ABQ-Live

Albuquerque's Premier Source for Entertainment!

You are here: Home / Archives for Featured

ABQ Wedding Essentials

by

By Ludella Awad

American Journalist Mignon Mclaughlin once said, “A successful marriage requires falling in love many times, always with the same person.” Here at ABQ-Live, we believe that a great wedding heralds the perfect beginning to a successful marriage. 

That’s why we have worked hard to find only the most dedicated businesses ready to make your wedding a memorable experience of a lifetime.  

From the perfect bouquet, to the loveliest venue and the greatest combination of music and catering available in Albuquerque, we invite you, dear readers, to join us for our Wedding Essentials!

Desert Flowers Co

Phone  (505) 934-6823 Email  desertflowers.co@gmail.com Website  DesertFlowersCo.com Find them on Instagram/ Facebook @desertflowers.co

Photography by Crystal Cousin Photo: @crystalcousinphoto

Jewelry by Root and Feather: @desertadorned & @rootandfeathernm

The smell of peonies and eucalyptus on your big day are sure to make every step down the aisle even more memorable. Desert Flowers Co. is there to ensure the beauty of your florals is second only to your partner.

Desert Flowers Co. has been around for one year, providing their desert touch, and a one-on-one experience with customers to design arrangements that are unique to the couple and the theme of their wedding. 

Desert Flowers Co. specializes in bouquets and large floral arrangements for the big day. Options are open when it comes to rentals for geometric arches. Co-Owner’s of Desert Flowers Co., Julianne Zarasua and Madi Dow, both share an energetic passion for stunning customers with the beauty of their desert flower designs.

“We provide a special experience with the brides we are meeting with by taking away every burden from them,” Zarasua stated. 

Desert Flowers Co. is there to take care of every floral need ensuring every bride and groom’s focus on their special day is each other. 

“Enjoy every last minute leading up to your wedding day and take in all of the little moments,” Dow said.  

Mark Pardo SalonSpa

5 Locations in Albuquerque Phone 505.298.2983 Website MarkPardo.com Hours: Mon – Fri / 9 AM -7:30 PM · Sat / 8 AM – 5 PM  Sunday/ 9 AM-6PM

Since opening its doors in 1973, the friendly staff of Mark Pardo SalonSpa has made it their mission to nurture inner and outer beauty through world-class salon and spa experiences. Now Mark Pardo SalonSpa wants to extend this same quality experience to brides on their wedding day.  

Mark Pardo SalonSpa’s Deluxe Bridal Package has been carefully created to provide the most relaxing pre-wedding experience, all while pampering the bride! The package includes a manicure with gel polish, a pedicure, 30-minute Body Glow, 60-minute Tulasara Facial Treatment, Practice Bridal Updo and Makeup Application, as well as a Bridal Updo & Makeup Application the day of the wedding. 

After one session of pampering and refreshment, every bride will walk down the aisle with a confident smile from the quality experience only Mark Pardo Salonspa can provide. 

Hotel Albuquerque

Address 800 Rio Grande Blvd NW Phone  (505) 843-6300 Website HotelABQ.com Hours Open 24 hours / Located in the heart of Old Town

Hotel Albuquerque at Old Town delivers a combination of tradition and class to every wedding experience. With seven wedding venues, the bride and groom are sure to find the perfect scene to say ‘I do.’ 

Of the beautiful venues at Hotel Albuquerque couples can choose from, the Alvarado Ballroom exhibiting signature southwestern elegance and Pavilion & Gardens for a serene outdoor experience.

Through rich and authentic history, Hotel Albuquerque at Old Town offers a comfortable and unique experience that cannot be found anywhere else. The combination of New Mexican hospitality and Albuquerque sophistication, seamlessly weave together at Hotel Albuquerque of Old Town.

DJ Sider

Address PO box 1015  Phone (505) 231-2126 Website DjSider.com Hours Mon, Tues, Wed, Fri / 9 AM -5 PM | Thurs & Sat / 10AM- 6PM | Sun/ 11AM-6PM 

When it comes to having a blast on your big wedding day, Party Music Pros is here with the perfect playlist. 

Party Music Pros has been serving New Mexico for the last six years with over 20 years of Sider’s experience in the DJ and entertainment industry. Currently, they are working on a CD about New Mexico’s greatest hits, which is expected to be released soon.

For a wedding event, Party Music Pros offers a wide variety of music to choose from. This includes a basic sound package with authentic, New Mexican music, lighting, fog machines and your customizable music mix with hip-hop, rap and music from the early ‘50s — or whatever your heart desires.

Owner of Party Music Pros, DJ Sider, said he likes to feel what the crowd feels and hopes to help find what the bride and groom’s best fit is, which means sitting down with them a week prior to the wedding event. 


High Noon

Address 425 San Felipe St NW Phone  (505) 765-1455 Website HighNoonRestaurant.com Hours Mon – Thurs/ 11 AM – 9 PM  | Fri -Sat/ 11 AM – 9:30 PM | Sun/ 12PM – 9PM

What makes a good toast at a wedding, according to High Noon Restaurant and Saloon, is the quality of drinks in the glass. 

High Noon Restaurant and Saloon has been serving the community for 45 years. For a wedding event, there are a variety of quality drinks to choose from, including a full-service bar, cash bar and hosted bar. There is a full liquor catering package. 

When it comes to choosing drinks, wine, bottled beer, draft beer and a personal, customizable selection of drinks are on the menu. 

At High Noon Restaurant and Saloon, there are three private rooms available depending on the event.  For the bride and groom, specialty drinks are offered — it’s a one-stop shop for planning an event. 

Owner of High Noon Restaurant and Saloon, Carla Villa, gives out valuable wedding planning advice: “You want to do something that is fun and that is really uniquely yourself.” 

ABQ Live Photo and Video Services

Address 4615 Lomas Blvd NE  Phone  (505) 365-4725 Website ABQ-live.com Office Hours: Mon- Fri / 9 AM – 6 PM | Sat / 10AM- 5PM | Sun/ 11AM-5PM

You’ll want to remember everything about your wedding day.  And what better way than with professional photos and video from a team of photographers who have spent years focusing on amazing event, food and portrait photography and videography. 

Photography captures a moment in time. Whether that moment is your wedding day or an annual family portrait, pictures enable us to relive and remember special occasions again and again.  

Whether our photographers are using natural light or flash, unique details, raw emotions and capturing the true essence of an individual or event is their obsession. The ultimate goal for ABQ Live is to create timeless photographs and video for you and your loved ones to cherish forever.

The Bride and Groom will both be able to enjoy their day with family and friends, knowing everything will be captured for them to enjoy for years to come. 

Front Cover Photo by: Crystal Cousin Photo

Corrections: A previous version of this article contained errors regarding Desert Flowers CO. address and phone number this version of the article contains the correct updated information.

The Hidden Treasures of Nob Hill

by

By Ludella Awad 

If you’re strolling through Nob Hill, you might want to take another look at these old city treasures.  

Courtesy of www.newmexiconewsport.com

1) Astro Zombies 

For 20 years, Astro Zombies has been serving the community in a world of fun and pop culture. 

Mike D’Elia, the owner of Astro Zombies, said he appreciates every person who walks through the front door, even if they are just looking around for a few minutes

Other than providing the fun and pop culture side of today, he said he also hopes to provide a great experience through his customer service. 

The community is vital to Astro Zombies and D’Elia said he looks forward to continuing to be a valuable asset to Nob Hill. 

“Without the community, Astro Zombies does not exist,” D’Elia said. 

Courtesy of www.offbroadwaycostumes.com

2) Off Broadway Vintage Clothing and Costumes

From movie stars and fancy vintage costumes to makeup and accessories, Off Broadway Vintage Clothing and Costumes, is ready to dress the town in style.

Off Broadway Vintage Clothing and Costume shop has been in business for 35 years. They pride themselves on their antiques that can be seen on movie stars, the University of New Mexico students, and people from all over the world. 

The store sells high-end, vintage clothing from the last century through the ‘80s. Whether its a timeless piece someone is looking to add to their closet, or a costume just to rent for an event, Off Broadway has options. 

Susan Ricker, the owner of the store, shares her passion for helping others pick out clothes for the right event. 

“I love being in Nob Hill — it is the only place I want to be. It is a great atmosphere and there are a lot of families that shop here.” 

Courtesy of www.facebook.com/guildcinema/

3) Guild Cinema 

Guild Cinema has been around for 53 years, showing a variety of films that are underrepresented, including documentaries, older movies, foreign movies, and experimental films. 

Guild Cinema formed partnerships with many local organizations around the city 15 years ago. Co-owner of Guild Cinema, Keif Henley, is very passionate about the films that are shown at the theatre. 

“I would like to think we offer an exchange of ideas and culture here — a window to a larger world,” Henley said. 

He said he would like to see younger people come to Guild Cinema, but he is grateful for the diversity amongst the people that attend the movie showings already. 

Courtesy of 66diner.com

4) 66 Diner

66 Diner is locally owned and shares an authentic and historical experience to customers in Nob Hill. Once a Phillips 66 gas station during the ’40s and ’50s, 66 Diner now preserves a part of New Mexico history rarely found at other restaurants.

Because of its rich history, 66 Diner attracts many tourists from all over the world, enchanting patrons with its style and delicious cuisine. 

Cassie Brown, manager of the diner, said Albuquerque is a very unique city that has great features. 

“We really appreciate their [community’s] support through the 33 years we have been open,” she said.  

Courtesy of www.newmexiconewsport.com

5) Sachs Body Modification

If any tattoo shop has a long-standing history with Nob Hill, it’s Sachs Body Modification. Tattooing and piercing the community and visitors of the Duke City for 27 years, Sachs continues to hold the spotlight in Nob Hill. They provide a variety of body jewelry to add a whole new look, as well as providing high quality tattoos. Additionally, Sachs is the first to start vegan inks in New Mexico. 

Sachs offers customers a consultation by appointment in preparation of a new tattoo or piercing. Sachs is also well known to the University of New Mexico students who come through. 

Owner of Sachs, Callen Gurule, said, “We’re constantly changing, so if you haven’t come to visit us for a while, come stop by and check us out.”

Spider-Man: Far From Home delivers a new twist to the Marvel Cinematic Universe

by

By Calgary Maez

As the 23rd film in the Marvel Cinematic Universe, Spider-Man: Far From Home is one of the best films Marvel Studios has put out. It’s also one of the best Spider-Man films ever made with amazing storytelling, great acting from Tom Holland, Jake Gyllenhaal, Samuel L. Jackson, and the rest of the cast.

Spider-Man: Far From Home picks up right where Avengers: Endgame left off. As Peter Parker has come home from helping to save the universe, a much-needed summer vacation with all of his friends is much needed. However, Nick Fury hijacks his vacation and has him team up with the mysterious Mysterio to help fight elemental beings.

Have you ever gone on vacation only to have the experience ruined by constant phone calls from work, pulling you away from your fun? Imagine being a high school teenager on summer vacation in Europe who happens to be The Amazing Spider-Man and has to save the world halfway across the globe.

What works so much in the film is the fantastic casting choice for the characters. Tom Holland is the perfect Spider-Man and gives the character so much heart that you can instantly relate to him. He tackles being a superhero while also wanting to be a normal teenager around his friends and trying to spend time with his high school crush, MJ. Spider-Man is one of those grounded superheroes who have this immense responsibility as a superhero but also want to lead a normal life. Tom Holland nails this perfectly and makes you really feel and sometimes relate with his character.

Jake Gyllenhaal also gives a phenomenal performance as Mysterio. This mysterious ally is one of the best newcomers to the Marvel Cinematic Universe and plays a fantastic role throughout the film. The costume designs for him and Spidey stand out the most as they make them look so much more comic book accurate on-screen. The visual effects for both characters stand out as well, especially for scenes with Mysterio. Visually, it’s one of the best looking Marvel films to date.

With action scenes and dynamic casting, the film is a beauty to view. Spider-Man: Far From Home is one summer blockbuster filled with twists and turns that you don’t want to miss.

Poster courtesy of IMDb.

Griff Lamar: Return to Music

by

By Chris Castellanos

In a genre of music that celebrates the constant flexing of sex, cars, money, and drugs, one artist, Griff Lamar, decided to take a step back before diving into the alluring shimmer of the professional hip-hop scene. Back in 2012, thousands of people knew Lamar when his song “Super Swag” played on BET’s “106 & Park.” Finding himself in a spotlight, which he had been so eager to grasp, Lamar wasn’t satisfied. For Lamar, there were voices where there weren’t any before, questioning his actions: What does my music mean? What am I saying? Will I be proud of what I have done with my voice? Lamar took a hiatus promising himself that if he ever was going to come back to hip-hop, it was going to be with something to say from the heart.

Fast forward to the start of 2019, Griff Lamar was featured by KRQE for his remake of Michael Jackson’s Thriller, staged at the KiMO Theatre. ABQ-Live had a chance to sit down with Griff Lamar and discuss how he plans to move forward in his return. 

Q&A

Can you tell us about yourself?

Griff Lamar, Air Force Veteran, college graduate, father. That should have been first honestly (laughs). Jack of all trades, I film my videos, I edit my videos. I write music, I have a very particular way of doing things that help me to accomplish what I want. I have a lot of ambition and it’s always been there. I am a person who makes it happen, if I want it I get it, nothing is going to stop me.” 

Can you tell us a little about your song “Super Swag”?

I was going to UNM during that time. To be honest, it was something to do. I had just gotten out of the military. Because of the military, I had the benefit of going to college. I was more focused on the music. With the success of “Super Swag”, I gained a lot of confidence — it was like I knew this is the route.

To be constantly working is something that seems embedded in our culture, especially for a creator. While on your break, did you feel a lot of pressure to get back to creating music, or were you content in your hiatus?

I have to tell you why I stepped away first: I was conflicted about the message I was giving. I was on that whole wave of doing what everyone else was doing. Being young in your 20’s living that life, going out, partying, drinking, smoking, all of the above. –it was conflicting for me because I may have been living that lifestyle, but it wasn’t something I was necessarily proud of. I had a daughter at the time and as she got older, I started to realize: What am I instilling in her? What am I going to tell her as far as what she should and shouldn’t do? She can look back on me and literally look me up on YouTube. That was a big part of it. I wanted to keep my morals whether or not I saw that quick success. 

I had thousands of views on YouTube, but I deleted them because I wasn’t proud of them. I didn’t know what I was going to talk about, but I knew that I didn’t want to talk about that lifestyle anymore. I didn’t want “Super Swag” to be my whole image and that’s it. There is so much more depth to me not only as an artist, but as a person and I didn’t feel that I had the opportunity or platform to really show that. I wanted to please everyone or not please but I wanted the approval. All [of] that made me want to step back. I want to make sure that I look back at what I did and be proud of it, even if they [fans] don’t like it.

In your new songs. “Energy” and “Talk About It,” the idea of a complex past keeps coming up. Can you explain why that is? 

Even during the “Super Swag” era, there were plenty of songs that were more emotional, that came from my heart that had to do with my personal experiences with relationships, but those didn’t get as much attention as “Super Swag.” I wrote “Talk About It” during the “Super Swag” era, and there were other songs that I planned to release. “Talk About It” was a song I never really got behind because it was also during a time when I was wondering if I wanted to keep doing this. 

Hip-hop and rap started out almost therapeutically to tell the stories of those who seemingly had no voice. How do you explain the shift from real-life struggles to a more materialistic brag? 

It’s always been a part of it, even back in the early ’90s and it was so easy to get swept up into it. It’s not like I was lying. I had girls, I had money, I had friends and that whole lifestyle– it was just an aspect of my life I never wanted growing up. I know I wanted to create, I wanted to be appreciated for my talents. That whole lifestyle was a product of my environment. All of us are kind of caught up in this space where we pretend like it is the best thing to live that way, but the reality is that we are using this to cope with our issues — that’s what I was doing. I’m not going to shun people for doing that, because I know, I lived it. I know how easy it is to get sucked into that. I just can’t glorify that kind of lifestyle anymore.

Are there any influences in the music or crazy music video ideas from your experience in the Air Force? 

The Air Force introduced me to some really close friends. You meet people from all over and y’all bond up, you’re tight and then go our own ways. I’ve had some of my best friendship experiences in the Air Force because I lived everywhere growing up. This was the first time I got a chance to get familiar with the area. If you asked me where Central and Wyoming are, I could tell you — that was one of the best aspects of the military — a bunch of people in an unfamiliar area and we grew to know it as well as each other. As far as writing music, not right now. As I delve deeper to tell my story, I’m sure it’ll come up. 

Authenticity is another running theme in your music Can you talk about why that is important to you? 

I experienced this rare thing where everyone was my friend and no one was at the same time. I didn’t have anyone checking on me or asking how I was doing I had people asking if I wanted to go party or if I knew where the party was. No one cared about asking about me. They wanted to tell me about their cousin who raps, their brothers, sisters, uncles, their mom. They wanted to tell me about all these people who hated me and then I would see these people in person and they would make a beeline for me, shake my hand, pat me on the back and tell me I’m doing a great job. I didn’t know how to feel about it. I think everyone wanted to be cool with me because they didn’t know how far I was going to go. They would say how they really felt with friends, but in public show open support to me and it was confusing. I honestly had more respect to the people [who] stood by what they said about not liking me or my music.

The way I was raised, you communicate your differences. Communication was the way you bridge the gap between personalities and differences. It comes up in the music because it’s a reality. I’m not going to pretend I don’t have my issues, because I do, just like everyone else, but I am self-aware. I don’t get in my own way and if I do, I have people around me who are going to help me. 

What are your plans for the future?

I definitely wanted to shoot a music video for “Energy,” [so] I’m putting things together for that. I have a couple of other songs that have already been released that I am not actively pushing for I also plan to do videos for. I am starting a clothing line, and I designed my own logo. I am really trying to dig my hands into every aspect of this. I’m going to hit the ground running, go places. If you like good music, good art, I’m your guy. More than anything good work that I’m proud of. 

Griff Lamar’s new music can be found on Spotify, Apple Music, SoundCloud, and YouTube.  


     

2019 Summerween Costume Ideas

by

By August Edwards

If you’re like me, you have no idea what to wear for Summerween 2019, and you love being the center of attention. I’ve compiled a list to help you achieve all of your Summerween dreams for Saturday, August 10th at the Salt Yard.

Courtesy of www.marthastewart.com

1)  Area 51-themed: Something (Twitter) tells me that this Area 51 raid is a hot summer topic. Come as an alien, a citizen with a heart of gold, or even the Air Force. We can’t stop all of you from storming this cool, trendy costume concept.

Courtesy of www.makeupbyrenren.com

2) Any animal, really: Let’s face it; we all might just end up here anyway. Have a pair of nondescript-animal-ears-on-a-headband laying around? Do you have paint or some opaque-ish substance to create a snout, whiskers, or smear under your eyes (in a raccoon-like fashion)? A fur-colored shirt? You’re good, my friend!

Courtesy of gmispace.com , scholastic.com, halloweencostumes.com

3)  A Teacher: Sexy! Knowledge! Scorn! Teachers have made some of the biggest impacts in our lives; let’s pay a hearty homage to them by putting on our best, homiest tie or ill-fitting slacks. Remember that sweater Mrs. Howard always wore? Feel free to spice it up and make our beloved teachers the best versions of themselves. You can even put one of those old apples on your counter to good use as a prop!

Courtesy of loudwire.com
4)  A Rockstar (Who’s Music You’ve Never Heard): We all know that one song—we don’t need to know their whole story, for cryin’ out loud. Slap on a wig, dabble with some spicy guy-liner, and carry around that ukulele that you store in your closet (folks will get the gist). If someone asks you about discographies, or whatever, you can always distract them by buying them a drink.


5) Your Favorite Brand Mascot: Did someone say “I’m sponsored”? Everyone will recognize you in that bald cap, white eyebrows to match the t-shirt, and an inexplicable, singular, gold hoop earring—that’s right, it’s Mr. Clean! Be the Geico Gecko of the ball while supporting the corporation close to home. 

John Wick Chapter 3: Parabellum takes the Series to the Next Level

by

By Calgary Maez

As the third film in the action-packed, gun slinging, over-the-top John Wick franchise, “John Wick 3: Chapter 3 – Parabellum” takes it up a notch and continues the story where “John Wick: Chapter 2” left off. The series is best known for its clever use of fighting, cinematography, and cast of characters that draw moviegoers in, begging for more. 


The premise of the first film was simple; one man takes his revenge on those who killed his dog and stole his car, killing anyone who got in his way. Now, John Wick (Keanu Reeves) has to fight for his life after he was pronounced “excomunicado” for killing his target on Continental grounds, which is one rule you cannot break within the assassins guild. A $14 million hit on his head forces him to fight for his life and seek help from an old ally, Sofia (Halle Berry). John travels the world in an attempt to clear his name and make peace with the High Table, the leaders of the assassins guild, as they wage war on him and all of his allies. 

What sets the John Wick films apart from other action flicks is the cinematography. Every location is usually dark, which works with John’s character as he is most commonly known as the Baba Yaga: The Boogeyman. He fights from the shadows and when he emerges, all of the action is presented right in front of you. No “shaky cam” or unnecessary jump cuts are used. The camera always focuses on John during his fight scenes with multiple uses of angles and movements to really make the action cinematic. The locations used also stand out, especially New York with its use of neon colors and vibrant lighting. 

What makes John Wick terrifying to his foes is that he never pulls his punches and shows no mercy. He uses an array of weaponry and mixed martial arts against his enemies and always goes for the kill shot. This is what sets him apart from other action heroes because he mows down groups of assassins and mercenaries and can take any hits they dish out. The dogs in the film also take part in the action this time around and are specifically trained to take down the bad guys so John can put them down for good. 

“John Wick Chapter 3: Parabellum” is the perfect popcorn flick to be enjoyed with friends.  Reeves gives an amazing performance between his acting and doing most of his own stunts. He also works amazingly well with  Berry and together they bring a great new dynamic to the franchise. The film raises the bar with its great storytelling, amazing visuals, and cinematography, and of course, its outstanding action set pieces.

Poster courtesy of IMDb.


Dr. Fresch live at MEOW WOLF

by

It has been a few years since Dr. Fresch graced New Mexico with his presence. The drought extinguished when he showed up to perform at the already legendary Meow Wolf. Fantastic local talent opened up the night and the energy only grew. Relive and rejoice with photos from the show.

[Read more…]

Taio Taylor: Albuquerque’s 10-Year-Old BMX Idol

by

By August Edwards

Taio Taylor will be making a name for herself and Albuquerque at the BMX World Championships, held in Belgium this month. At 10-years-old Taylor has a golden, athletic spirit.

Taylor said what inspired her to start this sport was seeing Caroline Buchanan race at 7 years old.

“The next day I had my bike ready and my helmet and I wanted my dad to take me to Alameda Park so we could practice. Then we went to the actual BMX track and that’s when we really got started,” she said.

Taylor is on the Duke City Development (DCD) team where she enjoys competing with friends and family. She stressed that racing with her family is an important part of her experience with BMX, and the competition is the most fun part of the sport.

Of her experience as a BMX rider, Taylor said qualifying for World Championships has been the one to stand out the most.

“It was super windy during that time, so me and this girl had to keep competing with our elbows. And we both made it to Worlds Championship, so I’ll probably see her there,” Taylor said.

Taylor expressed that though it feels amazing to have made it, she is a little scared of the potential of falling at the track she’ll have to face in Belgium.


“When they hit the ground it’s not nice, it’s rough, but for some reason, they just don’t give up. She has the scars to prove it,” Robel Taylor, Taylor’s father, said, vouching for her toughness.

“BMX is a contact sport, so they allow you to bump arms, elbows—all of those things. For example, once that gate goes down, the aggressive racers try to take that inside lane and also try not to let someone take their lane. So what happens is that people meet up going as fast as they can around these obstacles, and their elbows hit and then boom you have a big turn so then you have to negotiate that, and whoever gets that turn best is probably going to get the lead right there,” he said.

Taylor explained her practice routine with DCD begins with getting warmed up and then proceeding to do straights.

“Once we’re done with all of them, that’s when we’ll move on to the gates and that’s when we do races to the first turn, and usually, we’ll do pump laps with no pedals, where you’re pumping the bike,” she said.

Watching his daughter on the track is inspiring to Robel Taylor.

“The sport of BMX is teetering on athletic ability and courage. She mentioned being scared—everybody is scared, it’s a scary sport. Especially after you’ve taken a spill and you know that it sucks and it hurts, then it gets in your head. So, what I had to teach her is to have a short memory. Do you lose a race? Short memory—it’s all good, it’s over, let’s go have an awesome lunch. Or, you fell, I know it hurts right now, let’s just try to let that go and get through it,” he said.

Despite her nervousness, Taylor is excited to enter the World Championship.

“When you see the first red light that’s when you go because that’s when the gate folds down…It is scary because sometimes the gate doesn’t work exactly how they want it to. There was one time where it went dink! And I hit it too fast and I went over my handlebars. I felt like I was in slow motion,” Taylor said.

Taylor has the mindset of a disciplined athlete. She is a cheerleader and practices back handsprings wherever she can. She has purple roller skates that might be a permanent fixture when she’s not on her bike.

“What would you tell little girls if they were interested in this sport?” Taylor is asked by her father.

“That if you just keep doing it, it’s not as scary as you think it would be,” she responded instantly.

When her father asks her advice for little girls that are frightened of the sport Taylor is quick to supply an answer.

“I would help her get set up, like putting her bike on her gate, and maybe if she’s comfortable enough put both feet on her pedals for balancing, and I’ll tell her when the gate’s about to drop when she can go,” she said confidently.

These answers Taio gives with no hesitation, for it is not only the competition of the sport that she loves but the comradery that comes from it.

Photos Courtesy of stores.inksoft.com/taio/shop/home

Contact us: info@abq-live.com

More News

Popular Categories