E X PLORING SANTA FE , TAOS AND NOR THERN NEW MEXICO2 0 0 8

DISCOVERGEOLOGIC WONDERS

DISCOVERGEOLOGIC WONDERS

SOMERS: The art of sculpting

SANTA FE BUSINESS: Restaurateurs’

Perspectives

A hot mineral water spa celebrates 140 years

SOMERS: The art of sculpting

SANTA FE BUSINESS: Restaurateurs’

Perspectives

A hot mineral water spa celebrates 140 years

www.primajewelry.com

www.seretandsons.com

2008 ENCANTADAE2

4Santa FeWelcome to thepublication thatembraces Santa Fe,Taos and NorthernNew Mexico.

9BernadetteVadurroAn energetic tenth generationSanta Fean is one of the nation’s topHispanicEntrepreneurs.

11Somers RandolphWhether it isSomers jewelry orhis massive, yetintricate, marblesculpture, it is con-ceived and shapedby a sensitive anddedicated MasterSculptor.

19Kasha-KatuweTent RocksNationalMonumentHiking trailsthrough uniquegeologic forma-tions produce aneerie escape toa world of vistasand fantasies.

20The Business Sideof Santa Fe’s WorldClass CuisineKey Santa FeRestaurateurs sharetheir business per-spectives of SantaFe and its uniquedining experience.24

ChimayoA remote Spanishvillage continuesto build upon arich heritage ofreligion andweaving andoffers a popularrestaurant experi-ence in a historicsetting.

26Ojo CalienteOne of the nation’soldest health spasgave its uniquehot mineral springfacilities andaccommodations a face lift.

28TaosA haven for thearts and outdooractivities, Taosand theEnchanted Circleoffer an incrediblyscenic and culturalexperience.

4 11 16 20

CONTENTS

Encantada is published annually by Zia Publishing Corp. 116 McKinney Road, P.O. Box 1248, Silver City, NM 88062, 575-388-4444, info@ziapublishing.com, www.ziapublishing.com. President & ManagingDirector, Terri Menges. Vice President, Joseph Burgess. Staff Accountant, Arlyn Cooley. Designers, Debra Suttonand Terri Menges. Production Assistant, Melanie Zipin. Contributing Writers, Joseph Burgess and Brett Ferneau.Photography, Joseph Burgess, except where noted. Advertising Sales, Lynn Janes and LeAnne Knudsen.Encantada is a supplement to New Mexico Traveler and is manufactured and printed in the United States of America. ©Zia Publishing Corp. All rights reserved. Reproduction in whole or partwithout permission of the publisher is prohibited. All submissions of editorial or photography are only accepted without risk to the publisher for loss or damage. Every effort was made to ensureaccuracy in the information provided. The publisher assumes no responsibility or liability for errors, changes or omissions.

16Pathfinders in the Arts Santa Fe art dealerJoseph Sisneros, aChimayo native ofSpanish descent,focuses on therecognition ofNative Americanwork as world-class art.

ENCANTADASANTA FE, TAOS & NORTHERN NM

OUR COVERThe fascinating spires ofKasha-Katuwe Tent RocksNational Monument arelocated near Pueblo deCochiti, just a short distancefrom Santa Fe. Also knownas hoodoos, they are exam-ples of a type of geologicalformation found only a fewplaces in the world. Theywere photographed forEncantada by Wendy Young.

www.ventanafineart.com

this page: VicPayne’s “Thunderat Little Bighorn”sculpture enticesSanta Fe visitorsto explore thearts. opposite:Estella Loretto’s“The MagicalEncounter”contributes tothe serenesurroundings ofher studio.

LOCATIONSanta Fe is located at the junction I-25and US84/285, the historic termination ofEl Camino Real and the Santa Fe Trail.

TOURFrom Santa Fe, travel 16 miles north onUS84/285 and turn northeast 11 mileson NM503 and NM520 to Chimayo.

MORE INFORMATIONSanta Fe Chamber of Commerce505.988.3279www.santafechamber.com

EVENTSMay 24-25 Native Treasures Indian

Arts Festival. 505-476-1250Jun 7-8 Spring Festival and

Animal Fair. 505-471-2261 Jun 18-21 Rodeo de Santa Fe

505-471-4300Jun 27 Santa Fe Opera Season

opens through Aug 23. 800-280-4654

Jul 5-6 Wine Festival at El Ran-cho de las Golondrinas 505-471-2261

Jul 12-13 Santa Fe International Folk Art Market at Milner Plaza. 505-476-1200

Jul 20 Santa Fe Chamber Music Festival begins through Aug 25. 888-221-9836. www.sfcmf.org

Jul 26-27 Spanish Market on the Plaza. 505-982-2226

Aug6-7 Summer Festival and Frontier Days at El Rancho de las Golondrinas 505-471-2261

Aug 23-24 Indian Market on the Plaza. 505-983-5220.

Aug 30-Sept 7 Santa Fe Fiesta. 505-988-7575

Sep 24-28 Santa Fe Wine&Chile Fiesta. 505-438-8060

Oct 4-5 Harvest Festival at El Rancho de las Golo-ndrinas. 505-471-2261

Nov 27 Ski Santa Fe Opens505-982-4429

Dec 3-7 Santa Fe Film Festival505-988-5225

E4 2008 ENCANTADA

E5SANTA FE

A destination City that wields significant international clout, Santa Fe sits picture-perfect onthe gentle slopes below the Sangre de Cristo Mountains. The longest continuously servingcapital in the United States has preserved and expanded its Spanish/Pueblo architecture, itis a world-renowned leader in the arts, has an impressive array of distinguished museums andsupports a strong multicultural cluster of markets, festivals and pageants. Santa Fe is the firstcity in the United States recognized by the UNESCO Creative Cities Global Network as a cen-ter for art and culture.

Established as a regional capital in 1610 by Spain’s third governor of New Mexico, the cityhas preserved some of the nation's oldest buildings, including the Palace of the Governors,which is the oldest public building in the country, and San Miguel Mission, rebuilt in 1710over the ruins of its predecessor church constructed in the early 1600s. Preparations havealready begun for an incredible 400th year celebration that officially kicks off in 2010.

Narrow, old-world streets wind romantically through hundreds of galleries, shops, muse-ums, theaters and restaurants accessible by foot from the town plaza. Despite a populationof only 70,000, the staggering concentration of the artistic and cultural venues compare withcities many times its size. Its renowned opera venue and newest museum cluster on“Museum Hill” are only ten minutes driving time from the Plaza.

SANTA FE

Dec 6-7 Winter Spanish Market505-982-2226

Dec 12 Christmas at the Palace505-476-5100

Dec 24 Farolitos on the Plaza. 800-777-2489

ATTRACTIONSCanyon Road. East of Paseo de Peralta.Originally a Native American trail into themountains; now lined with unique shops,art galleries, artists' studios, restaurantsand local hangouts. 800-777-2489 or 505-955-6200.

EI Rancho de las Golondrinas. South ofSanta Fe off I-25. This historical Spanishcolonial village, now a living history muse-um, was a stopping point on EI CaminoReal. Call for annual event schedule andtours, 505-471-2261.Hyde Memorial State Park. Eight milesnortheast of Santa Fe. Camping, hiking andpicnicking. 505-983-7175. www.nmparks.comLoretto Chapel. 207 Old Santa Fe Trail.Houses the miraculous staircase built by amysterious carpenter believed to havebeen St. Joseph by the Loretto nuns. 505-982-0092. www.lorettochapel.com

Museum Hill. On Camino Lejo off OldSanta Fe Trail. Home of the Laboratory ofAnthropology, Museum of Indian Arts & Culture, Museum of InternationalFolk Art, Museum of Spanish Colonial Art,and the Wheelwright Museum of theAmerican Indian. www.museumhill.org

Museum of Fine Arts. 107 W. Palace Ave.Southwest, historical and contemporaryart. 505-476-5072. www.mfasantafe.org

Palace of the Governors. 105 W. PalaceAve. 17th century building on the oldSanta Fe Plaza housing historical exhibits.

The oldest continuously used publicbuilding in the US. 505-476-5100.www.palaceofthegovernors.org

San Miguel Mission Church.401 Old Santa Fe Trail. Dates back to first Spanish colonization. Rebuilt following Pueblo Revolt of 1680. 505-983-3974 or 988-9504.Santuario de Guadalupe.100 S. Guadalupe. Mission museumexhibiting Spanish colonial art.18th century shrine to Our Lady ofGuadalupe. 505-988-2027

E7SANTA FE

A city of markets and festivals, thousands of visitors travel to Santa Fefor Indian Market and Spanish Market.The colorful Santa Fe Fiesta has beencelebrated annually since 1692. Othermajor events include the Santa Fe Wineand Chile Fiesta and the new Santa FeInternational Folk Art Market.

This cultural Mecca is located at theculmination of El Camino Real, theSpanish supply line from Mexico Cityand the Santa Fe National Historic Trailthat brought settlers from Kansas City.Santa Fe also serves as a hub for theSanta Fe Ski Basin, hiking and fishing inthe Pecos Wilderness, rafting the RioGrande, gaming at Indian Casinos andbrowsing local pueblo markets.

Flights from several major cities havenow been established for Santa Fe andthe commuter train from Albuquerquewill soon reach the capital. The 50-acreRailyard project is completing its firstphases as a remarkable new center forculture and recreation, while preservingthe essence of both the historic and cur-rent railroad operations. The new con-vention center is scheduled for comple-tion in 2008 as is the new wing of thePalace of the Governors Museum.

top: A bronze sculpture of St. Francis welcomesvisitors to the Cathedral Basilica of St. Francis ofAssisi near the plaza in Santa Fe.

www.jackalope.com

E9

BERNADETTEVADURRO

ONE OF AMERICA’S TOP 10HISPANIC ENTREPRENEURS

BY JOSEPH BURGESS

Santa Fe is a com-munity that bubblesover with extremetalent. One of thosegifted people isBernadette Trujillo-Vadurro, a nativeSanta Fean who maywell be the mostenthusiastic individ-

ual you will ever meet.Bernadette is a tenth generation New

Mexican who was married and began work-ing full time right out of high school. Shestarted her family and college classes simul-taneously, managing to graduate MagnaCum Laude from College of Santa Fe.Bernadette launched her own consultingfirm, evolved into a highly sought motiva-tional speaker (in 49 states) and has nowwritten the award-winning book, America’sConscience: Facing Threats to Democracy,the Middle Class and Our World.

Bernadette earned Latina Style Maga-zine’s 2007 Anna Maria Arias Business FundAward as one of the nation’s top ten HispanicEntrepreneurs. www.speakerslive.com

inset: Five generations of Bernadette’s family include,in the top row, daughter Christy Brown and motherEva Parker. In the bottom row are Bernadette withgranddaughter Summer Brown and grandmother LucyOrtiz at 101 years old.

www.blackmesagolf.com

E11

SOMERSRANDOLPH

WHEN CREATIVITY COMBINESWITH TECHNICAL ABILITIES

THE RESULT IS A SUPERB MASTERY OF MATERIAL

“My gift is one of form,” states

Santa Fe sculptor Somers Randolph,

“whether it’s a delicate soapstone

carving in the palm of your hand or a

five-foot marble sculpture that anchors

the far end of your rose garden.”

"Alabama Marble, 64".

WRITTEN BY JOSEPH BURGESS

2008 ENCANTADAE12

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opposite page and top, right: SomersRandolph whittles Montana soapstone,creating tiny intricate sculpture as modelsfor his exquisite line of gold and silverjewelry. above, left: Somers Randolph,Master Stone Sculptor. above, middle andbottom: An 80-lb fine art sculpture mayhave begun the lengthy and unforgivingprocess as an 800-lb block of marble.

Somers’ friends joke that the Princeton graduate, a student of art history and

philosophy, has pounded rock for 30 years and never held a real job. “I’ll stand by

that statement,” he quips, “I’m proud of my work, and it may well be more diffi-

cult to graduate from Princeton and succeed as an artist than it is to become a

CEO.” Both the dedicated collector who has researched his story and the casual

acquaintance can immediately recognize the absolute passion he pours into every

piece he produces, large or small. When creativity combines with technical abili-

ties the result is a superb mastery of material. A burly six-foot-seven stone carver

who might very well have posed for the Hildebrandt illustration of a sword-wield-

ing J.R.R. Tolkien character has instead molded his own life-long adventure. With

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2008 ENCANTADAE14

gigantic hands, he carves tiny intricate soapstone

shapes and graceful tall stone sculptures weighing

hundreds of pounds. His magnificent stature

seems essential for grappling a massive block of

marble destined to become a focal point of some

corporate rotunda.

Somers studied sculpture at Corcoran School of

Art in Washington D.C. and in 1975 apprenticed

in Pietrasanta, Italy. “I worked side-by-side with

experienced marble carvers and the knowledge

gained was invaluable. A stone carver develops a

relationship between his material and his tools

over years of trial and error. It’s easy to teach

someone how to safely use a tool, but not when

to stop using that tool. Stone is unforgiving and

the knowledge that transforms it into a collectable

work of art is acquired, quite frankly, from going

too far. I've broken many, many pieces. My ability

to create curves and loops from a chunk of

alabaster or fine translucent edges on a blade of

marble has evolved over three decades of fine-

tuning the techniques of carving, sanding and

polishing rock.”

Twenty-five years is the industry standard for

earning the title of master craftsman. Sculpture

from the hands of the world’s master craftsmen is

perceived by collectors and investors to be the art

that will continue to grow in value. That has cer-

tainly been the case for Somers Randolph, whose

years of sculpting have forged a steady rise in

value for those investing in his work. While many

artists make molds and bronze editions of their

stone sculpture, Randolph holds true to the

unique spirit of carving. He finishes one piece and

then begins sculpting the next from a block of

stone, no copies, no editions.

Slabs and pillars of domestic materials, often

handpicked by Somers from quarries in California,

Wyoming and Utah, and those originating from

locations worldwide stand like Roman sentinels

surrounding Somers’ Santa Fe workspace. Italian

marble shipped from the Carrara quarries used by

Michelangelo, Portoro black and gold marble also

from Italy, Persian Travertine, Turkish red and

Mojave green marbles, and stone from Belgium

this page, clockwise from top,left: Portoro Marble on Travertine,58"; Black Belgian Marble onPersian Travertine, 52"; ItalianAlabaster on Antique Verde, 24";Black Belgian Marble on VaticanMarble, 60". opposite, clockwise, from topright: North Carolina Imperial BlueMarble on Black Belgian Marble,70"; Turkish Rosa Laguna Marble,32"; Green Mojave Marble on NewMexico Travertine, 36"; ItalianAlabaster on Black Belgian marble,18"; Italian Alabaster on PersianTravertine, 24". Photos includingAlabama Marble photo on page 11by Wendy McEahwern.

E15

SOMERS JEWELRYSOMERS JEWELRYA Somers? Of course it’s a Somers. That fascinating and delicate gold pendant

draped lightly from your neck is actually a SomersRandolph sculpture, designed and meticulouslyshaped by a master carver. A three-foot, hundred-pound Somers Randolph carving may already anchoryour art collection and a graceful thousand poundone-of-a-kind Somers Randolph sculpture could bethe centerpiece of your courtyard. Sculpture and jew-elry originating from the same genius is a conversa-tion catalyst for soirees from Minneapolis to Dubai. Infact, the brand was suggested by customers greetingeach other just that way, “Is that a Somers?” It was

Somers’ wife Hillary who turned the sculptor’s pas-time of whittling into gold. When she discoveredhundreds of intriguing soapstone shapes piled hap-hazardly in a trunk, she convinced Somers that a lineof gold and silver jewelry held a place in his future.

Now the important lady in anyone’s life can jointhe list of discriminating women who appreciate ele-gant creativity and the rare alchemy of sculptedstone turned into gold and silver. Just seven yearslater, Somers jewelry is available internationally underthe Somers name, honoring the sculptor whobreathes new life into stone. Contact Somers Jewelryat www.somersjewelry.com.

and India generate an international kaleidoscope of nature’s

designs. The heartbeat of the master craftsman pounds and

creative juices flow as colors, swirls and grain are considered and

then painstakingly and deliberately cut, chiseled and polished

into the timeless piece of art that could only have resulted from

that particular piece of stone.

Cradled by Santa Fe’s Sangre de Cristo Mountains, the airy

and eclectic studio where these exquisite works are made is in

itself a tribute to the sculptor. Somers is at home in the shop that

he built with beams from an old warehouse in Nashville. Even his

workbench is made of heavy hand-hewn poplar logs pulled from

an 1800s brick building, beams that were recycled from a

settler's earlier structure.

New Mexico is a logical choice for this time in Randolph's life.

"Driving across the country has been one of my greatest pleas-

ures since my first college road trip. Even after I gave up on the

interstates, I would always pause in Santa Fe, visit the old flea

market or stay for the weekend. Something wonderful always

happened here. Santa Fe is a spiritual experience that still makes

my hair tingle. What hair I have left, that is.”

Contact Somers Randolph at www. somersrandolph.com.

SCULPTURE FROM THE WORLD’S

MASTER CRAFTSMEN IS PERCEIVED

BY COLLECTORS AND INVESTORS TO

BE THE PIECES THAT WILL CONTINUE

TO GROW IN VALUE.

2008 ENCANTADAE16

“I may spend hours with a customer or group,” says SantaFe art dealer Joseph Sisneros, “readily sharing my knowl-edge of Native American work.” Owner of The Rancho deChimayo Collection in Santa Fe’s Sena Plaza, Sisneros andhis staff create an experience that may turn a first-time buyerinto a collector. Joseph’s mentor, Don Ortiz, and his God-father, Arturo Jaramillo, taught him that a sale is an educa-tional process, customers must be treated like family andyou have to be able to speak with passion about a piece inthe language of the buyer. “It is, after all, collectors whokeep the arts and culture alive,” states Sisneros.

“I deal only with the work of top Native American artisanswhose art pieces can compete in an international market. Mycustomers purchase pottery or jewelry that falls within theirbudget with the option to trade upward at any time…it’s alifetime trade.”

PATHFINDERS IN THE ARTS

THERANCHO DE CHIMAYO COLLECTIONBY JOSEPH BURGESS

E17

“Native American pottery is very diffi-cult to produce,” Joseph points out.“The indigenous clays have to be highquality and they are fired outside, mak-ing them susceptible to the elements.The intricate artwork may take weeks ormonths to complete and the sandingand polishing require an experiencedtouch. Even the fuel used for the fireaffects the outcome of the pot.”

“I am very concerned that there arefewer Native American families continu-ing to produce the traditional art forms.San Ildefonso Pueblo, for example, isfamous for its fine black on black pottery.Potter Carmelita Dunlop taught herdaughter Linda, who in turn is passingher skills to daughter Shauna, but prob-

above: A collection of Native American pottery byfamed San Ildefonso Pueblo potter CarmelitaDunlop and family members Linda, Shanna andCarlos can be found at The Rancho de ChimayoCollection in Santa Fe.

2008 ENCANTADAE18

ably only 18 full-time potters remain inthe pueblo.”

Tracing his own lineage to Spaniardsarriving in Mexico with FranciscoCoronado, Joseph’s paternal ancestrysettled in Chimayo in the 1600s. Hismother’s family settled on San IldefonsoPueblo in the 1700s, thus establishinghis ties to both cultures. The 1890 fami-ly home that became Rancho deChimayo restaurant serves as a secondoutlet for his Native American arts.

Joseph’s parents traveled toEuropean art capitals and his motherEsmelda raised him around music andboth portrait and architectural art. Afterattending College of Santa Fe, he stud-ied two years at the Angelicum, theDominican headquarters in Rome.

Joseph’s personal objective is to “livethe beauty of Native American people”and to represent them as deserving arti-sans. “For too long, Native Americanwork was treated as a commodity ratherthan a piece of exquisite art.”

Furnishing an 1860s family home indowntown Santa Fe, Joseph will pro-vide a period venue for art openingsand accommodations for patrons andguests of the galleries.

top: The Rancho de Chimayo Collection in SantaFe’s Sena Plaza is an outlet for collectable NativeAmerican pottery, jewelry and art.

E19TENT ROCKS NATIONAL MONUMENT

KASHA-KATUWE TENT ROCKS NATIONAL MONUMENT

This easy, fun and fascinating day trip takes hikers through a series of tentrocks, examples of a distinct type of volcanic rock formation found in only afew places around the world.

Also known as hoodoos, the conical spires had their beginnings in a hugevolcanic eruption millions of years ago. Thick layers of volcanic ash fusedtogether to form a rock substance that geologists call tuff. Lava flows andother events deposited a layer of harder rock on top of that. As the forces orerosion went to work through the eons, the harder rock above protected thesofter rock below, resulting in the teepee-like formations we see today. Someof the spires retain their protective ‘cap rocks,’ which eventually topple andexpose the tips of the cones. While Kasha-Katuwe means ‘white cliffs’ in thenative language of nearby Pueblo de Cochiti, the formations are banded withpink, beige and gray.

The national monument has two trails for foot traffic only. The Cave LoopTrail is 1.2 miles in length and rated as easy. The Canyon Trail is 1.5 miles longand more difficult. It includes a 630-foot climb to the top of the mesa, wherethe views are spectacular.

The U.S. Department of the Interior’s Bureau of Land Management (BLM)manages Kasha-Katuwe, which it considers to be an “Area of CriticalEnvironmental Concern.” In other words, it is geologically fragile. Please stayon the trails, and note that climbing on the hoodoos is forbidden. The nation-al monument is a day-use area only, and charges a nominal fee.

To get there, head south from Santa Fe on Interstate 25. Take the CochitiPueblo Exit 264 off I-25 onto NM16. Turn right off NM16 onto NM22 and fol-low the signs. For more information contact the BLM Rio Puerco Field Officeat 505-761-8700.

BY BRETT FERNEAU

Your host, Lino Pertusini, from Lake

Como, and staff, invite you to experience

authentic regional Italian cuisine,

and extensive wine list, great cocktails,

world class service in an elegant

charming and historical setting.

Enjoy our fireplace, two bars,

private rooms and outdoor dining.

Located two blocks from Santa Fe Plaza.

Osteria D’ Assisi

505.986.5858

SOUTH FEDERAL PLACESANTA FE, NM

FAX: 505.986.3938

W W W . O S T E R I A D A S S I S I . N E T

I N F O @ O S T E R I A D A S S I S I . N E T

2008 ENCANTADAE20

Santa Fe is undeniably the jewel of the Land of Enchantment,

but its tourism draw peaked in the 1990’s. As the community

entered the third millennium, restaurateurs faced business chal-

lenges that required a recommitment to the fundamentals that

made Santa Fe a national treasure. Despite diverse perspec-

tives, key restaurateurs are unanimous in their commitment to

work together for a stronger community.

“We have to distinguish Santa Fe as a welcoming city,”

states Vanessie owner Fran Mullen. “Restaurants in par-

ticular can take nothing for granted with regard to

THE BUSINESS SIDE OF SANTA FE’S WORLD CLASS CUISINE

WRITTEN AND PHOTOGRAPHED BY JOSEPH BURGESS

New Mexico Tourism Commission Chairman, 2004New Mexico Restaurateur of the Year and Santa FeNative Al Lucero anticipates an exciting decade ofgrowth for the city. “The 400th anniversary celebra-tion, the Railyard development, new Palace of theGovernors wing and new civic center will enticeadditional year-round business. The new Folk ArtFestival is already attracting thousands of visitors.”He also points to increasing holiday traffic bolsteredby European visitors taking advantage of the weakdollar. Maria’s is recognized for its Northern NewMexico cuisine and over 100 variations of its“premium” margaritas.

Al Lucero, owner Maria’s New Mexican Kitchen

DINING “different” in the

CITY different“different”

E21

either our local patrons or our out-of-

town guests. We became complacent in

the ‘90s and today Santa Fe must quick-

ly overcome any sense of entitlement.”

Restaurateurs agree that Santa Fe is in

competition with other destination cities,

that service is critical and, with the high-

est minimum wage in the country, the city

must continue to improve marketing

capabilities. “Santa Fe is a romantic city,”

says Pranzo owner Michael O’Reilly. “It

has the amenities of much larger interna-

tional cities, but differs in that hundreds

of shops, galleries, museums, theater

productions and restaurants can be

accessed on foot from downtown

hotels.” Completion of the new civic cen-

ter, direct air service from several major

U.S. cities and extended commuter train

service from Albuquerque represent

major opportunities.

Seasonality is a challenge that every

restaurateur is forced to grapple. With

one of the shortest peak seasons of any

destination city, developing local clien-

tele is critical. O’Reilly and Mullen are

strong supporters of local non-profits

and keep patrons informed about din-

ing and entertainment opportunities.

Maria’s owner Al Lucero says a strong

local following also influences visitor

dining decisions.

Annette Lujan, GMFusion

Santa Fe native Annette Lujanhas been a chef for 15 years, stud-ied Italian in Milan, attended culi-nary school in Albuquerque andnow manages the eclectic Fusion.“The fiestas help the bar, but therestaurant is very dependent on ourrelationship with the hotels.”Annette also commented on thechallenges a woman faces in thefood and beverage industry. Thesingle mother of seven is veryappreciative of Fusion’s commit-ment to family priorities.

Heather & David Sellers,owners Amavi

David and Heather Sellers latchedonto a good restaurant with anexcellent location and breathed aromantic old-world ambiance into it.“We are confident about our restau-rant venture because people inSanta Fe appreciate good food. Wealso work very hard to attract visitorsfrom the city’s hotels. We are, infact, supportive of all fine-diningestablishments in the area becausewe certainly want our visitors toenjoy a great dining experienceevery night they spend in Santa Fe.”

Lino Pertusini, ownerOsteria d'Assisi

Drawn to Santa Fe by its arts andbeauty, Italian “Cavalier dellaRepubblica” Lino Pertusini discovered aninter-national town with many peoplewho have lived and traveled abroad.“Santa Fe supports a large variety ofaggressive and competitive restaurants.The town attracts great chefs and quali-fied staffs, many of whom have worked inEuropean and major U.S. restaurants andhotels.” Osteria offers specific regionalItalian cuisine, wine and cocktails and fre-quently features guest chefs from Italy tofulfill Santa Fe’s sophisticated palate.

2008 ENCANTADAE22

Mark Kiffin, ownerThe Compound

Mark Kiffin states that his cuisine,influenced by the introduction ofSpanish products from theMediterranean region, is truly theregional food of Santa Fe. He pur-chases food from the suppliers whobest serve the needs of the restau-rant and changes his menu totallywith each of Santa Fe’s four seasons.Mark is a board member of SantaFe’s Wine and Chile Festival andrecipient of the coveted JamesBeard Foundation award as BestChef for the Southwest Division.

The James BeardFoundation

The culinary industry’s most prestigiousrecognition program is undoubtedly theawards presented by the James BeardFoundation. Restaurants, restaurateurs,chefs and beverage personnel from vari-ous regions of the United States annuallyreceive awards in recognition of theirachievements.

The late James Beard was a journalist,food consultant and teacher whoseGreenwich Village home serves as thevenue for showcasing the nation’s finestprofessional culinary presentations. Since1986, the foundation has also supportededucational opportunities and scholar-ships, workshops, food-related artexhibits, lectures and tastings.www.jamesbeard.org

osaka steakhouse & seafood grillSteakhouse:

Lunch: Tues.-Sat. 11:30am-2:30pmDinner: Mon-Sat. 5pm-10pm, Sun 1pm-9pm

Bistro:Lunch: Tues-Sat. 11:30am-2:30pm

Dinner: Mon-Sat. 5pm-10pm, Sun 1pm-9pm

Live Jazz Friday Evenings8:30pm-11:30pm

3501 Zafarano Drive, Santa Fe, NM 87505 (505)471-6698

osaka bistroSushi • Full Bar

Eric LaMalle, ownerRistra

Eric LaMalle came to New Mexicofrom France initially to teach skiingin Taos and later opened a restau-rant there before coming to SantaFe. “With a growing retirementpopulation, we are building astrong local clientele base, but mustmaintain our appeal to hotelguests.” Eric captures the simple,but powerful spirit of New Mexicoin both his French-inspired menuand his contemporary décor. He hastwice been invited to cook by theJames Beard Foundation.

Santa Fe is a city of markets and

festivals. Lucero notes that the new

International Folk Art Festival is

already drawing thousands to

Museum Hill. Mark Kiffin, owner of

The Compound is a board member

of the Wine and Chile Festival. “I

want Santa Fe to be busy,” Mark

states, “and the festivals are huge

attractions.”

Mark also targets people who will

fly to Santa Fe for dinner. “I want

Denver, Dallas and Phoenix dining in

Santa Fe, but we compete with

Aspen and Sedona for that privilege.

I challenge local businesses to get

creative, to help Santa Fe grow.”

Commenting on the 15 or so local

restaurants he considers destination

restaurants, O’Reilly concludes, “We

try to be personal, we hire real chefs

and we serve real food. Santa Fe din-

ing is an exceptional experience.”

E23

Fran Mullen, ownerVanessie Continental Grill

and Piano BarFran Mullen, former CEO of Canada

Dry, relates that the merging of cul-tures over hundreds of years createdunique diversity for Santa Fe’s mar-kets, museums and the arts – a drawfor people from around the world.“Santa Fe must, however, promoteitself as a welcoming destination andenthusiastically support its markets.”Vanessie’s offers a full menu of “GreatAmerican Cuisine” as well as a specialbar menu. It serves unique hot drinks,“only the best martinis” and featuresnightly live entertainment.

Michael O’Reilly, ownerPranzo Italian Grill and O’Keeffe Cafe

Michael O’Reilly, formerly a marketerfor Robert Mondavi wines states thatdespite a population of only 70,000,Santa Fe competes with much larger UScities regarding the arts and of courseits restaurants. “Santa Fe is a romanticcity where a car is not required.” Pranzooffers steak and Italian favorites, nightlylive entertainment and family specials,while the historic and award-winningO’Keeffe Café leans toward classicalFrench techniques and offers wineschosen from the world’s top 2%.

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Traditions run deep in the Spanish mountain village of Chimayó. For centuries, religious pilgrims havejourneyed on foot from near and far to El Santuario de Chimayó during Holy Week. Originally utilized byarea Native Americans, it is still believed that the soil possesses restorative powers. The walls of the sac-risty are covered with discarded crutches and other mementoes of healing.

CHIMAYO

EVENTSMar 20-22 Annual

pilgrimage to Santuario de Chimayo. 505-351-4889

ATTRACTIONSChimayo HistoryMuseum. Area Exhibits.505-351-0945Santuario de Chimayo.Legendary shrine built in1813-1816. 505-351-4889

LOCATIONChimayo is located at the junction of NM520 and NM76, on the old SpanishHigh Road to Taos.

TOURTravel west about 10 miles on NM76, joggingsouth on NM60 a mile through Espanola andturning northwest 6 miles on US84/285. Turn north across the Chama River staying with US285 18 miles to the mineral springs of Ojo Caliente.

MORE INFORMATIONRancho de Chimayo Restaurante 505-984-2100or 505-351-4444. www.ranchodechimayo.comSantuario de Chimayo Gift Shop 505-351-4889. www.holychimayo.us

E25CHIMAYO

opposite: The quaint Santuario de Chimayó wasbuilt on a site believed for centuries to have healingdirt. inset: Rancho de Chimayo Restaurante atdusk in the winter. above: Seven rock sculpturesparallel the creek behind Santuario de Chimayo.

European weaving techniques arrivedwith the original Spanish settlers in the17th century and developed into theclassic Chimayó/Rio Grande weavingstyles. Today local weavers continue thetradition, including award-winning mas-ter weavers Irvin and Lisa Trujillo. Theirgallery features the work of weavers whoutilize natural dyes and handspun yarnto create custom yarn and handwovenitems in the time-honored style of thearea. Products include rugs, blankets,vests, jackets, coats and purses.

In the 1800s, two brothers namedHermenegildo and Epifiano Jaramillohelped each other build houses acrossthe lane from each other along theSpanish Colonial “High Road to Taos.”Hermenegildo’s grandson ArturoJaramillo and his wife Florence remod-eled the historic house, opening Ranchode Chimayó Restaurant in 1965. Therestaurant, with spacious indoor andpatio dining is world-renowned for itsNew Mexican cuisine.

Hacienda Rancho de Chimayó locatedacross the highway from the restaurant,was renovated in 1984. It is a quietseven-room bed and breakfast withenclosed courtyard, antique furniture,sitting rooms and fireplaces throughout.

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With a multi-million dollar renovation in its final stages of completion, the 1100-acre Ojo CalienteMineral Springs and Spa is one of the nation’s oldest and certainly popular centers for natural health andrejuvenation. It is the world’s only known natural hot springs with a combination of four geothermal min-eral waters.

Celebrating 140 years of operation since New Mexico’s first congressional territorial representative,Antonio Joseph, opened the first health spa at Ojo Caliente, the health resort has become more accom-modating with the addition of Pueblo and Cliffside suites and the renovation of cottages, the AdobeHouse hotel and the Adobe Round Barn. All new construction has emphasized the latest in “green” tech-nology and conservation.

OJO CALIENTE

AttractionsOjo Caliente Mineral Springs50 Los Baños Drive off US285.Seven Mineral pools, private mineral baths. Lodging, spa treatments, gift shop. 800-222-9162 or 505-583-2233www.ojocalientespa.com

MORE INFORMATIONojocaliente.com

LOCATIONOjo Caliente is located on US285, featuring ahealth spa utilizing warm spring water flowingfrom four distinct mineral sources.

TOURRetrace the route south to the junction ofUS84/285 and southeast to Espanola. Turnnortheast on NM 68, traveling 46 miles toTaos. An alternate route from Ojo Caliente isto travel north 30 miles on US 285 and east27 miles on US64, crossing the Rio GrandeGorge to Taos.

E27OJO CALIENTE

opposite: The dining room in the renovated AdobeHouse hotel. inset: Ten pools are fed by natural hotsprings supplying four distinct mineral contents.top: A cliffside pool supplied with water containinghigh iron mineralization. above: The historic AdobeRound Barn with its award-winning restorationproduced a spiritual setting for a variety ofgatherings. Photos courtesy Ojo Caliente Mineral Springs.

Ten meticulously maintained mineralpools, including three outdoor privatepools and a mud pool, are consideredto be beneficial for a number of physicalconditions. The four distinctly differentnatural hot water sources combinedwith physical therapy options providean amazing opportunity to enhancehealthful living and relax in an uncom-plicated setting.

Ancient pueblo ruins on the groundsindicate use of the waters for centuriesby native populations. It was named bySpanish explorers in the 1500s, notingthat the local Indian inhabitantsbelieved the waters “were given tothem by their gods.” Ojo Caliente wasre-discovered by Zebulon Pike in 1807as he was being marched to Santa Feunder arrest for exploring New Spainwithout permission.

Ojo Caliente is easily accessed fromSanta Fe and Taos.

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ATTRACTIONSGov. Bent House & Museum. l17A BentSt. Home of first territorial governor. Oldfamily furnishings and frontier artifacts ondisplay. 505-758-2376.Millicent Rogers Museum.1504 Millicent Rogers Rd. New Mexico art, history and culturalexhibits. 505-758-2462. www.millicentrogers.org

Rio Grande Gorge Bridge. 11 milesnorthwest of Taos. 650 feet above theRio Grande River.Taos Pueblo. Designated as a WorldHeritage Site. 505-758-1028.www.taospueblo.comTaos Ski Valley. Ski school rated No.1.Vast system of trails for beginning, inter-mediate and expert skiers. 505-776-229l.www.skitaos.org

LOCATIONTaos is located at the junction of US64,NM68 and NM522 between New Mexico’shighest peaks and deepest gorge.

TOURTravel 42 miles southeast on NM 518 fromRanchos de Taos to Mora and another11 miles south on NM 94 and NM105 toRociada, or return to Santa Fe via NM68and US84/285.

MORE INFORMATIONTaos Chamber of Commerce 800-732-8267 or 505-758-3873.www.taoschamber.com.

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TAOS

The shear mysticism of Taos, a centuries-old melding pot of cultur-al development, natural beauty and an endless supply of brilliant sun-shine, has captured the hearts of America’s artists, writers, historiansand anyone else who simply want to experience the essence of NewMexico’s enchanted spirit. The multistoried structures of Taos Pueblo,occupied for nearly a millennium below New Mexico’s tallest peaks,the bold adobe walls of San Francisco de Asis church in Ranchos deTaos and the stark contrasts created by the river and its gorge fill port-folios and manuscripts with the jewels of this high desert destination.

The area was first recognized for its incredible sunlight and rich cul-ture by east coast artists Bert G. Phillips and Ernest L. Blumenscheinin the late 1800s whose decision to make Taos their home led to theformation of the Taos Society of Artists in 1915. Mabel Dodge andMillicent Rogers began enticing their creative friends to visit Taos inthose early years, establishing the region’s bond with familiar nameslike DH Lawrence, Georgia O'Keeffe and Ansel Adams.

Today, fanning out from the town plaza, streets lined with galleries,museums, shops, quaint coffee houses and hotels touch the creativespirit within each of us. Huge cottonwood trees, seasonal flowers andcrackling fireplaces warm the atmosphere of this high altitude plateauyear round and keep the doors open to thousands of visitors.

An impressive collection of museums maintains the historic per-spectives of Taos. From ancient pottery makers and Spanish andNative American weavers to a host of twentieth century artisans, Taosmuseums showcase the region’s diverse cultures and multifacetedpool of talent.

EVENTSMay 1-31 25th annual Spring Arts Celebration

505-785-3911May 3 Santa Cruz Feast Day at Taos Pueblo.

505-758-1028. www.taospueblo.comMar 9-11 Spring Arts & Crafts Fair. 800-732-8267

www.taoschamber.comJun 13 San Antonio Feast Day Corn Dance at

Taos Pueblo. 505-758-1028www.taospueblo.com

Jun 24 San Juan Day Corn Dance. 505-758-1028www.taospueblo.com

left: The multistoried structure of Taos Pueblo, occupied continuously for hundreds ofyears is the only Native American community designated both as a National Historiclandmark and a World Heritage Site.

Jun 27-29 10th annual Solar Music Festivalat Taos Pueblo. 505-758-9191www.solarmusicfest.com

Jul 11-13 Annual Taos Pow Wow.505-758-1028

Apr 9 San Lorenzo Sunset Danceat Picuris Pueblo. 505-587-2519

Apr 22-24 Taos Autumn Run Classic Car Show. 505-758-1405

Sep 27-Oct 17 Taos Fall Arts Festival505-758-5015 or 800-732-8267www.taosfallarts.com

Oct 25-26 9th Annual Taos Storytelling Festival. 505-758-0081www.somostaos.org

Nov 20 Yuletide in Taos begins. through Dec. 31. 505-758-3873www.taoschamber.com

Dec 25 Taos Pueblo Deer or Matachina Dance 505-758-1028. pueblo.com

Dec 25 Matachina Dance at Picuris Pueblo. 505-587-2519www.picurispueblo.net

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There is no end to the outdooropportunities hosted by this scenicwonderland. The question becomes inwhich season should the adventurebegin. If winter sports are your passion,the Enchanted Circle includes theadrenaline-charged slopes of Taos SkiValley, Red River, Sipapu and Angel Fireand a mellow ice-fishing hole at EagleNest Lake. The region’s dry climate andthat prevailing New Mexico sunshineproduce the lightest, driest, fluffiestpowder possible for outstanding skiand snowboard conditions. High speedlifts, snowmobiles, hot air balloons andgreat dining and entertainment com-plete this plein air sketch of a perfectwinter getaway.

Summer activities are no less chal-lenging. White water rafting, fly fishing,hiking, biking, horseback and llamatreks, and yes, lifts are still running andthe nightlife steaming. For those of ususing the excuse of an old skiing injury,driving and shopping the EnchantedCircle can be equally exhilarating. Theevening may consist of listening,instead of dancing to the live music, butexcellent food, wine, a round of LasVegas style gambling and a hot rockmassage provide an incredible diver-sion to sore muscles.

top: New Mexico’s highest mountains peak throughthe huge cottonwood trees in the Taos Plaza.

www.taosinn.com

www.rcgormangallery.com