THE HAVEN

Where can you buy a domestic beer for $3 and top-shelf whiskey at $5? Where can you attend some of the best political pachangas in Brownsville?

"The Haven!" answered "Delta" Dave Handelman. "It's a classy joint. There's no better description. It's hard to believe that an establishment of this caliber exists downtown. If you want a club specializing in quality drinks and entertainment, Haven is my heaven on earth."

Juan Kenigstein, well-educated and articulate, believes in starting his seventh decade with a bang. A product of Bolivia, the dapper proprietor completed a bachelor's in industrial engineering at the University of Texas in Arlington, a master's in guidance and counseling at University of Texas in Brownsville and a doctorate in thanatology at Beyer State University.

"Kenigstein, the owner of El Conquistador fabric store on East Washington, is billing The Haven as an alternative to noisy clubs and a platform for under-appreciated singers, musicians, bands, singers and dancers," wrote The Brownsville Herald.

"Downtown Brownsville for us is our little haven and we need to take care of it," explained the impeccably dressed Kenigstein who isn't sure the exact number of languages he speaks. "We want to improve downtown. We want people to come and shop and entertain themselves.

"People need to recognize the beauty downtown possesses. Our own people don't comprehend the treasure we possess. Historically, we are one of the great cities of Texas with much of our architecture preserved. What McAllen and Harlingen would give for our gifts, yet with their limited attractions, they have committed themselves to restoring their old towns.

"I love Brownsville. It's our city and we have a multi-faceted community. I want downtown to grow. We deserve better than what we have. We need to help each other in order for all of us to succeed.

"I don't believe that the other clubs operating or planning to open as competitors," said Kenigstein. "On the contrary. We are part of a brotherhood. If another club owner needs something and we can supply it, we're happy to help."