican colloquialisms that seems to have morphed through language and phonetic connection, in attempting to describe something that has yet to be described. And somehow, like the intrigue within rumor, you look to unofficially coin a phrase that is not founded upon one hoping to be the father behind this word, but rather a need to connect to family and friends and express this

Coral Dominguez and her mom have been working the service and

wonderful undefined feeling that comes as a result of the food and

management side of the business for 15 years. This confluence of

the flavor. It’s like using the term soul food. It’s the cook putting his

loyalty for so many years has yielded a chemistry that is bursting with

heartbeat into the heat of the fire cooking up the dish at hand. We’d

their establishment’s ebb and flow. “Yes, we have people that were

sit there and quietly enjoy our company while they caught up on the

from El Paso and now live in Denver, Dallas, and Phoenix that return

family affairs, ‘chisme.’

to the Inn when they’re home from out-of-town,” states Coral.

The range and reason for experiencing Hamburger Inn are vast and

They’ve established a unique legacy here in the borderland. They

each person has their own set of reasons. The common ground to

also own Lucky Cafe on Alameda. It has the same style, open 24

these reasons usually centers around one thing, solid El Paso Mexican

hours a day, and is rich in ‘sason’ that makes the dining experience

food. It isn’t the bigger Mexican restaurants that people tend to

memorable at any time of the day or night. Hamburger Inn maintains

frequent on weekend nights. Nor is it confined and pegged to being a

a unique diner niche. At times, with respect to our desert landscape,

hole-in-the-wall, hangover food joint. It has your ‘corrida’ option, while

it tends to feel like an east coast diner. One can go to the bar top

some of the favorites tend to be the hamburger steak, the burger, and

dining area and sit next to a random stranger drinking their coffee and

the menudo. Within a competitive culture where everyone’s moms,

playing crossword puzzles with the focus of a chess player pondering

tias, or abuelas, can cook the best, Hamburger Inn holds respect and

the best next move. In this case the next best move is diving into your

is frequented 24 hours a day. That is another unique aspect to the

tacos. They are bountiful with lettuce and tomato, yet rich with meat

place, that it’s in elite company with regards to locally owned places

in a homemade tortilla. With an open kitchen, you can watch Juan

that are open around the clock, servicing all kinds of needs for the

Bustos work away at his centerpiece of food. He makes sure all the

pungent salsa to wake one up and prep them for the meal to come.

‘francesitos’ for the menudo are toasted just right. The burger meat sizzles as his spatula presses down upon it, making sure the interior

Orlando Fonseca, who recently passed away, had been the owner

is just right. You can converse freely and listen to the rich laugh next

for 40 years. Now his wife Cristina Fonseca runs both, Hamburger

to you, as you take in this borderland succulent that is Hamburger Inn.

Inn and Lucky Cafe. Another charm to the place is that chef Juan Bustos has been polishing and working at his craft for 30 years. www.thecitymagazineelp.com

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Sauce it Up with

Scrumptious r e m m Su

Q B B | By: MEAGAN KINLEY |

112

www.thecitymagazineelp.com

FOOD

June, 2014

Slow Cooked Pulled Pork Serves 6 If you have a crock-pot, this recipe will revolutionize the way you make BBQ. Not only is it easy, but also the tenderness of the meat will ensure that this dish will reappear again and again on your food-planning calendar.

r umme s h t i W here, y l l a n fi e to it’s tim ut whip o ill and the gr your all of te BBQ favori ies. To r o s s e acc ir me fla o s d d a r Que’s to you oire, repert some e r a e r he lickin’ r e g n i f s that recipe re to are su ou and y e v a h uests your g the left in st of sweete omas. food c

Ingredients • 1 5-pound pork shoulder (remove twine or netting) • 2 cups barbecue sauce • 2 medium yellow onions, thinly sliced • 4 medium garlic cloves, thinly sliced • 1 cup chicken stock • 1 tbsp. kosher salt • 1 tbsp. chili powder • 1 tbsp. packed dark brown sugar • 1/2 tbsp. ground cumin 1. Place the garlic and onions in the slow cooker and pour the chicken stock in. Mix sugar, chili powder, measured salt, cumin, and cinnamon in a small bowl. Pat the pork dry. Rub the spice mixture all over the pork and place the meat on top of the onions and garlic. Cook and cover until the pork is fork tender, about 6-8 hours on high or 8-10 hours on low depending on your preference.

2. When the pork is done cooking, turn off the slow cooker and remove the pork. Set a finemesh strainer over a medium heatproof bowl. Pour the onion mixture from the slow cooker through the strainer and return the solids to the slow cooker. Set the strained liquid aside.

3. If the pork has a bone, remove it. Using two forks, shred the meat into bite-sized pieces, discard fat. Return the shredded meat to the slow cooker, add the barbecue sauce and mix.

Taste and season with salt as needed, then serve.

Ingredients • 50 chicken wings • Apple cider vinegar (Enough to cover the wings) • 4 tbsp. kosher salt • 11/2 tbsp. ground • 1 tbsp. Louisiana Hot Sauce • Lemon pepper to taste • Black pepper to taste • Apple juice (for spritzing) 1. Remove wing tips then place wings into a large stockpot.

Lemon Pepper Wings Serves 8 If you love hot wings, the impeccable zesty taste of these puppies will put some spring in your step!

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2. Pour enough apple cider vinegar so that the wings are completely covered.

3. Add 2 tbsp. of kosher salt and 1 1/2 tbsp. of freshly ground black pepper to the pot.

4. Bring the wings with the vinegar to a boil, reduce heat and let simmer for 10 minutes.

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FOOD

June, 2014

5. Remove wings from pot and place on tin foil - all with the same side facing up.

6. Pour in half the bottle of Louisiana Hot Sauce, generously cover them in lemon pepper, and then sprinkle a light coating of kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper.

7. Flip all wings and repeat Step 6 on the other side.

8. Grill wings on stabilized low heat, approximately 275-300 degrees.

9. Place the wings on the grill, making sure they are over any direct flames.

10. Fill a clean plastic spray bottle with 50/50 of apple juice and apple cider vinegar.

11. After the wings have cooked about an hour, spritz them with the mixture and reapply more lemon pepper. If you like them hot, add more hot sauce.

12. At the 1 1/2 hour mark, flip all the wings, spritz them with the juice/vinegar mixture, and reapply more lemon pepper.

13. Continue to cook on low heat, spritzing and reapplying lemon pepper about every half hour, for a total time of about 3 hours, or until they begin to crisp.

14. To increase crispiness, you can increase the heat to 350 at the 3 hour mark, but make sure to check the meat against the bone to make sure you’re not drying it out.

15. After the wings have cooked for a total of about 3-4 hours, remove from heat and allow time to cool before serving.

Make your own Sauces!

Have you ever wanted to wow guests and family with recipes that cause guests to beg for the recipe? Well now’s your chance—with a little know how, your delicious BBQ will go to the next level with this personal touch.

Beal Street’s Best BBQ Sauce Serves 10-20 Ingredients • 1 cup chopped onion • 2 tbsp. vegetable oil • 1/4 cup packed dark brown sugar • 1/2 tsp. ground celery seed • 2 cloves garlic, smashed • 1/2 cup apple cider vinegar

South Carolina Mustard Sauce

• 1/4 cup steak sauce

Serves 10-20

• 1/4 cup Worcestershire sauce • 3 cups ketchup

Ingredients

• 3 tbsp. molasses

• 3/4 cup yellow mustard

• 1-2 tsp. liquid smoke

• 1 1/2 tbsp. unsalted butter

• 3 tbsp. yellow mustard

• 3/4 cup apple cider vinegar

• Kosher salt to taste

• 2 tsp. Louisiana hot sauce • 1 1/4 tbsp. fresh ground black pepper

1. Heat the vegetable oil in a pot over medium heat. Add

• 1 tbsp. light brown sugar

the garlic and onion and cook until the onion is golden,

• 2 tsp. salt

approximately 6-7 minutes. Stir in the ketchup, steak sauce,

• 2 tbsp. Worcestershire sauce

1-cup water, brown sugar, the vinegar, Worcestershire sauce, molasses, mustard, celery seed and salt.

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1. Combine all ingredients in a saucepan. Whisk occasionally

2. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to medium low and

while simmering for 20-30 minutes. Allow time to cool

simmer until onion is tender, approximately 15 minutes.

before serving.

Stir in the liquid smoke. Strain the sauce, pressing on the

2. Save remainder in a sealed container for later enjoyment.

solids to extract any liquid. Allow to cool before serving. www.thecitymagazineelp.com

June, 2014

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Ella Blu

el paso magazine 115

June, 2014

e n O d A Col Highlighting | By: REED LONEY |

116

p S o t w e s r B l a c o L e Thre

i k s w A Bre

June, 2014

When you relocate to a new city, usually you have certain worries. Where will I live? How is the economy? Will I be able to make new friends? These concerns are of course, important. When I moved to El Paso in December, there was no question that these were on my mind. But as a man, there was another issue that was on the same level as these – Where do I go out to drink and eat?

L

ike many men, I am cautious

One of the first bars that

of change when it comes down

I went to after moving

to bars and pubs. I very much

to El Paso was Eloise,

adhered to the “if it ain’t broke, don’t fix

a bar/coffee shop off

it” ideology. Moving, however, forced me

of

to abandon my old haunts in Michigan and

Drive.

desperately search for new ones in El Paso.

time I went to Eloise

And at first, I admit I was concerned. I had

was in fact for coffee,

become so accustomed to ordering the same

of which is very good,

adult beverages and the same savory dishes

but I fell in love with

from my hometown bars – would my body be

Eloise for their awesome

physically able to take the shock of new drink

drink selection and its

and cuisine? Now some may chuckle at my

intriguing atmosphere. Eloise makes their

was delighted to find that they had a local

worry, but a lot of men understand what I am

own flavored spirits using different brands of

beer from the town I moved from. It is very

talking about. Often times, we are creatures

bourbon, tequila, and vodka and then soaking

clear by the bottled beer list that they put

of habit that like (or more often, get used to)

different fruits and vegetables inside the

quite a bit of time and effort tracking and

going to a couple of specific places to eat

jugs of alcohol. Some examples would be

ordering a large variety of beers of differing

and drink for a number of reasons depending

their cherry bourbon and cucumber vodka,

styles and places around the world. However,

on tastes and preferences. I was very much

however these drink selections often times

if you are looking for wide selection of beer

a part of that crowd moving here. Thankfully,

change as Eloise employees experiment

on tap, this may not be the place for you - it is

when it came to going out for drinks and

with different combinations. If you are a fan

very evident that they put their concentration

food, El Paso was more than willing to step

of cocktails, this is the place for you! I would

on experimenting with their flavored spirits,

up to the plate almost immediately.

especially recommend anything involving

cocktails, and bottled beverages.

Shadow Now

Mountain the

first

their alcoholic coffee drinks. Beer wise, Eloise has many bottled options. In fact, I www.thecitymagazineelp.com

117

a cold one

June, 2014 If

you

are

looking

for a wide selection of tapped beer, one couldn’t

recommend

The Hoppy Monk high enough. The last count of their selection had over 60 beers available on tap, and close to 100 bottled options. In my humble opinion, this is the closest thing to a true pub in El Paso – an awesome selection of beer, great interior and outdoor patio, and sweet potato fries to die for. Obviously though, the beer selection is what gives The Hoppy Monk such an edge over so many bars in the city. Each time that I have gone there, I have ordered 2-3 beers and have yet to get the same beer twice. They are consistent in bringing in new arrivals of seasonal beer as well as, an obvious willingness to give different breweries from all over the country a shot.

If you are a fan of trying different styles of beer and multiple breweries, there is no other place for you – a terrific place to try a few beers and hang with friends.

JUNE 50

o

o

off

in registration

Come and Dance with us!

Jazz • Ballet • Tap Hip hop • Aerial

118

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

www.thecitymagazineelp.com

a cold one

June, 2014 Now, as you may have noticed, I have left food for last, simply because I love this bar’s food so much. The Block Table and Tap, located on North Mesa, has the best bar food around – I have consumed so many delicious calories at this place. They specialize in appetizers and finger food, perfect for when

substantial beer list

you are having a night out. One such meal is

as well, making for a

their Fresh Baked Pretzel and Beer Cheese

perfect option for a

Fondue. Call me a simple man, but food

night out.

like this meal just hits the spot when I have friends across from me and a beer to my left.

All in all, El Paso is

Dishes like their Chicken Fried Bacon, Grilled

filled to the brim with

Bacon Jalapenos, Nachos, and Sliders all

fantastic options for a

solidify The Block as the master of bar food,

night out on the town,

but they also have more specialized options

and

as well. “Devils on Horseback” is such

three of my personal

an option, dates stuffed with blue cheese

favorites. If you have

wrapped up in tasty bacon – this is a must

not given one of these

try dish, certainly my favorite when dining at

three a shot, try them

The Block. They also offer calamari, mussels,

out! I can guarantee

burgers, and even Lobster Macaroni and

they will not disappoint.

these

are

just

Cheese! Pairing their delicious food is a

www.thecitymagazineelp.com

119

How to Become an Expert

Wine Taster | By: VIC POULOS |

120

W

wine get

the wine glass you are drinking from. Does

made fun of all the

it curve slightly at the top? This helps keep

ine

‘snobs’

time for their actions

the swirling wine inside and also allows for

while tasting wine –

additional vapor to gather for better smelling.

the way they hold the

So what are you sniffing for? Try to notice if

tilted glass up in the air

the aroma is clean and attractive or musty

to look through it, the pretentious swirl that

and stale. If it’s the latter, you may have a

sloshes the wine up the sides of the glass,

bad bottle of wine on your hands. Try to also

the obnoxious sniff, the weird gurgling sound

note how intense the smell is and what the

when actually tasting the wine, and finally,

smell reminds you of. This is where many of

the spitting the wine out into a bucket. Who

the experts tend to get a little too fancy for

in their right mind spits wine out?

most people’s taste.

Even if you’re just a casual wine drinker and

Now the fun part – take a mouthful of the

don’t care about all of that fancy looking stuff,

wine. Make sure your entire tongue is

you’ve likely found yourself in at least one

covered in wine and try paying attention to

situation where you wished you knew more

the following characteristics: sweetness,

about how it all works so you could participate.

bitterness, astringency and the alcohol

At the very least, you’re just curious about

content of the wine. A great way to judge a

what’s actually going on when you see these

wine’s body is to compare it to how much

things. Here are some basic ways you can

unlike water it tastes. Also, here’s where the

make yourself look like an expert.

obnoxious gurgling comes in – you can get a better taste of the wine by drawing vapor up

It’s probably the least pleasurable part of

the retro-nasal passage that links the back of

wine tasting, but wine experts first want to

the mouth with the nose. So suck in a little

take a nice long look at their wine inside the

air as you taste!

glass. The best way to do this is by tilting the glass away from yourself, hopefully against

Lastly, try to take in the wine as a whole.

a white background. This will let you easily

Was sweetness balanced with acidity? How

see the different shades of color in the wine.

long did the impact of the wine last after you swallowed it? Lower quality wines will hardly

So what are you really looking for in the

leave anything behind, while high quality

wine? A browner hue usually indicates an

wines can last 30 seconds or more.

older wine, particularly if you see it in the rim of the wine in the glass. Generally,

These are really just some tips and the

wines that also have a nice sheen are

reasoning behind wine tasting, but I truly

typically higher quality than wines that

believe that even the most casual wine

have a monotone, dull appearance. Wine

drinker can easily know what they’re doing.

experts also always hold the glass by the

Nobody other than you can know exactly

stem rather than the base. This provides for

how a certain wine strikes your senses – if

a clear view of the wine, and prevents your

you like it, then what could really be wrong

hand from warming up the glass.

with it?

Next is the smell, or the aroma, of the wine.

The molecules of wine we smell come from the surface of the liquid, so the smell can be maximized by swirling the glass and

Salud!

VIC POULOS

Owner, Zin Valle Vineyards

increasing its surface area. Take a look at

www.thecitymagazineelp.com

121

November, 2013

122

www.thecitymagazineelp.com

WEST SIDE

CENTRAL

Opus World Bistro $$$ PR

Track One $$ H

7128 N. Mesa St.

1330 Robert E Lee Rd.

(915) 585-2221

(915) 779-2170

Opus World Bistro serves some

Need a night out with the guys?

of the best food on the west side

Track One has you covered with

of I-10. Mix Opus into your dining

their delicious wings, sure to

out experience and taste their

curb even the biggest appetite.

Thai Coconut Seafood Ciopino.

EAST SIDE

DOWNTOWN

Steve O’s Eats and Drinks $$ H

Tabla $$$ O H

1491 N. Lee Trevino Dr.

115 S. Durango St., Ste. D

(915) 590-8000

(915) 533-8935

Craving something from the

Try the Garbanzos & Carrots

sea? Steve O’s Eats and Drinks

Salad, a delicious Paleo Diet

is serving up some delicious

approved

new menu items, featuring the

feta, candied pistachios, and

Steve O’s Fish Tacos—sure to

preserved lemon dressing.

dish

with

curry,

take your breath away.

NORTH EAST

UNIVERSITY/KERN

Rosco’s Burger Inn $

Mesa Street Grill $$$ O H

3829 Tompkins Rd.

2525 N. Mesa St.

(915) 564-9028

(915) 532-1881

The “Original” Rosco burger consists of a 1/4 lb. pattie of fresh never frozen

For your next romantic evening

beef. Onions are worked into the beef

out, try Mesa Street’s Blue Point

for a perfectly grilled onion and pattie.

Oyster Shooters. With Fresh

Then the burger is finished with their

Blue Point Oysters and a spicy

mustard, fresh lettuce, ripe tomato, crisp

cocktail secret sauce this is the

pickles and fresh onion. This burger is

perfect appetizer to pair with

great for waking up the senses.

Tito’s Handmade Vodka.

Prices: $ - Low Priced Patio/Outdoor Seating - O

$$ - Medium Range Dog Friendly- DF

$$$ - High Priced $$$$ - Exquisite Dining Party/Private Room - PR Happy Hour - H

To highlight your local restaurant in The City Local Eats email: info@thecitymagazineelp.com

SAY YES to the Newest Food Movement

| By: MARINA MONSISVAIS photography by: TOMMIE MORELOS |

124

www.thecitymagazineelp.com

Article Title

June, 2014

M

not

new spin. Instead of sparing meat for the

realize that the concept

troops, he urged Americans to spare meat

of

any

people

do

Monday

for themselves. With new research pointing

is not a new idea. In

to overwhelming evidence that the average

fact,

Meatless

itself

American is simply consuming too much

started in World War I when the U.S. Food

meat (more than 75 pounds a year), Lerner

Administration instituted various campaigns

came out with the message, “one day a

to convince families to reduce consumption

week, cut out meat” to help Americans bring

of key food and resources needed for the

balance to their diets and prevent debilitating

war effort overseas. With slogans like “Food

diseases. The truth is, eating processed

Will Win the War,” “Meatless Monday,”

meat that has been injected with hormones

and “Wheatless Wednesday” Americans

and other chemicals can effect a myriad of

at home found a new sense of patriotism

health facets from brain development (with

and spared all they could. The results of

“bad” saturated fats harming brain functions)

these campaigns did in fact impact the war

to even effecting male sperm count – studies

effort with more than 13 million American

are conclusively showing that America simply

families pledging to abstain until the war

needs to cut back on meat. In the last 11

was over. Years later, President Roosevelt

years the concept has caught on worldwide

faced with the double threat of the Germans

– and has even arrived here in El Paso.

the

model

in Europe and the Japanese in the Pacific, relaunched the campaign and once again

Eloise, a local El Paso café bar and bistro has

urged Americans to ration their precious

adopted Meatless Monday, to help reduce

resources and food. In the wake of his death

meat consumption to improve personal

and even on after the war, President Truman

health and the health of the planet. Meatless

continued the campaign to further aid in the

Monday at Eloise means receiving a 20%

reconstruction of Europe.

discount off all vegan/vegetarian menu options every single Monday of the week.

After this reconstruction, Meatless Monday

“Meatless Monday is about providing our

almost fell into history with no revival –

customers with a choice. We’re not taking

until 2003. Health advocate Sid Lerner,

away our regular menu and we’re not

with the Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School

removing dishes with meat from our menu

of Public Health’s Center for a Livable

either.

Future reintroduced the campaign with a

options, and we want to introduce people to

www.thecitymagazineelp.com

It’s

fundamentally

about

adding

125

June, 2014

Claudia Castillo Makeup Artistry

Polished Skin Expressive Eyes (915) 313-1124 new, delicious healthy foods and new ways

up of cold layers of tomato sauce, scallion-

to experience vegetarian and vegan fare,”

almond cheese, seasonal vegetables and

said Chef Joey Cazares.

mushrooms are served with a basil-citrus salad and spiced walnuts.

Eloise offers a variety of vegetarian and

126

vegan options during their all day breakfast,

Going meatless once a week may reduce

lunch and dinner menu. Vegetarian breakfast

your risk of chronic preventable conditions

options include La Mancha’s Tortilla, a

like cancer, cardiovascular disease, diabetes

Spanish style omelette made up of three

and obesity. It can also help reduce your

organic eggs, fingerling potatoes and barley

carbon footprint and save precious resources

topped with manchego cheese, sautéed

like fresh water and fossil fuel. So whether

greens and olive oil. Lunch options include a

you decide to spend your Mondays at

vegan play on tuna salad called the Chickpea

Eloise, or to simply make some of your

of the Sea, a Chickpea salad sandwich made

own delicious recipes at home – making

with celery, carrot, roasted red bell pepper,

your Mondays meatless could be the next

assorted dry fruits and roasted nuts served

best thing you do for your body. For more

on wheat bread. For dinner you can’t go

information about meatless Monday, visit

wrong with the Pinzimonio Stack, made

www.meatlessmonday.com. www.thecitymagazineelp.com

June, 2014

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el paso magazine

127

REAL

June, 2014

MEN do Yoga | By: MEAGAN KINLEY |

128

www.thecitymagazineelp.com

N

R e a l m e n d o yo g a

June, 2014

T

here are many myths

The postures are non-complex. I try to keep

surrounding the exercise

the classes less intimidating, easier postures

of yoga. Some think it’s a “workout”

but longer holds, easy to understand verbiage,

comprised of simply stretching and

and of course postures that make men feel

sitting leisurely in different poses and

good,” Morris explained. This is key because

positions. While others think it’s something

as Morris stated, yoga not only burns calories

that’s just for the ladies, some believe it’s not

but also develops and increases balance,

even really a workout at all; some even rule out

strength, and flexibility, while reducing stress.

the practice based on the fact that they don’t

It also helps with back, shoulder and neck

feel flexible, and feel intimated by the difficult

problems. Yoga can be an active recovery, for

“look” of different positions. To sort out these

athletes or those who suffer from disabilities

myths and get to the heart of the matter of

or other previous injuries. “Yoga offers men

men and yoga, we at The City took it upon

tools to help cope with daily stress and

ourselves to find the truth behind the exercise

demands of daily life,” said Morris.

of yoga in relation to those of the male gender.

On a basic level the exercise itself forces the Simple statistics from the Yoga Journal found

body to stretch and use muscles that increase

that in 2012, “The latest ‘Yoga in America’ study

overall flexibility and strength — muscles that

. . . shows that 20.4 million Americans practice

often go ignored in the average day and life

yoga, compared to 15.8 million from the

of an American male. When these muscle

previous 2008 study, an increase of 29 percent.

groups are ignored a person will lose flexibility

In addition, practitioners spend $10.3 billion a

that could ultimately lead to the loss of overall

year on yoga classes and products, including

mobility.

equipment, clothing, vacations, and media.

yoga as a resource compatible with modern

The previous estimate from the 2008 study

physical therapy and are using it in many

was $5.7 billion.” Obviously, the sport itself is

patient rehabilitation cases. In fact, even pro

growing. With five million more practitioners in

football stars like Terrell Evans, Willie Roaf,

six years, there is something about yoga that

and Shannon Sharpe have began incorporating

is hooking people. But that same study found

yoga into their workouts and practice routines.

that out of all of these participants, 82.2 percent

Danny Poole, a yoga instructor out of Denver

are women; leaving only 17.8 percent as men.

Colorado was quoted in the Washington

Clearly there are some gender associations

Post saying that, “[These] athletes like yoga

related to the exercise of Yoga.

because it keeps them loose and focused

Today

doctors

are

recognizing

before a game and helps ease post-game But why? Yoga as an exercise has been

soreness . . . [it also helps to keep them] injury-

practiced for hundreds of years. While it’s

free.” If these pros are doing it, what is the

true origins are debated, it’s interconnection

average American male missing out on by

with man’s spiritual and physical nature is

avoiding it?

undeniable. Matt Morris, a local El Paso Yogi who teaches classes all over the city at

The benefits of yoga are indisputable. With

numerous yoga studios including: No Name

numerous research studies, science, and

Yoga, Open Doors Yoga, Surya Yoga, The

medicine itself pointing more and more to the

Mind Body Studio and Hot Box Yoga, believes

practice and exercise of yoga for people of all

that men are truly missing out on some critical

ages, and all physical abilities – why would we

physical benefits. “I’m the only men’s yoga

not want do it? Men, it’s time to buy a yoga

instructor in town. I developed a specific

mat and jump into one of El Paso’s many

sequence for men, from a man’s point of view.

yoga facilities. And with men like Matt Morris

My sequence offers a balance of breath work,

leading the way in new specialized yoga for

strength and balance, intensity and relaxation.

men, there is literally no better time to act.

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129

June, 2014

PICK

YOURSELF

UP

130

Why bodyweight exercises are important | By: PATRICK L. MARTINEZ, B.S. NUTRITION, CERTIFIED FITNESS TRAINER, CERTIFIED FITNESS NUTRITION COACH |

www.thecitymagazineelp.com

June, 2014

I

fitness to be a competitive bodybuilder or power

know my hardcore iron pushers are going to kill me for this one, but I have

I don’t want to say I’ve mastered my

lifter then this won’t work for you. You stick

to speak the truth. While pushing up

body, because there is always room for

to the heavy lifting as that is what your sport

305 on the bench press looks amazing

improvement. What I’m saying is that I can

requires for best results. I’m talking to the

and makes for a great social media

control it. I love strength training and it’s a

average Joe who’s just looking to look and

video, the truth is unless you’re a

crucial part of improving overall strength and

feel good. Don’t be afraid to mix up your

competitive body builder or power lifter, it’s

assisting in fat loss. However, I just want to

routine. Not only will you keep your muscles

really not necessary. Don’t get me wrong, if

educate my fellow man on other ways of

guessing, but you will avoid getting bored.

you’re working at increasing your max, then

bettering themselves. It does you no good

I understand. One rep max assessments are

to bench press 305 but you gas out at 20

You can even do these exercises on your heavy

great tools for gauging where you’re at and

pushups or you can barely do five pull ups. You

lifting days. If you’re doing chest, then go heavy

what you need to do to achieve your goals.

have to be well rounded. Mix up your routine.

on the press and then throw some pushups in

My point is this. Since I’ve been training,

For example, you can go heavy three days a

do a set of pushups until muscle failure and

I’ve noticed a trend in both men in women

week. Push, pull, jerk, press, squat all the iron

then repeat with the weights. Do this for 3-4

with great aesthetics but their strength

in the world. But for the rest of the week, do

sets. If you’re working back, then do pull ups.

not matching how they look. I guess it’s a

high-rep light or bodyweight exercises that

If you’re working legs, then do squat jumps or

personal choice. There are those who train

will not only increase muscular endurance

burpees. When and what you do is up to you,

to “look” good and those who train to “be”

but also increase your cardio output. I think

as long as you incorporate it somehow.

good. I’m not a bodybuilder, a power lifter,

the closest to this example would be Cross

or a fitness competitor. I do not claim to be

Fit. Cross Fit athletes still do heavy Olympic-

Lifting heavy weight is great, but you have to

able to push the weight some of these guys

style lifting but they also do high volume

be able to lift yourself up as well. Be a master

and gals are pushing these days. What I can

lightweight exercises as well.

of your body. Be the best in all attributes

your set. For example, in between the weights

such as speed, agility, quickness, balance,

say is that I have control over my own body.

My cardio is great, my muscular endurance is

The goal is not just to look good, but to have

flexibility, power, strength, and endurance. If

on point, and my balance, speed, agility, and

the strength and endurance to match. Like I

you want to see real gains, then you have to

quickness are where I need them to be.

said, the disclaimer is that if you’re looking

master all aspects of fitness.

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131

June, 2014

Camo Cream A Product with a Purpose | By: BRITTANY SAWREY |

132

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camo cream

June, 2014

hopping for yourself just got a

States, and already have dozens more in

making their dreams a reality. “In company

little bit more selfless. With

the works; they focus on veterans with the

meetings, we decided we wanted the

creativity abounding in

most debilitating and life-altering injuries,

product to be a hand and body lotion that was

the business world,

hoping to allow them to focus on healing

fun and useful for the customer, hence the

are

by alleviating the financial burden of a

different label designs and the non-greasy,

desirable and useful

mortgage. The proximity of Fort Bliss and

fast absorbing formula. Then we did some

and give back to the

El Paso’s abundance of military personnel

research and selected Homes For Our Troops

community

have

makes this product all the more meaningful

as the organization to contribute to because

become the hottest

to the community. Carnegie Corporation of

by giving wounded vets a mortgage free

products

that

– and most charitable

New York and John S. and James L. Knight

home they create environments in which

– trend. Whether you’re

Foundation’s News21 estimate that there

they can thrive.”

purchasing TOMS shoes with the knowledge

at 2.6 million post-9/11 veterans; these are

a child will also get a pair, or you’re buying

men and women that put their very lives on

Camo Cream isn’t only good for your

a Sevenly shirt and helping to vaccinate

the line to keep their families, friends and

conscious,

children, customers have realized that their

country safe. Now, with Camo Cream, we

designed for men, is fragrance-free and

purchasing power can be put to good use.

have a small way to give back to the over

designed

Your personal products can now help those

1700 that have been physically injured in

Supporting our veterans won’t break the

around you, and El Paso isn’t excluded; a new

service and now need our help. The specially

bank, either; a 2-ounce tube of Camo Cream

skin cream, called “Camo Cream,” has been

designed houses that Homes For Our Troops

retails at just $4.99, and is being carried at

locally developed and each purchase helps

builds make it easier for injured veterans to

every Walgreens in El Paso. Coming in five

build homes for wounded veterans.

flourish in their communities.

different designs, this lotion is a perfect gift

however. to

The

deeply

hand

moisturize

cream, hands.

for the men in your life, and knowing that it Walgreens has recently begun carrying this

“I felt particularly motivated by a news story

supports a good cause only makes it more

hand cream, created by the makers of First

about the challenges of wounded veterans,”

desirable. Ways for customers to give back

Crush and Merlot Skin Care brands. Camo

Wayne Beckley, Camo Cream’s creator,

and support causes continues to expand,

Cream is based here in El Paso, and it not

explains. Already successful in the skin care

allowing anyone to make a small difference

only heals, hydrates and protects your skin,

world, Beckley knew he could find a way

through

but it also supports Homes For Our Troops.

to get involved. “So in keeping with what

purchase. Beckley agrees, “We hope Camo

This national non-profit, started in 2004,

I know best, it just made sense to create

Cream will grow into a product line that can

helps build specially adapted homes for

a skin care product specifically earmarked

help make a difference.”

post-9/11 injured veterans. They have built

to contribute to their cause.” Exactly what

over 160 homes throughout the United

the product would be was the next step to

www.thecitymagazineelp.com

the

products

they

choose

to

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June, 2014

PREROGATIVE | By: MATTHEW WILKSON |

134

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June, 2014

In the business world, appearances can

h i s p r e r o g at i v e

Safety Razor Set By Baxter of California What speaks business professional from the first impression? How about a clean-shaven face? Now that we are back in the thick of El

determine your doom

Paso summer heat, many guys have cut the chops and traded the

or help design your

beard for a cool bare face. This look not only puts you at the top of

destiny. The mind of

significant other! Baxter of California carries a slew of men’s products

the modern madman is usually a frantic

the hiring list, but also gives you a competitive, sexy edge to lure that to keep you looking your best, but their Safety Razor Set is nothing short of impressive. Adding this nickel plated set to your bathroom counter instantaneously transforms you into a man of sophistication

and over-caffeinated

and more importantly, it will give you one of the best shaves of your

problem solving factory,

lifetime! The set comes with a soft silver tipped badger brush to

but a well-groomed gentleman always has the appearance of a

help evenly apply your favorite shave cream and a safety razor with a double edge to keep your face kissably stubble free. Both are outfitted with engraved handles that are reminiscent of the poles that the pros in short robe would post outside their barber shops. This masculine razor set hangs on an attractive chrome stand to drip dry and look all bad ass on your counter top. Available at BaxterofCalifornia.com $250.00

well-oiled machine in the workforce.

With help from a few

Dr. Bronner’s Pure Castile Soap

additional grooming

This one is for all you no fuss, no muss get-down-to-business

products any man can

type of suit and tie guys. The 32 oz. bottle of castile liquid soap is one of the most versatile multipurpose soaps on the planet.

look like he is always

It is gentle enough to use on your hair, face and body, but also

on top of his game, no

recommended for a laundry list of other uses. That means your

matter what field he is playing on. This month we focus on the hard working businessman

shower time just got cut in half to keep your productivity at a maximum. Dr. Bronner’s most popular fragrance of peppermint is a therapeutic mild stimulant that tingles the skin, and invigorates the conscious mind. The soap is made with ingredients that are certified vegan, certified organic, and certified fair trade.

Available at Target $16.99

that never lets his looks get in the way

Philips Sonicare AirFloss

of success. This is

There is little that ruins the ability to concentrate during a conversation

His Prerogative!

quite like bad breath does. It can turn a business deal into a total flop, but if you brush and floss regularly you just might not get caught with stink-breath. Ok, brushing is easy, but who likes flossing? It takes a ton of time, and it is a bit tricky to get in between those back molars without gagging yourself. Philips shares your pain and the Sonicare AirFloss is the cure. Throw this little guy in your briefcase and you’ll stay flossin’ more often than Mike Jones. The AirFloss uses microburst technology, blasting air and micro droplets of water at up to 45MPH through the areas of your teeth that are difficult to reach. Plaque and food particles are quickly forced from between the tough areas of the teeth and you are left with a clean smile. Not only will your breath stop smelling nasty, but you will also be one step closer to preventing gum disease. Who knows? It just may help you to conquer the interview for that dream job you are about to interview for. Available at Target.com $89.99

www.thecitymagazineelp.com

135

June, 2014

IN OUT | By: NATALIE ROSALES |

136

in and out

June, 2014

MEN IN

Classic, simple timepieces Besides a wedding band, watches are the one exception to men’s jewelry. A watch not only punctuates an outfit but also defines who you are and can subtly show off personality. A watch is a symbol of good taste and a man with good taste should be able to appropriately match his watch to the occasion.

For casual wear, a leather strap with a plain black or white face will go with anything, but remember that the strap should match your shoes. To brighten up your look for summer, replace the leather strap with a striped band for added color. For a black tie event always remember that the more simple the watch the dressier it is. A slim unadorned timepiece with a black leather band is perfect for an elegant and timeless look. Uniform Wares, Seiko, and Timex are some more affordable brands that carry some great pieces.

OUT

Flashy timepieces Nothing is worse then an oversized watch that screams, “Look at me!” Remember you don’t need to yell to make a statement. Your watch should always be in proportion to your body type, no need to overpower. Don’t be that guy with brand-new everything -- keep in mind that a timeless look will never fade, but a loud “on trend” for-the-moment look will.

Tip* Get your watch serviced every few years. It will save you money in the long run and will keep your timepiece tickin’.

www.thecitymagazineelp.com

IN

Fitted Swim trunks There are a few key tricks to finding the perfect swim trunks.

The shorts must fit properly, meaning two to three inches above the knee. A tailored fit is also important; the tailored closer fit will trim you down and hug your body comfortably and accordingly. Stick to basic colors, stripes, or use simple patterns, nothing too flashy or loud and stay away from graphics. Also keep in mind that elastic waistbands tend to grab at fat and make your midsection look larger, so stick with flat front trunks with a Velcro fly and lace tie.

OUT

Lose the baggage Hey beach bums! With pool season in full force, we figured that we would explore some swimwear that will fit your body type as well as your lifestyle. Large and oversized swim trunks are the best way to highlight everything that you don’t want to call out and why would you want to wear trunks that will leave you pale from your waist to your shins?

If you’re thinner, long and baggy trunks will make you look like a stick with chicken legs.

If you’re tall, the trunks will mess with your proportions and make your stomach look abnormally long. If you are bigger and have a gut, you will look sloppy, and if you’re fit, then the trunks will add unwanted bulk. If you’re short you will look like you’re drowning in your suit. With this being said, even if you have the perfect body, oversized trunks will make you look like a child.

137

June, 2014 MODEL: BILL MELUGIN (KFOX14 REPORTER) PHOTOGRAPHER: DAV ANMED

CREATIVE DIRECTOR AND STYLIST: JOSH SANCHEZ

HAIR: HUNTER QUARTERMANE OF QUARTERMANE SALON SKIN: CALUDIA CASTILLO

LOCATION SCOUT & ASSISTANT: NATALIE ROSALES LOCATION: J.A.R. CONSTRUCTION, INC.

| By: JOSH SANCHEZ |

LO OK MODERN THE

MAN

www.thecitymagazineelp.com

June, 2014

SHIRT: HUGO BOSS

PANTS & HAT: BURBERRY BRIT SUNGLASSES: RAY BAN

WATCH: MICHAEL KORS

www.thecitymagazineelp.com

June, 2014

SHIRT: STONE ROSE SHORTS: LACOSTE

SUNGLASSES: PRADA BELT: HUGO BOSS WATCH: DIESEL

140

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June, 2014

POLO & PANTS: TED BAKER

SPORTS JACKET: STONE ROSE

SUNGLASSES: DOLCE & GABBANA

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141

June, 2014 Look found at

GENTLEMEN’S UNION

142

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June, 2014 Look found at

GENTLEMEN’S UNION

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143

June, 2014

m m u S er with the

MYSTICS | By: MICHELLE CROMER |

144

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spiritualit y

June, 2014

A mystic is a man who separates heaven and earth even if he enjoys them both.

G.K. Chesterton, in Tolstoy (1903)

T

This summer, I’ve decided to

used by mystics to affirm extraordinary

is misleading, and that things are not what

spend each day reading the

insights beyond all expression, and thus

they seem.

works of different mystics. I’ll

probably

begin

with

impossible to communicate to others.

True mystics simply open their souls to

Thomas

Merton and move backward in time

Mystics matter. They are pioneers who

the oncoming wave. Sure of themselves,

to Teresa of Avila and John on

explore the frontiers and limits of being

because they feel within them something

the Cross. Then I will rummage around the

human. Not all of us can climb Everest or

better than themselves, they prove to be

middle Ages, to Bernard of Clairvaux, Francis

circumnavigate the globe, but explorers

great men of action, to the surprise of those

of Assisi and Bonaventure. Then all the way

show us what is possible for human beings.

for whom mysticism is nothing but visions,

in reverse to Rumi, the 13th century Persian

Mystics are interior explorers, and they too

raptures and ecstasies.

poet and Sufi mystic.

show us the possible.

Mystics represent thematically what remains

The word “mysticism” is not only wildly

The mystics provide us with the language of

for most of us unthematic: that we have the

used, but also often, wildly abused. Here’s

the sacred, the vocabulary to articulate our

condition of the possibility of encountering God.

what it’s not: some dark-haired, dark-eyed,

out-of-the norm experiences. They embrace

witch looking person who lapses into trances,

darkness, the divine darkness, which lies

I enjoy reading about the mystics because

hears heavenly voices, works miracles, tells

way beyond my field of vision. The mystic

in some small way I know what they are

the future, has a direct line with the dead,

with their night vision goggles, remind me

talking about. The mystics speak to me with

all while levitating on an alien spacecraft.

that I too could have bat vision. They see

an uncanny and unexpected immediacy

Mysticism has become an overused catch

and help me to see much more than visions.

– despite the historical gulfs and cultural

phrase for religious weirdness.

They have learned to peer into the divine

chasms that divide their world and mine.

darkness long and hard enough to see a Mysticism, from the Greek word mystikos,

God-drenched world, dizzying in its beauty.

Wouldn’t it be great if I discover that the

is the pursuit of communication with,

They show me that I too have eyes to see

mystics are actually the normal ones, they

identification with, or conscious awareness

those fleeting moments through which most

are the norms of what it means to be truly

of an ultimate reality, divinity, spiritual truth,

routinely sleep.

human? It’s the rest of us that are abnormal.

The rest of us have in principle the mystical

or God, through direct experience, intuition, instinct or insight. Mysticism usually centers

From the beginning of time, mysticism has

within but we have repressed it because the

on a practice or practices intended to nurture

kept men sane. The thing that has driven

culture we live in ignores, and even silences

those experiences or awareness. Differing

men mad was logic. The only thing that

the mystical. I have an insane thirst for

religious, social and psychological traditions

has kept the race of men from the mad

the mystical, for the diversity of individual

have described this fundamental mystical

extremes of the convent and the pirate-

mystics and mystical traditions. It will be an

experience in many different ways. The words

galley, the nightclub and the lethal chamber,

interesting summer!

“mystical” and “mysticism,” are commonly

has been mysticism — the belief that logic

145

SIXTH SIXTH SENSE SENSE June, 2014

THE

| By: GRACE THE PSYCHIC LADY |

H

ave you ever met someone for the very first time and

eventually you learn how to play the piano. With our intuition it is

you sense right away whether you like them or not, but

quite the same. If you learn to pay attention and listen to what you

you don’t know why? This is a natural instinctive way

“sense” then it happens more frequently and more accurately. Some

that your intuition is communicating with you, giving you

people often say they are afraid of what they may sense. This sense

guidance and insight to someone, a warning of sorts.

is not meant to scare us, but to serve as a warning to prepare us for upcoming events in our lives.

We all know what the five senses are; taste, sight, touch, smell, and sound. Well there is one more, it is the sixth sense. It is a heightened

If you would like to sharpen your sixth sense, here are some simple

sense of all the other senses combined and it is called intuition. Everyone

suggestions in helping you to tune in.

is born with this ability to “sense” certain things. As children our intuition

• Be patient, otherwise you may miss something. We often are in

is strongest, perhaps this is due to being in tune with life’s natural

such a hurry we forget to slow down and sometimes miss that

rhythms and not being distracted by things such as work, bills, problems,

turn we were meant to take. You can’t rush this.

and stress which often interfere. As we age we get caught up in life

• Learn to listen to your intuition. It can come in the form of a song

where we don’t listen to our intuition and therefore it becomes dormant.

on the radio or in a dream.

• Find your sign indicator. Everyone senses signals differently,

I describe it often as a gut feeling like a knot in the stomach. It is

but commonly one may get chills as an example.

something you feel. When you think about something too much this

• Meditate even if only a few minutes at a time --

is your logic, which does not have to do with what you are feeling

it will help you to tune in better.

-- there is a distinction between the two. For example, has the phone

• Take an “intuitive” walk – literally -- it helps to clear

ever rang right when you were thinking about a certain person and it

the mind and connect better.

was them calling? Well, this is a way your intuition works; it notified

• Avoid negative thinking -- it clutters the intuition

you they were going to contact you. You sensed it.

with doubt and we are unable to sense it.

• Most importantly, trust yourself and what you sense, it will guide

It is like practicing to play the piano, if you do it often and regularly 146

you to a happier existence. www.thecitymagazineelp.com

Experience a new style of living November, 2013

Schedule a showing (915) 500-6800 Sellers & Buyers Real Estate

Office: (915) 585-2222 780 N. Resler Drive www.sellersbuyers.com

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June, 2014

A Celebration of

| By: BRITTANY SAWREY |

148

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zoo

June, 2014

K

ick off the summer season right

protect the elephants. After, you will be taken

place all day for both of the elephants, along

with this year’s Elephant Festival

onto a viewing platform behind the scenes

with tours of the other areas of the zoo. One

at the El Paso Zoo! This annual

where you can have a special, up-close view

of the best ways to get involved in the day

celebration of the largest animals

of the elephants in their habitat. If this quieter,

is to sign up for an Elephant Produce Hunt.

at the zoo is set for June 7th and 8th, from

more intimate time with the elephants

Going into the elephant habitat itself (without

10-3pm. Every year thousands of guests

sounds like your cup of tea, make sure to

the elephants), guests get to hide produce

come to enjoy the music, entertainment and

sign up ahead of time at www.elpasozoo.

for the elephants to find and enjoy for only

activities offered in honor of Savannah and

org. Online registration is located under the

$5. You can sign up for the Elephant Produce

Juno, the zoo’s resident Asian Elephants.

“Zoo Adventure” tab, and guests 13 and over

Hunt either before or at the festival, but

are $28, while 12 and under are $20. Price

spaces are limited, so make sure you get a

includes admission to the zoo.

spot! Other activities, such as an acrobatic

If you’re particularly enthusiastic, you can

dance troop, a karate demonstration group,

start your day at 8:30 at Breakfast with the Elephants. You can enjoy a delicious breakfast

The Elephant Festival itself will start at

and storybook time, give guests plenty to

– which this year includes freshly made crepes

10am, with Savannah, the zoo’s 62-year-old

enjoy. Bowling for the Rainforest – where

– while the elephants browse in front of you,

elephant, taking a bubble bath. Keeper story

you bowl with sanitized and shellacked

enjoying their own form of breakfast. Partway

time is always a favorite with guests, where

elephant poop – will also be returning as a

through breakfast you will get to hear about

they get to listen to stories from the elephant

crowd favorite. Various entertainers, music,

“96 Elephants,” which is the Association of

zookeepers themselves and ask their own

and arts and crafts will make this a festival

Zoos and Aquariums new initiative to help

questions. Special enrichment will be taking

you won’t want to miss!

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June, 2014

150

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June, 2014

MAN’S

Best Friend T

| By: MEAGAN KINLEY |

here are few sights that go together

itself actually began more than 100,000 years

significant. This cohabitation of man and dog

as well as a man and his dog. For

ago with man and beast as enemies; in fact,

lead to man’s gradual dominance over the

those of you who have ever owned

early Homo sapiens were plagued by the

animal and selective breeding began. Today

or loved a four-legged canine, you know that

predator instinct of Canis lupus (or wolves),

there are hundreds of breeds; ranging from

there is little these furry creatures won’t do

the ancestor of today’s domestic dogs.

the smallest Chihuahua to the largest Great

for the their beloved owners. The unique

Through years of slow evolution, man and

Dane – each of which has found its own

nature of this relationship has been captured

wolf somehow came to a mutual tolerance

special place in the heart of man.

in a myriad of photographs, (ranging from

for one another (speculations guess that as

service dogs to household pets) and motion

mans population grew, the scavenger nature

This relationship is one that has truly stood

pictures (think everything from Rin Tin Tin, to

of the wolf took to eating man’s leftovers

the test of time. Beginning as enemies, man

Lassie all the way to animated characters like

and other garbage). Further development of

and dog have developed a mutual respect for

Scooby Doo, Snoopy, the 101 Dalmatians,

their relationship is evidenced in burial rituals

each that has blossomed into what can only

etc.). It simply can’t be denied; there is

during the Stone Age more than 14,000 years

be described as a deeply emotional and pure

something special about the bond between

ago; archeologists have uncovered evidence

connection – or as some like to call it, true

our canine friends and us.

that dogs were buried alongside fellow

love. Unlike human lovers, or fair-weather

humans. The fact that these early humans

friends, a dog will always stay by your side

But . . . the history of man and dog did not

acknowledged the animals as sacred and

no matter what.

begin in such a positive light. The relationship

sought to honor them with these burials is

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June, 2014

Photo by Ivan Pierre Aguirre

COACH MIKA

UTEP Track and | By: MEAGAN KINLEY |

152

www.thecitymagazineelp.com Photo

by Micheal P. Reese

June, 2014

Photo by Micheal P. Reese

LAAKSONEN

Field Head Coach

A

t the competitive level, Track and

sight unseen. He came over having never

His success didn’t end there. Laaksonen

Field is a sport filled with stories

even seen the campus before. He was a really

continued working hard and in 1993 he

of valor and perseverance; with

good athlete and we came to find out that he

repeated

years of development, the sport

his

All-American

was a really good person,” recalled former

earning

loss,

Head Coach Bob Kitchens. Before moving

Championships in the hammer throw. With

triumph and the eternal bond

across the country to pursue his academic and

an outstanding throw of 244-3 (74.44), he still

of competition that binds

athletic goals, Laaksonen spent two years at

holds the all-time UTEP school record.

all who participate in it

the University of Technology in Lappeenranta,

together. Many people don’t realize that a

Finland where he studied Industrial Economics

After two and half years of record breaking

piece of that history is alive right here in El

— his first plan was to only stay in El Paso for

performance as a UTEP Miner, Laaksonen

Paso at University of Texas’ budding Track

a couple of semesters, but his success would

graduated with his undergraduate degree in

and Field program. With a legacy of hard

keep him at UTEP for what would become his

Finance in 1995 and continued his education

work and humility of spirit, UTEP continues

thrilling lifelong career.

and graduated with a Masters of Science

is

filled

with

beauty,

second

place

performance,

at

the

NCAA

degree in Economics in July of 1998. While his

to push forward not only in the C-USA Conference but at the National level as well.

Once he arrived in the United States, he

eligibility as a student was complete, he went

At the helm of the program is UTEP’s Head

began instantly making noise for the UTEP

on to compete in many competitions abroad

Coach, Mika Laaksonen.

Track and Field team. As a new Miner, he won

including the European Championships and

the NCAA Championship in the 35-pound

the World Championships, finishing in the

Mika Laaksonen got his start at UTEP as an

weight throw for the indoor season and

top 50 in the world in 1996 and 1997. In fact,

athlete. He was recruited from Finland to the

the hammer throw in the following outdoor

it was in 1996 that Laaksonen threw a 250-1

join the school’s events squad as a thrower in

season. “It was a lot of hard work and you

(76.22), his all-time career best.

the fall of 1991 and came to the university on

certainly learn a lot about yourself when you

January 7th, 1992. “Steve Lemke, a former

commit yourself to the sport 100 percent like

After ending his throwing career on a high

Assistant Coach, recruited Mika by telephone

that,” Coach Laaksonen said.

note, Laaksonen returned to UTEP in 1998

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June, 2014

Photo by Denise Mata and began working as the Assistant Coach under his own former Coach, Bob Kitchens and the rest was history. Working under Coach Kitchens for 12 years Laaksonen would go on to coach 30 Conference Champions and numerous All-Americans.

When Coach Kitchens retired, the selection of a new head coach was easy and on April 14, 2010, Laakensen was named Head Coach of the UTEP Track and Field team.

“We have worked hard over the years and today we have a pretty darn good track team.

There’s a lot of heart and integrity in these athletes and we are always pushing to get better on both sides for both the men and women’s teams,” said Coach Laaksonen.

For all of these successes and more, Coach Mika Laaksonen was immortalized in the UTEP Track and Field Hall of Fame in April of 2005. He has also been honored as the 2013 C-USA Outdoor Season Coach of the Year, and the 2014 C-USA Indoor Season Coach of the Year. With only four years as Head Coach, Coach Laaksonen has carried the baton of competition, hard work and determination. He has personally experienced a myriad of achievements and shared these triumphs with the students and aspiring athletes that he coaches everyday.

UTEP and the El Paso community are proud of the accomplishments of Coach Laaksonen and look forward to many more years of his inspiring leadership.

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June, 2014

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June, 2014

A Tangled Web

I

| By: FELIPA SOLIS |

t continues ... Peter Parker, aka Spiderman, is ready to graduate, yet there are many things in the way to keep him from putting on that cap and gown.

This sequel-to-the-sequel stars once again Andrew Garfield (The Social Network) who is indeed smart enough and quirky enough to be that person

who spins his web to fight injustice. The action begins at the very beginning, whereby explosions abound, the future of New York City is again in question, and the fight against the evil Oscorp begins ... again.

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June, 2014 To begin, we find out more about Peter’s parents, there are many chase scenes, and an abundance of colorful villains. There is also quite a bit of star power attached to this blockbuster. We watch his Aunt May cry a lot, played by Oscar winning Actress Sally Field. We also see the great Paul Giamatti, and another Oscar winner, Jamie Foxx, who is really interesting as Electro. Gwen, played by Emma Stone, has intense chemistry with Peter/Spidey, and that makes for a very interesting love story, but is this what the kids really want to see?

Let us cut to this chase. The movie is way too long. There is just not enough story to maintain all of these scenarios for more than two and a half hours. Director Mark Webb has conceived of every way to provide youngsters with enough visual stimulation until the next summer blockbuster is released, but one cannot help but walk out of the theater wondering why these films must be made over and over again? This is a multi million-dollar production. It is designed for 3-D and IMAX, so not only will the theater experience cost a bit more money for the moviegoer, it will also result in lots and lots of Spiderman merch until the next best thing rolls along.

This new release is considered the first big summer box office bonanza. “Captain America” was just there to entice us for more. No other film is going to be competition for a while. It will, however, be interesting to see if the women continue to enjoy “The Other Woman,” while Dad and the kids head over to the “Amazing Spiderman 2.” The kids will say it’s “cool,” no doubt about that. The adults will realize that they need to save their money for yet more summer action flicks.

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November, 2013

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medical

June, 2014

TOP PLASTIC SURGERY PROCEDURES FOR MEN | By: SOUTHWEST PLASTIC SURGERY |

Top Plastic Surgery Procedures for Men Hair Transplant Gynecomastia Facelift Rhinoplasty Blepharoplasty Liposuction and 3D Body Contouring Non-Surgical – Botox, Fillers & Lasers, Hair Removal In the increasingly demanding and competitive business world, every detail and edge counts. Appearance plays an important role when it comes to trustworthiness and appeal, two crucial characteristics of competitive edge advantage.

Frank Agullo, MD FACS Humberto Palladino, MD Southwest Plastic Surgery 10175 Gateway Blvd West, Suite 210 (915) 590-7900 swplasticsurgery.com

Both women and men are living longer too, creating the desire to delay aging. The many alternatives available today can help slow down the aging process, and when combined with timely touch ups, provide the optimal combination to address the effects of the passage of time.

Hair loss being quite a prevalent concern in males can have a strong impact on self-esteem and self-image. Hair transplantation significantly boosts confidence for those who do not prefer the “bald look.” Breast reduction for

Current trends and socially demanding

males, alone or coupled with liposuction and fat grafting,

lifestyles have altered men’s perspective of

can change the look of a feminine chest to a more athletic

cosmetic and plastic surgery procedures. A

appearance, in just one surgical session. Finally, facial

culture with a broader point of view and more

procedures like rhinoplasty (nose job) or rejuvenation by

concerned about physique has increased the

means of surgery, such as facelift and blepharoplasty (eyelid surgery),

popularity of cosmetic procedures amongst

as well as non-surgical methods like Botox, injectables, and laser

men. While the most popular procedures

treatments, can accentuate the masculine appeal by targeting specific

differ from those of women, the end goal

facial features that will improve the aesthetics of the face. From platelet

is the same: increase self-confidence and

rich plasma injections to fat grafting and more, the methods of facial

promote a fresher look, either for business or

rejuvenation are getting less invasive, requiring shorter recovery times

personal reasons.

and delivering amazing results.

At Southwest Plastic Surgery you will find award winning Board Certified professionals who are skilled and knowledgeable in the art of Plastic Surgery. Come visit or call for a consultation today (915) 590-7900.

www.thecitymagazineelp.com

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investment

June, 2014

Bitcoin: Fad or the Future?

W

hat if someone told you about an investment that has made some people millionaires overnight and has both a number of high-profile supporters and a global reach? Would you be tempted to invest? Now what if someone told you that the same investment also could lose most or all of its value almost overnight, and that you might not have access to your money when you need it?

How does it sound now?

You’ve just confronted the debate surrounding

of solutions that can be discovered globally

Physical bitcoins, which have a software

the five-year-old digital phenomenon known

per hour (and thus the number of “blocks”

key embedded in them, have begun to be

as Bitcoin. An alternative currency that exists

created and bitcoins mined) is limited by the

minted. However, acceptance of bitcoins as

strictly as digital code, Bitcoin has received a

system’s software code. The total number of

payment is entirely at a seller’s discretion;

lot of attention, especially in the last year. In

bitcoins available to be mined eventually is said

there is no guarantee you’ll be able to spend

part that’s because speculation in Bitcoin has

to be limited to 21 million, with roughly 12.5

them where you want to or get the value you

resulted in wild gyrations in its value.

million already in circulation.* However, most

expect. Also, as outlined below, problems at

users acquire them by either buying them with

some exchanges have sometimes impeded

Is Bitcoin an investment? A scam? A network

physical currencies such as dollars or accepting

access to Bitcoin funds.

of computers? The future of currency? If

them as payment for goods and services.

Speculating in Bitcoin

you’re unclear on what all the fuss is about, here’s a brief introduction to just what it is,

Advocates argue that the advantages of

Bitcoin’s usage as a currency is a ripple

how it works, and what’s been happening in

the system are: (1) it’s not controlled by

compared to the tidal waves of investment

the Bitcoin world lately, as well as some of

any government’s central bank, (2) a global

speculation it has fueled. “Investing” in

the potential pitfalls it presents.

virtual currency facilitates global commercial

bitcoins

transactions, (3) every block and Bitcoin

through one of the methods outlined above.

transaction is recorded, and (4) though

However, to say that Bitcoin as an investment

Bitcoin isn’t a single company but a virtual

transactions are recorded, the payer and

is volatile is an understatement. Over its five-

currency

peer-to-peer

payee are anonymous, much like a cash

year history, its value has fluctuated wildly

computer-based electronic cash system first

transaction (However, that anonymity has

as both speculation and confidence in it as

outlined in 2009 by an anonymous person or

attracted charges that have been used for

a currency have ebbed and surged. In April

group using the name Satoshi Nakamoto. To

illegal activities like money laundering; last

2013, after rising from $90 to $260 over two

understand how the currency works, you have

October the FBI shut down the Silk Road

weeks, a bitcoin’s value plummeted to $130

to understand where it comes from. Unlike

Bitcoin exchange and seized its assets).

in just six hours. ** Since mid-2010, it has

Bitcoin as currency supported

by

a

printed currency or coins that are minted,

simply

means

acquiring

them

gone from a low of $2 USD to as high as

Bitcoin is created by “mining”-- using complex

How are bitcoins used

$1,200 last November, with multiple double-

software to solve complicated mathematical

to pay for something?

digit crashes in between. *** After China

computations (or contracting with a mining

Just as a physical wallet holds paper money

cracked down on virtual currency transactions

company to do it for you). Solving a problem

and change, a digital wallet stores the private

by financial institutions and halted deposits

creates a so-called “block,” and the computer

software keys that are bitcoins. It makes or

of Yuan at exchanges there, Bitcoin’s worth

that solved it is rewarded with a set number of

receives payments by communicating with

in dollars was cut by more than half.

digital bitcoins, each of which is simply a set

the network of other Bitcoin wallets. Some

of one public and one private cryptographic

merchants and services, especially those

That volatility has led to problems for people

key. (The units are generally “bitcoins,” while

that focus on online or international sales,

trying to make payments in bitcoins. It’s hard

the general system is “Bitcoin.”) The number

are starting to explore Bitcoin transactions.

to use a currency when you’re not sure from

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June, 2014

investment

day-to-day whether the amount in your virtual

necessary for virtual currencies helped send

wallet is worth enough to buy a Range Rover

Bitcoin to its peak last November. Unlike

or a tank of gas. Complicating the issue is

accounts at FDIC-insured banks, there is no

the fact that the value can vary on different

protection for possible loss from a digital

Bitcoin exchanges.

wallet. Also, unlike credit card charges, Bitcoin transactions are irreversible.

However, volatility is only one of the problems

The Internal Revenue Service provided a

that has created havoc in the Bitcoin

little additional regulatory clarity in March

universe. Earlier this year, one exchange

when it announced it will treat Bitcoin

announced that a hacker had made off with

holdings as property rather than as a

some of the funds stored there, and cyber

currency for tax purposes. That means that

attacks halted trading briefly on two major

the sale or exchange of bitcoins that have

exchanges in February. Days later, Mt. Gox,

gained in value since they were acquired

at one point said to be the world’s largest

could potentially trigger a tax liability. Also,

Bitcoin exchange, shuttered its website,

payments made in bitcoins are subject to the

leaving customers with their money in limbo

same information reporting requirements as

for days before declaring that the company

any other payments made in property. And

was bankrupt and nearly half a billion dollars’

wages paid in Bitcoin must be reported on a

worth of bitcoins had vanished (though some

W-2 form and are taxable as income, just as

were subsequently located). Worse than not

any other wages would be.

2013 Broker/Dealer of the Year

knowing how much your bitcoins will buy is not knowing whether they’re available to buy

Speculation hasn’t been limited to the

anything at all.

currency itself. Much as the Internet did in its early days, Bitcoin also has spawned an entire

Hackers and bankruptcy aren’t the only

ecosystem of startup companies and venture

reasons Bitcoin holders could lose the ability

capitalists who want to be part of building

to spend or exchange their funds. Because

out the technology and networks involved

of the accusations of money laundering via

in creating and transferring it. In addition to

Bitcoin, scrutiny of digital transactions is

multiple exchanges, companies have begun

increasing. If a law enforcement agency

providing data on the virtual currency’s

seized the assets of a digital platform or

price and status and creating Bitcoin-based

exchange, as they did with Silk Road, access

products, including the first ATM in the United

to digital wallets there could be restricted.

States. And as with early Internet companies,

The Wild West rides again

such ventures are likely to involve a high degree of uncertainty and risk.

So far, regulatory oversight of Bitcoin has

Henry Gallardo CWS®

Partner & Director of Investment Management Certified Wealth Strategist®

Strategic Wealth Advisors Terrace Gardens Office Park 600 Sunland Park, Building One, Ste 100 El Paso, Texas 79912 (915) 532-8885 Office (915) 842-9532 fax (915) 422-8885 cell hgallardo@sw-advisors.com www.sw-advisors.com

been spotty; the closest thing to a regulatory

Obviously, virtual currency still faces a lot of

body is the Bitcoin Foundation, a private

challenges. If you’re considering exploring

organization that “standardizes, protects,

it, either for transactions or as a speculative

and promotes” Bitcoin usage. The currency

investment, you should become far more

is not backed by either a government or

familiar with it than simply relying on this

any physical asset such as gold. Major

discussion. And because of the issues

exchanges are located around the world,

outlined above, you should be prepared for

and the decentralized nature of the system

dramatic price swings and only use money

makes it more challenging for governmental

that you aren’t relying on for something else.

This alert is intended for educational purposes only.

It is not a solicitation of any kind, and neither the information nor any opinion included in it should be considered financial advice.

*Source: www.coindesk.com, March 26, 2014. **Source: “Bitcoin panic selling halves its value,” April 11, 2013, BBC News (www.bbc.co.uk). ***Source: www.bitcoincharts.com, March 26, 2014.

Securities offered through Investors Capital Corporation, Member FINRA, SIPC Advisory Services offered through Investors Capital Advisory 6 Kimball Ln, Lynnfield MA 01940

regulators to get a handle on it. So far there has been little oversight by any U.S. regulatory body; in fact, testimony before a U.S. Senate committee that no new regulations were

www.thecitymagazineelp.com

Views and opinions expressed are those of Henry Gallardo and are subject to change based on market and other conditions. It is general in nature, is provided for informational purposes only, and should not be construed as specific investment advice. Consult a financial advisor regarding your specific situation.

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June, 2014

THE CITY AGENDA june 2014 1 may 1 - jun. 19

Rudolph Mazda West 5K Head into June with a running headstart at this 5K run and 1 mile walk at Rudolph Mazda West. Proceeds benefit UMC Advanced Endoscopy. Races start at 8 am; registration is ongoing.

Info: raceadventuresunlimited.com

1

6 june 6-27

june 1-30

First Light Federal Credit Union Presents Alfresco Fridays

Chihuahuas Baseball The Chihuahuas’ inaugural season is in full swing at Southwest University Park in Downtown El Paso. You can find out about special promotions and ticket packages on their official team website.

Info: epchihuahuas.com 6.1 Tacoma 6:05p

6.15 Round Rock 6:05p

6.2 Tacoma 6:35p

6.26 Tacoma 7:05p

6.3 Tacoma 6:35p

6.27 Tacoma 7:05p

6.9 New Orleans 6:35p

6.28 Tacoma 7:05p

6.10 New Orleans 6:35p

6.29 Tacoma 6:05p

6.11 New Orleans 6:35p

6.30 Albuquerque 7:05p

6.12 New Orleans 6:35p

7.1 Albuquerque 7:05p

6.13 Round Rock 7:05p

7.2 Albuquerque 7:05p

6.14 Round Rock 7:05p

7.3 Albuquerque 6:15

6

Alfresco Fridays presented by First Light Credit Union are back this summer for their 12th season! This year’s events will be held at the Convention Center Plaza. Admission is free; no pets allowed.

5.6 Trailer Band (Country Rock) 5.13 Tejas Band (Spanish Variety) 5.27 Sobredosis del Sabor (Salsa, Cumbia) Info: elpasolive.com/alfrescofridays

june 6

El Paso Musem of Art Member Reception The El Paso Museum of Art will host museum members and VIP June 6th at 6 pm. The Museum will be showcasing their new exhibitions Water, Water Everywhere: Paeon to a Vanishing Resource and Vanishing Ice: Alpine and Polar Landscapes in Art 1775-2012.

Info: elpasoartmuseum.org

7 1

6

june 1

june 6

Jersey Boys Winner of the Best Musical Award on Broadway, in London, and Australia, this blockbuster phenomenon takes you up the charts, across the country and behind the music of Frankie Valli and the Four Seasons. Jersey Boys plays five nights at the Plaza Theatre from May 28th through June 1st. Info: (915) 231-1111 or elpasolive.com/jerseyboys

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First Friday Artwalk & Ghost Tour Experience the First Friday Artwalk and Ghost Tour at San Elizario Historical District from 6 to 10 pm. See local art, shop for jewelry, pottery, and more. There are sweet and savory treats and also a “movie on the wall” at 8:15. Admission is free; the ghost tour is $10.

Info: sanelizariohistoricartdistrict.com

june 7-28

Downtown Art & Farmers Market Every Saturday morning from 9 am to 1 pm, the Union Plaza District is home to a variety of vendors of delicious food, local art and crafts, and entertainment including free activities for kids. Artisan coffee, paintings, and live music are just some of the delights on offer. Metered parking downtown is free on Saturdays.

Info: elpasotexas.gov/mcad/downtown_ market.asp

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June, 2014

15 june 15

Mission Trail Art Market 7 june 7

Concerts Cali rap legends e-40 (pictured) and Too $hort hit the stage at Tricky Falls at 8 pm on June 26th.

2

Perfect P----

El Paso Orchestra Plays Pink Floyd El Paso Symphony Orchestra will play the music of classic psych-rock band Pink Floyd with conductor Brent Havens and vocalist Randy Jackson at 8 pm at the Plaza Theatre.

Info: epso.org

Discover the Mission Trail Art Market, the Mission Valley’s premier art and craft sale. Professional artisans from across the region present an amazing selection of quality painting, sculpture, photography and more.

11 am - 6 pm; admission is free.

Info: missiontrailartmarket.com

w/ potty mouth trainyard • 9 pm

Uh Huh Her w/ kim anh

4

lowbrow palace • 9 pm

15

w/ nalgadas lowbrow palace • 9 pm

w/ Freddy gibbs

16

tricky falls • 8 pm

19

Belinda abraham chavez theatre • 7 pm

Too Short & E-40 tricky falls • 8 pm

10

june 7-28

Farmer’s Market at Ardovino’s Desert Crossing

Paul Collins Beat

Tech N9ne

7

Ardovino’s Desert Crossing is hosting a brunch and farmer’s market on Saturdays from 9 am - 2 pm, where you’ll find dozens of vendors and a wide selection of organic and pesticide-free produce, beef, pork, lamb and goat, fresh-baked breads and salsas.

Info: (575) 589-0653 or ardovinos.com/farmersmarket

june 16-27

Summer Camps at El Paso Exploreum

26

The El Paso Exploreum has fun and

Guantanamo Baywatch w/ nalgadas black market • 9 pm

KC & the Sunshine Band socorro entertainment center • 9 pm

10

7 7 june 7-28

Dancing in the City Dancing in the City is a free outdoor dance series at the El Paso Convention Center Plaza held every Saturday evening in June.

Dance Lessons are from 7-8 pm, followed by a concert from 8-10.

Info: elpasolive.com/dancinginthecity

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16

june 7-8

Elephant Festival Meet Juno and Savannah, the El Paso Zoo’s Asian elephants at their two-day, elephantastic Elephant Festival. There will be an elephant breakfast and an opportunity to hang out with the elephant keepers as they bathe and groom the girls.

Info: ticketmaster.com

educational camps for kids all summer long. For the Space Exploration camp (June 16-20, AM) they’ve partnered with NASA to take kids on an adventure that’s out of this world. Campers will get a chance to make their own take-home telescope, and campers will also get a chance to meet real NASA workers.

The Krafty Kids Camp (June 23-27, PM) challenges creativity and provides a chance for kids to make all kinds of paintings, clay sculptures, and more.

At the always messy Crazy Scientists Camp (June 16-20, PM), kids will blow up a volcano, design and test experiments, and make gooey slime. Admission is $100 for all camps; military and multiple family member discounts are available.

Info: elpasoexploreum.org

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21 june 21-22

El Paso Downtown Street Fest 2014 As one of El Paso’s largest downtown celebrations, the Downtown Street Festival presented by Southwest University and VIVA Auto Group is a nonstop party with food, fun, games, and outdoor music. There will be live music on five stages as well as fireworks provided

by Teacher’s Federal Credit Union. Not just an adult-oriented event, there is a children’s carnival, arts and crafts area, and over a hundred vendor booths. Tickets are available at all area 7-Eleven Alon locations or at holdmyticket.com.

Info: elpasolive.com

27 june 27

Mike Epps Comedian and actor Mike Epps (Friday, All About the Benjamins) will be bringing his After Dark 2014 tour to the Plaza Theatre June 27th at 9 pm.

Info: mikeepps.com

www.thecitymagazineelp.com

November, 2013

165

MINI ROCKS THE FOUNTAINS AT FARAH

MINI F56 LAUNCH PARTY Photographed by LUIS MIRANDA, JR.

4/25/14

PUNTO LIVING AND ERA SELLERS, BUYERS & ASSOCIATES

PRESENT PUNTO LIVING’S TROPICAL NIGHT at A NEW HOME BY PUNTO LIVING | Photographed by TOMMIE MORELOS

MERCEDES-BENZ OF EL PASO SWIM AND CRUISE

FASHION SHOW 2014

Produced by WILHELMINA BAZAAR at THE MERCEDES-BENZ OF EL PASO SHOWROOM | Photographed by DAV ANMED

2014 RAY MICKENS CELEBRITY WEEKEND

CHARITY GOLF TOURNAMENT at PAINTED DUNES DESERT GOLF COURSE | Photographed by LUIS MIRANDA, JR.

POLO REAL 2014

PRESENTED BY THE EL PASO MUSEUM OF HISTORY FOUNDATION RECOGNISING MR. & MRS. PAUL FOSTER at RANCHO SANTA MARIA POLO CLUB | Photographed by TOMMIE MORELOS

MRS. EL PASO

PAGEANT 2014 at CIELO VISTA MALL | Photographed by LUI CARDENAS

HAIR WARS THE SUPREME SALON TOUR PRESENTED BY VISTA DEL SOL CONFERENCE CENTER Produced by WINDY CITY MEDIA at THE CAMINO REAL HOTEL | Photographed by DAV ANMED, TOMMIE MORELOS AND CHARLOTTE MCGEE

YARI ORTA-RUBIO, HOME PROS REAL ESTATE GROUP

SPRING CUSTOMER APPRECIATION PARTY Photographed by LUIS MIRANDA, JR.

November, 2013

DREAM

IN

BLACK

WEST • 5020 N. Desert Blvd Ste. E| (915) 842-8867 Between Texas Roadhouse and Fuddrucker’s

180

EAST (New!) • 6974 Gateway East Ste. E | (915) 842-8867 Across from Cielo Vista Mall next to Reebok and Ella Blu

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