THECITY Magazine El Paso • May 2014

Meet El Paso’s

WOMEN IN BUSINESS

KID’S WORLD It’s a

Summer’s Approaching

Keeli Jernigan On Leading a

50

Women-Owned Company In North America

Fastest-Growing

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FASHION · HEALTH · TRAVEL May, 2014

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

BUSINESS MANAGER COVER: Keeli Jernigan PHOTOGRAPHY BY: Dav Anmed

HAIR BY: David Paul of Quartermane Salon

MAKE UP BY: Claudia Castillo

COVER STORY BY: Brenda Castaneda

Josh Sanchez josh@thecitymagazineelp.com

EDITOR Kim North kim@thecitymagazineelp.com

EDITORIAL ASSISTANT/STAFF WRITER Meagan Kinley

DISTRIBUTION MANAGER/ EVENT COORDINATOR Chaz Wilson

EDITORIAL DESIGN Ernie Sanchez Creative

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

ADMINISTRATIVE ASSISTANT Natalie Rosales natalie@thecitymagazineelp.com

SALES MANAGER Joseph D. Dias joe@thecitymagazineelp.com

ADVERTISING EXECUTIVES

Retraction: In our April 2014 issue “The El Paso Club Celebrates its 50th Year” we incorrectly stated their membership fees. The correct dues for membership are $50.00 per month, and from now through the month of September 2014 the $175 initiation fee will be waived for anyone who mentions the story in the magazine.

Thank you El Paso Club!

Subscription form can be found on page 156.

Jacqueline Ramsey - Senior Advertising Executive jackie@thecitymagazineelp.com Chaz Wilson chaz@thecitymagazineelp.com Sharon Passantino sharon@thecitymagazineelp.com Javier R. Delgado javier@thecitymagazineelp.com Eddie M. Algarin eddie@thecitymagazineelp.com

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

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

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

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

All rights reserved.

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Felipa Solis, Jannet Bustillos, Grace Neuhaus, Michelle Cromer, Patrick Martínez, Meagan Kinley, Josh Sanchez, Michael Graham, Vic Poulos, Brittany Sawrey, Joann Wardy, Robin Niland, Marko Morales, Natalie Rosales, Erika Lopez, Adair Margo, Reed Loney, Candace Vasquez, Brenda Castaneda, JoLene Keipp, Andrés Rodríguez, Jose Soto, Soffia Wardy, Valentin Sandoval, Desiree Lozano, John Del Rosario, Chantel Crews Ancell, Matthew Abraham, Kristofer Johnson.

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

CREATIVE SUPPORT Theresa Guerra, Ibrahim Sánchez

May, 2014

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May, 2014

Editor–in–Chief For a woman, in all realms of life it takes courage to stretch our limits, express our power, and fulfill our potential. Sometimes, our best successes come on the high-heels of failures.

T

emperatures are up and then down

into a project, the pieces begin to fit together,

again. The wind is making us all

and just when it finally all clicks into place

tightly hold on to our skirts, but

someone recognizes our hard work. We’ve

no matter the spring weather, it is

spent the last few months sifting through

always a great time to live in El Paso. I proudly

the many women whose successes have

mention skirts because this is our “Women in

been brought to the attention of our editorial

Business Issue” and we’re celebrating skirts,

board. We wish we could bring each of their

the women who wear the skirts in the family

stories to you, but all in due time.

(opposite the pants in the family…LOL), the moms who are the glue to the families, and the

Let’s start with our cover woman, Keeli

women who are the glue to their companies.

Jernigan. She’s the Chief Executive Officer of Trans-Expedite, a full service logistics

As women, I’m sure we all wish there were

company that is one of the city’s, and the

blueprints to success. Blueprints for stay-

state’s, leading woman-owned businesses.

at-home-moms, blueprints for women-run

She admits that it’s a challenge balancing her

businesses, and especially blueprints for

role as a wife and mother of two young sons,

moms who wipe runny noses on their way

and the CEO of a major enterprise.

out the door, headed to the office to put out fires in Corporate America. Well girls, sadly,

Another impressive businesswoman who

those instructions don’t exist. We are the

deserves recognition is Elodia Perches-

generation who will write those blueprints,

Adamson, owner of Ella Blue and Bridal

and just about the time we get our instruction

Novias. Her story begins with that of travels.

manual ready to print, the rules will change.

She’s been around the world and brings her

Confession: I love being an entrepreneur; it’s

treasures and shopping experiences back to

an incredible experience…but it isn’t always

El Paso, to enrich those of us wishing we

easy. An adventure? Definitely. All sunshine

were able to slip into her suitcase unnoticed.

and rainbows? Not so much.

When asked the key to her success, she told us, “Success is loving what you do so much

Over the years I’ve learned many things. I’ve

that you never want to retire.”

learned that although the dress, the skirt, is very, very, important, what’s more important

There are always those who take the back

is the strong-driven woman in the dress that

seat, those who glue the pieces together,

really makes the difference.

unrecognized by the outside world, and one of those women we’ve chosen to

We were inspired by and salute the women

spotlight is Channel 9 News Director Lauren

in this issue; each of whom I am convinced

Macias-Cervantes. Lauren credits her drive,

is capable of changing the world. And I’m

determination and unrelenting work ethic to

excited to live in the city that they help

her mom Jenny. Although she’s had offers for

improve and where they’ve chosen to make

out of town opportunities, she stays in El Paso

their mark. What does it mean to be a woman

for the love of culture, synergy and familia.

recognized for her work? We all know how

Those who know me know I have a love for

wonderful it feels when we pour our energies

horse racing! Exciting was the news when

4

Hollywood announced the filming of the story of Mine That Bird, the 2009 Kentucky Derby Winner, involving our own Sunland Park Race Track. This film allowed the racing lover to relive that Kentucky Derby story. I don’t often have time to write, but I poured every detail I knew (…well, not every detail) out on paper (some 3,000 words), unable to stop myself. When our Editor Kim North saw the editorial she shook her head no, and said, “Cut it, we’re over page count.” Even in our office the businesswomen carry a big stick.

Enjoy every page of our Women in Business Issue and don’t worry gentlemen, I’m really not a feminist; next month we’ve dedicated an entire magazine just for you.

Let the summer begin!

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May, 2014

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May, 2014

contents

43

JDW INSURANCE - 2009 El Paso, Texas

profiles

W MEN IN BUSINESS By: THE CITY

The City Features 24

36

Keeli Jernigan

The City

The City

A Success Story

Crystal Long GECU’s President and CEO

By: BRENDA CASTANEDA

By: MICHAEL C. GRAHAM

By: ERIKA LOPEZ

32

The City

Chasing Down the Facts KTSM’s Lauren Macias-Cervantes

80

76

74

A Glorious Road to Success Patricia Holland-Branch

84 The City

Blessed to be a Blessing Gina Carameros

Around the World WEA VER scott weaver photography and Back, Elodia Perches-Adamson

By: DESIREE LOZANO

By: MEAGAN KINLEY

The City

88 The City

By: CHANTEL FacilitiesConnection

Taking the Complexity out of Interiors for Over 20 Years

CREWS ANCELL

94 92

Tales of Honor El Paso’s Own Megan Glancey

Where Are They Now?

Artist Spotlight

By: MEAGAN KINLEY

By: VALENTIN SANDOVAL

By: JOSE SOTO

98

Sports

On the Fast Track Utep’s Janice Jackson By: REED LONEY

110

Lindsay Hovel Hits Hollywood

Candace Reyes A Creator of Jazz Music

102 A History of Mothering

Mother’s Day 2014

106 The City

Teacher of the Year 2014 EPISD Nominations

By: BRITTANY SAWREY

The City | Mercedes-Benz

of El Paso A New Face, Same Commitment to Service

114

Hidden Gems

Pinup Express Coffee

By: MEAGAN KINLEY

116

By: ANDRÉS RODRÍGUEZ

118

The City

The City Girl 2013 Summer Stout By: MEAGAN KINLEY

122

The Look

Chic Chick By: JOSH SANCHEZ

The City

Eli Reyes, Pageanting With a Purpose By: BRITTANY SAWREY

By: MARKO MORALES

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Junior League Of El Paso, Inc.

The City

132

In & Out

Step into Spring Style By: NATALIE ROSALES

www.thecitymagazineelp.com

May, 2014

www.thecitymagazineelp.com

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May, 2014

140

s Profile

The City

136

Hair Wars Supreme Salon Tour Coming to El Paso

Beauty

Lashing Out Trends and Tips

By: VALENTIN SANDOVAL

By: MATTHEW ABRAHAM

144 148 Fitness

Beauty is the Beast

The City

B y: T H E

150

Spirituality

Entertaining

By: VIC POULOS

By: SOFFIA WARDY

By: MEAGAN KINLEY

Chocolate, Martinis, and Finding Your Goddess

The Gift of Hospitality

By: MICHELLE CROMER

168

162 166

Kids Excel El Paso Presents Mathematical Mystery Tour

C IT Y

154

Wine

Food, Wine and Fat

By: PATRICK MARTINEZ

Parenting

The City

Summer Water Safety

School’s Out For Summer!

Local Summer Camps

By: ROBIN NILAND

By: JOLENE REZA KEIPP

172

The Astro Child

174 Zoo

The City

The City

By: GRACE THE PSYCHIC LADY

By: BRITTANY SAWREY

By: KRISTOFER JOHNSON

By: JOHN DEL ROSARIO

Astrology

184 The City

A Wild Summer Camp

Polo Real Tradition on the Border By: ADAIR MARGO

196 Etiquette

Treat Administration Aides with Respect By: JOANN WARDY

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157

176

This is EP Bike Month

188 Movies

“50 to 1” No Long Shot by Any Means By: FELIPA SOLIS

197 Medical

No Sweat!

By: DR. LYLE D. WEEKS

180

The Show Must Go On!

190 The City

The Story Behind the Movie Mine that Bird By: SHELLEY MOZELLE

198 Investment

Zen and 10 Habits for Financial Stability and Success By: MONICA SALAIZ NARVAEZ

www.thecitymagazineelp.com

May, 2014

The Contributors

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1) Michael C. Graham 2) GRACE The Psychic Lady 3) FELIPA SOLIS 4) Meagan Kinley 5) MICHELLE CROMER 12

6) DAV ANMED 7) Victor Poulos 8) JANNET BUSTILLOS 9) Josh Sanchez 10) PATRICK L. MARTINEZ

May, 2014

11) Robert Corral 12) Adair Margo 13) Candace Vasquez 14) Andrés Rodríguez 15) Soffia wardy www.thecitymagazineelp.com

May, 2014

El Paso

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

Las Cruces

855-9500

1265 El Paseo Rd.

647-2085

307-7396

315 S. Telshor Blvd.

532-1144

the-mattressstore.com www.thecitymagazineelp.com

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May, 2014

1

For full contributor bios go to www.thecitymagazineelp.com

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16) Erika Lopez 17) brenda Castaneda 18) Jose Soto 19) Chantel Crews Ancell 20) jolene keipp 21) Valentin sandoval 22) Brittany Sawrey 23) Matthew Abraham 24) Robin Niland

25) LUIS MIRANda, jr.

26) Joann Wardy 27) Tommie Morelos 28) Marko morales 29) Reed Loney 30) Natalie Rosales 31) Kristofer Johnson 32) Desiree Lozano 33) John Del Rosario

www.thecitymagazineelp.com

SPHN Bariatric City Mag 4.pdf

May, 2014

C

M

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CM

MY

CY

CMY

K

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4/24/14

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May, 2014

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May, 2014

nationally ranked in 12 specialties. the difference between practicing medicine and leading it.

When a diagnosis can affect your life, how far would you travel for the best? As one of the best hospitals in America, according to U.S. News & World Report, Houston Methodist is the choice of patients from around the country for their critical health needs.

That’s why we offer complimentary medical and concierge services for out of town patients, making it as easy as possible for patients to access the best. For appointments, trip-planning assistance and more, call 877.790.DOCS. houstonmethodist.org/usa

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May, 2014

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May, 2014

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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May, 2014

alamogordo 955 white sands blvd (575) 434.4116

10850 N LOOP DR (915) 860.1315

el paso

10600 MONTANA AVE (915) 591.4655

2112 trawood (915) 595-2788

8889 gateway west (915) 599.8571

2800 n mesa st (915) 533.6883

1831 N LEE TREVINO DR (915) 594.1129

1432 ANTONIO ST (915) 886.2413

2879 MONTANA AVE (915) 566.4464

10090 RUSHING RD (915) 755.9510

HORIZON CITY

5401 MONTANA AVE (915) 779.8825

800 N ZARAGOZA RD (915) 860.1670

1100 GERONIMO DR (915) 778.9301

2950 GEORGE DIETER DR (915) 856.7040

5900 N MESA ST (915) 584.1153

1329 GEORGE DIETER DR (915) 594.3838

302 s oregon st (915) 532.4344

10780 KENWORTHY ST (915) 821.2698

1210 WEDGEWOOD DR (915) 591.9496

1607 N ZARAGOZA RD (915) 856.0071

8050 N MESA ST (915) 585.0491

11685 MONTWOOD DR (915) 855.7704

890 N RESLER DR (915) 584.1359

12201 MONTWOOD DR (915) 856.0278

8045 N LOOP DR (915) 592.5849

12390 EDGEMERE BLVD (915) 849.6849

Find your copy of www.thecitymagazineelp.com

SOCORRO

9428 DYER ST (915) 751.4415

100 N AMERICAS AVE (915) 790.0404 ANTHONY

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

at a Walgreens near you 21

May, 2014

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May, 2014

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May, 2014

a Success Story

S

| By: BRENDA L. CASTANEDA photography by: DAV ANMED |

September 11, 2001 was a tragic

of the September 11 tragedy, they moved

day in the history of our country and it

to El Paso, Texas to open a business that

changed our lives forever. Everything

would later thrive as one of the city’s leading,

after that day would be different,

women-owned businesses. On October 1,

from boarding airplanes to what we

2001, Keeli Jernigan, along with her partner

packed in our luggage. The face

and husband, Mark, opened their freight

of travel in and out of the United

business with a $29,000 family loan and only

States was forever changed. The

two other employees. Trans-Expedite, “a

changes that were in place after

trusted, full service logistics company” whose

9/11 created new rules and much stricter

“core competency is the time-sensitive

guidelines for everything we did regarding all

transportation of critical cargo throughout the

types of travel – all in the name of the highest

United States and around the world” was

level of security for our nation.

created. Starting any business during this period for our country was challenging

The radical changes that affected the

but most especially for a certified

transportation industry did not stop Mark and

indirect air carrier moving freight

Keeli Jernigan from realizing their dream. In

on commercial airlines. The

2001, shortly after the devastating events

timing

www.thecitymagazineelp.com

of

the

start-

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May, 2014

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www.thecitymagazineelp.com

Keeli Jernigan

May, 2014

up of their operation proved to be a smart move. Although they were regulated by the Transportation and Security Administration and the process for tendering freight to the airlines changed almost daily for the TransExpedite team, they weathered any and all obstacles that they faced. “For a small startup company trying to grow a business it was time intensive and added additional costs,” says Keeli Jernigan.

Both Keeli and Mark had worked in the industry for several years before settling here in El Paso. Keeli attended the University of Texas at Austin earning a Bachelor of

Business

Administration

degree

in

Marketing. Right after college she moved to Houston, Texas for about three years, then to San Diego, California for a few years and then back to Houston for three more years. In each of those cities she worked in the freight and transportation sector gaining valuable experience and expertise that would prove to be essential to her success in their move to El Paso. According to Keeli, Chief Executive Officer of Trans-Expedite, they made the decision to start their own business with customer service being their top priority and to “react to customers needs more quickly.”

The couple chose to open their company in El Paso because of the strong manufacturing business in both Juárez and El Paso.

Now approaching their thirteenth anniversary this October, Trans-Expedite has evolved into one of the most successful organizations in the freight industry across the nation. When asked what factors contribute to the success of their business, Keeli credits the success of their company to two very important factors.

The first is their team of 170 employees - a group of highly talented individuals with several years of experience and bringing their collaborative “best practices” to the organization, as well as empowering the employees in the decision making process.

Secondly, their continued success with longterm customer relationships and expertise www.thecitymagazineelp.com

in customer service has been an important element in maintaining the highest standard of customer satisfaction. Factors such as responding quickly to the needs of their customers and flexibility in responding to those needs have contributed to their success. This commitment to customer service is evident 27

Keeli Jernigan

May, 2014 as Mrs. Jernigan boasts that their “first four

bringing her company national accolades

certainly

customers are still with us today!”

and recognition in the 13 years of operation.

personalized service.

always

the

commitment

to

In a predominantly male-oriented business, Trans-

she has managed to remain a leader in the

Keeli Jernigan is a nationally recognized

Expedite has been certified by WEBENC-

freight industry. One of the main reasons for

business woman who has remained focused

Women’s

National

this, according to Keeli, is that she has been

on the individual she serves by always

Council, of which Keeli Jernigan serves

able to build trust and confidence between

providing them with the highest quality of

on the national board. To be certified as a

her and her clients. Sitting one on one with

service. However, like so many women,

“woman-owned business” one must have at

potential customers, she gives them the

she is also a working mom. She has two

least 51% ownership of the company. Keeli

opportunity to ask questions and get to know

young sons, 14-year-old Tate, and 11-year-

is the President and Chief Executive Officer

her and Trans-Expedite. When they leave that

old Luke. As a business owner, Keeli admits

of Trans-Expedite, while husband, Mark, is

meeting, according to Keeli, they “know that

that it has been a challenge to balance her

Vice-President and Chief Operating Officer.

I know what I’m talking about.”

role as mother with that of CEO of a major

In 2013, she was honored by the Women’s

While Trans-Expedite is recognized nationally

feel, that sense of guilt in trying to do both.

Business Council – Southwest as their

as a leader in the transportation, warehousing

She believes that women try to do everything

2013

“Women’s

and custom brokerage industry, it has also

and that we are the ones placing that undue

Star.”

The

Council

been a very prominent participant in the many

burden on ourselves. She understands that

Southwest Region (which is based in Dallas)

civic and charitable organizations and events.

she does not have to be Superwoman and

and a partner organization of WEBENC,

The Trans-Expedite family is a generous

that it is important to learn to delegate and

administers the certification for the women-

contributor with both monetary donations and

ask for help. Her biggest realization was

owned businesses. This certification offers

many volunteer hours in community events.

that “I can’t do everything, and it’s okay!”

the women opportunities to promote and

Many of those include, but are certainly not

The time she spends with Tate and Luke is

expand their businesses. It also presents

limited to the Susan G. Komen Race for the

priceless. She makes it a point to give them

many

one-on-

Cure, the Foundation for Women’s Resources,

her undivided attention and total quality time.

representatives,

The Women’s Fund of El Paso, the YWCA,

That means no phone calls, no emails, and

and educational events such as seminars,

the Women’s Business Enterprise National

no interruptions of any kind. What gives her

conferences and workshops. In addition,

Council

Business

confidence in her role as mom, is to know

it provides for links between businesses

Council – Southwest, the Junior League of

that she is “truly present, giving them my

and corporations that have strong diversity

El Paso, Inc., the Alzheimer’s Association,

undivided attention.”

initiatives in place. The diversity initiatives

the University of Texas El Paso Athletics

are important because many of these

and various youth athletic organizations

Keeli Jernigan is the epitome of determination,

companies have government contracts that

throughout the United States.

commitment and success and a remarkable

As

a

woman-owned Business

business,

Enterprise

enterprise. She shares what so many women

one

Business

Women’s

networking dialogue

Enterprise

Business

opportunities,

corporate

(WBENC),

Women’s

role model for so many women, having grown

require a certain percentage of their business be with suppliers that are either minority-

Trans-Expedite is located at 7 Founders

from a small business of only four employees

owned or women-owned business. For the

Boulevard in Butterfield Trail in El Paso, Texas.

back in 2001 to the staff of 170 and her multi-

corporations it is also a valuable marketing

The pride of the organization and one of the

million-dollar enterprise today. Her dedication

tool that shows their clients that they are as

main reasons for their continued success is

to her customers will guarantee continued

diverse as their customers. Keeli Jernigan

the flexibility that they offer their customers,

success for years to come!

is more that just a brilliant business owner,

impeccable

www.thecitymagazineelp.com

customer

satisfaction,

and

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November, 2013

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November, 2013

Obstetrics and Gynecology Services In addition to well woman examinations and routine care, other OB-GYN services include: • • • •

Evaluation and treatment of pelvic pain Evaluation and treatment of vulvar pain Acupuncture treatment of pain Symptom control and disease prevention during perimenopause and menopause • Osteoporosis screening (DXA scans) • Pediatric and adolescent gynecology • Prenatal care

• Sexually transmitted infections and treatment • Preinvasive cancer screening and treatment • Family planning (IUD, Nexplanon®) • Gynecologic issues associated with aging • In office treatment of abnormal bleeding • In office painless sterilization • Vaginal birth after cesarean section

Our physicians perform gynecologic surgery using both laparoscopy, hysteroscopy, robotic and open procedures to address: • Abnormal uterine bleeding

• Endometriosis

• Pelvic masses

(915 ) 215-5000

www.texastechphysicians.com/elpaso 31

Working her way to the Top

May, 2014

GECU’s President and CEO

Crystal Long A | By: MICHAEL C. GRAHAM photography by: TOMMIE MORELOS |

s part of our look at the

Crystal is a shining example of combining

women

leaders

work, education, professional development

in our community, I had the

and a personal life all at the same time. As she

honor of sitting down and

was working her way up the organizational

having a brief conversation

ladder at GECU, gaining experience that she

with

the

described as “invaluable” in allowing her to

business

Crystal

Long,

of

understand many department’s roles first

largest

hand, she was also able to pursue continued

independent and locally owned financial

education and help raise a family. On the

services organization. I had the pleasure of

educational front, she continues to pursue

meeting Crystal several years ago, and my

additional programs and expertise, and is

initial impression then was confirmed when

just about to complete an Executive MBA

we had the chance to visit in her office at

program at UTEP. As Crystal remarked to me,

GECU’s main operations and headquarters

“The Executive MBA program has been an

building on Airway Boulevard: she is as

incredible experience. We just returned from

hardworking and dedicated of an executive

a trip to Hong Kong as part of the completion

as you are likely to ever meet.

of the program, and I have to applaud UTEP

President GECU,

El

and

CEO

Paso’s

for how impressive that program has been.”

Crystal was born in Lubbock, Texas, but came to El Paso as a child, when her father was

One of the areas I asked Crystal about

transferred here, and Crystal told me that she

was the remarkable growth that GECU has

has long considered El Paso her home. Her

experienced, particularly over the last 20

family lived in the northeast part of El Paso,

years or so, and the challenges that growth

and she is a proud graduate of Andress High

presented. “I think that this building, our

School. She began her career with GECU a

operations and headquarters center, is a

little over three decades ago as a file clerk,

great example of meeting those challenges.

at the suggestion of her then future mother-

We were fractured and disjointed in some of

in-law, who had worked at GECU in the

our main service and administrative areas,

1960s and thought that Crystal would enjoy

and this building allowed us to consolidate

it. In what is certainly a good omen for any

and centralize many key functions.” As we

relationship Crystal took her advice, and the

talked, Crystal shared with me that the main

rest is history. I think it is safe to say that her

location now houses administration, senior

mother-in-law knew what she was saying

management, compliance, the call center,

when she told Crystal she would enjoy it.

and several other key areas. www.thecitymagazineelp.com

May, 2014

www.thecitymagazineelp.com

33

May, 2014

Aside from the changes that were required

community charter, membership is open to

as a result of that growth, we also discussed

anyone who works, lives, or worships in El

the reasons that GECU was able to enjoy

Paso. Those changes greatly increased the

such tremendous success. Today, GECU is

potential pool of membership. However, as

the largest independent and locally owned

Crystal pointed out, simply having a larger

financial services organization in El Paso, and

membership pool would not necessarily

a very large institution by any measure, with

result in such high levels of sustained

over 300,000 members. From a practical

growth year after year. “I think people really

standpoint, one of those factors was the

like the way we put their interests first,

membership change that allowed many

and really strive to serve our members’

more El Pasoans to become members.

needs. Our philosophy is people helping

When it was founded in 1932, as Federal

people.” That philosophy has helped GECU

Employees Credit Union, membership was

with a solid word of mouth campaign, as

limited to federal civil service employees.

members would tell their family members

Family members of those employees were

and friends, and more of them would want

added later, and then in 1997, membership

to become members.

was changed to being tied to location rather than status, and was opened to virtually

As this is our Women in Business issue, with

anyone living or working in El Paso County,

a focus on women leaders and executives

and now reaches into small parts of New

in our community, we also discussed how

Mexico. As Crystal describes their current

women have made increasing strides in all

34

www.thecitymagazineelp.com

May, 2014 areas of community leadership, including leading GECU. “I am proud to be the second female CEO at GECU, succeeding Harriet May. She was a fantastic mentor to me and leader for the credit union.

We have always provided equal opportunity for all of our members to grow, develop and progress.” Crystal also mentioned that GECU is continuing to work on increasing the loan numbers within its mortgage department, something that will necessarily involve dealing with women and men, as there is a healthy mix of families obtaining loans for new purchases of homes, as well as refinancing opportunities. “As a credit union, our focus is on the individual consumer, not necessarily the commercial client.” That difference is perhaps one of the biggest reasons that credit union membership numbers are growing all across the country, and in El Paso. Nationally, according to one industry report, credit unions gained over 2.5 million new members in 2013, a trend that will most likely continue in the near future. “We have a different business model than banks. I have nothing against banks, it is simply a different way of doing business, with a different focus.” Because of their business structure, credit unions are often more able to be flexible with consumers in order to help accommodate unforeseen and unfortunate circumstances.

A good example of this flexible, members first model is the new modular, smaller distribution methods that GECU is deploying into the community. “Members are not working solely nine to five any longer.

They want greater access to our service team, and to their money, during more unconventional hours, as well as many different ways of accessing their accounts and services.” To this end, GECU is building out newer, smaller, neighborhood focused branches that are open 8 a.m. to 8 p.m., and have a service member, as well as kiosks and computer based access for members. Several years ago they also established their relationship with Members Trust, which allows them to have a locally based trust company and deal with trust issues locally.

All of these initiatives are examples of GECU’s continued philosophy of putting their member’s issues first.

In her free time, which is admittedly not a tremendous amount, Crystal shared with me that she is passionate about her family, which in addition to her husband includes two children that live here in El Paso, a daughter who is a nurse, and a son who is about to become a mechanical engineer; and that they enjoy traveling whenever possible.

“We have a short list of places that we would like to see, and when we can, try to use some time each year to take a trip as a family to see one of those places. The world is an amazing place and we love seeing as much of it as we can.” However, as Crystal freely admits, she is a bit of a workaholic, and is focused on continuing GECU’s growth and development as effectively as possible. “I am passionate and committed about GECU, and excited to be in this position as we move forward. It is an honor.”

www.thecitymagazineelp.com

5/31/2014.

35

a GLORIOUS May, 2014

36

www.thecitymagazineelp.com

ROAD May, 2014

to

SUCCESS | By: ERIKA LOPEZ photography by: ROBERT CORRAL |

I

n a business world dominated by men,

ethic and dedication were not limited to her

her home. But, as she sought out help from

one woman soared to the top and

childhood days selling potholders. Eager to

contractors to complete the project in six

forever influenced the city of El Paso.

work, she immersed into several jobs around

weeks, men in the industry ridiculed her for

Patricia Holland-Branch, CEO/owner of

El Paso, a few which included lifeguarding for

her expectations to complete the project in

Facilities Connection Inc. paved the way for

a neighborhood pool, working for local banks,

such a short timeframe. It was her ambitious

business women to achieve equal success

and even at the University of Texas El Paso

nature and as a self-proclaimed “doer” she

with one goal in mind, to eliminate the

working numerous part-time jobs to help

created a team of subcontractors to begin

struggles that she once faced.

pay for her tuition. While attending UTEP,

the project. “I’ve never been able to just

Holland-Branch met her former husband,

know one part of something, whatever it is, I

Patricia “Patty” Holland-Branch was born

Mike Holland, who enlisted into the Army

do. I’m a doer,” said Holland-Branch.

to a Russian father and a Mexican mother

after receiving his degree in civil engineering

in Chihuahua, Mexico where her innate

from UTEP and soon the couple traveled to

It was after she completed the projected

sense of design and creativity flourished at

Germany, where Holland rapidly established

in eight weeks, with the team she had

a young age. It was at 8-years old that her

himself as a contractor. It was there after that

hand selected herself, that she became an

entrepreneurial instinct and benevolent spirit

Mike and Patricia Holland (-Branch) joined

admiration in the industry and those who

enabled her to intricately design potholders

forces, each providing their own unique

once laughed her out of their offices were

to sell to neighbors. “I remember my mother

talent and knowledge. It was her artistic flair

now praising her work. Innately, Holland-

expressing some kind of financial need. I

that led her to subcontract many projects in

Branch took the next step in her career and

went to the little local five and dime store

Germany. From Germany, the couple then

founded Facilities Connection Inc., formerly

and with my allowance I bought a weaving

relocated to Anchorage, Alaska where they

known as PZH Contract Design Inc. in 1987,

machine

expanded their family of five children.

as a commercial interior design company

that

made

potholders,”

said

throughout the El Paso, Cd. Juarez, and

Holland-Branch. With dedication and a sense of business ethics instilled at a young age,

Now having evolved a background in

Mexico region. In a time when women faced

she invested in tools and supplies for her

contracting, Holland-Branch’s keenness to

difficult challenges as business owners,

intricate potholder designs.

expand her knowledge grew immensely,

Holland-Branch also faced the challenge of

prompting her to read design and remodeling

starting a business as a single mother and

As a first grader, Holland-Branch became an

books. In the early 80s, Holland-Branch

divorcee. “It was very difficult as a female

El Pasoan, where she later graduated from

returned to El Paso to purchase property in

to start your own business, especially if you

Austin High School. But, her strong work

the Upper Valley and begin construction on

were a divorcee, because there was no credit

www.thecitymagazineelp.com

37

Pat t y H o l l a n d - B r a n c h

May, 2014

EL PASO TIMES OFFICES - 2013- El Paso, Texas

WEAVER

scott weaver photography

available to you,” she recalls. “As I went

have ever had in the history of the company,”

very proud of what they represent and that

through the steps of growing a business, I

said

is why I named our value statement about

realized I needed to do everything I could to

is critical for a company like Facilities

teamwork, ‘Glory Road.’”

make sure other women didn’t have to go

Connection Inc. and to help them achieve

through the same painful steps.”

success as a team, they have adapted value

Although, Patricia Holland-Branch credits her

statements, one of which states, “do the

team of superior professionals, it is her team

Celebrating more than 20 years in business,

right thing when no one is looking.” But,

who values her work ethic, compassion, and

Patricia Holland-Branch has exuded the

with a core value statement leading back

success. Visiting with the team members

definition of a true trailblazer, a community

to the roots of El Paso, Holland-Branch and

who help execute the day-to-day functions

leader, and a philanthropist for the city of El

her dynamic team follow “Glory Road.”

needed for the business to flourish, it is

Paso. But, in true modesty, Holland-Branch

“Glory Road, as we all know, represents the

highly recognized that each member values

does not credit her success to her own

basketball team that encountered so many

teamwork and the personal relationships

attributes, but rather to her team, who has

difficulties because of their race, but they

that have been developed through the years.

helped build the foundation for a thriving

never let that be a barrier, and neither did

“We’re a great team, a small team, but we

business

family-working

our coach, “Bear” (Haskins),” said Holland-

do a lot of volume and I think it is because we

relationship. “We have the best team that we

Branch and continued, “I have always been

work so closely together, that we are able to

38

and

a

strong

Holland-Branch

proudly.

Teamwork

www.thecitymagazineelp.com

Pat t y H o l l a n d - B r a n c h

May, 2014

“Patty is an exceptional manager. She is an inspiration to women.”

– Nancy Kachel, Accounting Manager

“Patty has provided us all with this great opportunity. We have all the support to get our job done.”

– Cornelia petraitis, project coordinator

accomplish a lot,” said Andrea Ross, Design

working with those who are underserved--

everyone an appreciation of how fortunate

Manager;

Designer;

whether a church, non-profit or individuals.

we are as individuals to have paying jobs

Lead Accredited Professional. “Patty is

We do have the opportunity to get our

and a nice place to work, when there are

an icon in the community. She is a great

hands on a lot of furniture, and in some

people in El Paso who work in underworking

businesswoman and philanthropist. She is

cases buildings need to liquidate what they

environments, but they do it out of love. So

highly regarded amongst the community and

have and they always come to us and say,

to them, their working environment isn’t

her staff.”

‘what should we do with our old furniture?’

important and these are the people we seek

One of the very first things that I always

to help,” said Holland-Branch.

Registered

Interior

If it is one thing that Holland-Branch is

propose is, ‘can we help you find someone

recognized for it is her philanthropic work, not

to donate it to?’” said Holland-Branch. But,

In the last few years, Facilities Connection

only for the city of El Paso, but our sister city

as a strong believer that a company shouldn’t

has committed to a new business model,

Juarez. “Community is a very strong aspect

just reach out to the community through

Traction, an entrepreneurial operating system,

of our business, we truly believe that we

donations, Holland-Branch encourages her

which focuses on aspects such as, vision,

have social, fiscal, and ethical commitment

team to follow suit and volunteer a Saturday

data, prioritization, and setting rocks as

to supporting our community and that is

to help underserved businesses. “This gives

goals to achieve on a quarterly basis. This

www.thecitymagazineelp.com

39

Pat t y H o l l a n d - B r a n c h

May, 2014

JDW INSURANCE - 2009 El Paso, Texas

WEAVER

scott weaver photography

FacilitiesConnection

Taking the Complexity out of Interiors for Over 20 Years

has ultimately lead the company to receive

numerous, regional, professional, and civic

As a community leader representing the

countless annual sales awards from their

awards throughout her career. In 1993 she

city of El Paso, Holland-Branch believes it

manufacturers such as Haworth’s most

was the recipient of the YWCA Reach Award

is essential to contribute to both the local

prestigious award, President’s Club, awarded

for Entrepreneurship and the Rio Grande

and statewide-wide economic development

in 2008 and 2010 for sales achievement,

Purchasing Council 1993 Woman-Owned

initiatives. As a Governor Bush appointee,

quality and best practices. As one of the

Business of the Year. She was the SBA

she served a 4-year term on the Governing

region’s fastest growing companies, Facilities

1994 Minority Women-Owned Business

Board of the Texas Department of Economic

Connection was recognized by the Hispanic

Advocate of the Year followed by an award

Development. She was the chairman of the

Chamber of Commerce with the 2008 Future

in 1995 from The El Paso Times as one of “El

Texas Border Trade Committee and Vice

15 Award. In 2009 she received an award

Paso’s Most Influential Women.” In 2011,

Chairman of the Small Business Advisory

from the Hispanic Chamber of Commerce and

Holland-Branch was inducted into the Junior

Committee. The BTC traveled throughout the

the SBA as the Service Company of the Year.

Achievement Business Hall of Fame, and in

Texas Mexico border communities identifying

2013 she was nominated as one of El Paso

needs unique to border communities and

Inc.’s Women of Impact.

developed formal sister city relationships

Due

to

her

profound

success

and

commitment Holland-Branch has received 40

with each major Mexican border cities. www.thecitymagazineelp.com

May, 2014

Pat t y H o l l a n d - B r a n c h

Extraordinary Care You Deserve Breast Cancer Facts A new breast cancer is diagnosed every 2.5 minutes Over two million breast cancer survivors are alive in the U.S. today Approximately 1,500 male breast cancer cases will be diagnosed this year, and 400 men will die from the disease

Currently, Holland-Branch is completing a

resides with her husband, Dave Branch,

six-year term as a director for the El Paso

both of whom are the proud parents of five

Regional Economic Development Corporation

children and ten grandchildren. Four of their

(REDCO). She serves as Secretary of the

five children own their own companies and

Board and is on the Executive Committee

are successful entrepreneurs. One son is a

and she is in her twelfth year as a Director for

medical doctor specializing in Family Practice.

We are committed to bringing our patients and their doctors the extraordinary care they deserve, both personal and technological.

We take great pride in each and every exam we do.

the El Paso Electric Company.

Patricia

Holland-Branch

has

instilled

in

For the past five years Holland-Branch

her company the values, leadership, and

has been active on the Hispanic Chamber

dedication that El Paso epitomizes. But,

Foundation as Chairman of the Step Up Aim

it is not without her compassion for the

High committee. Through the dedicated

community, immense passion for her work,

work of this committee as well as the entire

profound knowledge, and of course, a

board of directors, thousands of dollars for

tremendously professional and diligent team

scholarships are offered each spring to local

known as family, that Facilities Connection

students in need of financial assistance to

Inc. would not have strived.

2930 North Stanton El Paso, TX 79902

(915) 545-CARE (2273)

attend college. Recently, Holland-Branch was inducted as the newest member of the Gayle

It is not without exemplary women such as,

Greve Hunt School of Nursing, Advisory

Patricia Holland-Branch that women have a

Board of Directors.

foundation to plant the seed to their dreams of becoming business owners. It is because

Holland-Branch continues to make a positive

of her empowerment that women can strive

impact on El Paso where she currently

for success in a once male-dominated field.

www.thecitymagazineelp.com

41

MISS E L PA S O T X 2 01 4

MISS E L PA S O TEEN T X 2 01 4

JUNE 20-21 • UTEP MAGOFFIN AUDITORIUM

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Ella Blu

el paso magazine

W MEN IN BUSINESS P R O F I L E S

Jennifer Cedillo MARKETING MANAGER

Jennifer Cedillo is definitely a girl on the go.

“Every one of us at the dealership is there

Cell phone in one hand, coffee in the other, and

to give the customer 100% satisfaction.

laptop open, is generally how you can find her

Customer service is not a department, it

any day of the week. From writing television

is everyone’s job.” At events, or even just

and radio scripts, sending out press releases,

walking around the dealership, Jennifer is

coordinating

“We all have equal opportunity to learn, train, and to be promoted.

Advancement at our dealerships is limitless.”

product

always introducing herself to her customers

launches, or attending various charity and social

and making friends with them. “Whenever I

functions, Jennifer is 24/7 as the marketing

see customers, I like greeting them by name.

organization that hold high level positions.

manager for Shamaley Ford, Shamaley Buick

If I see a man or woman in uniform, I always

More women should look into this industry.”

GMC, and BMW-MINI of El Paso.

thank them for their service. My father was

sales

events

and

in the Army, and that’s what brought us to

When asked how one can advance in the

A proud New Mexico State Aggie, Jennifer

El Paso. I’m proud that all three dealerships

automotive industry Jennifer cites attitude

worked in advertising sales for general market

support our troops. We make every effort to

at the top of the list. “Attitude is everything.

and Spanish language television as well as

let them know they are special and we are

Nothing can stop a person with the right

newspaper print, prior to getting started in the

proud of them”.

attitude, and nothing can help someone with the wrong attitude. When you have a

automotive industry. A mentor in media told her about an opportunity to work in marketing

Jennifer says that while there aren’t many

great attitude, it’s infectious. Have the right

at the dealership and she took the leap.

women in the automotive industry, she

attitude and the right opportunities will come

Four years later, Jennifer went from selling

doesn’t feel limited at all. “We all have

to you. That’s what happened for me and

advertising to car dealers to buying for them.

equal opportunity to learn, train, and to be

that’s what got me where I am today.”

While each dealership Jennifer represents a

promoted. Advancement at our dealerships

different make, the overall goal is the same.

is limitless. We have several women in our

44 | SPECIAL ADVERTISING

Terry Montes BMW MINI OF EL PASO

“I’ve learned that it’s not enough to want something, you have to be prepared to receive it.”

Terry Montes has worked in the automobile

specialized auto repair, genuine parts and expert

motivation, and in turn, I encourage others to

industry since she was 17 years old.

service. They pride themselves on carrying

be courageous.”

Beginning as a secretary for her brother,

everything you and your family may need to

Larry Montes at Mission Chevrolet, she

transform your daily drive into a joy ride.

On top of quality customer service Terry prides herself on being a great team builder.

quickly fell in love with the business of cars.

In no time at all, she even began receiving

“I’ve learned that it’s not enough to want

“As a woman, I’m a natural at building teams,”

the “Top Sales Person” award month after

something, you have to be prepared to

explained Terry. “I’ve always believed that

month, and soon after was quickly promoted

receive it,” said Terry. “Early in my life, my

good teamwork leads to success. Everyone

to Special Finance Manager.

mother instilled in me that I could do or be

who works with me knows how each

anything I wanted. My father taught me that

individual in the company contributes to the

Fourteen years later, Terry is still in the

you can’t beat a person who never gives up.

bigger picture, which makes our business

automobile industry, working as the General

Whenever I have a fear of making a change,

even more successful. I make it my priority

Sales Manager of BMW and Mini of El Paso.

I remind myself that life is short and I have to

to take the time to consult and listen to all my

Together she and her team offer the best in

do what I love. This kind of thinking fuels my

employees and customers.”

BMW of El Paso | 6318 Montana Ave. | El Paso, Texas 79925 | (915) 778-9381 | bmwofelpaso.com By: MEAGAN KINLEY photographed by: STEVE GARDUNO

SPECIAL ADVERTISING | 45

Shamaley Ford “In a male prominent industry, it’s great to have the support and motivation from upper management and our corporation to empower women to take up active roles within the automotive industry. That’s one thing I have high respect for, not limiting your employees to truly succeed.”

– REYNA GUTIERREZ BUSINESS DEVELOPMENT MANAGER

46 | SPECIAL ADVERTISING

On the corner of I-10 and Lee Trevino, the

dealership for sales and in customer service

both within the dealership and within the

women of Shamaley Ford are as giving to the

with a long list of veteran employees who

organization.

community as they are to their customers.

have been with the store for many years.

“In a male prominent industry, it’s great

From roles as general sales manager, to finance director, human resources to

“There has been many changes within

to have the support and motivation from

business

to

our industry, it is blessing to have had the

upper management and our corporation to

warranty administrator, there are several

opportunity to be part of some of those

empower women to take up active roles

women who represent the dealership in

changes and to work for a company that

within the automotive industry. That’s one

senior level positions. Several of the staff

believes in their employees and their

thing I have high respect for, not limiting

members work on weekends to coordinate

success,” says Christina Velasco, an 18 year

your employees to truly succeed.” Reyna

parades and events, and are always on hand

veteran who holds the position of senior

Gutierrez --- Business Development Manager.

to help with the annual Susan G. Komen

human resources coordinator and executive

Race for the Cure.

assistant for Shamaley Ford.

Shamaley Ford sells cars, trucks, and SUVs,

The support staff, working in accounting,

transparency. Blanca Serna, Service Cashier,

as well as offers a service maintenance

cashiering, finance, and customer service all

“We are all friends, and I truly enjoy coming

department and a collision center. They serve

help make Shamaley Ford a top dealership

to work every day. Everyone is so friendly,

customers from all over El Paso, Las Cruces,

for cars, trucks, collision, and service. Many

and I wouldn’t want to work anywhere else.”

and beyond, and have remained a top

have been promoted and have advanced

development,

comptroller

Shamaley Ford and its employees believe in teamwork, integrity, professionalism, and

Shamaley Ford | 11301 Gateway Blvd W. | El Paso, TX 79936 | (915) 591-8600 | www.shamaleyford.com Photographed by: STEVE GARDUNO

SPECIAL ADVERTISING | 47

48 | SPECIAL ADVERTISING

“Our team is committed to facilitating and expediting real estate transactions and maximizing savings and profits for our clients.”

In and amongst the vast and growing city of El Paso is a home market,

Entering the real estate industry as a single mother at the age of 22

which unlike those in other markets has experienced life, despite the

years old, Daisy had a very strategic goal in mind. “I wanted to build

setbacks in both national and global economies. When other markets

a business to ensure financial freedom for my daughter and myself,”

tragically crashed and hit rock bottom, El Paso’s merely lulled; when

Daisy shared. “I remember running through my favorite neighborhoods

others struggled to rebound, El Paso picked up right where it left off

and envisioning how well I’d market homes I saw that were for sale,

and simply gained momentum placing it in a top spot of the “United

while admiring well-known top producers at that time.”

States’ fastest growing cities” list. Needless to say, El Paso has been fortunate and competitive despite each impediment along the way.

Daisy’s dreams have manifested into realizations and those realizations have manifested into an accumulation of savings for her clients.

However, it must be assumed that as the nature of the market’s

“This year, HomeGirl has generated $77,500 in combined savings

competitiveness increases, so should the level of ingenuity and

and over-average profits for buyers and sellers due to marketing and

creativity of El Paso’s Realtors. Breaking the mold and setting new

negotiation,” Daisy explained. “The goal is to finish the year with

precedents, Daisy Aguirre, licensed Realtor with Keller Williams, has

$200,000 extra dollars for my clients. I feel that is so powerful. In five

begun “painting El Paso pink” with her innovative “HomeGirl” brand.

years time, I’d love to see HomeGirl control 10% of El Paso’s Market Share. These are huge goals.”

“Our team is committed to facilitating and expediting real estate transactions and maximizing savings and profits for our clients,”

Paving a way for herself in an industry that is both ever changing

explained Daisy. “I simply love what I do. Real Estate is my art and

and fierce, Daisy ambitiously tackles real estate with a fervor

HomeGirl embodies the love, representation and fiduciary duty to each

and excitement, which is both infectious and inspiring. “Passion,

and every client. Caring for clients translates into numbers for them, in

knowledge, creativity and innovation is what drives me towards

savings and maximum profits in a real estate transaction. I bring clarity

providing my clients with the best possible experience. The only

to my clients on the way the market works and assist them on how to

possible way to see this come to life is to create all of this from my

maximize their profit when selling their investment. With that, I spare

heart. Learning personal development, consistency, and self discipline

no expense on my own education, top-notch marketing & creative

is what has taught me to master my art and design my profession to

networking. I’m so proud of the brand. I handpick each detail.”

its strongest potential as a solid foundation that won’t break under economic struggles.”

Daisy Aguirre, Realtor | Keller Williams Realty | (915) 820-9504 | elphomegirl@gmail.com | www.facebook.com/daisy.aguirre.39

By: CANDACE VASQUEZ photographed by: ROBERT CORRAL

SPECIAL ADVERTISING | 49

“It’s my goal that when clients walk out of my office that they have a smile on their face and feel at ease.”

ST

I

VE

BE

– IDA GOMEZ

LU X U R Y A U TO M

OT

Ida Gomez Karla Rimada 50 | SPECIAL ADVERTISING

“I love interacting with my clients and seeing the excitement that they have when they get into their Mercedes for the first time.” – KARLA RIMADA

Ida Gomez

Karla Rimada

You’ve stepped onto the Mercedes Benz of El Paso showroom floor,

Epitomizing the very idea of luxury and providing tangibility to the

test driven a few of their many beautifully designed and well-equipped

level of one’s deserved success, Mercedes Benz has been a leading

models, fallen in love with “the one”, and enthusiastically grab the

name in German auto manufacturing since 1926. Known throughout

keys and head out onto the open road…it’s just you, your beautiful

the automobile industry for their engineering ingenuity and the sleek

new luxury car and the wind in your hair. Well, almost. While the

sophistication which is prevalent throughout their fleet, Mercedes

majority of your visit at Mercedes Benz of El Paso will be composed

Benz has paved a road which has lead them to their place as a leading

of pleasure, it should be said that there will be a small margin for

franchise amongst a vast array of luxury brand competitors.

business that will need to be accounted for as well. Fortunately, the process is made simple by the capable and knowledgeable finance

Providing assistance to those who are ready for change, Karla Rimada,

staff who work hand-in-hand with you to ensure that the best and

Sales Consultant at Mercedes Benz of El Paso, began her career

most effective financing options are found and set in place.

with the dealership six years ago when she was employed as their receptionist. Realizing her own level of success and potential, Karla has

Heading the finance department at Mercedes Benz of El Paso is Ida

climbed the ranks and is now one of the dealership’s youngest sales

Gomez, Finance Manager for the dealership. A self-proclaimed car

consultants and has consistently raised the bar as their top salesperson.

lover and native El Pasoan, Ida has worked with the Hoy Fox family

“Mercedes Benz is a great franchise to work with,” shared Rimada. “I

of dealerships since 2000 and with the Mercedes Benz franchise for

love everything that it represents. My favorite part about my job is that

the past three and a half years. And whether it’s explaining the various

I love interacting with my clients and seeing the excitement that they

service packages available or finding the appropriate financing option,

have when they get into their Mercedes for the first time.”

Ida ensures that each client will be treated with integrity. “It’s my goal that when clients walk out of my office that they have a smile on their

Known for their innovative safety features, Mercedes Benz takes

face and feel at ease” shared Gomez. “We strive to go the extra mile

comfort and luxury to new heights. “The car sells itself,” explained

for all of our clients and exceed their expectations.”

Rimada. “All of the safety features we offer are standard on a Mercedes -- unlike with other brands where the safety features are add-ons and are sold to you at an extra cost. Mercedes Benz definitely lives up to their slogan of ‘The best or nothing’.”

Mercedes Benz of El Paso | 1122 Airway Blvd | El Paso, TX 79925 | (915) 778-5341 | www.hoyfoxmercedesbenz.com

By: CANDACE VASQUEZ photographed by: TY NAVARRETTE

SPECIAL ADVERTISING | 51

Danii Sedillo REALTOR, ABR, CRS, , SFR, GRI KELLER WILLIAMS REALTY EL PASO

Danni Sedillo is invested in her client’s life, whether it’s a new home for a first time home buyer, heroes in uniform, or a retirement home, she makes sure her clients are settled in from every aspect.

After moving to El Paso eight years ago,

short sales and foreclosure, works with

Technicalities aside, Sedillo is invested in her

Danii Sedillo has transformed her passion for

investors as part of her business and is

client’s life, whether it’s a new home for a

architectural design and her love of people

also specialized in new home construction

first time home buyer, heroes in uniform,

into a successful career. Sedillo provides

and currently represents two builders in El

or a retirement home, she makes sure her

El Pasoans with a personable approach for

Paso. Sedillo is a well-rounded REALTOR

clients are settled in from every aspect, and

finding the perfect home through integrity

who can help with any real estate related

is available seven days a week for any of her

and trust. Really understanding the ins and

needs and questions and has an extensive

clients’ needs.

outs of business, Sedillo has taken a more

background and expertise in the housing

empathetic route to connect with her clients,

arena. Her connection to trustworthy and

listening to their needs, hopes and dreams.

dependent home contractors, lenders and title companies has created an easy flowing

Danii

Sedillo

began

her

real

estate

process for everyone involved.

career in residential resale, is certified in Danii Sedillo | 6006 N Mesa Ste 110 | (915) 929-2755 | daniisedillo@yahoo.com | www.daniisedillo.com 52 | SPECIAL ADVERTISING

By: LAURA WERTHMANN photographed by: ROBERT CORRAL

Monica Salaiz Narvaez STRATEGIC WEALTH ADVISORS

“For me, it’s about doing the right thing and being able to meet so many nice people.

It’s about getting a sense of how important it is to preserve the wealth you do have and grow wealth for the future.”

In the financial realm, the only trend that can

Monica Salaiz Narvaez CFP®, CLTC, a Strategic

Driven by the belief that “creativity is

be predicted is the expectation and knowledge

Wealth

and

necessary in preparing a unique plan for each

that markets will undoubtedly experience their

Financial Planner, has been in the Financial

family and person,” Narvaez is constantly

fair share of cyclical highs and lows, that a good

Advising field for 25 years. A graduate of

inspired and energized by the relationships

bull market will inevitably be followed by a bear

Loretto Academy and UTEP, Monica believes

she’s built with her clients. “For me, it’s about

market and that periods of growth and recession

that “all work is inherently about making a

doing the right thing and being able to meet so

will assuredly arise various times throughout our

difference.” “After graduating, I went to work

many nice people. It’s about getting a sense of

lifetime. Armed with this awareness, the Financial

for a lending company,” shared Narvaez. “I

how important it is to preserve the wealth you

Planners at Strategic Wealth Advisors have

later came to realize that I wanted to be on

do have and try to grow wealth for the future.

been tasked with disarming the complexities of

the side of helping save rather than borrow. It

It is about understanding that risk and reward

the market for their clients in order to achieve

was at that point that I sought out a career in

are important considerations and helping you

financial preservation, growth and legacy.

Financial Advising.”

realize something that’s too good to be true.”

Advisors

Founding

Partner

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

Strategic Wealth Advisors | Terrace Gardens Office Park | 600 Sunland Park, Building One, Ste 100 | (915) 532-8885 | www.sw-advisors.com By: CANDACE VASQUEZ photographed by: ROBERT CORRAL

SPECIAL ADVERTISING | 53

Sandra Terrazas, PT, MBA

SPECTRUM FITNESS AND SPECTRUM THERAPY CONSULTANTS “Opening Spectrum Fitness is truly a dream come true for me, I’m doing this to provide a service that will change and transform lives.”

Sandra Terrazas, physical therapist and owner

monthly. We have created an environment of

as consultants,” who truly care about you

of Spectrum Therapy Consultants, will be

medical expertise where men and women of

and your fitness needs. “Our mission is to

opening El Paso’s newest gym, Spectrum

all ages can come, set attainable goals with a

incorporate health, wellness and fitness

Fitness in late May, as well as their 3rd physical

qualified personal trainer, and get the results

together in an injury-safe environment to

therapy office in Central El Paso. Her new and

they deserve,” said Terrazas.

enable true lifestyle change” said Terrazas.

wellness-fitness will strive for preventative

On top of the individualized personal training

Spectrum Fitness

health rather than reactive health, which will

sessions Spectrum will also offer exciting

Central – 1700 Cliff, B-101 | (915) 881-7303

serve as an investment in one’s health.

athletic camps this summer to get you and

innovative business model of rehabilitation-

your family ready for any challenge that

Spectrum Therapy Consultants

“Today people have their own struggles when

comes your way—from Law Enforcement

it comes to fitness. It is intimidating to enroll in

Camps designed to prepare professionals for

a gym and when there’s a lack of direction on

the most grueling PT and work-related tests,

how to use the equipment it ultimately leads

to Women-Only Boot Camps, as well as Prep

to failure to exercise as they aren’t getting the

Camps for kids to keep them in top shape for

outcomes they desire. At Spectrum Fitness, a

the coming fall sports season.

Central – 1700 Cliff, A-101

In addition vitals, weight, body fat composition,

Altogether Spectrum Fitness “will house

www.spectrumfitness.org

and body mass index will be monitored

trained professionals with physical therapists

www.spectrumtherapyconsultants.com

West – 7430 Remcon, Bldg. A (915) 231-2285 Northeast – 9870 Gateway North, Ste. B-6 (915) 313-4510

pre-health and nutrition screening will be done.

54 | SPECIAL ADVERTISING

By: MEAGAN KINELY photographed by: ROBERT CORRAL

WestStar Bank At WestStar Bank, the driving philosophy

greatest sense of accomplishment comes from

“It’s a privilege to assist my clients and

of the Wealth Management Department

not simply meeting my client’s goals, but in

their families in navigating difficult financial

is one of teamwork. With specialists in all

knowing we made a positive difference in their

decisions, especially during times when they

wealth management disciplines, the locally-

lives,” shares Colleen.

are most vulnerable,” says Tamara.

headquartered department leverages their advantages to employ a holistic, team

For the department’s business clientele,

Colleen Marusich

approach with their clients. This methodology

commercial

Senior Vice President, Client Advisor,

affords clients a family-like relationship with

Elsa Stoerner take the reins in developing

CExP™, CTFA

staff specializing in the areas most relevant

customized lending solutions. “We facilitate

Wealth Management Division

to their situation.

a key wealth management component

lenders

Arlene

Carroll

and

by providing clients the liquidity to make

Tamara Gladkowski

Integral forces in this approach are Colleen

quick decisions and seize opportunities as

Senior Vice President, Senior Trust Officer

Marusich,

Arlene

they become available,” explains Arlene.

Wealth Management Division

Carroll and Elsa Stoerner. With roughly 100

Additionally, “By utilizing our personalized

years of combined experience, they bring

approach to determine a client’s needs, we

Arlene Carroll

their specialized knowledge to identify and

can form a strategic vision that best delivers

Senior Vice President

address the complex financial needs of

the most appropriate solution,” adds Elsa.

Commercial Lending

Tamara

Gladkowski,

individual and business clients.

As a fiduciary specialist, Tamara Gladkowski is

Elsa Stoerner

As a highly regarded wealth management

known for her professionalism and devotion

Vice President

professional, Colleen Marusich takes her role as

to delivering an exceptional client experience.

Commercial Lending

client advisor personally. Specializing in life event

Specializing in trust and estate administration,

transitions and business succession planning,

she works with her clients to implement

she strives to exceed her clients’ expectations

effective estate planning strategies to manage

of what a financial advisor can do for them. “My

their assets now and for future generations.

By: RUTH GIFFORD photographed by: ROBERT CORRAL

SPECIAL ADVERTISING | 55

Mariel Galbiati FIG HOME

“Everyone has their own style and I really take that into consideration when looking for products. I look for different patterns, textures, and design, but most importantly quality.”

An idea for a retail business that was planted

style and I really take that into consideration

artists, designers, and authors. Galbiati’s goal

and nurtured for quite some time, blossomed

when looking for products. I look for different

is to provide her customers with great design

into a gift and home décor shop located

patterns, textures, and design, but most

and affordability and where creative aficionados

in Kern place. Mariel Galbiati envisioned a

importantly quality.” Galbiati travels to home

or those curious about new ways to design a

different shopping concept for El Paso and

décor and accessory markets around the US

home, can have a place to shop.

with an amazing eye for design, the owner

to hand select every piece inside Fig Home.

Fig

of Fig Home, describes it as, “a place where

Home

will

celebrate

its

one-year

one will find something they didn’t know

With compelling support from her family and

anniversary this May with the addition of

they were looking for and become inspired

friends, Galbiati says Fig Home has gotten much

new lines and products. Galbiati describes

to do something totally different.” There

esteem from its welcoming neighbors and has

her journey as a learning process, putting

are exquisite accessories and quality home

quickly won over Fig Home regulars with her

herself and her ideas into creating something

adornments such as rugs, frames, candles,

hand-picked home articles. Fig Home also hosts

beautifully unique.

coasters, vases, coffee tables, books and

and collaborates on various events that help

more. Galbiati stated, “Everyone has their own

build the community and promote local El Paso

Fig Home | 2609B N. Stanton St. 79902 | (915) 532-3278 | fighome13@gmail.com | www.instagram.com/FigHome 56 | SPECIAL ADVERTISING

By: LAURA WERTHMANN photographed by: ROBERT CORRAL

Maria Zampini, MBA, Chief Operating Officer UNIVERSITY MEDICAL CENTER OF EL PASO “We provide modern facilities, state-of-the-art technology, all-private rooms and high quality care, which has resulted in high patient satisfaction scores.”

“I began working in patient relations 20 years

Following a massive $350 million expansion

“We provide modern facilities, state-of-the-art

ago at what was then Thomason Hospital,”

and renovation at UMC’s main campus in

technology, all-private rooms and high quality care,

says Maria Zampini, native El Pasoan and

2011, an initiative that was largely overseen

which has resulted in high patient satisfaction

Chief Operating Officer for University Medical

by Zampini, the Medical Center is now

scores,” says Zampini. “I am proud to give back

Center of El Paso. “I interacted with patients

focused on providing quality healthcare

to the community where I grew up and to help

on a daily basis and was able to hear about

outside the confines of the hospital’s central

create a healthcare system that will enable El

their experiences and the kind of help they

location. UMC’s next expansion is a $152

Pasoans to receive high quality affordable care.

needed. I did that everyday for many years,

million project that will expand UMC’s

Our goal is to expand our services by creating

which gave me an important perspective for

outpatient system and bring healthcare

primary care centers close to patients’ homes.

the work that I do today. I now see how every

closer to patients’ homes. Zampini, who

We don’t merely want to be the center of acute

decision that is made impacts each patient’s

holds both a BBA and an MBA from UTEP,

care, that’s why we are focusing on creating a

healthcare experience and the quality of care

will again oversee the construction work as

comprehensive healthcare system that provides

that we provide to them and their families.”

well as the Outpatient Center operations.

patients with the right care at the right time in the appropriate setting. That will improve patient outcomes and lead to a healthier community.”

University Medical Center of El Paso

| 4815 Alameda Ave | El Paso, TX 79905 | (915) 544-1200 | www.umcelpaso.org

By: CANDACE VASQUEZ photographed by: ROBERT CORRAL

SPECIAL ADVERTISING | 57

Linda Medrano GRADUATE GEMOLOGIST

B E S T J E W ELE R

S

“It’s the excitement of new jewelry and knowing that I get to make people happy. Jewelry is a happy experience and we get to partake in that every day.”

A jewelry lover not solely by trade, Linda

each day, Linda explains, “It’s the excitement

Ortega, Sales Manager for Jewel Gallery.

Medrano, Graduate Gemologist, was raised

of new jewelry and knowing that I get to make

“We have customers that come into the

from a young age to appreciate the all-

people happy. Jewelry brings people happiness

store in gym clothes, others with pets and

encompassing world of both antique and

-- whether it’s a newly divorced woman buying

then we have some who are dressed to the

modern jewelry. In 1984, Linda’s entrepreneurial

herself a new ring, a soon-to-be engaged couple

nines. Either way, they are all treated with

side ignited the way to align her whimsical

or a gentleman buying his wife an anniversary

the same level of customer service. This is

passion for sparkle with that of sensibility in the

gift, jewelry is a happy experience and we get

why we have the most loyal clientele who

form of Estate Jewelers, a successful business

to partake in that every day.”

have followed Linda for 30 years.”

aptly known as Jewel Gallery. “We grew from

Jewel Gallery operates as a boutique-style

Bringing “unique and extraordinary jewelry

a small 1200 square foot building into a 4000

jewelry store that centers on providing

from all over the world at astonishing prices.”

square foot building,” shared Medrano.

individualized

that has grown and evolved into what is now

Describing what continues to fuel her passion

surpasses

Jewel Gallery also provides a wide variety of

expectation. “Our customer service exceeds

jewelry-related services such as appraisals

beyond the call of duty,” shares Celina

and on-site repair services.

service

that

Jewel Gallery | 7134 N Mesa St. | El Paso, TX 79912 | (915) 845-7740 | www.jewelgalleryep.com | www.facebook.com/jewelgalleryinc 58 | SPECIAL ADVERTISING

By: CANDACE VASQUEZ photographed by: ROBERT CORRAL

Martha Vera & Rosie Oaxaca IMAGING EL PASO Imaging El Paso was created when sisters

for osteoporosis and BRCA testing for the

Imaging El Paso works closely with local

Martha Vera and Rosie Oaxaca, decided to

detection of breast cancer genes BRCA 1

surgeons, other hospitals in El Paso and Las

open a women’s center in 2004. There is

and 2. Knowing that you are BRCA 1 or BRCA

Cruces, and MD Anderson to bring seamless

a history of breast cancer in the family and

2 positive allows you and your physician to

care to their patients.

after years of strife and working with cancer

make decisions to prevent breast cancer by

diagnostics, Vera decided to be the first to

more frequent visits to your doctor for check-

Imaging El Paso’s environment maintains

bring digital mammography to El Paso. With

ups, more frequent imaging, mammograms

a tranquil and comforting atmosphere for

an innovative mindset towards the industry’s

and MRIs, or to make the decision to get a

all their trusting patients. While touching

changes, Vera hoped to raise the standards

preventive mastectomy and hysterectomy.

on the employee’s customer service, Vera

for mammography diagnostics.

BRCA testing at Imaging El Paso is more

describes the effectiveness in reaching out to

affordable to those that would like to take

their patients, “We want to make their day.

the test.

We want to make sure we can alleviate any

Digital mammography is established as the

heartache or nervousness they might have.”

gold standard that creates more readable images to detect any irregularities, as opposed

Derma Vera Solutions is housed in the same

to film. Digital mammography provides much

building as Imaging El Paso. It was started to

Special thanks goes out to Dr. and Mrs. Hugo

less radiation to your breast.

help breast cancer survivors and those currently

Isuani along with all of the clinic’s patients,

on chemotherapy or radiation therapy to take

referring doctors, friends and family who

Along with cancer diagnostics, Imaging El

care of their skin. They also see other clients for

have supported them throughout their 10

Paso also provides ultrasounds, ultrasound

facials. The skin care products are safe and pure

years in business.

guided breast biopsies, bone density testing

for sensitive and cancer therapy skin.

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

SPECIAL ADVERTISING | 59

Ellen Gulbas VANITIES

“Owning this business has been incredible because of all the amazing people I have met along the way. Although it’s hard work and requires lots of time, it never feels that way since I love what I’m doing.”

Nestled comfortably alongside a bustling street

their customers. “We have a beautiful Pandora

basis and regard them as our friends,” shared

on El Paso’s west side is El Paso’s widely

Shop in shop, and carry many other lines

Gulbas. “Our philosophy is to make everyone

known and highly treasured Vanities Jewelry

of jewelry that are popular throughout the

happy with a gift or purchase and we always

and Gifts boutique. “Owning this business

country,” explains Gulbas. “We research the

provide complimentary gift wrap as a bonus.

has been incredible because of all the amazing

market and try to stay on trend with fashion and

Plus, giving back to the El Paso community

people I have met along the way,” explained

gifts that appeal to a wide range of consumers.

is a huge part of our mission to succeed. We

Ellen Gulbas, owner of Vanities. “Although it’s

We carry bath and body lines, purses, clothes,

are proud of the thousands of donations we

hard work and requires lots of time, it never

shoes, baby gifts and home accessories.”

have made to various organizations to help them raise funds.” Born and raised in El

feels that way since I love what I’m doing.”

With a focus on a high standard of excellence

Paso, Gulbas strongly feels it is vital to help

Known for the diversity of their inventory,

in customer service at the forefront, Vanities

our local schools and non-profit organizations.

Gulbas describes her boutique as a unique

is known for their unique approach. “We

shop that offers a wide range of choices to

work to know our customers on a first name

Vanities Jewelry & Gifts | 7933 N. Mesa, Suite N | El Paso, TX 79932 | (915) 584-1183 | www.vanitiesjewelryandgifts.com

60 | SPECIAL ADVERTISING

By: CANDACE VASQUEZ photographed by: ROBERT CORRAL

Jennifer Stroh REALTOR CENTURY 21 THE EDGE

Celebrating 21 years with the Century 21 system!

Having an instinctive and personal approach

Along with new homebuyers, Stroh is a

Born and raised in Walsenburg, Colorado,

to life changing decisions, Jennifer Stroh

relocation

many

Stroh moved to El Paso right after high

is a trusted REALTOR® with 21 years of

Relocation

various

school and fell in love with our enchantingly

experience at Century 21. Stroh enjoys

Relocation

with

passionate city and has adopted it as her one

helping first time buyers through the process

referral clients to help them through the

and only home. Stroh has built her business

of acquiring a new home from the moment

nerves of a relocation move. Stroh states,

these past 21 years and was awarded the

they step into her office until she hands them

“I show them things that let them see that

Centurion Award in 2012, to accompany her

their keys. With her welcoming invitation,

there is much more to El Paso…I help each

Presidential title with the Greater El Paso

Stroh takes the nerves out of any situation

person decide what’s good for them.” With

Association of Realtors. Stroh is happy to

for her clients to help them find a comfortable

such an accreditation, Stroh is accustomed to

go the extra mile for all of her clients, to

home environment in the future.

touring El Paso and showing off what the city

take care of any problem, and feels that her

has to offer, not just the home they will live in.

positive client feedback makes her position

specialist

maintaining

Certifications Companies

and

with

works

as a realtor that much more substantial.

Jennifer Stroh | 1201 Airway Blvd., Suite C-3 | Cell (915) 588-2338 | Toll Free (800) 346-4234 | Jennifer.Stroh@Century21.com www.ahome4u2day.com | www.JenniferStroh.com By: LAURA WERTHMANN photographed by: ROBERT CORRAL

SPECIAL ADVERTISING | 61

Wendy Rivera, R.N., B.S.N. ELITE LUXURY CARE, LLC., MED SPA “We are in business to allow the inner beauty and confidence of our clients to shine through.”

Baylor

After relocating to El Paso from Houston

clients’ expectations. We also offer the ‘TLC

University with a B.S.N, has been a nurse

to be with her husband, Wendy is excited

with ELC’ post-plastic surgery care service to

for 11 years, working in several fields of

to bring Elite Luxury Care and the quality it

ensure a smooth recovery in the privacy of

medicine, including intensive care, oncology,

provides to the Sun City. Opening in early

our client’s homes.”

plastic surgery, and medical spas. In 2007,

May, this posh new business will offer

unhappy with deficits in the medical spa

all the amenities the original does to its

Elite Luxury Care stands out from its

industry, Wendy decided to start her own

Houston clients and even more. “We offer

competitors with its focused personalized

business and Elite Luxury Care, LLC., Med

an array of services, including injectables,

service. “My goal is to ensure our clients are

Spa was born. “I realized that many peoples’

facials, and our exclusive inch-loss system

treated like royalty every step of the way,”

concerns were going unnoticed,” explained

with the Contour Lite system,” said Wendy.

said Wendy. “Everyone is unique, and we

Wendy. “Then one day it dawned on me—I

“Whether people want to look 10 or even 20

do everything we can to customize every

can create a company that addresses these

years younger, reduce stress, melt away fat

treatment.”

concerns, and even exceeds clients’ needs

rapidly, or all of the above, we have exclusive

for improved customer service.”

technology and products that will exceed our

Wendy

Rivera,

a

graduate

of

Elite Luxury Care, LLC., Med Spa | (915) 440-0048 | www.eliteluxurycare.com 62 | SPECIAL ADVERTISING

By: LAURA WERTHMANN photographed by: ROBERT CORRAL

Viannka Barroso

V & X BOUTIQUE

“We wanted to make it (V & X Boutique) an affordable place to shop, but still give you unique clothing, and that experience of shopping at a boutique.”

With aspirations to create a cutting-edge

experience where the shopper is taken care

attracted to, and understands their needs

clothing store in El Paso, Viannka Barroso

of and appreciated throughout their visit.

stating, “I value the relationship we build with our customers.”

and her business partner, Christian Garcia, followed their passion and opened V & X

V & X Boutique is unique in the fact that it has

Boutique. Their specific style is tailored to

a men’s clothing section just as big as the

To get the word out, V & X Boutique has

fit a number of fashionistas on a budget.

women’s. Their men’s selection is filled with

loaned their clothes to organizations to help

Barroso states, “We wanted to make it (V

originality and trend setting pieces for those

raise funds, and has participated in fashion

& X Boutique) an affordable place to shop,

willing to make a statement. Their women’s

shows to boost clientele. The newly sprung

but still give you unique clothing, and that

arena contains a trendy or “bohemian chic”

boutique is starting small but hopes to

experience of shopping at a boutique.” With

feel for any fashion enthusiast on a budget.

develop a following once El Paso realizes the

the young professional and university student

Barroso says she’s learned so much from

affordability and quality of the fashionable

in mind, Barroso creates a more personable

her customers on the type of style they’re

pieces they have to offer.

3800 N. Mesa B2 | (915) 351-8692 | vnxboutique@gmail.com | www.vnxboutique.com | Instagram: vandxboutique | Facebook V&X Boutique By: LAURA WERTHMANN photographed by: TOMMIE MORELOS

SPECIAL ADVERTISING | 63

Jennifer Ibarra BLUSH BOUTIQUE & SPA

“Our spa and boutique is warm and comfortable and we always welcome new clients to enjoy our unique setting and their time spent here.”

In a world filled with an overabundance of

beginnings, Blush began its operations out

Known

toxicity and stresses, it stands to reason

of Jennifer’s Kern Place home. After one

packages and treatments, Blush also seeks

that a little pampering is not only a nice little

short year, Blush outgrew its initial setting,

to stay abreast of the latest technology in

luxury now and again but perhaps, more

calling for a move to their current location on

the ever-evolving skin care industry. “We

appropriately, a necessity. Offering a wide

Montana. “Our spa and boutique is warm

are the only spa who carries an organic skin

range of services, which include massages,

and comfortable and we always welcome

care line, Eminence Organics from Hungary,

facials, organic spray tans, body wraps,

new clients to enjoy our unique setting and

as well as the only boutique that carries Free

waxing and acupuncture services, among

their time spent here,” Ibarra explained.

People clothing,” Ibarra stated. “We provide

others, Blush Boutique and Spa is a little

“We really do enjoy working and interacting

the quickest Brazilian waxes in town and are

piece of necessitative heaven found tucked

with people on a personal level to help them

the only certified spa for Dermaplaning and

away in Montana’s Historic District.

achieve beauty inside and out. Our business

Dermapen. On top of all that, our therapists

philosophy centers around working hard

are trained a minimum of four times a year from the industry’s leading educators.”

calling

and being nice to people -- it is a mindset

as an esthetician while living in Austin

we follow everyday and is a big part of our

founded Blush in March 2010. With humble

identity as a business.”

Jennifer

Ibarra

who

found

her

for

providing

one-of-a-kind

spa

Blush Boutique & Spa | 1122 Montana Ave. #100 | El Paso, TX 79902 | (915) 247-8747 | www.blushskin.com 64 | SPECIAL ADVERTISING

By: CANDACE VASQUEZ photographed by: ROBERT CORRAL

Corina Vega

C & L PLUMBING SUPPLY CO. “This is a family business. My mom worked very hard to make this company all it is today and I want to keep her tradition and legacy going.”

If someone were to ask you what a typical

the management of the company to Corina

Price Pfister, Rheem Water Heaters, Chicago

plumbing shop looked like, you may not picture

after her recent retirement.

Faucets, Zurn, Sloan and more. We also deliver.

Our customer service is truly the best.”

a staff of knowledgeable women working behind the counter—but that is exactly what

“This has always been my dream. Since I was

you would find if you were to step into C & L

13 years old, I would come in and sweep or help

C & L Plumbing serves El Paso, Juárez, and

Plumbing Supply Co., Inc. Corina Vega and her

count inventory—today I’m still here and I love

the surrounding areas. The company hopes

team at C & L offer the best plumbing supply

it,” explained Corina. “My mother has taught

to continue to grow and serve the customers

the city of El Paso has to offer.

me all I know and I want to make her proud.”

and city that have been loyal to them for the

Corina has worked for C & L for the last 25

Today the company carries the best in plumbing

years. Her grandfather founded the company

supply. “We sell mostly to residential builders,

back in 1972. When he passed away, the

commercial real estate as well as individuals

company passed to Corina’s grandmother

completing

who then gave it to her mother who handed

“We sell popular brands like Moen, Delta,

last forty-two years.

remodels,”

explained

Corina.

C & L Plumbing Supply Co. | 4300 Rosa Avenue | El Paso, Texas 79905 | (915) 532-3917 By: MEAGAN KINLEY photographed by: ROBERT CORRAL

SPECIAL ADVERTISING | 65

The Desert Gypsy DIANNA WILLIAMS-HEFLEY

“Success to me is finding a way to combine my passion with my business.

I loved being a teacher and I love ‘all things Mexican.’ I’m happy I’ve found a business in which I can use my talents and incorporate the things I love.”

Dianna Williams-Hefley has lived a life filled

would be a great way to fulfill my dreams and

Another wonderful aspect of buying from The

with unexpected adventures and travel.

showcase the talents of our neighbors to the

Desert Gypsy is that Dianna is a teacher at

Growing up, she and her family would spend

south,” explained Dianna. Today she has a

heart, having taught school and at University

summers exploring eclectic colonial villages

home in Guadalajara that serves as a base for

for a cumulative 18 years, and loves retelling

and camping on pristine uninhabited beaches

all of her traveling, buying and consolidating

the stories of the people and places she has

throughout the country of Mexico. Fast-

the various pieces of “Artesania” before

purchased each item from. “I love teaching

forward to today and it’s no wonder she has

bringing everything back to the U.S.

people about the pieces in the store, how they were made, where I found them and about

developed a sincere love of the country as well as eye for art and design.

Dianna and The Desert Gypsy are proud

the families I buy them from,” said Dianna.

to boast that everything in their store was “People always commented on the Mexican

bought via fairtrade either directly from the

décor in my own home so I thought this

fabricant or from the artist making each item.

The Desert Gypsy | La Placita Santa Fe | 5024 Doniphan #14 | El Paso, Texas 79932 | (915) 227-7014 66 | SPECIAL ADVERTISING

By: MEAGAN KINLEY photographed by: TOMMIE MORELOS

Patricia Garcia De Franco DE FRANCO DESIGNS

“In order to be irreplaceable one must always be different.”

—COCO CHANEL

Patricia Garcia De Franco has always loved

Today Patricia of De Franco Designs, in Placita

traditional. They are also known for making

the arts, jewelry and design—but never in

Santa Fe, specializes in creating one-of-a-kind

customized coin bracelets with coins from

her wildest dreams did she imagine that

jewelry pieces, incorporating the unique spirit

various countries or their customer’s travels.

her passion would turn into a flourishing

and passions of each of their clients. “Our

“We have also thoroughly enjoyed designing

business. “My friends would always ask

customers bring us jewelry pieces they want

wedding rings for couples,” Patricia said.

me to restring or redesign their jewelry for

to recycle, or pieces that have sentimental

them—this eventually led to me participating

value—but no longer represent their taste in

Altogether De Franco Designs offers El

in various craft shows where I was able to

jewelry. Our vision is not to sell our inventory,

Pasoans a memorable jewelry shopping

create a client base. Before I knew it, I was

but to help people use what they already have

experience like no other. The opportunity

renting a place downtown in the museum

and to redesign them into new statement

to transform the old into new, and create

district and I have been in business ever

pieces,” explained Patricia. Their designs range

jewelry with a “story” is exactly what Patricia

since,” Patricia recalled.

from modern to minimalist, to more classic and

and De Franco Designs do best.

De Franco Designs | Placita Santa Fe | 5024 Doniphan Dr., #6 | El Paso, Texas 79932 | (915) 351-1832 By: MEAGAN KINLEY photographed by: TOMMIE MORELOS

SPECIAL ADVERTISING | 67

Yari Orta-Rubio,

Realtor- Texas Agent/ New Mexico Qualifying Broker HOME PROS REAL ESTATE GROUP “Real estate for me is not about a one-time transaction, I believe in establishing a long-term relationship with my clients.”

“To me, I feel my success at the end of a real

2003 the trajectory of her professional career

Since her initial success eight years ago, Yari

estate transaction when I know my client is

changed course forever after she sold her

has continued pursuing her dream and today

truly happy and satisfied. When I see that,

personal home for over $5,000 above the

has sold over $21.7 million in residential and

I know I’ve done my job.” - Yari Orta-Rubio

appraisal value. Her luck continued later in

commercial sales.

2006 when the home she custom built sold Yari Orta-Rubio wasn’t always in the real

“Real estate for me is not about a one-time

for a $200,000 dollar profit.

transaction, I believe in establishing a long

estate game here in El Paso’s growing market. In fact, she got her start attaining

“I realized that year that my desire to satisfy

term relationship with my clients,” Yari said.

a degree in Fashion Design Textiles and

customers and my ability to build and sell

“Remember, real estate is personal and

Merchandising with a minor in business

homes for a profit was a great combination.

emotional and I do my best to understand

from NMSU. After entering the workplace,

It was at this moment that I realized that I

my clients needs, feelings and make sure

she spent 14 years working in the fashion

wanted to pursue a career in real estate,”

that they feel represented from the very

industry developing the El Paso/Mexico

explained Yari.

beginning to the end of the transaction and

market for a New York Corporation. Then in

beyond if necessary.”

Home Pros Real Estate Group | 230 Thunderbird Drive | El Paso, Texas 79912 | (915) 204-4529 | www.findahomeelpaso.com 68 | SPECIAL ADVERTISING

By: MEAGAN KINLEY photographed by: JONATHAN WEINGERS

Nicole Cabral MYSTIC GRAPE

“We have 48 wines you can purchase by the ounce, half glass and whole glass. This means you can sample wine and find one you want to invest in—either by the glass or by the bottle. We have a total inventory of over 140 wines that you can choose from.”

“We have brought the ‘best’ pieces of our wine

“At the time I was attending UTEP, I had a young

“We began to investigate wine,” recalled

experiences from around the world to El Paso.

family and earning a living was high on the

Nicole. “Soon we were collecting wine from

Every detail has a story and reminds us of the

priority list,” explained Nicole. “Consequently

all over the globe.”

wine, the food and the friends that we have made

I changed my major to Metallurgy and fell in

during our years traveling and tasting wine.”

love with molten metal processing. Altogether,

Today Mystic Grape brings the best wine

I have worked in the metals industry for 28

from all over the world to El Paso. “We have

years and worn many hats.”

48 wines you can purchase by the ounce,

Nicole Cabral, co-owner of the Mystic Grape

half glass and whole glass. This means you

(alongside her husband Santiago Cabral), had always hoped of opening a café or bed

Through these experiences and she and

can sample wine and find one you want to

and breakfast—but never thought these day

Santiago’s travels around the world, the

invest in—either by the glass or by the bottle.

dreams would someday lead to opening her

couple quickly immersed themselves into the

We have a total inventory of over 140 wines

own wine bar. Graduating from UTEP in 1986

culture of wine and the delicate experience

that you can choose from.”

with a degree in Metallurgical Engineering,

and hospitality involved with tasting and trying

Nicole’s first love was actually Volcanology

different grapes with friends and family.

(the study of volcanoes).

Mystic Grape | 2270 Joe Battle Blvd. | El Paso, Texas 79938 | (915) 921-6277 | mysticgrape.com By: MEAGAN KINLEY photographed by: TOMMIE MORELOS

SPECIAL ADVERTISING | 69

Monica Velasco “Everything is custom-made, if they have a very particular type of project we will collaborate internally... you name it we do it.”

With early childhood aspirations of owning her own business, Monica took over FASTSIGNS on Airway after its previous owner settled into retirement almost two years ago. With experience in HR Management and purchasing, coupled with other accreditations, hard work, loving support and creativity, Velasco expanded the FASTSIGNS store on Airway by adding to their portfolio of products and services. She has been innovative in creating new outlets for customers to get their name out.

FASTSIGNS on Airway caters to all sizes of businesses and clients around the city and the world, from small jobs to larger industrial orders, such as the military and healthcare. FASTSIGNS on Airway, which has been established for over 22 years, has even done projects for Hollywood. Monica notes on FASTSIGNS’ services and describes a team effort that includes exterior and interior sign designs, banners, pens, promotional products, T-Shirts, installations, and vehicle graphics. Monica states, “Everything is custom-made, if they have a very particular type of project we will collaborate internally...you name it we do it.” Velasco maintains outstating internal communication, appreciates her employees, and collaborates with her entire staff through daily production meetings.

Monica has achieved various honorable titles as the new owner of FASTSIGNS on Airway and a member of the board of directors for the Better Business Bureau. She loves interacting with people and putting FASTSIGNS out into the community. She was nominated for Business Woman of the Year from the El Paso Chamber of Commerce in 2013, was given the Pinnacle Sales Award within the FASTSIGNS Company, and recently became a member of Jovenes Empresarios.

Velasco supports El Paso businesses as she uses her creativity and drive for FASTSIGNS’ laudable customer service.

Monica Velasco | fastsigns.com/144 | 1201 Airway Suite D3 | El Paso, Texas 79925 | (915) 772-5700 | monica.velasco@fastsigns.com 70 | SPECIAL ADVERTISING

By: MEAGAN KINLEY photographed by: ROBERT CORRAL

Shannon Quartermane is a native El Paso business woman who’s pride, devotion, and talent has been showcased throughout her more than a decade career. After starting in El Paso she spent time in Santa Fe, New Mexico where she gained more experience working with high profile clients in the film industry. Upon returning to El Paso in 2007, she decided to open a boutique salon herself, wanting to employ her own unique style of hair artistry and client relations. After meeting her now husband, also a long time El Paso hairdresser, a special union and vision was birthed with a passion for both clients and staff. That vision has created what is now called Quartermane Salon.

Shannon Quartermane is not only a mother of three children, and an active member of the Junior League of El Paso, but the owner and creative director for her salon.

She tirelessly gives of herself to the community and her staff with a diligence that can be felt by all who know her. With a true entrepreneurial spirit, she wishes for the success, spiritually and economically, of all who work along side her. Often happily behind the scenes make no mistake, Shannon helps drive the dreams of what the salon is and one day will become, from photo shoots to marketing, her presence is felt.

Meeka Chavez is a bright and shining example initiative

of

the

leadership

Quartermane

has

strived to employ. She is the first female artistic leader whose incredible talent, warmth and smile illuminate every where she works, be it in El Paso or on the road across Texas to one of the many cities visited by the salon’s ‘away team.’ Chavez is a stylistic force to keep an eye on.

Photographed by: LUI CARDENAS make up by: MATTHEW ABRAHAM

SPECIAL ADVERTISING | 71

November, 2013

BRAVE THINKING. BRAVE SOCIAL + MULTIMEDIA SOLUTIONS.

Video Production Web Design Social Media Commercials Documentaries Music Videos Copy/Motion Graphics

BLACKBIRD CONCEPTS blackbirdconcepts.co

Valentin Sandoval • 915 694 8863 Official Multimedia Producer for

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el paso magazine

www.thecitymagazineelp.com

November, 2013

73

May, 2014

KTSM’s Lauren Macias-Cervantes

Chasing Down | Photography by: RYAN HALL |

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the

L a u r e n M a c i a s - C e r va n t e s

FACTS I

t wasn’t until the end of Lauren’s junior

year at Gadsden High School, when

Lauren has a Bachelor of Arts in Journalism and

Communication

from

New

Mexico

auditions opened up for TV101 –­ a daily,

State University and a Master of Business

live campus news broadcast, that she

Administration from the University of Phoenix.

thought journalism would be a potential

She received additional training at the Poytner

career path. She auditioned and earned

Institute for Media Studies and the Magid

one of the coveted spots, further developing her

Institute. She is a Kneeland Fellow, graduate of

interest in the field her senior year. If you asked

Leadership El Paso, Class XXXV and is a Board

her what her goal was then, it was to one day

Member for the Public Relations Association of

become a television reporter; never did she think

the Southwest. “I always had to do well in school

she would one day be the News Director at the

growing up and knew I had to pursue a degree

same station where she started her broadcast

because my mom never had that opportunity. She

career shortly after high school.

sometimes worked two jobs to make sure we had what we needed; I wanted to do more. My

Her love for writing, telling stories and adrenaline

professional development was a result of both

from the pace of breaking news coupled with

great bosses believing enough to invest in me,

her dedication and drive helped her quickly move

and my personal desire to grow. My decision to

through the ranks and become a four-time Emmy

pursue, and obtain my MBA came from the need

award winning television producer turned News

to remain competitive in an ever changing world.”

Director. Her accolades are many in the now 14 years experience in television news and five years

Lauren credits her drive, determination and

experience in public relations and marketing.

unrelenting work ethic to her mom Jenny; and knows she would be no where without the

Lauren Macias-Cervantes News Director KTSM/KDBC www.thecitymagazineelp.com

She has been fortunate to grow her career in

help of great mentors who offered advice and

her “hometown.” As mentioned, her return to

opportunities; and her three kids: Aranda, Jakob

KTSM/KDBC is a homecoming of sorts as KTSM

and Damien; husband George and family who

is where she began her career in TV back in

offer love, life lessons and support through the

1995 as an intern. Looking back she thinks she

challenges that often come with the life of a

inherited the news bug from her mom. Lauren

journalist and newsroom leader. “I strive every

remembers “chasing sirens” with her mom

day to be fair, listen and treat others as I would

anytime there was something going on in the

like to be treated. I take my job and responsibility

small town (Anthony) she grew up in. Still today,

seriously

every time there’s smoke in the air or sirens

the stories of, and being part of, our border

nearby – Lauren’s mom is quick to dial up details.

community. Though I have been offered outside

while

thoroughly

enjoying

telling

opportunities, I stay in El Paso for the love of the culture, synergy and familia!

75

Blessed Bless May, 2014

TO BE A

| By: DESIREE LOZANO |

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May, 2014

blessed to be a blessing

ing

L

a

to this community. Proceeds donated to

difference in the world has been

SPJ go toward building homes large enough

made possible through the faith

for one family and provides assistance with

and hard work of El Paso native

food, clothing, and everyday essentials.

ooking

cute

and

making

Gina Carameros with her business as a jewelry saleswoman for Premier Design and generous

Carameros was inspired by her best friend to

donations to Siguiendo Los Pasos de Jesus.

become a Premier Designs jeweler with her own motivation of inviting women to make a

Born and raised in El Paso, Carameros found

“purchase with a purpose” and has been able

her calling as (what she refers to herself as)

to successfully donate more than $50,000 in

an “independent vessel of awareness and

two years to SPJ from jewelry sales.

resources for a cause” after being a stay at home mother of two children and dedicating

Premier Designs was started in Dallas and

two decades to volunteer work at their

is built off a foundation of strong biblical

schools. After contemplating on the next

principles and ultimately the company is

step in her life, Carameros became a bible

committed to serving worldwide missions.

study facilitator at her church where she met

The synergy between their business model

the Executive Director of SPJ, Jane Fuller.

and the desire Carameros has to continue helping others is a match made in heaven.

“I’m just a gal who wants to use her life to impact the world and leave it in a better place

“After

than it was when she found it.” Carameros

husband’s 100 percent support I called my

careful

prayer

and

gaining

my

said. “It has been such a rewarding two years

friend and told her I wanted to sign up under

using this industry as a means of outreach

her and become a Premier Designs jeweler,”

for awareness, support and resources for the

Carameros said. “My idea was to take this

great vision of the charity.”

venue and use it for God’s glory to help spread the message of hope to new circles.”

Siguiendo Los Pasos de Jesus, meaning ‘following in the footsteps of Jesus,’ is a

The high fashion jewelry line in which Carameros

501 (c) 3 non-profit organization started by

sells is designed with versatility, affordability

Fuller with the mission of impacting a five

and of course, quality in mind. It boasts a “fun-

kilometer remote and rural area in Juárez,

fordable” price point of $10 - $99 so there is

Mexico through mentorship and bringing

something for every woman’s budget.

homes, health and hope through education www.thecitymagazineelp.com

77

Article Title

May, 2014

“This is very important to me because I want to be inclusionary and represent something that everybody could afford so that all women can be blessed to know they have helped make a difference for a cause,” Carameros said.

Carameros is coming up to her second year anniversary as a Successory Coach for Premier Designs. Premier Designs jewelry is sold through fun home shows that women host and invite their friends and family to participate.

Prior to becoming a Premier Designs jeweler Carameros began a ministry called Sanctuary in which she used her love of home décor as a vessel for people to plug into for an extreme makeover of their home or selected personal spaces. Carameros would frequently make house calls and lend fresh eyes to people’s homes by rearranging furniture, hanging pictures and staging their favorite home décor items.

Proceeds collected through the efforts of Carameros and Sanctuary have been donated to SPJ as well, to lend a helping hand to those living in pallet houses so that they can receive safe and newly constructed homes and build a brighter future for their families.

Carameros’

efforts

from

Sanctuary

expanded when she became aware of the outpouring from the community wanting to 78

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May, 2014

Article Title

donate their household items and clothing to the SPJ community. Carameros lent another helping hand by becoming the inspector of all things donated.

“It was always so much fun to be able to tuck an unexpected surprise into a pocket that would further bless the one receiving it,” Carameros said. “I really counted it an honor and privilege to work in solitude and mediate on the lives SPJ committed to touch.”

After dedicating several years to the efforts of Sanctuary, it became clear to Carameros that the scope of the project stretched beyond her ability to maintain—but that didn’t stop Carameros from making a difference in the world—thus becoming an independent jeweler for Premier Designs.

“It is truly amazing to me that we can leave our fingerprints of compassion in the lives of those less fortunate by making a small purchase,” Carameros said. “To know that we can change the world one pair of hoop earrings at a time blows me away.”

______________________________________________ “Siguiendo los Pasos de Jesus, Inc., a Texas nonprofit corporation (SPJ), is not affiliated with, nor is it responsible for, the actions or activities of persons other than those of SPJ itself. SPJ does not promote, endorse, or involve itself with any business operations, products, or sales of products that may be referenced, but focuses solely upon its non-profit activities as described at www.spjinc.org. If you find a website or other publication where it appears that SPJ is endorsing specific products, services, businesses, business affiliations, etc., please contact us immediately so that we can attempt to contact the responsible parties and correct any misinformation. SPJ advises donors to ask questions, and if any additional information is needed, please direct your inquiries to spjinc@hotmail. com. SPJ does not endorse any political candidate or political organization, and the views expressed in the accompanying communication or publication do not constitute any endorsement by SPJ.”

www.thecitymagazineelp.com

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May, 2014

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May, 2014

Around the

World

and

Back

How Elodia Perches-Adamson has Enriched El Paso’s Growing Market | By: MEAGAN KINLEY photography by: TOMMIE MORELOS |

W

hile some little girls grow up dreaming to become doctors, teachers, or lawyers, Elodia Perches-Adamson grew up knowing she wanted to travel the world. When she was in the middle of her undergraduate education at the

University of Texas at El Paso, she decided it was finally time to make her dreams come to fruition — so she set off for a year of travels abroad.

“When I was 20, I left to travel Europe and Africa for six months each — I

s i s s e c c u s , “To me o s o d u o y t loving wha ou never y t a h t h c u m .” e r i t e r o t t wan

had not graduated from College yet, but I knew I just needed to go on a trip. After living in Africa for six months, I discovered how little material items meant to me. When I finally came home a year later, I finished my degree and graduated from UTEP. But after visiting 14 countries in Africa, and six in Europe, I decided to make traveling and seeing the world the focus and point of my life,” explained Elodia.

So with her new life mission and after graduating college, Elodia got a job with Pan Am World Airways and began jet setting all over the world.

“First, I was based in Los Angeles and traveled all over Asia, later I was transferred to New York where I traveled and saw a whole other part of the world — it was incredibly rewarding,” Elodia described.

Elodia spent years traveling the world with Pan Am. “I loved my job. Just being able to see the world was my favorite part,” Elodia remembered.

“When I worked there, it truly was when Pan Am was the famous

www.thecitymagazineelp.com

81

Elodia Perches-Adamson

May, 2014 clipper — those were the good old days of flying when everything was fun. Me and the other flight attendants and crewmembers would have nine-day trips to Australia, sevenday trips to India and the like. I truly got to see and experience the world. It wasn’t really about being on a 747 Jumbo Jet, it was about what we were going to do when we arrived in the next country.”

Then one day when she came home to visit her parents in between travels, her father told her something that changed her career forever. “My father said to me, ‘this company has put you into the world trade business, you should find a way to make the most of it.’ This truly resonated with me and on one of my trips I came across these snakeskin handbags and clothing. I started bringing these home with me to sell — and that’s actually where my original logo came from — this all happened in the 80s. I then started selling so much that I opened my own Elodia stores. I loved retail so much. I was so happy to have found a day-job

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May, 2014

Elodia Perches-Adamson

that enabled me to travel and use my unique

much to their view of fashion itself. “I feel that

general manager Gladys Meri and the rest of

taste in fashion,” recalled Elodia.

my daughters and I have a unique perspective

my personnel are the heart and soul of my

on fashion — I sit on the world trade center

success. We cannot do what we do alone.”

But then in 2000, when Elodia’s father passed

in Dallas and preview the lines before they

away, she decided to sell the store and she

actually are chosen to go to market,” explained

Elodia and her family believe in challenging

began working at her family’s funeral home

Elodia. “We are one of 10 stores in the U.S.

themselves both in the business and in

business at La Paz – Graham’s Funeral Homes.

who previews the owners and the stores. We

everyday life. “Once a year, I set a big goal.

Elodia quickly became an asset to the business;

handpick the items that are going out into the

It started with seeing places like the Sierra

but in 2004 when the Elodia name was up for

market to the U.S. and the world. I am out of

Desert and since then I have set challenging

sell again, Elodia could not resist and bought it

El Paso 120 days of the year from traveling the

goals that push me to exercise and stretch

back. “I felt it was a great opportunity to get

world so my customers have the newest, and

me out of my comfort zone. By doing this,

back in the retail business that had been my

most exquisite pieces. Being in the business

I have also sailed down the Nile River and

passion for so long. My daughter Sofia then

over 30 years, the manufacturers respect and

when I turned 50 I had to go climb the Great

started Ella Blu and I now have my other store

value my opinion. No one else can offer that.”

Wall of China. Next month, I head to Peru to climb Machu Picchu with many of my bridal

Bridal Novias too, which my other daughter Andrea has now joined. So now I’ve got my

Elodia and her daughters will never stop

friends,” explained Elodia. “In business we

two daughters in the retail business, while I

traveling,

their

want to challenge ourselves the same way by

help them and balance the funeral business —

businesses. The love they have for each

growing and opening more locations. Growth

which serves both El Paso and Juárez.

of their stores transcends the idea of a

is extremely important to us. A business is like

conventional job, it’s obvious that they truly

a bicycle, if you don’t continue pedaling, it falls.

Elodia and her daughters have truly enriched

care about the quality of unique items and

I feel that El Paso itself has so much potential,

the El Paso retail market. With all of their travels

pieces they sell to the customers they value.

it is such a wonderful city to live in, to raise

— the culture and adventure that enrobes each

“We are a family run business,” said Elodia.

children in — and it is definitely home.”

of their worldwide endeavors has brought so

“We want to continue our growth and our

www.thecitymagazineelp.com

exploring

or

growing

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May, 2014

Leading the Way in El Paso

| By: CHANTEL CREWS ANCELL photos courtesy of: THE JUNIOR LEAGUE OF EL PASO, INC. and DIANE SIERRA |

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junior league

May, 2014

T

he Junior League volunteer

El Paso community through a program of

El Pasoans. Some of JLEP’s high-profile

movement

1901

education and volunteer service. JLEP now

projects include CASA – Court Appointed

when a group of young women

has more than 600 members of all ages

Special Advocates, Christmas in April, El Paso

decided to defy social norms

and backgrounds who are dedicated to the

Desert Botanical Garden, El Paso Community

and tackle the difficult social

belief that volunteer service is an essential

Foundation, Field of Miracles, Independence

issue of poverty in New York City. Such

part of responsible citizenship. JLEP is

House, Kids-N-Co, Los Murales, Midnight

audacious actions soon caught the notice of

an organization of women committed to

Basketball,

other women around the country, and those

promoting

Volunteers in Public Schools, and the Young

women decided to join the Junior League

potential of women, and improving the

movement in order to positively impact

community through the effective action and

their own communities through training and

leadership of trained volunteers. Throughout

JLEP funds its projects and programs through

empowering women to be leaders.

its 80-year history, JLEP has positively

its various fundraisers. For the past 40 years,

impacted the El Paso community through its

JLEP has kicked off the holiday shopping

many projects and programs.

season with its annual A Christmas Fair. A

started

in

On June 9, 1930, twelve bold El Paso

voluntarism,

developing

the

Ronald

McDonald

House,

People’s Symphony Concert.

Christmas Fair is an El Paso tradition, staged

women organized a Junior Service League, and eighty charter members joined the

Each year JLEP studies the critical needs of

with merchants from across the country, and

League in September of the same year. The

the community, partners with other non-profit

is staffed and implemented solely by JLEP

Junior League of El Paso, Inc. (JLEP) was

organizations, and puts its members to work.

volunteers. JLEP also sells its award-winning

founded in 1933 as one of the earliest Junior

JLEP has initiated and implemented more

cookbooks and merchandise through JLEP’s

Leagues in Texas with the goal of training

than 100 successful community projects in El

specialty boutique, Mercado del Sol, also

members for effective participation in the

Paso that have touched the lives of so many

solely staffed by JLEP volunteers.

www.thecitymagazineelp.com

85

junior league

May, 2014

Claudia Castillo Makeup Artistry

Polished Skin Expressive Eyes (915) 313-1124 JLEP’s newest fundraiser, Storytellers, brings

stories about life, love, and family. The

in some of the best and most prolific singers/

artists even shared personal stories about

songwriters in the country music industry for

the success of their songs. With each story

an incredible evening of songs, stories, and

and song, Barker, Beathard, and Murphy

support for JLEP. The artists share the stories

gave the audience incredible insight into the

behind their hits and then play those songs

importance of the songwriter to the music

for the audience. Many of these songwriters

we enjoy every day and gained 350 lifelong

may not be easily recognizable or household

fans in the process.

names; however, the artists who perform at Storytellers have been responsible for

The Storytellers artists loved being in El

launching and solidifying the careers of many

Paso – from very special transportation

of country music’s biggest and brightest stars.

with Lucky Duck Enterprises to beautiful Lucchese boots, to visits and pictures at

86

JLEP’s third annual Storytellers event took

some of El Paso’s most famous places,

place on Saturday, March 29, 2014, and

and to the opportunity to meet and talk

singers/songwriters Aaron Barker, Casey

with appreciative Storytellers fans – Barker,

Beathard, and David Lee Murphy entertained

Beathard, and Murphy were treated to JLEP

the audience for more than two hours with

hospitality and the best of El Paso. www.thecitymagazineelp.com

May, 2014

junior league

current chart topping hits, and each year the artist line up is new and different.

In just three years, Storytellers has gained quite a following. Sponsorships are already selling quickly for next year’s show set for Saturday, March 28, 2015, and JLEP is expecting yet another sold out event. Money raised at Storytellers is invested in the JLEP Endowment Fund, which ensures the continued vitality of JLEP’s 80-year legacy of voluntarism, leadership, and positive impact on the El Paso community through its programs and projects.

For more information about the Junior League of EL Paso, please visit www.jlep.org.

JLEP receives incomparable support from its sponsors for the Storytellers event; this year, 15 returning and 10 new sponsors made Storytellers a great success. United Bank of El Paso del Norte, the Junior League’s Sustaining Community Partner through 2018, continues to lead the way as the founding Record Label Sponsor of Storytellers.

Storytellers is not just an exciting fundraiser - judging by the incredible talent JLEP has brought to El Paso with this event in the past three years, Storytellers is also one of El Paso’s most relevant events. Since 2011, it has become practically impossible to listen to country music on the radio and not hear one of JLEP’s Storytellers songwriters’ hits.

The artists’ music ranges from old country to www.thecitymagazineelp.com

955 N. Resler Dr. #103 El Paso, TX 79912

915.585.3200 arubasunspa.com 87

May, 2014

Tales of

www.thecitymagazineelp.com

Megan Glancey

May, 2014

Honor | By: MEAGAN KINLEY |

El Paso’s Own Megan Glancey is accepted into Naval Air Station Flight School

M

idshipman Megan Glancey,

through four rigorous years of challenges

soon-to-be

of

that push Midshipman to the limit in all

The United States Naval

areas of academic and physical life. But for

Academy’s (USNA) Class

Midshipman Glancey to attain acceptance

of 2014 has defied the odds by attaining

into the Naval Air Station where she and

acceptance into the Navy’s Prestigious

a handful of other top notch Officers will

Naval Air Station Flight School in Pensacola,

learn the ins and outs of Naval Flight to

Florida. For those who are not familiar,

earn their wings and one day serve as

attaining acceptance into Annapolis alone

Naval Airmen is quite a feat of extreme

is a feat accomplished by the best of the

intelligence, honor and strength.

graduate

best—not to mention surviving and thriving www.thecitymagazineelp.com

89

Megan Glancey

May, 2014

After completing the long and difficult process of applying to the Academy, Glancey finally learned she had been accepted and set off to Annapolis to begin her future as a Midshipman and future Officer of the United States Navy—and for the last four years she has completed four formidable and exhilarating Glancey, a native El Pasoan

years of school studying to attain a Bachelor

got her start here as a

of Science degree in English.

graduate of Franklin High

“Throughout high school I had never even thought of or knew about the Service or Academies as a possibility for me.

I have always wanted to be in the air, and now I will be.”

School on El Paso’s west

“My decision to become an English Major

side.

became

has proved the most fruitful and fulfilling.

interested in the idea of

The environment we have in Sampson

attending a Service Academy when she

Hall is incomparable to any other academic

began contemplating plans to attend college.

environment here. We will all, bizarrely;

She

first

graduate with a Bachelor of Science in English “Throughout high school I had never even

due to the amount of technical courses we

thought of or knew about the Service

must take here. We are a small major and

or Academies as a possibility for me,”

very close with one another. We spend the

recalled Glancey. “As I was approaching

majority of our free time with one another

the great college decision when my dad

and have cultivated a level of empathy that,

recommended the idea of ROTC or even

in my opinion, will set us above the rest in

Service Academies as a means of paying for

future leadership roles,” Glancey explained.

school. The summer after my junior year, I attended a weeklong program here at USNA

While attending the Naval Academy, Glancey

and really enjoyed the challenge. Both of

was also a member of the Women’s Glee Club,

my grandfathers were in the Air Force, my

where she traveled across the United States

mother’s father was a pilot. The idea of flying

competing and performing in various events,

and the travel opportunities that come with it

as well as a member of the Women’s Golf

enticed me extremely. I have always wanted

Team for a few seasons. She also participated

to be in the air, and now I will be.”

as an active member of the BCM, the Baptist Collegiate Ministry organization on campus.

90

www.thecitymagazineelp.com

May, 2014 With the giant goal of graduation almost complete, Glancey recalled some of the challenges

she

overcame,

“The

most

challenging part of Academy life is absolutely plebe year/plebe summer. Taking rockstar high school students and stripping them down in order to build them up as a team is the general purpose of those two portions of your time here. Staying positive during this time definitely helps.”

Glancey’s unyielding perseverance got her through Annapolis and will certainly continue to help her succeed as she moves onto her next big challenge in flight school and beyond.

“I have no idea what platform I would like to fly with after completing flight school and getting winged,” Glancey explained.

“I do know I plan on returning to school, perhaps more than once; I’m a knowledge junkie. I would like to teach, even here at the academy if I can swing that gig. The Navy makes it very easy for you to take advantage of their opportunities in whatever way works best for you. I gained a free education, job security after graduation, the possibility to be a Naval Flight Officer in naval aviation, and a decently stable future.

I’d like to get married and have a family but I, unlike others, haven’t found this to be an immediate necessity of mine. Time will tell, I’m in no rush to make big decisions.”

Megan Glancey’s story is truly an inspiration to many, ranging all the way from her hometown of El Paso, Texas to women alike. Time will certainly tell, as Megan said, but we are all quite excited for the incredible opportunities and success that are sure to follow this amazing young woman.

Congratulations, Megan Glancey!

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May, 2014

Where Are They Now?

El Pasoan

Lindsay Hovel Hits Hollywood | By: VALENTIN SANDOVAL |

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www.thecitymagazineelp.com

May, 2014

I

L i n d s ay h o v e l

t is often said that the actual journey

That was Hovel’s tipping point at a very young

is more rewarding than the final

age. Hovel became a game changer in every

destination. Whether this principal

respect. Lindsay would take that momentum

manifests itself in one’s life, or not, it is

as she matriculated into a first time producer,

still worth considering. In Lindsay Hovel’s life

again with El Paso filmmaker Ryan Williams,

this idea resonates through her charisma and

who’s now married to America Ferrera and is

ebullience towards her career in Hollywood

working with the likes of Steven Soderberg

and is truly infectious and inspiring. I was able

and George Clooney. Hovel co-produced

to talk to Lindsay and ask her a few questions

Ryan’s first full-length feature film, “The Dry

about her start and her budding career.

Land.” From there, her career continued to grow and she’s worked with all the major

Lindsay Hovel, a native El Pasoan, is a

networks, NBC, CBS, and ABC.

graduate of Eastwood High School. Her family has had a successful dental practice

One of Hovel’s career influences was

in El Paso’s lower valley for 45 years. Today,

working and learning from Mashawn Nix,

she lives in Los Angeles with a 512 area

senior vice president of programming at the

code. I asked her how she ended up there

Oprah Winfrey Network. Nix’s work ethic and

And when you put that idea on air, you realize

and the response was that she’s a graduate

tenacity provided a career lay out for Hovel.

how people respond to it. You become a

of UT Austin’s revered RTF (Radio Television

She found someone with a vision that was

taste and culture maker. This is a big part of

and Film) program that has produced local

after her own heart. But the more profound

what drives any producer.”

filmmakers making larger forays like Steve

inspiration in her work has come from her

Osborn, Manny Mendoza, and Cristina

roots and her family in El Paso:

I ask Hovel regarding the male-female divide in Hollywood. Does it exist? What role has the

Ibarra, as well as industry legends such as Richard Linklater and cinematographer Lee

“The north star in my life has always been

“good old boy” system played in making her

Daniel, Wes Anderson, Robert Rodriguez,

my family. They run a very successful dental

dreams come to fruition? And to my surprise,

and Oscar Award winning actor Matthew

office in El Paso. For 45 years my grandparents

Hovel explains to me that it’s really no easier

McConaughey, to name a few.

and parents have maintained their business

for men, than it is for women. Apparently the

through a very solid work ethic.”

gender tectonic plates are shifting and the gap between men and women is dissipating

She left to Austin, understanding that it was soon to become the “3rd coast” of the film

The perpetual question I’ve heard throughout

industry. Of course this was prior to current

the years is, “What does a producer really do?”

into the ether.

“What it comes down to is performance and

day Hollywood’s move into incentivized New Mexico. Hovel knew since she was a kid that

Upon dialoging with Hovel, the insight

results. There’s still progress to be made. But

show biz was her destiny. And that course

I gained from a producer at her level

there really is a pretty even split between

would begin with getting her internship

brought the light of clarity to an otherwise

female and male movers and shakers.”

on the highly coveted show “Alamo,” the

arbitrary and nebulous concept. This was

biggest show in Texas at that time.

made manifest by a track record that is

Each project Lindsay Hovel is a part of, is

bourgeoning each and every day.

an incremental zeitgeist that somehow continues to evolve. With her career sky

The irony of being from our unique borderland frontier was that:

“What drives me is taking an idea and

rocketing, Hovel genuinely has El Paso

concept that inspires me. There’s no way

closest to her heart and is always looking

“Being from El Paso has been a very pivotal

of being objective. When something comes

for opportunities to come home and maybe

resource in my career,” Lindsay said. “For

your way, you go based off of what you know

work and enjoy her transforming hometown.

one, the production coordinator, Danny Salas

and what resonates with you. You develop

was also an El Pasoan. And so that intrigued

the game plan, and you execute it…from the

him that I was also from El Paso. That played

producing side, you come to a consensus.

a large role in being a 19-year-old, who got to work on a $110 million film.”

www.thecitymagazineelp.com

93

Candice Reyes May, 2014

seeking to be a creator of

c i s u m

never the imitator | By: JOSE SOTO photography by: STEVE GARDUNO |

94

www.thecitymagazineelp.com

candice reyes

May, 2014

E

Abel Mireles (saxaphone) Shaun Mahoney (guitar) Nico Perkins ( drums) David Rodriguez (bass) www.epjazzexchange.com

l Paso is the divergence of musical talent,

with Azucar and other local bands. Naturally,

was awarded a scholarship by the non-profit

diversity and uniqueness. It’s home to an

they were the ones who exposed me to

organization known as El Paso Friends of

array of musical scenes, catering

jazz music. I played different instruments

Jazz, which promoted my college studies.

to the ears of music enthusiasts across the

throughout my school years and started

I played with different bands for a bit as a

town. The sumptuous sounds of jazz are some

singing in the jazz choir during high school. I

vocalist and finally started by own band, the

of the notes that can be heard throughout our

tried out for the Youth Jazz Ensemble under

Candice Reyes Quintet in 2005. Since then,

city. The slurs from the saxophone caress

the direction of Marty Olivas, who is a great

we’ve been playing for a variety of audiences

the air, fostered by a syncopated drumbeat, a

local musician, and was their lead singer from

throughout town.

soft pulse from the bass and a finesse vocal

2002-2004. Upon graduating high school, I

stream. If this is the case, you most likely are

CM: Tell us about your musical style.

listening to the talent of the Candice Reyes

What does it consist of?

Quintet, one of few jazz ensembles found

CR: The style of music that I sing is definitely

around town. Lead by their vocalist, the

a mix of modern and classic jazz. I try to fuse

Candice Reyes Quintet offers music fans the

the old with the new. I’ve always loved and

kind of jazz performances that are seldom in

been attached to the classic jazz standards

El Paso. Candice Reyes, an esoteric vocalist

and sound, yet listening to new ideas and

who won the first El Paso Idol back in 2003,

new sounds have matured my sound.

is a young talent that is, literally, all that jazz.

With a substantial musical background, an

CM: What particular artist sparked your

integral and ongoing education in music

interest in jazz vocals?

and a natural talent for the genre, Candice

CR: As a little girl my first influence and

Reyes seeks to put jazz back to where it

still is, Ella Fitzgerald. I remember my

used to be; at the forefront of the music

parents playing one of her cassettes.

scene. The City Magazine had a one-on-one

Specifically, I remember the song

with Reyes and spoke about what is it to be a jazz musician in the Sun City.

“Tisket a Tasket.” I remember very clearly that I heard her voice and told myself “I want to sing like

The City Magazine: Where did

that.” Ella Fitzgerald has been my

your musical endeavor start?

biggest influence in my vocal career.

How were you exposed to the

She inspired me and influenced me

world of music?

tremendously with here scat singing,

Candice Reyes: I’ve always been

perfect pitch, and great feeling for

exposed to music. Both of my

the style. But I also have others: Billie

parents are musicians. My mother,

Holiday, Sarah Vaughn and some more

Dora Reyes, was the lead singer

recent jazz influences like Fay Claassen,

for “Azucar”(a Latin-jazz band) for

Esperanza Spalding and Robert Glasper.

26 years. She’s currently a choir teacher. My father, David Reyes, is a trombone player who played with the Navy Band and also 95

Article Title

CM: Do you find that the jazz scene in

an ear for jazz in the border city. I hope to

some may not agree. Being born into a musical

El Paso is dwindling? Is it hard to find a

capture more of an audience and get locals to

family, I have learned to have the feeling and

concrete following for jazz musicians

open their minds to different styles of music.

rhythm for music. It’s provided my “natural

here when there are many more thriving

It seems that most people feel intimidated

talent.” A lot of people mention older artists

musical scenes?

to hear music they can’t understand or relate

and say that they did it all with their natural

CR: I must say in El Paso, the jazz scene has

to, but I see the scene growing and people

talent, without any educational background.

been through a bit of a struggle. The small

becoming a bit more interested in listening to

I agree, but one way or another, they had to

scene that we have, however, is extremely

live jazz. We hope to see more people come

learn the fundamentals and specific rules to

special because there is a lot of great

out and support it in El Paso.

truly come up with the language of jazz and understand it. By studying music and really

talent here. There are excellent musicians in this town and not a lot of locals know or

CM: You’re about to graduate from UTEP

going into depth of what it means and what it

understand that. Nor do many people know

with a degree in Commercial Music/

stands for, you get an educated sense of how

that jazz is the first American born musical

Vocals Performance. Why did you feel the

to play the way the composer intended it to

genre. That being said, it has influenced a lot

need to further your education and not

be. I am very grateful that I have studied the

of music today. El Paso has a very small jazz

just do what many other musicians do: do

art and craft of music because I don’t feel as

scene. However, as the years go by I feel it

it from natural talent?

limited with my expression and perspective

has expanded and more people are gaining

CR: Studying music is a great thing, although

of how I want to be labeled as a vocalist. I

96

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May, 2014

Airway Blvd. & Montana 915-778-1444 • GarciaCarsElPaso.com don’t feel I’ve lost anything from studying music. With education, you can explore new sounds, guidelines, harmony, groups, instruments and become a creator of music instead of an imitator.

FA M I LY- O W N E D & O P E R AT E D

CM: What can we expect of you in the near future?

CR: My future plans include obtaining my masters in Jazz Vocals, playing with different musicians to evolve my professionalism and record some albums. A big dream of mine is to return to El Paso and build a music school for low-income students who otherwise couldn’t afford to broaden their talents.

Through scholarships, I would like to help these students explore the world of music and eventually make professional musicians out of them. I think our city is in need of this, and I would love to provide that for El Paso to

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further the love of all music.

Candice Reyes can be heard across town at shows playing with her group The Candice Reyes Quintet. For events, please visit www. facebook.com/candicereyes5

www.thecitymagazineelp.com

sunsetfuneralhomes.net

97

On The

May, 2014

Fast Track

| By: REED LONEY |

98

Photo by: Ivan Pierre Aguirre

www.thecitymagazineelp.com

Sports

May, 2014

When asked about her future plans, Janice Jackson replied, “Well, I’m a history major … I actually would like to be a history professor.” This makes an absurd amount of sense.

Janice is a star hurdler for UTEP’s track and field, and in fact is one of the best hurdlers in the nation. It is of no surprise then that running hurdles and her studies both reflect a common interest – time. Whether it is studying the past or racing to beat a previous record, time is predominately on her mind, and has been since the beginning.

J

Janice was born in St.

Unfortunately, lack of funds prevented Janice

remembers Jackson. Her coach must have

Catherine,

and

from competing until 6th grade, and after

had an eye for the talent before him because

remembers how her intrigue

that until high school. In 9th grade, Janice

Janice was asked to come back and practice

in running started well before actually being

started running the 4x4 and the 200-meter

with the hurdling squad.

on a track team. It started during a Field

regularly, but her heart just wasn’t in it.

Day outside her school, where they divided

“Freshman year was rough. I was running

In the beginning, hurdling for Janice was

the students into different age groups to

70 something in the 4x4 just because I didn’t

both a barrier to get over both physically as

compete in running events. “I only ran one

want to do it,” she recalled. Her 200-meter

well as mentally. She couldn’t even begin

race. I didn’t win,” laughed Janice. “But

times were good, but just didn’t feel like a

to actually compete until her sophomore

(after that) I knew I wanted to run! Every

perfect fit. There was something missing

year. But that’s when doubt started creeping

little kid (in Jamaica) wanted to be a runner.”

– something that caught her eye all those

in - “I have to run as fast as I can and jump

After moving to Brooklyn, she saw this

years ago at the Colgate games.

over something?” It was a difficult thing to

Jamaica

balance. So much so in fact that the hurdling

unorganized passion slowly grow.

When asked what sparked her original

coach began to have doubts in his original

In elementary school, a track competition

interest in hurdles, it is evident Janice

prognosis of Jackson’s potential. It was after

called the Colgate Games for kids was one

can’t help but smile. “I was at the Colgate

this realization that Janice began focusing.

of her earliest memories of competing. In

games when I saw them running hurdles.

“He wanted to quit on me. But I said, ‘I got

order to see what students were fastest,

I remember this girl – she was beating

this, I got this,’ and that really pushed me

her gym teacher “had everyone in our class

everybody! She had these long colorful

and got me over my fear.” The result? Janice

run against each other, and I ended up being

socks and I thought that was so cool. I want

finished high school as a top ten competitor

the fastest – I even beat the guys!” she

to do that! So in high school I said ‘Hey, I

in both indoor and outdoor hurdles.

remembered with a smile. After putting on

want to do hurdles.’ I asked my coach …

a show in front of her class, she was placed

and he told me to go see the hurdle coach.”

When the time for a college decision came,

in two races, the 55 and the 200, and ended

And so Janice trotted over to the hurdle

big name schools like Clemson, Michigan,

up placing third in the 200. As for the 55?

coach to try her hand at it, something that

Nebraska, and Georgia Tech all came knocking

“I don’t remember what I finished in the

originally did not come easily. After putting

with scholarships in hand. For Janice, after

55,” Janice admitted, “but the next day I

up a hurdle to gauge her abilities, he said,

visiting Clemson’s campus the decision was

remember being really sore and thought,

“Go ahead and jump over this! So I did and

an easy one. She thought it was beautiful

man I hope I can do this again!”

they started laughing at how bad I looked,”

and immediately felt like her college home.

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99

sports

May, 2014

Photo courtesy of: C-USA

And schools up North like Michigan? “As a

showing and growing simultaneously, and

achieve them, it gets frustrating.” For her to

Jamaican? Shoveling Snow? I was like no

the change to UTEP seemed to have much

finally break 8 on the 60 meter hurdles was

way!” she laughed. “(Clemson’s) campus

to do with it. “It’s been really good … when

essentially her white whale – something

and the coach had a good reputation for

I originally came I was a little antisocial …

that was only obtainable through being able

hurdles.” As we know, Jackson would not

but I broke out of that mold and got to know

to mentally overcome the obstacles as well

find her permanent college home at Clemson.

the team really well and that has made my

as physically. “[Improvement is a] gradual

experience really great.”

process. Last year at Nationals I became an All-American – but 8th place was not what I

So why the change to UTEP? “It’s kind of a funny story,” she remembers. “Exactly a

There are a lot of things Jackson can be

was looking for … I realized I had to work on

week before I went to Clemson I tore my ACL,

proud of – personal records set, school

my focus after that meet.”

and I didn’t know I tore it.” After hobbling

records, even national records. That’s what

along in orientation and realizing she couldn’t

was so impressive about her answer for

And so, Janice has been focusing ever since.

straighten her leg, she wisely decided to see

what memory is fondest to her. “The most

She tends to be her biggest critic – finding

a doctor. After surgery, she had a difficult

fun I have ever had is the Converse Meet

fault in races where others congratulate her.

time adjusting with a healing leg to her new

– they had me in the hurdles of the 2 and

“People are sometimes more proud of me

school, and a change felt like the only remedy

the 4x4. I had a whole bunch of homework,

then I am myself,” she admits. She recalls

– and UTEP ended up being the cure.

but I could balance everything and different

what her coach said to her – “You have to

events and I just had a blast! I am glad I went

believe you are going to do well, you have to

Immediately after arriving Jackson began

out there,” she smiles. Not national record,

believe it. Do not ignore that.” And so Jackson

making an impression, setting the second

nor a personal record – it was this memory

is focusing on the right things. Focusing

fastest time of 13.24 in UTEP history in the

that she was the happiest.

on victory, focusing on improvement, and always, always, with time on her mind.

outdoor 100-meter hurdles at the NCAA prelims as well as other impressive numbers.

When pressed, she will admit that running

For indoor, she achieved a school best 8.28

a 7.98 on the 60 hurdles was her own

in the 60-meter hurdles at the Alex Wilson

personal victory. “You have all these big track

Invitational. It was clear her potential was

goals when you arrive and when you don’t

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May, 2014

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May, 2014

A HistORy Of

MOTHERINg | By: BRITTANY SAWREY |

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m o t h e r ’ s D ay

May, 2014

T

oday many people associate Mother’s Day with a special day to give flowers, cards, and gifts to mothers, a day to honor them for raising us through temper tantrums, tears and tribulation. The celebration of mothers can be traced back even to the Greeks and Romans, who used to hold festivals to honor Rhea and Cybele, their mother goddesses, and the holiday has a rich (and slightly odd) history.

One of the first precursors we see is in a Christian festival celebrated through much of the United Kingdom and Europe called “Mothering Sunday.” This early festival fell on the fourth Sunday in Lent, and was really intended to draw people back to their “mother church,” meaning whatever church was closest to them. It was also a day that servants were given off, so that they could go to church with their families; this was often the only time the entire family could gather once the children began working. This celebration slowly shifted into a more secular celebration, closely resembling our own holiday with children giving their mothers flowers or gifts.

The history of the U.S. version of Mother’s Day is slightly unexpected. Before the Civil War, Ann Reeves Jarvis began a “Mothers’ Day Work Club,” which from 1861-1865 helped to teach women in the local communities proper child care. After the Civil War, these clubs actively helped with reconciliation, building bridges between Union and Confederate families on the common ground of

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motherhood. In 1868, Jarvis even organized an event called “Mothers Friendship Day,” where mothers would gather with Union and Confederate soldiers to promote healing and reconciliation between the forces.

Julia Ward Howe was also a driving force behind the eventual holiday; in 1870 she wrote to mothers, calling them to promote peace, in a document entitled “Mothers Day Proclamation.” Three years later, she campaigned to have a “Mothers Peace Day” celebrated every June 2nd, although the holiday never took off. Juliet Calhoun Blakely, Mary Towles Sasseen and Frank Hering can also all be considered pioneers toward Mothers Day, whose individual activist roles continued to raise awareness.

However, the final founding of Mothers Day is due to Anna Jarvis, the daughter of Ann Reeves Jarvis who founded the “Mothers’ Day Work Club” and who died in 1905.

Following her mother’s death, Anna Jarvis began to campaign for an official celebration of mothers and the sacrifices they make for their families. She received financial help from a department store in Philadelphia, and in 1908 the first official Mother’s Day was celebrated at a church in West Virginia, and also at the Philadelphia department store. Due to this success, Jarvis – who was unmarried and childless her whole life – began writing to politicians and newspapers, arguing that national holidays were biased toward men and that the sacrifices of women needed to 104

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m o t h e r ’ s D ay

May, 2014 be honored as well. Many states, churches and local communities had adopted the day by 1912, and in 1914 President Woodrow Wilson officially added the holiday to the calendar. Unfortunately, once the holiday became officially recognized, it became commercialized as well. What Jarvis imagined to be a simple recognition within families of motherhood and their appreciation for their mothers quickly turned into a moneymaking event for florists and card makers. Disgusted, Jarvis ironically spent the rest of her life trying to get the holiday removed from the calendar, and spent much of her personal wealth suing people for using the term “Mothers Day.” Thankfully she was not successful, and on the second Sunday of May we, flowers and card in hand, have the opportunity to thank our mothers for all they have done and continue to do for us.

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El Paso Independent School District

Teacher of the Year

Nominations | By: MEAGAN KINLEY |

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t e a c h e r o f t h e y e a r n o m i n at i o n s

Everyday while we are each going about our daily business, children all over our great city go to school. Every morning the buses file out one-by-one and travel to their various precincts in the city to pick up the precious cargo they will transport to one of the many elementary, middle and high school around town. You may see them, or notice the heavy traffic around the three to four o’clock hour when schools let out—but everyday when all of this is going on there are amazing teachers inside these schools teaching and giving all they’ve got to their students. To honor these special professionals the El Paso Independent School District has nominated ten of the top educators for their prestigious Teacher of the Year Award. Here is a list of these inspiring nominees as well as a short snippet of how they view the world of teaching:

Donald R. Belknap Christina Anguiano

Lundy Elementary School

Andress High School

Elementary 5th Grade Teacher

High School Biology Teacher

“Genuine respect for all my

“Teaching is an art and as with any art, a teacher must nurture the

students guides my classroom practice; I believe no other single

gift. The passion and love I have for my classroom is worn on my

factor is more important. It is a fundamental piece that builds a

sleeve everyday. I believe in teaching because I value learning.

successful classroom. My primary goal is to co-construct tools for

Teaching is not a ‘one size fits all’ nor ‘one size fits most.’ It is

my students to place in their life skill toolbox. Tools they build on

individualizing every day, every class, every moment, for the entire

their journey of self-discovery that they will reach for when their

school year, and then some. My rewards in teaching are tangible

light bulb turns on. The day that occurs is the day their toolbox

and intrinsic: my students’ ‘aha’ moments and knowing that I can

becomes a steppingstone to their future.”

sleep at night because I have given the students my best.”

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Louise Bergdahl

Gregory A. Davis

Lincoln Middle School

Douglass Elementary School

Middle School Science

Elementary Physical

Technology Teacher

Education Teacher

“I feel rewarded and so blessed to be in a profession that allows me

“My personal feelings about teaching stems from the love and

to learn new concepts every day, to constantly stretch my creativity,

respect I have developed for my instructors since starting school.

to encourage and inspire children and adults through positive

Education was and is a very valuable commodity to my immediate

reinforcement and to pass on my belief and passion that education

and extended family to this day. My parents instilled in us that

is the door to opportunity. My students reward me daily by being

teachers were to be respected and listened to at all times. They

actively engaged in their learning. For me, the greatest reward is

were the ones given the responsibility and task of building up,

when my former students return and share with me what they are

directing and preserving the next generation of adult leaders.”

now doing or what is in their future plans. I will continue to guide all my students so they can discover and reach their full potential, allowing them to share their ‘gifts’ with all.”

Blanca Holguin Sharon A. Gonzales

Dr. Green Elementary School

Schuster Elementary School,

Elementary Bilingual 3rd Grade Teacher

Elementary 1st Grade Teacher “My purpose as a teacher is to instill a belief of success in each

“My students are the ones who mold me. I quickly realized that they

of my students. One of my goals at the beginning of every school

guide my teaching style, lesson plans, and my approach to how I am

year is to discover my students’ learning styles. I strive to know

going to teach them. As a bilingual teacher, I teach students who are

and accommodate each of my student’s style of learning as well

new to this country, or are still learning English. I don’t believe that

as making the lesson personal by using techniques to create a

not knowing the English language is a hindrance to learning. I try to

memorable and enjoyable learning environment. I am constantly in

motivate and encourage my students to work to the best of their

search of new and innovative ways to keep my students engaged

ability. I am truly blessed, and I am rewarded every day because I am

and interested in learning. My wish for my students on the first day

fortunate to be able to see and acknowledge my student’s daily and

of school is the same as the last—to love learning.”

progressive successes.”

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t e a c h e r o f t h e y e a r n o m i n at i o n s

Kristina A. Mills Chapin High School High School AP US History

Alma Rojo

AP Psychology/

Austin High School

Sociology Teacher

High School English Teacher

“Every day I am presented with an opportunity to impact my

“‘You can lose your home, you job, or even your spouse, but no

student’ lives and I strive to make the most of the moments I have

one can take away your education.’ A dear friend congratulated me

been blessed with. To me, my students’ time is the most important

with these words as my graduation ceremony neared. Although my

commodity and I try not to waste it. Feeling strongly that it is

education has always been an important priority in my life, I had not

imperative that I get to know each of my students not only as a

really thought about how ‘no one can take away [my] education’

student, but as a person, has grounded me. I want to help empower

before. This phrase still echoes in my mind, and I try to instill

them by believing in them and helping them see the potential that

this concept within my students’ frame of mind using real-world

they possess.”

connections, my own personal experiences, and by utilizing and maximizing available technology.”

Juan Carlos Villarreal Transmountain Early

Carrie Stice

College High School,

Kohlberg Elementary School

High School

Elementary 1st Grade Teacher

Mathematics Teacher

“Teaching my students provides me daily rewards. I know that each

“Everyone is able to explain an idea, but not everyone is able to teach it. I

day my students walk away with a new experience, skill, strategy,

believe that many times people confuse teaching with simply standing

life lesson, more confidence, or even just knowing that someone

in front of people and talking about a topic, but teaching is much more

cares for them and believes in them. There is a saying, ‘It’s the

than that. Teaching involves the idea of being able to transmit the

little things in life,’ and those are my rewards. The little things like a

knowledge you posses in a way that people will understand it and

smile, a hug, a high five, or a picture that they created just for me are

be able to reproduce it. Teaching is an art, not just a simple action; it

some of those rewards. I believe that teaching is one of the most

requires talent, dedication, and perseverance. However, that is not the

rewarding jobs but also one of the most impacting and life-changing

main component of teaching. The most important thing, to be a good

experiences for a child.”

teacher, is to care about the students, create close connections with them, and do what is best for them to ensure their success.”

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A New Face, With The Same

Photo by: Robert Corral

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Commitment To Service

F

or more than forty years the Hoy Fox Group has provided prospective car buyers in the El Paso area with two things of

| By: MARKO A. MORALES |

significance, quality automobiles and a high level of customer service not easily matched by another. Since 1973, Hoy Fox has grown from its original Volkswagen dealership purchased

by Mr. Bob Hoy, into three different locations, representing eight different automobile franchises. Over the years, the car styles and buildings utilized to display them may have changed and more recently in the case of Mercedes-Benz of El Paso the individual in the sales manager position has changed, but the same commitment to customer service continues on.

Leslie Fleischer has handled the sales manager position and all that encompasses it for the last three and a half years. As of March, Aaron Scott Enriquez has stepped into his new role and Fleischer has returned to the sales floor, a position familiar to him and one that has brought him great pride and success.

Fleischer worked for Mr. Fox in the eighties. Due to personal reasons, he found it necessary to step away for some time. He was told the door would remain open, should he choose to return. Twenty years or so went by before Fleischer did exactly that. He returned to the business of selling cars and has been back with Mercedes-Benz of El Paso since 2005. Before joining the Hoy Fox family all those years ago, Fleischer worked in sales outside of the car industry.

Fleischer’s decision to tread back to the sales floor was made to, “Keep the ball rolling the way it’s always been, customer service, treating everybody right...the way they want to be treated,” explains Fleischer. “It is a good team up here, everybody is going to do that.”

Enriquez began his employment with Mercedes-Benz of El Paso five years ago in sales and a short time later was given the opportunity to move into finance. Much like Fleischer, Enriquez’s drive comes from his desire to provide the best aid in customer service.

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Whether an individual has simply never purchased a vehicle from Mercedes-Benz of El Paso, or they are mistaken about the size of the dealership’s showroom and what they have in their inventory, Enriquez feels that all those in the market for a luxury vehicle should stop in and see what their sales team can do for them. Aside from what one might see driving by the dealership, the sales team has access to several acres full of vehicles, all available to be looked over by anyone in the market for a luxury car.

“I want them to buy local. I want them to come here knowing that we are wanting to work with people and to truly understand they do not need to buy out of town to get what they are looking for.”

One of the new sales manager’s goals is to lessen the number of people in the market for a Mercedes-Benz who are buying from out of town dealerships and instead have them look into what types of deals Mercedes-Benz of El Paso can offer.

Enriquez brought the experience he gained while managing the sales floor at Acura, another of the Hoy Fox family’s dealerships to their Mercedes showroom. “He knows how to manage the position he is in,” Fleischer says. “Aaron knows how to work with everybody...It’s a lot of work to manage not just people...you have to manage inventory, you have to know how to structure the financing.”

It seems Fleischer is more than confident in Enriquez’s experience and ability to continue the automotive group’s tradition spelled out in its own mission statement, “To build client relationships for life by providing an experience that exceeds all expectations, through our associates ... who are professional, totally dedicated and always appreciative of our client’s loyalty.”

For years, Fleischer has had a running joke with his wife that could really be seen as a model for what Hoy Fox and its associates strive to accomplish on a daily basis. When Fleischer would make his way back home from work during his earlier years on the sales floor his wife would ask, “ Did you make anybody cry today?” Fleischer explains how he once helped out delivering a Mercedes-Benz to a retired schoolteacher. As he sat in the passenger seat, he asked her if Photo by: Marko Morales

she was happy with her purchase. Overwhelmed with the elation of finally owning her very own “dream ride,” the lady cried tears of joy.

“What really brings a smile to my face is when we know we did our

For Enriquez, Fleischer and the rest of the Mercedes-Benz of El

job... When they (the customer) actually leave with smiles and are happy

Paso employees, it is moments like these that bring them the most

knowing they made a good decision to go with what they bought,”

satisfaction. “That’s what it is,” Fleischer says, “We are all here to

Enriquez explains. It brings him great joy to be a part of that process.

strive to do well.”

The only real frustration Enriquez encounters in his new position

“Aaron is here to do well and I’m here to help him and back him up...

occurs when the public does not take the opportunity to buy locally.

It’s a good team.”

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Hidden

G

ms

Coffee May, 2014

| Written and photographed by: ANDRÉS RODRÍGUEZ |

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With a Kick of

HIDDEN GEM four baristas that work there,

“At Pinup, it’s not about sexualizing women,“

Sarah says.

Sarah says, “it’s about empowering them.”

Sarah, who makes lingerie and crafts on the

It’s 50s with a modern twist;

side, knows about women struggling with

the

their sexuality.

coffee

shop’s

co-owner

Jimmy Hernandez calls it. “It’s a different concept. It’s mom-

“I just try to show a message to the ladies

and-pop-owned but artistic at the

that lingerie is not for your boyfriend, it’s for

same time.”

you. It’s not for anyone else,” she says.

Jimmy says the idea sprung

Jimmy says their goal is not to be risqué.

from the pinup symbology of

They want to be supportive of the everyday

the 50s, 60s and 70s combined

woman. The head of the household, Jimmy

with the idea of an independent

calls her. To this effect, soccer and karate

woman.

moms receive a 10 percent discount.

Girl Power

of

The look of the drive-thru shop is not

arah Lou is preparing a cup of coffee

s

women, girl power, women doing their

only unique but also a form of expression

in a thrifted white dress covered

thing,” he says. “The cute girl next door but

for Sarah and the other employees. She

in prints of purses and hearts. Her

also very tough at the same time.”

says they dress rockabilly, vintage, indie

shaved sides, all wrapped in a pink bandana.

The drive-thru has been open for a year and

This morning, she’s dressed in pinup attire,

a half and has been kept mostly low-key.

she says as she pulls up a repurposed chair

They serve coffee and tea, in Gidget (12 oz.),

“Everyone loves Madonna, or a vintage

covered in stickers.

Hepburn (16 oz.) and Mansfield (20 oz.) sizes,

look,” she says. “Sometimes I don’t know

to keep to the 50s theme. They also serve

what to call it, but I just know that I love it.”

“We’re

about

liberation

and customers enjoy it because retro is

hairdo consists of short bangs and

always in style.

“Who doesn’t like dressing cute and serving

bagels, pizza and tacos. The coffee they sell

coffee?” Sarah, a barista at Pinup Express

comes from Anthony Pecan, a New Mexico

Pinup Express Coffee is open Monday

located at 1613 N. Zaragoza, says.

company.

through Friday from 7 a.m. - Noon and from

She’s been working at the drive-thru coffee

Jimmy says weekend ‘Late Night Pizza’

Saturday and Sunday from 10 p.m. - 4 a.m.

shop for about a year. The pink drive-thru

events are their most popular, when they

For more information visit them at Facebook.

is decked out in 50s pinup memorabilia—

stay open until 4 a.m. and serve pizza. They

com/PinupExpressCoffee.

there’s posters of pinup girls, Marilyn Monroe

also get the after-hour crowds after nearby

and the Misfits. Most of it collected by the

businesses close for the night.

5 p.m. - 10 p.m. Late Pizza Nights are Friday,

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Eli Reyes

May, 2014

Pageanting with a Purpose

| By: BRITTANY SAWREY photography by: TOMMIE MORELOS |

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eli reyes

May, 2014

A

s environmental issues take a more prevolent position in the political sphere, they’re also taking center stage in the pageanting world. El Paso is lucky to be home to Miss United States Water, Eli Reyes. At 24 she has already competed from Hawaii to China, and is far from done.

The Miss Earth contestants, who have subcategories in Eco, Water, Fire and Air, advocate for Mother Earth and raise awareness for environmental issues. As Miss Water, Reyes advocates for responsible water use, a platform aided by the fact that the largest land-based distillation plant is located in El Paso. Her journey began in Hawaii last year, where girls from every state came to compete for the title. The contestants traveled together and participated in cleanup projects around the island.

Winning the title of Miss Earth United States Water allowed Reyes to travel to China and participate in the Miss Bikini Universe pageant.

There for six weeks, she travelled to multiple small cities, learning about the culture of China. Reyes describes the experience as incredibly rewarding, “I really broke out of my comfort zone to challenge myself.” Girls from every country were represented at the pageant, and despite language barriers and different cultures, Reyes said they were unified by their desire to make a difference in the world.

When asked who has helped her reach this stage, Reyes response was immediate. “My mom has done so much for me, and she’s been my number one supporter. She’s always there for me no matter what it is, and she’s a big role model for me.” Her list doesn’t end there, though.

She names friends David Pulido and Matthew Abraham as encouragers and supporters throughout her modeling and pageanting career. She also credits Evan Skow, the director of the Miss Earth pageant for investing in her and really believing in her potential. “Everyone in the community who has supported me and believed in me,” Reyes adds to her list with enthusiasm, “its been great to represent El Paso.”

This July, Reyes will travel to Los Angeles to compete for three different national titles. “I feel that I have what it takes,” she says confidently, “and I feel that it gives me a voice and empowers me to reach out to a variety of different people on a large scope.” When

the role. “I think the most important component of being a pageant girl,

asked what she loves most about being on stage, Reyes replies

and what will make you stand out and win, is having that innate desire

thoughtfully, “I have a lot of fun with it, I feel like I’m myself. You

to make a difference. That’s not something you can buy with money

work so hard throughout the entire year to prepare … when you’re on

or trick yourself into … you either have that desire to help people and

stage it’s a short amount of time that you’re on there, but you really

make a difference, or you don’t.” Reyes’ dedication goes beyond her

have to just enjoy those moments. You’re up there and you know

pageanting; she is currently getting her Masters in Social Work while

that all your hard work has finally paid off, and this is the moment you

competing, and constantly pushing herself to be better in every way.

have to shine and represent everything you’re about.”

“It’s really just about the platform, what you’re fighting for, and what you’re going to do with the crown when you have it. Because you

Although some people may have preconceived ideas of what pageant

could just go off, buy yourself a crown at the store and save yourself

girls are like, Reyes doesn’t believe that there is one type of girl that fits

some trouble, but it’s really about what you’re going to do with it.”

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April, 2014

3 1 0 2 l r i G Summer Stout

| By: MEAGAN KINLEY photography by: DAV ANMED |

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ontinuing our tradition of opening the polls for fans to vote for their favorite City Girl, The City Magazine is proud to announce The City Girl 2013 to be none other than Miss Teen El Paso 2013 herself, the lovely Summer Stout. In the beginning of what we all are sure to be an amazing career, she has competed in three pageants, her first, Miss Teen El Paso 2012 (where she placed in the Top 15), Miss Teen Texas and of course her most recent victory in the Miss Teen El Paso 2013 competition. She has also been featured in the August 2013 issue of The City Magazine alongside Miss El Paso, Alexandria Valenzuela and we are beyond excited to get to highlight her again in this issue. “Being in the magazine was one of the biggest things for me so far this year—I was very happy with the way it turned out,” said Stout.

Summer, a native El Pasoan, is not your average teen dream. On top of balancing a rigorous course load at the University of San Diego, she is also in the Alpha Delta Pi Sorority at USD. “It’s been so fun to get involved in the sorority and be a part of all of the traditions,” explained Stout. She also tutors at a local middle school aiding seventh graders in understanding difficult math skills.

Volunteering and doing her part is a priority to Summer and she hopes to one day soon go on a mission trip and continue helping those in need.

“If I could sum up this past year in one word, it would be blessed. I have been so honored to go and attend the different community service activities and appearances that come with carrying the Miss Teen El Paso crown. One of my favorites was the pediatric oncology fashion show where all the kids got to watch. It was so awesome to see them all smiling,” explained Stout.

Summer is also incredibly dedicated to her family. Before transferring to USD in www.thecitymagazineelp.com

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May, 2014

January, she spent her first semester at the University of Texas at El Paso and again while balancing both day and night classes helped her parents with her two younger siblings whenever she had the opportunity. “I love El Paso, being here was good and now that I’m away coming here is always so warm and comforting. El Paso is definitely my home.”

Summer s also very interested in majoring in Communications and while she has not chosen a minor, we are sure that success will follow her in any field she chooses. “I am really determined in everything I do, from pageants to school and beyond. When I set my heart to doing something, I give it 100 percent,” said Stout. While she is still enjoying her title as Miss Teen El Paso, Summer has big plans for her future pageant career. “I’m definitely going to continue,” she said with that same look of determination. “I want to do a few more Texas pageants, but lately I’ve even been thinking of setting my sights on San Diego.”

Only time will tell what exciting events will unfold in the intriguing life of Summer Stout, but for now we are enthralled to feature her as our The City Girl 2013.

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an experience like no other Top of the Chase Building 201 E. Main St., 18th Floor 915.544.1135 • TheElPasoClub.com Marcelo Guerrero for Event Information Bobby Lyons for Membership Information

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THE

| By: JOSH SANCHEZ |

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May, 2014 MODEL: DANIELLE EASLEY OF WILHELMINA BAZAAR

PHOTOGRAPHER: DAV ANMED

CREATIVE DIRECTOR: JOSH SANCHEZ

ASSOCIATE FASHION STYLIST: CASSIE JEAN JOHNSON

HAIR COLOR AND STYLIST:

DAVID PULIDO OF QUARTERMANE SALON MAKE UP ARTIST: CALUDIA CASTILLO

STYLING ASSISTANT: NATALIE ROSALES

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May, 2014

Look found at

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May, 2014

DRESS AND PURSE: TED BAKER SUNGLASSES: PRADA

JEWELRY: JUICY COUTURE

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May, 2014

Look found at

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May, 2014

Look found at

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May, 2014

Look found at

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May, 2014

DRESS: TED BAKER

PURSE: SALVATORE FERRAGAMO JEWELRY: JUICY COUTURE

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November, 2013

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November, 2013

PRODUCED BY WINDY CITY MEDIA PRESENTED BY VISTA DEL SOL CONFERENCE CENTER

HAIRWARS SUPREME SALON TOUR MAY 18, 2014 • CAMINO REAL HOTEL • DOWNTOWN EL PASO Tickets and Info: supremesalon.com or (915) 591-2015 PARTIAL PROCEEDS BENEFITING THE RIO GRANDE CANCER FOUNDATION

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IN & May, 2014

Step into Spring in Style

WOMEN IN

Single Sole

Ladies you will absolutely love this season because it is just

as much comfort as it is style. Start booking pedi appointments again, because spring is here and there are so many fresh new kicks for you to step into. For a smart casual look, try out the D’Orsay flat, this shoe is a sexy transition from your typical ballet flat but features a more pointed toe and cutout sides. Go with bright hues of color for instant polish or try artsy prints for a fun vibe to punch up a simple outfit.

If you’re stepping out for the night, slide into some mule stilettos or wedges. This style of shoe is everything that the chunky heel was last spring, marking it the “IT “ shoe of the season. This backless gem has many different styles and looks best paired with skinny or boyfriend jeans. Be bold and try out Pierre Hardy blue suede or stick to a more standard look and try white, black, or tan leather.

To try a supremely relaxed look that is complete with maximum comfort, try

out this springs hottest sandal. The double band over the front of the foot displays a relaxed look but topped with pastel colors or artsy pattern choices, this shoe is no doubt a “must try” trend.

on OUT Stacks stacks on stacks

Lose the heel, this summer there is no better way to embrace the sunshine by looking comfortably effortless. A shortened heel is fine but the sky-high chunky pump can sit pretty in your closet for the time being.

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OUT | By: NATALIE ROSALES |

IN Artsy

From spray cans, to paint brushes to graphite, designers such as Celine, Chanel, and Yves Saint Laurent really sought inspiration from the art world. For this look, leave the minimal at home and go bold with graphic patterns and vivid colors. This new pattern makes us want to dip into a paint can and test out our very own creative ability.

Art print can be worn on anything, from accessories to clothes, the paint splattered everywhere and it couldn’t look any better.

OUT Boho head to toe

Last summer the boho chic look was seen everywhere, but we think it’s a tad overdone and should be taken in smaller doses. A little bohemian touch here and there is fine, but floppy hats, long flowy flared-at-thewrist dresses, paired with round sunglasses, and gladiators are looking too costume like. This summer focus on the bohemians neutral color palette with earthy shades of cream, tan and camel paired with rich

WOMEN texture and silky shirts for a luxe tailored look.

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MEN IN

in and out

May, 2014

Tailored shorts with a long sleeve

ME

Shorts on men are not just appropriate for weekends any longer especially if paired with a long sleeve button up or light sweater. If worn appropriately with a jacket, tie, and leather shoes they can even be suitable for office wear. The key to pulling off the look is a trim and tailored pant, and with spring in full session opt for running shorts on your morning jog to ensure that your legs have seen the sun. White legs and white shorts are not in your best interest, but white shorts and an oxford-toned blazer paired with a denim button up are! In order to avoid having your shorts look like the baggy cargo type, make sure that the shorts fit the slim line of your shirt or jacket.

OUT No tank you

The weather is warm, but unless you’re poolside cover those bare arms! Yes, ladies love the muscles but there are better ways to accentuate, rather then showing off in a tank. A tank top can give off many looks, some of which include the “do you even lift bro?” or the “tryingtoo-hard street wear/hipster bro.” Retire the tanks boys, we promise you will be doing yourself a favor.

IN

Go Patriotic with Alternative Chinos

Men, want to know the best alternative to denim? I’ll tell you, it’s the historic chino pant. These lightweight durable pants have served a purpose since the 1840s when British colonials traveled through India and decided to dye their white pants tan to match the dusty terrain. Eventually, every soldier was fitted in this khaki colored pant and it became the standard uniform. After returning from World War II young American soldiers began to sport these pants back home on their college campuses. Due to their durability and comfort, the style has continued to this day and the pant has served as a silent symbol of protection and manhood at its finest. Since then, these classic pants have evolved and although we suggest having at least one pair of the classic khaki color, opt for brighter primary shades for the spring such as yellow, blue, or salmon.

OUT Girlfriend Jeans

Baggy jeans for men used to be an issue, but as of lately I’ve seen men in pants that are uncomfortably tight. Get out of your girlfriends closet and find some pants that fit appropriately. I suggest a relaxed slim fit that tapers to the leg.

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May, 2014

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May, 2014

LASHING OUT

The Trends, Tips, and Tricks for Getting the Perfect Set of Falsies | By: MATTHEW ABRAHAM |

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beaut y

May, 2014

TRENDS Ten years ago false eyelashes were considered outdated and tacky, seen only on celebrities such as Tammy Faye Bakker and Ru Paul. However these days, you do not have to be a tele-evangelist or a drag queen to try this now very popular beauty trend. With everyone from the Kardashians to Michelle Obama now wearing fake lashes, this 60s-era beauty staple is now back in big way.

Today’s faux lashes are available in a variety of lengths, styles and price points, making them accessible and appropriate for a special occasion or even everyday at the office. Ever since J-Lo stepped on the Oscar red carpet a few years ago fluttering her long dramatic lashes made from real mink hair, lash manufacturers have come out with sets of lashes adorned with rhinestones, feathers, and glitter. Lash makers have also followed the burgeoning trend at the opposite end of the spectrum, creating more natural, everyday options. These lash styles are designed for the modern woman looking to add a simple boost to her own lashes. Makeup artists have long known that the addition of the right false lashes can make a big impact on the face, opening and lifting the eye in a way that is almost impossible to do with any other product in their beauty arsenal.

TIPS Choosing from the wall of lashes that now exists at your local beauty supply store can be overwhelming for the novice lash wearer. Individual false lashes can provide the most versatile and natural option for the lash aficionado. A few expertly placed individual lashes all around the eye, or just cluster of lashes placed in the outer corner of the eye, can create a look that will have visual impact but appear almost undetectable to the casual observer. Individual lashes however can be tricky to apply for the inexperienced wearer and requires not only practice but patience, as application can be very time-consuming.

Strip lashes offer a quick and more user-friendly alternative to individual lashes. When choosing a set of strip lashes, it is important to take into consideration your natural eye shape as well as the overall look you wish to achieve with your lashes. In general, a denser, thicker strip of lashes are going to be more dramatic and appear less natural than those with a lighter, sparser configuration. For instance, round eyes can actually appear smaller with a heavier set of lashes, and are best suited with strip that has varying lash lengths, the longest being toward the center of the eye just above the pupil. Almond shaped eyes are generally best emphasized with lashes that gradually increase in length toward the outer corners. For stage, a special event, or photographs you may want to opt for a longer-length false lash, however you want to avoid sky-scraper lashes for everyday wear. Not only can lashes that extend to your eyebrows appear obviously fake, they can be difficult to apply and keep in place without disrupting your eye makeup and leaving a mascara trail around your eye.

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May, 2014

Beyond lash selection, the most intimidating part of the faux lash experience is undoubtedly in the application. Many women have experienced an exasperating session attempting to unsuccessfully wrangle a set lashes on their eyes. Dreams of glamorous, fluttering lashes can quickly be replaced by frustration and a messy lid of dried glue if a few essential tips are not followed when applying false eyelashes.

1. Measure and trim your lash with cuticle scissors.

First, after carefully peeling off your strip of lashes from the box, lay the lashes along your lash line and determine where the lashes should be cut. If you have a very large eye, you may only need to trim the false lash strip slightly or not at all. Since your false lashes should never extend beyond your natural lash line, most women will need to trim the lashes a bit more. If applying an entire strip of lashes has proven to be difficult in the past, try cutting the lash strip in half, applying the outer corner half first and then the inner half next, slightly overlapping the two pieces.

2. Bend and shape your lash strip.

The most challenging part of false lash application is generally in getting the strip of lashes to easily lay and stay put against the natural lash line. Lashes that are not as thick and that are more pliable at the base will be easier to apply. Human hair lashes are going to be easier to place and maneuver along the lash line than synthetic lashes which, while generally cheaper, are also stiffer and harder to apply. Regardless which strip lash you have selected, taking the time to shape a bend in the strip to be similar to your eye shape will make application significantly less cumbersome. After trimming your lashes, grasp the lash strip gently at each end and bend the strip into a u shape, moving the lash back and forth working a permanent curve in the strip. This will make the lashes a breeze to place along the natural curve of your lash line.

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beaut y

3. Use a good eyelash glue sparingly and be sure to let it dry a bit before placing the lashes on your eyes.

Never use the tiny bottle of generic glue that comes with the box of lashes and also avoid the temptation to purchase cheap dollar-store eyelash adhesive. Investing in a good-quality adhesive such a DUO eyelash adhesive will assure that your eyelashes go on easily, stay on, and are easy to remove. After you have shaped your lashes, take your adhesive and place a tiny drop the back of your hand or the eyelash box. Holding the lashes with a pair of tweezers, slightly drag your strip at the very edge of the lash line through the glue so that there is barely a trace of the glue on the entire lash. One of the biggest mistakes made in lash application is

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but it takes much less glue to apply a strip of lashes than most think.

After the glue is applied wait about 15 seconds for the glue to begin to dry and become tacky before attempting to place it on your eye, otherwise the lash will slip around and not stay in place. Next place the strip right on top of your own lashes as close to the natural lash line as possible. If you place the lashes on your lid or there is a large space between your false lash and your natural lash line, gently push the strip toward your lash line with your tweezers to try to close this gap. You can always fill in this gap with a bit of eyeliner or dark shadow if you don’t get it lay just right the first time.

With false eyelashes increasingly popping up on magazines, runways and celebrities all over the globe the last five years, this is one beauty trend is that appears not be going anywhere anytime soon. Even the most conservative and formerly skeptical beauty junkies have embraced false eyelashes and their ability to boost and brighten the eye. With a little a practice, patience and bit of courage you may find applying your favorite set of false lashes downright addictive.

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Photo by: Rafal Wegiel, Edges Salon & Spa

Hair Wars

Photo by: Pixyst

| By: VALENTIN SANDOVAL |

Supreme Salon Tour

Coming to El Paso

R

eality television has taken over

had a flavor for the fresh and authentic. Now

The other format we’re seeing is a blending of

the market. It’s a far cry from

we can create genres based off of the variety

reality TV with game show like competition.

MTV’s first couple of seasons

of shows out there, for example: “Jersey

This is a formula that is suspenseful, engaging,

of the “Real World” with

Shore,”

insightful, and downright entertaining. You

characters like Pedro and Puck-

“The Bachelor,” to name a few.

-these shows were riveting and

www.thecitymagazineelp.com

“The

Kardashians,”

“Survivor,”

create a layout, rules, celebrity hosts, and judges. Whatever the subject matter maybe 141

H A I R WA R S

May, 2014

Photo by: David Kelley

Photo by: Pixyst is relative, you have the layout and you drop

of Moline’s booming career. He’s acquired

peer that many confused him with, celebrity

in the ingredients for a successful show.

his vision and sensibility after 15 years in

finalist Ben Mollin as seen on the BRAVO

the business. Moline tells me how in the

television show “Shear Genius.” Moline

In this case, the key ingredient is hair. Yes,

entertainment industry, there are many

thought his style and approach to hair were

hair. It makes perfect sense. Hair Wars is

avenues that one can take to spread out

genius. He’s a respected educator in the

a nationally recognized salon competition

and learn new techniques to getting one’s

industry. So he felt that the next inevitable

where top local salons in each region have

product or idea into the limelight. Moline

step was to have him be the host of Hair

the opportunity to showcase their artistic

gained his experience in his hometown of

Wars. Other key players that have helped

side by featuring one-of-a-kind, extravagant,

Chicago, where his primary responsibilities

make Hair Wars a success are Jessica

creations down the runway. I asked inventor,

included promoter/producer role at Circus,

Bustamante and Chris Sanchez.

Executive Producer Benjamin Moline to

the largest, most prestigious nightclub in

clarify what this extravaganza is:

Chicago. The idea was birthed while coming

Their headquarters are located in Chicago

up with concepts for entertaining shows that

while he lives in Scottsdale, Arizona. The

would bring in massive crowds.

Supreme Salon Tour travels through Chicago,

“Our goal is to find the best salons, stylists, makeup

artists,

models,

Las Vegas, Los Angeles, Vancouver, Calgary,

accessories,

costuming, fashion lines, and designers

“I knew I needed to come up with a mega

and El Paso. The national final is in Vegas

in the industry to compete in the ultimate

idea for a mega club. Hair and fashion were

and the world finals are held in Scottsdale.

runway competition.”

such an obvious pairing for me. That’s where

Celebrity,

it all started. That’s how this became the

professionals encompass this group of

Super Bowl of hair.”

trendsetting individuals that come together

Benjamin Moline is a modern day linchpin,

and

beauty

industry

to highlight the best of the best within their

a dream maker of sorts. I thought it very interesting when he called himself a snow

The idea then morphed into a project that

falcon of the younger, faster breed. And the

then, grew off into Las Vegas and Los

trail to his flight is seen clearly in the skies

Angeles. One of Moline’s inspirations was a

142

fashion

highly energetic field.

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May, 2014

H A I R WA R S

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prestige to every stop on the tour.”

It’s the largest runway hair and fashion show Some of the previous judges include: Angela

in the world, and it’s coming to El Paso.

Avorio, Director of Education for Ben Mollin Hair Education; Rene Jimenez Celebrity Hair

According to Moline, this kind of event assists

and Makeup Artist featured on Life and Style

in shortening the gap between quality of life

Magazine; Joey Galon, Reality TV Personality,

found in major American cities. According to

Fashion Designer, and Pageant Coach, and

Moline, El Paso is growing and needs to be

AK Mack, Director of Education at the Toni &

treated as such.

Guy Academy.

The show has a successful sizzler reel and is The judges select the top two salons for a

a hot item in Los Angeles, with six different

trophy, cash, prizes, and the opportunity to

offers. The future plans are going to Miami,

move with networking. They then get to move

Los Angeles, and Mexico. Hair Wars will then

onto the world finals held every two years.

take over an entire resort for the weekend.

So in the near future expect to see a Hair

To say winning this competition is prestigious

Wars TV show. Benjamin Moline’s passion

would be a gross understatement.

for hair, fashion, and entertainment has now become the rest of the world’s love affair.

“We’ve had many sponsors: every major brand, hair products or tools, everything down to Fiat cars, many local and regional www.thecitymagazineelp.com

143

eauty B

May, 2014

t s a e B is the

MARTINEZ, | By: PATRICK L. N, B.S. NU TRITIO AINER, TR S ES CERTIFIED FITN S ES TN CERTIFIED FI | H AC CO N NU TRITIO

144

t ’ n d l u o h s s ie Why lad o t s e m o c it be shy when . s t u o k r o w h toug

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fitness

May, 2014

I

I t

get it. Zumba, Yoga, and Pilates are fun, low impact, and trendy. As a matter of fact, I love Zumba, Yoga, and Pilates myself and they are great when incorporated with strength training. They maintain flexibility, which helps to prevent injuries. But, and I do mean “but,” they should not be the only forms of physical activities women should focus on. There is so much more out there for women. You

just have to find what you like and believe in yourself.

I’m not suggesting that all women should become power lifters or body builders. Heck, I’m not even saying you should be a figure competitor.

What I am saying is that you need to incorporate some strength training and some ridiculously challenging conditioning work. I don’t care if it’s Cross Fit, gymnastics, pole fitness, or regular weight lifting. I only care that you do something out of your norm. The great thing about Yoga pants is that they can be worn while working out and not just in the Yoga studio.

All of my clients are women. Their ages range from early 20s to late 60s. While the amount of weight and intensity is adjusted based on their fitness level and strength, my clients know that when they show up for their session, they are going to work. I am going to push them to their limit and make them feel the workout. You can ask any of them, whether or not I earn my paycheck and they will tell you that I do. This is a results driven industry and if I don’t provide results, I don’t put food on the table. So whether I’m training a mixed martial artist or a stay-at-home mother of four, I expect and demand 100% effort in the gym.

Some clients that I have encountered have expressed concerns about becoming “too bulky” or “too manly.” They were not wrong for expressing their concerns.

They were just misinformed on what exactly strength training and conditioning

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145

fitness

May, 2014

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can do for their physique. Once I get them

because you will eventually plateau. Whether

started with the workout and explain what

it’s a weight loss plateau or a strength

the exercise is working on and how it will

plateau, your body will become accustomed

help them keep their sexy feminine physique,

to what you’ve been doing. Make your body

they feel more at ease. So, bottom line, if

work for you.

you’re fortunate enough to have a trainer, tell them exactly what your goals are. I would

So if you don’t already go to a gym, I suggest

hope that your trainers know exactly what

you find one. You may or may not decide to

needs to be done in order to help you achieve

hire a trainer, but you must decide to add

your goals.

strength and conditioning into your workouts.

Being strong does not necessarily mean

So, don’t be afraid to try something new.

being bulky. Being strong means that you

Don’t stop going to Zumba, Yoga, or Pilates.

can maintain and control your body weight.

In fact, I encourage that you continue to do

Being strong also helps prevent injuries. So

so. But when you’re not doing the dolphin

if you’re an active mom who works, cooks,

pose, do some deadlifts, pushups, pull ups,

cleans, takes care of the kids and still finds

agility ladder drills, burpees, bench press,

time to give the hubby some attention,

squats, etc. Incorporate some high intensity

then you definitely need some strength and

interval training. Keep your body guessing.

conditioning. Believe me, it’s only for your

Don’t get comfortable with what you’re doing

benefit and your body will thank you for it. www.thecitymagazineelp.com

May, 2014

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147

May, 2014

Wine & FAT | By: VIC POULOS |

148

Wine

May, 2014

are significantly less overweight than their

at McDonald’s – a place that can be easily

American counterparts. According to the

compared around the world. According to

Center for Disease Control (CDC), in 2012,

the travel website, TravelRelapse.com, up

28 states had an obesity prevalence of 25 to

until a few years ago the smallest American

29.9 percent, and 13 states had an obesity

size cup (excluding the kid’s meal) was

prevalence of 30 percent or higher, meaning

bigger than the largest European cup. The

1 in 4 people are obese in most parts of

actual plates Europeans use are also typically

the country. In 2010, the CDC challenged

smaller than plates in America, making meals

the country with a program called “Healthy

appear larger and more filling.

People 2010.” The objective was to reduce the prevalence of obesity to less than 15

Another huge difference between Europe

percent. According to the CDC, every single

and America is that American cities were built

state failed to meet the goal.

with the car in mind, while most European cities were designed for walking. In America,

P asta,

pizza,

You might not find that surprising, but you

you are practically required to own a car,

may be surprised to hear that Europe is right

while in most major European cities, you can

at the top competing with America for first

easily get where you need to go by walking

place in obesity rates. According to a report

and taking other forms of transportation that

issued by the Organization for Economic

require more effort.

Co-operation

bread,

chocolate,

cheese, and of course, lots and lots

and

Development

out

of

Paris, more than half of European adults

So while there are some key differences, it

are overweight or obese, and obesity rates

turns out that we’re not so different after all.

have doubled in the past 20 years for the 27

Whether it’s the U.S. or Europe, the obesity

member states of the European Union.

epidemic is severe, and it’s important that we all balance that great pasta and wine with

of wine. And more wine! These are just some of the things I enjoy when I travel –

Here’s where the key differences lie - there

particularly to Europe. And boy, do I really

are significant differences in portion sizes

enjoy them – by the time I get back home, I

between the United States and Europe.

usually feel like I’ve gained about 10 lbs.

According to several studies, including one by the American Society for Clinical Nutrition,

Why is it then, that whenever I’m in Paris, France

meals in the U.S. are on average about

or Florence, Italy, I don’t see many overweight

twice the size of meals in Europe. Just look

a little more salad and vegetables!

Salud!

VIC POULOS

Owner, Zin Valle Vineyards

people? How does everyone appear to be in better shape in these places that serve the best food and wine in the world? European’s consumption of wine far outdistances the US consumption of wine per person and lets face it – wine does contain alcohol and calories.

It turns out that there are a few reasons for this phenomenon, but first, let’s define obesity. Obesity is defined as having a body mass index, or BMI, greater than 30 for an adult and one at or above the 95th percentile compared to others of the same gender and age for children.

First, it’s simply a myth that Europeans

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May, 2014

www.soffiawardy.com

Hospitality | By: SOFFIA WARDY |

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T h e g i f t o f h o s p i ta l i t y

Luxury hotels do a great job of making their guests feel welcome.

Some guests find that feeling in the friendly staff, others in the scent of fresh flowers in the common areas and others in the quality of the amenities.

There is however nothing more wonderful than feeling welcome in someone’s home.

A

great host/hostess makes you feel comfortable from the minute you walk through the door, you get the feeling that they are very excited to have you as a guest. From fresh flowers to a seasonal bowl

of fruit just waiting to be plucked and enjoyed to the neverending cheese and olive platters, delicious wines, stocked gourmet pantry delicacies and filled candy dishes, the care and preparation for your arrival is evident.

Step into your guest room, and it feels like you’ve hit the hospitality lottery. A wrapped gift left on the bed—inside you might find a beautiful candle, a wonderful book, or a box of delicious specialty teas. There are more fresh flowers, a fancy bottle of water, irresistible chocolates, the latest magazines (with pages earmarked and with notes like, “I thought you’d like this story about…”). Make it personal! Place your favorite new beauty products in the bathroom, to create a spa experience.

What makes a great hostess?

The first few minutes when someone comes into your home sets the tone for the whole weekend. Have lots of munchies out and at the ready to signal guests that they can be casual and make themselves at home. You want your guests to know they can let their hair down for the weekend.

As for gifts, start with a hand-written note left in your guest’s room. When people make the effort to get on an airplane or in www.thecitymagazineelp.com

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May, 2014

a car to come visit, it’s nice to let them know that you’re putting everything aside to enjoy this special time together.

Try to make the items you leave out in a guest room as specific to the person as possible.

For example, if your guest is fluent in Italian,

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give a book of Italian poetry or current Italian magazines from the local newsstand. Does your guest have a particular fondness for chocolates or French macaroons? Seek out the newest bonbons from an up-and-coming chocolatier or local bakery.

Men love “beauty” items too. Look for an old-fashioned shaving kit with a brush and unusual razor or specialty toothpaste and a fancy toothbrush.

Pajamas and cozy slippers during colder months are always a hit.

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If you know your guest’s tastes and special interests, new music and books are always www.thecitymagazineelp.com

appropriate. Or simply sharing your favorites can be

time together at the table not over the stove.

a nice way to introduce them to something new.

Share recent discoveries with your guests …

It doesn’t have to be anything major: Even

When it comes to food, it’s nice (not to

introducing them to something as simple as

mention easier on you) to plan meals and

your favorite new ice cream will create fun

snacks ahead so that they can easily be pulled

moments and memories.

out and served after a day of sightseeing. If

www.thecitymagazineelp.com

you are staying in to share a special meal

Does your guest love fashion? Books about

together, try to keep the recipes simple but

his/her favorite designers as well as luxury

delicious so that the emphasis is on your

beauty items are always a treat.

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May, 2014

Chocolate, Martinis and Finding the Goddess in Each of Us | By: MICHELLE CROMER |

I was invited to join a wonder women’s circle that was all about celebrating the divine feminine. We were asked to bring something to the circle to share with the other women. Some brought crystals, there were some tribal beads, and one woman brought drums and danced a ceremonial Native American rave. I brought chocolate and martinis.

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May, 2014

T

SPIRITUALIT Y

he discussions were powerful, the women

Kali - represented by the color red and our root chakra. If your self-confidence

were intelligent, the snacks were delicious –

is under threat, her energy can help. According to ancient Hindu tradition, Kali

well, mine were. I worked to release my uptight

is the mother of all of us. She possesses strong will power and penetrative

notions about religious purity and loosened up

insight. She can guide you to a new fulfilling path.

my bonds of perception. I turned up my spiritual

iPod and allowed my divine stagnation to take a break.

Hathor - represented by the color orange and the womb chakra or lower abdomen. Hathor was revered as the ancient Queen of Heaven, the patron of

Understanding goddess energy within each of us can

dancers, the mother of gypsies and the generator of radiant power. She is a

help us discover our own innate gifts and abilities. It

shape-shifter and has the ability to transform your confidence and accept change.

might even lead to a new path of self-discovery.

Pele - represented by the color yellow and our solar plexus chakra, our personal See if you can relate to any of these spiritual gals:

power. Pele is said to be the Hawaiian goddess whose spirit dwells inside the largest active volcano in Hawaii. This energy helps us to be energetic, recharge and revitalize.

Pele helps us cut through denial and channel our energy in a rewarding way.

Kuna Yin - represented by the color green or pink and the heart chakra. Kuan Yin energy can help with issues of self-acceptance that prevent a sense of peace and balance. The Chinese goddess of love and compassion, Kuan Yin is a complex energy full of unconditional love. She reminds us to look after ourselves.

Athena - represented by light blue and our throat chakra which is related to communication, creativity and healing. Athena was a beautiful warrior queen who stood guard over the ancient city of Athens. Her energy encourages us to have a no fear attitude, to be tough, independent and resourceful, but to not be afraid to ask and accept help when needed.

Isis - represented by indigo and our third eye chakra. This energy helps you see both physically and intuitively and to see all things clearly. Isis, the Egyptian high priestess ruled with love and patience. Her energy tells us to gather strength, trust our inner wisdom, which will lead us in the right direction.

Nuit - represented by purple and our crown chakra, brings in the energy of understanding, cosmic consciousness, and enlightenment. To access deep understanding, self-knowledge, and wisdom, use Nuit. This Egyptian goddess is the bridge between heaven and earth. She represents universal oneness, bliss and love.

I left the women’s circle feeling sassy and sacred and I learned a great deal about goddess energy, which I didn’t even know existed. Now in moments of panic and in the face of unending need, I think about the characteristics of these goddesses, and I know that there is a reservoir of clarity and strength somewhere deep inside of me. Fortunately, we all have an inner goddess, ready to help us, eager to share her wisdom. To find her, slow down, get quiet, go within. You will feel her in your heart, and your gut, in your blood and in your bones. Spend time connecting with her. She may share with you ways to find your inner compass, or tell you how to create the life you want. You can connect with her anytime you want to, whenever you need to. Her wisdom is your wisdom. If you still can’t find her, offer up some chocolate and a martini that always seems to help me.

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Prof

s e il

“Building a Lasting Foundation for the Future.”

l o o h c S S t. C h lement’s Paris

Giving Coordinator. This manifests itself in the quality education the teachers and faculty

St. Clement’s Parish School got its start in

and develop a love for learning, to acquire

bring to their classrooms. With small class

the basement of the Church of Saint Clement

confidence in their abilities and talents and

sizes, students are given individual attention

in 1958. Through continued excellence and

to develop successful social skills for lifelong

and numerous opportunities for team building

a lot of faith, the school has slowly evolved,

learning,” explained Vanessa Ruiz, Director

and collaborative learning. St. Clement’s

carrying with it the cherished values and

of Admissions.

also prides itself on its math and science programs that fuse today’s competitive

tradition it began with 56 years ago. Today the school’s beautiful campus rests in Central

On top of a strong sense of respect for all

technology into the classroom. With a state-

El Paso serving as a beacon of promise to

students, the school also bolsters a rigorous and

of-the-art Mac and PC lab, students are given

its parents and students. Their mission is

competitive academic curriculum that integrates

the opportunity to learn the ins and outs of

within a nurturing Christian environment;

learning for optimal social and emotional growth.

programming software and robotics.

child’s academic, spiritual, moral, artistic,

“These students are not just learning skills

Through this carefully planned curriculum,

physical,

St. Clement’s Parish School promotes each “We

that will get them through their education,

the students at St. Clement’s truly excel.

strongly believe in creating an environment

they’re actually walking away with tools that

The faculty and staff know how to teach self-

that encourages, stimulates, inspires and

will give them life long learning skills that will

challenges our students. We provide the

help and empower them as they go on to

opportunity and support for students to grow

engage in society,” said Jolene Keipp, Annual

and

intellectual

158 | SPECIAL ADVERTISING

growth.

By: MEAGAN KINLEY photographed by: ROBERT CORRAL

learning skills that enable each student to create and hit their academic goals. “These kids are like-minded, they push and motivate

Outside of academics, St. Clement’s also

provide the highest quality education to our

each other to succeed—it’s truly inspiring to

encourages their students to reach out to

students,” said Ruiz. “This is an investment

watch,” recalled Keipp.

the community. The mission of outreach

into the lives of your children that will yield

is to raise community awareness through

positive results for years to come.”

Combining this curriculum with the CATS

hands-on involvement, showing students

Program (Community Connections in Active

that they are part of a bigger unit outside of

St. Clement’s Parish School

Advisories for Teachers and Students), a

their families, their school -- and ultimately

Vanessa Ruiz,

program designed to act as a mentoring

themselves. The school also offers a full

Director of Admissions

ground to integrate social learning, this extra

range of extra curricular activities and sports

600 Montana

program serves to further promote team

like basketball, football, volleyball, cross

El Paso, TX 79902

building and community awareness. Through

country, and fencing.

(915) 533-4248 stclements.org

CATS students and parents are educated on current topics like social media etiquette,

Altogether, St. Clement’s offers the El

drug awareness, and beyond.

Paso community a quality, well-rounded education that goes beyond any other private institution in the region. “We do all we can to

SPECIAL ADVERTISING | 159

“We strive to bring families closer together by creating an experience worth repeating.”

Jungle Jaks

so supportive, and hopes to expand by franchising its El Paso pilot concept. Jungle

Upon realizing the lack of local entertainment

With an all-inclusive space, Cohen mentions

Jaks also collaborates with most schools, as

options for small children to enjoy, Olivier &

the strategically designed fast-casual dining

well as local business and the City to promote

Toni Cohen moved from Miami to El Paso and

menu for parents and kids to enjoy. Jungle

special events and group sales. Jungle Jaks

decided to create Jungle Jaks. The Cohen’s

Jaks’ newest attraction, Zero Shock Stunt

strives to “bring families closer together by

concept was to “provide a place where the

Jump is a thrilling and safe activity where

creating an experience worth repeating.”

kids (crawlers to 11 years old) can interact with

kids jump from a somewhat eight-foot

other kids and also with their parents while hav-

platform onto a huge airbag. Over the past

Olivier Cohen, Owner / Operator

ing fun.” The 12,000-square-foot facility offers

couple of weeks this attraction has become

Jungle Jaks

a unique and fun mix of indoor activities such

one of the most popular, it was definitely a

1700 Zaragoza - Suite 145

as Bumper Boats, Go Karts, 3,000-square-foot

great addition and investment. Jungle Jaks is

El Paso, TX 79936

Foam Factory with giant slides, coconut tree

celebrating its 4th anniversary and has built

Office: (915) 856-3763

climbing, Spider Ladder, Arts & Crafts and

a strong quality reputation creating a FUN,

Cell.: (915) 309 00 19

Modeling Studio Stations and much more.

SAFE, CLEAN and FRIENDLY environment

E-mail: olivier@junglejaksfun.com

Jungle Jaks maintains an intimate space and

for El Paso families.

Visit us @ www.junglejaksfun.com

design so parents can easily spot a child having fun. Everyone is given a matching wristband

Cohen and Jungle Jaks is extremely thankful

and can’t check out without it.

towards the community of El Paso for being

160 | SPECIAL ADVERTISING

By: LAURA WERTHMANN photographed by: TOMMIE MORELOS

“We believe success is based most of all on impacting people’s lives in a positive way and truly giving them the help and customer care they deserve.”

Smile C

Smile Center for Kids is the far east side’s newest locally owned and operated open bay

enter for Kids

dental office that provides conventional dental

began working for the Indian Health Service

Outside of giving 100% to their family and

service to children by offering a safe, comfortable

by providing dental care to the Navajo Indian

budding business, the Wilsons are involved in

environment and quality patient care.

population. It was in New Mexico where they

community outreach by educating El Pasoans

fell in love with the Southwest and decided

on different aspects of dental health and

Smile Center for Kids was opened by Dr.

to follow their dream of eventually owning

the importance of regular dental visits. “We

Greg Wilson in December 2013. Dr. Tiffanie

their own dental office.

want to serve the community and make a difference in and outside the office. We have

S. Wilson, Greg’s wife, recently joined the practice, which they now manage and

Today, Smile Center for Kids is a faith-based

a passion for children and we strive to give

operate together.

clinic with a new facility that is complete with

each of our patients a positive experience

the latest in dental technology, overhanging TV’s

they will never forget,” said Dr. Greg Wilson.

Greg and Tiffanie met while completing dental

for patient enjoyment, a jungle gym and video

school at the University of Mississippi. After

games in the waiting area. But most importantly,

Dr. Robert G. Wilson & Dr. Tiffanie S. Wilson

completing school and marrying, the Wilsons

Smile Center for Kids offers children and their

Smile Center for Kids

moved to Gallup, New Mexico in 2004 and

parents the assurance that any procedure

12801 B Edgemere Blvd., Suite 112

completed will be done with their children’s

El Paso, Texas 79938

health and comfort as the first priority.

Office (915) 493-6310 Fax (915) 493-6316 smilecenterforkids@yahoo.com smilecenterforkids.com

By: MEAGAN KINLEY photographed by: ROBERT CORRAL

SPECIAL ADVERTISING | 161

May, 2014

Kids Excel El Paso s t n e s e r p

Mathematical Mystery Tour Coming to El Paso June 6 | By: MEAGAN KINLEY photography by: RAUL MARTINEZ |

162

www.thecitymagazineelp.com

May, 2014

Betsy Tinajera Artistic Director

Lori De Leon Rey Associate Artistic Director

“… Everything is emotional … If you want a child to learn something, engage their emotions. Get them all excited. Get them thrilled with learning. Dance is an emotional doorway into the heart and mind, the best single way of engaging a child to discover themselves.”

— Jasques d’Amboise, Founder of the National Dance Institute

I www.thecitymagazineelp.com

n October of 2004, Kids Excel El Paso (KEEP)

KEEP has lived to fulfill many of its goals and grown

began as a pilot program encompassing 280

each year to meet the community’s needs for this

children from three of El Paso’s public elementary

innovative and dynamic arts education outreach.

schools. Building off the foundation that Jacques

Today Kids Excel El Paso continues to challenge 4th

d’Amboise started when he founded the

graders to think outside the box, and use their bodies

National Dance Institute (NDI) in 1976, KEEP’s vision

to create art that inspires them to stay out of trouble

and mission is to “help children develop discipline,

by helping them maintain a positive self-esteem. “It’s

a standard of excellence, and self-confidence that

not only the GT student or the straight A student that

will positively impact their education and all aspects

benefits from KEEP . . . It’s the at-risk child or the

of their lives-one dance step at a time!” Since 2004,

child who has issues at home or the child with limited 163

kids excel

May, 2014

mental or physical ability. These classes provide unlimited opportunities and a positive mentoring relationship for every single child,” said Betsy Tinajero, Artistic Director for Kids Excel El Paso. Through the years, KEEP has touched the lives of more than 2,800 fourth grade students in 30 elementary schools all over the city.

“The amazing thing about this work is that, as a teacher, you are able to witness a powerful transformation. Over the course of a year, we see children blossom and grow as they develop confidence and self esteem.

Kids Excel is not just an ‘arts’ experience. It’s a life experience,” explained Tinajero. “The arts play a critical role in the learning process. Studies show they help children retain information and improve academic performance.”

Kids Excel is inclusive to every child and incorporates the NDI pedagogy while also fusing the Texas TEKS curriculum points so the time spent learning these activities is part of real curriculum time. The learning goals the kids cover go right along with the objectives their teachers are hitting during their core class time, this enables full, integrated learning. For example, during

164

May, 2014 practice the Kids Excel instructors teach the children sign language and call and response motions so that sometimes instructors can teach an entire class in silence. This is great because the kids pick up applicable skills that will serve them in the classroom and beyond.

“One of the cornerstones of Kids Excel class is live music, which makes the classes even more interactive. Each class is taught by an instructor and musician/piano accompanist, and the students absolutely love the pianists.

They inspire every day and serve as positive role models for so many,” said Tinajero.

To raise funds for this great cause, every year Kids Excel puts on an event to showcase the learning goals and achievement the kids have worked on all year round. This year, the event is Mathematical Mystery Tour and the program is themed around merging dance and math together for higher learning. 400 students from Tippin, Davenport, Clardy and Herrera Elementary Schools will be performing for all of El Paso to see. The event is also a Paseo Del Norte Challenge Fund Event and a ticket will include admission to the pre-show reception, the show itself, and a post-program VIP dance party. Additional tickets are also on sale for the Kids Excel El Paso Gala.

“Kids

Excel

differently

enables

about

children

social

to

studies,

think math,

science, and language arts, because they are learning it in a different way ... through dance and music,” said Tinajero.

The 2014 Kids Excel Mathematical Mystery Tour is June 6 at the Plaza Theatre in Downtown El Paso. This will be one event you do not want to miss, get your tickets today and support education and the arts for hundred of children here in El Paso!

www.thecitymagazineelp.com

165

May, 2014

Take Step

s to

C h p ildr e e K en | By: ROBIN NILAND |

166

Saf e www.thecitymagazineelp.com

Pa r e n t i n g

May, 2014 approach

or guardians still need to keep their eyes on

Always stay within arms reach of a non-

and children start looking

their children while they are swimming.”

swimmer even if they are wearing a life vest.

forward to playful summer

Many parents let their guard down once their

days, it is time for parents,

children learn how to swim, but Klingstedt

Children can be at risk around pools even

grandparents, and others

urges parents not to relax too much: “Anyone,

when not swimming. All toys, noodles, rafts,

who have children in

even an advanced/experienced swimmer,

etc. should be removed from the pool when

their lives to renew

can encounter circumstances that might lead

not in use. Children can lose their balance

their

to

to drowning. However, knowing what to do if

and fall in while reaching for something in the

the importance of water safety. Every year,

you fall in a pool, or how to help a swimmer

pool. A four-sided fence and/or pool cover or

thousands of people lose their lives to

in distress without endangering yourself can

net specifically designed to protect children

unintentional drowning accidents. According

make the difference between being safe

from accidental falls should be installed

to the Centers for Disease Control, 1 in 5

around water and a potential for trouble.”

around a home pool. However, children can

of these deaths are children 14 or younger,

Parents can watch for signs of exhaustion,

quickly learn to climb fences or open locks

and preschoolers ages 1-4 have the highest

cramps, or other distress that might not

and these precautions cannot substitute

drowning rates. Most drownings and near

immediately be noticed by a lifeguard and

for close supervision or guarantee a child’s

drownings happen in residential pools.

intervene before trouble occurs.

safety at all times.

Whether your home has a swimming pool,

inflatable or above-ground pool, hot tub, or

Summer pool parties can pose several

Learning to swim is an exciting step in a

pond, or if you will be visiting a community or

threats to a child’s safety as well. In a

child’s life, and a very important part of

municipal facility, it is important that parents

situation where many adults are in or around

becoming water safe. Speak with your

and care givers be vigilant about water safety

the pool, it is possible for a parent to think

pediatrician about the appropriate time to

and take steps to protect children from a

someone else is watching the child. Your

begin swim lessons and seek out a program

potentially life-threatening situation.

view of the swimmers in the pool can be

that is taught by certified lifeguards who are

obstructed by too many inflatable toys, as

trained in CPR. There are three local chapters

well as people splashing and make it

of the American Red Cross that offer

s

warm

days

commitment

d n u o r A

certification in First Aid/CPR/AED as

Kerstin Klingstedt, American Red Cross well as lifeguarding classes. El Paso Parks

Water Safety Instructor and Executive Director of the Aquanauts Swim Program,

difficult to distinguish between a

and Recreation, the YWCA and YMCA,

has helped hundreds of children learn

child who is playing and one who is in

UTEP, and several privately run pools

to swim, and encourages parents to be

distress. Alcohol can slow reaction time,

offer private and group swim classes for

constantly aware of their children in any pool

impair vision, and hinder judgment, so adults

children and adults. Age-appropriate swim

situation. She says, “Children should never

who are responsible for a child should NEVER

training, well-maintained and protected

be allowed around a pool without an adult

drink alcohol while the child swims. Finally,

pools, and constant parental supervision

who is able to swim watching them. Even if

parents should not rely on flotation devices

are three important steps to safe – and fun

you are at a pool that has lifeguards, parents

to keep a child safe while playing in the water.

– Summer swimming.

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167

! r e m m u S r o f t u O s ’ l o Scho N | By: JOLE

E REZA K

EIPP |

. anicking p e r a s ent , and par g in tudents k s in d r n h a s k are brea eir , shorts summer g r o in f is r g f for th in is s ie l a y e e r r l u e c f r r h o l be The me ee ited sig Paso wil n u l E nts agr a s e s t r o u a r p o c l a l g s t tin st a School d. Almo , are le r e a g h a eep them e k t b a o h t n a w y c it r e ess ool no mat t o a nec s Hey, sch l . a n ideal so is io t t e a o r r e n e h is ib t l g ut mes break b ideo ga upcomin d. v is h o t t d d e e rderlan ne lu o g s B t r e n o h e e t d t in nl ou that stu inside o hrough s t r d u e o r h e f of nding ps being m busy. Spe a c r e umm e some s r a 168 e r e h

!

May, 2014

UTEP Beginning Reading Programs

El Paso Art Museum

Whether it’s getting a head start for Kindergarten or brushing up on the

Your kids can spend the summer engrossed in creativity at the

basics with your 10-year-old this reading camp will help your children

El Paso Museum of Art camps including creating mixed media

retain the reading skills they worked hard on during the school year.

pieces, replicating the El Paso scenery using chalk and pastels

This reading readiness course is offered at the UTEP campus and in

and constructing finger and hand puppets. The camps begin in

the Eastside Vista Ysleta United Methodist Church. The classes begin

June and are open to children from 6-years-old and up. Look into

in June and will help develop the skills, comprehension and motivation

the Draw, Cartoon and Comic camp where students will have the

for students in Kindergarten through fifth grade. For more information

opportunity to explore cartooning and anime techniques! Visit the

call (800) 978-3532.

El Paso Art Museum website or call (915) 532-1707 to register.

Tasty Tempting Treats by Tanya Encourage your child’s inner pastry chef with this fun and exclusive camp! Learn to decorate cakes, make Rice Krispy sculptures, jello aquariums, sugar flowers, pulled taffy and more. The camp is August 4-15th Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays with a Parent Tea Party given once the course has been completed. Students’ ages 6-9 are from 12:00 to 2:00 pm and ages 10-14 begin at 3:305:30 pm. The camp is held at the Von Mittenwald home in the Upper Valley. Contact Tanya at tanyamgt@gmail.com or (714) 5537373 by August 1 to enroll.

I Painted That Social Art The exciting atmosphere at the I Painted That art studio is an ideal way for your children to socialize and meet new friends in a cool guided setting. Students will receive step-by-step art tutorials by local artists, receive a free camp T-shirt and the artwork is yours to keep! Camps run June through July, Mondays through Fridays and are offered at both East and West locations. Call (915) 760-6541 or email info@Ipaintedthat.com.

www.thecitymagazineelp.com

169

May, 2014

El Paso Exploreum Interested in Space? There’s a camp for that! Check out the Space Exploration camp or try out the Robotics camp at the El Paso Exploreum . “What Will You Be When You Grow Up?” is a brand new camp that’s in high demand. Campers will visit a fire station and get an in-depth look at the responsibilities that come with wearing the yellow jackets. They’ll receive a tutorial on producing plays and what happens behind the stage. The coolest adventure will come when they visit the new Chihuahuas stadium and get a feel for a career in professional athletics. Sessions begin June 23rd and run from 9:00 am to noon and 1:00 to 4:00 pm. Visit www.elpasoexploreum.com/camps/.

Summer programs are one of the best ways to foster new talents and interests while expanding your child’s social circle. Look into the broad variety of summer programs offered through out El Paso. If your children look forward to attending the class it’ll be less stressful and more enjoyable for both of you.

CreaTECH Code Computer Camp Introducing children to technology by creating, rather than using, is the goal at CreaTECH Code.

Their fun and exciting summer camp programs can take your children to different worlds and introduce them to the world of computer programming by learning how to create their own App for smart devices, or create their own 3D game, or even more exciting; learn the fundamentals of Java™ coding to create a Minecraft © Mod and change or add to the game different elements. With any of these three camps, kids will be able to start projects from scratch and take home with them a finished product they can show their family and friends. Campers do not need to know Java or any other programming skills. This is intended to be an introduction to the world of coding, logic, and computer science.

Classes are forming now and will have a very limited amount of space. The cost per class is normally $495 but they are introducing these courses over the summer at a special rate of $395 per class and will also offer discounts for multiple sessions or additional siblings.

Camps run one full week with either morning (8-12:00) or afternoon (1-5:00) sessions.

Classes will be held at 550 S. Mesa Hills Suite E-4 and are open to children age 8 to 18.

Session dates and age ranges vary and can be found at www.CreaTECHcode.com or on 170

Facebook at facebook.com/CreaTECHcode.

May, 2014

226 Cincinatti El Paso, TX 79902 915-532-2390 www.thecitymagazineelp.com

171

The

May, 2014

o r t As d l i Ch PS CE T H E | By: GRA

A YCHIC L

DY |

Everyone can agree that each and every child is talented, special, and unique in their own way, but did you ever think that maybe the stars had some influence on their traits and personality too? Below are some of the characteristics of how astrology influences each child’s abilities.

172

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May, 2014

ARIES (March 21~April 19)

LEO (July 23~August 22)

SAGITTARIUS

Aries children are daring, just like the Ram,

Lion children are outgoing, actors, singers,

(November 22~December 21)

they take charge, have a very strong will, and

dramatic, like the spotlight on them, true

The Archer child is full of enthusiasm, high spirits,

won’t take ‘No’ for an answer. When mad,

entertainers, creative, strong, proud, leaders,

playful, with unique laughs and fun. Their honesty

they often throw tantrums.

and self-confident.

and directness can be a breath of fresh air.

TAURUS (April 20~May 20)

VIRGO (August 23~September 22)

CAPRICORN (December 22~January 19)

The Bull child is a calm, serene and loving

Virgo children are wise beyond their years.

The Goat child is considered an old soul,

child who needs to feel secure in his

Hermit - like tendencies, withdrawn but

wise beyond their years. Builders, love

surroundings, with a strong love of nature

observant. Very intelligent, organized and

stability, and structure. Down to earth,

and loves peacefulness and silence.

love helping others.

patient, and practical.

GEMINI (May 21~June 20)

LIBRA (September 23~October 22)

AQUARIUS (January 20~February 18)

The sign of the Twins is definitely two for the

Libra children are very charming and

The

price of one. Very active, physical, curious,

people are naturally drawn to them. They

imagination and sees the world through their

intelligent, exploring, athletic, talkative and

enjoy art, music, and playing dress up.

own eyes. Loves to invent and play make

always on the go.

Extremely intellectual.

believe, hates to be bored.

CANCER (June 21~July 22)

SCORPIO (October 23~November21)

PISCES (February 19~March 20)

Water

Bearer

has

a

wonderful

The Crab child is very nurturing and

The Scorpion child can be mysterious and

The Fish child is the most intuitive, sensitive

connected strongly to family and home.

quiet, a warrior, strong willed, determined.

and emotional of all. Sensitive to their

Sensitive, emotional, intuitive. Least likely to

They have strong feelings and dislike change.

surroundings, creative, will give anything to

let you know what’s really bothering them.

Never give in!

others, and most helpful.

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173

May, 2014

Summer Camp | By: BRITTANY SAWREY |

174

www.thecitymagazineelp.com

zOO

May, 2014

Are you looking for summer fun for your kids? Do you want them to keep learning during the break, but also have a blast? Well look no further than the El Paso Zoo’s ‘Zoo Camp’!

“It’s an action-packed day camp with kids learning about the natural

With the new addition of the Foster Treehouse Playground joining the

world,” Toni Marie Lopez, the zoo’s Volunteer Coordinator, describes.

already-popular Splash Pad, carousel, incredible animals and delicious

This year will focus on two unique and fascinating animals: the ocelot

food, the El Paso Zoo is already a hot spot for hot days, and a perfect

and the sloth. Not only will kids get to learn about these amazing

family activity while kids are out of school. Zoo Camp gives the extra

creatures, but they will actual get up close and personal! Zoo Camp

opportunity for passionate, curious kids, ages 6-10, to learn even

kids get to go behind the scenes in multiple areas of the zoo, meeting

more about the zoo and its animals. The camps will run from June

the animals and getting to talk to the zookeepers themselves. “The

9th until the week of August 4th, and are Monday-Friday, 9 am-12

best part is that the kids get to go behind the scenes – they love

pm. For non-members, one week is $100, and for Zoological Society

that! They get to go where their parents usually cannot go,” Lopez

members it’s $90. If your child loves animals, learning, and having fun

explains. Beyond learning, tours, and cool crafts, kids also get healthy

outside, Zoo Camp is a perfect fit, but only 30 kids are allowed each

snacks, a free t-shirt and hat with this year’s theme on it.

week so sign up soon! “It’s a really unique experience,” Lopez adds, “They learn to care for the environment and for animals.”

ur o H y p p Ha B E T T E R DOING

S R A E Y 0 3 Y L R A NE for

14 0 2 5 8 9 1 Now Serving

www.thecitymagazineelp.com

5200 Doniphan Dr • 915 845 2277 • aceitunasbeergarden.com

175

This is

May, 2014

EP BIKE MONTH

| By: KRISTOFER JOHNSON photography courtesy of: VICTOR BARAJAS/ EP BIKE MONTH |

176

www.thecitymagazineelp.com

May, 2014

I

EP Bike month

n between these mountains there are

Our own personal history on the border has

taken part in this pastime or would like to

plentiful minds looking for creative ways

embraced the love for human motor power.

again. The landscape is the desert, urban,

to dwell and how to get from one place

At the turn of the 20th century, the El Paso

suburban or outlying roads for commuting,

to the next. Reasons for getting from one

Cycle Company was located at 308 Mesa St.,

lounging or racing. Cornerstone to the event

place to another are different for different

the corner of Mills and Mesa, before it was

is the effect riding has on relationships within

people, ranging from health to fun, and

the Hotel Orndorff, Hotel Cortez and now the

the community at large and the infrastructure

contemporary functionality to pure efficiency.

Cortez Building. The El Paso Cycle Company

that we pedal on to the next destination.

invited riders and their bikes of all styles and May of every year is National Bike Month

sizes including the unicycle, tricycle, and

During the month there is a calendar full

sponsored by the League of American

for the faster and more adventurous riders,

of various styles of rides and events. This

Bicyclists and in May of 2012 and 2013 the

THE original two-wheeled big wheel, and the

includes long rides, short rides, family rides,

border community joined alongside this

penny farther bicycle.

beer-hopping rides, midnight rides, zombie rides, canyon rides, movie rides, park rides, a

national celebration with El Paso Bike Month.

In continuation of the inaugural energy from

Things haven’t changed much and EP Bike

Mother’s Day ride and a ride associated with

the previous two years, this year’s event,

Month is an open call for any style of bike

the Wounded Warrior Project at Fort Bliss.

dubbed EP Bike Month, has the foundation

and rider to embrace, from the general rider

Also part of the ride calendar is a bi-national

and is ready to roll.

to the advanced rider at any age. The month

bike stroll to Juárez. The touching on our

long celebration represents the full spectrum

culture as El Paso Del Norte is inescapable,

of anyone who, at one time or another, has

so this ride is an interesting moment that

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177

EP Bike month

May, 2014

captivates bike month. Brandon Carrillo is a local website designer and coordinator for EP Bike Month, Carrillo mentions, “Cool thing about bike month is it’s not just a specific group doing the rides or just one committee doing the rides.” This is cool because the

”Something as simple as bike racks send a big

and that naturally lends itself locally to

month long event is open to the community

message. Sends a message that this is a bike-

creative design for bike rider infrastructure.

for suggestions on rides and events, which

friendly city, bring your bike and lock it up. You

can be coordinated and added to the calendar.

have to get artistic, you have to get creative and

Bike

include the community and art which can help

infrastructure of our current and future bike

New this year will also be events that include

create awareness for needed infrastructure

lanes, bike/pedestrian corridors, protected

art and artistic design for a practical addition

that also includes more bike lanes.”

bike lanes, and shared bike lanes to be as

Month

promotes

having

this

connected as possible. These connected

that can be associated with pretty much any business or location – bike racks. Coordinated

Just like our metropolitan peers across the

routes would then be visually mapped out

with Gabe Gonzalez, co-owner of the live

state we face some obstacles in terms of

like the bus system for those looking for the

music venue Tricky Falls, is an artist call for a

connected bike lanes, but we already have

most efficient way to pedal and get to their

variation to the EP Bike Month logo and also

the premiere visual backdrop and have had

destination. So over time EP Bike Month can

a call to create designs for a bike rack in front

just the right outward suburban growth which

have more routes and different scenery to

of Tricky Falls and Hello Day Café. Tricky Falls

actually gives us an advantage. Our suburbs

take in. El Pasoans are lovingly embracing the

will have a jury to decide a winner in both of

have not been as quickly constructed and

easily contagious, fun, healthy, community,

these categories with an art show finale.

recycled by the population as other suburbs

and commuter powers behind the bicycle

can be in other populated cities, which allows

pedal to ride on through the month and until

Victor Barajas has also helped to organize

possible pockets of bike heaven to be created

next May. For more information please go to

EP Bike Month, and one of his hats is as the

alongside our bus system that already

www.elpasobikemonth.com

“unofficial” but very official photographer for

has a valuable footprint. Our environment,

some of the rides and events, Barajas added:

historically speaking, is one to be built into,

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150 May, 2014

B R EATHTAKING. I N SPIRING. M E MORABLE.

D I SCOVER YOUR IMPRESSION OF E L P A SO’S PREMIER EVENT VENUE.

W E D D I N G S • P A RT I E S • C O R P O R AT E & S P E C I A L E V E N T S • B A R / B AT M I T Z VA H S

FU LL-SE RV I C E C AT ERIN G • M ENU P L ANNING • C USTOM DE C OR • EVE NT PL A N N IN G & DESIGN

www.thecitymagazineelp.com

“Beautiful venue and incredible staff...Impeccable service.”

150 E. Sunset • (915) 585-0801 • 150sunset.com

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May, 2014

| By: JOHN DEL ROSARIO photography by: BEARD OF ZEUS |

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May, 2014

Neon Desert Music Festival 2014 The Show Must Go On! “One of the best moments I had at the

This

a

nowadays, it’s so much more than getting

first Neon Desert was when I had four or

downtown still riddled with construction

a bite to eat, grabbing a beer and listening

five different people who saw that I had a

barricades due to all the aforementioned

to music. These festivals have gotten so

walkie-talkie and that I was clearly working

development.

for

many interactive aspects to them. We want

the festival,” said Zach Paul. “They walked

space, the festival’s layout will take up less

to keep fans entertained on both days and

up to me and said, ‘I’ve never really been to

space than it has in previous years (and

that takes more than just music and cold

downtown, it feels like I’m in a different city

have two stages instead of their typical

drinks. So we’re looking at different things to

and it’s awesome!’”

four) while the event will be spread out over

bring to the festival this year to enhance the

two days on Memorial Day weekend.

experience for the fans.”

city’s push to create interest in downtown,

“We’ve been very fortunate to have the

Not to downplay the music, but this year’s

Southwest

these

support of the city,” Paul said. “That support

line-up is quite impressive as well. Perhaps

downtown happenings aren’t so much

comes from City Hall, the Visitors Bureau,

its most diverse line-up yet, this year’s

making El Paso a different city as they are

the Museum and Cultural Affairs department.

festival will be headlined by Wiz Khalifa,

breathing new life into an old one that still

I think they didn’t want to see the festival

Zedd, MGMT and Calle 13. With Wiz and

harkens memories of the “wild west” to the

leave downtown or take a year off.”

fellow rapper A$AP Ferg, this year marks the

year,

the

festival

remains

Compromising

time

in

The San Jacinto Plaza renovation, the University

Park:

All

first year that the festival will feature hip-hop

rest of the nation.

Despite the construction, the festival still

acts (if you don’t include local band Riboflavin

Paul, along with the rest of the Splendid

promises to be everything it was in its

in previous years).

Sun organizers, are doing their part as they

previous years. “We’re going to have the

look to set local Instagram filters to “neon”

same amount of food vendors and the same

“There are other genres of music that I’d

as opposed to the faded sepia tones of old

amount of merch vendors,” Paul said. “It’s

love to bring to the festival,” Paul said. “But

pictures of Billy the Kid and Pancho Villa

not going to decrease the amount of live art

we know that Latin does well, that electronic

when they bring back their annual Neon

we’re going to have. In fact, we’re actually

music is popular. So when it came time to

Desert Music Festival for a fourth year on

looking into more interactive aspects to keep

expand the line-up this year, hip-hop was the

May 24 and 25.

people entertained. When you go to festivals

obvious choice. When we asked people in

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May, 2014

our festival survey which genre they’d like to see in the line-up, the overwhelming request was hip-hop.”

Other notable acts that will be playing this year include the Bloody Beatroots, Capital Cities and Hello Seahorse!

Along with the set line-up, there will also be the return of the Silent Disco where fans gather around a DJ stage containing two DJs with no sound amplification. Fans, instead, are given headphones that are broadcasting both DJs sets where they can switch between sets with a flick of a switch and dance surrounded by the rest of the festival that can’t hear the music.

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May, 2014

Four years in, the festival is a regular fixture of El Paso’s very own “festival season.”

Along with the Texas Showdown Festival and Sun City Music Festival in the summer, Neon Desert is a service not just to the city in terms of economic impact, but to a local art scene that has been steadily making a name for itself.

“I think El Paso, in general, has seen the art scene improve exponentially in the last five or six years,” said Tyler Dudley, singer/guitarist of local band The DA. Though Dudley has been living in Seattle for the last year, he will be traveling back to make a return performance at the festival this year. “We went from this sort of barren dark age of no music scene.

It really blows my mind how much El Paso, in general, has improved and the local pride people have is kind of heartwarming and makes me pretty homesick.”

For year four, Paul sees nothing but growth from here. “I think when we first started, the vision was, ‘Put a festival on that can make it past the first few years. Let’s get it right and let’s make sure we can have it for that second year and third year,’” he said. “At this point, I’d say the vision is growth. That’s the word I keep going back to. I think as you look at year four at the artists we’re bringing and that we’ve expanded to two days, we’re clearly heading in the right direction and achieving that growth.”

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May, 2014

POLO REAL Tradition on the Border | By: ADAIR MARGO |

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O May, 2014

polo real

POLO REAL

n May 17, 2014 at the Santa Maria Polo Club in El

Paso’s upper valley, the El Paso Museum of History

Foundation will host POLO REAL, honoring Paul and

Alejandra Foster. Both Fosters play polo as a hobby and

both will be there to enjoy the match. Alejandra – from Juárez

– introduced the sport to her husband. Soon after their marriage,

Paul gave her Tom Lea’s painting, “Something about Polo” as a gift.

El Paso has an impressive polo history – going back more than 100 years when U.S. cavalry troops played at Fort Bliss. Polo’s relationship to the military is ancient, beginning with Persian tribes practicing maneuvers for battle. They invented polo to prepare for the rigors of war over 2,000 years ago! In observing polo, the Persian philosopher and poet, Omar Khayyam, saw much more to it than a game to prepare for warfare. He saw a metaphor for a higher force in human lives:

In the cosmic game of polo you are the ball The mallet’s left and right becomes your call He who causes your movements, your rise and fall He is the one, the only one, who knows it all With its superior cavalry, Persia expanded across Asia, taking polo to China, Japan and Tibet. The Tibetan name for “ball” is “pulu,” giving polo its name.

Though the sport has nearly disappeared from these ancient lands, it can be found in northern Pakistan. There on a rocky field beside the 11,000 - foot Shandur Pass each July, the rivaling teams of Gilgit and Chitra play under a full moon, following rules dictated by a descendant of Genghis Kahn!

Polo flourished in 19th century India, especially in the province of Manipur.

When a perplexed British soldier first saw it, he wrote about “hockey on horseback.” After an officer with the Tenth Hussars cavalry regiment near London read about polo in a sporting journal, he ordered his men to play. It became part of every British cavalry officer’s training, and the Calcutta Polo Club was started by British soldiers in 1862.

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polo real

May, 2014

As a young cavalry officer, Winston Churchhill

being raised for polo. The experience stayed

popularity, there were 1,500 military players

learned the sport and loved it, starting a polo

with him, and ten years later he painted

– far outnumbering civilians playing the sport.

club in India when he was stationed there.

“Something about Polo” with the inscribed

Describing a game with the kinsmen of the

“memoir of the Reynals, and the horses of

When the cavalry mechanized and horse

regent of Jodhpor, Sir Pertab Singh wrote in

the Argentine” on the back.

power became horsepower, the need for horses in peacetime and war became an

“My Early Life”: The U.S. Army relied on horses through the

enjoyment of horses for past time and sport.

Old Pertab, who loved polo (next to war)

Spanish American War as Teddy Roosevelt

Polo in Juárez became popular in the 1940s

more than anything in the world, used to

– one of the first members of the Polo

when Antonio and Octavio Bermudez – who

stop the game repeatedly and point out

Association – led the charge up San Juan

showcased the great Mexican handling of

faults or possible improvements in play and

Hill. Horsemanship was synonymous with

horses through the charros - also started the

combination. ‘Faster, faster, same like fly,’

leadership and polo efficiently trained soldiers

first polo field – a campo de tierra – near the

he would shout to increase the speed of

for war, using cow ponies bought for $15 a

old hippodromo close to Avenida Cervezeria.

the game. The Jodhpor polo ground rises in

head. Teams – including one at Fort Bliss –

After being invited to play on the green

great clouds of red dust when the game is in

were assembled, schooled and sent on the

grass of Armstrong Field at Fort Bliss, the

progress … turbaned figures emerged at full

road to compete with other Army teams. The

Bermudez family started Club de Polo Las

gallup from the dust-cloud…

Army chief of staff advised as the nation braced

Anitas near the Zaragoza Bridge. There they

for WWI, “U.S. cavalry fighters are going to

hosted Mexico’s Camacho Cup, drawing the

play polo in order to obtain poise in the saddle.”

greatest polo players in the world – and today

British cattlemen introduced the game to

players from Mexico and the United States

Argentina, a Mecca for polo aficionados

play on the grass fields on a regular basis.

today with the world’s most prestigious

General Pershing - who arrived in El Paso

tournament, the Argentine Open, and the

in 1914 and trained inexperienced forces at

majority of top-ranked players. It was there

Fort Bliss - was an avid polo player. After

Polo Real is an important event for El Paso,

on the pampas of the Argentine - visiting his

being promoted to General of the Armies

and not only to raise money for the El Paso

friend Bob Kleberg’s estancia while doing

of the United States, he invited the British

History Museum. It is a time to become

research for his 1964 novel, “The Hands

Army to a series of matches in 1923 and

part of a living tradition that goes back over

of Cantu” - that Tom Lea observed horses

1925. In the 1930s, at the height of polo’s

thousands of years.

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May, 2014

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to 50 1

NO Long Shot by any means...

This is a Winner!

T

here is a great line towards the

literally by accident, managed to have enough

story, but in this case, I absolutely feared for

end of the immortal film classic,

points to qualify for the Derby — How does

their safety on the trek to Kentucky, and was

“The Wizard of Oz” where

that happen? Is there ever enough time to

worried that “Mine that Bird,” could actually

Dorothy says, “If you look for

prepare? And can you just hook a horse

finish last in the race. The suspense builds

your heart’s desire...don’t look further than

trailer up to a pick-up and take a horse for a

throughout and so do the happy endings.

your own backyard.” The film “50 to 1,”

cross-country ride at the last minute?

This is a tremendously brilliant ensemble cast

produced and directed by Jim Wilson, is an example of that statement. No need to put on

This very merry band of bandits, including

with the likes of Ulrich, the amazing William

the 3-D glasses, when you have the perfect

trainers etc., boards a big trailer and off they go

Devane, as Doc Bloch, the Veterinarian who

story to tell that takes place in one’s own

from New Mexico to Churchill Downs for the

clearly has more than just a big job ahead of him,

backyard. In this case, at the Sunland Park

ultimate “Run of the Roses.” In spite of every

Todd Lowe, the charming Madylyn Deutch and

Racetrack, just down the road from El Paso,

odd known to man, it can happen. I promise

Christian Kane is indeed a powerful standout

Texas whereby a very ordinary horse became

you will feel the pressure of that trip, and

as the owner of the seemingly forgettable

part of what is clearly the most exciting two

breathe a huge sigh of relief upon arrival. The

horse who takes his place in history. What an

minutes in sports.

road trip alone is worth the price of admission.

engaging performance! All of the characters,

The direction is absolutely perfect as this

in spite of the odds against them and their

It is very easy to take pride in a story that

bunch faces every single solitary obstacle to

quirks, are all loveable. They all make you

begins so close to what I call home. “Mine

keep that horse from the starting gate. Once

stand up and notice their performances and

that Bird,” a horse described by many as an

they arrive, the blue bloods at the Derby simply

clearly their love of the story. That all comes

odd-looking crooked hoofed gelding, made

scoff at this crew. These amateurs will never

right through the celluloid.

his way to the finish line lengths above the

wind up on Millionaire’s Row, or will they?

This is a film for the entire family, and its

rest of the pack at the Kentucky Derby of 2009. His owner, Mark Allen, played with a

Without giving the wonderful plot away,

geographic regions know no boundaries. This is

wonderfully genuine exhuberance that you

this film is more than just a story about

more than just a 1,500-mile road trip, and there

don’t see every day on film, by versatile actor

the underdog taking home the prize. It’s an

are so many unforgettable moments including

Christian Kane, managed, through the most

adventure. The cinematography is stunning.

a bar fight early on that rivals a John Wayne/

unconventional ways, to find the perfect

Talk about one’s own backyard? The beautiful

Jimmy Stewart Western. It’s that classic!

trainer for his young horse in the form of Chip

backdrops of New Mexico radiate here, and

Wooley, played with sheer determination,

everyone in the audience at the Las Cruces,

A great story simply has to be told. This is

honesty and heart by Skeet Ulrich. The horse

New Mexico Theater where I saw the film,

one of them, and I am so happy that all of this

was as prepared as he could be under the

beamed with pride and the applause was

happened in my own backyard.

most unusual of circumstances, and then,

thunderous. Here is my issue...I knew the

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| By: SHELLEY MOZELLE |

Photo courtesy of: The Courier-Journal, Louisville, Kentucky 190

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Behind the Movie Mine That Bird, the 2009 Kentucky Derby Winner

T

They were unknown, at

least in the world of Church Hill Downs, but to the New Mexico racing world, Chip Woolley, was just another of the many trainers trying to make a

name. Veterinarian Doc Blach was known in Southern New Mexico and West Texas as the leg man, and Mark Allen, well, he was just known. Mine That Bird, he was their chance, a 50 to 1 gamble.

Mine That Bird’s trip from a $9,500 yearling to a 50-1 Kentucky Derby winner was a dubious one. Born in Kentucky May 10, in the thoroughbred-breeding world, the colt was considered a late-season arrival. Mine

Chip Woolley

That Bird’s direct lineage was unproven, he

Mark Allen

Dr. Leonard Blach

Photo courtesy of: The Courier-Journal, Louisville, Kentucky

was the first foal for his dam (mother), the unraced Smart Strike mare named Mining

the others, sired by a stubborn stallion and

Horse. On October 11, 2008, Bird -- as he

My Own, and he was part of the first crop,

an ugly mare. Even with all that against him,

became known -- was sold for $400,000 to

again unproven, for his sire (father) Birdstone

there was still something special, unknown

new buyers from a New Mexico partnership

who was famously known as the horse that

at the time -- a champion had been born.

that included Double Eagle Ranch and Buena

upset Smarty Jones’s Triple Crown bid in

Suerte Equine. $400,000 for a gelding, with

the 2004 Belmont Stakes. With an unproven

Like every trainer/buyer at a horse sale, Mine

no chance of reproduction was again, a

dam and an unproven first crop on the sire

That Bird’s first trainer, Canadian Dave Cotey,

gamble. “There was no haggling,” Mark

side, Mine That Bird was a breeding gamble.

was looking for a promising inexpensive colt.

Allen, 56, said, “They wanted $400,000 and

He was described by his breeder as a young

He saw something and purchased Mine That

we paid it.” The question has always been,

foul that was always getting into mischief,

Bird for a mere $9,500 in 2007, a once in a

why buy a gelding that had no future of a

feisty, playful, very active, and could be

lifetime purchase and clearly a purchase he’ll

cushy life spending his retirement as a stud,

seen as a young colt running laps around

never forget. Cotey, who says The Bird’s

simply reproducing? Mark Allen said, “We

his paddock like he was training himself.

favorite pastime is eating peppermints, went

wanted a racehorse, not a stallion.”

He wasn’t perfect, he had a foot that toed

on to develop the gelding that was voted the

out; he was an awkward colt, smaller than

2008 Canadian Champion two-year-old Male

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M I N e T H AT B I R D

May, 2014

Mine That Bird’s New Mexico trainer, Chip

2008 F-450 Lariat truck and trailer, the media

inside lane was best, and the fastest way

Woolley, planned to take The Bird to the Lone

made a mockery of the team. Innuendos

to a win was taking the shortest route. After

Star Derby, but his course changed when he

of the unknown cowboy-trainer hauling his

being squeezed at the start, the rider sat

got the call that, based on Mine That Bird’s

New Mexico gelding to the 25th Kentucky

“chilly” waiting to make his historic move.

past career earnings in graded stakes races,

Derby could be heard on the backside. From

Borel worked his magic, looking for holes and

he’d qualified as one of the Kentucky Derby

the start, this story had the makings of a

pushed past horses on the backside. As he

starters. This was much needed good news

Hollywood film. Former rodeo bareback rider

finished the hook (turn) and headed home he

at the time. To date Chip’s year of wins

for a trainer who’d been down on his luck, the

made his move. Leaving the rail only once to

wasn’t what he’d hoped for, the Racing Gods

only gelding in the 2009 Kentucky Derby race,

go around tiring horses, then back down on

hadn’t been on his side; furthermore he’d

a well-respected semi-retired veterinarian, the

the rail, The Bird guided by Borel came from

had a motorcycle wreck in March, which

full-of-life party boy owner, and … they were

the back of the pack with an eighth of a mile

meant he was still wearing a cast, and still

all from New Mexico. Chip was training for his

left, picking off one, two, three, and finally the

hobbling sporting crutches.

friend Mark Allen, the same stranger that he’d

eighteenth horse, exploding out of nowhere,

met and defended in a bar fight many years

like he was running on jet fuel. Imagine the

Little was known about the trainer that would

earlier, when the team that was anything but

talent, the guts it takes riding a horse with

soon become one of the most talked about

pretentious formed a partnership that will be

only a 1-pound saddle, at amazing speed,

racing personalities in the country. Chip

remembered throughout history.

and squeezing a 1,200 lbs. horse through a tight space. Not many horses will take the

Woolley, was a 45-year-old former bareback rodeo rider, who was raised in a little town in

The overnight rain turned the Churchill

rail, shrinking, squeezing through, and not

Texas, Dalhart but currently calls Bloomfield,

Downs dirt track into a rating of “sloppy” for

many riders have the courage. Only those

New Mexico home. He comes from a family

the 2009 Kentucky Derby, the thoroughbred

familiar with the race world can appreciate

of cowboys, from his grandfather who

showdown with the world’s racing elite. No

the challenge. Borel’s iron (stirrup) skimmed

starred in rodeos in the 1920s, to his dad

one gave Woolley and his horse much of

the rail, his no-fear attitude paid off. Mine

and brother Bill who are both respectable

a chance, so the real question was, could

That Bird was in a lane all his own; he was

horsemen. Chip was raised around the track,

Mine That Bird run with the world’s toughest

three lengths in the lead before announcer

an accomplished rider and even galloped his

thoroughbreds? Could he run in the mud?

Drukin made the call announcing Mine That

owns horses. Horse training has always been

Was the gelding ready for the race of his

Bird as a contender, coming on like a freight

his passion. To date, he’s known as the New

life? Jockey Calvin Borel, who’d already felt

train. At 6:30 the 153,563 attendees checked

Mexico trainer who shattered his leg when

the success of a 2007 Kentucky Derby win,

their programs to see who the number eight

he lost control of his motorcycle, the trainer

thought they had a chance. Mark Allen, with

horse was that finished six and three quarter

who hobbled to the paddock on crutches

high hopes, said his famous quote, “Please

lengths ahead of the eighteen horse field. It

during the walk over to the Kentucky Derby,

God, just don’t let him be last.” The bell rang,

was Mine That Bird, and he rallied from last

and the man who drove 1,700 miles to the

they were off, and it wasn’t a good break for

to win the 135th Kentucky Derby by 6 ¾

Derby with his broken left foot angled over

Mine That Bird. Trouble getting out of the

lengths with a speed figure of 110, running

the gas pedal and brake so he could drive

starting gate, he was left about eight lengths

the Derby’s mile and a quarter distance in 2

his gelding to the Kentucky Derby. He was

behind the rest of the field. By the time the

minutes 2.66 seconds. The long-shot Mine

2009s most talked about racehorse trainer

rest of the horses were running down the

That Bird became the second-biggest upset

who splashed into the stage of thoroughbred

back stretch, The Bird was so far back that

winner in Derby history, with a two-dollar win

racing proudly standing alongside the likes of

announcer Tom Durkin never “called” him.

wager return of $103.20. When asked about

Bob Baffert, Wayne Lukas, and other racing

You see in the racing world the announcer

the rail move, Borel said, “I wasn’t worried,

greats who’ve stood in the Winner’s Circle of

“calls” the horses that the crowd should keep

he’s a small horse and I knew I could squeeze

The Kentucky Derby.

an eye on, usually those in the first part of the

him through.” Calvin Borel’s tears flowed

pack, or at least those expected to place. As

as he patted and hugged on the gelding he

It was the trip they waited an entire lifetime

they went into the first hook (turn) Mine That

hardly knew, and kissed a rose, pointing

for -- an unlikely journey from the heart of

Bird was running in the back, trailing as much

it toward the heavens in honor of his late

New Mexico to Churchill Downs. When New

as six lengths. The Cajun Jockey Calvin Borel

mother and father.

Mexico trainer Chip Woolley hauled Mine That

was known for his ground-saving, classic rail-

Bird 1,700 miles, 21 hours from home, in his

skimming style of jockeying; he knew the

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M I N D T H AT B I R D

Photo courtesy of: Ty Wyant, Ruidoso Downs Race Track Trainer Bob Baffert was among the many

After all, this is a competition: they are

strategies, high-altitude acclimation training.

who doubted the cowboys, as they’d

out to win and this is how they make their

Did his high mountain conditioning stimulate

become known, and their horse, but when

living. They gain their secrets through other

the production of red blood cells by causing

asked to comment about the race he gave

horsemen, elders in the racing world, through

a release of endogenous erythropoietin,

credit when he said, “Those cowboys came

leg liniments, specialty-shoeing, secret mixes

enabling his blood to have the iron to carry

with a good horse.”

of nutritional feed, and cocktails whose

the oxygen? He was the only horse who had

ingredients are used as secret weapons. Just

all four legs wrapped during the race. It’s

Trainers in the sport of kings have many

like any other athletes secrets have been

been proven that lower leg pressure wraps

top secrets that aren’t shared, and why

used to enhance performances since back in

can improve increased blood return from the

would they?

Greek times.

legs to the heart; some consider leg wraps

Their methods are top secret, they skirt

One of Mine That Bird’s rumored “edges”

down into the different oxygen elevation and

boundaries – it’s what gives them the edge.

comes from one of the oldest endurance

the other horses in the Derby came up. Was

“oxygen stockings.” The Bird was driven

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M I N e T H AT B I R D

May, 2014

Ty Wyant, Ruidoso Downs Race Track that an advantage? Did he “out-breathe” the

received a police escort during the last miles

racing’s most coveted crowns, a horse that

competition? Did his black hooves and their

of their trip coming into Baltimore, and Chip

went on to touch the lives of so many, will

flare shaping have the advantage to handle

joked that he’s used to the police chasing him,

go down in history as a horse that defied

the Kentucky mud, often called “mudder

not clearing the way. The Preakness came

the odds, leaving behind a lifetime effect on

hooves?” He was the only gelding in the field,

with new mount Jockey Mike Smith, another

New Mexico racing. The Bird is retired and

was his mind on business, not having to bother

native New Mexican, who once again came

stabled in The Land of Enchantment at co-

himself with the hundreds of fillies in heat

from last through difficult traffic, and on the

owner Mark Allen’s Double Eagle Ranch with

on the backside, was he more focused? Did

final turn was closing rapidly. But the finish line

a career earning of $2,228.637.

his gentleman ways give him an edge? Was

came before he could catch the filly, Rachel

it simply the combination, the chemistry of

Alexandra, to earn a second-place finish. Then

Mine That Bird is possibly the greatest

horse, jockey, and trainer? Only Chip Woolley

in the last leg of the triple crown, the Belmont

athlete the racing world has seen in the past

and his team know, and they’re not sharing.

Stakes on June 6, 2009, again with Calvin

15 years, and justly so, has a film produced

Borel aboard, The Bird ran along the backside

after his life. The film “50 to 1” is the true

Mine That Bird earned a first place check

after taking the lead at the top of the stretch,

story of Mine That Bird’s historic race and

worth more than $1.4 million and catapulted

but was beaten down the lane to finish third.

can be seen in theaters. When asking Wilson

the meteoric rise to fame for his cowboy

On February 11, 2010, the New Mexico

how true the movie was to the real life, he

trainer and owners to return the second-

State House of Representatives unanimously

commented, “Very close, with a little bit of

largest win payout in Derby history. He went

voted Mine That Bird New Mexico Horse of

Hollywood added in.”

on to run the Preakness Stakes where they

The Year for 2009. A horse that won one of

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May, 2014

195

etiquette

May, 2014

Treat Administration Aides with Respect for Best Work | By: JOANN WARDY | A great administrative assistant enhances his organization by the way he handles his responsibilities. A responsive boss will show her appreciation by treating him with respect and consideration. Some tips: • A boss introduces his assistant as “Mr. Smith.” This gives

him a sense of dignity and special status.

• On occasion, the boss may invite her assistant to lunch,

for example on Administrative Assistant Day, to show

her appreciation. The same applies to working overtime.

It may occasionally be necessary, but to do it on a regular

basis infringes on his privacy.

• He should not be expected to perform personal services

such as picking up dry cleaning, unless these services

have been agreed upon during the interview.

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

196 www.thecitymagazineelp.com 4201 Camelot Heights Dr. by N. Mesa | El Paso, Texas 79912 | (915) 351-0032 | mixsalonspa.com | Like us on Facebook!

medical

May, 2014

NO SWEAT! Approximately 3% of the general population in the United States suffers from excessive perspiration, particularly in the axillary areas.

This condition is referred to as hyperhidrosis. | By: LYLE D. WEEKS, M.D. |

Dr Lyle D. Weeks, MD Envy Aesthetic Center 5407 N Mesa (915) 845 - 3223 envyaestheticcenter.com

requires about one hour. Normal activities

reduction in perspiration but also decreased

may be resumed immediately after treatment.

body odor and hair growth. Side effects other

Some aftercare (ice packs and ibuprofen) are

than those mentioned are minimal.

recommended for two to three days.

Cost varies in parts of the United States but the

usually is in the range of $2,000 - $3,000. Since

reduction of perspiration, but must be

the results are permanent, it is very cost effective

repeated approximately every six months

compared to Botox or other modalities.

Botox

injections

are

effective

for

to maintain adequate results. This is not the case with the MiraDry treatment, as the

For further information, contact Dr. Lyle Weeks at

results are permanent, including not only

the Envy Aesthetic Center, (915) 845-3223.

Until recently no real effective treatment was available to deal with this condition but a significant new technology has come available that treats this condition effectively. A device, called “MiraDry�

Before

After

reduces axillary perspiration by as much as 90%, often with a single treatment. Positive side effects of the treatment are nearly complete reduction of odor and significant reduction of hair growth. In fact, the device is more effective in removing hair than are the lasers used for that purpose.

The treatment is minimally invasive, done in the office under local anesthesia and usually Before www.thecitymagazineelp.com

After 197

investment

May, 2014

Zen and 10 Habits for Financial Stability and Success

M

y business partner asked me what “zen” meant. One way to think of zen is this: a total state of focus that incorporates a total togetherness of body and mind. Zen is a way of being. It also is a state of mind. Zen involves dropping

illusion and seeing things without distortion created by your own thoughts.

Just like any goal, getting your finances stable and becoming financially successful requires the development of good financial habits. Here is the top 10 list to eliminate debt, increase your savings and increase financial security for your family. I’ll talk more about these habits individually, but wanted to list them in a summary (I know, but I’m a compulsive list-maker).

Here they are, in no particular order:

1. Evaluate your expenses, and live frugally.

about this transaction — just make sure it

4. Keep your family secure. The first step

If you’ve never tracked your expenses, try

happens, each and every payday.

is to save for an emergency fund, so that if anything happens, you’ve got the money. If

keeping a 30-day list. If you have an urge to buy something, make it a rule that you have

3. Control your impulse spending. The

you have a spouse and/or dependents, you

to first write it on your 30-day list. If, at the

biggest problem for many of us. Impulse

should definitely get life insurance and make

end of those 30 days, you still want it, then

spending, on eating out and shopping

a will — as soon as possible! Also research

you can buy it (if you have the money). Just

and online purchases, is a big drain on our

other insurance, such as homeowner’s or

the act of putting it on the list (awareness) and

finances, the biggest budget breaker for

renter’s insurance.

forcing yourself to wait (delay) can make a big

many, and a sure way to be in dire financial

difference. Then evaluate how you’re spending

straits. Keep a small notebook handy, and

5. Invest in your future. If you’re young, you

your money, and see what you can cut out or

every time you get an urge to buy something,

probably don’t think about retirement much.

reduce. Decide if each expense is absolutely

practical or not, put a little tally in the

But it’s important. Even if you think you can

necessary, then eliminate the unnecessary.

notebook. Tally every urge, whether it is to

always plan for retirement later, do it now.

buy something online, or at a store, looking at

The growth of your investments over time

2. Make savings automagical. This should

a catalog, thinking about that new iPod while

will be amazing if you start in your 20s. Start

be your top priority, especially if you don’t

at your desk, or even if it’s multiple urges to

by increasing your 401(k) to the maximum

have a solid emergency fund yet. Make it

buy the same item. Whether you buy the

of your company’s match, if that’s available

the first bill you pay each payday, by having

item or not, just keep track of the urges.

to you. After that, the best bet is probably a

a set amount automatically transferred from

Many times the urges are subconscious.

Roth IRA. Do a little research, but whatever

your checking account to your savings (try

You won’t be able to control your spending if

you do, start now!

an online savings account). Don’t even think

you’re not aware of it.

198

www.thecitymagazineelp.com

May, 2014

investment

2013 Broker/Dealer of the Year

6. Eliminate and avoid debt. If you’ve got

and when you run out of money, you know

credit cards, personal loans, or other such

it immediately. You don’t overspend in these

debt, you need to start a debt elimination

categories. If you regularly run out too fast,

plan. List out your debts and arrange them

you may need to rethink your budget.

in order from the smallest balance at the top to the largest at the bottom. Then focus on

8. Pay bills immediately, or automagically.

the debt at the top, putting as much as you

One good habit is to pay bills as soon as

can into it, even if it’s just $40-50 extra (more

they come in. Also, as much as possible, try

would be better). When that amount is paid

to get your bills to be paid through automatic

off, celebrate! Then take the total amount

deduction. For those that can’t, use your bank’s

you were paying (say $70 minimum payment

online check system to make regular automatic

plus the $50 extra for a total of $120) and add

payments. This way, all of your regular

that to the minimum payment of the next

expenses in your budget are taken care of.

largest debt. Continue this process, with your extra amount snowballing as you go along,

9. Look to grow your net worth. Do

until you pay off all your debts. This could

whatever you can to improve your net worth,

take several years, but it’s a very rewarding

either by reducing your debt, increasing your

process, and very necessary.

savings, or increasing your income, or all of the above. Look for new ways to make

7. Use the envelope system. This is a simple

money, or to get paid more for what you do.

system to keep track of how much money

Over the course of months, if you calculate

you have for spending. Let’s say you set aside

your net worth each month, you’ll see it

three amounts in your budget each payday —

grow. And that feels great.

one for gas, one for groceries, one for eating out. Withdraw those amounts on payday

10. Read about personal finances. The

and put them in three separate envelopes.

more you educate yourself, the better your

That way, you can easily track how much

finances will be.

Monica Salaiz Narvaez CFP®, CLTC

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

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

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

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

you have left for each of these expenses, www.thecitymagazineelp.com

199

May, 2014

THE CITY AGENDA may 2014 1 may 1-4

Here We Almost Are UTEP Theatre and Dance will host the premiere of Here We Almost Are, a wondrous and bizarre tale of love and things lost, with performances May 1-3 at 8 pm and May 4 at 2:30 pm. Tickets are $13.

Info: theatredance.utep.edu/

1 may 1-31

Chihuahuas Baseball There are plenty of opportunities in May to come say hello to your new El Paso Chihuhuas! The inaugural season is underway at shiny new Southwest University Park in Downtown El Paso.

Info: epchihuahuas.com 5.1 Fresno 6:35p

5.15 Las Vegas 6:35p

5.2 Sacramento 7:05p

5.16 Las Vegas 7:05p

5.3. Sacramento 7:05p

5.17 Las Vegas 7:05p

5.4 Sacramento 1:05p

5.18 Las Vegas 1:05p

5.5 Sacramento 6:35p

5.27 Las Vegas 6:35p

5.10 Albuquerque 7:05p

5.28 Las Vegas 11:05p

5.11 Albuquerque 1:05p

5.29 Las Vegas 6:35p

5.12 Albuquerque 6:35p

5.30 Las Vegas 7:05p

5.13 Albuquerque 11:05a

5.31 Tacoma 7:05p

1 may 1

Hiking Tour at Hueco Tanks Enjoy the West Texas spring weather with a day of hiking at extraordinary Hueco Tanks State Park. Bring a camera, water, and a backpack! Info: (915) 744-1532

2 may 2 - sep. 19

FirstLight Federal Credit Union Presents Alfresco Fridays Alfresco Fridays are back this summer for their 12th season! This year’s events will be held at the Convention Center Plaza.

Admission is free; no pets allowed.

5.2 Sorry About Your Sister (Rockabilly) 5.9 Radio la Chusma (Latin/Reggae) 5.16 PT & The Cruisers (Classic Rock) 5.23 Brown Betty (Classic Rock) 5.30 Fixed Idea (Latin Ska) Info: elpasolive.com/alfrescofridays

2 may 2

Jerry Seinfeld From the ineffable Seinfeld to the recent, surprising Comedians in Cars Getting Coffee, Jerry Seinfeld hasn’t stopped making us laugh. See him perform at the Abraham Chavez Theatre on May 2nd at 7 pm. Info: ticketmaster.com

1

2

may 1 - jun. 19

Flamenco Dance Class

First Friday Artwalk & Ghost Tour

The El Paso Museum of History will be putting on Flamenco dance classes for the next two months, beginning on Thursday evenings from 6 to 7 pm. Principal Flamenco soloist Linda Gallegos will be instructing; each class is $10 for museum members and $20 for non-members.

Info: (915) 351-3588 or elpaso.texas.gov

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

Info: sanelizariohistoricartdistrict.com

may 2

200

3 may 3

March of Dimes The 2014 March for Babies promises to be a another fun day out with people who share a passion for improving the health of babies, and this year it’s at the Fountains at Farah. Registration starts at 7 am.

Info: (915) 590-9499 or marchforbabies.org

3 may 3-31

World Cinema Series Every Saturday in May, the El Paso Museum of Art will host an afternoon of film and culture starting May 3rd at 2 pm. The event is free to the public, but donations are appreciated.

Info: (915) 532-1707

www.thecitymagazineelp.com

May, 2014

3 may 3

A Salty Tale: History of Salt Mining in the Tularosa Basin

Concerts

White Sands National Monument invites you to see for yourself the ancient history of the region. The tour takes place May 3rd at 1 pm and admission is free.

Info: (575) 479-6124 ext. 236 or nps.gov/whsa

MORRISSEY is at the Plaza Theatre on the 13th.

1

Cashmere Cat lowbrow palace • 9 pm

Part Time Acid Mothers Temple

may 9

3 5

w/ nikki lane tricky falls • 7 pm

state line • 8 pm

Josh Abbott Band

8

graham central station • 9 pm

New Young Pony Club w/ great shapes lowbrow palace • 9 pm

Kaskade

13

10

Morrissey Black Flag

may 3

13

tricky falls • 7 pm

23

Gipsy Kings socorro event center • 6 pm

The Chain Gang of 1974 w/ wildcat! Wildcat! lowbrow palace• 9 pm

www.thecitymagazineelp.com

From 12 pm to 2 am, Robinson Street will be blocked off at Mesa and there will be vendors, art, food trucks and live music from tons of acts, including L.I.G.R.E, Radio La Chusma, VRNS, the Lusitania, Mattox, the Golden Trees, the D.A. (DJ set), Eureka the Butcher, Kilohertz, Tom Laike, Great Shapes, Our Friend The Mountain, Acid Pie, and Nalgadas. Tickets are $8-10, open to all ages.

Info: ticketfly.com

3

plaza theatre • 7 pm

w/ hor & cinema cinema

may 3

Robinson Street Block Party

Cory Morrow

the garden • 9 pm

George Lopez, wildly successful standup and sitcom star and one of the most beloved Latino comedians of all time, brings his Listen to My Face tour to the Abraham Chavez Theatre May 3rd at 8 pm.

Info: ticketmaster.com

Mother’s Day Senior Dance

w/ perhaps

Old 97s

10

George Lopez

9

lowbrow palace • 9 pm

7

may 3

2

monarch • 9 pm

4

3

30

7th Annual Race Against Diabetes 5K Thousands will run or walk this downtown 5K to support the El Paso Diabetes Association and raise awareness for the dangers of diabetes. The race starts at 8 am at Union Plaza in downtown El Paso.

Info: (915) 532-6280 or raceadventuresunlimited.com

Hilos De Plata Senior Center will host their annual Mother’s Day Dance from 10 am to 5 pm. Admission is $5 after 1 pm.

Info: (915) 533-3207

10 may 10

A-MAY-ZING Sports Event El Paso Parks and Rec, along with Move El Paso! and others, are putting on a day of sports, fun, and pushing yourself to the limit at the Westside Park and Recreation Facility. The event runs from 9 am to 2 pm; admission is free. Info: (915) 867-0838 or home.elpasotexas.gov/parks

10 may 10-11

Mother’s Day Weekend Festival Make this year’s Mother’s Day special at El Maida Shrine Auditorium. This 10th annual event features antiques, collectibles, arts and western memorabilia--over 90 vendors in total.

Info: (915) 443-0824

201

May, 2014

THE CITY AGENDA may 2014 18 may 18

Mission Trail Art Market

14 may 14

Frank Abagnale Frank Abagnale Jr., whose legendary exploits were dramatized in Steven Spielberg’s 2002 film Catch Me if You Can, will be giving his “The Art of Steal” seminar at the El Paso Convention Center on May 14th. Continuing education credits for CPAs are available. Info: (915) 577-0195

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

11 am - 6 pm; admission is free.

Info: missiontrailartmarket.com

may 24-25

Neon Desert

18

17

may 18

may 17-18

Braden Aboud Memorial Run/Walk

Spring Art in the Park El Paso Parks and Recreation Center is hosting an open-air art showcase on May 17th and 18th from 11 am to 6 pm.

Entertainment and art vendors will be set up along with several food vendors.

Admission is free. Info: (915) 544-0753 ext. 23 or elpasotexas.gov/parks

24

The 8th annual Braden Aboud Memorial Run/Walk goes orange this year for UTEP’s 100th anniversary! This event supports the B WARM Blanket Drive, the B STRONG Shoe Giveaway, the City of El Paso After School Project, school and organization grants, and various other initiatives.

Info: bradenaboud.com

This year, Neon Desert Music Festival expands to two days and boasts its most exciting lineup of performers yet, including MGMT, Zedd, A$AP Ferg, Wiz Khalifa, Classixx, Method Man & Redman, Calle 13, Capital Cities, Purity Ring (DJ Set), the Bloody Beetroots, as well as standout local acts the D.A. and Bulletproof Tiger.

Gates open in downtown El Paso at 3 pm Saturday and Sunday; Tickets and VIP passes are still available.

Info: neondesertmusicfestival.com

28 17

18

Moonlight and Miracles Gala The Moonlight and Miracles Gala is a dinner benefiting BorderRAC at Sunland Park Racetrack and Casino, and this year’s special guest is former NFL superstar Terrell Owens. There will be a meet-andgreet with Owens as well as a silent auction. Tickets are $75.

Info: (915) 838-3200 or borderrac.org

202

may 28 - jun. 1

Jersey Boys

may 17 may 18

Hair Wars Supreme Salon Tour Watch as El Paso’s top salons compete down the runway for the title of “Supreme Salon” at the Camino Real Hotel, May 18th from 5 pm to 2 am. Open to ages 21 and up. Info: (915) 591-2015 or supremesalon.com

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

www.thecitymagazineelp.com

November, 2013

203

THE CITY MAGAZINE April Launch Party at THE EL PASO CLUB | Photographed by LUIS MIRANDA, JR.

GECU’s Online Financial Education Video Launch

Child Crisis Center Gala at WYNDHAM EL PASO | Photographed by LUIS MIRANDA, JR.

Audi & Jaguar Spring Event Photographed by LUIS MIRANDA, JR.

Enterprising & Professional Women

Black & White Ball at THE EL PASO CLUB | Photographed by TOMMIE MORELOS

YWCA’s 2014 Women’s Luncheon

with speaker Nely Galan at THE JUDSON WILLIAMS CONVENTION CENTER | Photographed by TOMMIE MORELOS

November, 2013

DREAM

IN

BLACK

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

212

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

www.thecitymagazineelp.com

1122 Airway

•

El Paso, TX

•

778-5341

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