El Paso Scene December 2009

Transcript

DEC. • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • w w w . e p s c e n e . c o m Y o u r m o n t h l y g u i d e t o c o m m u n i t y e n t e r t a i n m e n t , r e c r e a t i o n & c u l t u r e A Distant Neighbor Violence in Juárez has kept U.S. volunteers and mission groups at home, cutting off aid and support. — Page 31 On the cover: “My El Paso” by Lyuba Titovets 30x30 acrylic on canvas (private collection) D E C E M B E R 2 0 0 9 INSIDE: Over 600 things to do and places to go during the Holidays! Holiday Movies At The Plaza T i c k e t s N o w O n S a l e THE EL PASO COMMUNITY FOUNDATION PRESENTS Tickets are $5 and can be purchased at the Plaza Theatre box office or at Ticketmaster locations or ticketmaster.com plazaclassic.com Saturday, December 5 2:00 PM - Elf 7:45 PM - It’s A Wonderful Life Sunday, December 6 2:00 PM - A Christmas Story 6:30 PM – White Christmas Page 2 El Paso Scene December 2009 El Paso Gem and Mineral Show —The annual show is Dec. 4-6 at El Maida Auditorium, 6331 Alabama. Hours are 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. Friday and Saturday, and 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Sunday. Admission: $3 ($2 for seniors, mil- itary; free for children 12 and younger with adult admission). The show features gems, min- erals, fossils, beads, silver jewelry, tools and equipment, geode cutting, silent auction, demonstrations and door prizes, Information: Gem Center USA, 533-7153, 1-877-533-7153 or [email protected]. Mountain Country Christmas —The annual event is Friday and Saturday, Dec. 4-5, at the Alpine Civic Center, 801 W. Holland, in Alpine, Texas. The event includes an arts crafts fair, baked goods, organizational booths, holiday product vendors, entertainment. Admission is free. Information: Alpine Visitor’s Center (432) 837-2326 or Children’s Advocacy Center, (432) 837-5515. The Christmas Parade of Lights begins around 6 p.m. Friday evening from the Civic Center, and travels east on Holland Ave. to Jackson Field. • The Christmas Tour of Historic Homes is Saturday, Dec. 12, featuring several of the city’s historic residences decorated for the holi- days. Tour times to be announced: Nancy Hendryx, (432) 837-9520 or historicalpine.org. • The annual New Year’s Eve Ball benefiting the Family Crisis Center of the Big Bend is Thursday, Dec. 31, at the Alpine Civic Center. Magoffin Holiday Open House — The annual holiday season event at the Magoffin Home State Historic Site, 1120 Magoffin, is 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Saturday and Sunday, Dec. 5-6. Enjoy the holiday decorations, refreshments, piñatas and other activities amid the authentic art and furnishings of this historic home. Music will be provided by local school choirs. Admission: $3 (free for children). Information: 533-5147 or 585-4344. San Jacinto Plaza Christmas Tree Lighting — The 74th annual “Christmas in Lights” continues the holiday tradition of the plaza’s spectacular Christmas tree and displays beginning at Saturday, Dec. 5, at San Jacinto Plaza downtown. The ceremony begins at 4:30 p.m. with live entertainment. The lighting of the 55-foot Christmas tree by Mayor John Cook and City Council members is at 5:55 p.m. followed by the 12th annual lighted Christmas parade at 6 p.m. Information: 541- 4331 or 544-5436. Groups and organizations wanting to partici- pate in the parade can contact Sandy Rodriguez at 240-3310. El Paso Community Foundation will feature holiday movies at The Plaza Theatre, including “Elf” at 2 p.m. and “It’s A Wonderful Life” at 7:45 p.m. Organist Jack Stewart will perform Christmas carols on the historic Plaza Organ preceding the evening movie at 7:15 p.m. Tickets: $5. Oñate Trail Dog Fanciers Dog Shows — The association’s inaugural all-breed dog show is 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. Saturday and Sunday, Dec. 5-6, at El Paso County Coliseum, open to the more than 150 breeds and varieties of dogs recognized by the American Kennel Club. Admission is free. Information: 626-9975, 241- 2641 or otdfa.org. The competition tests the dog’s form against the breed “Ideal Dog.” Also held is an AKC Rally and Obedience Trials. All competition is in show rings under judges. Points awarded and count toward the dog’s championship. Children 9 to 18 can compete with others their own age at various AKC events. Juniors competing in conformation events are judged on how they present their dogs. ‘Navidad on the Border’ —The annual homage to the community’s traditional Christmas customs is 3 to 5 p.m. Wednesday, Dec. 9, at the Chamizal National Memorial theater. Presented by Que Bonita Familia and the El Paso Community College Senior Adult Program. Admission is free, but seating is limit- ed. Complimentary tickets available through the Seniors Adult Program: 831-7801. The holiday musical and cultural exchange presented by seniors from El Paso and Juarez, features the Nativity, Our Lady of Guadalupe and Juan Diego, traditional songs and dances, plus Santa and Mrs. Claus and elves. may 2 000 December 2009 Please see Page 4 DECEMBER INDEX December Roundup 3-17, 29 Behind the Scene 6 Scene Spotlight 6 Program Notes 18 Viva Juárez 19 Dance 20 Here’s the Ticket 21-23 Sports 24-26 Music 27-28 Feature: A Distant Neighbor 31-34 ElPasoFishnet 35 Nature 36-37 At the Museum 38-40 SW Art Scene 41-45 Gallery Talk 46 Racking Up History 47 Becoming Bicultural 48 On Stage 49-50 Stage Talk 50 Keep on Bookin' 51-52 History Lessons 53 Film Scene 54-55 Liner Notes 56 January Preview 57 Scene Users Guide 58 Advertiser Index 58 Subscription Form 58 THE UNIVERSITY OF TEXAS AT EL PASO Presents The All-Singing, All-Dancing Holiday Extravaganza! THE FINAL PRODUCTION! December 18-20, 2009 0DJRIÀQ$XGLWRULXP87(3&DPSXV TICKET PRICES - ALL SEATS GENERAL ADMISSION Adults $20 ~ UTEP Fac/Staff/Group (20+) $15 UTEP Alumni Assoc Members $15 ~ Children (12 yrs old and under) $10 Non-UTEP Students $15 ~ UTEP Students $10 (One ticket per valid UTEP ID) FINAL PRODUCTION! LAST CHANCE TO SEE! Tickets available at the UTEP Ticket Center (747-5234) and at all Ticketmaster outlets. Charge tickets by phone by calling 747-5234 or 1-800-745-3000. Order tickets online at www.ticketmaster.com For More Information Call 747-6060 El Paso Scene Page 3 December 2009 Page 4 El Paso Scene December 2009 St. Anthony’s Seminary Posada — The seminary, at Crescent and Hastings in Central El Paso, celebrates the traditional custom of the posada at about 6:30 p.m. nightly Dec. 16- 23, with rosary, songs by Los Franciscanos and procession, followed by the breaking of piñatas. The posada is conducted in Spanish. The semi- nary’s famous Nativity scene will be on display through Christmas Day. Information: 566-2261. International Posada — The 18th annual International Posada is 6 p.m. Thursday, Dec. 17, at San Jacinto Plaza. The event includes the traditional re-creation of the Holy Couple’s search for shelter, along with a piñata, tradi- tional holiday treats and choirs singing “villanci- cos” (Christmas carols). Groups from both El Paso and Juárez have been invited to perform. The annual posada is sponsored by the El Paso Central Business Association, the City of El Paso, the Mexican Consulate and others. Admission is free. Information: 533-2656. Luminarias Festival/Posadas along the Mission Trail — The Mission Trail will glow with traditional Christmas luminarias Saturday, Dec. 19, for its 15th annual event. Around 30,000 luminarias will be lit at 6 p.m., lining Socorro Road from the Ysleta Mission past the Socorro Mission, then to the San Elizario Plaza. Admission is free. Information: 851-1682. or themissiontrail.net. The 8-mile route includes all three Mission Trail churches, the oldest continuously active churches in the United States. Some shops and restaurants along the trail will remain open after hours for open houses or shopping. Each community will host its own posada and holi- day festivities beginning at dusk, and special activities will be held at the Tigua Cultural Center. In conjunction, the San Elizario Genealogy & Historical Society will host free events begin- ning at 5 p.m. at the Los Portales Museum, 1521 San Elizario Road. A live nativity pageant will be performed by local actors, and tradi- tional food and refreshments will be available for a small donation. Information: epcounty.com/sanelizariomuseum. Posada Navideña —La Mujer Obrera and Mercado Mayapán will host traditional Mexican festivities featuring posadas at 3 p.m. Saturday and Sunday, Dec. 19-20, at the Festival Marketplace, 2101 Myrtle. The program includes pastorelas, which are theatrical acts based on good versus evil. Food and artisan goods for sale throughout the month. Admission is free. Information: 532-6200 or mujerobrera.org. North Pole at the Museum— International Museum of Art, 1211 Montana, will host its 3rd annual afternoon of holiday entertainment 2 to 4 p.m. Sunday, Dec. 20, featuring Christmas carols, storytelling, pictures with Santa and Mrs. Claus, entertainment, holi- day treats such, coloring contest and more. Admission is free, nominal fee for photos with Santa, proceeds benefiting the museum. Information: 543-6747 or internationalmuseu- mofart.net. A coloring contest sheet for grades K-2 is available online or at the museum during regu- lar hours 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Wednesday through Friday and 1 to 5 p.m. Saturday and Sunday. All entries must be returned by Dec. 18. A new drawing contest for grades 3-5 is also planned. Children should create a drawing on the theme “Christmas Imagination.” Entries should be 9”x12” or 10”x13.” Kwanzaa — Events honoring the values of ancient African cultures will take place at 7 p.m. nightly, Dec. 26-Jan. 1, at the McCall Neighborhood Center, 3231 E. Wyoming. Information: 566-2407. Created by Dr. Maulana Karenga as a way to celebrate family, community and culture in the African-American community, Kwanzaa focuses on Nguzo Saba (The Seven Principles), that include Unity, Self-Determination, Collective Work and Responsibility, Cooperative Economics, Purpose, Creativity and Faith. Mount Cristo Rey: Hike Through Time — A special Brut Sun Bowl Week hike with presentations on Mount Cristo Rey, local histo- ry and environment begins at noon Wednesday, Dec. 30, at Mount Cristo Rey, Sunland Park, N.M. Length: 5 miles round trip (2-3 hours). Cost: $5 ($2 for children) donation requested for the Mt. Cristo Restoration Committee. Information: 542-1422. No reservation is required. The hike is sponsored by the El Paso Convention and Visitors Bureau and El Paso Scene and. Hike leader is Randy Limbird, editor and publisher of El Paso Scene. Presenters include Bernie Sargent, Kevin Von Finger and Ruben Escandon. Security is provided. The 5-mile hike is easy to moderate, and is suitable for all ages. Meet at the large parking lot at the trailhead to Mt. Cristo Rey off McNutt Road (NM 273). Take the Racetrack exit off Paisano and cross the Rio Grande. Brut Sun Bowl — The 75th annual football classic begins at noon, Thursday, Dec. 31. The game features the Pac-10 Conference versus the Big 12 Conference, the Big East Conference or the University of Notre Dame. Teams will be announced Dec 6. Reserved seats: $20-$60; general admission: $15. Captain’s Club tickets: $650. Information: 533- 4416, 1-800-915-BOWL or sunbowl.org. (Ticketmaster) The game will be broadcast live on CBS for the 41st consecutive year. Pregame activities begin at 11:30 a.m. in the stadium, and the Sun Bowl Fun Zone activity area for children is open 10:30 a.m. to 2 p.m. outside of the stadium’s east concourse. Other Sun Bowl events: • The Rotary Club Kick Off Luncheon is 11:30 a.m. Thursday, Dec. 10, at Doubletree Hotel Downtown, 600 N. Mesa. • The 7th annual Sports World Sun Bowl 5K run and 1-mile fun walk is 9:30 a.m. Saturday, Dec. 19, at the Las Palmas LifeCare Center Back Parking Lot, 3333, N. Mesa. Entry fee: $20 in advance; $25 on race day ($15 for groups of 10 or more, military and Mexico resi- dents. Information: Chris at Up and Running, 478-5663. (see separate listing) • Kiwanis Bowl Before the Bowl event is planned at Oasis Lanes, 1660 N. Zaragosa. Date to be announced. • Rotary Sun Bowl Football Team Luncheon is Wednesday, Dec. 30, at the El Paso Convention Center. Doors open at 11 a.m. The starting line-ups from both teams are intro- duced at 11:30 a.m. and the head coaches are highlighted as well. Tickets: $50; tables for eight $400 (eight guests or 6 guests and two football player from each team). Information: 533-4416, ext. 10 or 544-2582. • Price’s Give ‘Em Five Sun Bowl Cheer Camp is 1 to 4 p.m. Wednesday, Dec. 30, at El Paso Convention Center. Information: 533-3311. • The 12th annual Sun Bowl Fan Fiesta is 4 to 8 p.m. Wednesday, Dec. 30, at the El Paso December Roundup Cont’d from Page 3 Please see Page 5 Page 5 December 2009 Holiday Movies at the Plaza Saturday, December 5 2 PM - Elf ~ 7:45 PM - It's a Wonderful Life Sunday, December 6 2 PM - A Christmas Story ~ 6:30 PM - White Christmas Plaza Theatre Dave Koz- A Smooth Jazz Christmas December 17 ~ 7 PM ~ Plaza Theatre Moscow Ballet's Great Russian Nutcracker December 20 ~ 4 & 8 PM ~ Plaza Theatre Plaza Theatre Performing Arts Centre | Abraham Chavez Theatre Judson F. Williams Convention Center | McKelligon Canyon Amphitheatre Tickets for events listed above may be purchased at any Ticketmaster outlet, ticketmaster.com by calling 800-745-3000 or at the Plaza Theatre Box Office. For More Information Visit: theplazatheatre.org or elpasocpac.com Pink Floyd Laser Spectacular January 15 ~ 7:30 PM ~ Abraham Chavez Theatre Michael Jackson Laser Spectacular January 16 ~ 7:30 PM ~ Abraham Chavez Theatre Bill Maher January 28 ~ 8 PM ~ Plaza Theatre Riverdance: The Farewell Performances February 12 - 14 ~ Plaza Theatre El Paso Opera - Porgy & Bess March 12 & 13 ~ 7:30 PM ~ Abraham Chavez Theatre Nearly Neil & The Solitary Band January 31 ~ 2:30 PM ~ Abraham Chavez Theatre Tickets Make Great Gifts! A Holiday Afternoon with the El Paso Symphony Orchestra December 13 ~ 2 PM ~ Plaza Theatre Convention Center, with free activities and games for kids 6 and younger, face painting, balloon animals, magic acts, local bands, Battle of University Bands and Cheerleaders, food and drink for purchase, and a fireworks display. Our Lady of Guadalupe Fiesta of Our Lady of Guadalupe — The 13th annual three-day religious festival in Tortugas, N.M. is Thursday through Saturday, Dec. 10-12. The festival is the biggest event of the year in Tortugas, a small village near Mesilla Park that’s home to the Tortugas Indians. Events are centered at Our Lady of Guadalupe Church. Events begin Thursday evening with an all- night wake and Native American dancers. The annual a procession, rosary and vigil to the Tortugas “A” Mountain begins at 7 a.m. Friday followed by the bishop’s Mass on the mountain. A rosary is around 4 p.m. and at sun- down, pilgrims will light luminarias along the mountain path. A fiesta Mass is 9 a.m. Saturday followed by Danzante Dances and a traditional free fiesta dinner sponsored by La Corporacion de Nuestra Señora de Guadalupe, the governing body of the tribe (which is related to the Tiguas). A procession around the village, rosary and reception in honor of the Corporacion’s mayordomos concludes the events Friday after- noon. To get there: Take Interstate 10 to Las Cruces, exit on University Avenue and go under the freeway; turn left at the stop sign and continue on Main, going through two sig- nals. Turn left on Tortugas Drive and then turn right on Parroquia. Information: (575) 526-8171 or (575) 522- 0288. Piro-Manso-Tiwa Indian Tribe of Guadalupe Pueblo —Events celebrating the Virgin of Guadalupe are Dec. 10-12 at St. Genevieve’s Church and Parish Hall, 100 South Espina and 1025 E. Las Cruces Ave., in Las Cruces. Admission is free, and everyone is invited. Information: (575) 524-0623 or (575) 650-1945. A procession of the virgin is 6 to 7 p.m. Thursday and Friday from the hall to the church. Menudo will be served until midnight at the hall. A velorio (rosary) and dancing of Matachines de La Danza del Piro-Manso-Tiwa Indian Tribe will be held at the church until 2 a.m. A Mass for the Virgin de Guadalupe will be given at 7 p.m. Saturday, followed by dancing by the matachines (Los Danzantes) and Piro- Manso-Tiwa Tribe members until 5 p.m. The Virgin de Guadalupe is kept in the church until New Year’s Day, when she will be taken out at 2 p.m. in a procession accompanied by dancing and pageantry. She is then taken home until next December. Our Lady of Guadalupe exhibition and mini-festival — An opening art reception and mini-festival is 5:30 to 7:30 p.m. Friday, Dec. 11, at La Galeria de la Misíon de Senecú, the Ysleta Independent School District’s gallery at 8455 Alameda. Entertainment includes the Riverside High School Mariachis, El Paso Classical Guitar Quartet and matachines dancers, plus food, arts and crafts vendors. Admission is free. Information: 434-9711 or fin- earts.yisd.net. The 12th annual “Our Lady of Guadalupe” exhibition, featuring professional and student works that pay homage to a popular cultural icon in the El Paso border region, runs Dec. 11-Jan. 21. Church programs ‘The Deliverer’ — The annual large-scale holiday pageant of music and drama celebrating the Christmas season is Dec. 11-13 and Dec. 18-20 at Cielo Vista Church, 3585 Lee Trevino. Showtimes are 7:30 p.m. Friday through Sunday, with 2:30 p.m. matinees Saturday and Sunday. Tickets: $5. All seats general admission. Available at the church ticket window. Information: 595-0288 or cielovista.org. The church’s Arts Ministry production cele- brates the most treasured stories of the Bible and the events leading up to the miraculous birth of Jesus Christ with live action, singing, dancing and panoramic visuals. A Coffeehouse Christmas — CrossPoint Church, 11995 Montwood, presents the its annual holiday gift to the community “A Quest for Christmas” Dec. 11-13, featuring vignettes of drama, dance and music presented in a cof- feehouse atmosphere. Performances are at 7 p.m. Friday and Saturday, and at services at 10 a.m. and 3 p.m. Sunday. Coffee and homemade Christmas cookies will be served. Admission is free. Information: 857-7492. ‘Living Christmas Tree’ — The 45th annu- al Christmas concerts at First Baptist Church, 805 Montana, are 4:30 and 7:30 p.m. Saturday and 6 p.m. Sunday, Dec. 12-13, 805 Montana, featuring more than 125 participants perform- ing familiar holiday songs, both old and new. Tickets: $3, available in the church office Monday through Friday on a first come, first served basis. Doors open one hour prior to each performance. The event usually sells out early. Free child care available for ages 4 and younger. Information: 533-1465 or fbcep.com. Since 1964, the Tree program features the Quintessential Brass, along with the children’s choir, Grace Notes ensemble, LCT Band, and the Christmas Chorus of students and adults. The program will include a variety of Christmas favorites as well as new selections from classi- cal to gospel. ‘The Wonder of Christmas’ — Coronado Baptist Church, 501 Thunderbird, will host its annual Christmas Cantata performance at 6:30 p.m. Saturday and Sunday, Dec. 12-13, featur- ing the church’s Christmas Choir, Children’s Choir and Orchestra. The cantata-style pro- gram combines music with drama. Nursery provided. A cookie fellowship follows Saturday’s performance. Admission is free. Information: 584-3912 or coronadobaptist.org. Mariachi Christmas — Mariachi San Pablo will host an evening of music celebrating the birth of Christ at 6 p.m. Saturday, Dec. 12, at Sao Pablo Lutheran Church, 301 S. Schutz Dr. The group will perform a variety of Christmas songs in both English and Spanish. Presented by Ysleta Lutheran Mission. Admission: $3, space is limited. Tickets available at the door or in advance at 858-2588 or ylm.org. A menudo dinner fundraiser will also be held 6 to 9:30 p.m. Menudo plates: $5. ‘Handel’s Messiah’ — Western Hills United Methodist Church, 524 Thunderbird, hosts the holiday concert at 7 p.m. Sunday, Dec. 20. The Chancel Choir and soloists are joined by a guest orchestra in performing Part I of Handel’s masterpiece. Admission is free. Information: 584-2133 or westernhillsep.org. Christmas Celebration — Abundant Living Faith Center, 1000 Valley Crest, will host its December Roundup Cont’d from Page 4 Please see Page 8 El Paso Scene Page 6 December 2009 T his is the last of three trips down memory lane of my four years as a newspaper reporter. I’ve spent nearly 24 years since then as an editor, but life as an editor just doesn’t yield the same kind of interesting tales. In late 1984 I accepted a job as a state desk reporter at the Columbus (Ohio) Citizen-Journal. I was one of three reporters covering rural counties in cen- tral, southern and southeast Ohio. On an average day I usually worked the phones to gather enough information for two or three stories for the early editions that served the rural counties. But if the story was big enough, I would head out as far as Portsmouth to the south or Athens to the southeast. Several stories stand out in my memory. One was a trial involving allegations of child sex abuse by a day-care worker. The case was shaky at best, mainly because it seemed like the toddlers had been told what to say. Nevertheless, the courtroom was filled with angry parents who believed their children had been molested. After the jury issued a not guilty verdict, the judge blasted the prosecutor and social service workers for their poor han- dling of the investigation. As the court- room emptied, one of the fathers rushed from his seat to attack the defendant. I grabbed my camera and captured the brief melee as bailiffs kept the man from getting beyond the front row. The defen- dant hurried away to an undisclosed loca- tion, which I was able to figure out based on some court documents in the clerk’s office. I talked my way into an exclusive interview with the defendant (a frail young man who had lost custody of his own kids during the case). Then I had to drive an hour to the office, arriving with 45 minutes left before deadline to file two front-page stories on the day’s events. Then there was the case of a local con- tractor whose business was going bank- rupt because the state hadn’t paid him. He sent a foolish letter to state officials saying he knew how to undo some of the repairs he had made on state highway bridges. This resulted in highly sensation- al TV coverage warning people that they might not be safe driving home, and also led to a warrant for the man’s arrest. I had talked to the contractor previously on the phone, and he asked me to help him surrender to the authorities — on condition that he be granted an audience with the state director of transportation. So he and I walked up to the state build- ing together as we were met by state police and escorted to a conference room where he repeated his complaints before being taken to jail. The story fizzled, however, as the suspect was booked on a minor misdemeanor charge that later was reduced to disturbing the peace. The Citizen-Journal went out of busi- ness at the end of 1985, in a situation similar to the old El Paso Herald-Post. Both were smaller partners in joint oper- ating agreements where the bigger news- paper eventually took over completely. The C-J chapter of my career lasted only about 15 months, but it turned out to be a helpful transition. I filled in for my boss occasionally, discovered I liked edit- ing and made the move into management at my next job. I would occasionally do some reporting, but nothing as adventur- ous as those early years. * * * The Scene is sponsoring two events this month: Christmas on the Pecos Dec. 12 (see our ad on Page 53) and our annual Hike Up Cristo Rey at noon Dec. 30 (Page 23). Please join us! © 2009 Cristo Rey Communications Randy Limbird Editor and Publisher (915) 542-1422 Albert Martinez Advertising & Circulation Director (915) 920-7244 Lisa Kay Tate Associate Editor (915) 542-1422 ext. 4 Editorial Associates: Noelle Lantka, Mó nica Garza Circulation Associates: Randy Friedman, Gil Garza Stephanie Friedman Contributing Writers: Richard Campbell, Brian Chozick, Myrna Zanetell, Carol Viescas, Walter Schaefer, Bill Rakocy Subscription Form is on Page 58 Visit El Paso Scene Online at www.epscene.com sponsored by Phidev, Inc. December 2009 El Paso Scene is published by Cristo Rey Communications as a monthly guide to entertainment, recreation and culture in the El Paso area. Copies are provided free at selected locations. Subscriptions are $10 a year, sent by 3rd class mail. Circulation: 40,000 copies. El Paso Scene P. O. Box 13615 El Paso, Texas 79913 PH: 542-1422 FAX: 542-4292 Office: 316 Arboles, El Paso TX 79932 E-mail: ep[email protected] Deadline for news for the January issue is Dec. 16 The January issue comes out Dec. 30 Holiday Movies at The Plaza —El Paso Community Foundation hosts Christmas and winter-themed movies Dec. 5-6. Page 2. ‘Microscopias’ — The exhibition based on the research of Dr. Alvar Carillo-Gil runs through Jan. 10 at El Paso Museum of Art. Page 16. Hal Marcus Studio and Gallery — Showing through Jan. 29: “Paint the Town Red” group show. The 35th annual Happy Holidaze arts and and craft fair is Dec. 12. Page 59. El Paso Convention and Performing Arts Center — Holiday Afternoon with the Symphony (Dec. 13), Dave Koz (Dec. 17), Great Russian Nutcracker (Dec. 20) and Bill Maher (Jan. 28) at The Plaza Theatre; Pink Floyd Laser Spectacular (Jan. 15), Michael Jackson Laser Spectacular (Jan. 15) and Nearly Neil & Solitary Band (Jan. 31) at Abraham Chavez Theatre. Page 19. ‘Navidad de Las Luminarias’— Bruce Nehring Consort’s annual holiday concerts are Dec. 4-6 at the Chapel at Loretto. Page 7. Christmas Tour of Homes — El Paso Symphony’s fundraising tour of distinctive Upper Valley homes is Dec. 5-6. Page 44. Bissell Art Studio —Artists Bill and Nanci Bissell will host a Christmas Art Show and Open House Dec. 4-6. Page 15. Desert Crossing Holiday Market — Ardovino’s Desert Crossing’s 5th annual market is Dec. 6, in the Sunset Hall. Page 50. Sunland Park Racetrack & Casino — The 2009-2010 live horse racing season runs Dec. 11-April 21. Page 19. Rubin Center —Showing through Dec. 12: “Snagged: Tom Leader Studio;” “Love Without Contact: Ruben Verdu” and “Celebrity: A Photographic Legacy from the Andy Warhol Foundation for the Visual Arts.” Page 41. The Bookery — A holiday open house and booksigning with Martin Bencomo is Dec. 12 at the book store inside the Mission Trail Trading Post in Socorro. Page 51. ‘The Wonder of Christmas’ — Coronado Baptist Church’s annual Christmas Cantata per- formance is Dec. 12-13. Page 47. Escamilla Art Studio and Gallery Open House —Impressionist Alberto Escamilla hosts his 3rd annual Christmas season open house and Studio Tour Dec. 12-13. Page 28. Executive Singles Gala — Executive Single’s 19th annual semi-formal Christmas Gala and Dance is Dec. 13. Page. 21. ‘A Christmas Carol’ — UTEP Department of Theatre and Dance offers its annual presenta- tion of Dickens’ Christmas classic Dec. 13-20, at UTEP’s Wise Family Theatre. Page 32. ‘UTEP Holiday Spectacular’ – UTEP Dinner Theatre presents a “Version 3.0” of its new hol- iday tradition Dec. 18-20 at Magoffin Auditorium. Page 3. The Crossland Gallery — Through Dec. 19: Art Junction Studio Artists exhibit. Page 23. ‘Honk!’ – El Paso Playhouse presents the family musical based on Hans Christian Andersen’s “The Ugly Duckling” through Dec. 19. Page 8. Posada Navideña —Mercado Mayapán will host traditional Mexican festivities featuring posadas Dec. 19-20 . Page 33. Tango in the New Year —Paso del Norte Tango Club hosts a New Year’s Dance at Shundo Dance Studio Dec. 31 . Page 34. New Year’s Eve at The Forum —Asi Band headlines Dec. 31 at 3800 Mattox. Page 11. LYNX Exhibits —Showing through Jan. 3: “The World of Giant Bugs.” Page 49. Southern New Mexico Inn of the Mountain Gods — The casino offers round-trip shuttle service from El Paso Tuesdays through Thursdays. Page 45. ‘TGIFF’ in Silver City — Several restaurants, shops and “Red Dot” galleries stay open late the first Friday of each month beginning Dec. 4. The annual Downtown Holiday Celebration is Dec. 12. Pages 37 and 39. Trans-Siberian Orchestra —One of the country’s top touring holiday shows returns to the area for its 2009 Winter” Night Castle” Tour Dec. 9, at NMSU’s Pan American Center in Las Cruces. Page 7. Old-Fashioned Christmas —MainStreet Truth or Consequences presents the traditional holiday Dec. 11. Page 48. Los Artesanos Galeria — A “Meet the Artists Night” reception is Dec. 11, during the Mesilla gallery’s Grand Opening celebration. Page 25. Scene Spotlight highlights events adver- tised in this issue. Support our advertisers by attending these events, and tell them you saw in the Scene! El Paso Scene Page 7 December 2009 The spiril of an LngIish CalhedraI Chrislmas comes lo Iife in lhe magnificenl ChapeI al Lorello, decoraled in hoIidav spIendor vilh Iuminarias, candIes, poinsel- lias and vhile Iighls. The Consorl Singers, direcled bv ßruce Nehring, viII be |oined bv lhe ÒuinlessenliaI ßrass, organisl Lesler Ackerman of CharIolle, N.C., and lhe Consorl IIavers. Òur program of sacred Chrislmas music ranges from Renaissance lo conlemporarv, and incIudes inlernalion- aI caroIs and meIodies. NavIdad dc !as LumInarIas has become LI Iaso's advenl inlo sharing lhe |ov and sacredness of lhe Chrislmas season. 'Tis lhe besl of manv vorIds vrapped inlo one. NAVIDAD DE LAS LUMINARIAS CHRISTMAS AT THE CHAPEL AT LORETTO Hcrccwcy - Ircwbr|cce - Pcync|cs Ihe Consort $|ngers Ou|ntessent|o| 8ross |ester Ackermon, Orgon 8 Instrumento||sts Fr|doy, Dec. 4 7:45 p.m. $oturdoy, Dec. 5 2:30, 5:00, 8:00 p.m. $undoy, Dec. 6 2:30, 5:00 p.m. A|| t|ckets $15 ot the door Sen|cr[M|||Icry[Grcup c|sccunIs cvc||cb|e unI|| Dec. 1 534-$ONG (-7664) Crec|I ccrcs cccepIec Ñc Phcne Crcers ÀfIer Dec. 1 CIildrcn si× and oldcr adniiicd. IRE 8kdCE NERkING CON$OkI E| Pcsc´s Prcfess| cnc| S| ncers cnc Chcmber P| cyers El Paso Scene Navidad en la Frontera From the smell of sweet tamales and pinon firewood and the soft glow of luminarias, the festive posada proces- sions, the border area does the holiday season like nowhere else. Here are some of the things help define El Paso del Norte’s traditional Christmas celebrations: • Luminarias — Luminaria is the most commonly used name for a homemade lantern made of a brown paper bag and candle. The simple glowing lights, also referred to as “farolitos” (little lanterns), are a common site on walkways, rooftops and curbsides throughout the Christmas season. • Posada — Spanish for “inn,” a posada is a processional reenacting Mary and Joseph’s search for shelter in Bethlehem. During a posada, groups usually travel to three sites (often private homes) and singing carols “villancicos” and praying. After being “turned away” at the first two locations, they find shelter at the third, where a celebration with food, music and often a piñata awaits. These are done by some churches nightly for nine evenings (novena) through Christmas Eve. • Pastorela — The Shepherd’s Play or “Los Pastores” is a religious folk drama celebrating the time the shepherds find their way to the stable where the Christ Child is born. These type of dramatic pre- sentations were used by Spanish settlers to introduce early Native American cul- tures to Christian Themes. These plays are performed by different churches and cultural groups every year, and often combine drama, music and dance. • Our Lady of Guadalupe — The reported appearance of a mestizo Virgin Mary near Mexico City in 1531 is not actually associated with Christmas, but her Feast Day of Dec. 12 often starts Christmas celebrations for many with parades, festivals, special masses and can- dlelit processionals. • La Noche Buena — “The Holy Night,” is what Christmas Eve is referred to in Mexico. Noche Buena is a time for fami- ly get-togethers, and the celebration of the birth of Christ. Often a small gift or treat is given to the children, and tradi- tional holiday foods such as tamales, empanadas, bizcochitos and capirotada (Mexican bread pudding) is served. The evening ends with the attending of a peaceful midnight mass, known as “La Misa Del Gallo” (Rooster’s Mass). The Poinsettia, a native plant of Mexico, if often called “Flor de la Noche Buena” or Flower of the Holy Night. • El Dia de Los Reyes Magos — Epiphany is the traditional end of the Christmas season (Jan. 6), and a time of gift giving time. This day celebrates when the Wise Men “Los Reyos Magos” came bearing gifts for the Christ child. In some Latin cultures, the children leave their shoes on the doorstep the night of Jan. 5 for the gift-bearing wise men to leave presents in the next day. The day is also a time to remember gift giving, and making charitable contributions. Also part of this day are King’s cakes, a ring-shaped coffee cake type of dessert with a small toy baby baked into it. The person finding the baby in the piece is the one who will host the next party. • Traditional foods — Most people are familiar with tamales, bizochitos (sugar cookies with anise seasoning) and empanadas (small fruit-filled pies). Here are a few more regional treats. • Posole — a hominy or corn-based stew in a pork or chicken broth base spiced with green or red chile. • Capirotada — Mexican bread pudding. The name means “a little bit of every- thing,” and it can include anything from brown sugar, raisins, chopped nuts and vanilla to shredded cheese. • Menudo – A stew made of tripe (stom- ach lining or cow), posole and other ingredients. Popular Christmas morning breakfast treat (and New Year’s). • Champurrado — Mexican hot choco- late. A rich, chocolate drink seasoned with cinnamon and beaten with a rotary beater (molinillo) until frothy. El Paso Community College Senior Adult Program presents its annual hom- age to the community’s traditional Christmas customs Wednesday, Dec. 9, at the Chamizal National Memorial theater. annual orchestral production and candlelight communion services celebrating the birth of Jesus Christ Dec. 20-24, in the center’s audi- torium. The production includes musical come- dy, dance, drama, candlelight communion and live Nativity scene. Performances are 7 p.m. Sunday through Wednesday, and 5 and 7:30 p.m. Thursday. Nursery and children’s classes provided. Admission is free. Information: 532- 8543 or alfc.com. ‘A Christmas Homecoming’ — The Music Ministry of First Presbyterian Church of El Paso will host a special Christmas presenta- tion at 4 p.m. Sunday, Dec. 20, at First Presbyterian Church, 1320 Murchison, featur- ing the church’s Chancel Choir, Children’s Choir, Bell Choir and special guest soloists accompanied by a full orchestra and the Quintessential Brass. The concert includes selections from Handel’s “Messiah,” “Christmas Day” by Gustav Holst and Christmas favorites such as “Angels We Have Heard on High,” “O Holy Night,” “The First Nowell,” “Joy to the World” and “Silent Night.” Admission is free, but donations accepted. Information: 533-7551 or firstpres-ep.org. A Christmas Feast will follow the concert. Please RSVP: [email protected]. Let There Be Lights Luminarias by the Lake — Thousands of luminarias will line the walking paths at Keystone Heritage Park and El Paso Desert Botanical Gardens, 4200 Doniphan, 6 to 9 p.m. Friday and Saturday, Dec. 4-5, featuring musi- cal entertainment and holiday refreshments for sale. Proceeds benefit the park. Admission: $4 ($3 seniors and military, $1 children 12 and younger). Information: 584-0563, [email protected] or keystonepark.org. Navidad de La Fe Luminarias — La Fe Clinic will light up Scenic Drive with more than 4,000 luminarias for its 18th annual event 6 to 10 p.m. Saturday, Dec. 19. Admission is free, but sightseers are invited to donate canned and dry goods or cash, to benefit families served by La Fe. Scenic Drive will be open only to one-way traffic during the event, accessible from Richmond/Alabama streets in Central El Paso. Cars proceed slowly westward with lights off to view the luminarias and the city lights of El Paso and Juárez. Drivers will also get to view Santa and his elves and a live Nativity scene. Volunteers and sponsors are always needed. Information: 534-7979. Cumberland Circle — Luminarias and Christmas lights adorn the circle each Christmas Eve in the central El Paso neighbor- hood. From I-10, take Trowbridge northwest to Pennsylvania Ave. Pennsylvania leads directly into the circle. Eastridge Christmas lights — The resi- dents of the Eastside subdivision of Eastridge participates each year in an elaborate neighbor- hood-wide holiday lights display. Lights are usu- ally lit around the first week of December, and run through the holiday season. The subdivision is off McRae Blvd; turn west on Eastridge. Ascarate Park Winter Wonderland — The county park and lake is lit for the holidays through early January. Hours are 6 p.m. to 10 p.m. Monday through Thursday and to 11 p.m. Friday through Sunday. Admission is $1 per vehicle. Information: 772-5605. Christmas Light Tour of El Paso — The popular Christmas trolley tours offer a nightly circuit through El Paso’s best-loved seasonal sights, including San Jacinto Plaza, Ascarate Park and Eastridge among other areas. The enclosed, heated trolley leaves the Convention Center at 6 p.m. Tickets sell out quickly, reser- vations required: El Paso Juarez Trolley Co., 544-0062. Southern New Mexico Ruidoso Festival of Lights — The moun- tain village of Ruidoso will host several Christmas and holiday events though the Christmas season, beginning with the annual Lighting of the Village at dusk Friday, Nov. 27, in midtown. Information: 1-888-71-LIGHTS (714-4448) or RuidosoFOL.org. Christmas in the Park is 6 p.m. Thursday, Dec. 3, at School House Park. Includes lighting of the Southwest’s largest Christmas tree, music and caroling, sleigh rides and visits with Santa. Admission is free. Lincoln County Community Theater presents the family holiday presentation “Christmas Story” Dec. 4-6, and 11-13 at Ruidoso School Performing Arts Center, 125 Warrior Drive. Showtimes are 7 p.m. Friday and 2 p.m. Saturday and Sunday. Call for admission. The annual “Parade of Lights” is 5:30 p.m. Saturday, Dec. 5, in downtown Ruidoso (from Sudderth/Mechem to Pizza Hut), featuring floats packed with seasonal decorations and lights. Special events are planned all day at Wingfield Park in midtown including musicians, carolers, children’s rides and more. The Annual ENMU-Ruidoso Community Choir Concert is 4 p.m. Sunday, Dec. 6, at the Spencer Theater. A Gingerbread house competition is Nov. 30- Dec. 4, at Inn of the Mountain Gods on the Mescalero Apache reservation. Information: 1- 877-277-5677. Ski Apache’s Torch Light Parade is 5 to 8 p.m. Saturday, Dec. 19, at Ski Apache Resort. Veteran skiers carry lighted torches while descending the mountain. Indian fry bread, hot snacks and drinks available for purchase. Indian drumming begins at 5 p.m. with parade down the mountain at 6 p.m. Admission is free, but spectators are encouraged to arrive early. Walk through Bethlehem — Angus Church of the Nazarene in Ruidoso will host 45-minute interactive walks through a recreat- ed village of Bethlehem 6 to 8 p.m. Friday and Sunday, and 2 p.m. Saturday (with reservations) Nov. 27-29 and Dec. 4-6. The guided event features a cast of more than 60 actors and live animals. Visitors can interact with tax collec- tors, Roman soldiers, innkeepers, merchants, dancers, strolling minstrels and more, and learn about the world in which Jesus was born. Wheelchair friendly path. Admission is free. Information: (575) 336-8032 or angusnaz.com. Christmas in Cloudcroft — The Sacramento Mountain community’s holiday sea- son events include: • Santa Land Celebrations are 6:30 p.m. Saturday, Nov. 28 and Dec. 19, in Zenith Park behind the Chamber of Commerce. Santa and Mrs. Claus arrive with treat candy and cookies. Also features a bonfire, marshmallow roast, hot chocolate and cider, holiday music, Cloudcroft’s famous Snow Faeries and games. Information: (575) 682-2733. • The 27th annual Pet Parade is 2 p.m. Saturday, Dec. 5, on Burro Avenue. Information: Gloria, (575) 921-1122. El Paso Scene Page 8 December 2009 December Roundup Cont’d from Page 5 Please see Page 9 • Santa and Mrs. Claus arrive at The Lodge Wednesday, Dec. 24, for a reading of the “Twas The night Before Christmas,” hot cider and cookies served in the Trestle Room. Santa will visit again Christmas morning, and a special holiday buffet will be served. Information: (575) 682-2733 (Chamber of Commerce) or 1-800- 395-6343 (The Lodge). Silver City Lighted Christmas Parade — The 18th annual Silver City Lighted Christmas Parade begins at 7 p.m. Saturday, Nov. 28, on Main Street. The parade is spon- sored by Silver City MainStreet Project. Information: (575) 534-1700. The parade begins at the Grant County Courthouse in historic downtown Silver City, travels east on Broadway Street and turns north onto Bullard Street. The parade includes motorized floats, wagons or carts, lighted cars and bicycles, walking and other entries. Downtown Ramble — The City of Las Cruces hosts an evening of music and art 5 to 7 p.m. the first Friday of the month at the Las Cruces Downtown Mall. Information: (575) 523-2950. NMSU Library Holiday Open House — The New Mexico State University Library hosts a holiday open house, “Celebrating Past, Present and Future,” 2 to 4 p.m. Friday, Dec. 4. Tours will be given of space refurbishments in both Zuhl and Branson libraries, starting in the Zuhl Library lobby. Refreshments served at the end of the tours. Admission is free. Information: Kristina Martinez, (575) 646-3642. City of Las Cruces Christmas Tree Lighting Ceremony — The annual ceremo- ny is 6 to 8:30 p.m. Friday, Dec. 4, at Albert N. Johnson Park, corner of Main and Picacho in Las Cruces. The city has 100,000 lights in the trees at Johnson Park. The celebration includes music, refreshments and a visit from Santa Claus. Information: (575) 541-2000. Also that evening is the 5th annual Trail of Lights Luminaria Walk 6 to 8:30 p.m. at the Las Cruces Downtown Mall and Railroad museum, featuring cocoa, cookies, carols, model trail dis- plays and more. Information: (575) 541-2288. Luminarias on The Plaza — The City of Socorro, N.M. will host its 6th annual arts crawl 5 to 8 p.m. Friday, Dec. 4, on the his- toric plaza and several surrounding shops in Socorro. The event features, live music art- work, food and beverages. Admission is free. Information: (575) 835-8927. ‘TGIFF’ in Silver City — Several of historic Downtown Silver City’s restaurants, shops and “Red Dot” galleries will stay open late the first Friday of each month beginning Dec. 4 as part of the monthly “Thank God It’s First Friday” shopping event. Information: 1-800-548-9378 or silvercitymainstreet.com. On Saturday, Dec. 12, participating Downtown businesses will host sidewalk sales and other Christmas events through the day during the annual Downtown Holiday Celebration. ‘Christmas in the Foothills’— The his- toric Black Range town of Hillsboro, N.M. invites Christmas shoppers for a holiday studio walk 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Saturday, Dec. 5. The celebration includes open houses at art galleries and historic homes as well as holiday activities, and arts and crafts shows. Admission is free. Information: (575) 895-5797. To get there: Take Interstate 25 north from Las Cruces to the NM 152 exit at Caballo, and go west 17 miles. ‘Night of Lights (Noche de Luminarias)’ — Southern New Mexico’s largest luminaria display is 6 to 8:30 p.m. Sunday, Dec. 6, on the New Mexico State University Campus. Continuing a 24-year tradi- tion, more than 5,000 luminarias will light up the International Mall and the path from the Pan American Center to the Corbett Center Student Union. Free holiday entertainment and activities at Corbett Center, including horse- drawn trolley rides and caroling. Information: (575) 646-3200 or nmsu.edu. Mesilla Plaza Christmas Tree Lighting — The community tree lighting is Friday, Dec. 11, in the plaza. Mesilla Mayor Michael Cadena will switch on the tree at 6 p.m. Christmas music by San Albino Church Choir continues until 6:30 p.m. Shops will be open late for holi- day shopping that day, refreshments and some locations. The tree will be decorated with ornaments created by students from Mesilla Elementary School. Admission is free. Information: (575) 524-3262, ext. 116 Mesilla is southwest of Las Cruces. Take I-10 West to the Avenida de Mesilla exit. The plaza is off NM Highway 28 (Avenida de Mesilla) south of I-10. Luminarias and Christmas music will be fea- tured on the Plaza 5:30 to 7:30 p.m. Christmas Eve. The Mesilla Singers choir will lead in the singing of Christmas carols, and luminarias will be lit around dusk. Old-Fashioned Christmas —MainStreet Truth or Consequences presents the traditional holiday event 6 to 9 p.m. Friday, Dec. 11. Festivities begin with the tree lighting 6 p.m. at Evelyn Renfro Park. Santa will visit at the Teen Center (Daniels and McAdoo). Carolers and the Hot Springs High School will perform at Broadway and Main. Festival of Lights on Austin Street includes food, music and more. Downtown businesses stay open late for holiday shopping, offering specials and treats. Wagons rides offered. Fire pits along Broadway will provide opportunities to roast marshmallows and s’mores. Other area events Saturday, Dec. 12 include the TorC Art Hop and the Elephant Butte Luminaria Beachwalk. Alamogordo Christmas Parade — The annual lighted parade begins around 5 p.m., Saturday, Dec. 12, down 10th Street. Hosted by the Alamogordo Chamber of Commerce, the parade includes colorful floats, banners, marching bands and a special visit from Santa Claus. Information: (575) 437-6120. Elephant Beachwalk and Floating Lights parade — Elephant Butte State Park’s 15th annual luminaria walk and parade benefit- ing Make-A-Wish Foundation is 5 to 10 p.m. Saturday, Dec. 12. The parade begins at 6:30 p.m. The event features more than 3,500 lumi- narias, a boat and RV parade, 25 host camp fires, Santa Claus, hayrides, caroling, and lots of hot chocolate, cider and posole for everyone. An awards ceremony and community Christmas party to follow at 9: p.m. at the Elephant Butte Inn. Cost: $5 per car. Information: (575) 740-1777. Fort Selden Luminaria Tours — The 11th annual holiday event at Fort Selden State Monument is 5 to 9 p.m. Saturday, Dec. 12. The trails and ruins of the 19th-century fort will be lit by candles, and visitors will be treated to hot chocolate, cookies and more. Admission is December Roundup Cont’d from Page 8 Page 9 December 2009 El Paso Scene 0esiqaet fabtit haqe datekoase Sale Limited time only 10 AM - 4 PM Fri. & Sat. Nov. 27-28 Dec. 4-5 Dec. 11-12 Dec. 18-19 Closeout designer fabrics & trims $1. 00 Yatd - $6. 00 Yatd II haadteds to tkoose ftom Get name brand designer fabric at extreme discount prices ! Sold by Inside Out Designs Inc. (915) 497-2586 4717 Osborne #200 1 block from Westside Police Station lt·ctc·. G·'t·. .·c· ' .·c'c· 4242 Hondo Pass Suite 104 (at Gateway South) 759-7630 `cv .t lt ·ct c·.! A charm for every heartfeIt moment Hundreds of charms to choose from ... onIy $4. 99 each Please see Page 10 free during the evening. Information: (575) 526-8911. From Las Cruces, take I-25 North to Exit 19. The monument, which preserves the ruins of the 19th century fort, is open 8:30 a.m. to 5 p.m. daily. Admission is $3 (age 16 and under free). ‘Champagne! Chocolate! Art!’ — Temple Beth-El, 3980 Sonoma Springs in Las Cruces, will host an evening featuring works of art in a variety of media created by Jewish artists from Las Cruces and beyond, 4 to 8 p.m. Sunday, Dec. 13. The show will be accompanied by a selection of chocolate good- ies and champagne. Admission: $20. Information: (575) 524-3380 or tbelc.org. Victorian Christmas Evening — The 25th annual event is 4 to 9 p.m. Thursday, Dec. 17, at the Silver City Museum, 312 W. Broadway in the historic H.B. Ailman House. The old-fashioned community celebration fea- tures traditional music, decorations, costumed characters, children’s stories, hot mulled cider, plum pudding and other holiday treats. Admission: $3. Children accompanied by adult free. Information: (575) 538-5921 or silvercity- museum.org. Luminarias and Christmas Carols on the Plaza — Old Mesilla, N.M., turns into a wonderland of music and light beginning at dusk Christmas Eve, Thursday, Dec. 24, at San Albino Church and the surrounding historic plaza. Around 6,000 luminarias will be set up by Los Leones del Mesilla and the Las Cruces High School band, in cooperation with Mesilla merchants. The Mesilla Singers will lead singing of Christmas carols from 5:30 to 7:30 p.m. Friends of the Mesilla Fire Department will hold a candlelight service for public safety and military personnel, their family and friends at 6 p.m. Mesilla is southwest of Las Cruces. Take I-10 West to the Avenida de Mesilla exit. The plaza is off NM Highway 28 (Avenida de Mesilla) south of I-10. Admission is free. Information: (575) 524-3262, ext. 116. Christmas on the Pecos —One of America’s top holiday traditions, the boat tour along the Pecos River runs Nov. 28-Dec. 31, in Carlsbad, N.M. The 17th annual event show- cases the winter wonderland of more than 100 festively decorated houses. Twelve to 15 tours are offered nightly 5:30 to 9:30 p.m. The tours depart from Pecos River Village, which includes a gallery full of Southwestern gifts and refreshments and holiday lights. The George Washington runs Friday and Saturday only. No tours offered Christmas Eve. Tickets: $12.50 ($7.50 age 2-11) Sunday through Thursday, $17.50 ($12.50 age 2-11) Friday and Saturday. Children under 3 years of age are free if sitting on lap. Half length tours are $7. Tickets should be purchased in advance; many dates are sold out. Information: (575) 628-0952 or christmasonthepecos.com. A Calico Christmas arts and crafts show is Friday and Saturday, Nov. 27-28, with a Holiday Stroll and Electric Light Parade is Saturday, Nov. 28. A Sail With Santa event is 7 p.m. Sunday, Dec. 6 and 13. Cost: $15 (reservations required). A special El Paso bus trip to the event is Saturday, Dec. 12, sponsored by El Paso Scene and Si El Paso Tours. Reservations: 541-1308. Mesilla Mercado — Local farmers and mer- chants sell a variety of merchandise at Old Mesilla Plaza, 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. Fridays (begin- ning Oct. 1) and noon to 4 p.m. Sundays. The mercado includes jewelry, wood working, paintings, photos, religious items and clothing. Produce is sold seasonally; summer months are the ideal time to take advantage of the fresh fruits and vegetables. Live music is also fea- tured. Admission is free. Information: Nick Eckert, (575) 524-3262, ext. 104. New Year’s Eve Forum Ballroom New Year’s Eve Dance — Asi Band is featured at the Dec. 31 dance, 8 p.m. to 1 a.m. at The Forum, 3800 Mattox. Cost is $30, which includes party favors, beer and set-ups and menudo at mid- night. Information: 598-4229. Sunland Park New Year’s Eve —El Paso favorite Rhapsody will headline the New Year’s Eve celebration in the Signature Showroom at Sunland Park Racetrack & Casino Thursday, Dec. 31. Dinner offered 7 to 9 p.m. with music and dancing 9 p.m. to 1 a.m. Tickets: $35 (includes dinner buffet, entertain- ment, favors and champagne toasting); $200 table for eight. Tickets available from the track’s Group Sales office or Club Fiesta. Information/reservations: (575) 874-5200. A free party featuring music by Ekiz and party favors is 9 p.m. to 1 a.m. in the Franklin Lounge. No reservations needed. New Year’s Eve Ball — 8 p.m. Thursday, Dec. 31, in the El Paso County Coliseum, 4100 Paisano. Tickets: $35 (Ticketmaster). New Year’s Eve party at Inn of Mountain Gods — Inn of the Mountain Gods Resort and Casino in Mescalero, N.M. will host its New Year’s Eve Celebration begin- ning at 8:30 p.m. Thursday, Dec. 31, featuring live entertainment a New Year’s Eve buffet, and champagne toast at midnight. Tickets: $100. Reservations recommended, seating is limited. Information/reservations: (800) 545- 9011 or (575) 464-7090. Bazaars and fairs Turkish Food and Craft Fair — Raindrop Foundation will host its food and craft fair 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. Saturday, Nov. 28, at Raindrop Turkish House in El Paso, 1445 Bessemer Dr. Suite E-D, featuring authentic Turkish hand crafts. Featured items include Turkish Calligraphy Turkish Art Ebru (paper marbling), glass painting, souvenirs and Turkish food. Admission is free. Information: 633-8853 or raindropturkevi.org/elpaso. St. Thomas Aquinas Christmas Craft Fair — St. Thomas Aquinas Catholic Community Church, 10970 Bywood, will host a Christmas fair 9 a.m. to 7 p.m. Sunday, Nov. 29. Information: Donna Murray, 591-2752. Mission Trail Harvest Market — The first ever market is 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. Sunday, Nov. 29, at Veteran’s Memorial Plaza, 1500 Main Street in San Elizario, with more than 75 vendors selling arts and crafts, fall harvest goods and food. Live entertainment featured in the park gazebo. San Elizario historian Ben Sanchez will lead guided tours of the historical district throughout the day. Admission is free. Information: 594-8424 or MissionTrailArtMarket.com. ‘It’s Beginning to Look A Lot Like Christmas’ Craft Fair — Pebble Hills Elementary School, 11145 Edgemere, hosts its 13th annual holiday arts and crafts fair Saturday, Dec. 5. Sponsored by the Pebble Hills PTO. El Paso Scene Page 10 December 2009 December Roundup Cont’d from Page 9 Please see Page 11 El Paso Scene Page 11 December 2009 c .e.z/.æ.zæ:¬ æ.æ/:, (æ/·q/z ·¬.r·:æ( z, z/æ .·q/z. c¬( .e.¬(. e- z/æ :e.z/.æ.z Cc:e/·¬c )æ:z, <,·:3 ¯e¬·r/c¬ ´´/cc·zc :c¬zc ¹æ - ¬æ>z ze ´czæze` ;i<·:,-<: