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Order a T-shirt and Support Your Local ABQ Restaurant Workers

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ABQ-Live the Magazine since the very beginning has had a close-knit connection with the bar and restaurant industry. COVID-19 has affected everyone’s lives, but service industry employees—who we all normally interact with often—might be stuck in an even bigger limbo than most.

In a partnership with the Serving New Mexico Fund, ABQ-Live has released the “I Love You, Tacos” shirt for sale in a limited capacity.

The Serving New Mexico Fund offers financial assistance to the restaurant and other hospitality workers facing unanticipated hardship. The fund is part of the Hospitality Industry Education Foundation, a 501 (c) 3 Charitable Organization. You can find out more about the foundation on their website at https://www.nmrestaurants.org/serving-nm-fund/

Ready to Order a Shirt ? Find the order form HERE

A portion of the proceeds made from the “I Love You, Tacos” shirts will be donated to the Serving New Mexico Fund. 

Dawn Schary: A Comedian who can Live Funny and Prosper

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By Thersa Montoya

Since Dawn Schary was young she has always loved to perform. At first, she originally wanted to be an actress but soon realized she didn’t want to pretend to be someone else. It wasn’t long after that she finally found her true calling in comedy.

Initially, as a young child, Schary felt limited in her ability to express herself growing up within a religious household. The atmosphere Schary said often felt restrictive, leading her to feel as if there were a lot of expectations for her to be respectable and well-mannered on a constant basis. There was no room to argue Schary said, so she bottled up her humor.

Eventually, Schary found inspiration to open up through the viewing of popular sitcoms that she would watch as a child. A special form of entertainment that her family would indulge in alongside her. The shows that inspired her included “I love Lucy,” “Roseanne,” and “The Cosby Show.”

“From there I always followed comedy,” Schary said. “I liked it growing up. Comic relief was a big thing in the 80’s and early 90’s.”

Watching the animated actors on-screen helped her learn to open up and now as an adult, Schary said her role as a comedian provides her a safe space to say whatever she wants on stage.

Schary’s comedic career has grown since she was inspired by funny actors on the television. Now as a seasoned comedian she has performed in several countries as well as within the United States. Schary has performed in Australia, New York, San Francisco, Los Angeles, and even small towns such as Fort Collins. Despite all the different places she has traveled Schary still continues to perform locally in Albuquerque, New Mexico as well as performing recently at both The Kilt Check Brewing Company and The Aux Dog Theater Nob Hill.

Able to express herself more openly now, Schary said her family and friends are very supportive of her career. Despite this support, however, Schary admitted with a smile that she sometimes gets uncomfortable performing her more explicit material in front of them.

Regardless of these obstacles, Schary said she loves the authenticity of comedy.

According to Schary, comedy provides an outlet for honesty, creating a place where people can go for the truth. Comedy allows comedians to throw caution to the wind by not caring about what others shouldn’t say. This provides a platform for comedians to deliver both easy and harsh truths.

Because of this, Schary said she wants her messages to extend past her comedic routine causing a bigger impact on people in the long run.

To create these powerful messages, Schary works hard on getting great material for every show. In order to get her material, Schary is looking for stories that she knows she would not normally be able to talk about in a regular conversation.

Instead, she saves these conversation pieces for the stage. For Schary comedy is more than just a way to express herself it is also a way to open doors to honesty and other’s point of view.

“Comedy confronts, it asks questions, it gives other perspectives,” Schary said.

For more information on her upcoming shows follow her on Instagram @goofysunshine and Facebook or find her online at livefunnyandprosper.com

Little Lions Learn brings an immersive online experience to NM’s Youth

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By Ludella Awad

Little Lions Learn, a fully immersive online Spanish class, has opened a new window to the world of learning a new language—anywhere, anytime—from the convenience of your own home.

The class is for children ages 5 to 16 and allows students to get the feel of learning a new language with the interaction of live teachers instructing Spanish from all over the world. This includes students learning how to read, write and speak. 

Khara Sandoval, CEO of Little Lions Learn, along with her partner Silvia Blackledge, officially launched the learning program on August 1, 2019, just before the school year began. 


Sandoval said she wanted to become a teacher to support others and has been doing it for more than 10 years.

“I have always been passionate about language acquisition and have always seen value in learning a second language,” she said. 

With her passion leading the way Sandoval and her partner began working on launching the online program a goal that took the pair 5 months. 

Sandoval said when she was looking for learning apps she noticed conversation skills were lacking, as she was looking for ways her kids can learn a second language. 

Little Lions Learn has ten different teachers scattered around the country, including one teacher who is teaching Spanish in Spain since the start of school. 

Bernabé Francisco Rodriguez has been teaching Spanish for over 20 years, where he shares his passion for getting to know people from all over the world.

“Little Lions Learn is a brilliant idea – with a well-defined objective,” he said. 

Little Lions Learn hopes to create a fun and engaging learning environment for Spanish skills and see students becoming assertive in the way you communicate a second language. The fully immersive program allows instructors to speak in a directed way to bring the success of learning that language. 

Rodriguez also said, “Professional social networks bet on Spanish as a professional asset because bilingualism is a great advantage for the economy and even for our social environment.”  

The online program also offers free study tools connected to the curriculum that allows students to achieve an engaging learning environment. This includes flashcards and media file books created digitally. Little Lions Learn also hopes to open doors for an English side by sharing it with the rest of the world. 

Photos Courtesy of Khara Sandoval

ABQ Wedding Essentials

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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.

A Blunt List of Albuquerque’s Top Cannabis Shops

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Smell that? That’s right, allergy season has arrived — but wait, what’s that strong undertone? It’s here, the most notorious and long-awaited day of the year, 4/20. You didn’t think we’d leave you high and dry, did you? To ensure our readers of the best April 20th, we leave you a blunt list of Albuquerque’s top dispensaries. Not on board the marijuana train? Then we will THC-you later!

By Ana Gutierrez

Bloom

Image by The Bloom Brand via https://www.facebook.com/thebloombrand1/

Are you a firm believer that 4/20 isn’t just on April 20th? Do you casually toke at 4:20 p.m. on the dot? Bloom is just the brand for you. Their mission is to promote the inherent benefits of cannabis essential to a highly-functional and aspirational lifestyle of enterprising minds. With thesehigh expectations in innovation, they are sure to bring an exquisite taste and highest grade of oil concentrate to the table, ensuring all daily tokers a “refined experience.” It’s the future of vaping! With  10 unique strains and 10 fruitful flavors, the revolutionized cartridge will promise you a crisper taste than that bowl of chips you’ll be having afterward. They are here to stay and continue to find new ways to alter the future of vaping, giving 4/20 a whole new meaning.

Find your nearest Bloom Brand on their website: https://thebloombrand.com/

High Desert Relief Dispensary

Image By High Desert Relief via https://highdesertrelief.org/

“From seed to sale” is how High Desert Relief says they’re committed to ensuring only the best quality medical cannabis for their New Mexican patients. They offer a wide range — from their tasty chocolate edibles to their banana cream indica flowers and hybrid squashed juice. With the utmost professional standards, the homegrown medical cannabis receives no pesticides, produces a low carbon footprint, and is hydroponically grown with love. Not only can you get some quality re-leaf, but so can the environment. That’s what I call a green thumb!

High Desert Relief Dispensary: 4840 Pan American Fwy NE H, Albuquerque, NM, 87109

Bud Stones Smoke Shop

Image by Bud Stones Smoke Shop via Facebook

Are you ready to take your National Cannabis Day experience up to level 420? Bud Stones Smoke Shop is the place for you! Take your best bud and experience what it’s like to be in Snoop Dogg’s mind — bongs on top of bongs, pipes to make a plumber question his profession and incense to maintain your activities a little more discrete. Not to mention the sincere and incredible customer service you won’t find anywhere else, but also you’d have to be high not to come here and that’s only because you can’t (and shouldn’t) drive while under the influence.

Bud Stones Smoke Shop: 405 Montaño RD NE #5, Albuquerque, NM 87107

Sacred Garden

Image by Sacred Garden via https://sacred.garden/blog/

What better place to buy some green than at Green Jeans? Continuing the legacy of founder Zeke Shortes, Sacred Garden hopes to bring natural relief and healing to the state of New Mexico. Providing a wide range of quality medical cannabis in all forms, Sacred Garden has your needs: salves for muscle pains, delectable in-house edibles and beverages, tinctures, bath bombs, and any accessories needed.

Sacred Garden – Green Jeans Farmery: 3600 Cutler Ave NE #12, Albuquerque, NM, 87110

Minerva Canna

Image by Minerva Canna via https://www.facebook.com/Minerva-Canna-370350603401289/

You’ve heard about “wake and bake,” but instead of feeling like an apple pie, why not eat a baked apple pie? Get a little fancy and treat yourself to cheesecake, or a few assorted chocolate truffles. Minerva Canna and their head baker, Bethany Orbison, are right in priding themselves in serving up only the best of the best when it comes to edibles in Albuquerque. Not only do the staff at Minerva Canna serve up sweetness in their treats, but in their genuine hospitality to all their patients.


Minerva Canna | Medical Dispensary:  7103 4th St. NW Bldg. M, Albuquerque, NM, 87107


Musician Richard Mittelstet releases the song “Albuquerque!”

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By Nichole Harwood

Musician Richard Mittelstet released the song “Albuquerque!” on Feb. 23 along with an accompanying music video highlighting what he loved about the Duke City.

His description praised Albuquerque describing it as not only the birthplace of his daughter and home for four years but as a quiet diverse city with much unity and love.

With as much passion and love that has been injected into the lyrics, a casual listener of the song may, however, may find it surprising that Mittelstet had not always felt so strong about Albuquerque.

Mittelstet’s journey to discovering Albuquerque and his love for the city began when his wife was accepted into the University of New Mexico. After receiving the acceptance letter the two quickly packed their bags for the Duke City.

Mittelstet didn’t know what to expect of his new home for the next four years. Everything he ever remembered hearing about Albuquerque was blanketed in negativity and he was uncertain what the future held in store for him.

It didn’t take long, however, for that uncertainty to transform into wonder. Rather than battling with a bleak and dangerous environment Mittelstet instead found himself immersed in a city filled with culture, diversity and a thriving music scene.

“There was so much art and artistic people out there going to different open mics and just getting out and sharing their gifts while being able to just express themselves,” Mittelstet said.  

As a musician, Mittelstet found himself inspired by the culture of Albuquerque quickly finding venues to play in and even establishing a regularly scheduled performance at Java Joe’s.

Outside of his growth as an artist, Mittelstet found renewed interest in hobbies he had long left behind including biking and hiking. With his home located near Old Town, Mittelstet and his wife would often walk among the local shops together taking in the art and the culture of the city.

“There is so much talent in Albuquerque and New Mexico in general,” he said. “So many gifted artists and it was great to be immersed in that.”

As his time in Albuquerque neared its end Mittelstet was struck with inspiration on October of 2016 and staring at the city that was his home for many years Mittelstet wrote a song to encapsulate what he loved about it.

“Sometimes the songs just fall out of the sky and that one definitely did,” he said. “Albuquerque is the only city I have written a song for.”

With footage being shot in May of 2017 for an accompanying video the song titled “Albuquerque!” was released. A musician’s goodbye to a city that had helped him grow in his musical career and as an individual.

Now residing in his new home in Richfield, Minnesota Mittelstet said he still treasures many of his memories from his time in Albuquerque. One that stood out among the rest involved events put together by friend and fellow musician Seth Hoffman who has also released his own song serenading the Duke City titled “Albuquerque Nights.”

Hoffman, Mittelstet said would host an open mic for musicians regularly attracting a mix of professional and amateur musicians. The venue would encourage new musicians to play and the crowd would be receptive to a variety of musical styles performed, he said.

“I would just love that because he would just invite everybody and anybody,” Mittelstet said. “He would make an environment of just peace and love.”

While Mittelstet no longer reside in Albuquerque his time in the Duke City is one that he will never forget as he continues to move forward as a musician.

“When I go out and play in front of people I feel fulfilled. It’s what I am supposed to be doing. So that’s what I’m hoping for in the future,” Mittelstet  said. “The opportunity to play music for as many people as I possibly can.”

Five Local Shops for Quick Holiday Gifts

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The holiday season is here and if you’re like most people, you probably do your gift shopping last minute. Maybe you’re on a budget. Sometimes, you might not even have the slightest idea what to get for someone. Your choices start to become quite limited at any major retailer, but that’s where local shops begin to shine. These small business offer original and creative products you often won’t find anywhere else.

Need some recommendations where to look? We’ve compiled a quick list of some great places both online and here in Albuquerque for you to check out!

 

Creative Culture

Image by @creativecultureabq via Instagram

Know someone with a creative side? Creative Culture has you covered. The arts and crafts store boasts a unique selection of handmade and hard-to-get papers from around the world, alongside hundreds of different cards, supplies, workshops, and more. The store opened up just this past summer and has been a new hotspot for artists and crafters alike looking for something new. If you find yourself in the Nob Hill area, be sure to drop in and grab some exotic papers and maybe that holiday card while you’re there too!

Creative Culture ABQ  3001 Monte Vista Blvd NE

 

Stranger Factory

Image by @strangerfactory via Instagram

Don’t be a stranger… at least while you check out Stranger Factory. This art gallery showcases different pop surrealist to “lowbrow” artists’ original work and editioned releases. Here, you’ll find the latest gifts and novelties from the newest branch of the Circus Posterus collective, with art inspired by carnival fashion and folklore from around the world. Stop by and browse some one-of-a-kind curious gifts and apparel that will surely have you coming back for more.

Stranger Factory  3411 Central Ave NE

 

Metal the Brand

Image by @metal_the_brand via Instagram

If you’re all about being local, check out Metal the Brand; artwork and merchandise based around the New Mexico and “Burqueño” lifestyle, but with its own creative flair. From stickers to shirts, this online store and occasional vendor has original and clever gifts to choose from, whether it’s a new bumper sticker for a friend or an enamel pin for your own collection. Check out their website and Facebook page to see the full lineup of available products to truly support local.

Metal the Brand

 

FS2 Supply Co.

Image by @fs2supplyco via Instagram

Still looking for local? If you want to wear New Mexico with pride, you’ll find what you need at Fs2 Supply. Their love for New Mexico culture and history has driven them to create a brand that reflects that core idea. This online only shop is dedicated to sharing the 505 with everyone, carrying collections sporting the Zia Symbol to the state shape. Be proud to be a New Mexican with their wide variety of shirts, hats, and even water bottles and share that pride with others this holiday season.

Fs2 Supply Co.

 

Root and Feather

Image by @rootandfeathernm via Instagram

If you’re still doing all of your gift shopping online, open a new tab and search for Root and Feather on Etsy. This talented mother and daughter team creates stunning handmade jewelry that truly does show its local roots. On their site you will come across earrings, bracelets, necklaces, and rings all while keeping that New Mexico feel. Each item is made from either brass, copper, or aluminum and incorporates quartz crystals and colored stones into their designs. Supporting small businesses feels great and getting to share a handmade gift with another feels even greater.

Root and Feather

ABQ’s newest immersive dining experience is out of this world

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An Albuquerque company has officially launched its interactive dining experience in the heart of downtown. Located next to Duel Brewery, 610 Central Ave. is the new home to StoryLab Interactive’s latest project – a dining experience that was truly out of this world.

Upon entering, guests are welcomed and immediately can pick up on the theme, which is currently called “Space Returns”. The dining experience starts off by encouraging guests to explore the open space and interactive art while making sure to get that prime photo for your Instagram (FYI- it will be your coolest Insta photo.)

The five course meal was not only delicious and thoughtfully presented but even the menu contained plenty of clever “space” puns and wordplay for each item (a “Rocket Salad” arugula dish and a “Starfruit Halo Halo” dessert, just to name a few).  The dinner was presented and served by Savor and with each course, a perfectly paired wine was served as well.

Service was impeccable as each dish was explained before we “dug in”.

Space-guided voices and different galactic scenarios continued as the remaining courses were served. At one point, guests were even presented with a squash bisque in what looked very similar to a “space bag” before using it as an exquisite sauce for the salmon and short ribs course.

The immersive dining experience provided a spotlight for where your plate sat and the lights responded to your moving hands – which made it impossible to NOT interact and appreciate what was happening with those around you.

The homegrown startup company will continue these dinners every Friday and Saturday night at 610 Central Ave. and tickets are required so be sure to grab tickets in advance.

Overall, the entire experience was unlike anything that this city has offered before. Sure, there have been interactive art exhibits but StoryLab Interactive has taken that to the next level by appealing to all senses with this unique dining experience.

 

For more information visit www.storylabinteractive.com or follow them/like them on social media @storylab.inc

 

Written by Brenda Paiz

Photography by Kori Kobayashi

 

 

Contact us: info@abq-live.com

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