Duke City

Rhett and Link Entertain the Duke City

November 22, 2019 by Nichole Harwood

By Nichole Harwood

Self-proclaimed “Internetainers” Rhett McLaughlin and Link Neal delivered their unique style of comedy to Albuquerque Wednesday, November 20th at the Kiva Auditorium.

The dynamic comedy duo found their start as the creators and hosts of Good Mythical Morning, a popular YouTube series, before expanding and taking on other notable projects; including giving a home to the popular YouTube channel Smosh. The day after their performance in Albuquerque the comedians reached another milestone with the channel that started it all: Good Mythical Morning reached 16 million subscribers.

The duo’s performance was opened by Neal’s cousin Britton Buchanan and runner-up of season 14 of the American talent competition The Voice. He performed an active and energetic musical segment before McLaughlin and Neal took to the stage.

Once the two arrived on the stage the crowd cheered as they jumped into a popular song regarding the fragility of internet fame, even cracking jokes at their own expense.

At the beginning of their performance, the two comedians introduced a plethora of new material covering Albuquerque, or rather “Albuquirky” as the duo referred to the Duke City.

“There should be a t-shirt,” said Neal, with McLaughlin quickly agreeing stating the shirt should say, “Keep it Albuquirky.”

It wasn’t long before the crowd’s laughter could be heard filling the auditorium as both McLaughlin and Neal launched into some of their experiences with Albuquerque, including a photo with one of Albuquerque’s statues.

With the stage set after introductions McLaughlin and Neal began with familiar songs such as the “Nilla Wafer Top Hat Time Song” and “It’s My Belly Button,” performing them with several different props.

Throughout the performance, both comedians engaged with a highly energetic crowd, even bringing a member of the audience on stage after scouring the crowd for an individual named Kyle.

The audience responded enthusiastically to the engagement with the chosen audience member proving his authenticity as a man named Kyle by referring to his Monster Drink hat as the only proof he needed, earning an unexpected chuckle from the comedians themselves.

The night’s performance reflected the popular duo’s roots from their YouTube channel well ranging from over-the-top to silly, as well as dabbling in adult and childish humor alike.

As the end of their performance neared the two ended the night by thanking the crowd and reiterating what they love about live performances as opposed to their online YouTube presence.

“There is sort of a different level of mythicality that we are able to experience when we are in the same physical space with a bunch of mythical beasts,” McLaughlin said. “The internet is awesome and we wouldn’t be here without that but there is just something about being together as a family and as a herd. We’re just humbled by you guys supporting us and the stupid things that we try. From eating testicles to writing novels.”

The crowd responded with cheers to McLaughlin; members of the crowd screaming their love for the duo. Neal followed up from his comedy partner’s words expressing his appreciation for all of their fan base.

“We’re a part of your lives and it’s really an honor to hear that when life throws difficult circumstances and trials your way — we’re floored to hear that we’re part of your strength that helps to give you laughs and bring you through things,” Neal said. “We’re humbled by that. We always tell you to be your mythical best but we do want you to know that you inspire us to be our mythical best.”
To learn more about the comedy duo Rhett and Link you can check them out on the YouTube channel that started it all: Good Mythical Morning or find them on Facebook or Instagram.

ABQ Pride Parade on historic Route 66 in 2019

June 19, 2019 by Nichole Harwood

By August Edwards

The streets of Albuquerque were filled Saturday June 8th, 2019 in honor of the Albuquerque Pride Fest. The celebration kicked off with the annual parade that encouraged New Mexicans to embrace both individuality and unity.

Albuquerque’s Mayor Tim Keller spoke at the parade, giving a speech through a megaphone calling for unity among attendees.

“We’re all in this together; no matter where we came from, no matter what kind of lifestyle we choose to live, we are One Albuquerque,” Keller said passionately to an excited crowd.

Keller sported a rainbow lei and his One Albuquerque shirt while shaking hands and sharing a smile with everyone who approached him. Groups and pairs posed for pictures and children wore pride flags as capes. The celebration rang through the streets as bubbles floated through the blue, cloudless sky.

The parade started at the intersection of Central and Tulane with a performance of the National Anthem, followed by Keller cutting the ceremonial ribbon.

As the marching continued, floats adjourned the streets with balloons and streamers. Many onlookers joined marchers blending the two crowds to create a kaleidoscopic celebration.

Every few feet walked provided a new flavor of music, welcoming a variety of people with long hair, shaved heads, and synthetic wigs of all colors that glowed in the sunlight. Despite the diversity of the crowd, the message of unity rang clear throughout the event, as the attendees welcomed new marchers with every step.

The parade welcomed all, whether they were marching or simply watching everyone pass by.

From the sidelines, onlookers pushed closer and closer into the street, melding with the parade. The occasional onlooker often ran up to hug a stranger walking in the parade before they continued down the streets, side by side, seamlessly and naturally.

The parade welcomed adults and children alike with candy being tossed out to children as marchers passed by. With a tightly-packed crowd of over 1,000 attendees, everyone contributed to a welcoming atmosphere sharing stories, smiles, and tears, transferred through hugs and laughter.

Looking for images from 2019 ABQ Pride? We’ve got the full gallery HERE.

2019: Second Annual Brain Freeze Ice Cream Festival

June 17, 2019 by Nichole Harwood

The Second Annual Brain Freeze Ice Cream Festival

By Ludella Awad

It was not just children who screamed for ice cream at the Second Annual Brain Freeze Ice Cream Festival, but thousands of New Mexicans. The festival took place on June 8-9 at Balloon Fiesta Park, attracting large crowds consisting of families and ice cream lovers throughout the state.

The event provided multiple tents, housing a variety of Blue Bell ice cream flavors ready to be tasted by hungry attendees — pecan, cookies ‘n’ cream and sherbet, just to name a few. Additionally, the event provided root beer floats, snow cones and an array of fun activities including music, bouncy houses and face painting.

Co-producer of the event, Dean Strober, along with his wife Lena Strober, created the festival to fundraise for the Rio Grande Down Syndrome Network. Together, the couple partnered with a famous ice cream brand, Blue Bell Creameries, increasing awareness for the nonprofit while generating funds for the good cause.

For their part, Blue Bell Creameries not only provided the ice cream but staff, trucks, and refrigeration as well.

Albuquerque Branch Manager for Blue Bell Creameries Jay Cooke said his company was happy to provide ice cream for a great cause through fundraising for the Rio Grande Down Syndrome Network.

“We like to be involved in the community,” he said. “We love partnering up to these kinds of activities.”

Despite temperatures reaching 90 degrees Saturday before hitting the high 80s on Sunday, the heat did not stop people from enjoying their cold treats.

First-time attendee Selita Lucas said she and her children enjoyed the ice cream and snow cones even in the Albuquerque heat.

Another attendant Vodra Dorn, said she enjoyed the festival despite being a large fan of homemade vanilla ice cream.

“I Love Blue Bell ice cream,” she admitted with a smile.

With the event drawing a rough estimate of 9,000 attendees Strober said he plans on hosting the event every year, eventually expanding the festival to other major cities. Which is good news for ice cream lovers who can count on the festival returning and bringing icy treats and smiles to Duke City citizens next year.

Photo Courtesy of Brain Freeze Ice Cream Festival

2019 : A Great Year for Wine

June 6, 2019 by Nichole Harwood

By Christopher Castellanos

This Memorial Day weekend marked the 19th annual return of the Albuquerque Wine Festival. Along with a generous sun and cool winds, summer brought wine artisans from all over New Mexico and of course their one-of-a-kind award-winning wines.

People gathered to Balloon Fiesta Park, as the sun leaned back into a clear sky and whistled a tune of the soft wind that cooled off excited guests. After passing into the festival, guests were greeted by the savory smell of food trucks parked and cooking on the side of the event. Chicken, with the fire’s hot black char, and sweet smokey barbecue, danced in the air along to the music of the live bands. Wine tents quickly filled up with eager, thirsty bodies. Artisans welcomed as many people as they could, passing samples of red wine from guest to guest and quickly trading bottles of rosé for white with their fellow crafters. The high pyramid of wine boxes each stacked behind them soon came down in a rush of satisfied buyers.

As the first glass of crisp white wine turned into a fifth or sixth glass of bubbly rosé guests took a breath in one of the multiple patio areas. Where shade met smooth grass, people sat at tables to take in the event. It would have only taken a quick glance to see the cheer of everyone sharing in the joy of wine tasting, from knowledgeable regulars to people washed in the refined flavors of wine for the first time.

Approximately two dozen wineries appeared in Balloon Fiesta Park for a three-day celebration of New Mexico’s rich wine culture. Vineyards ranging as far north as Farmington, to way down south in Las Cruces, converged in Albuquerque to share and demonstrate their craft of winemaking for everyone to enjoy. The festival gifted guests with a Viva Vino! wine glass to be used to sample the many wines offered. In addition to free samples, winemakers offered special discounts on bottles and cases of their craft wines. Soft reds and tannic whites arrived at the festival in cases by the hundreds. This year, the festival estimates over 4,224 gallons of wine were passed from bottle to glass.

While the patrons of the wine fest might argue that anyone would be hard pressed to find a happier group than their colorful, sundressed selves, the event means a lot more to the winemakers. New Mexico Wine & Grape Growers Association came together to celebrate our deep history of wine in New Mexico with the people of Albuquerque. The organization was founded in 1991, but the wine arrived much sooner. The first seeds were planted in the Rio Grande Valley in 1629 by Catholic monks who had to smuggle vines out of Spain. Ever since viticulture has been one of the oldest and deepest roots in the culture of New Mexico.

Ranging in multiple locations, wine made in New Mexico stems from not only those who have an art for the beverage but those who enjoy the broad environments. The refreshing white wines are harvested in the soil, neighboring the Navajo Dam. The sweet red wines are raised in an area tucked away by the San Juan River. Despite their differences, they all prosper under the same southwest sky. The flavors brought to the festival are exclusive to New Mexico. Due to a variety of microclimate locations, the winemakers in New Mexico are allowed to grow and store the wine using techniques that are only practiced in those particular environments.

So if you missed the wine train in May don’t worry the NM Wine Festival is preparing to come to Balloon Fiesta Park Labor Day weekend from August 31 to September 2.

Aveda Presents Annual Fashion Show for Charity

May 4, 2019 by Nichole Harwood

Aveda Institute New Mexico held its annual Catwalk for Water Saturday, April 27 introducing Albuquerque to a fashionable under the sea experience while raising money for a great cause.

By Nichole Harwood

With doors opening at 6 p.m. patrons of the fashion community flooded into the National Hispanic Cultural Center ready to watch models decorated in makeup and clothing designs created by Aveda Institute New Mexico’s students’ catwalk down the runway to promote clean water awareness.

The performance was made possible through a partnership between Aveda Institute New Mexico and Charity: Water, a non-profit organization that provides clean drinking water to people in developing nations. Additionally, business partners in the community donated gift certificates and prizes to a raffle held throughout the show with proceeds from the raffle being donated. These business partners included Amore Pizzeria, Garcia’s Kitchen, Two Cranes Bistro and Brew, Remedy Coffee, and Showtime Barbershop.

Aveda Institute New Mexico Cosmetology Instructor Dillon Spranley said the charity message resonated strongly with her, as she believes it’s an eye-opening experience for many individuals to realize just how fortunate they are to have access to clean water.

“For me, I think it’s a great cause to raise money for this and not just for something locally within our country,” Spranley said. “I think it’s part of Aveda’s mission to help the world and so I think this is incorporating that.”

The show began around 7 p.m., and the crowd made their way excitedly to their seats before being introduced to the Youtube video “Water Changes Everything” which was quickly followed by a speech going over the importance of clean water.

After introducing the premise of the show, the lights were darkened in the auditorium as the first group of models took to the stage. From there audience members were immersed in a creative performance filled with diversity ranging from drag performances from Nadia Deleon, Kuwani and Liviana to the live artist Ilashone who created a masterpiece before attendees eyes.

Throughout the show, the audience was educated on not just the importance of clean water but the work of Charity: Water who provide solutions to countries that don’t have access to clean water by creating drilled wells, spring protections and BioSand filters that help generate clean water to communities around the world.

Catwalk for Water ended with a finale catwalk featuring models adorned in mermaid attire with false gills and underwater themed makeup.

Before the finale Mark “Pardo” Gonzales thanked the staff and students of Aveda Institute New Mexico, as well as the attendees for their dedication to the charity cause.

“Seeing this kind of work from these students, these young fashion artists inspires me,” said Gonzales.

Video by ABQ-Live intern Raevin Richardson

Photos by ABQ-Live photographer Gabriel Aro

Albuquerque Chef Returns to NM with Tacos

April 17, 2019 by Nichole Harwood

Local N.M. restaurant owner introduces ‘Baja meets Burque’ and ‘808 meets the 505’

By Elaina Jameson

From the Northeast Heights of Albuquerque, N.M. to operating his new restaurant on San Mateo and Copper by himself, Dominic Valenzuela has had his eyes on the entrepreneur lifestyle since he was 11-years-old.

Valenzuela began by incorporating his passion for cooking and tacos to create Dia De Los Takos. Dia De Los Takos is a small restaurant inside of Albuquerque Indoor Karting, which opened on Jan. 7.

Valenzuela said the meaning behind the “K” in “tako” runs deeper than the way the word looks. “I didn’t want to stick to one style of cuisine,” Valenzuela said. “I thought the name was a good choice for showcasing the “taco” or “tako” and showing its versatility. “Taco” is Mexican and “tako” is universal,” Valenzuela said.

Courtesy Photo via https://www.facebook.com/diadelos.takos/

With a specialty in beer battered fish tacos, Valenzuela told ABQ-Live Dia De Los Takos’ cuisine is defined as “Baja meets Burque.” Customers can expect a unique experience when they eat at Dia De Los Takos. “We use the taco as a vessel to transport people’s taste buds to other regions of the world,” Valenzuela said.

Valenzuela accommodates for all preferences and diets, including vegan. He said he enjoys adding items to the menu as his ideas flow. “I like to offer a lot of vegan options — whatever I get inspired by as the seasons come,” Valenzuela said to ABQ-Live.

The responsibilities within a restaurant are nothing new to Valenzuela. He spent the last two years teaching sushi classes, operating a food truck and working as a chef.

Valenzuela said becoming “the most recognizable name in Albuquerque” and “establishing a hangout” are included in the future plans of Dia De Los Takos.

Dia De Los Tako’s special runs only on Tuesdays. Check out the quick service restaurant with fish tacos priced at $1.50. With burritos and salads on the menu in addition to tacos and smashed griddle burgers, there’s something for every appetite at Dia De Los Takos.

Dia De Los Takos will also have a membership program. For $40, customers can purchase an embroidered hat, which comes with two free tacos. When customers wear the hat to Dia De Los Takos, they will receive 25% off their purchase, excluding alcohol.

While Dia De Los Takos has four employees that have been training for about two weeks, Valenzuela’s restaurant mindset and creativity continue to grow. Operating under the same umbrella as Dia De Los Takos is Ohana Hut. Ohana Hut is an expansion that operates out of a food truck.

Customers at Ohana Hut will find collaboration of Hawaiian and New Mexican cuisine located at Marble Brewery on the Westside. Valenzuela described Ohana Hut as “808 meets the 505” with menu items such as ramen, fusion, sushi, fresh albacore fish from Fiji and seared ahi tuna from Hawaii. In the future, guests can look forward to sushi classes held in collaboration with Marble.

Something Valenzuela has done with his business that is different from his past experience is acknowledging the importance of media and advertising. Valenzuela plans to air his podcast every Monday, featuring a new chef each week.

Courtesy Photo via https://www.facebook.com/diadelos.takos/

Working with video producers, Valenzuela, and the featured chef will make a taco. The video will then be shared and the taco will serve as a special at the chef’s workplace. Earnings made from the taco will go to a charity of the chef’s choice.

Valenzuela reminded ABQ-Live he is open to new ideas and collaborations within the business community, which may include youth mentorship such as teaching classes, internships, job shadowing and featuring chefs who have the same interests as Valenzuela to be positive lights with each other in the restaurant community.

Stay up-to-date with Dia De Los Takos on Facebook, Lets Takobout it w/ Chef Dom, featuring Facebook Live videos and external links to episodes of Valenzuela’s podcast. Dia De Los Takos is also on Instagram, where you can find mouth-watering posts of menu items and the latest information about Dia De Los Takos and Ohana Hut.

Southwest Chocolate and Coffee Fest Returns to Albuquerque

March 21, 2019 by Nichole Harwood

The 9th annual Southwest Chocolate and Coffee Fest swept through Albuquerque March 16 and 17 delivering an array of flavorful coffees, fruity wines, and delectable desserts to the Duke City.

By Nichole Harwood

With doors opening at 10 a.m. an eager crowd of chocolate and coffee enthusiasts flooded Expo New Mexico Saturday and Sunday.

With over 120 vendors vying for the attention of event participants, there were plenty of treats to go around in the form of tasty samples and fun activities.

One such vendor, Teri’s Sweet Garden, handed out samples of specially made candy to patient attendees.

Owner of the small business, Teri Leahigh said her candy shop has participated in the event for seven years and she noticed a large increase in foot traffic this year as compared to previous ones.

“We love it,” she said. “It keeps getting bigger and better and just more fun.”

Aside from delicious samples, the crowd was treated with live music from bands such as Alpha Blue and Dos Gatos. Additionally, attendees had the opportunity to watch demonstrations in chocolate and coffee making as well as watch an exciting chocolate baking challenge. Lastly, a Cow Milking Demonstration was available courtsey of the Southwest Dairy Farmers throughout the event both days.

Many vendors took the extra step to ensure their business stood out not only providing samples of their products, but combining the treats with activities such as campfires set outside to roast marshmallows for smores or free neck rubs to enjoy aromatherapy products.

There was a feeling of joy and excitement in the air as families stood hopeful in long lines prepared to enjoy the newest pastry, coffee, beer, or wine available. Many vendors eager to give the patient crowd a taste of their products ventured out beyond their booths with trays of chocolate and other delicious samples.

A first time attendant of the festival and a new resident of Albuquerque Dani White said she was pleased with the knowledgeable vendors and their staff at the event.

“This is new for me and I’m having a great time,” White said with a smile.

An ‘unrivaled fitness experience’ meets the Duke City

March 8, 2019 by Elaina Jameson

By Elaina Jameson

Following the new year, many fitness-related resolutions spark people’s motivation. SPENGA, a boutique fitness studio that calls themselves an “unrivaled fitness experience,” opened to the public on Feb. 18 — just in time to keep people focused and their resolutions on track.

Consisting of 20 minutes of spin or indoor cycling, 20 minutes of strength training and 20 minutes of yoga, SPENGA creates what they call the “best workout ever.” The gym, providing a diverse experience, invites people with tight schedules looking to improve or maintain their physical health in just 60 minutes.

Albuquerque’s SPENGA Marketing Consultant, Don Lopez, told ABQ Live SPENGA goes beyond the expectations of a traditional spin gym.

“We don’t just focus on two of the various principles that are involved with working out,” he said. “We make sure that we get all three facets which are cardio, strength training and flexibility. The way that we have accomplished that is with the three items that we do here which are spin, strength and yoga.”

Lopez said SPENGA is ideal for anyone, but especially those who want a good workout without the side effect of joint pain.

“We believe in community, not competition. We just happen to fulfill a niche that will help people who are looking to avoid high impact on joints,” Lopez said.

Additionally, locals can expects SPENGA to be invested in community involvement and building relationships.

“Not only are you part of the community and what everybody’s doing inside of the walls of the gym, but we’re going to make sure we get you guys outside so that you can experience those relationships above and beyond what you’re doing here,” Lopez said.

Mario Diaz, a SPENGA instructor, said he stays motivated to teach classes because of SPENGA’s atmosphere along with its one-of-a-kind aesthetic.

“My favorite feature of SPENGA is the multisensory experience — from the cleanliness of the studio, to the mint gum offered for every session,” Diaz said. He told ABQ Live dimming the green and white LED lights in the studio to resemble a nightclub during sessions adds for a unique experience.

“It [SPENGA] is an excellent addition to any sort of training routine you currently have, and it can certainly complete your routine,” Diaz added.

The customer service offered at SPENGA is the forefront of their business. Rafal Hussein, customer experience manager at SPENGA, said her job has allowed her to widen her network on a level she never thought existed — at least in the workplace.

“Learning their [members] names and really getting to know them — it’s become personal. It’s not just a job. I get to interact with a lot of people I never thought I would,” Hussein said.

She said price has been a significant factor when potential customers consider a membership. But with SPENGA operating as a one-stop shop for cardio, strength training and flexibility and mobility exercises, the membership prices are a bargain.

“It [SPENGA] is the cheapest form to workout with an instructor. It’s a you versus you concept. It’s not a competition. It’s about you and how you’re willing to utilize the workout and push yourself,” Hussein added.

People who are interested in joining SPENGA are eligible for a free three day pass. After the pass expires, the member has the opportunity to register for a membership of four or eight classes a month or an unlimited membership.

SPENGA will hold sessions on March 26 available to the public by donation to raise money for Athletes Against Epilepsy.