Albuquerque, NM

The Laws are husband-and-wife award-winning singer/songwriters from Ontario, Canada. They have recently recorded their 5th CD of original music and have been touring non-stop throughout Canada, the U.S. and Australia since 2000. Their Americana style songs are an acoustic mix of roots country, bluegrass, folk and pop, delivered with The Laws trademark “tight-as-a-glove” harmony singing. John and Michele Law each sing lead and harmony vocals often switching within songs. John is an expert picker on guitar and mandolin and Michele is a solid bass and acoustic guitar rhythm player.

“ …. begins with this languid, swaying, romantic melody that recalls The Everly Brothers in their prime. Yes, the harmonies really are that good. The mandolin and accordion solos are utterly lovely. Michele adds a third vocal part on “Go Easy” and swings lightly in “Put Some Love In It.” John dazzles with his mandolin instrumental “Texacadia.” They both hypnotize you on “Whiskey and Gasoline” and delight you with finger-popping “Getting Over You.” Heartily recommended.”
Robert Oermann, Music Row Magazine

“John and Michele Law’s songs seem to be the lost essence of country music which has now become so commercial and formulaic sounding.” Randy Bachman

“If Gram Parsons married Alison Krauss their music would sound a lot like John and Michele.” Willie P Bennett
www.thelaws.ca

WEDNESDAY AUGUST 13 7:30 $32 ADVANCE / $36 DOOR
A THIRSTY EAR PRE-EVENT - FEATURING
THE
TAJ MAHAL
TRIO

Taj Mahal is a singer, multi-instrumentalist, composer, ethnomusicologist, Grammy-winner, world-class musical collaborator, musicians’ advocate, fisherman & cigar aficionado. Taj has been playing his own distinctive brand of music - variously described as Afro-Caribbean blues, folk-world-blues, hula blues & folk-funk. Caribbean, Hawaiian, African, Latin, and Cuban sounds mix with folk, jazz, zydeco, gospel, rock, pop, soul, and R&B, layered on top of a country blues foundation. www.tajblues

FRIDAY AUGUST 15 8 PM $10
GREEN MOUNTAIN GRASS

Live acoustic gonzograss from Austin, TX! Eclectic melodies, creative harmonies, explosive jams, and a thoroghly danceable experience. The four band members in GREEN MOUNTAIN GRASS are Dave Wilmoth (29, mandolin), Adam “Pickles” Moss (24, fiddle), Trevor Smith (18, banjo/guitar), and Jesse Dalton (25, upright bass). Together, they are exploring the sounds of traditional bluegrass, gypsy swing, folk, funk, reggae, and jazz to discover their own genre-bending sound. While some listeners haven taken to calling this sound “gonzograss,” the end result is described by the band as “melodic, harmonic, and rhythmic mastery with elements of sarcasm, quotes, humor, and exaggeration.”
Whether they are in front of an attentive listening-room audience, on a tall stage playing to a throng of sun-baked festival-goers, or in a local venue orchestrating a gonzograss dance party for their fans, something exciting and inspiring is always being created. www.myspce.com/greengrassplayers
Saturday August 16 8 PM $5
NO GO KNOW

Tropical concrete zouk space rock direct from Portland, Ore.!www.myspace.com/nogoknow

SUNDAY AUGUST 17 6 PM $30 ADVANCE / $35 DOOR
TOOTS & the MAYTALS

WITH SPECIAL GUESTS
I Y A H
Toots and the Maytals are legends of ska and reggae music. Their sound is an original combination of gospel, ska, soul, reggae and rock, led by Frederick “Toots” Hibbert. The band won the 2005 Grammy award for best reggae album True Love, an album consisting of re-recorded versions of their classics alongside musicians such as Bonnie Raitt, Willie Nelson, Eric Clapton, and Keith Richards, as well as popular artists today such as No Doubt, Ben Harper, The Roots, & Shaggy. www.tootasandthemaytals.com

TICKETS ARE ON SALE NOW FOR THESE GREAT SHOWS AT THE PUB & GRILL!
The TAJ MAJAL TRIO WED AUG 13
TOOTS AND THE MAYTALS with Iyah SUN AUG 17
RECKLESS KELLY with SPECIAL GUEST tba THURS AUG 21
JJ GREY & MOFRO with the Hill Country Revue TUES SEPT 9
JOHN HIATT & the AGELESS BEAUTIES with the Sean Healen Duo WED SEPT 10
The SKATALITES TUES OCT 14
PICK UP YOUR TICKETS TODAY AT THE PUB & GRILL AT THE SFBC,
THE LENSIC BOX OFFICE 505.988.1234, OR ORDER ONLINE AT www.ticketssantafe.com

TUESDAY JUNE 24 8 PM $12 ADVANCE / $15 DOOR
THE GRAND ARCHIVES
WITH SPECIAL GUEST
SERA CAHOONE

WARM ILLUMINATED POP
Seattle-based Grand Archives is an indie rock band featuring five male vocalists. Mat Brooke, co-founder of softcore cult-favorites Carissa’s Weird started Grand Archives with a trio of friends in September, 2006. Drummer Curtis Hall (The Jeunes), bassist Jeff Montano (The New Mexicans), and guitarist/keyboard player Ron Lewis (Ghost Stories). The band was picked to support Modest Mouse on west-coast tour dates, and Sub Pop had signed the band for a full-length album.

WEDNESDAY JUNE 25 7 PM No Cover
OPEN MIC. NIGHT-HOSTED BY JASON REED
Singers, songwriters, musicians all welcome!
www.myspace.com/sfbcopenmic

THURSDAY JUNE 26 7:30 PM $10
ELEPHANT REVIVAL

Neo acoustic glyptic revival! www.myspace.com/elephantrevival
MY TEA KIND

An obscure folk rock infusion that is new and fun!
www.myteakind.com

FRIDAY JUNE 27 8 PM $10
TAJ WEEKES & ADOWA

Taj Weekes & Adowa present a brand new experience in classic roots reggae.
With wry trenchant lyrics, a haunting dusky quiver in his voice and the knock-down sound of his band Adowa, Taj has managed to weave a rare social consciousness with an unforgettable reggae groove.
www.tajandadowa.com

SATURDAY JUNE 28 7:30 $10 / $15
GREG ABATE
With THE PETE AMAHL TRIO

Grammy-nominated global jazz sax player
and recording artist extraordinaire!
www.gregabate.com

SUNDAY JUNE 29 3-6 PM BY DONATION
WHITE BUFFALO PRESENTS
SUNDAY AFTERNOON JAM ON THE PATIO
BENEFITTING THE MUSICIANS EMERGENCY RELIEF FUND
ALL MUSICIANS WELCOME!

SUNDAY JUNE 29 7 PM $5
SYD MASTERS & the SWING RIDERS

VINTAGE COWBOY WESTERN SWING
www.gregabate.com

PLEASE HELP IF YOU CAN!

On June 1st of this year, 29 year old Tina Beltran sadly died in a river accident on the Colorado River. Tina was a “Super” mom, loving daughter, sister, granddaughter, amazing friend, and above all a lively soul that will never be forgotton.
A savings account has been established for Tina’s 12 year old daughter Diamar Beltran-Taylor to help her with college fund and her future. Donations can be made at any branch of the Bank of America to “Jane Beltran” (last 4 digits 8468), Tina’s mom, Diamar’s grandmother.
Thanks for anything you can do!

UPCOMING AT THE PUB AND GRILL
MONDAY JUNE 30 7-9 PM No Cover - Donations Appreciated
The SANTA FE
GREAT BIG JAZZ BAND
WEDNESDAY JULY 2 7 PM No Cover
OPEN MIC. NIGHT HOSTED BY JASON REED
THURSDAY JULY 3 $10 / $15
REVEREND PEYTON’S BIG DAMN BAND
FRIDAY JULY 4 7 PM $20 ADVANCE/$25 DOOR
LEON RUSSELL

I had to double check the Los Mayas website, because the menu was significantly different than a few years ago. Originally the restaurant had more Caribean and Guatamalen food. We arrived at the Restaurant at about 7Pm with our 2 for 1 coupon. The coupon was great as it was useable 7 days a week. At first Pat was concerned about the menu being pricey, but I reminded her that we would have plenty of food, chips and salsa were included, and we had our coupon. It was one of the recent events where we actually stayed in our old dinner average. Simply put: we had 2 meals with plenty of leftovers for $9 each plus tip. Service was good, and the food excellent.

We also received great service, when we arrived. There was a long line, and we nearly walked away when I suggested we check how long the wait would be. A waitress looked around and saw a couple of tables for 2 available and we were seated in about 5 minutes. The restaurant and patio were packed and very busy: this is Memorial Day Weekend, Sunday evening. Since we were both hungry: excellente!

Everything changed when Victor Alvarez and his trio got up to play. We were on the “patio” which has a roof and is enclosed by a coyote fence. The cool evening air felt refreshing, yet there were no street distractions thanks to an adobe wall streetside. Pat’s face relaxed when she realized that we were going to have music. I said to her, so where can we get all thisand have a coupon. She agreed.

Victor Alvarez had a trio tonight. A bongo and other similar drums and the drummer set a rhytum and a handsome bassist outlined a most exquiste bass. Victor was the entertainer and plays a dlectable Mandolin. He did the singing, the talking and loved to make the ladies smile. “Thank you, Thank you, You have such good taste”, he’d say after a round of significant. Diners droped their forks nearly in unison to be able to applaud.

I particularly enjoyed the complex and quick fingering that produced multiple melodies and changes with fluid ease. I stopped eating and talking just to watch the fingers create webs fast than a master spider could. All this on a Mandolin: impressive. Very festive and light. Al this embellished by his suave Latin character.

Still lost a large part of that post. Perhaps tomorrow, I’ll reconstruct. My apologies… you can always go to www.savormusic.com or t he previous blog for additional information.

Savor music includes several additional notable musicians too. Go the site for information. I included the three that I heard Sunday evening at Los Mayas. (See schedule information on previous blog or on their site.) These guys also are impressive by the schedule they keep. Many musicians complain about the difficulty of finding steady work in Santa Fe. Look at their schedule: they are busy!

VICTOR ALVAREZ:Cuban born award-winning mandolinist and guitarist, Victor has traveled the world with his salsa orchestra The LA Express. He has recorded under the labels of AAPA and North to South. Victor sings and plays mandolin as a Cuban laud and also plays guitar with Savor. (1)

Re: Cuban laud: [edit] Cuban laúd
There is also a Cuban laúd. Famously played by Barbarito Torres with the Buena Vista Social Club. It has the same appearance as the Spanish version only the tuning is different. The Cuban tuning is: D, A, E, B, F#, C# (or D).

DIEGO MAESTAS: Originally from New Mexico but having lived in other parts of the United States, Diego has dedicated his life to music. Mainly a player of the traditional drum set, Diego also delved into learning Latin percussion as well. Having spent many years perfecting his skills and knowledge of the basic Son Bolero and Batáconga patterns, he also shines on timbales. Diego was a “drop-in” of Habana State U’ he actually droped in now and then.( 5)

MARCO TOPO: This Italian born bass player is a graduate of Habana State U’. His many years of study and his many years of experience playing in a variety of jazz and blues bands have forged his solid musical personality. Upon meeting Victor and learning more about Cuban music, Marco has made it his new musical mission to master Cuban rhythm on the bass. (6)

Their story also opens our eyes and brings us the enjoyment from a nearby country that few of us can go see. We are truly blessed in Santa Fe. Here’s more info from their website.

SAVOR was started by Cuban born Victor Alavarez about seven years ago. He and his wife Nanette were both seasoned musicians long before moving to New Mexico having paid their musical dues while living in Houston, Texas for many years.

From his days as a soloist, combo mando-man, music minstrel and Latin big band leader back in Houston, Victor had always wanted to get back to his Cuban roots by playing the songs that he had grown up hearing in his native Havana. After leaving the big band scene in the big city, he and Nanette moved to New Mexico. It was not long before Victor realized that his heart yearned to express his Cuban roots through his talent as a mandolin player of thirty years.

The group started off as a quartet playing a variety of Latin tunes. The quartet included Victor on Mandolin and guitar and Nanette on ‘Lola’, the acoustic bass. After a few years of gigging, they recorded an album entitled “Muévete con Savor” in 2002.

Over the next few years, members came and went, but Victor and Nanette kept the group together. Though the group did play some Cuban songs, Victor was determined to follow his dream of playing more of a Cuban repertoire for audiences to learn about and enjoy Cuba’s often forgotten and underestimated contribution to Latin music.

In late summer of 2005, our Havana native began to find musicians that shared in his musical vision. The addition of New Mexico native drummer and percussionist J.J. Oviedo marked a turning point with the group. In early 2006, Victor, Nanette, and J.J. recorded a live album called “Savor: a taste of Cuba.” Soon, other friends and musicians came to Victor’s aide. With the addition of such musicians as Venezuelan born bassist and guitarist Ivan Castillo and later Cuban native and seasoned percussionist René Navaro, Victor found himself the desired and potent recipe for his music. Currently, the group performs as a trio or quartet that includes, but is not limited to: Mandolin, guitar, requinto guitar, acoustic/electric bass and various percussion instruments mostly comprised of bongos, congas, cowbell, and maracas. The music that the group performs includes Cuban and Afro-Cuban songs and rhythms based on the original Cuban ‘Son’; which is the grandfather of modern ‘Salsa’ rhythms. The music is performed in an informal street-like manner, making it raw and infectiously dance-able. In addition, SAVOR’s repertoire includes many other Latin American and Spanish songs for the eclectic and Latin hungry taste. The group that fans and music lovers now see performing in many venues in Santa Fe and Española is the product of several years of hard work and dedication to a personal quest of homage to Cuban music. We invite all who find themselves curious about Cuban rhythms and Cuba’s music to come out and hear us and party with us like on the streets of Habana Vieja!

Have some fun and party often around the town.

Blogsville: about-tulsaok.com
www.about-chicagoil.com
www.myitthings.com/photoqueen
(ala Mary MacIntyre) Please come and read my column and vote your opinion.

I had to double check the Los Mayas website, because the menu was significantly different than a few years ago. Originally the restaurant had more Caribean and Guatamalen food. We arrived at the Restaurant at about 7Pm with our 2 for 1 coupon. The coupon was great as it was useable 7 days a week. At first Pat was concerned about the menu being pricey, but I reminded her that we would have plenty of food, chips and salsa were included, and we had our coupon. It was one of the recent events where we actually stayed in our old dinner average. Simply put: we had 2 meals with plenty of leftovers for $9 each plus tip. Service was good, and the food excellent.

We also received great service, when we arrived. There was a long line, and we nearly walked away when I suggested we check how long the wait would be. A waitress looked around and saw a couple of tables for 2 available and we were seated in about 5 minutes. The restaurant and patio were packed and very busy: this is Memorial Day Weekend, Sunday evening. Since we were both hungry: excelente!

Everything changed when Victor Alvarez and his trio got up to play. We were on the “patio” which has a roof and is enclosed by a coyote fence. The cool evening air felt refreshing, yet there were no street distractions thanks to an adobe wall streetside. Pat’s face relaxed when she realized that we were going to have music. I said to her, so where can we get all thisand have a coupon. She agreed.

Victor Alvarez had a trio tonight. A bongo and other similar drums and the drummer set a rhytum and a handsome bassist outlined a most exquiste bass. Victor was the entertainer and plays a dlectable Mandolin. He did the singing, the talking and loved to make the ladies smile. “Thank you, Thank you, You have such good taste”, he’d say after a round of significant. Diners droped their forks nearly in unison to be able to applaud.

Strange day and I already have so much to do tomorrow, including an early appointment. I hate getting going too early, but it’ll help set the pace for the day.

Quick restaurant review: Joe’s Diner. I wanted to go to Harry’s for dinner. Pat, poor soul is still suffering from a cold and thus is easily irritated, and probably didn’t even see the landscape full of spring ride. No parking at Harry’s and a long line, I said let’s go elsewhere. Drove up to the Steakhouse: ditto. She wouldn’t be up for a long wait, the crowds or noise. A woman from te spa, probably 50 or older, blond hair shoulder length, bright red lipstick, skinny 5′7″, wearing rubber foam flips and a wihite medium length terry cloth robe crossed the parking lot. Was she smoking a cigeratee too? Meanwhile everyone and all the cars were dressed to high style fashion suits and dresses: a la de da those who can will spend a lot for the best were there. The scene amplified grays and then the white white bathrobe blond hilarious! A movie set for…???? We left.

Taking a deep breath I said,”Joe’s Diner?” Pat said, “Yes”. Got to Joe’s and was seated immediately. Waiter initially was attentive. We relaxed a little. Of course first I had to ask for another booth, and Pat grouchily and somewhat loudly said,”WHY?!” I told her I would explain in a moment. We sat down, and i told her about the three generation family with little kids next to where they wanted to seat us. I wasn’t up to the noise. She said,”Oh good, I’m not either.”

Joe’s Diner, is a small restaurant in a residential area. Tonight they were not busy. Last time they were not busy. I hope sometime they ARE busy. Roland has done a great job blending a 50’s style cafe with and elegant artsy menu and decor. He buys local food and wine when possible. He is very particular when he is there, he wasn’t there. Pat said the service was good when I kept the guy in order. Hey, he was busy and I could see Pat’s order getting cold waiting. Last time we had cold food, I asked a blond hair mid 40’s lady if she would get it for us. The chef and she argued, but she did bring Pat her order. I explained why we were concerned. The waiter returned, apologized and brought my meal soon after.

Pat, diabetic was hungry and enjoyed that her food was hot, cooked as she ordered, and fresh. I enjoyed mine also, it was a unique vegetable lasangna. Very little pasta, lots of veggies, a mozeralla (fresh) and another cheese mix lots of it, OK sauce, good size portion. We had to ask for refills. We had to ask for more bread, and he brought one breadstick.

So, this ain’t the greatest review. We spent $30. Used to be able to eat there for less. Hey, at least Joe’s Diner is back on our OK list. Go when Roalnd is there: the place sings then. So the waiter was preoccupied with our departure. He barely could handle the few diners he had!

Our food was fine and hot. We got to first base. Joe’s Diner in on Rodeo Rd.

Got home and it was still warm. I looked out at the stars and the half moon. Aprreciated the porch while Gray Cat got a chance to play outside. Sat on the hammock and used it as a slow swing. Earlier in the day ate strawberries and enjoyed the sun as a break from the computer.
Life is good. Gotta go.

www.about-chicagoil.com
www.about-sanfranciscoca.com
www.about-seattlewa.com

It is not a Greek Restaurant. In fact it is owned by Sammy who is of Arabic descent. I met a friend there, he came in after I ordered, and we talked awhile. Sammy used to work near a studio he had and now Sammy and his family have started the restaurant. It’s a simple cafe with photos on the wall. The menu includes many Middle Eastern dishes at reasonable prices.

A teenage girl took my order and was astounded with my minimalist order. Are you sure she said! I tried the small Fatayer (Spiced spinach pie) 2 pieces were $2.99. Each piece was fairly small and improved when I used hot sauce and olive oil to dip them in. I also purchased Baklava with pinon nuts for $1.75 (very small). I told her it was a snack.

My friend Bobby said the Lamb sandwich is very good and the spices they use are delicate and make all the difference. Perhaps he was referring to the Shwarma that has 80% Beef and 20% lamb for $8.78.

My teacher said that she and her husband ate dinner for $20 for the two of them. I could have easily spent $15.00 on various items that were inviting. Still, knowing that you could eat for under $5.00 for a light lunch is great. There’s just so many options.

Service was good and the family is friendly. It’s another great neighborhood find. Tourists stop by. They use fresh ingredients, provide healthy food, and it’s all homemade. They are open 10AM to 10 PM. 505 989 3444. They also do catering. Closed on Sundays.

Unrelated music:

I couldn’t copy much from the Amavi restaurant site. So go visit. I don’t know much about the history, Julian’s a famous northern Italian restaurant has disappeared, and been replaced by AMAVI (loose translation: the love of life).

In July, Heather and David Sellers bought the 18-year-old Julian’s Restaurant just southeast of Santa Fe’s main plaza and converted it into Amavi, a 110-seat restaurant that serves chef David Sellers’ Mediterranean cuisine. (Same Chef Sellers who is doing the TV clips on Alburquerque TV, see older blog)

The Sellerses remodeled the bar area and added 28 seats.

“There is an upcoming scene for people wanting more classy, sophisticated bars where they can get appetizers and hang out,” Heather Sellers said. “We also do full dinners in there as well.
Check averages range from $60 to $70 per person.

“It’s unique in that there are not many fine-dining Mediterranean cuisine restaurants here,” she said. (Heather Sellers)

The Sellerses had worked at the city’s Santacafe restaurant.

Santa Fe, which relies on state government and tourism as its major industries, can pose challenges, Heather Sellers said.

“The business can be seasonal, but your goal is to try to attract local diners so they keep coming all year-round,” she said. “I see dining in Santa Fe only going up.” Heather Sellers.

So there’s some of the scoop. Sellers bought Julian’s. I was a bit apprehensive about who had replaced one of my favorite restaurants. I had a back up plan in case it was too expensive. Once Pat saw the menu, she was determined to stay. She told me cost was not an issue. She had informed me earlier that my birthday dinner needed to be “fancy”. The remodel was bright and cheery. I enjoyed the art on the walls. We were early, but ready to be relaxed, which surprized our waitress. We had waited and reviewed the menu before being seated, and an elegant young man Andrew described the menu with enchanted finesse, We floated away on savory fantasies. It turns out he is the bartender.

We were escorted to our table near what used to be a fireplace (it was having problems and had candles in it instead). A Sultry but pleasant tall blond was our waitress. Pat enjoyed the service but I was less impressed. There was no pizazz, or extra service, we ordered, food was delivered, no recommendations were made, nor followup. She ignored my first request for extra bread, but heard the second request. Pat mistakenly undertipped her, but I told her it was OK.

However, the food: from bread to our cheese plate appetizer was incredible. Read about the cheese below. They were so rich. We had a rhubarb jam and apricot jam neither were too sweet (good) more like a thick fruit puree. I was most delighted and impressed.

Pat had Chicken under a brick. I missed the brick connection, but the half chicken was goregous and sumpteous in look. Pat was captured in estacy, and being a fussy gourmet cook, she really relished a fine meal. I asked for a quote, but it did not make grammatcial sense. “The food surpassed the ambiance and…” This was a very exquisite slice of life might be one translation.

I missed the part where my Scallops and Linguine had “Italian Bacon” and had to send it back. The waitress was confounded that I didn’t know, and when the meal returned it was lukewarm,less pasta, and still exceptional. This may sound like a misnomer. Yes there were contradictions, one less scallop, but the seasoning and preparation were still astonishing. I come from back east and am not easily pleased when it comes to scallops. These melted in my mouth.

Perhaps I should have ordered the sea bass, see below. I asked 2 gentlemen who were from California how their meals were. Rave reviews. One fellow commented it was the best sea bass he ever had. The other gentleman had scallops as I had, and his pasta was a perfect adente. Their wine also fit their meal exquisitely. Martin Codax Albarino 2006 (reasonably priced).

We both had dessert, my mocha brulet wasn’t a hit with me, yet Pat loved hers, however the dessert she chose (we split ours to share) was the most delicious not over done layered dessert I think I ever had. Light, creamy, multi-textured, a light cracker crumb crust, rich but not heavy chocolate, peanuts crumbled on top. Coffee, tea and dessert, made the bill soar.

The bar seemed to have a classy fine feel.

This is a great restaurant but several steps down from it’s predcessor. Service does not compare. Food has it’s elegance but does not surpass what Julian’s did. Alas. I definitely had a wonderful time. A few years back, with appetizers, 1 or 2 bottles of wine, salads, 2 main course meals, maybe soup, 2 desserts, a friend and I had a $120 meal. Now, Less for more, with less service.

However it is unfair to compare a new restaurant to the old. There are 2 Italian restaurants in town that I would rate higher. One much less expensive. However Mr Sellers brings some Spanish and French cuisine to his dining experience…which will be good. If we were giving stars, I’d say a 3.5. Pat and the gentlemen would probably say “5″!!! Fair is fair. He also is committed to bringing seasonal and local food to the restaurant. I missed the impact of that (what was seasonal? Did the wine come from one of many NM wineries?)

Yet, all in all, we had a festive time, a very special treat, great ambiance, and I wish them well. read on:

Tonight’s menu was slightly different.
First Courses
Roasted Tomato and Fennel Soup
with Olive Tapenade Crostini
8
Xato de Tarragona:
Marinated White Anchovy and Tuna Confit
with Frisee, Hazelnuts, Olives, and Sherry Vinaigrette
12
Caesar Salad: Romaine Lettuce with Garlic Croutons, Anchovy
and Reggiano Cheese
11
Mussel, Sea Bass, and Spinach Gratin
with Bechamel, Bread Crumbs and Toasted Baguette
13
Artisanal Cheese Plate Featuring Featuring Mediterranean Cheeses:
El Porfiao Sheep’s Milk Camembert, Manchego and Gorgonzola Dolce
12
Dungeness Crab and Alaskan Cod Napoleon
with Puff Pastry and Bearnaise
13
Galisteo Talus Wind Ranch Lamb and Feta Cheese Turnovers
with Mint, Oregano and Roasted Beet-Fennel Salad
12
Friuli, Italy
Gorgonzola Dolce Arancini with Arugula, Balsamic
Vinaigrette and Green Apples
11
Giovanni Puiatti “Zuccole” Pinot Grigio 2005
12
Bourgogne, France
Pan Roasted Breast of Squab with Lentils,
Roast Garlic and Morel Mushrooms
12
Vincent Giradin Cuvee St. Vincent 2005
14

KRQE-TV/CBS Channel 13 offers preview of the incredible
culinary talent participating in the Santa Fe Chamber
Music Festival’s 36th Season Opening Gala

The Santa Fe Chamber Music Festival doesn’t officially open its 36th season until July 17, 2008 with the 2nd Annual Chefs’ Gala benefit at the Scottish Rite Center in Santa Fe, New Mexico, but audiences around the state can catch a sneak peak of part of the opening festivities between now and the Festival’s gala. KRQE-TV’s morning news program on CBS Channel 13 is presenting 17 weeks of cooking segments featuring chefs from Northern New Mexico who are creating unique, four-course menus for this exceptional event.

Airing Mondays between 5:00 and 7:00 am (check local listings for time), the program will spotlight one chef/restaurant per week. Although the actual menus for the gala are a secret until they are unveiled that night, audiences will have the chance to see these culinary stars at work as they give a brief cooking lesson and prepare a delicious dish served at their restaurant that audiences can prepare at home. The mouth-watering creations include Seared Tuna and Sesame Seed; Sautéed Tiger Shrimp with Caramelized Garlic, Shallots, Smoked Pimenton and Manzanilla Sherry; Seasonal Mushroom Mixiote; Julia Child’s version of a Caesar Salad; Dungeness Crab Cakes with Celery Root, Apple Remoulade and Meyer Lemon Aioli, and Apricot Chipotle Glazed Colorado Lamb with Goat Cheese, Potato Puree and Thyme Lamb Jus, to name just a few. All of the recipes are also available at the station’s website www.krqe.com.

Culinary stars of the Santa Fe Chamber Music Festival’s 2nd Annual Chefs’ Gala that can be seen on KRQE-TV include (in alphabetical order):

Chef James Campbell Caruso of La Boca
Chef Patrick Kline of Amaya

Chef Joel Coleman of Mauka
Chef Kim Müller of La Mancha at Galisteo Inn

Chef Brian Cooper of Baleen
Chef Martin Rios of Inn of the Anasazi

Chef Eric DeStefano of Coyote Café
Chef Patrick Gharrity of La Casa Sena

Chef Luis Rivera of Fusion/32 Steps
Chef David Sellers of Amavi

Chef Xavier Grenet of Ristra
Chef Enrique Guerrero of O Eating House

Chef Eugene Staples of The Old House
Chef Charles Thompson of Geronimo

Chef Jennifer James of Chef du Jour
Chef Dave Charles The Terra Restaurant at Encantado

Chef Mark Kiffin of The Compound

Chaired this year by Nancy Jacobs, Festival board member, and Toni Zavistovski, board president, the Santa Fe Chamber Music Festival’s season opening 2nd Annual Chefs’ Gala will be coordinated once again by Corey Fidler, food and beverage director at the Hotel Santa Fe. The festive evening begins at 6:00 pm on Thursday, July 17, 2008 with an intimate performance by two of the Festival’s renowned artists, cellist Lynn Harrell and pianist Yuja Wang. Following the concert, guests will enjoy cocktails and hors d’oeuvres in the courtyard, catered by Adobo, Las Campanas, Peas ‘n’ Pod, and Torino’s. They will then proceed to the dining hall for a tantalizing culinary composition featuring uniquely decorated tables of 10, each with its own individual four- course dinner menu created and prepared by the some of the top chefs/restaurants in Northern New Mexico.
The 2nd Annual Chefs’ Gala is held at the Scottish Rite Center. Built in the early 1900’s and on the Historical Buildings register, the famous “pink” structure boasts a beautiful theater with 69 hand-painted theater sets, where the concert is held, a spacious and airy ballroom where the dinner is held and a lovely outside courtyard, where guests will enjoy cocktails and hors d’oeuvres following the evening’s performance.

Restaurant Locations

Amavi 221 Shelby Street, Santa Fe, NM
Amaya 1501 Paseo de Paralta Santa Fe, NM
Baleen at Hotel Santa Fe 211 Old Santa Fe Trail, Santa Fe, NM
Chef du Jour 1720 Ridgecrest Drive, SE, Albuquerque, NM
Coyote Café 132 Water, Santa Fe, NM
Fusion/32 Steps 135 Palace Avenue, Santa Fe, NM
Geronimo 724 Canyon Road, Santa Fe, NM
Inn of the Anasazi 113 Washington Avenue, Santa Fe, NM
La Boca 72 West Marcy, Santa Fe, NM
La Casa Sena 125 E. Palace #20, Santa Fe, NM
La Mancha 9 La Vega, Galisteo, NM
Mauka Restaurant 54B Aqua Fria, Santa Fe, NM
O Eating House 78 Cities of Gold Road, Santa Fe, NM
Rancho de San Juan U.S. Highway 285, Espanola, NM
Ristra 548 Auqa Fria, Santa Fe, NM
The Compound 653 Canyon Road, Santa Fe, NM
The Old House, Eldorado Hotel & Spa 309 W. San Francisco, Santa Fe, NM
The Terra Restaurant at Encantado 198 State Road 592, Santa Fe, NM

For additional information on the on the Gala or the Festival, please visit www.santafechambermusic.com

Nice to have the Restaurant list too. This gives you the chance to do some of your own research as as well or just be lazy and dine out a few times!

Also beware, KSFR radio springtime fundraiser is just around the corner. Nothing stopping you from donating early at KSFR.org.

blogsville:www.countryheraldmusic.com
www.myitthings.com/photoqueen
www.earthlygardens.com

The lovely gardens they relaxed in, in Albuquerque NM and Santa Fe, and Taos.

The long and gorgeous ride along the Rio Grande up to Taos.

The summer Indian Dances at Pojaque Pueblo.

The great pub with local jazz musicans.

The three affordable NM Casino concerts in and out of Albuquerque.

The night at the Opera where they volunteered and ushered at the show and got to see it for free. The party that followed where they had extensive chats with the aprrentices.

Camping in the national forests, and the coyote visitor.

Yes there is more stuff to do in a 30 mile radius of most towns here than most often imagine. Santa Fe Sierra Club has a book dedicated to day hikes in Santa Fe. Many miss the wonderous tour and dinner at Santa Clara Pueblo and fewer still know about their campground magnificant! It might do good to talk to someone like me to discover secret places in New Mexico.

NOW FOR SOME VIDEOS: ( but first: have you made a scrapbook from your last trip? Turned it into a slide show? Then check this out:Create a free Smilebox scrapbook in 5 minutes. Just drag photos into amazing e-designs. Email them free.

Also read the previous 10 question blog!

Want to see more? Go to Youtube.com and do a search for Road Trips New Mexico. Start on page 2.

Greetings from everyone at the
SANTA FE BREWING COMPANY
The Santa Fe Brewing Company had a great year! We would like to thank you all for your support, and we look forward to a great 2008! This coming year is special for us at the SFBC; The brewery was founded nearly 20 years ago, in 1988, in a converted horse barn in Galisteo, New Mexico . We have come a long way since then, producing the finest craft beer we possibly can, expanding our area of distribution, and continuing to meet the growing demand for our products. The SFBC has grown almost 500% since then, and we enjoyed an increase of almost 50% in 2007 over 2006!

We are excited to announce that will be coming out with a mixed 12 pack towards the end of this month that will include 3 SFBC Pale Ale, 3 SFBC Nut Brown, 3 SFBC Wheat, and 3 SFBC State Pen Porter. This sampler makes a great gift for the beer-lovers in your life! Look for it at all your favorite retailers, or request it if you do not see it.

The SFBC will also be releasing the first of our SFBC “Big Beers” as part of the celebration off our 20th Anniversary year. This first of several planned special editions will be the SFBC Imperial State Pen Porter, due to be released at the very end of January, or first week in February. It will be a limited release of only 300 or so cases, bottled in Champagne bottles. At 10% alcohol they will go fast, and when they are gone they are gone, so be get your collectors edition bottle as soon as they become available.

Join us for the first of our monthly Free Film Series!
Tuesday, January 8, 2008
FORMOSA

FREE Film Night - IN THE TASTING ROOM
Shown in the balcony of the Santa Fe Brewing Company Tasting Room with screening equipment donated by The Candyman.
Synopsis: Albuquerque, New Mexico, 1951. Sid Silver (Steven Gilborn) has a problem: his social guidance films aren’t working anymore. The teens of the ’50s are going hog wild and Sid can no longer reach them. Clay Crawford (Jamieson Stern) also has a problem. He’s on the run from the law and trying to make it to California to find a man who may be his father. A grizzled bounty hunter named Lucky (Geoffrey Lewis) is hot on Clay’s trail. Sid and Clay cross paths in the hot desert winds of New Mexico. Sid’s daughter Anne-Marie (Jessica Kiper) begins to fall for Clay to the dismay of her fiancé, Ted (Clayton Rohner) who also bankrolls Sid’s films. The fates of Formosa Studios and perhaps New Mexico itself hang in the balance.
Technical Specifications:
Feature, runtime 86 Minutes, Color & B/W, USA
Genre: Comedy/Period Piece
7 PM-FREE!
www.formosamovie.com

HAPPY NEW YEAR!

For more information on us, please check out our web site at:
www.santafebrewing.com

SEE YOU SOON AT THE
SANTA FE BREWING COMPANY!
PLEASE FORWRD THIS E-MAIL TO ANYONE YOU THINK MIGHT ENJOY IT!

Blogsville: www/about-tulsaok.com
www.about-washingtondc.com

The SFBC PUB & GRILL WILL BE
CLOSED FOR THE HOLIDAYS

Friday, December 28, 2007
The OVERMAN FAMILY TRIO

Join the Overman Family Trio for a great night of folk and bluegrass, featuring Dennis on guitar and vocals, Gretchen on vocals, and Ian on banjo and vocals. Be sure to pick up a copy of their great new CD a Cerrillos Islanders !
7:30 PM-ALL AGES-$5 Cover.

Saturday, December 29, 2007
The DOROTHY BOYS

It isn’t very often that you find three women in one band, who each contribute enough personality, musicianship, and high-energy to command a live rock performance that has kept their fans loyal and converted newcomers. On stage, Dorothy Boys (formerly “Echoset”) is both passionate and playful; off stage, the band boasts mutual respect and hard work. Beth Puorro (vocals, guitar), Rae Goldring (bass), Sarah Glynn (lead guitar, vocals), and Dena Gerbrecht (drums) all agree that Dorothy Boys is much greater than the sum of its parts. And this isn’t too surprising given the four band mates have also been longtime friends.
Since its formation in 2000, the Austin, TX band has consistently been voted one of Austin’s best live bands in the Austin Chronicle’s annual poll, and when it comes to touring, the band works tirelessly and is proud of its growing fan bases in national markets, including Portland, San Francisco, and Los Angeles.
7:30 PM-ALL AGES-$5
www.echoset.com

Sunday, December 30, 2007
REBECCA OWEN
& OPEN ROAD

It feels like getting to take bubble baths and eat candy for a living.!”
…Is Rebecca Owen’s description of her life as a country artist. And whether she is opening for Grammy Nominees Little Big Town or Lorrie Morgan, or singing the National Anthem to open one of many high profile national sporting events; hosting TV shows, or winning talent competitions across the nation, Rebecca will be tackling every performance with the stamina and work ethic of a born winner, mixed with the joyful exuberance of a child at cherished play.
Rebecca finished her senior year at Tulane University, packed up and moved to Albuquerque, New Mexico just one week before Hurricane Katrina devastated the town where she grew up. Having dodged that bullet, she decided to place herself on the firing line of show business by winning the Colgate Country Showdown at three levels, going on to open for Rick Trevino at Sky City. But our girl is no new-comer to the “biz.” She’s already won a statewide Louisiana talent contest, headlined a concert at the 2007 New Mexico State Fair, and has a list of national television and stage credits that belie her tender age.
And as for vocal ability and stage presence? Rebecca sports over a three octave vocal range that can melt hearts with its intimacy and sweet sultry tones. Then in the blink of an eye, she can turn into a wild child who can wail and rock the place like a road house hottie. She has her audiences welling up with tears, rocking in the aisles and on the dance floor, and leaving the rafters ringing with one standing ovation after another. Watch out for Rebecca Owen! This amazing young singer is bound to be the brightest star on today’s industry horizon.
6:30 PM-ALL AGES-$5
www.myspace.com/rebeccaowencountry

JUST ONE WEEK FROM TODAY!

Monday, December 31, 2007
JOE KING CARRASCO!
The SFBC Pub & Grill
New Year’s Eve Party!
CELEBRATE NEW YEAR’S EVE
SANTA FE STYLE!

8 PM-ALL AGES-$10 ADVANCE $15 DOOR
CHAMPAGNE TOAST AT MIDNIGHT
SILLY HATS AND MORE!
AY-YI-YI-YI!
www.joeking.com

THANKS TO ALL OF YOU FOR SUPPORTING
LIVE MUSIC IN SANTA FE!
WE WILL CONTINUE TO STRIVE TO BRING YOU
THE BEST IN LOCAL, REGIONAL, NATIONAL, AND INTERNATIONAL MUSIC!
We realize there’s a lot of live music to choose from out there; we thank you all for your continued patronage and support, and look forward to seeing you soon at the SFBC Pub & Grill! If you don’t come here, please go see live music somewhere!

For more information on us, please check out our web site at:
www.santafebrewing.com

The good news: Mostly is above. Whilst I was beginning what I thought would be a quiet Christmas Eve Day at home, I got 3 calls which all changed this week’s plans. A gallery called about needing work from a client. I tried to postpone the job which wasn’t suppose to happen even. However these matters are delicate, and my friend was about to be blasted by her boss, and I gave in, although made it clear the rest would have to wait until my client returns in the spring. So I had to rush on out and then I find out that she didn’t need it actually to after Christmas, but her boss was in a “twit” (my words) and wanted it in the gallery that day! I could have growled but kept a happy face and will cash in on a lunch after the new year at the Guadalupe Cafe.

Just to add to the drama many roads were still snow packed and icey, and the house where I had to gather the work was an icey cold 40 degrees inside the house, my gas tank dropped suddenly to just above empty, and I was able to get to the gallery within 30 minutes of closing.

My morning had been wiped out by a friend possible needing to place a homeless woman in my house. I waited for a call from his co-worker caseworker, another case of mis-communication, fortunately I called the second guy who said that we could make an appointment for Wed or Thursday! The lady involved actually has a place until the end of the year, and it’d be the first 9 days of January she’d be staying as long as we all agree. In the same fashion, I had relunctantly agreed to do a dogsit, and then said some things had to be changed…long story short, after I did not return immediately home in order to save gas and so to make the stop at the house, when I did get home, the guy had left a message (not nice) that he had got someone else. I lost X-mas spirit called and left 2 double minus nice messages to him and we won’t be talking for awhile. My Christmas spirit had been smahed on the icy road splintering spasmodically in every direction.

I lost grace and slowly released the crazies: I don’t get so perturbed very easily. I also don’t have to put up with his verbal abuse for a long while now. Whilst I felt rage, Christmas songs kept playing through my head. I tucked myself under blanket and returned to rest and doing some of what I had planned. Christmas spirit rose again and peace returned to my heart. Bizarre huh! Feel free to comment.

Well, couldn’t find the videos I wanted. So, let return to the Christmas spirit: a few disruptions should create a cloudy forecast!

Course everyone else was drinking and I wasn’t, and though I enjoyed the contemporary music rap, hiphop, and some other stuff, I couldn’t dance very long. I’d say I felt that I was old but there were several other people near my age. Strange.

I went to a birthday party with some of best friends earlier for brunch, and almost had the same experience, except there I felt like the youngster and that the party was a bit sedate and dull. Rio Chama did a great job and we had great food. Several of us ordered lobster nachos, and though it looked sparse when delivered, there was enough lobster to be filling.
Here’s how it was presented. A round scoop of fresca salsa with a bit of habenaro, tomatoes, onion, green pepper in the center. Six or seven large tortilla chips with a small amount of black beans then lobster covered with cheddar cheese (white) and a sliver of green pepper on top. Tasty and filling. We also had calarmari with choice of three different sauces including a lemon aoila excellent, chips and guacamole with a red pepper, and also a chile sauce to compliment the chips and guacamole, and a spinach artichoke dip hot with cheese. The variety was excellent. That could have been sufficent, but as rare burst, 4 of us had dessert.
The coclate pie which came in a round bowl was decadently pleasing to my two friends. The raspberry mousse in a buttery light pastry with real raspberries was very enjoyable. I offered a friend some, “just one bite ” he said and he took the biggest bite, mostly of the mousse
that I ever saw. I had a little mousse left after it. Still it was a lot of sugar for me. Course I ate pie and fudge tonight at the party too.

Strange how I felt at both parties. Both made me feel welcomed, the second when I arrived everyone cheerd me in and were grateful that I showed. Literally a roaring welcome! It wasn’t them, it was me that wasn’t quite in sync. By the way: Rio Chama gets an 8 on my list. Very satisfying, good service, well prepared food. Rio Chama, Santa Fe Trail, down the street from the Capitol building.

Meanwhile, the big oil company who wasn’t going to ask much from our county now is applying for 5 wells. They no longer want to talk to the public, are meeting privately with county officials and are perhaps showing their true colors. Hopefully residents can still negotiate and perhaps the people will have some leverage. It’s ddep dark politics that may do disastrous things to our way of life plus create serious hazards for the environment and health. Also a downer for our traditional economies.

On the way home while listening to old blues music the setting moon seemed to grow biger and bigger. A clear starry night overall with a few clouds slightly voering the moon and giving the illusion of a full moon characterized a classic western winter sky.

Romance faded as I remembered the news report of contaminated wells near Los ALamos with the poisoness form of Chromium (R486) up to now more than 4X the safety levels. It helps create kidney and liver cancer. Now available in local drinking water free of charge! They mentioned a few other toxic substances too. Bought to you by LANL lab. Guess the actual nuke plants may create greater hazards. This is not being broadcast in the main media…hmmmm…I wonder why? Who’s in your back yard? If it’s happening here…it can happen about anywhere…

blogsville: www.astrologyexplored.com
countrymusicherald.com

Continued information about Santa Fe County
The mission of Drilling Santa Fe is to protect the cultural, environmental, and economic resources of Santa Fe County from the adverse impacts of oil and gas exploration and production within the County.Check out this information:

Contact Information
drillingsantafe@earthlink.net
Johnny Micou: 505-474-3061

Enter your email to subscribe
Enter and the oil companies.

http://drillingsantafe.blogspot.com/2007/10/upcoming-events_30.html

One of the major concerns about this scenerao re: oil exploration is that they may do underground explosions that can have negative effects on wells and water quality. Do all the research that you can to learn more about what happens to small communities when the OIL INDUSTRY comes to town.

While out doing a photo shoot this afternoon, I listened to KSFR. The Santa Fe Desert Chorale will start its Holiday performance schedule on 12/12/2007. They played a few pieces and they were fantastic. You can buy tickets at the Lensic. www.desertchorale.org

Winter Festival 2007
A
Merry New Mexico Christmas
Cathedral Basilica of St. Francis, 7:30pm,
December 14, 17, 18, 21
Cathedral Church of St. John, Albuquerque, 7:30pm, December 15
Cristo Rey Church, 5pm
December 16
Santa Maria de la Paz Catholic C