By Izzy Mora
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Under the warm glow of a Tuesday evening in El Paso, Texas, the local chapter of the LGBTQIA, Mortgage, and Realty ALLIANCE NETWORK hosted a captivating event featuring the renowned Cassandro, also known as Saul Armendariz.

Gathering together were a diverse group of networking professionals, forming a close-knit 'family' to honor the remarkable journey of Cassandro El Exotico, a true living legend in the world of wrestling and luchador culture.

Saúl Armendáriz, originally recognized as a 'homosexual amateur wrestler from El Paso, Texas,' transcended boundaries of fame with his creation of the persona Cassandro, earning him the title of the 'Liberace of Lucha Libre.' Through his personal triumphs and global acclaim, Cassandro not only challenged the conventions of the rugged wrestling scene but also reshaped the course of his own life.

Hosted by The Alliance Network, a non-profit organization dedicated to empowering the LGBTQ+ community on their journey towards empowerment, inclusion, and the joys of homeownership, the evening was filled with inspiration and celebration.

The Alliance Network tirelessly endeavors to enhance the professional lives of its members while equipping consumers with essential resources for every aspect of homeownership. As a leading advocate for LGBTQ+ rights in real estate and housing policy, The Alliance champions the diverse housing needs of LGBTQ+ individuals and communities, advocating, elevating, and celebrating their presence.

The venue for this memorable event was the newly opened Margin Notes Books, Coffee & Wine Bar, a vibrant community space offering a diverse selection of books ranging from banned classics to local treasures, catering to the tastes of every reader. Beyond its literary offerings, Margin Notes fosters connections among book lovers through engaging events and shared passions, offering unique gifts for readers and writers alike. Visitors are encouraged to experience El Paso's newest ally and indulge in expertly crafted beverages, including coffee, wine, and signature mocktails.

For more information on the Alliance Network and Margin Notes Booksellers please visit the coffee bar and see the links below:
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Margin Notes Booksellers
7460 Cimarron Market Bldg. 2 Ste. 300 
El Paso, TX 79911 
 (915) 219-7674
https://www.marginnotesbooksellers.com/
 
Real Estate Alliance 
https://realestatealliance.org/

Texas Gas Service
El Paso Electric
1 Stop Bail Bonds
Viva La Mocha
M Factor
El Paso Chamber Foundation
Planned Parenthood
Wet n Wild
Destination El Paso
Aurellia’s Bottle Shop and Brew House
Aaron And George’s Film Cafe
Express Records
L&F Distributors

Supporting small businesses that are owned by or welcoming to LGBTQ people is one way to show meaningful support to our community.  LGBTQ business owners contribute over $1.7 trillion to the U.S. economy every year, according to the National LGBT Chamber of Commerce, which represents around 1.4 million LGBTQ business owners.
   One of the best ways you can support LGBTQIA+-owned businesses is by spending money with businesses that have invested in our community. But it goes beyond money. If we want businesses to become advocates for the LGBTQ community, we should also become advocates for their businesses. One easy and free way to support ally businesses is to follow them on social media or sign up for their newsletter.  
   When it comes to building a successful LGBTQ community, businesses are vitally important. We all have choices where we spend our money and with whom we do business, make your queer dollar count!